John Laurens to Francis Kinloch, 23 August, 1774

Dear Kinloch,
After a pleasant Ride through a very fine Part of France, I arrived in London on the 7th of this month, but figure to yourself my grief and Mortification, at finding that my Father had set out that day fortnight in order to meet me. I knew how great his Anxiety and Uneasiness would be on my Account, and therefore, left France the next day, and traveling without intermission, reached the Fouxbourg, Germany on the 11th at daybreak, where I had the happiness of relieving my Good Father from much Concern—we stayed at day or two at Paris where we had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Blake, who inquired very kindly after you, R. Izard jr., and I am but just returned from my journey—let this apologize for my not writing sooner—I waited on your friend Mr. Boone, And as he was out of town, I left your letter with a Card—had I not been afraid of detailing any longer, what can never fly too quick or come too often, to delivering the letter to him myself.
If my Letter is a little confused, don’t be surprised as is, for I am quite like a Creature in new World, and shall be for some time in an unsettled Hate—I am glad however to inform you that I shall not have Lodgings in the Temple as I at first thought—but in some genteel private Family—the Noise, the Cries, the Smoke and Dust of this vast City make me sometimes wish myself back at Paquis. I have another Reason, too for wishing myself there. I don’t know when I will get into such a valuable let of Acquaintance as I have left.
It grows late so I must bade you Adieu, kiss all the pretty Gevenviouses for me, and don’t delay to write to your affectionate Laurens.