# First Visit to London explained — The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

> Chapter companion for The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin by Benjamin Franklin.

## What happens

Franklin recounts his first stay in London, working as a compositor, writing a metaphysical pamphlet, befriending booksellers and intellectuals, and experiencing a falling out with James Ralph over a woman. He describes his frugal habits, his influence among fellow printers, and his growing network of acquaintances.

## Themes in this chapter

### Industry and Frugality

Franklin works hard, drinks only water, saves money by avoiding beer, and advocates for cheaper, healthier breakfasts among his fellow printers.

### Self-Improvement and Moral Perfection

Franklin reflects on his 'errata'—the pamphlet on liberty and necessity and his attempted familiarities with Mrs. T—showing his ongoing moral self-examination.

## Character check-ins

### Benjamin Franklin

Works as a compositor and pressman in London, writes a pamphlet on liberty and necessity, and forms intellectual acquaintances.

### James Ralph

Franklin's friend who assumes Franklin's name to work as a schoolmaster, borrows money, and later breaks off friendship after a personal betrayal.

### Hans Sloane

Sir Hans Sloane visits Franklin to see his asbestos purse and purchases it for his collection.

### Samuel Keimer

Not directly mentioned in this chapter.

## Key lines

> I drank only water; the other workmen, near fifty in number, were great guzzlers of beer.

Franklin abstained from beer while his coworkers drank heavily.

_Highlights Franklin's frugality and self-discipline in contrast to the prevailing drinking culture._

> I attempted familiarities (another erratum) which she repulsed with a proper resentment, and acquainted him with my behaviour.

Franklin made unwanted advances toward Mrs. T, which she rejected and reported to Ralph, causing a rift.

_Franklin acknowledges this as a moral mistake, part of his pattern of self-criticism._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/franklin_autobiography_se/chapters/vi-first-visit-to-london
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/franklin_autobiography_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/franklin_autobiography_se/chapters