Title: From John Adams to Alexander Bryan Johnson, 14 December 1822
From: Adams, John
To: Johnson, Alexander Bryan

					Dear Sir
					Quincy December 14th. 1822

				I have received your favor of the 7th. instant. If I agree with you that human knowledge ceases, where Metaphysics commence I must acknowledge that I am indebted to Metaphysics for the knowledge of this Truth after reading Lock and Malbranche Clark & Leibnitz Berckley & Hume, Condilac & Baxter Stuart & Brown have produced a pretty clear conviction of it—Your propensity to writing perhaps prevents you from having as many Writs as you wish—I am pretty well informed that you have Business as a Lawyer and might have more, if you were more easily and constantly to be found; There is hardly a Poet to be found, on record who has not been made a Poet by Grief mortification poverty & hunger and I never knew a lawyer who became eminent in his Profession without the stimulus of want You are too happy to be a Laborious Lawyer with a lovely Wife and fine Children, Venerable Parents, and an Independent fortune? what motive can you have to be a drudging pack horse as I have been, and as your Uncle J. Q. A. has been, and is still?If my life and writings should ever be worth enquiring for, I know not what way any one can take to persue the investigations; I have distroyed no papers but anonymous letters and letters from Mad-Men. I shall leave them all my papers entire, I hope  but the huge mass of them will present such a bundle of weakness and error & petulance that I shudder at the thought of them. but I have one consolation that they will present no crimes, more than the Emperor Napoleon says he committedLove to all the family, we are all well / as is Excepting the incureable distemper / of old age, your affectionate / Grand Father

					John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 14 December 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					14-31 Dec. 1822

				14th December. We were all so exhausted that we determined to keep quiet all day at home. Received a Note from a Milliner requesting I would go and look at his things, this is a thing which has happened several times—Am I so much in vogue? I am solicited to take great care of myself this Winter and not to get sick, Are People afraid of closed doors again? What a hollow hearted World How much I am obliged by their anxiety, George breakfasted with Mr Coso dined with Mr Tayloe where he met with Mr John Randolph who would not talk to the great disappointment of the family—It would seem that he is expected to prate like some pretty lessoned Magpie for the diversion of the Idle and the Curious—but so it is people will look for that they have been used to and his buffooneries are not easily forgotten—Evening alone.15th So unwell could not go to Church, Mary went twice as well as George and Mr A who were not much pleased with Mr McIlvaine the Chaplain of the Senate who gave them a highly drawn sketch of the Infernal Regions with all its  blazing & undying fires. In the Evening Mrs & Miss Forrest and Mrs Smith came over to sit with us and Mr Laborie afterwards sat about an hour as full of “espièglerie” as ever—was quite ill all day.16th Weather intolerable—could not go out, after dinner it cleared up and we went to hear Mr Watters Lectures on Poetry and Belles Letters a farrago of insanity extravagance so like insanity it was scarcely possible to conceal the compassionate pity I felt towards the author—Is not this age run mad? What is modern Poetry? a chaos of crude undigested thoughts preposterously metaphysical and roaring so far beyond the real conception of mortals belonging to this terraqueous globe that the mind is carried out of itself and we unconsciously admire because we are sensible we cannot understand—All that is vast & mighty pleases the imagination however obscure for the human mind or spirit being an emanation of the Deity ever seeks a something beyond or rather above its present limited sphere and all that has a tendency to exalt or to elevate us from mere grovelling matter produces sensations of delight independent of judgement or reason and an exquisite sensation of pleasure for which we do not wish or desire to account. This poor man will meet with no success here—We have too much of eloquence and Our Congress men neither like rivals or instructions. About twenty nine Persons there.17th Went out and paid a number of visits extending from the Capitol Hill to Halorama where I had a very pleasant conversation with Mrs Decatur. In the evening had a large party, Mr & Mrs Lloyd did me the honour to come contrary to all my expectations at which I was very much flattered, thirteen Senators graced my rooms, a thing to notice in these times—The Girls danced to the Piano and it was altogether, pleasant. They left us very early—I was much pleased with Mrs Ingham she has so much of the Quaker simplicity with as much apparent candour in her smile & manner that she caught my fancy at first sight. Mrs Findlay the wife of the late Governor of Pennsylvania is a very respectable  & agreeable Woman—Mrs Morgan has more of Tow about her whose manners are more fashionably courteous & more refined she is from New York and has a pretty daughter with her just out of school and who wants a little training.18th Quite sick all day obliged to muse for tomorrow. Mrs Smith called to see me—Evening alone—Mr A. wrote an answer to Mr Clay.19th A party at dinner Mr Calhoun Mr Pedersen Mr Rogers Mr Edwards of Illinois Mr D P Cook Genl Sam Smith Mr Eustis Mr Cushman Mr Walker Mr Rodney Mr Southard Mr Morgan Judge White Mr Woodson Mr Goran Mr Tucker—The Gentlemen enjoyed themselves apparently every much and tasted the strength of Mr A’s old Madeira—which was not found wanting by the merriment it produced. To get through a dinner without clashing in some way or other in these boisterous times is a difficult matter. All are partizans and each warm for his friend though perhaps not an enemy to his opponent but it is hard with interests so divided to steer clear of offence. We found in this instance that “wine maketh the heart glad” and none were inclined to wrath—They left us at half past nine—Mr Rodney is in very bad health he is going to Buenos Ayres as Minister—The day was sultry.20th. Mr Wyer called on me, he looks very badly and is in great distress. In the Evening we went to Mrs. Pleasonton’s the weather was so bad she was disappointed of half her company—I there met Mrs Woodcock and Mrs Blackledge the latter a very pleasing little Woman with whom I had some Chat. She is from North Carolina and insisted on it that the Northerns were not so sociable as the Southerns which I endeavoured to make her believe was because she was not sufficiently acquainted with them. Mrs Brown & I are very great friends—Mr B’s health is very bad he was not out last night. Mr Cambreleng said he thought it would be a great advantage to Mr Duffy to lose his Arm as an Orator for he made so bad a use of it that it was almost a ridiculous habit. The young Ladies danced—Mr Hill told me that I must not be sick as Mrs Hill would cry. Is not the adulation of the world cruelly dangerous even when we know what it means?21st. Remained at home until one o’clock then went out to pay visits and saw Mrs Eustis who is much afflicted by the death of two or three of her relations. She looks poorly and will not go out. The vice President was present part of the time; when he went out Mrs E said her residence was rendered very disagreable as though he was what may be termed sober yet his brain was constantly muddled by his repeated draughts of Whiskey and water which was a perpetual inducement to stay at the house and of course always in the room where the ladies receive their visits—In the Evening we were visited by the Baron Maltitz Mr Laborie  & Col Dwight; Laborie came to tell me that a disagreable circumstance had occurred between the Russians and the French in consequence of the latter retaining a house which had been engaged by the former who after patiently waiting a fortnight having no use of any part of it but the bed room and being obliged to go and get their meals at an Eating house. The Baron informed the Count that he must remove in two days to which the Count was obliged to agree. Baron Maltitz is about to be married to Miss Eliza Livingston the daughter of John R Livingston of New York Several Weddings are likely to take place among the Corps Diplomatique and our Ladies a sign that our foreign relations are on a very peaceable footing.22d Went to the Capitol and heard Mr Breckenridge a pupil of Dr Mason’s and Chaplain of the HR. His discourse was good and his manner impressive—The House was not crowded and I saw but few persons whom I knew—Mr Wilmot Mr Baker Mr Johnson & Dr Huntt called to see us and Mr A. went to Georgetown and returned a number of visits—We passed the Evening alone Mary went to Church with Miss Forrest—Count de Minon came to see Mr Adams concerning an ettiquette question which has arisen among the foreign Ministers who are invited to dine at the Presidents on Tuesday with the Mexican Minister. It has always been customary for a Minister newly arrived to sit at the President’s right hand. This Mr Canning objected to and refused to dine there unless that seat was assigned to him. The President would not give up the point and intimated to Mr C. that he should take no offence by his declining the invitation which Mr C accordingly did and made many efforts to induce the other branches of the Corps to do the same—In the first instance they were all so intimidated that they resolved not to go and came to consult Mr A on the subject who told them they might act as they thought most prudent themselves without any apprehension of offending as the P. wished to make it agreable to them in any way. Upon which they all declined apparently yet without sending their excuses.23d At home all the morning excepting about an hour when I went and paid some visits In the Evening a great Ball at Mr Canning’s which was very brilliantly and well attended Mr A after having given notice to the President that the Corps Diplomatique declined dining with him was informed by them that they had decided to accept the invitation to which Mr A assented though he knew that the President had filled his Table—The pride of the Gentlemen was touched and they redeemed their National honour by daring to act for themselves and proved they had been subdued not conquered—They are all to dine with us on Friday but Mr C. has stipulated for my hand which was immediately agreed to as we can give no rank therefore they settle it among themselves—It is I suppose a trick to show Mr C’s dislike to the acknowledgement by Our Government of the South Americans a thing which the British in good policy ought to have done long since—And these little ridiculous punctilios are only intended to display the power England possesses over the poor prostrated nations of Europe. The Russians fortunately heard of the death of the Emperor Infant Nephew which put them out of their dilemma—We returned at about eleven well satisfied with our amusement.24th Mr A went to the Presidents and informed him that the foreigners would dine with him The P said he thought they had all declined and he had filled their places but that he would lengthen his table and that would settle the difficulty—Mr A dined there and in the Evening we had a party of one hundred and thirty odd people all very sociable and good humoured—The young ladies danced, played, sung and were very merry—Neither of my Sisters attended—The famous belles Miss Ridgely & Miss Colman honoured me with their Company and like all old women I was satisfied that the beauties of my day were of a much higher order—Mr Canning was not here of course nor the Russians, having declined the Presidents invitation25th This day Charles arrived from Boston just as we were preparing for company at Dinner He was very much fatigued and I found much grown and altered in face—The resemblance to his Father is not so striking as it was and he is now thought more like me Mr & Mrs Lloyd of Boston Dr Mease Col Dwight Mr Cambreleng Dr Cushman Mr Cook Mr & Mrs Frye & son Johnson Hellen and my own family made up the party with Mr Tracy. Mr & Mrs Smith declined and Dr & Mrs Eustis whom I had asked to meet Mrs Lloyd. The only striking circumstance of the day was the meeting of Mr Adams with his two Classmates Mr Lloyd & Mr Carlinian—The Evening was spent in a round game for the amusement of the young People This was the most social Christmas I have passed for many years—that is more free from26th On Tuesday Count de Minon invited us to a Ball at his House into which he had not moved I therefore thought it might be a joke but this morning he came again to ask us and we engaged to go. we therefore made our preparations and went leaving Charles at home who was too much fatigued for dancing—Mr Adams George and myself attended and I was really surprised to see how comfortably they had arranged it considering they only moved in the morning—It was a very large party and more animated than common on account of the shortness of the invitation and the style of the mansion—Mr Roqueforte a Gentleman from Columbia was introduced to me he is one of the most sprightly animated beings I ever met. He gave me some account of Lima particularly the habits and customs of the Lima ladies. He says it is a perpetual Masquerade the Costume of the Females is calculated to conceal and encourage intrigue they always appear in black and their faces so covered as to display only one eye thus they never can be known much severity is exercised towards single women but married Ladies have unbounded license—Mrs Colden of N York informed me she was very intimate with Mrs Adams who used to take much notice of her when a Girl—We returned home late Mr A having engaged Mr Canning in a Game of Chess in which my good husband was defeated.27th We had this day a great diplomatic dinner which passed over much better than I anticipated. Mr Canning led me to the Table according to Ettiquette and the Mexican sat on my left hand a most uncomfortable honor as I could not speak to him not knowing a word of his language. The poor man looked quite bewildered. Mr Canning conversed very agreably during dinner and repeated some lines which he had seen of Lord Byron’s very little honourable to his Lordship’s heart though they may indicate strong native genius. Such genius becomes a curse to the possessor and to mankind at large when it is used to bad purpose. Mr C says he is engaged in a publication in England of a very bad character and of a most blasphemous nature which will prevent his Lordship from coming to this country as is at present expected. After dinner Mr A—— through the medium of the interpreter asked the Mexican Minister if he had seen the city he answered he had been round what would be a city when our Grandchildren were grown—The French were a little peevish in consequence of some quarrel among themselves and the Russians were almost as silent as the Mexicans though not from the same cause.28th Went to dine at Mrs Decaturs although it snowed heavily and I was not well—In this Country I am conscious that people put themselves to great expence and frequently to great inconvenience to make such entertainments and I make it a point not to disappoint. The Secretary of War the Secretary of the Navy and Lady and Mr Canning and suite were the only guests beside our selves and the entertainment was very elegant displaying all the beautiful Plate which was presented to her husband as tributes of National approbation I will not say gratitude Republicks acknowledge not the sentiment—Passed the day very pleasantly—Mr Calhoun gave us some pretty Indian Romances which would cut a figure in the hands of Chateaubriand—Mr A has become too phlegmatic to be caught by tinsels John arrived in good health as lively and animated as ever.29th Went to Church at Mr Baker’s and heard a most excellent discourse—his manner is very heavy and uninteresting but his Sermons possess great merit—The young men possess great merit went to the Capitol and heard a violent and threatening Sermon from Mr McIlvaine full of bitter denunciations & punishment—having little hope for either sinner or penitent. It often surprizes me that those who are enjoying every blessing that a great and merciful God has ever crowded upon his people should draw such singular influences and reject in words that which they so cordially cherish in deeds. It is true our Clergy do deprive themselves of some of what we term the pleasures of this life but they evidently make up for these deficiencies by freely indulging in all those which they have the privilege of enjoying—When I hear young men of three or four and twenty (not exempted from the frailties of the flesh and exposed like the rest of mankind to the all powerful influence of the Passions which are the worst Devils I believe we have to contend with) bellowing forth these terrible doctrines I am ill natured enough to fancy that half the violence is attributable to the restraints imposed upon themselves which are unpleasant to the pride and vain glory of youth however necessary to their welfare but I have so often before made similar remarks you must be weary of them. Evening at home alone with the family.30th Received a number of visits among whom was Mrs Johnson of Louisiana who thought proper to waive ettiquette and make the visit—There is but one Lady left now and I hope she may adhere to her present plan as her husband is an inflexible enemy of Mr A. She is said to be a remarkably fine woman a niece of Gov Preston’s of Virginia—We are so quiet in Congress that we should not know they were sitting did we not meet the Members in the Evening occasionally—John Randolph says he has returned a new man that he has brought back nothing but a Hull—If there ever was a kernel it has long since been so withered for want of some fertilizing moisture it would scarcely be said to live—His aboriginal blood has burnt so fiercely that his heart is parched and all intercourse seems stopt between it and the brain. His silence is however a proof that he has acquired some discretion a quality I always supposed quite beyond his reach, which gives hopes for future amendment on other points. Went out & payed a round of visits—In the evening Mr D P Cook & Mr Edwards of Connt: took tea with us—They left us early.31st: Went with Mrs Frye to Mr King’s to whom she is sitting for her portrait which promises to be very very like—He is amusing in conversation but is apt to introduce religious topics with so much levity and disrespect that I took the liberty of telling him he had better confine himself to subjects which he understood—This was no doubt impertinent but I made it a principle early in life and I have adhered to it whenever I have been able to exert authority never to suffer in my presence—Philosophers may say that by this means I shut my eyes to the truth—Be it so. on this subject I want nothing better than my own conviction and would not change my opinion with the wisest or greatest man dead or living—In the evening we had a large party upwards of a hundred and as it was the last day of the old year—I had the band of Musick They kept it up merrilly until near twelve o’clock. Mrs Holmes the Senators’ Lady from Maine condescended to come with her daughter—As Capt Partridge delivered a lecture on the Battle of Waterloo we had but few Members of Congress. The subject is very interesting and some Gentlemen who came from thence spoke highly of the performance.


Title: From John Adams to Alexander Bryan Johnson, 16 December 1822
From: Adams, John
To: Johnson, Alexander Bryan

Dear Sir.
Quincy December 16th. 1822.

I have received your favor of the 7th. If I agree with you, that human knowledge ceases where Metaphysics commence, I must acknowledge that I am indebted to Metaphysics for the knowledge of this truth, After reading Lock and Malbranch, Clarke and Leibnitz, Berckley and Hume, Condilac and Baxter, Stuart & Brown have produced a pritty clear conviction of it.
Your propensity to writing perhaps prevents you from having as many Writs as you wish. I am pritty well informed that you have business as a Lawyer, and might have more, if you were more easily, and constantly to be found.—There is hardly a Poet to be found on record—who has not been made a poet by grief, mortification, Poverty and hunger, and I never knew a Lawyer—who became eminent in his profession without the stimulus of want. You are too happy to be a laborious Lawyer with a lovely Wife, and fine Children, Venerable Parents and an Independent fortune! What motive can you have to be a drudging pack Horse, as I have been, and as your Uncle J. Q. A. has been, and is still.—
If my life and writings should ever be worth enquiring for, I know not what way, any one can take to persue the investigations. I have distroyed no papers but anonymous letters, and letters from Mad-Men; I shall leave all my papers entire, I hope; but the huge Mass of them will present such a bundle of weakness and errour, and petulance that I shudder at the thought of them; But I have one consolation that they will present no crimes, more than the Emperour Napoleon says he committed.
Love to all the Family, we are all well, as is; excepting the incurable distemper old age; your affectionate / Grand Father
John Adams
P.S. I hope neither this letter, nor yours, are last words


Title: From John Adams to George Washington Adams, 17 December 1822
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, George Washington

Dear George
Quincy December 17th. 1822.

yours of the 9th. is received, you do not give me any account of your Studies as formerly—Mr. Smith and your Aunt have been very fortunate in escaping the Plague at Pensacola, please to give my love to them.
I hope the Mexican Ambassador and his eight Gentlemen companions have brought with them plenty of Milled dollars, and Mexican Bullion, and after teaching our Merchants and Manufacturers the means and method of purchasing; and will teach you the pronounciation and the critical elegance of the Spanish Language; you must treat them with cerimonious politeness and cordial respect, taking great care not to offend their lofty pride.—
I am anxious for the health and Spirits of Mr Randolph which are unfavorably reported here; pray give me notice of his first appearance in public. Have you seen the Albany sympathy with the Greeks, the Spirit is noble, but will it not embarrass the Government of the Union.
you will not expect news, from your affectionate / Grand father
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 17 December 1822
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

my Dear Daughter
Quincy 17th. December. 1822.

With high spirits I received the hand writing and the journal of the 1st. of this Month. I opened gay hopes before me for the Winter I rejoice in the recovery of you health, and to hear of the good health of you all—
Mr. Adams, his Lady and Son appear to enjoy a serene and patient tranquility under the pelting of this pitiless Storm of political hail the thunder is not loud, and the Lightning only the slight coruscations which we call heat Lightning. The newspapers are spreading his Name, and Fame far and wide so that if his writings and actions had not already assured him of immortality even these Ephemeral foliages would have done it.—
 You say nothing of my friend Mr. John Randolph, I am anxious for his health and Spirits, which it is rumoured are not so good, as I wish them, for I hoped to receive a few more of his compliments, to admire more of his uncommon figures of Rhetorick before either of us depart from this region of Oratory politicks and War.
A Man drawn by four Horses, or a Carriage drawn by eight to the four Cardinal points of the Compass, are an admirable Hieroglyphick of our approaching Presidential Election I sometimes think that we might place a feather on the pinnacle of a steeple in a calm time and wait the springing of a wind and then observe with a Telescope to which point the feather is wafted whether to the East, West, North, or South.—I believe Mr. Monroe has had a happier Administration than any that preceeded him; And I fear that no future President will enjoy such another—
I wish you much gaiety and Social enjoyment I shall vegetate in solitude, but if I can get any–body to read to me, I shall enjoy as much as any of you—I am much at my ease on the Subject of all Elections and the stoicks immota tranquillitas shall be my Motto—
We are all well, and send love to you, and yours / Your affectionate Father
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 25 December 1822
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

My Dear Daughter
Quincy December 25th. 1822—

Your Journal beginning the third of the month has given me great pleasure. You are much to be envied and much to be pitied; such a variety of good Company is very desirable, but so much cerimoney and such fatigues must be rather burdensome.—
We have received this morning the annunciation of Mr. Clays “GREAT UNKNOWN VOLUME OF GHENTISH HISTORY” It will appear I presume at least as soon as the Phrophesies of Enoch or the Phrygian Hierophant  will be fullfilled, this is rather more profound politicks than Mr Russells. Mr. Adams’s remarks upon it are perfect, when a great genius arises in the world all the dunces unite in a conspiracy against him; when a man of pure integrity arrises all the knaves surround him and pelt him with stones but hitherto the sheild of Hercules and Achilles united have warded off all their weapons.—It requires not Georges searching Wine, nor the great searcher of hearts, Chámpaigne, or Burgundy to bring forth to light the hidden motives of Mr. Russell, or Mr. Clay—
The letter of Mr Jefferson is very much admired, mine is criticised and censured, the good old Ladies wonder that Mr Adams did not mention the hopes of a future State among the consolations of old Age. And so do I, for I had at the point of my pen the raptures of Cato  in Tullys old age, on his near prospect of seeing his dear Son, and the ancient Sages and heroes in a future state, I wonder also that I did not mention Fontenells delight in his asparagus and oil. And Theophrastus’s regret at going out of the World at a hundred and fifteen when he had just learned how to live in it.—I wish you had explained to me the unpleasant news, you communicated to your Sister—
There is in the old Colony memorial a paper which I wish Mr. Adams would subscribe for, A Fable of the Dog and the Turtle. The mastiff whether from Labradore or Newfoundland has laid all the Turtles sprawling on their backs, wiggling and twisting with head tail and Claws—
I shall claim your promis of a journal through the Winter, but whether you perform it or not, I will be / your affectionate Father
John Adams
PS. I have had laid at the door of your Husband a Child christianed by the name of the Quincy Classical Academy to which in due time he will become a nursing Father, and you a Nursing Mother.—P.S. Second—Two years hence, when Mr A—— will be disgraced and turned out of Office at Washington, he will be return to Massachusetts; and if Governor Brooks should resign, as he will, for he has long wished it, Mr A. will be teazed to be Governour, and become the object of as much Newspaper flickerings as ever. You must not expect to be ever at peace till you return peremptorily to private life, and then you will be as much flattered as I am—

J. A.


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 29 December 1822
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

My Dear Daughter.
Quincy December 29th. 1822

I have received your last Journal and found it entertaining though you seem to think so little of it; I have infinitely less to write to you, Though you seem to think your journal infinitely little, nevertheless as our friend Shaw is with me, and willing to write for me, I will gossip with you a little.—
The Newspapers of this part of the World are blazing with republications of Mr. Adams’s early writings, The Essex Register The manufacturers Journal of Providence, The Boston Chronical, are full of his Works, All the other Boston papers that I see have something to say upon the subject. They are giving more universal circulation to his Works than ever was given in America to those of Dr. Frankline. It is remarkable that nothing is said of the literary Character of any other candidate I have never seen a single page from the pen of one of them. The People of America have heretofore boasted of the learning, The taste the science of their Jefferson, and their Madison, but now they seem to disregard all such Talents acquirements or accomplishments. It is most certain that Mr. A—has done more honour to America; In Europe, than any American Ambassador she ever sent to Europe excepting Dr. Frankline, Some of his writings have been published and applauded in England France and Germany. His literary Character has been conspicuous in America for thirty years. His Publicola and Columbus attracted the attention of General Washington thirty years ago and were the cause of his Mission to Holland.—It is astonishing to see how little of his history and writings have been known till lately.—If the House of Representatives should address the President for copies of his public letters for thirty years they would exhibit the best history of that period. And what more can a Hermit say than that he is your affectionate Father
John Adams


Title: From Joseph Hopkinson to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 1 January 1823
From: Hopkinson, Joseph
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					My dear Madam—
					Philad: Jany. 1. 1823

				A few days ago there arrived at this port of Philadelphia, in a packet from Alexandria, a certain box, directed to me; which, when opened, was found to contain a very fine head, in excellent order—As no letter accompanied the box, or was received by any other Conveyance, the head was left to speak for itself; and inform from whence it came, and to what it was destined. The recollection of a conversation with you on the subject of a certain head has left me no doubt as to whom I should address myself to acknowledge the receipt of this valuable acquisition to the Penna. Academy of the Fine Arts—It is duly and honourably deposited in the Hall of Great men; and I shall give a special caution to its companions to be civil, & make no unprovoked attacks upon it, as it has a marvellous faculty of breaking any head that comes too roughly against it—We are exceedingly gratified by the kind & flattering manner in which you speak of your visit to Bordentown—The plainness and simplicity of every thing there; the entire absence of all ceremony, and, I can truly add, the absolute verity and sincerity which attended your welcome, must  come somewhat into contrast with the dazzling parade; studied etiquette and heartless attentions that which you are now surrounded—As you have a heart to receive and enjoy the homelier round of village amusements, and the means and disposition to enliven and enlarge them, we look to the next Summer for a longer Visit—This faculty of descending does not belong to every great lady; tho I think those who have it not are much to be pitied—Now we are Speaking of Bordentown, let me beg you to consider, for a moment, that you and I are sitting, with or without a bright moon, as you please, on the Piazza looking into the garden, in familiar chat. In such circumstances one may say many things which it would be by no means proper to write the Second Lady of the Republick, that “shal’t be first hereafter”—I proceed thus—I think our friend Mr A–— is too fastidious and assured on a certain subject as interesting to the Country as to himself; and in relation to which his friends and the country have a right to a certain degree of co-operation from him. His conduct, seems to me, as it does to others, to be calculated to chill and depress the kind feelings and fair exertions of his friends They are discouraged when they see a total indifference assumed on his part; and the matter is not made better by the suggestion that it is impossible he can be really indifferent to the event but has too much pride & honesty to interfere in directing it—We answer that we do not desire Mr A–— should lend himself, or his name to any system of petty intrigue, or degrading machinations, either to injure his competitors or advance his own pretensions—We would not have him make corrupt bargains, or write, or procure to be written skulking letters or addresses—But, on the other hand, there is a just & honourable support and countenance he may give to his cause, & to those who maintain it perfectly consistent with the purest pride and delicacy, and of which none could Complain—He might communicate much information to be usefully employed—repelling attacks upon him; or in exhibiting his claims to advantage; but he seems to disdain any champion but himself; and to say and do nothing for himself until forced into the field by the malice or folly of some enemy—I may indeed say that he is not merely neutral on this subject, but rather shews a disposition to discourage any efforts in his behalf—Now, my dear Madam, all this won’t do—The Macbeth policy, “if chance will make me a King, why chance will crown me,” will not answer where little is left to chance or merit, but Kings are made by politicians & newspapers; and the man who sits down waiting to be crowned either by chance or just right will go bare-headed all his life—I do not mean that the world is more stupid or unjust than formerly; but we work with different instruments, and they must be used and resorted as well to maintain a just right, as to give colour to unfounded and impudent claims and pretensions—Now, there is our friend W—— with  warm dispositions and great ability to be useful on this occasion—His journal is daily gaining a decided influence and ascendancy; its circulation is spreading every where; it is read with encreasing avidity, & he has surprising skill in working up material. But, I believe, he thinks Mr A—— has rather shewn a disposition to check and discourage his exertions in this cause—It is an ungracious & weary task to serve another against his will; and no zeal and devotion can continue it long—But my speech is quite long enough for a piazza chat; and I want for your reply. The children say, “turn about is fair play,” especially in conversation; which otherwise is turned into haranguing—Mo. truly & respectfully / Your mo. Obedt Serv
					Jos. Hopkinson

					You will understand I would not dare to say or write half of the above to Mr A—— but you may do what you please with it—


Title: From John Adams to Alexander Bryan Johnson, 4 January 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Johnson, Alexander Bryan

my Dear Sir.
Quincy January 4th. 1823

Your letter of the 26th. December just now received, has thrown me into a kind of froliksome mixture of gaiety and gravity, which has raised my Spirits. I am glad you are so fond of Swift; I know of no Man who has exhibited stronger proofs of a sound rational mind, and profound information on one hand, or of wanton fun, on the other; even his indecent drollery is instructive, and even moral. Voltair is another such compound of Wisdom and folly, whose writings may be read, by prudent persons, with great pleasure and profit; They are vastly more improveing to me than the solemn pomposity of Hume & Gibbon.
I am very glad Abby always knows where to find you; I wish I always knew where to find myself.—
Your Albany Grecians have most unexpectedly draged me into the Newspapers, and in danger of being involved in an endless controversy, about the honour of making the loans in Holland, and about the honor of furnishing Robert Morris with funds for supporting his banking system’s and other financial opperations.— Your New York Knickerbockers may justly boast of the services rendered by their Mother Country to our Country more than she has ever had credit for, or ever will; for the two nations of England, and France, and the Anglomanies and Franckomanes in America, have conspired together to throw it into the back ground, and bury it in oblivion the friendship of Holland to the United States of America—
The letter Books of General and President Washington are sacred mysteries, not yet revealed to the World; whenever they shall be, I am persuaded they will do no dishonor or discredit to his Character; I shall never live to the time.—
What can the matter be? What a rattling and cackling and clattering & clickatis there is about the future Presidency, two years hence. There seems to be four wild horses tugging at the Presidents Chair, to draw it at the same time East, West, North, and South. It seems like a conclave of Cardinals intriguing for the Election of a Pope; every one under the influence of some Crowned Potentate. Or like the Election, of a King of Poland by Palatines, each in the pay of Russia, Austria, France, Prussia, or England. This System will last as long as God pleases—
you will think this letter the ravings of dotage, as indeed it is—. Now I have the last word, and you have the power, if you please, of getting the last word of this—
John Adams


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Joseph Hopkinson, 5 January 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Hopkinson, Joseph

Washington 5 January 1823

The safe arrival of the Bust has given me much pleasure, and its safe installation in the Academy of Arts and Sciences, which the head was formed to grace, assures to me of its permanent security—
To continue the very interesting conversation in the pretty porch of Bordeu, lighted only, as you say, by the softened rays of a pale but brilliant Moon, I must ask you to put yourself into the situation of your friends, that is, to imagine yourself surrounded by all the difficulties, the delicacies, and the niceties, the censure, the envy, the malice, and the severity which is incurred, and then to ask yourself, after due deliberation and reflection, what can be done with exact propriety? You will probably think me romantick, as you once perhaps thought me foolishly sentimental, when I say that I am confident that the people of a Nation, have more judgment and more justice than we are willing to give them credit for, and that however mischevous intrigue may be, it is frequently defeated by plain matter of fact and every day observation—We Women have no rule by which to form our experience but opinions but daily experience, and I believe if we were narrowly observed, our knowledge thus attained would be found, nine times of out of ten to be correct. Holding such an opinion, you will not be surprized that I should think it better to let matters take their course and quietly run all risks than by any exertions in our own cause to give occasion for attacks either against ourselves or our mutual friends. or our  friends who would be liable to all the ribaldry and abuse which is and will be showered on our devoted heads—That the eminent and powerful talents of our friends would contribute to success, is a fact not to be doubted; but in a situation on which the welfare of a vast and independent Nation be hangs, it is exceedingly difficult to divert oneself of local partialities and prejudices, and it is impossible to indulge them without committing injustice to the whole. Each Section of the Union must weigh alike in the general balance, and each interest must be an equivalent for the other.—How few are there my dear Sir, capable of acting thus dispassionately in the great cause; and is a man worthy of the dignity of such a Station who could act upon any other principle? As a Patriot, as an American, every man is bound to excel his abilities in the cause of his Country, and he requires no sanction but that of his own good and correct intentions for supporting those measures and those men who are best formed and calculated to further these great ends.—
You will perhaps laugh at the expression of these sentiments: They are my own, unmatured, and written as is usual with me from the impulse of the moment and without deliberation.—You will excuse them at present and expect a continuation in a few days in a better style and more to the purpose—In the mean time, accept the good wishes of your friend

L.C. Adams


Title: From John Adams to George Washington Adams, 12 January 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, George Washington

Dear George
Quincy January 12th. 1823—

I have received your favour of the 5th. instant full of wise reflections philosophical and moral. I am glad you think so much and so prudently. You must be very happy all of you together I wish I could be one of your family circle during the vacations notwithstanding all the silly trécasseries of the times. Your Fathers notice of General Smyth was brought to me last night and read to me by Mr. Shaw. The Richmond editor finds fault with as pretty a figure of speech as any of it. It is a good humoured oration satire upon the inconsiderate spirits now so lively running after South America, and the Greeks, St Domingo, Columbia River, If not upon the Missionary societies, spreading over the four quarters of the Globe. Our republic seems to feel like Genghis-Khan, where he said the whole globe is too small to satisfy the ambition of a great Man. Your Fathers character is illustrating far and wide, so that Posterity will be able to form a candid judgement of it, but the present age will not. Neither Virtue, nor talents, nor literary fame nor political merit, nor national services will decide the question. One single circumstance will turn the balance, That is—He is a New England Man.—
Poor New England, Thou hast been for two hundred years an object of jealousy and hatred to all the world. The Atheists, and Deists hate thee because thou art a believer. The Catholic world hate thee because thou art a protestant and what is worse in their sight, because thou art a puritanical protestant—The Church of England hate thee because thou art a dissenter. All the maretime powers of Europe are jealous of thee on account of the commercial manufacturing and naval resources. All Europe dislike thee because thou art a part of a Country which is an asylum for emigrants. Thy prudence, thy patience thy perseverance, and thy valour have hitherto preserved thee, under the protection of a kind providence for two centuries, and they will preserve you for two more, and I hope to all ages, but you will have as hard struggles for ages to come as you ever have had—
Your Fathers Printer has not been wise for his own interests. He should have sent two or three reams of his pamphlet to Boston—There have not been more than three or four copies of it in Boston—I have been obliged to give mine to Mr. Boylston. He begged it so importunately of me that I could not resist him, pray your Father to send me another—
Your Grand Father
John Adams
Postscript
Add to another the causes for the jealousy of N.E—because thou art not a Dutchman, a Scotchman, an Irishman a Quaker a Presbyterian or altogether orthodox.—


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 14 January 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

My Dear Daughter
Quincy January 14th. 1823.

Wonderful Woman, wife of a wonderful Man, How it is possible for you with your delicate Constitution and tender Health, to go through such a hurry of Visits, Dinners, and parties, Converse with such a variety, of Characters, masculine, and Feminine, and at the same time keep so particular a Journal. Yours of the 14th of December, up to the 30th. has arrived this Morning. your journal is a kind of necessary of Life to me, I long for it the whole week. Your Husband is a phænomenon eaqually strange and uncommon, I have ransacked my old imagination, and memory to find out some comparison to which he may be likened. The first that I thought of was, An Indian warriour suffering under the most cruel torments of his enemies and Singing.
I go to the place where my Father is gone, his soul shall rejoice in the Fame of his Son, but the Son of Aleknuma shall never Complain,
The second was Cornelious de Witt, suffering under the cruel torments of the rack, and firmely pronouncing
Justem et tenacem propositi virum
Non civium ardor prava jubentium
Nec vultus instantis tyranni
Mente quatit solida,
The world seems to conspire to put to the severest trial the patience and prudence, as well as integerity and fortitude of the Secretary of State, but he seems to go through it all, with as much ease, as he could bathe in Water Salt, or Fresh.—
You must be delighted with the society of your Sons; I wish I had a talisman by which I could live with you through the Session invisible to all, and unsuspected by all, but the family. I hope George is as good as he used to be. John and Charles are much improved in Mind, Manners, and in health. Charles read French to me most delightfully, but now I have nobody to read a word of it.—
I am your affectionate Father
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Alexander Bryan Johnson, 21 January 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Johnson, Alexander Bryan

my dear Sir
Quincy January 21st. 1823

Thanks for your favour of the 15th. and the Pamphlet inclosed. Lord Bollingbrook says and every body knows that nobility in China ascends when a Man is ennobled, he ennobles all his Ancestors but none of his Posterity and his Lordship pronounces this law a wise institution, and I believe it is, and much wiser than to ennoble a long list of puppies, and Butterflies to all future ages. In this Country the virtues of Ancestors are more likely to be concidered crimes in their decendants than pretentions to honours or emoluments—
I have written several letters to Albany, some have been printed, others I have not seen, for my part I receive, and consider compliments and vilifycations with sensations very much alike, both roll o’er my Cottage, and but sooth my sleep.—
Your speculations upon population is ingenious and required considerable thought, but for my part I leave this whole subject to the duty and inclinations of Mankind, and Womankind, to obey the precept increase and multiply—
If the people of the United States do not two years hence make a wise choice of President, it will not be for want of information, for there never was a free’r discussion before hand; I wish there had been as free a one from, 1799. to 1800. but the discussion was then all on one side perpetual reproach, and no contradiction, or explanation for both parties wished to get rid of the object, and both parties succeeded.—
News is not to be expected from hence / from your affectionate
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 22 January 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					22-29 Jan. 1823

				22d The day was very unpleasant and I remained at home until the Evening when we went to the Drawing Room notwithstanding that it poured with rain. To our great surprize however we found a number of Ladies and Gentlemen and quite a sociable Party. We remained there about an hour and were rejoiced to get safe home. The young men went to the Circus to see the wonderful Rider who has just arrived. He is said to be inimitably graceful and performs the most wonderful feats without saddle or bridle—The boys could not withstand the temptation of seeing him in preference to the formality of our Court.23d We had a large Party at dinner Gov Barbour Mr King of Al–a Mr Russ Mr Bigelow Mr McKeen Mr Cuthbert Mr Cannon Dr Jackson Mr Findlay Mr Mallory Mr McCarty and Mr Rochester and four disappointed Mr Harvey Mr Lincoln Mr Morrill & Mr Williams of Plumtree who for the last five years has regularly received an invitation but has not condescended to accept or decline I should most assuredly never have sent a third If I had been consulted. The Gentlemen left us early and thus was nothing remarkable in the conversation which was altogether commonplace Mr Cannon after dinner gave us a hint that he would like an invitation to my Tuesdays and I gave it to him—He is one of the leading Radicals who has been always the most opposed to Mr A more especially concerning the Jackson business. We finished the Evening alone Two of the boys went again to the Circus.24th Morning at home The young men dined at Mr Tayloes and came home quite dissatisfied at their party—In the Evening went to a ball at Mr Calhoun’s which was so crowded it was scarcely possible to breathe—The party was as pleasant as such a party can be and we had much laughter and good humour but the air of the room was almost insupportable The Gentleman use musk and put one in mind of Hotspur’s description of a Fop. Civet assails the sense long ere we see the man—and most unpleasantly—we returned early—Count de Menou went about inviting verbally to a great Ball to be given in favor of the Marriage. I heard of it and immediately refused to accept such an invitation as I thought this was much too familiar for a Chargè d’Affaires as the Corps Diplomatique must always be on a footing of ettiquette more especially with the heads of Department—This I represented to one of the Legation and desired him to tell the Count that I would not go unless I was invited in due form. Mr Clay was at Mr Calhoun’s and seemed to be desirous of making his attentions very publick25th Mr Laborie called to me to tell me that Count de Menou had received my message and that invitations were to be sent immediately—In the Evening we had a small party of friends among whom was young Pinkney who sung and played a number of Songs. Mr Miralla a South American was likewise with us—he is one of the most animated little beings I ever met with possessing all the ethereal brilliancy which we are taught to believe belongs to the South—He is an Improvisatore and favoured us with some Poetic effusions which we were as much pleased as we well could be understanding so little of the language. Our friends did not leave us until 11 o’clock.26th Went to the Catholic Church expecting to hear the Bishop of New Orleans preach—In this I was disappointed and heard a ridiculous discourse from the Curè whose language is vulgar beyond description and whose manner is altogether unsuited to the solemnity of their ceremonies—There is something very imposing in their worship well calculated to attach the ignorant and I am not at all surprized that Nations should endeavour to cultivate a Religion so well adapted to insure political Institutions more particularly those of a Despotic or Monarchical Government. It is said that the Emperor of Russia already repents the little he has  done towards enlightening his half civilized subjects and the Religion of that Country even worse than the Catholic whose Clergy are mostly educated men whereas in Russia a fine voice is all that is requisite to make a Pope and it is very rare to see one who knows how to read and write and he is privileged to get intoxicated by way of celebrating the Church ceremonies and thus gains unbounded influence over the Community who find in him a jolly boon Companion—Can any thing in nature be more preposterous than such Institutions One of the privileges of the people always struck me as being odious and most horribly immoral—This is the great fast of Lent when the People abstain from food of every description excepting Cakes made with bad oil  and dried Mushrooms this fast is of seven weeks and they drink nothing but Water. On Easter Sunday they feast and during the week they may lie dead drunk in the Streets without fear of Punishment as the Laws sanction any degree of intoxication for that period. Thus the Government itself permits that at one moment which it stigmatizes at another for the mere convenience of keeping the People quiet. Passed the Evening at Mrs Thornton’s which was rather stiff and dull.27th Had a small party at dinner Mr Sergeant Mr Barstow Mr R. Amory Mr Lewis and Mr Pinkney We had a delightful dinner being all intimately acquainted and having a mutual esteem for each other—They remained with us until nine when Mr Petry came in and sat chattering about two hours of old times and old friends to his utter astonishment he found when he got home that it was midnight. Mr Sergeant is in poor health but tolerable spirits considering the loss of his Son which he has never entirely recovered.28th Went out and paid a number of visits and in the Evening had as usual a very pleasant party of about an hundred and twenty Thus my Evenings keep up their reputation without any effort on my part—The great news which excited so much Interest in Congress has sunk into nothing and Gales and Seaton if not their patrons are likely to escape without blemish. Asbury Dickins will most likely prove the scape goat for the benefit of his Master who will reward him probably in some way or other Should he rise to the situation to which he aspires—This party was the most agreable we have had this winter We kept it up until near twelve Mrs Johnston a Lady from New Orleans called very beautiful If I live to get through the Winter I shall find it very difficult to get through with them with the same spirit.29th We passed the morning in preparations for a Ball at Mr Canning’s As I generally cut out and fix my own clothes. This occasion brought out a gown which I have had seven years and which I have never made up and taking some trimmings from one nearly worn out I put the Materials together and produced a dress so splendid that it created great admiration. The truth is Mr A furnished my wardrobe very handsomely in Paris and I have nursed it so as to make it so as to make it answer my wants for seven years—This is however such a trying winter that I am a little afraid it will be entirely demolished and I shall never have the means to afford a fresh supply—It is singular what an effect a showy appearance makes and I have long thought that persons who are thrust into prominent and elevated stations must set themselves above the vulgar  prejudices of mankind and dare uncommon things. If we trace the course of nature we shall find that even minds of superior order are caught by the timid trappings of outward splendour even when reflection does it’s utmost to conquer the impression and external advantage gives point to what is called affability and makes it more grateful to the multitude. The only art requisite is to adapt splendour to occasion and to know how to be simple and unostentatious according to circumstances. In Philadelphia I was a Nurse and only known there as such in Boston as a Traveller in Washington as the Lady of the Secretary of State a situation admitting every thing but extreme familiarity.


Title: From Thomas Boylston Adams to Benjamin Waterhouse, 31 January 1823
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Waterhouse, Benjamin

					Dear Sir
					Quincy 31st January 1823

				By request of My Father I have the pleasure to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the  Instant and the Essay on the Whooping Cough presented to the “Adams Library of the Town of Quincy.” As this is the first occasion, by donation, to that Library, I may be permitted, as one of the Trustees, to thank you in their behalf, for this valuable Treatise, upon a disorder, which I have always consider’d, as one of the most distressing to the human family, of the whole of Pandora’s brood, and which all parents must be grateful to any benefactor, who by his professional labours and Research, shall in the smallest degree contribute to alleviate or elucidate.—I have the honour to be / Respectfully Your Humble Serv’t.

					Thomas B Adams


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 1 February 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

My Dear Daughter.
Quincy February 1st. 1823—

I have received your last Journal, and thank you for it. When the Lady asked you which you prefered, the Illiad, or Paradise lost, you should have answered her as we New-England people do, by asking her another question, pray Madam do you read the Illiad in Greek, or in Pope.
I wonder not that you threw your arms round your husband upon reading his answer to General Smyth, I would have done the same if I could, never was a man attacked by so many in succession, so unprovoked, so unnecessarily, so wantonly, and so maliciously, and so insidiously, And never did a man defend himself so promptly, and so manfully. There seems to be a confederation against him as numerous as that against Nepolian; I hope he will not grow giddy with his triumph and hazard all by a Battle of Waterloo.
I am glad your Sons have been honoured with an Invitation to the Presidents, And that Mr. and Mrs Lloyd visit you, I hope you will be good friends, I hold them among the first worthies—The noble Berean who came from Virginia to examine Mr. Adams, whether these things were so, proved himself to be a Virginian of the old school, and for what I know, of the new, that is to say, a Manly fellow.—
Your affectionate Father
J Adams


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 7 February 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

7-10 Feb, 1823

7 Feby. We remained at home all the Evening Morning—Mr Adams dined at the Capitol with Mr Mrs L Hill and walked part of the way home which encreased his Cold and was quite unwell when he got to Mrs. Brown’s where we all went to a Ball which was very splendid and elegant—I had a great deal of conversation with many person’s and one with Mr Archer of Virginia upon second marriages which was quite interesting Mr. Addington and myself frequently have long chats—He is a pleasant well bred man who has travelled and seen something of the world and although he does not appear to me to be very deep he has a cultivated mind and enough of that showy conversation that leads to the idea that he knows much more than he really does with just modest assurance enough to maintain a higher standing in society than as to talents Nature seems to have intended him. He is Nephew to Lord Sidmouth who was formerly Speaker of the House of Common’s Mr Clay is playing a new game—I always mistrust these sudden changes and though I do not interfere in Politicks it is difficult for me to avoid knowing transactions which are before the publick and continually discussed before me and which places a man in the strongest light as an enemy to my husband—How much discretion and discernment it requires to be the Wife of a great man, and how very difficult to avoid irritating enmity without an appearance of fawning and intrigue which is dispicable to the Soul of a virtuous woman, to endeavour to conciliate those whose good opinion it is worth while to secure—It has ever been my desire to obtain the esteem and good will of men whose respectable characters shining qualities or superior abilities make them objects of public praise or notoriety—I care not of what party—
8 The Girls paid visits in George Town notwithstanding the day was so cold it was hardly supportable—In the Eveng we remained at home and Mrs. Smith came over as Mr Laborie had engaged to come and read a french Comedy to us.—He however disappointed us and we had a visit from Mr Petry at near ten o clock who sat with us more than an hour—My house is now very attractive and I every day deplore the necessity I am under of wasting time which I could enjoy so agreeably, in empty show and flighty conversation in crowded parties—To be an object of attention to the busy censorious multitude, whose praise is tinctured by envy, and whose approval is embittered by irony—To person’s so situated there is only one course to pursue, and that is to rush on impetuously, without enquiring why or wherefore, lest reflection should make me shrink from a life altogether so wearisome, so toilsome, and in a religious point view so unprofitable—The addition of Miss Hopkinson to our society is delightful, for mind scintilates in every glance of her eye, and that mind though enthusiastic and brilliant, is corrected by sound judgment, right principles and the most unpretending sweetness of manners.—This is a Girl after my own heart, and when I look at her I grieve over again if I could ever cease to lament the loss of the lovely creature which God for wise purposes thought fit to take from me, least I should adore the creature and forget my Creator—
9 I slept so late from absolute weariness that it was too late to go to Church when I awoke—Mr. A— went to Bakers Church and heard Mr. Breckenridge who gave them a curious Sermon describing "Voltaire, Hume, Tom Paine, and Mahomet with all their disciples forming a Conclave in Hell"—And although the picture was aweful there it unfortunately proved that Madme. de Stael’s observation is correct, that “there is not much more than a hair’s breadth between the sublime and the ridiculous" It were perhaps more prudent not to force the errors of transcendent genius into light which by interesting curiosity spreads the deadly and dangerous doctrines of infidelity—We passed the Evening sociably at Mrs. Browns where we found a small party, among whom was Miss Spear whose tongue is a glaive which inspires terror and cuts into the very soul She is an old Maiden Belle whose hoard of accrimony is ever venting itself against the stupid generation of mankind who had not wit to appreciate her rare qualities and hand down transcripts of her perfections to posterity for the benefit of the future race—I have but little acquaintance with her but at all events cry her mercy as I should sink under her lash—She is a Hebe of sixty still crowned with roses and perhaps still not unwilling to adopt the Myrtle loves own plant—
10 The weather dull and the boys are about leaving us which makes our hearts more sad than the weather—In the Evening we all went to Col Tayloes and being already out of spirits passed the most unpleasant Eveng Col and Mrs Tayloe have always lived upon the most friendly terms with my family—Their family is of the highest respectability in Virginia but among the whole of them there is not one above mediocrity in point of talents Their wealth and high standing in their own State gives them great influence and they are ever tendering proffers of their services and friendship—Mr Clay last Evening took an opportunity of assuring me that it was his wish to be on friendly terms with me and my family and expressed a hope that if he did not come to my Tuesdays that I should not believe it was intended as a mark of enmity.—


Title: From John Adams to Alexander Bryan Johnson, 12 February 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Johnson, Alexander Bryan

my Dear Sir.
Quincy  Febry. 12th. 1823

Of making and reading Books, there is no end, And therefore it is hardly worth while to make a begining except for the necessary purposes of common life; I have never been afraid of a Book.—Brand Hollis, my Friend, said to me, there never was a bad book in the World.—Perhaps a Man of Sense and rectitude might learn something from any one; But there are many bad Books, and I have read many.—Excepting a gratification of curiosity, I know not whether they have even done me good or harm, they have made little alteration in my natural sentiments, opinions or feelings; You would be suprised perhaps at the Catalogue. Hobbs and Mandeville have found a perfect antidote to their poison in Bishop Buttler, Dr. Clarke, Dr. Tillotson, and twenty other writers, Voltair, Rousseau Didero, Dalembert, Frederick King of Prussia, and the Baron De Grimm, have found a compleat confutation in the contemplation of the Heavens and the Earth. The primitive world of Court de Gebellin, Bryants Mythology, and Dupuis Universal religion, and Volneys new researches into the History of Ancient Nations; Have not converted me to their system of Philosophy; Sir William Jones’s works have excited a curiosity for Oriental literature which can never be gratified.—I wish our Missionarys would import and translate Sanscrit, and Persian Books, we might possibly learn something useful from them that we do not know which might somewhat abate our Bigotry. But why am I running away in this random strain of pedantry—
I lived for some years in the Basse Cour de Monsieure La Ray de Chaumont, that is in the Ancient Hotel de Valentinois, a Spacious Palace at Passy, yet Mr. de Chaumont was not above Manufactures in Cotton, or in Stone, I hope his Son, and Grand Son will succeed in their Iron Manufactors, and all their other interests—
I would not advise you to indulge so wild a passion for reading as I have done, for it has neither done me good, or harm accept as a medicien for Ennui to your affectionate / Grand Father
John Adams


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 12 February 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 12 Feby. 1823.

				Ere you can have arrived at Baltimore my beloved Children I address you in the hope that my Letter may find you immediately after your arrival at Boston in good spirits and safety and to thank you both for the many happy hours which you have caused your Mother to enjoy by your good conduct and affectionate attentions during your visit.Life is a scene so mixed so full of pleasure and pain that we can scarcely ever taste the one without partaking of the other and it is this mixture which encreases our enjoyments and induces us by softening the heart to sympathize in the afflictions of our fellow creatures. When the mind is religiously and virtuously inclined it meets with these little trials with fortitude and patience assured that the lessons thus received must prove beneficial by exciting gratitude for the many great mercies received and teaching us to look up to the Omnipotent God of Heaven for future blessings and for strength so to conduct ourselves as to enable us to offer up our prayers with purity and humility of heartThe feelings which you expressed in the lines addressed to me my Dear John are so amiable so correct and so well explained they produced tears sweet and consolatory and taught me the most delightful of all sentiments in this world that of Maternal pride and the purest Maternal affection—May that God to whom you appeal hearken to your prayer and take you both under his divine protection to him I recommend you both and join in the most ardent petition that he may continue to shower his blessings on you and to encourage your future exertions that you may reward your father for all his unbounded goodness to you and to me—Form yourselves my Children on this model and make rigid principle the test of your future conduct and be assured that in adversity as in prosperity you will find the reward which pre eminence in virtue always ensures—My heart is too full to write on light subjects I will therefore only say that I am as ever your doating Mother

					Louisa C. Adams—

					I have opened my Letter to make a suggestion my dear John which I pray you to attend to—As you will have some leisure this next Summer over look and devote sometime to those studies in which you acknowledge yourself deficient and you will add a pleasure and a comfort to the life of your Mother—


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 14 February 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					my dear Daughter
					February Quincy 14th. 1823

				Thanks for your Journal of the 26th. There is in human nature a germ of superstition, which has cost mankind very dear, and there is an other germ the love of finery, and which has done almost as much harm, and both have been employed with great sagacity by temperal and spiritual politicians to debase, degrade and subdue mankind, even with their own consent under the cruel iron rod of despotism. These two germs, are as vigorus in North American savages, and African Negros as in any other Men—and they continue growing and spreading & ramifying and becoming more oppressive costly and cruel in every stage of civilize civilization—You are very prudent in appearing as a Nurse, in Philadelphia, as a traveller in Boston, And it was not amiss to appear as the Lady of a Secretary of State, at the Ball of a Foreign ambassador but an uncommonly fine gown will excite envy, among all the umbrageous Ladies, in Boston, New York, Philadelphia, or Washington—I wonder not that our Sons, prefered the Exhibitions of Horsmanship before the formalities of a Drawing Room, but they would have seen more of the great world there, and it is of importance to young Men to see the Assemblys of Notables in their own Country, if they can be Sage enough to behave modestly, and respectfully to every body—In expectation of seeing our Collegians / I remain your affectionate / Father

					John Adams

					P.S. An Electioneering campaign for the Choice of Governour is opening upon us here, and I expect that Messrs Otis, & Eustace will receive as many compliments, as your Husband, in the News papers, If men will persue the bubble reputation, and All these mighty offices are nothing but bubbles of reputations, they must pay the penalty


Title: From Caroline Amelia Smith De Windt to François Adriaan Van der Kemp, 14 February 1823
From: De Windt, Caroline Amelia Smith
To: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan

					New York February 14th 1823

				Do not my dear Sir attribute my long silence to unmindfulness or negligence, after I received your kind letter announcing your safe arrival at home and conveying to us the music and Poetry for which our young friends were much obliged, I came to this City to make an Autumnal visit, here I was taken very sick and in consequence of my indisposition was advised to remain this side of the highlands until the genial warmth of Spring rendered Cedar Grove again inviting; I recovered more rapidly than was expected. sent for my children and have enjoyed thus far during the winter uninterrupted health and the pleasure of seeing my little flock pursue and progress very satisfactorily in their English and French studies, Their Grand Mother Mrs de Wint from long residence and endeared associations has become so attached to the County that she has no wish to leave it, As for myself I prefer during the stern reign of winter to contemplate the Human face, and permit myself to be amused by the variety presented in a City enjoying all the advantages a metropolis affords, to the bold and majestic scenery by which we are in the Country surrounded.But soon the Singing of birds will come—the flowers will spring up, and Pomona with her varried Stores invite our return to enjoy the bounties of a merciful Creator and gladden the heart of our aged parent.You found no difficulties in the way at your first attempt and I hope if business or pleasure should draw you from home, you will recollect the pleasure in your power to bestow by making your friends on the Hudson another visitMrs. Quincys third daughter Sophia is passing the Winter in this City I have several times had the pleasure of seeing her. she appears to me to be all that is amiable and lovely—all that her Mother can wish her—I think the copy of a letter I shall subjoin to this, will interest Judge Vanderkemp as much as any thing I could offer—If you will direct your next letter to me to No. 89 Liberty Street, New York—I shall receive it.Mr. de Wint and Mr. Lawson both request I will offer to you their respects—Be assured dear Sir every letter I receive from you I consider an honour confered upon your respectful friend

					Caroline A deWint

			 Enclosure
                                                Copy-My dear Miss HinckleyQuincy Dec 1822The Emperor Napoleon said “when women were good, they were better than men; but when they were bad, they were worse than men.” I have had enough experience of the first class to be of his opinion; of the last class; I have not known enough to form a judgementI must therefore leave it to the experience of others.But of what follows I am perfectly convinced by long experience. To wit, that a lady of modesty; prudence discretion and dignity, of intelligence; tenderness and sensibility; Of gaiety and gravity in season, of rational seriousness and piety, is the most admirable the most estimable and most lovely being, on the skies.Miss Hinckley herself is a fair candidate for this character and I wish her perfect success—A pleasant and prosperous voyage to Europe and a happy returnyour friend

                            John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 15 February 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

my dear Daughter
Quincy February 15th. 1823—

Thanks for your Journal of the 26th. There is in human nature, a germe of superstition which has cost mankind very dear; And there is another germe, the love of finery, And which has done almost as much harm, And both have been employed with great sagacity by temporal, and spiritual politicians, to debase, degrade and subdue mankind, even with their own consent under the cruel iron rod of despotism—These two germ’s are vigorus in North American Savages, and African Negros, as in any other Men, and they continue growing Spreading, and ramifying and becoming more oppressive, costly, and cruel, in every stage of civilization—
You are very prudent in appearing as a Nurse, in Philadelphia, as a Traveller in Boston, And it was not amiss to appear as the Lady of a Secretary of State, at the Ball of a Foreign Ambassador. But an uncommonly fine Gownd will excite envy among all the umbrageous Ladies, in Boston, New York, Philadelphia, or Washington.
I  wonder not that our sons, prefered the Exhibition of Horsemanship, before the formalities of a Drawing Room, but they would have seen more of the great World there, And it is of importance to young Men to see the Assembly of Notables in their own Country, If they can be sage enough to behave modestly and respectfully to every body—
An Electioneering Campaign for the choice of Governor is opening upon us here, and I expect that poor Otis and Eustace will receive as many compliments as your Husband in the Newspapers, If Men will pursue the bubble reputation,—And all these mighty offices, are nothing but bubbles of reputation, they must pay the penalty.—
In expectation of seeing the Collegians— / I remain your affectionate Father
John Adams.


Title: From Johnson Hellen to John Adams, 20 February 1823
From: Hellen, Johnson
To: Adams, John

					20 Feb 1823

				Not having read the novel I am unable to Judge of the merits of the review. He seems to think this novelist an honor to the country; and asserts it as a singular fact, that all the characters are the copies of originals and executed with such accuracy, that the inhabitants of the village, which is the scene of the story, recognised upon perusal their associates in fiction. How did you get to Cambridge? Any ups and down in your journey? Nothing I hope like broken bones, dislocated joints, fractured sculls, bruised shins, lacerated flesh or bloody noses, which often occur in La-diligence. Your avocations I have no doubt will occupy the greater portion of your time and shall consequently attribute any disappointment in my anticipated pleasure, to the proper cause. Our Court is approaching and the encouragement I have received, exceeds my most sanguine expectations, having obtained thirty cases, which  for a beginning is not to be complained of. Remember me affectionately to Charles and mention to him that he shall hear from me very soon. How do you relish Cambridge after the attractions of the Metropolis? Books must be rather dull to you, who have been all along,—at least for the winter—reading the language of the heart. I can assure you that I feel considerably flattered at your resistances of Georges solicitations to pass the evening with the Miss C.——s for the purpose of writing to me and hope to receive many such agreable letters. Yours affectionately—

					Johnson Hellen


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 23 February 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					Washington 23 Feby. 1823

				At last my dear Charles I find a moment of leisure to address you not having had a moment since you left us disengaged from company—We have been out every night and the parties have generally been pleasant Mrs. Calhoun’s was an imitation of ours but did not take the Miss Roberdeau’s Miss Pleasanton Miss McKnight Miss Selby and one other whose name I have forgotten—They were all dressed fancifully and Mr Wilmot Mr D’Espinville Mr Turnbull Mr C Munroe Mr John Mason Mr Parish were the beaux wearing large bunches of while Ribbon—What the ceremony was I have not been able to find out but no doubt something very suitable to the occasion—Thus you see your Mother’s follies are copied, and thus they are stamped a compliment twice repeated is worth nothing and in fact cannot apply but they plume themselves wonderfully on their exploit and I wish them joy of it—We were last night at the Washington Ball—It was not full and there was no supper but on the whole it was by far the best I have been to in this Country—The President was there alone the Chief Justice Marshall and Secretary Thompson. Your favorites were out for the first time since you went away and looked sweetly. Poor Lewis is becoming sober and there is much talk of his passion for the lovely Cornelia—I wish for her sake it may be true and that it may be a match—She would suit a Russian Climate very well.—Mr Parkneau who has been here sometime seems to be smitten by the Charms of Miss Hariet—Poor Miss Selden has been sick and confined to her room almost ever since you left us and is still very sick—Your father tells me he shall leave Washington for the Eastward the fifth or sith sixth of July but as he means to stop in the Cities and perhaps pass ten days at the Springs I know not when we shall get there—Mr. Hersans has arrived and the captivating Cecilia was robed in soft and sweet Virgin bashfulness trifling with her favorite Baron and waiting the arrival of her love in joyous expectation which is strongly manifested by her appearance and dancing at all the parties that are given. We are I suppose about to be bored with another Wedding and our anticipated again about to be disturbed for parties and nonsense—delightful as it all was to you two it is becoming very tiresome to your affectionate Mother

					L. C. Adams.

					This Letter is for you both—


Title: To John Adams from William Cranch, 27 February 1823
From: Cranch, William
To: Adams, John

					Dr Sir—
					Alexr. D.C. 27th. feb. 1823

				I hope you do not think that because I do not often write to you, I do not often think of you; much less that I have forgotten the debt of gratitude I owe. for your No other of my old friends is so often in my thoughts,—indeed you are the only one left of that class of my friends to whom I look’d up with reverence; & I delight in calling to my recollection your venerable form. You seem to me to stand like the granite of your own montains mountains, whose asperities have been smooth’d by the peltings of a thousand storms, & whose heads are cover’d with snow as they stretch towards heaven. Elevated above the political atmosphere, you see the high coruscations of party heat, & the lightnings of the political tempest, playing harmless at your feet. Were I a painter I think I could make a fine picture of it. The patriot gradually rises till he has reached the highest point of the political region, & still impelled by the same spirit of patriotism by which he first began to rise, he is born-above the clouds of faction, and in his ascent to heaven looks back upon his country with a blessing. Such are the visions which float in my mind when I think of you.—I am now an old man myself; yet you was an old man when I was a boy. It would be a great gratification to me to think that I should see you again; but the duties of my office require my daily attention, & I see but little prospect of my ever visiting again my native state. againI do not mix much with the world, but I hear that Mr. J. Q. A’s political friends are rapidly increasing; I hope you may live to see him enjoying the honours he so well deserves.It is not my object to give you any trouble; I shall therefore not expect any reply to this expression of my gratitude, but beg you to accept the assurance of my most sincere attachment & veneration, & to believe me always / with the highest respect, Dr Sir, / your affectionate & obliged / nephew

					W. Cranch


Title: From John Adams to Alexander Bryan Johnson, 1 March 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Johnson, Alexander Bryan

Dear Sir.
Quincy March 1st. 1823—

I like your philosophy very well, I will pursue an idea suggested in my last; I do sincerely wish that the Mandarins of China, the Bramins of Hindostan the Priests of Japan, and of Persia, could be influenced with the same zeal de propaganda fide as the Roman Catholics and Calvanists of this day are for propagating their Creeds, and ceremonies, I wish they would form into societies, open their purses, contribute their diamonds, pearls and precious Stons, as liberally as our people do their treasures, for translating their sacred books into English, French, Italian, Spanish, and German—
And send Missionaries to propagate them throughout all Europe and all America North & South. We might then know what the religions really are of the great part of the World. We know as little of them now, as we do of the religion of the Inhabitants of Sirius, the dog Star.
But sobrius, esto—Stop pause! Let us consider what would be the consequence; what would our Christian theologians, from the Pope, to Zinzindorf Sweedenborgh, Wesley, down to Mr. Maffit say, if these learned priests of all there vast Countries, if they were to appear here with their Brama and Veda and Zoroaster and Confucious, entering among their Parishioners and Congregations and zealously labouring to make converts among them—Do you think these reverend Gentlemen will be tolerant enough to permit them.? would they be counted contented to preach and write them down, or would they try to inflame the civil power to raise its arm of flesh and Strength to drive them out—But to descend from visions to realities Have you read Hallams Middle Ages, Simonds travels in Switzerland. Old England by a  New England Man or Tudors James Otis? If you have not, I advise you to buy them all, for they are all books worth having, reading, and keeping—
I am yours kindly
John Adams—


Title: From John Adams to William Cranch, 10 March 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Cranch, William

Dear Sir.
Quincy March 10th. 1823

I have received your kind letter of the 27th. Feb—with great satisfaction and sincere gratitude, I can reciprocrate your sentiments with great truth, the loss of my sight and a parilitic quiveration of my hands have rendered it impossible for me to write, And the dictation of a letter costs me more pain, than to write four, when I could write, You have rarely been out of my thoughts and I have deeply sympathised with you in all your misfortunes, though these light afflictions are but for a moment. Yet I have found by melancholy experience, that, that moment lasts as long as life.
Although you say you are an old Man yet I find that your imagination is as vigorous and brilliant as any young Man; what judgement posterity will form of my character I know not, and cannot conjecture they will have an Encyclopedia of libels to examine and digest before they can come at the truth. And I fear they will never have the means of reaching it—Our Fathers, Mothers, Brothers & Sisters, where are they, I hope they are in a world of more sincerity than this, where they can read each others hearts, through transparent bosoms, or in plain english, where nothing but truth, honour and candour can be found.
My Son has li was born, has lived, and will dye, in a continuel succession of storms, what rational creature would lead such a life has he & I have done when he could stay at home sleep in a whole skin, eat his beaf and Mutton in tranquillity enjoy his family and friends, grow rich and fat, & sleep sound at night, (I answer) every rational creature who possessed a conscience, a sense of duty a love of Country, and benevolence to mankind would prefer a life of toil and danger, to the life of ease safety and Sloth.
With my love to your family & Children / believe me to be affectionately / your Uncle
John Adams


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 11 March 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					Washington 11 March 1823

				I have been so sick with the Influenza it has not been possible to write independent of which the perpetual round of dissippation in which I have lived seems to have deadened all my faculties and destroyed all the little gleam of light which was wont to illumine my ideas when I wished to throw them on paper—Party’s of every description being done with there is not a word of news stirring and we are left to dreem away our lives in vain regrets for what we have lost and in the anticipation of something as agreeable for the future—Your young friends are all well and enquired particularly after you when they came to visit me  a few day’s since—geist has restored them to their good looks and Miss Ann looks much the better for it—Mr Lewis went off without popping the question and the fair Cornilia remains in statu quo—Miss Hopkinson is still with us and more a favorite than ever particularly with your father who has as high an opinion of her mind as I have—She is as full of play as a kitten notwithstanding—George keeps much aloof and is getting better on a certain subject—All else as usual—The circumstance which you mention in your Letter as to the vacation is was threatened sometime ago and probably will not take place at any rate “sufficient to the day is the evil thereof”Mr & Mrs. Boylston are very good but we have so many and such vast plans for the Summer I know not how they will end—At any rate I shall have the delight of seeing you both and of witnessing John’s exit from Alma Mater which I hope will be gay and blithesome—You will have seen Tom Hellen I hope he went on with Mr Plumer—God Bless you both is the prayer of your Mother

					L C A—

					I could not see to write and I fear you will not to read—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 21 March 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					My Dear John
					Washington 21 March 1823

				Worn out by fatigue parties influenza and all sorts of weariness both of mind and body I have really been too idle to attend to my correspondence and have scarcely taken a pen in my hand—The apology is a poor one but such as it is you must be content to accept it for it is the truth—The City has been profoundly dull since the adjournment of Congress and we have had but one event to enliven us since your last Letters. Mr.  was engaged to be married to Miss Kitty Lee and I had the honour to be invited to the Wedding which was to take place the Thursday after the close of the Session. The day arrived and I had prepared to attend when lo! and behold a note was brought to me stating “that circumstance not within the controul of the family” must prevent their receiving the invited Guests and I soon after learnt that the marriage in consequence of a conversation between the Bride and Bridegroom elect the Eveng. previous in which he declared if he was not more successfull in new Orleans than he had been here he should shoot himself induced the Lady to declare off and she actually went off to Baltimore the next morning with all her Wedding paraphernalia which had been made up at a great cost—The good Gentleman has borne his misfortune with great courage or rather as HE says like a Roman—It is a fine specimen of modern heroism and worthy of imitation more especially as neither of the party’s had anything to live upon but their finery—The day before yesterday we went to Mount Vernon with Mr Webster Mr Pinkney Mr Carter Miss Hopkinson and Mary George and myself—No accident of any consequence occurred but the breaking the Shafts of Georges Gig which fortunately  or was near Alexandria—Mr Coolidge happened to be coming on in a Carriage and took him up so that we were enabled to continue our expedition—It is really disgusting to think that the remains of so great a man should be enshrined in so worthless a tomb—To his name the Nation could add no lustre to their own honour they ought to do something to wash away the vile stigma of ingratitude and the disgrace of shame.—God Bless you both

					L. C. Adams—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 23 March 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 23 March 1823

				Your Letter and the pleasing information it contains has greatly delighted your father and I think you will now be rewarded by his full approbation of the exertions which you have made and which at last have proved successful—We shall certainly visit Boston as I wrote you and George has engaged to study with Mr Webster who is now here—Miss Hopkinson is at Alexandria to which place I took her on Wednesday last she is to return on Friday next and will soon return to Philadelphia under the protection of Mr Webster George is quite sick again all the other branches of the family are well—As I wrote you so lately and there is not a word of news to tell I will only add that I am as ever your affectionate Mother

					L. C. Adams—


Title: From John Adams to Alexander Bryan Johnson, 26 March 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Johnson, Alexander Bryan

Dear Sir
Quincy March 26th. 1823.

I begin my letter, as you end yours of March 13th. with the word Amen. I admire your liberal philosophy and the large scale of your Religion, I cannot conceive however in your preferance in Presbyterianism, the presbytery have too much priestly Authority in matters of faith, like that which is claimed by the Episcopal Church, And the doctrines of both the Churches are too Calvinistical for me, as well as two hierarchical. I believe I go the whole length with you in your expansive benevolence in religious matters,—I have immortalized my name to a motion in our late Convention in this State, that, “all men of all religions, behaving peaceably and submitting to the laws should injoy equal privileges, civil, and religious in society.” The Convention did not agree to my motion, but I am the more proud of it for that.
 You sport very pleasantly with prejudices, and with great reason, but I believe that you have stronger and earlier prejudices in favour of the blooming charmes of your Abigail, than for the fading laurels of her withered old Grand father.—
In Voltaires works you will find an inexhaustible source of entertainment; you will find chaff, and trash, and froth, and filth; this you will dispise and pass over, but if you think fit to amuse yourself even one moment with these, you will find sparkles of wit, no man who ever lived had so much wit as Voltaire, his wit has attracted readers in all nations and have enabled him to propagate the spirit of toleration in religion more than all the other writers in the eighteenth century.—he was a Napolian in literature—It seemes as if providence made it a rule never to give us a great Man capable of doing as great good, without vices, follies, and extravagances which occasions what we call great evils, the progress of a great Man through the world scatters desolation at the same time that it bestows great blessings. A future state will  set all right. without the supposition of a future State, I can make nothing of this Universe, but a Chaos notwithstanding its stupendous magnificience and apparant sublime order. Next to Voltaire in Wit, and trash, is Dr. Swift.
Of the venerable Bede I know little or nothing, excepting, that he published a criticism of the paraphrases of Erasmus who answered him, and convicted him of having advanced in his miserable libel, one hundred and eighty one lies, two hundred and ten calumnies, and forty seven blasphemies—
love to all the family —from your decriped correspondent

John Adamsby proxyLouisa C. Smith


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 27 March 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					Washington 27 March 1823.

				The easy manner in which you appear to take your College studies is diverting to me I confess but notwithstanding all your boast’s I flatter myself I shall assist at your Commencement with as much pleasure as I anticipate at John’s—The effect that your brothers success has produced upon your fathers spirits is such as to produce the greatest emulation in his Children for he has recovered his health and is growing fat—You cannot conceive or rather you can having lived here how dull it is since Congress went away not a thing, stirring not a word of news, and every house shut.—We went to Mount Vernon about ten days ago and had altogether the most fatiguing day I ever went through we were accompanied by Mr Webster Mr Pinkney and Mr C P. Carter—George drove Mary to Alexandria in a Gig and when we got there Miss Hopkinson accompanied him. They had proceeded only a mile and a half when George descended from the Gig and was quietly walking up a steep hill to afford the Horse some relief the roads being execrably bad, when he saw the horse fall down and his companion in imminent danger; she however sprang out as soon as the animal was fairly down, preserving great presense of mind, and escaped all danger. The Shafts were however so completely broken as to make it impossible to proceed, and having a vacant seat in the carriage we took up the Lady, and fortunately Mr Coolidge and Mr. Bulfinch appeared in a hack just at the moment of the disaster, and picked up our poor wanderer, so that we accomplished our journey without further difficulty—the Ladies all behaving like heroines throughout the day,—and not a little diverted at the terrors of one of their magnanimous protectors—Judge Washington received and entertained us with great politeness. We visited the tomb, the sight of which shocked me more than I can express—It is a disgrace to the Nation; and every foreigner must leave this Country after having visited it, with feelings of disgust towards a people, who can thus treat the memory of one of the greatest men who ever graced the world, and whose value is better understood and appreciated by the Nation he conquered, than by the race his virtues adorned, and his whose valour secured to them the innumerable blessings which they now enjoy, and of which they are so ostentatiously proud—We returned to Alexandria and slept there and the next morning visited Mrs Moore and Miss Ann Cottringer who looked very sick—Miss H remained there and will probably return tomorrow—Adieu

					L. C. A—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 27 March 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

Washington 27 March 1823

Surely my dear John you were not in your usual state when you wrote and enclosed George’s Letter to me or you could not have put such a construction upon it—Remember that when we undertake to correct the faults of others we should have attained to years of experience and have acquired by this means the capacity of advizing or else have conquered and eradicated all those failings in ourselves which we wish to correct in others—You will not be pleased at this remark from me but reflection will teach you that there is too strong an indication of arrogant presumption in the tone of your notes on that Letter more especially at the moment of your own success to be agreeable to me to whom goodness of heart and unobtrusive worth is more valuable than all the wit that the most brilliant genius can boast—Your brother is a little excentric in his ways and has many peculiarities of character which time and experience alone can eradicate or rather ameliorate—but these are mere puerile habits acquired by neglect in those who ought to have checked them in early youth He has to make up for these little deficiencies which after all are only the want of attention to a few polished agreements, the best and kindest heart, and the truest affection for his brothers; which has been strongly manifested in the warmth and zeal with which he has urged their cause, when their father found so much cause to censure and disapprove—I have also warmly and unceasingly prayed for your acquisition of all that your father was so solicitous you should obtain; but it was in the hope that you would bear your budding honours meekly and with true judgment; which would point out to you the necessity of "plucking the moat out of your own eye ere you attempt to remove the beam” from that of your neighbour—A domineering spirit like an ill weed is of rapid growth, and when the root is well strengthened can scarcely ever be destroyed—hard have I ever found it to check this failing in myself. I am therefore able to point out the danger to you to whom the curb is so necessary, and though you will rebel while you read this Letter, and every proud feeling will revolt at the advice it contains, I feel it will make a due impression on your mind, and that the conviction that it is impelled by the ardent affection of a Mother will make it acceptable to a Son who has but little to do to be all that Mother can wish or desire—


Title: From John Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 29 March 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Thomas Boylston

Dear Thomas
Montezillo March 29th. 1823

I am much pleased with your letters, to your Parents and to your Sisters, as well as those to me, and I advice you to write as many as you can, but have a care not to write in too much haste, acquire a habit of care and attention not only to the beauty and distinctness and legibility of your hand writing but to the correctness of your Grammar, spelling and even punctuation by this habit, you will soon find it easier to write well than to write in a careless and slovenly manner I congratulate you on your acquisition of number one but let not this flattering distinction however, tickle your vanity too much, be very careful to avoid all exultation, wear your honors modestly and meekly nothing excites envy, and enmity so much as a silly vanity and assuming pretensions
Captain Partridge is a kind of guardian angel to you, a surer guide than the Demon of Socrates was to him, he takes care for the preservation of your health by the exercise of your body, and to fortify your limbs and nerves by increasing your knowledge of the Country, but he enlightens your mind by instructions in the knowledge of the Classicks.—I am glad you have made such progress in Virgil, though you will hereafter find Ovid more mellifluous in his versification and more instructive in the Mythology of the Greeks and Romans as well as in that of the Egyptians and other ancient nations from whom it was borrowed—
God bless you my Boy so prays / your affectionate / Grandfather

John Adams
P. S. Be very careful what intimacy’s and friendships you form in, these, your youthful days, they may form your Character and influence your fortune through life—let sobrius esto, be your Motto J. A.