Notes

In this section, Franklin's long-term dream finally comes true, for he starts his own printing business in association with Hugh Meredith. Every indication is that the business should be quite successful. Franklin is well known in Philadelphia as an honorable man with strict morals and proper conduct. He is also known to be a very knowledgeable printer, which is why Keimer comes back and asks him to work with him again. Finally, before they are officially opened, Franklin receives his first paying customer. The five shillings earned on this first job foreshadow the later success of the business and delights Franklin.

It is important to note that Benjamin Franklin endures many disappointments in this section, and throughout his life. Upon his return to Philadelphia, he learns that Miss Read has married and that Governor Keith is no longer in office and will not be able to help him in his business efforts. More importantly, Denham, his close friend and supposed business partner, dies shortly after they return from London. Franklin does not let any of these problems depress him; instead, he handles the problems one by one and works hard as a means to forget some of his troubles.

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