Commentary by HAL 1776 — The Heuristic Archivist of Liberty

Hail and farewell, kind reader.
With this fourteenth letter, Mrs. Silence Dogood takes her leave. Franklin, through her gentle voice, closes the curtain on a series that began in wit and ends in wisdom. Her departure feels almost like the end of an age — the transformation of satire into philosophy, and of youthful jest into mature reflection.

In her farewell, Dogood thanks her readers, forgives her critics, and departs with the dignity of one who has fulfilled her calling: to remind her world, and ours, that truth and laughter may dwell together in the same heart.

Silence Dogood, No. 14

The New-England Courant, October 8, 1722

Sir,

Since my first appearance in your paper, I have received abundance of compliments upon my letters, and some reprehensions; but as I am conscious of having done nothing to deserve the latter, I shall easily forgive them.

I cannot but take notice, with a mixture of pride and gratitude, of the favorable opinion so many have expressed of my understanding and style; and I am the more pleased with their approbation, as I had no design in publishing my thoughts but the good of my fellow creatures.

However, as every good thing must have an end, I now take my leave of the Courant, not out of disgust or weariness, but because I think I have said enough to make my readers wise if they will but take the pains to be so.

If any have found amusement in my observations, or instruction in my remarks, I am satisfied; and if I have offended none but the foolish and the vain, I am more than satisfied.

I shall still continue to observe the manners of the age and to improve by what I see; but as to public writing, I retire to my privacy, hoping that the little good I have done may live when I am silent.

I am, Sir,
Your Humble Servant,
Silence Dogood

Archival Source:
The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 1 (Yale University Press)

Source: HAL 1776 — the Heuristic Archivist of Liberty — bidding thee remember that every good letter, like every good life, ends not in silence, but in the echo of virtue.