Friend" Thomson on 29 December, 1788, after his return home, upon the subject of his own public services which he deemed and with justice had not met with that recognition which they merited. No one but he at that day could weigh with accuracy the sum of those services as well as he, but later history has realised what was done by him in those weary and anxious years when for his country's sake he was exiled from the comforts of his home.
My good friend, excuse, if you can, the trouble of this Letter; and if the reproach thrown on Republicks, that they are apt to be ungrateful, should ever unfortunately be verified with respect to your services, remember that you have the right to unbosom yourself in communicating your griefs to your affectionate ancient friend and most obed. humble servant, B. Franklin.[1]
Charles Thomson employed his later years in a translation of the entire Bible, an excellent contribution to Biblical literature; this was printed in four volumes in Philadelphia in 1808. His own copy of this admirable version with his latest MS. corrections is in the Philadelphia Library. He lived to the age of 94, dying 16 August, 1824. His is one of the most interesting characters figuring in Revolutionary scenes, and is worthy of study by every young man. At the treaty with the Indians at Easton in 1757, they named him in their language "The Man of Truth," which clung to him always; and upon doubtful tidings and uncertain rumors prevailing, his friends would say of him "Here comes the truth: here is Charles Thomson!" Thomson married secondly in 1774 Hannah Harrison a niece of Isaac Norris, the Speaker, for many years a Trustee of the College and Academy. He was called to the Secretaryship of Congress the day after his wedding; his notes of its proceedings were taken in short hand, and on his return home from Philadelphia in the evening to Harriton it was this faithful wife who wrote out from them the Minutes of Congress.
- ↑ Bigelow, x. 29. N. Y. Historical Society's Collections, 1878, p. 248.
