Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to John Quincy Adams, 5 February 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, John Quincy

My Dear Son
Quincy Febry 5th 1814

I was most unfortnate in not hearing, untill two Days before the Cartel from N york sailed, that there was one orderd by Goverment to take Mr Strong the consul to Sweeden, as a Special messenger. he was first to proceed to England with his dispatches for the Brtish Minister; and then immediatly to St Petersburgh. I sent my Letters to go by him, to John Smith at N york; one half hour before the post, arrived. the cartel Sailed and my Letters remain. I gave Letters, last Summer to Mr Wire appointed Consul at Reiga. he Saild, in about three weeks returnd to Boston, having been captured. what became of my Letters I have never known—about a month since, Mr Ingraham, whom you well know; was charged with many Letters for you; he also Saild and was last week returnd to N york, having been taken out of a cartel bound to England. not having obtaind permission of the President, he still has the Letter. I check myself when I feel disposed to complain that I have not Letters from you. the communication is worse than ever, which makes me lament the loss of one which would have been direct. The last Letter which I have received from you, was dated the 19th of July, and this I have already acknowledgd. The Neptune has not yet arrived. Concequenly Goverment are without communications from their Ministers. mr Gibson retaind his private Letters, but the Captain would not consent to his bringing the public Dispatches
Mr Clay, the late Speaker of the House & Mr Russel will be the Bearer of this Letter, and those which were designd for mr Strong—they will carry to you all the intelligence respecting the affairs of our Nation, which may be necessary for you to know and that with more accuracy than I can relate them: the appointment of Mr Clay in leiu of Mr Gallatin—is not a more popular measure with a certain Set in this quarter, than that of Mr Gallatin, and the uniting Mr Russel in the commission, is said by the Cavaliers, designd to defeat the whole negotiation, which I have not a doubt many wish for.
I will quote to you the Sage advise of Age and experience, from a Letter this day received by your Father from Gro’r McKean, who has of late exchanged several interesting Letters with him, upon the most friendly terms.
“A Glimmering of peace appears in the Horizon. may it be realized: by every preperation Should be made for a continuance of the war. when the British Arms have been Successfull, I have never found their Rulers, or Ministers, otherways, than haughty, rude, imperious, Nay insolent; they and their Allies have this year, been successfull, both in the North and South of Europe.”
our Nation is So elated with the prospect of Peace; that it is to be feared, that our Government will find it difficult to obtain Such  resources for carrying on the war, as they ought to posses, in order to bring it to a Speedy termination.
The Embargo, always an unpopular measure, comeing with all its deprivations at the Same time that heavey taxes are assessd, together with the—No campaign in Canady! so much relied upon, is Such a trial of the patience forbearence and Submission of the people, as will put all their virtues to the test, whilst the pens  of the Anti americans are employd in revileing our Rulers and endeavouring to create discontent, and murmurings amongst the people. they cannot yet work them up to their minds. Strict as the Embargo is, there are Some who will elude it. We are not without Henryites, and if ever Boston was the Head quarters of good principles, it has forfeited them by their opposition to the Goverment, and to the war.
I fully believe that our own goverment meet the British Government, with the most upright views, and honorable motives, that they will not make any claims beyond those which are indispensible to the support of our independence; and the rights which appertain to it.—may the British Government possess the same dissposition—but enough of this topic—
Your Sons are well. they came on fryday to make us a visit, and returnd on monday. George is deeply engaged in French. and Evening School is opend in Hingham by mr Mcdonald, son to the formerBritish Consul. this school George attends, and as he never before Studied French gramatically, he finds the benifit of it, is reading don Quixot, much to his entertainment. few Boys at 14 or 15 are larger than George at 12 & half. John begins to grow fast. his Preceptor says he is a good Latin Scholor. his mind is not So Stored with english literature as Georges was at his Age. George wants a method in his reading to render it as usefull to him, as it might be. but now like the Bee, he flies from Sweet to Sweet, always however collecting some Honey which he brings home to his Hive. he delights his Grandfather when he is at home by his readiness to find whatever Book he wants in the Liberary, and he will Sit down like an old man, to hold a conversation upon Books for an hour together. he improves Some in his hand writing, but in this Branch of his Education, he has been so deficient that he has had an aversion to Letter writing, and concequently makes no figure in it. I have conversed with him upon the Subject and he informs me that Saturday afternoon is in future, to be appropriated to composition. I will not, I cannot Say, how much your Sons lose by your absence from them. may it not be protracted beyond the present year, time which brings them forward, is hastning with rapid Steps towards the dissolution of your Parents; in one of your Fathers late Letters, he informd You that I had been Severely sick with a Lung fever. it confined me Six weeks and to this hour, I am but feebly recovering. my Health is not worse than before the fever—and my cough is gone, but I am more tender and liable to attacks of a Similar kind. I had but just left my Chamber, before your Father was taken Sick with a Similar complaint upon his Lungs—he has been confined for a fortnight: more Sick than I have known him since he had the Ague, and fever; he had never taken an Emetic from that day, untill the present, more than 20 years.
If he is able, he will write you a few Lines, but he has been obliged to put by his Book and his pen. I think him out of danger, altho he is weak and his cough Still continues.
My best Love to mrs Adams and to Charles, of whose improvements I hear with pleasure.
Altho So many Letters have miscaried, some one has met your Eye and wounded your Heart ever this for the loss of your Dear and only Sister—She is Saved from many pains which had She lived, might be prepared for her in the Bosom of futurity
“O Blindness to the future kindly given”—  ever your affectionate Mother
A A


Title: From Thomas Boylston Adams to John Quincy Adams, 9 February 1814
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Adams, John Quincy

No 32/23.
Quincy February 9th: 1814.

Having in my Letters of the 3d and 6th: instant given you a detail of the state of your private concerns, under my care, accompanied by my account current to the close of the last year, I am solicitous to make some return for your many favours, from which we have occasionally gathered the earliest intelligence of events, most interesting to our own Country. The overture made in behalf of the Emperor Alexander to mediate between the United States and Great Britain, was a subject of so much moment and so powerfully operated upon the publick mind that the fact itself, even when officially announced by the President, was stoutly denied in our publick papers, and it was most unblushingly asserted, by many, that it was altogether an unauthorized step of the Russian Minister here.  Some of your letters had given me intimations from which I drew an exactly opposite inference, and, indeed, without any such, I could have relied, with undoubting confidence, that the proposition would not have been made, without a communication with you and a simultaneous offer to the British Cabinet, through their Ambassador. But the old Epistolary of Essex, in a new series, addressed to the people, undertook to inform them, that it was all a jugglery, to be played off, by the Administration, for their amusement and to avert their attention to the disasters of this unjust and iniquitous war. He even went so far as to quote from rumour a passage in your letter to me, which I had shown to our friend J Hall, and which he had quoted at one of the Insurance Offices to substantiate the fact, that the English Government were made acquainted with the offer of the Emperor.  Timothy would not seem to believe in it, and still wrote and wrote till he was tired, because scarcely any body had patience to read his letters. Since the call of Congress for the correspondence, and the publication of it, every one asks, what will Timothy say now? However just and unavoidable the war may have been, at the commencement of it, the declaration in form having come from our Government, all the responsibility of the measure has attached to the Administration, and the construction that has prevailed in most of the N England States as to the powers of the general government to call out the Militia, has operated as a dead weight in the scale of the contest. But notwithstanding the discouragement to the recruiting service which such conductstruction was calculated to produce, the voluntary enlistments for the regular army have been numerous throughout the N England States, and the failure of the last campaign is to be ascribed more to the inability of those in command than to the want of numbers in the ranks. Genl Hampton has resigned his Commission, but Wilkinson remains. He is now with his Army, having recovered his health, and it is reported that some movements have been made since he joined the Encampment at French Mills.  A new army is to be raised with increased bounty to serve for six years or during the war. But on the eve of the meeting of Congress a proposition comes by Cartel from England to treat of peace, not under the mediation of Russia, but to meet Commissioners either at London or Gottenburg at the election of our government. This offer was promptly accepted by the President and four Commissioners were immediately appointed to repair to Gottenburg, the place selected for the conferences to take place between the two Countries. Two of these Commissioners it is presumed will embark without delay, and indeed I am apprehensive that they may have sailed from New York before my letter can reach them. In the meantime news has reached us from the Continent of Europe of the splendid victories of the Allied armies, and the total route of the French; the defection of her Allies, and the consequent retreat of the french troops in all quarters where it was yet left them to make an escape.  The fate of Europe is said to have been decided by the battle before the walls of Leipsick and the taking of that fortress is pronounced the finishing blow to the hopes and prospects of the Emperor of France. Within a day or two, by an arrival at Boston directly from England in a passage of 42 days, the news of the Counter Revolution in Holland and Switzerland with some of the details has reached us; the same vessel also brings the proposition of the Emperors of Russia & Austria and the King of Prussia to make peace with France, to which the Emperor has acceeded, though the pleasure of England on this subject was not ascertained. Her displeasure is affirmed with great confidence and Lord Castlereah had gone to the Continent to be present at the Congress at Manheim. Such is the substance of our latest news, and the current of thought seems to have experienced a momentary stagnation.  A succession of events so important in themselves and so big with futurity presages a new political æra in the world; the wheel has turned and the mighty kingdoms which have arisen during its first revolution are descending with velocity into their original insignificant principalities.
Flushed with these unexpected prospects and ascribing all the glory to herself England will surely not forget her natural instinct to triumph and trample upon the fallen. She will not unite with her continental allies in a peace, and how can they separate their cause from hers, still retaining her friendship? These are only my own reflections, and I hope they may prove erroneous; but the English newspapers boast that the Government of that Country has never recognized the Usurper of France by any publick act and aver that they never will.
I can imagine that you have a stronger desire to learn what we are doing here than upon the theater where you are; and you can scarcely have better informants than your associates who are about to join you. The temper of the people in this section of the Union is unhappily soured toward the general government, as much by artificial means as by actual privations. With other men and other Counsellors at the helm of this State the voice and the arm of her majesty would be heard & felt to some good effect and the Republicans have already resolved to try the experiment of political redemption by supporting at the approaching election for Governor, Samuel Dexter Esqr and Wm Gray as Lieutenant. The nomination of these gentlemen is not yet made publick, and perhaps something may occur to produce a different list of candidates, but the ticket already mentioned has had the sanction of a large majority of the members of the Legislature, on the Republican side.
The Session of the Genl Court has hitherto been peaceable though the speech and answers are pretty well seasoned. Memorials from sundry towns praying legislative aid against the oppression of the embargo and other measures of the general Government, have been read and committed and more are daily crowding in. The year 1809-10 is acted over again in many respects, but there is a show of more moderation in the leading-men than was exhibited that year. They know how they overshot the publick sentiment then and they still feel the smart of a two years loss of power in consequence of their rashness.  The warm men who come out of the hot beds of Anglo-federalism will blaze and flash for a while, but they will be kept in check by the less ardent and less daring of their party. It has been the fashion to undo most of the publick acts of Mr Gerry’s last year; to restore all who were removed from office and to remove some in turn; all of which has been atchieved without a sigh or a murmur being heard from the incumbents or their political friends, affording a striking contrast between the loud bellowings, terrifick shrieks and heart rending sighs of their adversaries, when the arm of power shook them from their seats. The federal creed has been pretty uniform on the subject of holding offices of trust and emolument; viz—“We made the federal Constitution for ourselves and you opposed it; what right have you to reap any benefit from it; we want the whole for ourselves and you never shall have any if we can help it.” This has been practical federalism and in a little while I expect to be able to speak more experimentally.
With every affectionate sentiment toward you and your’s / I am, &ca.


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody, 10 February 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw

My dear Sister
Quincy Febry 10th 1814

with the middle finger of my right hand bound up with a , which you know is very soar, I attempt to write you a few lines. altho they will be a detail of sickness and sufferings. For a fortnight past, my best Friend has been confined to his Chamber, a circumstance which has not taken place before for more than twenty years. he took a violent cold at the commencement of Sleighing, by going into Boston, and then walking upon the Snow. a voilent cough stayd upon his Lungs and a fever was threatned, an Emetic and other medicine, have been blessd to his recovery, so far as to almost remove the cough and restore him again to his usual health. altho time must be given to recover strength, which cannot long be looked for, in us, who have nearly measured the span of Life.
On Sunday weeke, being a very pleasant day your son came out, and past the day with us; we were much rejoiced to see him, and to find him as comfortable as he was, a suffererer he is; and always must be, which affords but poor consolation to Life. I wish he had more leisure to muse himself and a kind companion to aid him.I got down stairs and dinned with him that day and rode out in a close Sleigh since which day I have been confined. I was suddenly taken in the coming a few days after with a sick Stomach and began about nine in the Evening to puke. it continued untill six in the morning by intervals, and weakened me much—
I am now distresst with a rheumatick affection under my left Ribs, and upon my Hip bone. it is attended with much soarness and pain. I have had it flying over me ever me in different parts of my Body ever since I was first sick. patience and Submission, humility and gratitude; are virtues which I must put in Requisition. I hope I shall not be found wanting.
I do not feel well enough to enter into a political Argument with your household, I will however inclose them a news paper and doubt not they will have candour enough to read the debates, altho not their own creed. I would also recommend to them mr Holmes’s and mr Fullers Speeches in our own Senate.
If worth is what they seek, it cannot be so well exemplifid as by reading both Sides of a Question, and then judging for themselves—I wish we may never has as president a Man of more turbulent passions, more ambitious views, or more Selfish projects, than the one who now presides— may his Success have the honor and interests of the country as much at Heart, and we shall have no essential rights sacrificed. I believe mr Madison to be what Pope called the noblest work of God, an honest Man
Yesterday altho I could not go below stairs I had mr and mrs Harrod & my Son and daughter to dine with us—Mrs Adams has recoverd her health altho she is not yet quite healed—and my Boy whom I weaned is nicely having cut one tooth, mrs  J Greenleaf whom you inquire after & Lucy were here this week—and are very well. the dr and mrs Welch & miss Baily made me a visit on Monday with her Lively little nut brown Maid. she is a lovely Babe and mrs Baily looks as happy, as every woman ought, who has a kind good husband and no perplexing cares to vex them—poor Leonard White, what a sad thing for a man to have a Nantipa? who could have thought that the mild d. d. n should become a vixen?
You and I my dear Sister have gone through a long Life— with as few Rubs of a matrional nature as falls to the Lot of Humanity. I do not pretend to claim the flick, for I have some times insisted upon my own way and my own opinion, and some times yealded Silently!
You know all this, who is always in the right? Yet after half a century, I can Say my first choice would be the same if I again had youth, and opportunity to make it—tell my dear Neice to look out well. the die once cast, there is no retreat, untill death.
How do you think the dr has Served me, made me Rub my side and hip with camphorated spirit and tincture of flies, untill I can Scarcely move—so what with one, and the other I am finely done over.
Caroline is gone to Boston to ordination, and from thence is going to make a visit to mrs Guile at Newton. She was loth to leave me, but so much Sickness as we have had requires some relaxation.
Adieu my dear sister you see I am not in the lowest spirits tho free of pain.Your sister most / tenderly


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody, 14 February 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw

My Dear Sister
Quincy Febry. 14th 1814

I received this morning your Letter of the 10th and I have the pleasure to inclose to you a Quarters Rent which I received from mr Foster yesterday. I have Sent two Receits which I wish you to Sign, and return to me. when I Sent the last, there Should have been 50 cents more, but I did not love to put Silver with the paper least in conveying by mail, the paper would be injured. I now Send 38 dollars—You know that you did write me a receit at the bottom of a Letter, but I Should prefer having it Seperate, and I have coppied from that, only inserting the 50 cents
when you mentiond in your Letter Some time Since, some dissagreable circumstances which had occured to give you pain, I did not then know from what Source they arose
I am really grieved that mr Peabody, whose benevolence and generosity have been So active for the encouragement of Learning, and literature, Should be So unreasonably harrassd. his zeal caused him beyond the bounds of prudence, but felt engaged in a laudible pursuit, and has done more than his share, most certainly. I am rejoiced both for you, and for him that it is in hands now, that will not distress him—
My  Neibour  Neighbor and acquaintance are put into outer darkness. Mrs Beal died on Sunday about 5 oclock. She has been long in a consumption, but her lively Spirits kept her along and She has not been confined to her Bed but two days—a Great loss to her Fatherless Grandchildren and to the circle of her acquaintance and a warning voice to her Aged companions to be also ready. in Replie to your inquiries respecting mrs Adams—I answer that I had a Letter from her last week that She writes in Spirits and Says She was well. I also had a few lines from Abbe—I do not expect their return here in the Spring. Mrs Adams will not leave her Sister, nor Abbe their her Mother. I should think it Strange if they did!
I have not any Letters from my son nor do I give any credit to the reports of what he is Said to have written to Mr Beasley, who is American Agent in England. passengers Say So and So. Mr Adams writes not upon Slight grounds. his words are weighd, every line he well knows, will be sifted. what he writes he can justify—but of all the vileness of falsehood, lies fabricated only to injure the Nation, and deceive them. our federal papers are the most detestable! they are a crying abomination of our Land
did not Col Pickering write 14 or 15 Letters to convince the people of the United States, the Mediation of Russia was never made by the Empeur: he roundly asserted it, at the Same time I had the facts to the contary under the Hand of mr Adams, and the Letters now publishd show what reliance is to be put upon Col Pickerings Authority
If insurections are excited in our State It to they will arrise, not from the pressure of public calamity, but from turbulent Spirits. as yet I do not beleive, with all the false excitements, that our people are ripe for Blood Rebelion and treason—woe, woe to him who Strikes the first blow: and lets lose the dogs of civil war
you will find our Peace Makers however Successfull they may be, will not escape censure—there are those in our own State, who dread Peace; who are the most clamorous for it but who would rather the Administration Should sink than that they Should make peace. this is a bad picture of Man, but Such there are every where to be found. the people complain of what was  really  a hardship; that their coasting vessels were detaind by the Embargo, and that they were obliged to get home by land as they could.  it is impossible in passing a Law of that nature, not to press hard upon individuals. the representives in Congress state this, and offer Some Resolutions for the releif of the Sufferers, and when they find the Bill is like to Succeed, these very people turn about and vote agaisnt the Bill, and give for a reason that they do not want a partial repeal of the Embargo
I presume you will not See the excellent speech of mr Holmes in Senate, unless I Send it you. It is that which dropt poor mr Q——y —good benevolent Friendly Man, he Shines more  Quincy Nursing  Mireno’s than in the turbulent Sea of politicks—he has not Nerves for such contention
Quincy Febry 16th
Yesterday my Neighbour Mrs Beal was consigned to the Tomb —and this day our Friends at Hingham are weeping over the lovely Remains of Lucy Cushing, who died on  Monday in a consumption She has had for the last three months a rapid decline, but was never confind to her chamber untill 3 days before her Death. having been So long Sick myself I was not informd of her danger, untill last week when Susan returnd from there where She went for a ride in  a Sleigh—She was much Struck with her appearance and Said when She returnd, that She did not think She could live a week
I feel for our Cousins to whom She was as a Child, to her they had by will left all their property. thus fall the young the Aged; and all Ranks Nations and kindred bow to the great leveller—who can refrain from this inquiry? where goes the unembodied Spirit?
Adieu my dear Sister may we meet in a happier world and be permitted to recognize each other. will not that be all of the joys of the Blessed—ever your affectionate / Sister

A AdamsI write very careless— pray destroy these rough unpolishd Letters—


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Mercy Otis Warren, 21 February 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Warren, Mercy Otis

My Dear Madam
Quincy Feb’ry 21 1814

I have been for near two months confined to my chamber, and much of that time unable to write or read or my pen would not have been So long dorment. when I had but partially recoverd, my best Friend was taken Sick with  a Similar complaint of the Lungs and fever, which has so affected his Eyes that, as yet he can only write a few lines at a time, and those with pain
th my dear Madam join our Sympans family, in the afflictive dispensation which has deprived them, of an amiable and promising child
You and I my Friend, have repeatedly tasted the bitter cup, and to us are known all the pangs which rend a Parents Heart.
But thanks to our Heavenly Father who directs and  permits us, to Cast all our burdens before him; and assures us of Support and consolation—
“This Softens and refines the Soul for Heaven”
May your Dear Children find that it is good for them to be afflicted, neitherto they have been greatly distinguishd that out of nine, not one has been wanting.
we are but of the Dust, one part, one little part we dimly sean. “Nor dare we to arraign the whole Stupendious plan”
the world which we are just about to quit, opens upon us Such Scenes, as astonish and amaze us. we must leave to our ospring the further unfolding of the Drama.
I am too feeble to enlarge upon Subjects, which would require a vol’m. with an Eye of Faith we must look through this Sublinary State, and “trust the Ruler of the Skies” in full assurance that it is only a part we See, and not the whole
Be assured Dear Madam of / the Friendship and attachment / of
Abigail Adams


Title: To John Adams from William Stephens Smith, 21 February 1814
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Washington City Monday Feby 21st. 1814

This day’s Post brings a communication from Abbey under date of the 13th. from a Gentleman of very high standing of from which the following is an extract—
“General Hulls trial will be terminated in a few day’s, the evidence on the part of the prosecution have closed, The Unfortunate Old man, will have but a slender Defence, the Court must I think sentence him to be shot, the state of the Army requires it, I do from my soul pitty him, Could the punishment be inflicted on Madison for the infamous appointment an act of Justice would be done to the Country”—
my heart melts at this melencholy picture I wish to Heaven, Hull had taken my early advice and profitted by the opinion I gave, that if he pursued his proposed plan of invasion, with the means he said was fully competent, and under the guidance of so imbecile an administration, on every war question that in my opinion he was a lost and ruined man
This opinion having also been given by me to you and my friends at Medford, we can only now join in mourning and lamenting his fate—
Yours affectionately
W. S. Smith


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to François Adriaan Van der Kemp, 23 February 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan

Dear Sir
Febry. 23 1814 Quincy

A long and Severe fit of Sickness must plead my excuse for so long delaying the acknowledment of Mr vander Kemps very polite and flattering Letter, in which he has estimated the little civilitis due shone to him, not as a homage due to his Character and worth, so conspicuous to every intelligent mind, but as acts of Superoragation— the only regret I feel is that I fear I Shall never have an other opportunity of personally assureing you of my increased respect and attachment.
I have Sir rejoiced with you and enterd warmly into your feelings upon the restoration of the Ancient Goverment of your Native country, and wish that it may prove an exception to an observation, which I think I heard from your Lips, “that no Country twice Regaind their Liberties”
How will the change from Republican to Monarchical affect them? Sir William Temple Says it was proposed to King William 3d to become Sovereign Duke of the Netherlands in which advice  the Grand Pensionary Fagel concured, but that William refused the proffer’d dignity—Saying that he had a great ambition to grow great by the Service, not by the Servitude of his country, “if he accepted the title he Should be Sovereign of a mean State, instead of Stadtholder of a Great Republic” Since that period Bonaparty has had such a slight at dethroneing Kings and creating them, that Royalty has become cheep, but what have I to do with are not the politicks of the world at this day beyond calculation or prophecy?
amidst the turbulence of the waves if America can stear her Bark Safely into the port of Peace between  Sylla & Charybdis—will you not Hail her as one of the fortunate of the Earth? true She has on Board Some turbulent and headstrong Sailors and Some appizcing and Ambitious passengers, but as yet they have not broken through the restraints of Law, nor openly Set at naught the Government. they have however gone So far in this my dear & Native State that  a great effort will be made at our approaching State Election, to change Hands and bring in mr Dexter as Govr and mr Grey as Leiutt, this nomination of the Republicans, has awed their opponents. they know and bow with Respect to the talents virtue and integrity of the and I may add wealth of the candidates
I would ask an excuse for thus treading upon ground which Ssome Suppose exclusively belongs to your Sex—but are we not Bone of your Bone & flesh of your flesh and what must that heart be which at Such a period as the present can with a youthfull Progeny rising up to Share in the future destiny of their Country—can be an indifferent Spectator as to its fate?
I regret to learn from your Letters that you too, have been visited with Sickness—my best and beloved Friend has been more Sick, and longer confined than I have ever before known him. his Eyes have shared largely in the debility and weakness which it has occasiond. I flatter hope myself however that  the air and excercise will restore him when he can take it—but we both of us know that our time is Short. I flatter hope that when we get beyond this “congeragated Ball, Self centerd Sun and Stars that rise and fall,” we Shall be introduced into a higher Class of Beings and improve in knowledge and  virtue to an endless duration—
Be assurd my dear Sir that I took no exception to your expression of Surprize at the vast change time had wrought upon the face of your Friend, my faithfull Mirrur had told me the Same serrious truth long before
“yet at the darkne’d Eye, the wither’d face
or hoary hair, I never will repine:
But Spair o Time, what’er of mental grace
of candour, love, or Sympathy divine,
what’er of fancy’s ray, or Friendship’s flame is mine.”
I have a sister a few years younger than myself, the Mother of mr Shaw worthy of such a Son—Since my Sickness I had been writing to her, and saying how much my glass told me I had fallen away. She has also been sick with a similar fever, and in replie to my Letter, She Says
“I recollected your reflections upon your Glass my Sister, and was about making an amicable Truce with mine, But rising from my writing table to replace a paper, Such a pale meagre vissage Startled up to my view as put all my courage and resignation to the test—humilating, faithfull Mirror I will forgive thee though thou present the Striking Emblem of yellow Atumn & the falling leaf—yes I will forgive thee—For thou discernest not, nor canst reflect the virtues of the heart that tho the Lusture of the Eye, and the vivid beauties of the illumind face are Shut down witherd and decayed, thou discernest not the Faith & Hope that invigorates the Soul—that as we approximate nearer & nearer to the Source of Excellence we may find our graces increasing with added Years untill we Bloom with celestial lusture Brighter & Brighter unto the perfeect Day.
I write to you with the freedom of an old correspondent, and as a member of the Same family; and altho I am no dealer in Greek Latin or Hebrew, I ask no other Language than my Native Tongue to assure you of my the invariable Respect / Friendship and attachment / of
Abigail AdamsI hear our much esteemed Friend mrs Quincy has been very Sick with a Rheumatic complaint in her head mr vanderkemp has a warm and  Respectfull Friend in that Lady I heard from you the other day from Smith Valley by way of my Grandaughter who wrote us, that mr Varick had made you a visit and told them that you talkd of Quincy—will you do me the favour to present me to your wife and daughter and if as Some Suppose we may be permitted to know and recognize our former Friends is not the contemplation of Such knowledge


Title: To John Adams from William Stephens Smith, 23 February 1814
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir—
Washington City Feby. 23d. 1814

More trouble hangs over the Camp The President last night, indulged The Secretary of War, by consenting to the arrest of Major General Wilkinson—The Court martial is detailed, and dispatches with an official arrest were this morning, sent off from the War office, to the Army of the North—somebody must be sacrificed to cover the blunders of the War—
Yours respectfully,
W.S. Smith


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to John Quincy Adams, 27 February 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, John Quincy

my dear Son
Quincy Feb’ry 27th 1814

I learn that the vessel in which our ministers are to embark, will not go untill thursday.  I will write you a few more lines, in hopes they may be in Time, and that for the pleasure I know it will give you, to learn, that your Father and I have So far recoverd from our late sickness, as to ride the last week to weymouth, to visit our old Friend Dr Tufts, who in his 82d year, still enjoys So much vigor, as to mount his Horse, and ride Several miles in a Day. his mental faculties are Still active, and correct, altho the outward frame decays—
I who am in my seventyth year find my memory, like a Sieve. I feel more anxious for information and read with more solicitude to retain what I read than ever. yet the impression is like a press coppy; faint, difficult to retrace, and often escapes me. your Father retains what he reads much better, but Since his Sickness, his Eyes Suffer, with the general debility of his Body, and mine Share in the Same calamity.
I am Sometimes tempted to complain that at a period of Life, when we must retire from the active Scenes of it, we Should be deprived by loss of Sight, from the mental food, which we most need for Support, when the world is receeding from us. but as it is  the order of nature, and there is as morning and a noon, there must be an Evening, when the Lengthening Shadows admonish us of approaching Night—and reconcile us to our Destiny—
Like cold water, to a thirsty Soul would a refreshing Letter be from you, which informd me of your Health, and that of your Family. I really pine to learn Something about you. Six month has elapsed Since the date of your last Letter—I have received your No 48—but from 45 to 48 are missing, so is 44.
whether you have received any of mine written Since that period, I know not. I hope to hear more frequently from you when you arrive at Gottenburgh—
It is needless for me to write any thing upon politicks. mr Clay, mr Russel, and the news paper I inclose will give you information—
You will hear much of the NE. opposition to the war; the Restrictive System bears very hard upon them, and creates much clamour; uneasiness, and evil Speaking; fraud and I fear perjury. they people are call’d upon for heavey taxes, to an enormous amount and the means of paying them, destroy’d by Restrictions and Embargo. by these measure, a spirit of Hostility, has been excited against the National Government, and the Rulers:
I wish a different policy might be pursued. but I fear that it will not Suddenly take place.
A prospect of peace upon Solid foundation may releive us—Some persons have tumbled least a rebellion Should burst forth,—I have not feard it, beleiving that there is too much virtue, and good Sense, and patriotism Still existing in this my dear Native State to go Such lengths, altho they String angry Resolves like ropps ropes of onions— Your Dear Sons are well. I hope to go and See them in a few days— My Love to Mrs Adams and to Charles, and all others, who have any claim to it. from your affectionate / Mother

A Adams my physician Dr Hoolbrook advises me to write to you to procure some of the genuine Riga Balsam, sovereign in Rheumatic complaints with which  I am Soarly afflicted: in comes in small bottles—half a dozen of them would  be a gratefull present to your Mother.


Title: To John Adams from William Stephens Smith, 28 February 1814
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir.
Washington City Saturday  Monday Feby. 28th. 1814

I received yesterday a Letter from my dear Caroline of the 20th. inst. informing me of the better health of yourself and Mrs. Adams, of which, of course I was happy to be informed Heaven grant you both a perfect restoration, and that you may continue a blessing to society and a comfort to your family and friends—The removal of Mr. Granger produces a considerable sensation—and the proposed nomination of Govr. meggs of the ohio territory, to fill the vacancy is not generally well received, even by the friends of the administration—
It is conjectured that the Senate will not sanction the nomination, but of this, Individually, I doubt—
my Love and respects to the family / Yours Sincerely

W.L. Smith


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to John Quincy Adams, February 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, John Quincy

my dear son
Quincy Febry 1814

I was never more at a loss what to say to you than at the present moment, to accuse you of neglect I cannot, I will not, for I do not believe it possible—yet so unfortunate have I been, that not a line has reachd me from you of a later date than the first of last May, two packets have since been received containing Letters for your Father your Brothers & your children, but not a solatary line for Your mother; who may at least plead her more frequent communications to you than any other of the family—tho unfortunately it has been her painfull office to give you pain by information which she would most joyfully have consignd to any other pen—such has been many of her last Letters, some of which she presumes you must have received some, and therefore she draws a veil over the too distressing scene, just recovering myself from a Dangerous Lung Fever I have but little strength to write yet the opportunity which now presents itself is one which I ought not & cannot on neglect.
Lord Castlereagh dispatches to our government have reachd us before the Neptune has arrived. we are daily and anxiously looking for her, not a line has been received from the ministers by government since their first arrival in Russia—The president has accepted the offer of the prince regent to Negotiate and I presume will nominate a minister to join you in the place of Mr Gallatin—and by this opportunity I write to say that I shall rejoice most sincerely if the negotiation should terminate in an honorable peace—and put an end to the war in which we as a Nation can have no desire to see prolonged, altho in time our troops would be disciplined to the combat and certainly do not want courage. yet they are not a regular Army—and many, many must face through want of experience and able Leaders, and that skill which can only be acquird by time and action—compare our Land forces with our sailors and our Generals, with our Commodores and Captains—what a contrast presents itself? You will hear enough upon this subject to sicken you—
I had a Letter from John the last week who writes me that both he & George and he were well. they have been six weeks without my seeing them. oweing to my own sickness and that of your Mothers Family—soon after I was scayd with a Lung fever Mrs Adams was taken sicke with the same fever, leaving an infant six months old—and at  the same time an absess forming in one Breast I took the Baby home and procured a Nurse into the House where they now both are. she is better of her fever, but her breast is not yet come to the crisis—I was very fortunate in being able to get the Childrens cloaths all made up for winter & they were well provided the weeks before I was taken sicke—  with every accessory— I have written to both of them to get Letters ready and to send them to me before this vessel sails
I hope the Neptune will arrive before the sailing of this ship. that I may feel more spirits and find more pleasing subjects to address you upon than at present themselves to / Your ever affectionate / Mother
A Adams


Title: From John Adams to William Stephens Smith, 2 March 1814
From: Adams, John
To: Smith, William Stephens

Dear Sir,
Quincy March 2. 1814.

I have been sick a Month, and my eyes and hands incapable of writing otherise you would have heard more from me. Your favor of 18 Feby. arrived yesterday. Thanks for the Gazette. Well may you and I be perplexed in our calculations on post scenes and present unpleasant prospects, relative to the interior of the political state of Europe, and the interior & exterior aspect of our own national career “for I believe the Emperors of Russia, Austria and France, & the Kings of England, Prussia, Sweden, and Denmark and the Sicilies are as much puzzled as we are. Nor do I believe the President or any of his Ministers, plus clarvoyins; more clear sighted.
The negotiations, have work enough. Is Holland to be a Kingdom? Are the netherlands to belong again to Austria? Is the confederation of the Rhine to be dissolved? Are the electorates to be restored and all the petty principalities to the ancient Germanic Body, and that phantom of a diet, introduced by Charlemaign? Are the Cape, Batavia, Java and the Spice, with Surinam and West India Islands to be restored to the Dutch? What is to become of Spanish South America? Is Ferdinand the 7th to be restored? And the inquisition? How is Italy, to be divided? And the Hanse Towns.
Suppose I should refer you to the History of Europe, only from Charlemaigne, or from the Treaty of Munster? The History of Louis 14th The History of de ? The negotiations of d’Estrades? of D’avaus? of Jeannet? and of Bolingbrooke? You would call me a pedant, and all this reading would do you little good. I have fatigued myself with a great deal of it to very little purpose. The world is changed. South and North America have arisen. Russia has been thawed out of the eternal snows & has crawled or stalked over all Europe, a tremendous power, whose future influence cannot be foreseen. In one point I am clear, we ought to cultivate a good understanding with this power.
There ought to be a new “Consulate del Mare” The other is 8 or 9 hundred years old. The new one ought to be sworn to be observed, as the old one was by all the powere of Europe and Jerusalem.
We have had a pleasant visit from John with two agreeable young Gentlemen his companions, a Mr. De Christie & a Mr. de Wint. Caroline is gone to Newton. I want her here to read me of evenings, & assist Louisa and Susan in copying my Letters.
Massachusetts has not yet a King, independent of all but God & its own sward.
Comfort yourself. Keep up your spirits? Alls well that ends well, whatever you & I may do to prevent it.
(signed) John Adams.


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 4 March 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, Thomas Boylston

4 March 1814

Received Quincy March 4th 1814 of Thomas B Adams Esqr Twenty-five Dollars and fifty Cents in full for one quarter’s interest on J Q Adams’s Note
$25.50
Abigail Adams


Title: From John Adams to William Stephens Smith, 4 March 1814
From: Adams, John
To: Smith, William Stephens

(Copy)Dear Sir,
Quincy March 4 1814

I know not what to say to your Letter of 23rd. There are Men whom disaster haunts through life. Sinclair was one & Wilkinson is another. With apparent capacities and without any manifest guilt, nothing ever succeeds in their hands.
To cover the blunders of the war, recourse must be had to the blunders and intrigues and corruptions in politics, from the commencement of the Revolution and long before: but especially to those within 14 years past. And who are to be involv’d in this Inquiry? Washington & Burr; among others of less magnitude. If there is evidence of treacherous communication with the enemy against our Country, shooting is too merciful. If cowardice only I leave you soldiers to say. If mere incapacity, I leave those who appointed them to decide.
That there will be a resurrection of some spirit, good or evil in this Nation, e’er long is too obvious to be winked out of sight.
Every Nation is as free and as happy as it deserves to be. When truth honor & virtue lose all credit; all must be trusted to what is called the Chapter of accidents.
Caroline is in Boston and we are convalescent.
(signed) John Adams.


Title: To John Adams from William Stephens Smith, 4 March 1814
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir—
Washington City Friday march 4th. 1814.

Yesterday at 1/2 past 5. P.M. The Bill authorising a loan of twenty five Millions of Dollars, passed the House of Representatives by a Majority of forty two—It has been a Subject of animated debate for twenty day’s—it now of course, passed to the Senate, It is not expected that it will long rest there—
The Papers which I forward and those you receive thro’ other channels, put you regularly in full possession of all public questions afloat here—of course I need not open the floodgates of my immagination, and plague you with long letters on comeing scenes as I used to do, when in the Woods, I will only say that the administration and the Nation at large, do not appear to me, to rest on a bed of roses, or pillows of down
I was prevailed upon last night for the first time to attend Mrs: Madisons Levee, it was crowded, The President and Vice President appear both in good health and the latter resquested me to present to you and Mrs: Adams his respectful regards—
Mr. and Mrs: Otis and the young Ladies were there in full glee and pleasantry—Governor Wrights motion relative to the raising of the embargo, has produced a very considerable sensation and I apprehend will be the cause of much Mercantile Speculation—
It is said a dispatch Ship is preparing at Annapolis for Gottenberg—I will put in train of conveyance any Letters you may wish to address to Mr. Adams you may forward to me—
Very respectfully and Affectionately Yours
W.S. Smith


Title: From Charles Francis Adams to John Adams, 5 March 1814
From: Adams, Charles Francis
To: Adams, John

My Dear Brother
St: Petersburg 5 March 1814

I am staying at home from School, because I have got a bad Cold and Cough: but I love to be always doing something good, and I think I cannot be doing any thing better than writing to my Brothers.
I told you in my last Letter that it was very cold in this Country: and since I wrote it, I have been to see the Rope dancers, and Tumblers, and other Show men, who have their Stages built upon the River during the Carnaval; which here in Russia is called butter week.
Papa says that in America we keep neither Carnaval nor butter week but I suppose you know what they mean.
 Give my duty to Grandpapa and Grandmama, and my love to all my Cousins.
I am, dear John your ever affectionate Brother.
Charles Francis Adams.


Title: From Charles Francis Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 6 March 1814
From: Adams, Charles Francis
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

Honoured Grandmama
St: Petersburg 6 March, 1814

At Mr: Fishwick’s School, where I am, there are sixteen boys besides myself, and besides his two daughters, Charlotte and Eliza.
We learn on Mondays and Fridays Russian; on Tuesdays and Thursdays German; and on Tuesday Morning, Drawing; on Wednesdays and Fridays, French, Every day English Spelling and Grammar. Writing every day except Saturdays and cyphering sometimes.
On Saturdays in the Morning we read in the Testament and say the Catechism: and at twelve O’Clock all the boys go home and stay till Monday morning.
On Sundays and the other days when I stay at home I read three chapters in the French Bible to Papa. I have read through the New Testament; and have got to the second book of Chronicles in the Old Testament.
And now, my Dear Grand-mama, I have told you how I pass my time, and I am, / your Dutiful Grand-son
Charles Francis Adams.


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to John Quincy Adams, 8 March 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, John Quincy

My dear Son
Quincy March 8th

Altho I sent Letters yesterday to go by our Ministers from N York, yet a new opportunity offering I readily embrace it. mr Tuckerman has kindly sent us word that he is permitted to go in a vessel from Norfolk to Gottenburgh, and will take any Letters we may have, as his Brother the Rev’d mr Tuckerman came in his behalf, and will wait untill I write you a few lines my Letter must be short.
I have the pleasure to inform you that both your Father, and I have recoverd from our late severe sickness and that the rest of the Family are well, both here, and at your Brothers, that George and John came home on Saturday to the annual March meeting, and are both very well. John has commenced learning the French Language at an Evening school, and George is perfecting himself in it.
we are in great anxiety at not hearing from you I have four missing Letters between 44 & 48 the latest received from you, and have been much allarmed at the report, that the Neptune was lost in the Gulph of finland, we feard that William was on board with his family. his Father has been much distrest about him.—
He is a most sincere mourner, almost to melancholy, for the loss we have all sustaind, accounts of which must have long ago reachd you, I have felt much for William knowing all the circumstances which must render the Death of such a Mother peculiarly distressing to him— and I have been not a little anxious respecting his present situation—
Caroline is yet with me, how long I shall keep her, remains to be decided as there  is some prospect of her being taken lawfully from me, and carried to her native state altho I shall regret much her leaving me— I will not be the means of obstructing an agreable settlement if such it should prove. she is just comeing upon the stage, I am just quitting it.—
But she is a jewel of no small value— and I shall be very scrupelous for her.
Of wars and fightings, you will hear enough— of complaining of grumbling of threatning— more than is meet, our own state is very sausy— very angry — very foolish— they bark but have not bit, and I hope will be restraind. there are some hopes that mr Dexter will be chosen our next Govenour— if he should, I think much might be hoped that party animosity would be healed—
I have many hopes that peace may be made the ensueing summer. I know it may, if Great Britain means justly, and will act honorably.
My best Love to your dear wife to whom, I have several times written, but fear my Letters have shared the same fate with those to you.
poor Hull is upon trial, what is to be his fate, time must determine. Wilkinson too, is said to be under arrest, Granger dismist from office— your public dispatchs I presume will give you every information—
I am as ever your truly / affectionate Mother
A—


Title: From John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 8 March 1814
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

My dear Son
Quincy March 8th. 14.

I will not afflict you with lamentations over the Confinement of your Parents during the greater part of the Winter. Your Mother is restored to her usual health. I am better but feeble. My Eyes have suffered, and the quivering of my Fingers renders Writing painful, at a Time when The Hon. Mr Taylor of Virginia has published an immense Volume the lucubrations of Twenty years upon my obsolete and forgotten Writings. What shall I do with this learned and ingenious Writer?
Dexter has been made candidate for Governor and the Usual Sluices are opened to drown him. I am not sorry, for there is a Sort of Comfort in having companions.
We have lost our Sociable Neighbor Mrs Beale
Smith makes now and then a Laconic Speech: but on the wrong side. You will hear enough of dissentions among all our political and military Grandees. Otis is a Judge in the Boston Israel!!!
Your Sons are here, Well, good Scholars, in fine Spirits. George is Writing in this room.
I am reading Middletons free Inquiry, which I recommend to your Attentive Perusal.
Much as I long to See you, I begin almost to despair. Remember me to all.
Mr Gustavus Tuckerman Son of a very respectable old Friend will deliver this from your ardently affectionate
John Adams


Title: From Julia Stockton Rush to Abigail Smith Adams, 11 March 1814
From: Rush, Julia Stockton
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

My dear Madam
Philadelphia March 11th 1814

Your kind attention in answering my letters heretofore, and my last being yet unanswered excites the apprehension that your health has been worse than common this winter I hope I may hear of any other cause, except an abatement in your friendship, but that I do not for a moment admit—Your condsending goodness to me has perhaps caused me to expect more than I have a right to look for, more especially as it is at so great an odds that you write to be—but I am dear madam really very anxous to hear how you are—do therefore let me know if it is only in half a dozen lines, if you are well I shall hereafter be satisfied to perfect leesure to favor me with a letter—I am again about to trouble you to commit to commit letters for my daughters to the gentleman in Boston who has been so good as to send them for me—I have the pleasure to  know they were both received and in a short time after they were sent, I have been intending to send them for some time but hoping for the pleasure of hearing from you, before I troubled you again.
 My Sons and daughters join me in respectful remembrance to Mr Adams and to you—Believe me dear madam / your obliged frend
Julia Rush


Title: From William Stephens Smith to Abigail Smith Adams, 13 March 1814
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

Very Dear and esteemed Madam
Sunday Washington City March 13th. 1814

I have your Letter of the 2d. inst. one from My dear Caroline of the 28th. of Febry. and one from my son John of the first and one from Mr. DeWint of the 2d. inst. all of which I have answered, the majority however goes by this post— The subject is highly interesting I have promptly answered Caroline, my Son and Mr. De Wint— I wrote a note to The Honble: Mr. Oakley a member in Congress from the County of Dutchess, where Mr. De Wint resides, and have sent the answer I recieved, to Caroline, as also a copy of my letter to mr. De Wint, all of which she will of course communicate to you and The President. I doubt not but Mr. Oakley’s Letter corroborating the statement made by my son John, in favour of Mr. De Wint will be perfectly satisfactory— and I hope my own letter to the young Gentleman will meet with the approbation of the Pres. and yourself—
It is gratifying to me that the deportment of Mr. De Wint while at Quincy met with your approbation, and I have now doubt if the connexion takes place, discretly and prudently arranged, they will both be happy— On this subject, you must favour me with frequent communications, and my Dear Daughter with a continuance of your affectionate and correct counsel.
You have pardoned me for my past silence this Subject will reopen the door of communication—
I saw Mrs: Hellen yesterday for the first time, and communicated your wish to be informed, of her health and that of her sisters— She said she had been negligent and unwell that she was indebted to you a letter, which she would now promptly pay—
I enjoy a great share of health, remember me affectionately to the family— I am Dr. Madam— yours sincerely
W. S. Smith


Title: From Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody to Abigail Smith Adams, 15 March 1814
From: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

My Dear Sister,
Atkinson March 15. 1814

The peircing cold air of this Month has made me quiver so that I could not quit the fire side scarcely for a moment, & it has gone to the marrow of Mr Peabody’s bones, so that it has made him very lame again, & is obliged to walk with a cane—But otherways he is a well as could be expected, for which I desire to be grateful, to that gracious Being who has brought us to see the return of another Spring—I am thankful that we are yet numbered with the living—Our work is not yet finished—may we be enabled to do good to the last moment of our lives, is my ardent petition—Though I confess we are deprived of some of those means, which I fondly hoped to enjoy in this our decline of Life—And it has wounded my feelings in my late Sickness to see my dear Friend, bowed down by pain & Infirmites, standing in real need of that very kind of pecuniary assistance, which in the course of his life, he had often given to others—At that time my Lungs were so oppressed, that I could not speak a word, & I could convey my thoughts only by warming a slate, & taking it into Bed, & writing with a pencil for I could not set up to hold a pen—In this way I communicated to Mr Peabody my thoughts & wishes upon the Subject, which I presume my dear Son, has acquainted you with—And I desire to be thankful he was able, & that he so readily afforded us relief, from the present distress—for it was great anxiety to us both, to think all our property must be sacrificed—There was no other person to whom I could apply, or that I could feel safe—for I had not security for anything, Mr Peabody intending, by engaging to leave me the use of the whole of his property, if I  continued here—But Circumstances often change the whole design, & alter the whole tenor of Affairs—
My dear Sister, I have been thinking of my own little parternal property, for which I have reason daily to bless my dear Parents memory, & kindness, as well as my heavenly Benefactor for bestowing it, upon their arduous exertions—for it has added much to my tranquility & comfort—So much that it is my desire to leave as much of it unimpaired as I possibly can to my two children—especially to my Daughter—as much of the real property as I can—I have found so much advantage in it myself. Womens personal property we knows flys with the wind—But real estate, is heavier, & not so easy blown away—Therefore, I would wish it might remain upon equal ground at least, for my two children—If Mr Shaw advances the whole Share of mony to build, it will make the property unequal—Therefore, will it not be just, best, & right for m half the rent which comes to m my right, be used for the building necessary for tter—I can now spare it better than in the Summer, & return to you for the purpose of assisting, & defraying the expense of Building, which you will please to give me credit for forty Dollars.
Mr Dexter we find is now the Butt, of slander, malice, & Envy—Well might the Poet, say, the post of Honour, is the private Station—May this find your beloved friend your dear self, & family in health, & every Blessing—& believe that with the Sons, & Daughters of Trouble, & Sorrow, your affectionate Sister


Title: From François Adriaan Van der Kemp to Abigail Smith Adams, 15 March 1814
From: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

Dear and high respected Madam!
Olden barneveld 15 March—1814

Among Several letters—laid aside—during my late exertions in behalf of a countrÿ, which I cannot cease to love, I must do my Self the pleasure, of paying you a debt of the gratitude for your favour of Febr. 23, with which you was So obliging to honour me again. Knowing the yet infirm State of your health, I had not dared to flatter mÿ Self, to receive So Soon a fresh proof of your kind remembrance. But So it is, when we have once bestowed our attention on an individual, and consider him not undeserving then we find Some delight—by increasing his obligations, and So I am happÿ, in having gained Some Share in mrs Adams attention, for which, nevertheless, my old respected friend maÿ claim the best reward from my heart, which I can give. Why—my Dear Madam! do you raise the apprehension, that I never again Shall personallÿ receive the proofs of your—and your Consort’s attachment and esteem? once I hope your fore Sight Shall not be verified by the event—I live in hope—and if it pleases Providence, to gratify me with the means—to visit once my children at Philadelphia—then certainly I Shall visit Quincÿ—and one Single daÿ would render me happier—than any other Society what ever. Let mr Adams Saÿ, I am an Enthusiast—I plead guilty in the case of frendhip, and, if a failing it is, I hope and praÿ it will not leave me, as with mÿ last breath.
I know, you could not but rejoice with me, on the emancipation of the Dutch—although their ancient Government never was to be restored—I hope it will not—it was too full of defects—They would be exposed again, to run the Same disastrous course—and unconditioned Subjection would be their final lot. I know not one Single example, that a lasting Republican form of Government has been twice reëstablished—not one, that a free Nation recovered its Liberty twice. I was confounded with this, at first appearance, new phenomenon—but it is onlÿ in appearance. Under their mild government—the Dutch enjoy’d Security of their persons—their property their religion—and believed themselves free—and yet—the equestrian order onlÿ—and the Magistrates of the Voting Cities—all electing themselves—enjoy’d Liberty—while the whole mass of the Nation was actuallÿ excluded even from a Shadow of influence—during the time of the Republick—the Inhabitants of the Smaller cities of the countrÿ being not even—in anÿ manner represented. An essential Share of Liberty maÿ be, and I trust, Shall be allotted to the Nation at large, be it, that the form of a monarchical Government is Sanctioned. This requires the Intrest of the house of Orange—this will Secure the civil and Religious rights of the Inhabitans, and ensure the happiness of the whole.
Permit me to reflect, that, it is now quite another case as with William iii—He consulted then his interest onlÿ, and knew better the Situation of that Land, as that Sagacious W. Temple. It was not in his power—to have consolidated that vast bodÿ of Such heterogeneous materials—It would have crumbled in pieces unquestionably after his death. Now—all the ancient forms—of provincial and municipal government had been—Since 19 years been destroÿd, and the means—to collect them again—chiefly taken awaÿ. The endeavours—to collect the members of 1794 & 5—were in vain—Imperious necessity required a Provisionarÿ government—or bloodshed—plunder would have desolated the Land. It is a fact—that all classes—concurred— in the offer of the Sovereignty, and—if a Constitution—by which future abuses are cut of—is obtained I doubt not or She will be happÿ—To be frank, and I flatter myself—that I can not by my bluntness abuse your partial indulgence—I would prefer anÿ monarchical form of Government, did I reside there—than to remain a Subject of the French empire—even if Bonaparte was out the Question. I acknowledge with you—clouds obscure yet futurity— and human wisdom is baffled everÿ year of this eventful period in her prognostications—but the Lord—God reigns—and Shall bring at last  light from darkness. He Save this our Countrÿ—that the latest posterity maÿ reap the fruits of the Labours of Washington and Adams! What Shall—I Saÿ—about your Sailors and passengers? you can not wish that I Should write mÿ own condemnation—Maÿ they never undeserve the eulogium, So generouslÿ bestowed on them “that they have not broken through the restraints of Law, nor Set at nought the government” and what less could be expected from men—honoured with the high esteem of a mrs Adam for their private  virtues; I will not Saÿ—that the fare of Some of us might have been coarse, and our freight exorbitant Which made us long—to have another master at the helm—but do not care much about a frown or maternal reproof—and John Luzac was not verÿ Sparing in either—if after all I am kindly recalled—and treated with that tender  and honourable attachment—Which I enjoy’d at Quincÿ. After this humble confession—for which I know possess, no doubt, your plenarÿ absolution—I maÿ tell you—in deep confidence—that I do not like verÿ much your Mr Dexter—I consider it possible—that I do not full justice to Him—but—by your exalted encomiums—I have become apprehensive, that he maÿ be Successful: and then I praÿ—the Almighty take him—and the Good New-England people under his protection, as did till now. One thing I am pretty certain of—my friend—if aiming to rule—would not have wrote mr Dexter’s Letter—althoug he had condescended—to declare—that he Should not decline the offer—and I could not have Stooped to it on anÿ terms whatever.
Continue, my Dear Madam! by your influence and patriotism, to guide and instruct the youth—and those of riper years—When our Cornelia’s become indifferent of our country’s welfare—when mothers—sisters—daughters cease to be Patriots—adieu then with our Liberty.
I have no Sickness—but headache—free nearly five weeks—have last thurs Fridaÿ harangued a crowded audience—and be applauded—not by a mob—but by a few partial frends—by Some accomplished Ladies—and in a most courteous manner by a Leading Republican Nat. Williams—gently pointing at one word—which is alreadÿ altered—I had already Send it—if I possessed a copÿ—I Shall Send it directly when printed. Will you take care of the copies for John Q. A.? I was gratified with the information—that Mr. Shaw—was your relative—he gained my love affectionate good will at our first meeting—The next time—I come at Boston—I must see the Mother and Son. miss Eliot informs me, mrs Quincÿ is again in health—
Praÿ remember me to Mr & Mrs—Quincÿ—recollect, that you urged my frend to introduce me to your friends! and I was and am enraptured with them. Varick has my high, affectionate esteem—his modesty prevents—that not So much justice is done him as he deserves—Continue to honour me with your good opinion with a Share in your frendship—I Shall praÿ the Almighty—to hear your prayers—and remain—with the highest and affectionate regard / Dear and high respected Madam! / Your devoted and obliged frend
Fr. Adr. v. d. Kemp


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to John Quincy Adams, 16 March 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, John Quincy

my dear Son
Quincy March 16th 1814

I See by the paper that a cartel is to sail from Newyork for Gottenburgh. altho I have written to you frequently of late, by our ministers, mr Clay and Russel, and again by mr Tuckerman, who sails from Norfolk, yet I know it will give you pleasure to hear every day, that your parents, and your children are well.
George and John, who are both attentive to their Studies, have lately past a few days with us, and altho they may not improve so fast, as they would do, under your paternal car,; and additional instruction; they are by no means deficient.
I have not any ambition to have them Men, while they are but Boys. I have seen the fatal concequence of premature acquirements. Altho calculated to dazzel the beholders, their duration is short lived.
“A Blaize betokens Brevity of Life”
I have recently Seen a Buckminster and an Eliot, cut down in the morning of Life, sacrifices to their incessant their eager and insatiable thirst of Learning and Study. and an other victim I fear is offering up upon the same alter. the Mantle of Buckminster has fallen upon Everet, who only Nineteen years of age has been calld to Supply the desk, made vacant by the death of mr Buckminster, Loth as he was, to take upon him at so early an Age; so importent, and so arduous a task, he wished to be allowed a longer period to prepare himself. but the uninimity, and importunity of the Society, overpowrd his inclinations, and upon the ninth of Feb’ry he was ordained. his tallents are of a superiour order, his two first sermons after his ordination; I have been favourd with the reading of them; the first, upon the difficulties of preaching the gospel his Text, “who is sufficient for these things” the other upon the comforts and supports of the gospel, these discourses display a maturity of thought and reflection, a candour and purity of mind, becomeing a minister of the Gospel, and far beyond what might be expected from one of his years.
I thought you would feel an interest in this young gentleman, his Brother having been your pupil, who is also distinguishing himself in the political department, in which he discovers a strong mind, and sound principles. he has been writing and publishing Remarks upon the speech of our first Majestrate, at the opening oft he Session of the Legislature, he concludes a preface to it, in these words having been attacked by the Rebel.
“The writer know’s that those whose Friendship he values, and whose judgment he prizes, will do justice to his intentions, whether they differ from him, or agree with him in sentiment, they know the school in which he was Educated, and to them he may be permitted to Say with Corneilles Nicomede”
“Le Maitre, qui prit soin d’instruire ma jeunesse
Ne M’a jamais appris a faire une bassesse”
In writing a Letter, Subject to inspection you will not expect me to give you political opinions, nor even a narative of the transactions which have taken place during the session of the Legislature.
I will only remind you of a saying of John Wilkes when he was writing his North Britain. “I have been trying said he, to see how near I could approach to Treason, without committing it”
“Sacred duty of insurrection”
is comeing near enough.
We have felt very anxious respecting Mr and Mrs Smith, as he informd his Father, that he intended to return in the Neptune, which has since been reported to have been lost, in the Gulph of finland. I hope without foundation.
My Love to Mrs Adams and to Charles alass I have not any Letters from you to acknowledge, since july last; altho that Number shows that four previous, to that are missing.
“I know not the things which are to happen” but this one thing I know, that I am ever / your affectionate / Mother
A A—


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Harriet Welsh, 18 March 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Welsh, Harriet

dear Harriot
Quincy March 18th 1814

The Sermon’s were returnd without my thanks which should have accompanied them, with expressions of pleasure confirmation and improvement, which I derived from the perusal of them. they discover a maturity of thought reflection, and research which do honourto the writer.
Your society have every prospect, of consolation from the Character, tallents, and Superiour endowments of their present pastor, for the loss they sustaind in a spirit, too Etherial to dwell long upon Earth, but whose mantle appears to have fallen upon his successor. Long may he be continued to you, in contradiction to the poet that
“A Blaize betokens Brevity of Life”
I share largely in your anxiety, and solicitude for the Friend of your heart, and the solace of my declineing years—could I know him—as she is known, and be assured of affections, “ever even” of a Heart as pure, a temper as mild, a disposition as conciliating, a piety as maternal I could yeald her less reluctantly. All these good and amiable qualities may exist, but they are rare, and as yet, I am almost a stranger to him who solicists my treasure for Life I feel not only my own responsibility, but that of the dear departed Gaurdian, who rests in the Tomb.
Into the Bosom of a Mother, a daughter may daughter may repose her confidence, destitute of that resource Caroline committed to her Father her destiny. She has received a most kind an affectionate return. From Mr ——— a Letter, “warm from the heart, and faithfull to its fires.”
and now I consider the die, as cast and she must say with St paul, Behold I go bound to ——— not knowing the things which may befall me.”
To see and know that she was happily setled in Life, altho so far seperated from me, when Age and increasing infirmities, assure me, that here I have no abideing place, will be a solace to me, to have left her destitute of a protector, would have increased my anxiety.
I place much dependence upon her Brothers attachment and Friendship, and the Character which he gives of him, from an early acquaintance with him, an only Son, with an independence of fortune: discreet and regular in his habits; not in the least given to expence, or fashionable pleasure, if he had been, would he have been captivated, with Caroline; whose Beauty could not attract, and to whose fortune, or expectations he could be no stranger to,
Caroline when she sees you will make to you what communications she pleases—
I have in confidence unbosond myself to you, no one of the family have been acquainted with the subject, but the p.t. When the Gentleman makes a second visit it will not be any longer necessary to keep Silence, the distance readers many things proper, which would not be so, if the parties were where “thought, could meet thought” and a constant intercourse assimilate their minds to each other
I am dear Harriot your affectionate / Friend
Abigail Adams


Title: From Harriet Welsh to Abigail Smith Adams, 18 March 1814
From: Welsh, Harriet
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

My dear Madam
March 18th

I went yesterday & return’d Mr. E’s sermons to  Mr. Lyman’s to Mr E was there, & gave him the thanks which the President sent—I promis’d to pass the day with Miss L. & came home to say so—Your kind letter was then handed me—Susan came here & wrote you I too wrote a few lines which were seal’d in her’s to go yesterday but the stage-man had gone when they were sent—Mr. G. has just call’d & taken the letter. You will perceive that I was agitated when I wrote—I did not so soon expect to hear that all was settled & beside the words “I consider the die as cast” spell bound my imagination: & fill’d me for the time with fears that the happiness of my dear Caroline was at the decission of a chance throw—but I have had time since to reflect more calmly, to her brothers hands her destiny has been committed I think—& he is acquainted intimately with the gentleman, he too knows full well the virtues of his sister & is tenderly interested in her welfare & would not I am convinced suffer his strong desire to have her near him to influence his judgment—I am at ease therefore as to his character & situation—there are however peculiarities of mind & feeling wh’ no one is without & which should be known before an engagement so solemn should be entered into—for this personal knowledge is necessary & I do not think the opportunities have been to either party sufficient & I shall not consequently allow myself to let anything transpire respecting the affair—it is Carolines request as well as yours—. You think Caroline has not personal attractions we Bostonians think differently & I am more convinced that I am right since she has taken another heart by storm—for there has not been time for a regular attack by all the forces of her mind & heart, whatever the conquored may imagine. What a changing world we live in! my date reminds me that just at this time one month “one little month” since, Caroline was first introduced to this man whose hand is to mark out her future course & upon whom she is to depend for her earthly happiness principally; would that her sainted mother could now sanction what is done & comfort & encourage her beloved child, but we may not question the kindness of our heavenly Father with Caroline I am thankful that you & her other dear friends are left to advise & comfort her—. I had cherish’d fondly: a hope that her future life would be pass’d near us, to cheer & to be cheer’d by us in affliction & that with her cup of rejoicing ours might be mingled. it will be hard to part with her—but the shade which it will throw over my future prospect shall will not prevent my sincere gratitude for the brightness if may diffuse over hers That she will be a blessing & a great blessing too—to whoever she is given I have always said & that is may please heaven to make her husband one to her is the fervent prayer of her & your affectionate & sincere / friend
H W—


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to William Stephens Smith, 22 March 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Smith, William Stephens

Dear Sir
Quincy March 22d 1814

I received your Letter of March the 12th in replie to mine, of the 2d ult. the method you took to inform yourself respecting the Character and circumstances of the person in Question was highly judicious and the return you received, very Satisfactory and pleasing. the terms you have exacted met my cordial approbation. I should perhaps, had it been left to me  have prolonged the time of probation, feeling as I do the responsibility of my own Situation. endeavoring to think and act, in the double capacity of her paternal Guardian, I inquire what would have been her Sentiments, how much would She have wished to have known the temper and disposition of the person to whom she gave the darling of her Heart, who is in herself a price far above Rubies—
as much of our happiness in Life depend upon our connexions, I want to learn Something respecting the Mother of this Gentleman and of his whole family—I think it would be proper for you to See the Gentleman before he makes an other visit to Quincy—as it is presumed that he will make but one more, before the final one in Sep’br
Congress I presume will rise in all this month of Spit I think you was rather hard upon the Gentleman in telling him that the previous question Should have been put to you—
I Shall maintain the supremicy of the Ladies in this matter—in the present case while making application to the Father, the Lady might be otherways engaged—or after having obtaind the Fathers consent, the Lady might reject So that I cannot condemn the foresight of the gentleman, who feeling the full force of an attraction took care to have as few repellents as possible.
In every Step taken, I decern a prudent caution and circumspection which So importent a Step decicion demands. I have only to add my wishes that the final issue may be as productive of happiness to all parties as this shifting and transitory State will allow, to those whose expectations are founded upon a Rational, not an enthusiastical System or Romantic Views of human  Life.
 I thank you for the information of the vessel going to Gottenburgh—I had before Sent Letters by a gentleman who goes from Boston in her. we last week got a Letter by a vessel which had been captured, and afterwards released dated in Sep’br—when the ministers were waiting to get their dellineation from England, and as they did not expect it untill Nov’br he adds that then the Blockade of Ice would prevent their return this winter whatever might be the result
as this Letter was to his Father, he made no mention of Family Subjects which  he  does for me—So that not a syllable transpired with respect to your son or his family—I hope Sir as you have broken the Ice you will find yourself more disposed to continue to your communications to me and be assured they will meet a cordial / reaction from your affectionate
A Adams


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Harriet Welsh, 22 March 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Welsh, Harriet

dear Harriet
Quincy March 22d. 1814

I received your note of Monday I believe, as well as a very  kind and friendly Letter previous to that, the note in which your feelings so powerfully opperated, I have put to rest as you desird. Caroline has quieted your mind, I trust upon some subjects, as the communications have given, much satisfaction to me.
so far so good, yet there are many things yet to be learnt, respecting disposition and temper, delicacy of sentiment, and many other qualities which require a much longer, and more intimate acquaintance to discern. these must now be taken upon trust, and I think the preliminary articles drawn up by the Col. savours sufficiently of the Restrictive System, to try the patience of the young man, one article that of the previous question being put to him— I have rebelld against, as encroaching upon the Sovereign Rights of the Ladies—
I inclose you the Col’s Letter to me, which you will return when read. your own delicacy will perceive why this subject should not be made publick, nor get air, out of the family— should it, the gentleman might not so well like to hear, that it got abroad from the Family. I presume Caroline will get Letters again this week. I wish you could come and pass a day or two, if no more you would feel more at your ease— and better satisfied—
I did not get any Letter myself. 4 of mine previous to the last number are missing and how many more I know not, the date was Sep’br. Georges Eleventh Bible Letter came and is the closing one. he usually reserves family matters for my Letters, so that not any mention is made in this of any member of it—he writes that they were waiting to receive a return from England of the proposed negotiation after the Refusal to treat under a Mediation, and that a definitive answer could not be expected untill nov’er when the waters would be so closed as not to admit of mr Gallatin or Bayards return during the winter
It is our Thomas Millar, Nephew to mr Charles Millar who is dead, he has been in a consumption ever-since the fall of the year.
If you see Susan, tell her that it is time for her to return, on Saturday at furtherest.
make no appology for the freedom of expressing your sentiments. I view you in the light of a daughter and shall always feel bound to you for your Love and attachment to my dear daughter, as well as for your affection towards Caroline.
Beleive me always your Friend
Abigail Adams.


Title: To John Adams from William Stephens Smith, 22 March 1814
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir,
Washington City Tuesday 22d. march 1814

I have forwarded to you The Report of the Department of war on the subject of our military force the past Campaign
I now enclose you Documents from The Secretary of the navy, relating to the navy of the United States—both of which will put you in full possession of the present real state of these two important departments, of course will be thus far satisfactory to you—The House have been for several day’s past engaged on the yazoo question, in warm debate—I think it will be closed tomorrow, if so, I will give you the result of the question, by Thursday’s post—There will be a motion made, that when Congress adjourn, they adjourn to meet again at Philidelphia—this however, I consider, will only give a further spring to unpleasant sensations and the increase of party warmth without the object of the mover being answered, with respect to removal— I did not originally admire the move from Philadelphia to this place—I do not admire the spring of action of the movers of the present question—It will open a Wide door of Individual distress, and National expenditure, and sacrifice of public property—if carried into operation—There is nothing of importance floating here—It is said the Court martial at Albany on Genl. Hull, have closed their proceedings and adjourned—of Course, the proceedings are on the Way to The President under seal, and nothing further can be said on the Subject untill he speaks—
Wilkinson’s arest, was on the part of the War department only a pulse-feeling question; on the rumour reaching the army, it produced such a lively sensation, that the question has settled down to a Court of Enquiry—composed of General Izard—General Blank and Colonel King, the adjutant General of Hamptons Army—This will produce a violent War of posts between The Secretary of War and General Wilkinson, the former will press hard and the latter defend himself with vigour and ability; society will be more fretted than amused, it is a contest from which no possible good can arise to our Country but may possibly open wider the door of discontent, Censure, and perhaps contempt—
With respect, Love, and esteem for the family I am Dear Sir, / Your Obliged Humble Sert.
W.S. Smith


Title: From Mercy Otis Warren to Abigail Smith Adams, 22 March 1814
From: Warren, Mercy Otis
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

Plymouth, March 22d, 1814.—

I have myself, my dear Friend, been very unwell since I received your short but consolatory letter dated Feby. 21st. which inform’d me of your recovery from a languid state of health. You observ’d then it was only partial, I hope now it is complete.— Inform me also when you write again, of the health of Mr. Adams.— I regret much for him the privation of sight— it is a rich blessing at all periods of time, nor do we feel the want of such an enjoyment has in advanced age, than in younger life.— We want such a resource when treading down the declivity of time; when our old associates are dropping off and the remnant that are left, bending towards the tomb, are we not more solicitous to find a few with whom we once conversed, and who with us are treading fast to the closing scene, when I hope we shall be introduced to the acquintance of Saints and Angels, and the Spirits of just men made perfect.—
May we receive those comdations on our way which “soften & refine the Soul for Heaven.”—
You discuss in yours on the magnificent scenes which are about toe open on our world when we are just going to leave it.— May they open upon our surviving Children in a manner more conducive to individual, public and private happiness than is anticipated by some!
Will you permit me to ask if you have recently had any private Letters from your Son abroad, engaged in a business honorable to himself and beneficial to his Country— and may his father’s eyes be so far restored as to be able to read the intelligence from the hand of John Quincy Adams, that he has been an Agent in the restoration of peace, happines & the prospect of lasting freedom to the United States of America— an object which has occupied so much of the time, patience, and virtuous struggles of my best friend in the grave and of yours continued by your side unto this day.—
I find in my old age a sad variety of that sort of society which was tend me in a rich abundance in younger life.— I  sigh for my eyes, that I might re-peruse the delightful communications of my very worthy friends, that I might also look back through the “sellers of night” on the labours of the dead, who yet speak instruction to succeeding generations.— But Feared read— yet I think I do not murmur— I see the light of the Sun— and see a glimpse of its author in the wonders of nature and providence.— I have recollection— I have hope— blessings indeed! for which gratitude is or ought to be ever awake.— Is not this enough, when near the verge of this vale of tears?— Tell me, my friend, if I am mistaken— tell me anything you please that your active mind suggests.— Whatever comes from your hand and heart you know is acceptable to mine.—
I flatter myself that I shall again participate in the pleasure of reading many of your Letters from Petersburg. I hope also to hear of the restoration of health and eyes to your good husband so far as that he may be able to tell me of it himself.—
You never informed me Madam, whether you found that Letter in which yoru Son mentioned Madam de Stael— I had then never heard of that Lady— since which I have seen some of her writings which have awakened in me a curiosity to hear more about her.—
My Children thank you for your friendly sympathy in this day of their affliction— myself, their Son Winslow and my Son now with me have persuaided with them to go on to Boston to visit their daughter & their pleasant Children at Cambridge. I hope they will recover some degree of health & spirits by this little jaunt. It is a great thing in sever trials to learn to morn aright. Neither to deprive the chastening of the Lord nor to faint when rebuked of him.— May we all learn this! learn “to  in his hand & know no will hit his.”—
Were we all together we should unite in regard to you and yours:— Not forgetting Catherine and Susan, who I doubt not will remember so long as we stand when upon the same ground, / Yr affecte. Friend
M Warren


Title: From Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody to Abigail Smith Adams, 26 March 1814
From: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

Atkinson March 26th  1814

Yesterdays Mail, My Dear Sister, conveyed your Letter safe to me, with the two Bills—I do not so much think of what I want, as what I can best do without,—We all have duties, & calls, when it might not be proper for the right hand, to know what the left doth, & therefore, I like to have some property subject to no enquiry—you know I said, I wished to keep my property as equal for the two, as I could—& what I remitted, might be considered as Abby’s part towards building the Barn—But I submit to the reasons of my elder Sister, who knows best what is right, & is always seeking Opportunities where she can most oblige—And as you live nearer to Mr Cutter, he will apply to you, &  you will give him directions, how, & what he ought to do—If he is a provident industrious man, I cannot see what is the reason why he has been so delinquent in paying the rent—for what he had to sell never was higher, provisions of every kind fetch a great price.—both last year, & this is worse for the Buyer—I should my Sister, mentioned to you Mr Peabody’s difficulties last winter, but I thought your own sickness, & cares were too much for you, & I could not bear to cause one Sigh for me, though I am very sensible it is a great relief to have some kind, interested friend, to whom we can unreservedly impart our Troubles—& I cannot say, but I have felt its value, by the want—for I have not one here, but Abby, & she was so much affected by my own sickness, that I  dare not communiate to her, Mr Peabody’s difficulties—& she did not know when she wrote for me to her Brother, that our trouble was immediate, only apprehended—His prompt assistance gave my mind great relief—for I thought in his hands, the House would be an asylum for us all—& we embraced the first moment to have it recorded—we have been waiting in hopes to find a safe, private hand, by which to convey it to him— & his Sister has made him six shirts, which I wish he had, for they are warmer than what he has—If I had not been sick they would have been done long ago—Mr Shaws, female literary Friend I see, has been plunged into the Vortex of newspapers Controversy, but not much to the credit of the Rev. Dr., I believe the public will think—I suppose he thought to take advantage of her Sex, & native timidity, & affright her into any concession his prerogative demanded, but thanks to right Intentions, & true magnanimity of Soul, “the righteous are as bold as a Lion”—&  he will have to hide himself again under his own dark Covert—I hate meaness, & literary plaigiary is the lowest—To attempt to rob filial Piety, of her well earned Honours, & to place the Laurels upon his own Brow, is too much for any man, & especially unworthy in a minister of the Gospel—
Abby thanks you for your kind Invitation & no doubt would be happy to visit you in the way  you proposed—But I know not when it can be—Her settlement in life is now thrown into a more precarious Situation than ever—It now seems to be under the particular allotment of Providence & no human foresight can tell when, or where it will be—Commerce was a buisness entered upon by her Friend, only because he had injured his Eyes, so that he could not Study, & to been idle would have made him miserable—But the uncertainty of Trade, & Stock rising, & falling so suddenly made it unfavourable for a young man, & as his Eyes grew better, he thought it most expedient for him to return to his favourite Object, the Study of Divinity—And he is now pursuing that, under the direction of Mr  his minister in Salem—If persons have large property of their own, I should have no Objection to their entering into the Sacred Office but so many hardships, & trials await them, that it is enough to make them tremble if they have not & poor Girl, she has always said, she should not be a good ministers wife— But the Dye seems to be cast—And I pray Heaven it may be for good—WE are shortsighted mortals, & can only do what appears right at the moment—
If we could chuse for our Children, who could ensure us, lasting riches, or Happiness—
I was glad to hear you were able to attend publick worship—I intended going that Day, but the wet walking prevented—Then perhaps, our grateful acknowledgements would have asscended together to the throne of Mercy, for our recovery from a distressing Sickness
But Time, nor place is as nothing—It is the effusions of Gratitude, of an heart deeply affected with a sense of unmerited favours that can offer acceptable Sacrifice—
It is very sickly in Haverhill, & has been in the Vicinity—some believe it the spotted fever—four persons were buried last week—Three Sisters in different Houses, & one Brother in Law—
Mrs Adams, will recollect her, that was Meriam Leach—She, & her Husband were ill but a few days—This Town has yet been favoured with remarkable health—Mr Peabody has not been called to attend one funeral this winter—Mrs Rose, has been very ill with a lung fever, but is better—She will not be able to get out of her room, before she expects a confinement She has faint turns, I feel anxious for her—She is a good woman—
Burn this, from your Affectionate
E P—


Title: To John Adams from William Stephens Smith, 1 April 1814
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Adams, John

Dr. Sir—
Washington City April 1st. 1814

Yesterday mr. Eppes chairman of the Committee of Way’s and means, brought in a bill to change the mode of taxation from the capacity of Stills to the quantity distilled eight Cents pr. Gallon on Spirits distilled from domestick materials and 12 Cents on spirits from foreign materials
I think this will create serious debates amongst the leaders of the majority, it is supposed this change will increase the national income two millions of Dollars,
I believe the administration are aware that the loan cannot be filled, money must be had, this no doubt is the cause of the change, in addition to what I mentioned in my letter of yesterday, relative to the message sent by The President to the two houses of Congress
I enclose you a printed Copy.
In consequence of the death of The Honble. John Dawason Member of Congress from Virginia the house adjourned at 1/2 past 11. aClock. The Funeral is to be attended at 3. by The Senate and House of Representatives from The City Hotel—no business of course done in the House to-day—
Yours, most respectfully
W. S. Smith


Title: From William Stephens Smith to Abigail Smith Adams, 2 April 1814
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

My dear Madam—
Washington City April 2d. 1814

I have your letter of the 22d. of march, and am much gratified that my enquiries and communications relative to Mr. De Wint meet wit your approbation—you will no doubt observe by my last letter to my dear Caroline, that ultimately my Ideas fully correspond with your own, and thinking that I was hard with the young man, I softened my letter, and withdrew from that stern position that I had seemingly taken, to the exclusion of your and my daughters opinion—so far in your estimation I shall be considered correct.
I bow with respect to your declaration of rights to maintain the supremacy of the Ladies,  as to the previous question— but here I am innocent, I never have nor can I now interfere with the rights of ladies—when I said in my first letter, not sent to the Gentlemen tho’ at the time intended for him that I thought he should have put the previous question, this originated from his asking my Consent to his marrying my Daughter—what I considered the necessary previous question was whether I would consent to his Visiting the Lady, with the declared honorable object he had in view.
Now My dear Madam I think I have got pretty well out of this question thus far—do let me hear from you With love to my dear Caroline I am yours sinerly
W. S. Smith


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to George Washington Adams, 9 April 1814
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, George Washington

Dear George
Quincy April 9th 1814

I received your importent Letter so clearly exprest that for some time I was not able to define the true meaning of it. with the assistance of cousin Caroline, I finally discovered that you have a peice to speak at the approaching exhibition and that you thought the coat you had, was too short to appear in, and that the piece you had to deliver, would appear much better delivered in a more appropriate dress.
If the character is that of a human Senator: it is probable that something may depend upon dress, but if the orator displays his own tallents to advantage, I presume the Audience will be so attentive to him, as not to regard the length, or shortness of the coat, a new coat at this day is a very serious matter for which I am not prepared, by having my tailoress engaged, or any thing to make it of, a new pr of pantaloons I design for you, and if you could come over some day this week so as to be measured for them: you could return the next morning.
I will be much obliged to Mrs Premble if she will let John try on his Nankeen pantaloons, & see if they are large enough, or if he will want a new pr for the occasion, if so he may come with you, but you must return in the morning—
Your Uncle has been sick more than a fortnight and is not yet out of his room. Susan is confined with a lung fever, and the Man we hierd last weeke for a Gardner was taken with a pleurisy fever on fast day— and is confined to his Bed so that as usual we have a Hospital— your affectionate grandmother

A AI have found a pr of overalls pantaloons which I can measure by so that you need not be at the trouble of coming