12. On the 17th of April, 1790, about eleven o'clock at night, Dr. Franklin quietly expired. He had reached an honored and a happy old age. From small beginnings, by a uniform course of prudence and honesty, he had raised himself to high station, wealth and distinction. 13. In considering the character of Franklin, we perceive that the most marked trait was his habit of economy. By economy we do not mean merely care in gaining and keeping of his money. We mean care of time, of labor; frugality, industry, system, method in all his business. To this we may add economy of his health; avoiding all excess and unnecessary exposure. 14. His cheerfulness and good nature were also remarkable. He was ever happy and entertaining. His anecdotes and jests were always to the point, and his manner of conversing and writing was at once pleasing and effective. 15. For his public services his country owes him her respect and gratitude; while his philosophical discoveries have excited the admiration of the world. His name will live with the names of the few great men who have conferred enduring benefits on mankind. The following epitaph on himself was written by him many years previous to his death: The Body of BENJAMIN FRANKLIN, Printer, [like the cover of an old book, its contents torn out, and stript of its lettering and gilding,] lies here food for worms; yet the work itself shall not be lost, for it will (as he believed) appear once more in a new and more beautiful edition, corrected and amended by THE AUTHOR. * * * * * 1. How did Franklin lose his seat in the assembly? 2. What appointment did he immediately receive? 3. How did the opposition to his reappointment affect him? 4. What was his reception in England? What countries did he visit in 1766? In 1767? 5. What were Franklin's efforts to bring about a reconciliation between Great Britain and the provinces? 6. What appointment did he receive on his return? What committee was chosen to visit the camp at Cambridge? 7. With what powers was Lord Howe invested? Who were appointed to wait on him? 8. Of what convention was Franklin the president in 1776? To what office was he appointed? 9. How was he esteemed in France? How were his political negotiations? 10. When did Franklin return to Philadelphia? What honor was immediately conferred on him? 11. When did he retire from public office? On what account? 12. When did Dr. Franklin die? 13. What was the marked trait in Franklin's character? 14. What other traits were conspicuous? ESSAYS OF DR. FRANKLIN