Benjamin was anxious that his father should read this correspondence,
as he would be a good judge of its quality; and, after a little, he
took it to him, saying: "John and I have had some correspondence, and
I want you should read our letters."
There is little question that Benjamin was so well satisfied with his
own argument that he expected his father would give him much credit.
Perhaps his father believed, with most men of that day, that the
education of females was an unnecessary expense, and Benjamin expected
to convert him to his belief. Whether it was so or not, his father
replied:
"I should like to read it; what is it about?"
"You will find out when you read the letters."
Mr. Franklin improved the first opportunity to read the
correspondence, and report to Benjamin.
"I have been very much pleased and profited by this correspondence. It
is able for two boys like you and John; but I think John has the
advantage of you."
"John the advantage!" exclaimed Benjamin, with considerable surprise
and anxiety. "How so?"
"In some respects, not in all, I mean," added his father.
"Tell me of one thing in which he has advantage," and Benjamin
manifested disappointment when he made the request.
"Well, John's style of composition seems to me more finished, and he
expresses himself with more clearness."
"I rather think you are prejudiced, father" Benjamin said this for the
want of something better to say.
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