Title: To John Adams from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 16 December 1817
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Adams, John

					My dear Sir
					La grange december 16th 1817

				I am much obliged to You for the Very Agreable Acquaintance of Mr Theodore Lyman; to Him I Will Be Under obligation for the kind Care He takes to forward this Letter: He lives in the Capital: I in the Country Where the pleasure and occupation of farming are to Me a Continual source of Enjoyment. Not So Exclusive However as to Render me insensible of What is Going on in the political line. our Affairs, My dear friend, are not So Bad as they Look to Be. I know the party of privileges is, in every part of Europe, upper Most, Nor am I the dupe of the liberal Cant of the Sainte Alliance Which is another Word for the old former Coalition of Pilnitz and Coblentz. But there also Excits in Every part of Europe a Spirit of Emancipation founded on the doctrine of Rights, the Blessed ofspring of our American Revolution. this patriotic Spirit, and an irresistible tendency towards political freedom is particularly remarkable in france Where the Good Sense of the people, enlightned By Experience, and formed By the Greater Vicissitudes, is Now Much improved from What You Have known it. the Successive Scenes of this European Contest No Body Can foretell, But that the Cause of Liberty Shall Ultimately prevail, and that france Will keep the Lead in this General struggle for the Rights of Mankind are two predictions which I confidently think I Could Utter.in the Mean While our Government is Under foreign influence, our frontier in foreign keeping, and great part of our Money delivered to foreign Hands. Yet if You observe How Lately more than one third of the Seven thousand Richest Citizens of paris Have Withstood in their Ballots the power, threats, wealth, and intrigues, both foreign and domestic who did all Coalesce Against Certain Elections, How an independant Minority in the Chamber of deputies Make Use of their faculty of Speech as to principles and facts, How a number of writers in their pamphlets are defying the Seizure, fines, and incarceration, How Spirited Young lawyers Step out and Express their Mind in political trials, and how public opinion Becomes a Shield for the Most Noted patriots Against the Rage of party, and the Arbitrariness of the Exception Laws, You will find the Companion betwen this Restoration and that of England, under Charles and James, much in favour of the doctrines of the day, and the actual Sentiments of the french Nation.inclosed is the list of the Works Which M. detracy Has published Under His own name. He is living, but Unfortunately deprived of His Sight. He Was an Imperial Senator, and Now is a Roïal peer. Now and then He Goes to the House where He Ranges With the Very Small Number of patriots Who Are Neither Ministerial or Ultra Royalists. He Has a Wife and three Children one of Whom is My daughter in Law, the other, the Son, Has Been, when a prisoner in Russia, Under the Greatest obligations to Mr Quincy Adams, who is Equally Beloved and Venerated in that family. I knew How proud and How Much pleased My friend Tracy Would Be With Your Enquiries after him: He Has Requested me to present You With the Hommage of His Gratitude and Regard. I intend Going to town, for a few Weeks, at the End of the Month When I Will take the Next opportunity to Send You the Books.M. dupuis is no More. He died Some Years Ago. I was not personally Acquainted With Him, altho’ He Has Sent to Me His Explanatory dissertation printed in 1806, Sur le Zodiaque Chronologique et Mythologique. He was a Member of the legislative Councils, and Under the Consular and imperial Government, Remained in the Corps legislatif who Elected Him as their president, no doubt in a jesting Way, to Receive the Bonapartian Concordat With the pope, a transaction Unpopular Enough at the time, altho’ it is Now, Comparatively, Much prefered to the one Which the Roïal Government Has Lately Ushered. M. dupuis Has Spent an immense Learning, without Much Clearness or Method, in attributing Every Religious System to Astronomical observations and allegories. His Great Work in Six Volumes is Rather Complete. He Gave out an abregé Which I Have in My library. But His Whole theory Has Been, By another Hand, Reduced to a small Volume the Arrangement of Which Seems to Me Much preferable. I Will Send it With tracy’s Works. There is also a Commentary on Montesquieu Which May, I think, Be interesting to You, more so probably than the AntiReligious dissertation of M. dupuis.Our propensities to politics are very differently Affected by What We Have Under our Eyes. in the U.S. all is Happy, prosperous, and Cheering. Here the Birth is Uncomfortable, the Weather Cloudy. But the thought of American freedom, glory, and felicity is to me delightful. You Wish Both My Countries to Be for Ever United. Every thing promises it Shall Be the Case, the More So as france’s new doctrines, Since the Revolution, are Evidently American imports.Adieu, my dear and Respected friend; present My Affectionate Regard to Mrs Adams, Your Son, to the Whole family, and Receive the Expression of My old Attachment and Respect

					Lafayette—


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Waterhouse, 22 December 1817
From: Waterhouse, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

					Magnus Apollo!
					Cambridge 22d. Decr. 1817

				Accept my most cordial thanks for your truly friendly epistle. I loose not a moment in answering your interesting query. The Lady in question is, I conceive legally divorced. Her quondam husband is now in the jail of New York, for the third or fourth time; a mere vagabone. They were divorced in 1810, by the Supreme Court of Vermont. The Lady & her father, with the aid of Judge Dawes were taking Steps for divorcement from Henry K. When her father was taken sick, & after lingering many months died. In the mean time the cunning Madam Knox sends her darling Son into Vermont, where he pretended to Study physic. After a time, he petitioned for a divorce, in the plea that his wife refused to live with him; but the mother’s intention was to avoid the scandal infamy of having her Son’s conduct exposed to the public. His petition was granted, & the Mrs. Knox was regularly notified thereof, and time given to reply, or express her objections to it. as it was the thing She wished, She remained silent, & rejoiced in the idea of being divorced from the wretch she hated. From that time to this  She has received the warmest expressions of respect, esteem & affection from Madam K: for the worthy General died before the seperation. The letters of Madam K, and of her daughters, Still continue full of affectionate expressions. The bill of divorce runs thus—and they are no longer man & wife—no longer one but twain; and they have leave to marry again. You doubtless recollect the form, when, as in this case, the vinculum matrimonii is dissolved. It is not therefore a seperation from bed & board. I consulted Mr Attorney General Morton on the Subject, he Said that it was not according to the laws of Massachusetts, but according to the laws of the Sovereign State of Vermont; and he gave it as his opinion that if the Lady should think fit to be married out of the State of Massachusetts—in Vermont, Rhode Island, or New Hampshire, there would be no risk in it. I suggested the risk of dower, which Mr Morton thought was possible. I wrote to the Chief Justice of Vermont on the subject, who covered a Sheet of paper with his opinion, & ended it by inviting the Lady and  gentleman to his house, where he said he would take care to have a priest, or a magistrate to perform the Service. I fairly relate facts, and look up to you for advice The Lady has trembled, & alternated full a twelve month, with fears, doubts, & apprehensions; but her mother in law Madam K. has urged it with all her powerful rhet rethoric—The plain & serious fact is this—Mrs. K. has been legally divorced by the supreme Court of Vermont on the petition of the husband, which was cheerfully acquiesed in by the wife, as it relieved her from the irksome task of prosecution. The Question is this—Do you think that the divorce by the authority of Vermont from the bonds of matrimony, with express liberty to marry again ought to be so far respected by a citizen of Massachusetts, as to render a man of character & conscience; and a woman of character, conscience, & delicacy easy to contract a second marriage,  while the quondam husband is living? The Lawyers have told me that if the Lady be married out of Massachusetts, it is legally safe; but is it in your opinion decent, decorous, and proper? Does the question resolve itself into this—Does a regular divorce of citizens of this State, by the authority of another State, so far dissolve the bonds of matrimony, that either may form a second connection  living) in our the State where the marriage was originally solemnized?The common opinion is that this Lady was divorced only from bed & board; but the truth is—it was from the bonds of matrimony, with express leave to marry againIf you will give me your opinion as soon as may be, I will promiss you to make no use of it beyond the knowledge of the two parties concerned. It is a serious & solemn question. I never needed so much the advice of a wise friend as in this case. My great respects to your good Lady—May I receive a line by the next mail? yours faithfully

					B. Waterhouse

					P.S. By madam’s being pleased with the quotation from Grandison, I infer that difference of age has not much weight with her—.


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Waterhouse, 29 December 1817
From: Waterhouse, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

					Dear Sir,
					Cambridge 29th. Decr. 1817.

				Habituated as I have long been to consider your judgement as infallible, I have not found it exactly so on the subject of our two last letters. When I wrote to you on that subject of the heart, I had come to a fixed resolution of following the advice of my family & friends. I have penetrated their thoughts, & have discovered their opinion which taken collectively amounts to this—we censure not—we advise not—we wonder not; but we think it would be an act of imprudence for a man of your age to marry a woman scarcely 34. My mother in law Madm. Oliver, who is with me, greatly admires the Lady; but says—it is very natural for an old man to love a young woman; but not for a young woman to love an old man. She asks—at what period of your life would you have married a woman 20 years older than yourself? I replied—at no period. She says it is laying too heavy a load of prudence on a young woman; and so says the Lady’s mother.My near-neighbour & intimate friend John Appleton has been long enough in France to become a Master of Arts. He Knows every thing. He uses arguments of another sort, which I cannot repeat.—In a word all my friends think that such a disparity of age, will fix the name of imprudence to such a connection; and in consequence of this united judgement, We have come to the resolution of seperating forever; and this resolution is assuredly a Virtue in both.It is not a very easy thing, where there is a strong mutual attachment, of long standing, to reason it down, especially when all the arguments on one side are that the object is too young—too handsome—too agreeable—or, in one word, too lovely, for a man of 60. What was that Sultan’s name, who, when reproached by his high officers, with being too much engrossed by the charms of a most beautiful mistress, twisted his hand in her hair, drew his scymeter, & cut off her head. This barbarian was to be pitied, as well as abhored for his virtuous butchery—My children & other near connexions must now choose for me some grave, good, homely rich body, between 50 & 60, for they are all very earnest that I should be, what they call, resettled again in life; and may their wise conduct verify the words of Juvenal—”Nullum numen abest, si sit Prudentia.”I have just finished a pretty elaborate plan for the commutation of death for that of compulsory labour in a military-national Penitentiary in the case of Desertion from our army, & other high crimes in soldiers now punishable with death. It is proposed, that in these penitentiaries shall be manufactured every article of soldier’s cloathing from the cap to the shoe; and in the course of a few years—all the arms & accouterments of the soldier; and that the soldiers to be employed to guard them should be taken from the corps of Invalids, now about to be established. I should like to read you my scheme. Such an institution would very soon support itself. So you see that all my own invalid forces are not on duty at the heart Yours soberly,

					B. Waterhouse


Title: From John Adams to John Jackson, 30 December 1817
From: Adams, John
To: Jackson, John

Sir
Quincy Decbr 30th 1817

In 1774, I became acquainted with MacKean, Rodney, and Henry. Those three appeared to me to see more clearly to the End of the Biussiness than any others of the whole body. At least, they were more candid and explicit with me than any others. Mr. Henry was in Congress only in 1774, and a small part of 1775. He was called home by his State, to take care a military Command. mackean Rodney continued Members and I believe I never voted in opposition to them in any one instance
When, as it happened I was appointed to draw the plan of a treaty to be carried to France by Dr. Franklin and proposed by him Mr Deane and Mr Lee to the French court, I carefully avoided every thing that could involve us in any alliance more than a Commercial friendship. When this Plan was reported to Congress, my own most intimate Friends Samuel Adams and Richard Henry Lee differed from me in opinion. They thought there was not sufficient temptation to France to join us. They moved for cessions and concessions, which implied warranties and political alliance that I had Studiously avoided. My principle was perpetual peace, after that war should be concluded, with all Powers of Europe, and perfect Neutrality in all their future wars. This principle I was obliged to support against long arguments and able disputants, and, fortunately, carried every Point: and, in every point, MacKean and Rodney adhered to me, and Supported me, with inflexible perseverance.—And, for four years, I knew not that Mr MacKean ever differed from me in a vote Mr MacKean however was not constantly in Congress, He was soon Appointed Attorney General of Pennsylvania and afterwards Chief Justice, and the duties of those offices, though he was always a Member of Congress often necessarily prevented his attendance in the house.—While I was in Europe, nothing passed between Mr MacKean and me except now and then a few lines of introduction for a travelling friend about to cross the Atlantic. and except that my bookseller by my advice sent a quantity of those dull volumes called “A Defence” to Mr MacKean who Committed them to Mr Dobson for Sale.—Mr MacKean often expressed to me his entire Approbation of the System and concurrence in all the sentiments in that Work.—
When I met Mr MacKean again in person at Philadelphia which was in 1790, after a separation of Eleven Years and more, I found him as well as President Washington, and all his Family and all his Ministers both Houses of Congress the city of Philadelphia and all mankind, for I know not one Elecction Exception, glowing with Sanguine hopes and confident Expectations of a Revolution in France that should produce a free, democratical Republick, as Sister to ours, in the first Nation in Europe.—
I stood alone, could agree with nobody in Opinion upon that Subject. I could foresee nothing but Calamities to France and to the World, and the French Constitution of 1789 confirmed all my fears—I saw a disposition every where to enter into closer Connections with our Sister Republick and Unite with her in a War against all her Ennemies.—Mr MacKean was arranged with Mr Mifflin Mr Sargent Dr Huchinson Mr Rittenhouse, Mr Gallatin, Mr Finley Mr Swanwick, and even my bosom Friend Dr Rush, in this Enthusiasm for the French Revolution and a closer connection, and an Alliance, Offensive and defensive with our young sister Democratical Republick at the head of all Europe.—
This appeared to me not only a total departure from our old system, “Friendship with all Nations, but entangling alliances with none” as fully understood and determined by Congress; but a policy which must be ruinous and destructive to our Country.—From this source arose, I will not say a Separation or an Allienation between Mr MacKean and me, for we still continued on terms of Mutual Civility; but a cessation of that Intimacy which had formerly subsisted between Us.—But it was impossible that either of us should ever forget the other.—
I wish I could extend this letter; but it is impossible—If I regret the infirmities of Age, it is not because they announce the rapid approach of the End of my life; but because they disable me to associate my own and Correspond with my Friends according to their Wishes and my own.—And this must be my Opologey for the shortness of this letter—
from your very humble Servant
John Adams—


Title: From John Adams to William Wirt, 5 January 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Wirt, William

Sir
Quincy January 5. 1818

Your Sketches of the life of Mr Henry have given me a rich Entertainment. I will not compare them to the Sybil conducting Eneas to the Regions below to see the Ghosts of departed Sages and Heroes: but to an Angel convoying me to the abodes of the blessed on high to converse with the Spirits of just Men made perfect. The Names of Henry, Lee, Bland Pendleton Washington Rutledge Wythe Dickenson &c will ever thrill through my Veigns with an agreeable Sensation. I am not about to make any critical remarks upon your Work at present
But, Sir
Erant Heroes ante Agamemnona multi
If I could go back to the Age of thirty five, I would endeavour to become your Rival; not in elegance of Composition, but in a Simple narration of facts Supported by Records Histories and Testimonis of irrefragable Authority.
I would adopt your Title “Sketches” in all its Modesty.
Sketches of the Life and Writings of James Otis of Boston.
And in imitation of your example I would introduce Portraits of a long Catalogue of illustrious Men, who were Agents in the Revolution.
Jeremiah Gridley the Father of the Bar in Boston and the Preceptor of Prat Otis Thatcher Cushing and many others; Benjamin Prat Chief Justice of New York James Otis of Boston Oxenbridge Thatcher Jonathan Sewal Attorney General and Judge of Admiralty Samuel Quincy Solicitor General, Daniel Leonard, Josiah Quincy Richard Dana and Francis Dana his Son, Minister to Russia and afterwards Chief Justice, Jonathan Mayhew D.D. Samuel Cooper D.D. James Warren and Joseph Warren, John Winthrop Professor at Harvard Colledge, And Member of Counsal, Samuel Dexter the Father John Worthington of Springfield Joseph Hawley of Northampton, Governors Huchenson Hancock Bowdoin Adams Sullivan and Gerry Lieutenant Governor Oliver Chief Justice Oliver, Judge Edmund Trowbridge Judge William Cushing, and Timothy Ruggles ought not to be omitted. The Military Characters Ward Lincoln Warren Knox Brooks & Heath &c must come in of Course. Not should Benjamin Kent, Samuel Swift or John Read be forgotten.
I envy none of the well merited Glories of Virginia or nay of her Sages or Heros; but I am jealous, very jealous of the honour of Massachusetts. The Resistance to the British System for Subjugating the Colonies began in 1760 and in 1761 in the Month of February when James Otis electrified the Town of Boston the Province of Massachusetts Bay and the whole Continent more than Patrick Henry ever did in the whole Course of his life. If We must have Panegyric and Hyperbole, I must Say that if Mr Henry was Demosthenes and Mr R. H. Lee Cicero, Mr Otis was Isaiah and Ezekiel united.
I hope, Sir, that some young Gentleman of the Family, the ancient and honourable Family of the “Searches” will hereafter do impartial Justice to Virginia and Massachusetts.
After all this freedom I assure you it is no flattery when I Congratulate the Nation on the acquisition of an Attorney General of such Talents and industry as your Sketches demonstrate. With great Esteem / I am Sir your Friend
 John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Thomas B. Wait, 10 January 1818
From: Wait, Thomas B.
To: Adams, John

					Sir,
					Boston, Jan. 10, 1818.—

				When I had the honour of calling on you, I only conjectured that the printing of the Journals of the Convention, &c would be under the direction of the Secretary of State; but by the inclosed N. Intelligencer it appears to be very certain that the  publication will be committed to his care.—You will recollect that in the letter wh. I shewed you from Mr: King, it was suggested that, were I on the Spot, I might obtain the printing of the Journals of the Convention, and also that of the old Congress, should they be published.—Mr. King was Chairman of the Committee appointed by the Senate to contract with for the copies of State Papers and Publick Documents purchased by Congress.—It is not for me to say, that Mr. King, as Chairman of the Committee, was satisfied with the promptitude and fidelity with which that contract was, on my part, fulfilled; but it cannot, I think, be improper for me to presume, that, had he been dissatisfied, he would not have even hinted that Government might be disposed to give me further employment.—You, Sir, know me as a Publisher, and will Speak of me as you think proper.—Were you better acquainted with me, as a man, you would know with how much esteem, and respect, and veneration, I am, and from my earliest youth have been, your obedt. Servt.

					Thos. B. Wait.—


Title: From John Adams to John Trumbull, 12 January 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Trumbull, John

Dear Sir
Quincy Jan. 12 1818

I have received your favour of 26 of Decr and request you to insert my Name among the Subscribers for your Print of the declaration of Independence. In great / haste I am your Friend
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Hezekiah Niles, 14 January 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Niles, Hezekiah

Mr Niles
Quincy January 14th. 1818

In a former letter I hazarded an opinion that the true history of the American revolution could not be recovered, I had many reasons for that apprehension, one of which I will attempt to explain. Of the determination of the British Cabinet to assert and maintain the sovereign Authority of Parliament over the Colonies, in all cases of Taxation and internal policy. the first demonstration which arrived in America was an order in Council to the officers of the customs in Massachusetts Bay to carry into execution the acts of trade and to apply to the supreme Judicature of the province for Writs of Assistants to authorize them to break and enter all houses, Cellars, Stores, Shops, Ships Bales, Casks &c to search and seize all goods, wares, and Merchandises, on which the taxes, imposed by those acts had not been paid.
The Cockle of Salem, a deputy under Mr Paxton of Boston, the Collector of Customs, petitioned the superior Court in Salem in November 1760 for such a Writt. The Court doubted its Constitutionality and consequently it legality. but as the Kings order ought to be considered, they ordered the question to be argued before them by Council at the next February term in Boston. The community was greatly alarmed. The Merchants of Salem and of Boston applied to Mr Otis to defend them and their Country, against that formidable instrument of arbitrary power. They tendered him rule Fees. he engaged in their cause but would accept no Fees.
James Otis of Boston sprung from families, among the earliest of the planters of the Colonies and the most respectable in rank, while the word rank and the idea annexed to it were tolerated in America. He was a gentleman of general science, and extensive literature. he had been an indefatigable student during the whole course of his education in College and at the Bar. He was well versed in Greek & Roman history, Philosophy, Oratory, Poetry, and Mythology. his classical studies, had been unusually ardent, and his acquisitions uncommonly great. he had composed a treatise on Latin Prosody, which he lent to me, and I urged him to print. he consented. It is extant, and may speak for itself. It has been lately reviewed in the Anthology, by one of our best Scholars, at a mature age, and in a respectable station. he had also composed with equal skill & greater labour a treatise on Greek Prosody. This also he lent to me, and by his indulgence, I had it in my possession six months. When I returned it, I begged him to print it. he said there were no Greek types in the Country, or if there were, there was no printer, who knew how to use them. he was a passionate admirer of the Greek Poets, especially of Homer, and he said it was in vain to attempt to read the poets in any language, without being Master of their prosody. this classic Scholar was also a great Master of the Laws of nature, and nations. he had read Puffendorf Grotius, Barbyrac, Bulamaqui vattel, Heineccius and in the civil law, Darnal Justinian, and upon occasion consulted the Corpus Juris at large. it was a maxim, which he inculcated on his pupils as his patron in the profession, Mr Gridley had done before him “that a Lawyer ought never be without a volume of natural or public Law, or moral philosophy on his table or in his pocket” In the history, the common Law, the Statute Laws of England, he had no superior, at least in Boston. Thus qualified to resist the system of usurpation and despotism, meditated by the British Ministry under the auspices of the Earl of Bute, Mr Otis resigned his commission from the Crown as advocate General an office very lucrative at that time, & a sure road to the highest favours of Government in America and engaged in the cause of his Country, without fee or reward. his Argument, Speech, Discourse, Oration, Harangue, call it by which name you will, was the most impressive upon his crowded Audience of any that I ever heard before or since, excepting only many Speeches by himself in Phanuel Hall and in the House of Representatives which he made from time to time for ten years afterwards. There were no Stennographers in those days, Speeches were not printed, and all that was not remembered, like the Harrangues of Indian Orators was lost in Air, & who at the distance of Fifty Seven Years would attempt upon Memory to give even a Sketch of it. some of the Heads are remembered out of which Livy or Sallust would not Scruple to Compose an Oration for History. I shall not essay or Analysis or a sketch of it, at present. I shall only say, and I do say in the most Solemn manner that Mr Otis’s Oration against Writts of Assistance breathed into the Nation the Breath of Life.—
Altho Mr Otis had never before interfered in public Affairs, his Exertions on this Single Occation secured him a commanding Popularity with the Friends of their Country and the terror and Vengeance of her Enemies; neither of which ever deserted him.—
At the next Election, in May 1761 He was elected by a vast Majority a Representative in the Legislature, of the Town of Boston, and continued to be so elected Annually for nine years. Here at the head of the Country Interest, he conducted her Cause with a Fortitude Prudence Ability and Perseverance which has never been exceeded in America, at every Sacrifice of Health Pleasure Profit and Reputation, and against all the Powers of Government and all the Talents Learning Witt Scurrilety and Insolence of its Prostitutes.—
Hambolen was shott in open Field of Battle. Otis was basely Assassinated in a Coffee house in the Night by a well dressed Banditti with a Commissioner of the Customs at their head
During the Period of nine years that Mr Otis was at the head of the Cause of his Country he held Correspondences with Gentleman in England Scotland and various Colonies in America: He must have written and received many Letters, Collected many Pamplets and probably composed Manuscripts which might have illustrated the rising dawn of the Revolution.—
After my return from Europe I asked his Daughter whether she had found among her Fathers Manuscripts, a Treatise on Greek Prosody? With hands and Eyes uplifted, in a Paroxism of Grief she cryed “Oh Sir I have not a line from my Father’s pen, I have not even his name in his own hand Writing.” When she was a little Calmed I asked her who has his Papers? Where are they? she answered “They are no more. In one of those unhappy dispositions of mind he collected all his Papers and Pamphlets and Committed them to the Flames. He was several days employed in it.”
I cannot enlarge. I submit this hint to your Reflections Inclosed is a morsel of verse, written soon after Mr Otis’s death by a very young Gentleman who is someone of our excellent Majistrates. If you do not think fitt to print this Letter and that verse, I pray you to return them to—
John Adams—


Title: From John Adams to William Wirt, 23 January 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Wirt, William

Sir
Quincy Jan. 23d 1818

I thank you for your kind letter of the 12th of this Month. As I esteem the Character of Mr Henry an honour to our Country and your Volume a masterly deliniation of it, I gave orders to purchase it as soon as I heard of it: but was told it was not to be had in Boston. I have seen it only by great favour on loan, a Copy from the Author would be esteemed worth many by purchase. It may be sent me by the Mail.
From a personal Acquaintance, perhaps I might say, a Frienship with Mr Henry, and from all I have heard or read of him for more than forty years I have always considered him as a Gentleman of deep Reflection, keen sagacity, clear foresight daring Enterprize, inflexible Intrepidity and untainted Integrity, with an ardent Zeal for the Liberties the Honour and felicity of his Country, and his Species. All this you, (justly as I believe) represent him to have been. There are however some Remarks to be made Upon your Work, which if I had Eyes and hands I would, in the spirit of friendship, attempt. But my hands Eyes and Life are but for a Moment.
When Congress had finished their Business as they thought, in the Autumn of 1774, I had with Mr Henry, before We took leave of each other, some familiar Conversationwith him, in which I expressed a full Conviction: that all our Resolves, Declarations of Rights, Enumeration of Wrongs, Petitions and Remonstrances and Addresses Associations and Non Importation Agreements; Though they might be expected by the People of America and necessary to cement their Union; would be but Waste Water in England. He thought they might be of some use among the People of England but would be totally lost upon the Government. I had just received a hasty Letter written to me by Major Joseph Hawley of Northampton containing “A few broken Hints” as he called them, of what was proper to be done, and concluding with these Words
“After all; We must fight.”
This Letter I read to Mr Henry, who listened to it with great attention and as soon as I had pronounced the Words “After all We must fight” he erected his Head and with an Energy and Vehemence that I can never forget, broke out with “By God I am of that Mans Mind.” I put the Letter into his hand, and when he had read it he returned it to me with an equally Solemn Asseveration that he agreed entirely in Opinion with the Writer. I considered this to be a Sacred Oath upon a very great Occasion I could have sworn it as religiously as he did. It was no Contradiction to what you say in some Part of your Book that he never took the Name of God in vain.
As I know the Sentiments with which Mr Henry left Congress in November 1774, and knew the Chapter and Verse from which he had borrowed the Sublime Phrase “We must fight;” I was not at all Surprised at your History in the 122d Page, in the Note, and some of the preceeding and following Pages. Mr Henry only pursued in March 1775 the Views and Vows of November 1774.
The other Delegates from Virginia returned to their State in full Confidence that all our Grievances would be redressed. The last Words which R. H. Lee said to me when We parted were, “We shall infallibly carry all our Points. You will be compleatly relieved; all the offensive Acts will be repealed, the Army and Fleet will be recalled and Britain will give up her foolish Project.” Washington only was in doubt. He never spoke in publick In private he advocated a Non Exportation as well as a Non Importation Agrement. With both he thought We should prevail. Without Either, he thought it doubtfull. Henry was clear in one Opinion, Lee in an Opposite Opinion and Washington doubted between them.
Oralory will always command Admiration: but it deserves no great Veneration. It consists in Grace of Attitude and Motion, Intonations of the voice, and Expressions of the Countenance. Could Demosthenes comprehend these three Things, in his “Action”?
To speak of American Orators ancient or modern would lead me too far, and indeed out of my depth. I must conclude with fresh Assurances of the high Esteem of your humble Servant
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Thomas Jefferson, 28 January 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir
Quincy Jan. 28 1818

Permit me to introduce to you Mr Horace Holley, who is on his Way to Kentucky where he has been invited to undertake the Superintendance of a University. This Gentleman was Settled very young at Greenfield as Successor to Dr Dwight; but having a Mind too inquisitive for Connecticut he removed to Boston where he has been Settled nine years and where his fame has erected one of the loftyest Temples and assembled the most numerous Congregation of Auditors in Boston.
You will find him frank enough candid enough, social enough, learned enough and eloquent enough. He is indeed an important Character; and if Superstition Bigotry, Fanaticism and Intolerance will allow him to live in Kentucky, he will contribute Somewhat to the illumination of the darkest and most dismal Swamps in the Wilderness. I Shall regret his Removal from Boston because that City ought always to have one Clergy man at least who will compell them to think, and enquire: but if he can be Supported in Kentucky I am convinced he will be more extensively usefull. If upon conserving with him Your Conscience will allow you to give him a Line to any of your Friends in Kentucky where all are your Friends you will do him more Service and perhaps more Service to our Country and our kind them you or I may be aware. He is one of the few who give me delight.
I am anxious for South America. They will be independent of Spain. But can they have free Governments? Can the Roman Religion and a free Goverment exist together? I am, dear Sir with / the old Friendship your
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Nathaniel Niles, 30 January 1818
From: Niles, Nathaniel
To: Adams, John

					Hon. Sir,
					Baltimore, Jan 30th 1818

				 I was favored with your communication in due time, and have gratefully published it in this day’s Register—of which a copy is herewith transmitted.I am much mistaken if the public will not feel greatly indebted to you for this sketch of the character & conduct of a man so distinguished as Mr. Otis.When your inclination wills it, I will thankfully receive, & I trust pay due respect to, any such or similar communications that you may honor me with being made the instrument of giving to the public.Your lady will see that I have noticed here letter—I hope in a satisfactory manner.With honest respect / & sincere veneration, / Yours

					N Niles


Title: To John Adams from John Jay, 31 January 1818
From: Jay, John
To: Adams, John

					Dear Sir
					Bedford—West Chester County—State of New York—31 Jany 1818—

				I recd. your Letter of the 9th. by the Mail which arrived here on the 24 Instant on the Return of Mr. Son and his Sisters from their Tour thro’ the Eastern States, it gave me pleasure to learn from them, that they had paid their Respects to you—that they found you and Mrs. Adams in good Health, and that I might expect a Letter from you—that expectation induced me to postpone expressing to you my Acknowledgments for the kind Reception they had at Quincy, and for your friendly Inquiries respecting me.my Daughter Mrs. Banyer has for years been in delicate health—it was thought that a long Journey would be useful to her; and her Brother and Sister agreed to accompany her. They were inclined to go either to the Falls of Niagara or to Quebeck; and set out for Albany with Intention to proceed to the one or the other, according to the information and Advice which they should receive from their Friends there. On their arrival at Albany, they were induced to prefer a Tour thro’ the Eastern States, and took it accordingly.—Had I been previously apprized of this, I should have sent them a Letter for you, with Directions to wait upon and deliver it to You.— I have not seen Mr. Wirt’s book, nor heard of the “Passage” in it, of which your Letter contains a Copy. You think that Passage, as you understand it, is not correct; and observe that, as I am the only man remaining alive who can perfectly correct it, in your opinion it is my conscientious Duty to do it.—For your Satisfaction and pursuant to your opinion, I will proceed to give you a plain Statement of Facts.There are Entries in the printed Journal of Congress, of 1774, which merit Attention, and I think the Extracts from that Journal which I shall introduce, afford inferences which militate against some of the Incidents mentioned in that Passage. That you may compare and examine both with the greater Ease to yourself, I will first insert the Passage, and then the Extracts.—“A Petition to the King, an Address to the People of Great Britain, and a Memorial to the People of British America, were agreed to be drawn. Mr. Lee, Mr. Henry and others were appointed for the first—Mr. Lee, Mr. Livingston, and Mr. Jay, for the two last—the splendor of their debut occasioned Mr. Henry to be designated by his Committee to draw the Petition to the King with which they were charged; and Mr. Lee was charged with the Address to the People of England. The last was first reported. On reading it, great Disappointment was expressed in every Countenance, and a dead Silence ensued for some Minutes. At Length it was laid on the Table, for Perusal and Consideration till the next day: when first one member and then another arose, and paying some faint Compliment to the Composition, observed that there were still certain Considerations not expressed, which should properly find a place in it. The Address was therefore committed for amendment; and one prepared by Mr. Jay, and offered by Governor Livingston was reported, and adopted, with scarcely an Alteration. These Facts are stated by a Gentleman, to whom they were communicated by Mr. Pendleton and Mr. Harrison of the Virginia Delegation (except that Mr. Harrison erroneously ascribed the Draught to Governor Livingston) and to whom they were afterward confirmed by Governor Livingston himself. Mr. Henry’s draught of a Petition to the King was equally unsuccesful, and was recommitted for amendment—Mr. John Dickenson (author of the Farmers Letters) was added to the Committee, and a new draught prepared by him, was adopted.”“Tuesday October 11—1774.”“Resolved unanimously—That a Memorial be prepared to the People of British America, stating to them the Necessity of a firm, united and invariable observation of the Measures recommended by the Congress, as they tender the invaluable Rights and Liberties derived to them from the Laws and Constitution of their Country.”“Also that an Address be prepared to the People of Great Britain”—“Ordered that Mr. Lee, Mr. Livingston, and Mr. Jay, be a Committee to prepare a draught of the Memorial and address.”—The Committee assigned the Memorial, which was first in order and also, deemed first in Importance, to Mr. Lee. Mr. Livingston, who was superior to me both in Age and Reputation, was desired to prepare the address.—He declined it, and urged me to undertake it. I finally consented, and did write it—“Tuesday—October 18. 1774.”“The Committee appointed to prepare an Address to the People of Great Britain, brought in a draught—which was read, and ordered to be on the Table, for the Perusal of the members; and to be taken into Consideration to–morrow”“Wednesday—October. 19. 1774”“The Congress resumed the Consideration of the address to the People of Great Britain, and the same being debated by Paragraphs, and sundry Amendments made, the same was re–committed, in order  that the Amendments may be taken in.”I was present in Congress and attended to the proposed Amendments—Mr. Lee (one of the Committee) moved that the Draught should be recommitted for the Purpose mentioned in the Journal, and for that Purpose it was recommitted.The amendments were made the next Day, and the Draught was returned to Congress the ensuring morning.“Friday—October 21. 1774—”“The Address to the People of Great Britain being brought in, and the amendments directed being made, the same was approved; and is as follows”Is it probable that the Committee found it necessary to assign both the Memorial and the Address to Mr. Lee?—or that he would readily undertake that double Task?—Or that, notwithstanding his other avocations in and out of Congress, he could finish them both, between the 11 October when they were ordered, and the 19th. when the Draught of the Memorial was reported?—According to the Journal, the Draught of the address was recommitted expressly for the purpose, and “in order that the amendments might be taken in.”Is it probable that the committee did nevertheless lay aside that Draught and substitute a new one? How could they have rendered such a Procedure reconciled to the Feelings of the writer of that Draught—or compatible with their recent approbation of it—or consistent with the Design and Object of the re–commitment? Could any of the Members have been so negligent of Delicacy and Propriety, as to propose or concur in such a Measure? Could the Embarrassments and difficulties attending it, have been surmounted between the Wednesday when the Address was re–committed, and the ensuring Friday when (with the Amendments taken in) it was read and approved?—The subsequent Occurrences you mention have not escaped my Recollection. I was informed, and I believe correctly, that one Person in particular of those you specify, had endeavoured by oblique Intimations to insinuate a Suspicion, that the address to the People of Great Britain was not written by me but by Govr. Livinston—that Gentleman repelled the Insinuation—he knew and felt what was due to Truth, and explicitly declared it.—Those Persons are dead and gone—their Design did not succeed, and I have no Desire that the memory of it should survive them.—As to the address or Petition to the King—who wrote the Draught that was reported and re–committed—how far it corresponded with the one that was adopted—whether Mr. Dickenson, after he was added to the committee, prepared an entire new Draught, or only cooperated, in amending the one then before the committee? are Questions which you only, who have survived all the other members of that Committee, can answer with Certainty. considering who were the Members of that Committee vizt. yourself, Mr. Lee, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Henry and Mr. Rutledge, I think the Idea of a new Draught cannot be correct. That Mr. Dickenson did write the subsequent or second address or Petition to the King, I have no Reason to doubt. To prepare an acceptable Draught of the first Petition was no Easy Task. Instructions as to Matters to be inserted in it were given to the Committee; and some were proposed which occasioned much Debate.—You may remember that many of the Members of that Congress were anxious that too much might not be done or said—and on the other hand, that there were many Members who were anxious that too little might not be done or said.—Hence there arose and prevailed a more than ordinary Degree of Sollicitude and watchfulness, both as to the purport of Subject matter, and to the Force and Latitude of Expressions: and hence also it may have happened that (except the Draught of a Letter to the Agents in England) every Report made to that Congress received Amendments, of one kind or other, before the approved and adopted it. Be pleased to present my best Respects to Mrs. Adams. It gives me to reflect that your Friendship for me has from “of old” continued steadfast; and that my Estimation of it has constantly animated the Attachment with which I have so long been and am / Dear Sir / your affte. Friend

					John Jay


Title: From John Adams to James Monroe, 4 February 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Monroe, James

Dear Sir
Quincy Feby 4th. 1818

I should ask leave without scruple to transmit the enclosed letter to you were it not for the foolish compliment in it to my pretended influence, which you know to be unfounded & therefore may pass over with a smile.
I do not hesitate to comply with his request, by enclosing a copy of a letter, I wrote to Mr Madison, on the 2nd. February 1813 nor scruple to say that no opinion or sentiment in that letter, has been changed. his late conduct in his office, will be made known to you of course. his exertions have been indefatigable and his late official letter very meritorious. An Epidemic Dyssentary prevailed, and under unskillful management Beauty, Talents, Learning, Virtue, and Fame fell fatal sacrafices. But when Waterhouses Pamphlet appeared, and his plan was adopted, it failed not to succeed.
Other Candidates there will be no doubt, in sufficient numbers. I know neither their merits, nor their persons, and desire nothing for Waterhouse but impartial a candid consideration, and impartial Justice, and that, I doubt not he will receive.
I have to honour to be Sir, your very respectful & most obedient Servant

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Waterhouse, 6 February 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Waterhouse, Benjamin

                            Waterhouse!
                            Quincy Feby 6th 1818

 you ought to tell me the name of that animal, who “faced you down” against dates and Otis. he must have been an inveterate, indurated Old Tory, with an Iron heart, and a brazen face. or at least a Son, or Grandson of such an one, who has inherited all his Ancestors Envy, Malice, Hatred, mortified pride and demoniacal revenge.
“James Otis had no Patriotism”!!!
Had the adored Hutchinson patriotism when he mounted to the head of the supreme Judicature on purpose to sanctify the most odious chain that ever was forged to fetter the hands & feet of a free people, as the Writs of Assistants would have been in the hands of an Executive power and a supreme, Sovereign, unlimited, uncontroulable, Legislative Authority, three thousand miles distant! Had any of his Idolators patriotism when they excited a bloody war of Eight years, against their Country to enslave it to a foreign Sovereignity?
Would Mr Otis because his father had been disappointed of an office which had been promised him by two successive Governors worth 120 pounds sterling at most have resigned an Office which he held himself worth two or three hundred pounds sterling at least—! if he had no patriotic feelings, his filial affection must have been very strong!
It has been in all times, the Artifice of Despotism and superstition to nip Liberty, Truth, Virtue, and Religion in the bud by cutting off the heads of all who dared to show a regard to either. But when a process so summary could not be effected, the next trick was to blast the character of every rising Genius who excited their jealousy, by propagating Lies, & Slanders to destroy his influence.
Jews and Pagans, imputed the conversion of St Paul to disappointment in Love. They said that he courted the daughter of his Master Gamaliel. but the learned Pharisee, thought him too mean in person and fortune for a match with the beautiful and accomplished young Lady, and forbade his addresses. Revenge for this affront excited a mortal hatred against all Pharisees and Paul became an Apostate from Judaism, & a convert to Christianity from spite. And this Calumny has lasted more than 1700 years. And I hope, the defamation of Otis, will last as long because it will be an immortal proof of the Malice, & revenge, of the Scurrilous, persecuting Tyrants against who he had to contend.
The Romans, & all of their communion say that “The reformation owed its origin in Germany to interest, in England to Love, and in France to novelty. That all the Kings & Princes who favoured it, were seduced by the temptation of the Confiscation of Lands and Gold & Diamonds of the Churches, Monasteries, and Convents.
Is Christianity the less divine? Is the reformation less glorious? Is the American revolution less beneficial for these envenomed Slanders?
I must know who that ugly fellow is, whom you quote with so little disapprobation Do you not abhor him? if you had loved James Otis in your youth, as much as I did in mine, and if you had smarted, as often as I have under the Hornet Stings, the Chew balls, the Serpents teeth, and the poisoned arrows of these old Tories, you would hate him, with a perfect hatred.
John Adams.


Title: From John Adams to François Adriaan Van der Kemp, 10 February 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan

					Dear Sir
					Montezillo Feb. 10. 1818

				James Otis Counsellor, Colonel &c &c &c Said to me Some fifty or Sixty years ago “John; when I meet with good Luck or bad luck, I Say nothing about either; because I know that more will be glad than grieved at my Misfortunes, and more will be mad than glad at my Prosperity.” This Old Fellow understood Mankind; and So do I. and therefore, when I am happy I never boast of it; and if I were miserable, which I  never have been yet; I would never complain of it to you.I have no hopes of marrying my Wifes Sister, for two Reasons. 1. She has none. 2. if She had ever So many not one of them would have me. I know not, then, why you Sent me Your learned and ingenious discussion, which however I have read with pleasure, though it was to me; using in re non dubia testebus non necessariis. I never doubted the Lawfulness but never liked the thing. all things that are lawful are not expedient.I will Send your Manuscript to Mr Tynge when I can find out where he lives. At present I know not.The American Accademy of Arts and Sciences was founded on a good plan and would have been a glorious Institution if its original design had been pursued. But Ambition has well nigh ruined it, by Splitting it into Morsells, erecting its Committees of into and an Historical Society, and Agricultural Society, a Medical Society an Antiquarian Society, not to mention Missionary Societies Bible Societies and Peace Societies, Assylums for Insane &c. And all this for the Sake of multiplying Presidents and Vice Presidents Recording Secretaries corresponding Secretaries Treasurers &c. and for the Sake of converting them all into political Electioneering Engines. These Things have made me perhaps too indifferent about them all. I have given you all the Transactions of all of them I ever owned and Shall never purchase any others. I find more entertainment and Information in De Grim, La Harpe and especially in Symondi. I am, Sir respectfully and affectionately / your Friend

					John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Henry J. Knox, 12 February 1818
From: Knox, Henry J.
To: Adams, John

					Much Respected Sir,
					Newyork 12 Feby: 1818

				In addressing this letter to you I rely not less on your liberal feelings, than on your ability, persuaded that the detail will not be uninteresting, the following is my situation, resulting from circumstances that I could neither foresee nor controul;—When, at the commencement of the late war, you were kind enough to patronise my attempt at getting some active employment, I did hope that a Benificent Providence would have smiled upon my exertions & have crowned the attempt with success, but alas, it proved otherwise in the event—In the beginning of February 1814, the privateer brig Ino, of which I was surgeon, was driven on shore near Charleston (S.C) by the British Frigate Severn, and rather than give her into the enemy’s hands, the privateer was set on fire & blown up; By this disaster I lost all my baggage, & arrived at Charleston, in a strange place, without money, or any friends who were able to assist me, I endeavoured to get some aid from my relations in Maine but they were unable to afford me any relief, even sufficient to enable me to return to them; I then attempted to practice in my profession, and altho’ I had many patients under my care, yet owing to the want of a Diploma, I could not legally recover a debt & the principal part of those, whom I had served, were mean enough to take advantage of this circumstance & paid me nothing; Thus finding my prospects frustrated & having collected barely sufficient to pay my passage, which was paid in advance, I embarked on board of a sloop, bound to Providence (R.I) but the vessel was compelled to put in here by stress of weather, where she was detained for several weeks, when she discharged her cargo & sailed for a southern port, this was about the middle of Feby 1817, when the weather was so extremely cold—Here again I found myself among strangers & without a dollar to help myself, & here I have been compelled to remain  ever since, under the lash of almost every privation; an illnatured creditor kept me for two months in a gaol, during which time I stated my case to a friend of my youth at Philadelphia, who responded, that he would cheerfully pay the expence of my getting the benefit of the Insolvent Laws of this State, but that to extend other aid, whilst I was so deeply involved in debt, he conceived, would not be a permanent benefit; In consequence of his answer, I have pursued measures accordingly, & have the satisfaction to observe, that all those creditors, to whom I have applied, have become petitioners, but my debts being greatly scattered, it has taken considerable time to concentrate them thus far & it will yet take two or three months before I can get my final discharge—I have barely existed, for some time past, upon small pittances from my different creditors &  I have had a hard struggle to keep out of a gaol, indeed. Sir, if you could see the condition of the unfortunate son of your departed friend, you would pity him & probably extend the benevolent hand to his Relief; I merely wish “to keep the wolf from the door” until I can get my discharge & a very trifling sum will be a great blessing—The necessity of making this application, I think you must know, is far from agreable to my feelings, yet I am writing to one of my departed Fathers warmest friends, to one who knew his virtues & his feelings, who knows that he never refused his aid to any person in real distress & would he have denied the son of his venerable friend, if such a case had occurred? Will you then refuse me? I feel assured that you will not—I freely confess that I have committed many errors, but they must be imputed to the right cause, a wrong education. in not being taught the true value of money in my youth; you will know that my honored Father never permitted the most trifling demands of his children to be unsatisfied you certainly then will make large allowances for the indiscretion of youth, indiscretions which have long since been abandoned, indeed to suppose for a moment that I should relapse into the vortex of folly, would be unpardonable—By the advice of a friend, on whose cooperation I calculate much, I intend, after getting through with my embarrassments, to establish in this city an office of General Intelligence, suited to individual wants in the detail of the current course of business here. I am flattered with a rational hope of making a lucrative establishment of it & have only to contend with the pressure of the moment almost to insure success, as I have not to fear any rival establishment—Those who know least of me suppose many things, my intimate acquaintances are confident that I shall succeed, for as this business does not require a capital; I shall not repose on the aid of any one, but trust to my own exertions & leave nothing to chance which can be accomplished by effort—A discerning friend of mine, who has lately visited Washington, & mixed with the best informed circles there, assures me that public sentiment is setting fast in favour of your son, the Honorable John Quincy, as the next President of the United States; His intimate Knowledge of foreign cabinets, of the different interests of his own country & his acknowledged abilities and perseverance all combine to place him in the public estimation, on very high ground—I intreat your forgiveness for troubling you with this long epistle; the urgency of the case must be my apology, at the same time I must request a speedy reply—With my most respectful compliments to Mrs. Adams I am with / the greatest consideration / Your Humble Servant

					Henry J. Knox


Title: From John Adams to Hezekiah Niles, 13 February 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Niles, Hezekiah

Mr Niles,
Quincy February 13th. 1818

grand Adams
The American Revolution was not a trifling nor a common Event. It’s Effects and Consequences have already been Awful over a great Part of the whole Globe. And when and Where are they to cease?
But what do We mean by the American Revolution? Do We mean the American War? The Revolution was effected before the War commenced. The Revolution was in the Minds and Hearts of the People. A Change in their Religious Sentiments of their Duties and Obligations. While the King, and all in Authority under him, were believed to govern, in Justice and Mercy according to the Laws and Constitutions derived to them from the God of Nature, and transmitted to them by their Ancestors— they thought themselves bound to pray for the King and Queen and all the Royal Family, and all the Authority under them, as Ministers ordained of God for their good. But when they Saw those Powers renouncing all the Principles of Authority, and bent up on the destruction of all the Securities of their Lives, Liberties and Properties, they thought it their Duty to pray for the Continental Congress and all the thirteen State Congresses, &c.
There might be, and there were others, who thought less about Religion and Conscience, but had certain habitual Sentiments of Allegiance And Loyalty derived from their Education; but believing Allegiance and Protection to be reciprocal, when Protection was withdrawn, they thought Allegiance was dissolved
Another Alteration was common to all. The People of America had been educated in an habitual Affection for England as their Mother-Country; and while they Thought her a kind and tender Mother Parent, (erroneously enough, however, for She never was Such a Mother,) no Affection could be more Sincere. But when they found her a cruel Beldam willing, like Lady Macbeth, to “dash their Brains out,” it is no Wonder if their fillial Affections ceased and were changed into Indignation and horror.
This radical Change in the Principles, Opinions Sentiments and Affection of the People, was the real American Revolution.
By what means, this great and important Alteration in the religious, Moral, political and Social Character of the People of thirteen Colonies, all distinct, unconnected and independent of each other, was begun, pursued and accomplished, it is surely interesting to Humanity to investigate, and perpetuate to Posterity.
To this End it is greatly to be desired that Young Gentlemen of Letters in all the States, especially in the thirteen Original States, would undertake the laborious, but certainly interesting and amusing Task, of Searching and collecting all the Records, Pamphlets, Newspapers and even hand Bills, which in any Way contributed to change the Temper and Views of The People and compose them into an independent Nation.
The Colonies had grown up under Constitutions of Government, So different, there was so great a Variety of Religions, they were composed of So many different Nations, their Customs, Manners and Habits had So little resemblance, and their Intercourse had been so rare and their Knowledge of each other So imperfect, that to unite them in the Same Principles in Theory and the Same System of Action was certainly a very difficult Enterprize. The compleat Accomplishment of it, in So Short a time and by Such Simple means, was perhaps a Singular Example in the History of Mankind. Thirteen Clocks were made to Strike together; a perfection of Mechanism which no Artist had ever before effected.
In this Research, the Glorioroles of Individual Gentlemen and of Separate States is of little Consequence. The Means and the Measures are the proper Objects of Investigation. These may be of Use to Posterity, not only in this Nation, but in South America, and all other Countries. They may teach Mankind that Revolutions are no Trifles; that they ought never to be undertaken rashly; nor without deliberate Consideration and Sober Reflection; nor without a Solid, immutable, eternal foundation of Justice and Humanity; nor without a People possesed of Intelligenc, Fortitude and Integrity Sufficient to carry them with Steadiness, Patience, and Perseverance, through all the Vicissitudes of fortune, the fiery Tryals and Melancholly Disasters they may have to encounter.
The Town of Boston early instituted an annual Oration on the fourth of July, in commemoration of the Principles and Feelings which contributed to produce the Revolution. Many of those Orations I have heard, and all that I could obtain I have read. Much Ingenuity and Eloquence appears upon every Subject, except those Principles and Felings. That of my honest and amiable Neighbour, Josiah Quincy, appeared to me, the most directly to the purpose of the Institution. Those Principles and Feelings ought to be traced back for Two hundred Years, and Sought in the history of the Country from the first Plantations in America. Nor Should the Principles and Feelings of the English and Scotch towards the Colonies, through that whole Period ever be forgotten. The Perpetual discordance between British Principles and Feelings and those of America, the next year after the Suppression of the French Power in America, came to a crisis, and produced an Explosion.
It was not till After the Annihilation of the French Dominion in America, that any British Ministry had dared to gratify their own Wishes, and the desire of the Nation, by projecting a formal Plan for raising a national Revenue from America by Parliamentary Taxation. The first great manifestation of this design, was by the Order to carry into Strict Executions those Acts of Parliament which were well known by the Appelation of the Acts of Trade, which had lain a dead Letter, unexecuted for half a Century, and Some of them I believe for nearly a whole one.
This produced, in 1760 and 1761, An Awakening and a Revival of American Principles and Feelings, with an Enthusiasm which went on increasing till in 1775 it burst out in open Violence, Hostility and Fury.
The Characters, the most conspicuous, the most ardent and influential, in this Revival, from 1760 to 1766, were;—First and Foremost, before all, and above all, James Otis; Nex to him was Oxenbridge Thatcher; next to him Samuel Adams; next to him John Hancock; then Dr Mayhew, then Dr Cooper and his Brother. Of Mr Hancock’s Life, Character, generous Nature, great and disinterested Sacrifices, and important Services if I had forces, I Should be glad to write a Volume. But this I hope will be done by Some younger and abler hand. Mr Thatcher, because his Name and Merits are less known, must not be wholly omitted. This Gentleman was an eminent Barrister at Law, in as large practice as anyone in Boston. There was not a Citizen of that Town more universally beloved for his Learning, Ingenuity, every domestic & Social Virtue, and Conscientious Conduct in every Relation of Life. His Patriotism was as ardent as his Progenitors had been, ancient and illustrious in this Country. Hutchinson often Said “Thatcher was not born a Plebeian, but he was determined to die one.” In May 1763, I believe, he was chosen by the Town of Boston One of their Representatives in the Legislature, a Colleague with Mr Otis, who had been a Member from May 1761, and he continued to be reelected annually till his Death in 1765, when Mr Samuel Adams was elected to fill his place, on the Absence of Mr Otis, then attending the Congress at New York. Thatcher had long been jealous of the unbounded Ambition of Mr Hutchinson, but when he found him not content with the Office of Lieutenant Governor, the Command of the Castle and its Emoluments, of Judge of Probate for the County of Suffolk, a Seat in his Majesty’s Council in the Legislature, his Brother-in-Law Secretary of State by the Kings Commission, a Brother of that Secretary of State a Judge of the Superiour Court and a Member of Council, now in 1760 and 1761, Soliciting and accepting the Office of Chief Justice of the Superior Court of Judicature, he concluded as Mr. Otis did, and as every other enlightened Friend of his Country did, that he Sought that Office with the determined Purpose of determining all Causes in favour of the Ministry at Saint James’s and their Servile Parliament.
His Indignation against him henceforward, to 1765, when he died, knew no bounds but Truth. I Speak from personal Knowledge and will  For, from 1758 to 1765, I attended every Superiour and  Court in Boston, and recollect not one in which he did not invite me home to Spend several Evenings with him, when he made me converse with him as well as I could on all Subjects of Religion, Morals, Law, Politicks, History, Phylosophy, Belle letters Theology, Mythology, Cosmogeny, Metaphysicks, Lock, Clark, Leibnits, Bolinbroke, Berckley, the Preestablished Harmony of the Universe, the Nature of Matter and Spirit, and the eternal Establishment of Coincidences between their Operations; Fate, foreknowledge, absolute—and we reasoned on Such unfathomable Subjects as high as Milton’s Gentry in Pandemonium; and We undestood them as well as they did, and no better. To such mighty Mysteries he added the News of the day, as the Little Tattle of the Town. But his favourite Subject was Politicks, and the impending threatening System of Parliamentary Taxation and Universal Government over the Colonies. On the Subject he was So anxious and agitated that I have not doubt it occasioned his premature death. From the time when he argued the question of Writts of Assistance to his death, he considered the King, Ministry, Parliament and Nation of Great Britain as determined to now model the Colonies from the Foundation; to annul all their Charters, to constitute them all Royal Governments; to raise a Revenue in America by Parliamentary Taxation; to apply that Revenue to pay the Salaries of Governors, Judges and all other Crown Officers; and after all this, to raise as large a Revenue as they pleased to be applied to National Purposes at the Exchequer in England; and farther to establish Bishops and the whole System of the Church of England, Tythes and all, throughout all British America. This System, he Said, if it was Suffered to prevail would extinguish the Flame of Liberty all over the World; that America would be employed as an Engine to batter down all the miserable remains of Liberty in Great Britain and Ireland, when only any Semblance of it was left in the World. To this System he considered Hutchinson, the Olivers and all their Connections dependants, adherents, Shoelickers—and another Epithet with which I shall not pollute my , to be and entirely devoted. He asserted that they were all engaged, with all the Crown Officers in America and the Understrapors of the Ministry in England, in a deep and treasonable Conspiracy to betray the Liberties of their Country, for their own private personal and family Aggrandisement. His Philippecks against the unprinipled Ambition and Avarice of all of them, but especially of Hutchinson, were unbridled; not only in private, confidential Conversations, but in all Companies and on all Occasions. He gave Hutchinson the Sobriquet of “Summa Polestatis,” and rarely mentioned him but by the Name of “Summa.” His Liberties of Speech were no Secrets to his Enemies. I have Sometimes wondered that they did not throw him over the Barr, as they did Soon afterwards Major Hawley. For they hated him worse than they did James Otis or Samuel Adams, and they feared him more,—because they had no Revenge for a Father’s disappointment of a Seat on the Superiour Bench to impute to him as they did to Otis; and Thatcher’s Character through Life had been So modest, decent, unassuming—his Morals So pure, and his Religion so venerated, that they dared not  attack him. In his Office were educated to the Barr two eminent Characters, the late Judge Lowell and Josiah Quincy, aptly called the Boston Cicero. Mr Thatcher’s frame was Slender, his Constitution delicate. Whether his Physicians overstrained his Vessels with Mercury, when he had the Small Pox by Inoculation at the castle, or whether he was Overplyed by publick Anxieties & Exertions, the Small Pox left him in a Decline from which he never recovered. Not long before his death he Sent for me to commit to my care Some of his Business at the Barr. I asked him Whether he had Seen the Virginia Resolves. “Oh yes.—They are Men! They are noble Spirits! It kills me to think of the Leathargy and Stupidity that prevails here. I long to be out. I will go out. I will go out. I will go into Court, and make a Speech which Shall be read after my death as my dying Testimony against this infernal Tyrany they are bringing upon us.” Seeing the violent Agitation into with it threw him, I changed the subject as Soon as possible, and retired. He had been confined for Some time. Had he been abroad among the People he would have complained So pathetically of the “Lethary and Stupidity that prevailed,” for Town and Country were all Alive; and in August became active enough and Some of the People proceeded to unwarantable Excesses, which were nted by the Patriots than by their Enemies. Mr Thatcher Soon died, deeply lamented by all the Friends of their Country.
Another Gentleman who had great influence in the Commencement of the Revolution, was Doctor Jonathan Mayhew, a descendant of the ancient Governor of Martha’s Vineyard. This Divine had raised a great Reputation, both in Europe and America by the publication of a Volume of Seven Sermons in the Reign of King George the Second, 1748, and by many other Writings, particularly a Sermon in 1750, on the thirtieth of January, On the Subject of Passive Obedience and Non Resistance, in which the Saintship and Martyrdom of King Charles the first are considered, Seasoned with Witt and Satyre, Superior to any in Swift or Franklin. It was read by every Body, celebrated by Friends, and abused by Enemies. During the Reigns of King George the first and King George the Second, the Reigns of the Stewarts, the Two Jameses, and the two Charleses were in general disgrace in England. In America they had always been held in Abhorrence. The Persecutions and Cruelties Suffered by their Ancestors under those Reigns, had been transmitted by History and Tradition, and Mayhew Seemed to be raised up to revive all their Animosity against Tyranny, in Church and State, and at the Same time to destroy their Bigotry, Fanaticism and Inconsistency or David Hume’s plausible, elegant, facinating and fallacious Apology in which he varnished over the Crimes of the Stewarts had not then appeared. To draw the Character of Mayhew would be to transcribe a dozen Volumes. This transcendant by choices threw all the Weight of his great Fame into the Scale of his Country in 1761, and maintained it there with Zeal and Ardour till his death in 1766. In 1763 Appeared the Controversy between him and Mr Apthorp, Mr Caner, Dr. Johnson and Archbishop Secker on the Charter and Conduct of the Society for propagating the Gospels in foreign Parts. To form a Judgment of the debate I beg leave to refer to a Review of the whole, printed at the time, and written by Samuel Adams, though by Some, very absurdly and erroneously ascribed to Mr Apthorp. If I am not mistaken, it will be found a Model of Candour, Sagacity, Impartiality and close correct Reasoning.
If any Gentleman Supposes this Controversy to be nothing to the present purpose, he is grossly mistaken. It Spread an Universal Alarm against the Authority of Parliament. It excited a general and just Apprehension that Bishops and Diocesses and Churches, and Priests and Tythes, were to be imposed upon Us by Parliament. It was known that neither King nor Ministry nor Archbishops could appoint Bishops in America without an Act of Parliament; and if Parliament could Tax Us they could establish the Church of England with all its Creeds, Articles, Tests, Ceremonies and Tythes, and prohibit all other Churches as Conventicles and Sepism Shops.
Nor must Mr Cushing be forgotten. His good sence and Sound Judgment, the Urbanity of his Manners, his universal good Character, his numerous Friends and Connections and his continual intercourse with all Sorts of People, added to his Constant Attachment to the Liberties of his Country, gave him a great and Salutary influence from the beginning in 1760.
Let me recommend these hints to the Consideration of Mr Wirt, whose Life of Mr Henry I have read with great delight. I think, that after mature investigation, he will be convinced that Mr Henry did not “give the first impulse to the Ball of Independence,” And that Otis, Thatcher, Samuel Adams Mayhew, Hancock, Cushing and thousands of others were labouring for Several Years at the Wheel before the Name of Mr Henry was heard beyond the limits of Virginia.
If you print this, I will endeavour to Send You Something concerning Samuel Adams, who was destined to a longer Career, and to Add a more conspicuous and, perhaps, a more important Part than any other Man. But his Life would require a Volume. If you decline printing this Letter I pray to return it as Soon as possible to / Sir, your humble Servant
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Jacob Flint, 17 February 1818
From: Flint, Jacob
To: Adams, John

					Cohasset Febry. 17th. 1818

				You may recollect that some time since, your Excellency, speaking of the fisheries in New-England, expressed a curiosity to know the quantity of fish, taken in one season by the people of Cohasset. I told you I would endeavour to ascertain it, & would do myself the honour to communicate an account of to you. I then thought I should be able to do it immediately. But I found, on inquiry, that our Owners had not the means of giving me correct information, as to the quantity, taken in any one past season. They observed, however, that I should receive a correct account of the fish taken in the fishing season of 1815. The following estimate they have lately put into my hands, viz, Of Mackerel, as an average price of 11 dolls pr barrel, 1869 B’ls=$20559Of Herring, at $4 pr B’l90 B’ls=360Of Lobsters, at 4 cents pr L.2000=80Of Cod fish, at $5 pr Q’tl3150=15750Of Boat fish at Do. Do40=200$36949 Clams & Eels taken in considerable quantities, but, not estimated.Owing to the uncommon scarcity of Mackerel, or their neglect of the hook, the season past, our fishermen have not taken so many, by about one third, as at some former seasons. But, the deficiency in quantity has been made good by the enhanced price the fish have commanded in the Market. If all the towns in the Commonwealth, equally well situated as Cohasset, for pursuing the fish, had done as much only, as the business, in proportion to their population, it would have furnished to the state no inconsiderable means of wealth. The citizens cannot, I think, reflect on the benefits of the fisheries, particularly that of the banks, without feeling  how much they owe to the past agency of the Venerable Patriot, who has been their most eminent & available advocate. The fishermen have done well the past season, for themselves & families; and were it not for the great deduction, which ardent spirits make, from their income, that class of citizens here, & in every part of New England, might soon know what it is to be “full & abound”. Could your Excellency devise a plan to deliver your Country from its servitude to the distilleries, & be as successful in the execution, as you formerly were in delivering it from the British yoke, in securing its fisheries & other advantages of independence, you would add much to that debt of gratitude, which your Country has long owed, & will never cease to owe to your Excellency.I am, with great respect & gratitude / Your Obedient & humble / Serv’t

					Jacob Flint

					N.B. The number of tons, in the vessels employed in taking the fish, above specefied, amount to above 500.


Title: To John Adams from William Tudor, Jr., 19 February 1818
From: Tudor, William, Jr.
To: Adams, John

					Dear Sir,
					State House Feby 19th. 1818.

				Though I had no personal views whatever in proposing the Resolve which I had the honor to introduce which went to request you to permit your Bust to be taken for the purpose of being placed in the State House; yet I have thought you might permit me to say a few words on the subject. My motive was a conviction of high state expediency. I intended to follow it with the portraits of those other patriots which were finally proposed by the Senate but I thought myself most certain of success in commencing with you, for the reason that a good sculptor being accidentally here, we had now a casual opportunity of procuring a likeness. as none of the other patriots named are living there is not the same reason for improving the present moment—I have long regretted the apparent indifference with which this State has regarded the glorious patrimony of her part in producing and establishing our immortal revolution. I am most firmly resolved however humble my station may be in public life, so long as I have any place at all, to lose no suitable occasion to bring forward allusions to the Fathers of the country untill their names become “familiar in mens mouths.”I received a few days since a letter from Mr. Otis, in answer to some remarks I made on the subject. It is perhaps a breach of confidence to send it to  you because it was evidently written on the impulse of the moment and not meant to be communicated. but it at once justifies me and shews to you Sir, what is the feeling all highminded men towards you. I can only observe that with respect “to the certainty of success” I had reason to presume upon it because I had assurance of support if needed from more than thirty gentlemen in this house and several in the senate, and if Col. Perkins had not unfortunately been absent, there would have been no difficulty in the other. The objection was, that it was, an improper testimony to a living character; as I trust through the favor of Providence that this objection will long exist, I hope you will meet the wishes of your fellow citizens to place your bust in Faneuil Hall while the legislative Committee are maturing their plan— With the highest respect / I am your hble sert

					W. Tudor jr.


Title: From John Adams to William Tudor, Sr., 21 February 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Tudor, William, Sr.

Dear Sir
Quincy Febur’y 21th., 1818

I presume you have read the elegant life of Patrick Henry by Mr. Wirt the Attorney General of the United States. If you have not you have ju a dilicious pleasure to come. Mr Wirt has accurately stated the Virginian Resolves and Mr Henrys Motion in suport of them and theory of treason that excited against him and a glorious anicdote it is.
But we ought not to forget our own Massachusetts history in the year one thousand seven hundred and sixty two more than three years before the Virginian Resolves. James Otis made one of his most glowing Speeches on the subject of Taxsation and Representation asserting and urging the Constitutional Right and sacred duty of the Representatives of the People scrupulously to attend to every grant and carefully to watch every Appropriation and Expenditure of Publick Money and he moved for a Committee to prepare a Message to the Governor of Remonstrance against certain Expendatures of Publick not authorized by the House. the Committee was apointed and made a Report which contained the following words.
“For it would be of little consequence to the People whether they were subject to George or Louis the King of Great Brittian or the French King if both were arbitrary as both would be if both could levy taxes without Parliment”
When this paragraph was read, in the House, my honest Friend Timothy Paine of Worcester who was Register of Probate and Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in his zeal for Royalty Cryed out, Treason Treason” the House however accepted the Report and sent it to the Governor. Bernard would not accept it but instead of sending the message to the House he wrote a letter to the Speaker first complaining grievously of the expressions in the Message and Canting about the sacred name of the King the Speaker laid this letter before the House who were timourous enough to strike out the offensive Passages.
And oh what a Clamour was raised against Otis though he would for his Disloyalty to his Sovereign.
You see I am obliged to borrow a hand to write every word but the name of your Friend
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to William Tudor, Sr., 25 February 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Tudor, William, Sr.

					Dear Sir
					Quincy Feb. 25. 1818

				As Mr Wirt has filled my head with James Otis; and as I am well informed that The Honourable Mr Benjamin Austin alias Honestus alias Old South alias Old North alias Politicastor roundly asserts that Mr “Otis had no Patriotism”; and that “he acted only from Revenge of his Fathers disapointment of a Seat on the Superior Bench” I will tell you a Story which may make you laugh, if it should not happen to melt you into Tears.Otis belonged to a Clubb, who met on Evenings, of which Clubb William Molineux whose Character you know very well was a Member. Molineux had a Petition before the Legislature which did not Succed to his Wishes and he became for several Evening Sour and wearied the Company with his Complaints of Services, Losses Sacrifices &c and “that a Man who has behaved as I have should be treated as I am is intolerable” &c. Otis had Said Nothing but the Company were disgusted and out of Patience, when Otis rose from his Seat and Said “come come will, quit this Subject and let Us enjoy Ourselves. I also have a List of Grievances. will you hear it?” The Clubb expected Some Fun and all cried out “Aye! Aye! Let Us hear Your List.”“Well then Will, in the first Place I resigned the Office of Advocate General which I held from the Crown which produced me, how much, do you think?” “A great deal, no doubt” Said Molineux. Shall “We Say two hundred Sterling a Year”? “Aye more I believe” Said Molineux. “Well let it be 200. that for ten Years is two thousand. In the next place I have been obliged to relinquish the greatest Part of my Buisness at the Barr. Will you Set that at 200 more”? Oh I believe it much more than that. “Well let it be 200. This for ten Years makes two thousand. You allow then I have lost 4000 £. Sterling” Aye and more too, Said Molineux.“In the next place I have lost an hundred Friends among whom were the Men of the first Rank Fortune and Power in the Province” “At what Price will you estimate them?” “Damn them Said Molinex.” “at nothing.” “You are better without them than with them.” A loud laugh. Be it So Said Otis.“In the next place I have made a thousand Ennemies among whom are all the Government of the Province and the Nation. What do you think of this Item?” That is as it may happen Said Molineux.“In the next Place. You know I love Pleasure But I have renouncd all Amusement for ten Years. What is that Worth to a Man of Pleasure?” No great matter, Said Molineux, You have made Politicks your Amusement. A hearty laugh.In the next Place I have ruined as fine health and as good a Constitution of Body as Nature ever gave to Man. That is Melancholly indeed Said Molinex. There is nothing to be Said upon that Point.“Once more,” Said Otis, holding his head down before Molineux Look upon this head! (Where was a Scarr in which a Man might bury his finger) What do you think of this? And what is worse my Friends think I have a monstrous Crack in my Scull. This made all the company very grave and look very Solemn But Otis Setting up a laugh and with a gay countenance Said to Molineux “Now Willy, my Advice to You is to Say no more about your Grievances; for You and I had better put up our accounts of Profit and loss in our Pocketts and Say no more about them, lest the World Should laugh at Us.”This whimsical Dialogue put all the Company and Molineux himself into good humour, and they passed the rest of the Evening in joyous Conviviality.It is provoking and it is astonishing and it is mortifying and it is humiliating to See, how Calumny Sticks, and is transmitted from age to age. Mr Austin is one of the last Men I Should have expected to have Swallowed that Execrable Lie, that Otis had no Patriotism The Father was refused an Office worth 1200 Old Tenor or about 120 £. Sterling and the Refusal was no loss for his Practice at the Bar was worth much more for Colonel Otis was a Lawyer in profitable Practice and his Seat in the Legislature gave him more Power and more honour; for this Refusal the Son, resign’d an Office which he held from the Crown, worth twice the Sum. The Son must have been a most dutiful and affectionate Child to the Father. Or rather, most enthusiastically and frenzically affectionate.I have been young and now am Old, and I solemnly Say, I have never known a Man whose Love of his Country was more ardent or Sincere; never one, who Suffered So much; never one whose Services for any ten years of his Life, were So important and essential to the Cause of his Country as those of Mr Otis from 1760 to 1770.The Truth is he was an honest Man and a thorough taught Lawyer. He was called upon in his Official Capacity as Advocate General by the Custom house Officers to argue their Cause in favour of Writts of Assistants. These Writts he knew to be illegal, unconstitutional destructive of the Liberties of his Country; a base Instrument of arbitrary Power, and intended as an entering Wedge to introduce unlimited Taxation and Legislation by Authority of Parliament. He therefore Scorned to prostitute his Honour And his Conscience, by becoming a Tool. And he Scorned to hold an Office which could compell him or tempt him to be one. He therefore resigned it. He foresaw as every other enlightened Man foresaw a tremendous Storm coming upon his Country and determined to run all risques, and Share the Fate of the Ship, after exerting all his Energies to Save her, if possible. At the Solicitation of Boston and Salem he accordingly embarked and Accepted the command.To attribute to Such a Character Sinister or trivial Motives is ridiculous.You and Mr Wirt have “brought the old Man out” and I fear he will never be driven in again till he falls into the Grave

					John Adams


Title: From John Adams to William Tudor, Sr., 25 February 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Tudor, William, Sr.

Dear Sir
Quincy Feb 25, 1818

As Mr Wirt had filled my head with James Otis; and I am well informed that the Honourable Mr Benjamin Austin alias Honestus alias Old South alias Old North alias Politicaster roundly asserts that Mr Otis has no Patriotism; and that he acted only from revenge of his Fathers disappointment of a Seat on the Superior Bench I will tell you a story which may make you laugh if it should not happen to melt you into tears
Otis belonged to a Clubb, who met on evenings, of which Clubb, William Molineux whose character you know very well was a member Molineux had a petition before legislature which did not succeed to his Wishes and he became for several evenings Sour and wearied the Company with his Complaints of Services, Losses, Sacrifices, and that a man who has behaved as I have should be treated as I am is intolerable &c &c &c Otis had said nothing but the company were disgusted and out of patience, when Otis rose from his seat and said come come will, quit this subject and let us enjoy ourselves I also have a list of grievances will you hear it? The Clubb expected some Fun and all cried out Aye! Aye! Let us hear your List.
Well then Will in the first place I resigned the office of Advocate General which I held from the crown which produced me how much, do you think. A great deal no doubt said Molineux shall we say two hundred Sterling a year. Aye more I believe said Molineux Well let it be 200 that for ten years is two thousand. In the next place I have been obliged to relinquish the greatest Part of my business at the Barr. Will you set that at 200 more Oh I believe it much more than that Well let it be two hundred This for ten years makes two thousand you allow then I have lost 4000£ Sterling Aye and more too said Molineux.
In the next place I have lost an hundred Friends among whom were the men of the first Rank, Fortune, and Power in the Province at what price will you estimate them? Damn them said Molineux at Nothing You are better without them than with them. A loud laugh Be it so said He.
In the next place I have made a thousand enemies among whom are all the government of the province and the nation what do you think of this item? That is as it may happen said Molineux
In the next place You know I love pleasure but I have renounced all amusement for ten years What is that worth to a Man of pleasure? No great Matter, Said Molineux you have made Politicks your amusement a hearty laugh.
In the next place I have ruined a fine health and as good a constitution of as nature ever gave to man That is Melancholy indeed said Molineux There is nothing to be said upon that point Once more said Otis holding his head down before Molineux Look upon this head! (Where was a Scarr in which a man might bury his finger) What do you think of this And what is worth my Friends think I have a monstrous crack in my Scull.
This made all the company very grave and look very Solemn But Otis setting up a laugh and with a gay countenance said to Molineux Now Willy my advice to you is to say nothing more about your grievances, for you and I had better put up our accounts of profit and loss in out Pocketts and say no more about them lest the world should laugh at us.
This whimsical Dialogue put all the company and Molineux himself in a good humour and they passed the rest of the evening in joyous conviviality.
It is provoking it is astonishing and it is Mortifying and it is humiliating to See how calumny Sticks and is transmitted from age to age. Mr Austin is one of the last men I should have expected to have swallowed that execrable Lie that Otis has no Patriotism The Father was refused an office that was worth 1200 Old tenor or about 120£ Sterling and the refusal was no loss for his Practice at the Bar was worth much more for Colonel Otis was a Lawyer in profitable practice and his seat in the Legislature gave him more power and more honour for this refusal the Son resigned an Office which he held from the crown worth twice the sum. The Son must have been a most dutiful and affectionate Child to the Father Or rather or not enthusiastically and frintically affectionate
I have been young and now old and I solemnly say I have never known a man whose love of his Country was more ardent and Sincere; never one who Suffered as much never one whose services for any ten years in his life were so important and essential to the cause of his Country as those of Mr Otis from 1760 to 1770.
The Truth is he was an honest man and a thorough taught lawyer He was called upon in his Official Capacity as Advocate General by the custom house Officers to argue their Cause in favour of Writts of Assistants. These Writs he knew to be illegal, unconstitutional, destructive of the liberties of his Country. A base instrument of arbitrary power and intended as an entering Wedge to introduce unlimited taxation and legislation by Authority of Parliament. He therefore Scorned to prostitute his honour and his conscience by becoming a Tool. And he Scorned to hold an office which could compell him or tempt him to be one. He Therefore resigned it He foresaw as every other enlightened man foresaw a tremendous storm coming upon his Country and determined to run all risques and Share the fate of the Ship after exerting all his energies to save her if possible At the solicitation of Boston and Salem he accordingly embarked and accepted the command.
To attribute to such a character Sinister or trivial motives is ridiculous
You and Mr Wirt have brought the old man out and I fear he never will be drawn again till he falls into the grave

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Committee of Citizens Boston, 1 March 1818
From: Boston, Committee of Citizens
To: Adams, John

					Sir,
					Quincy, 1, March, 1818

				Being deputed by  a numerous body of our fellow citizens of Boston, we have to request that  you would permit a Marble bust of you to be executed by an able artist now resident in that Town to be placed in Faneueil HallIn thus soliciting your assent to this tribute of our high respect and veneration we are particularly influenced by a desire of transmitting to our children the features of the man whose patriotic energies were so strenuously exerted for the independance and happiness of our common country: And that future ages while contemplating the object, may recall the virtues, patriotism and courage of one of the founders and statesmen of the American republics.


Title: To John Adams from François Adriaan Van der Kemp, 2 March 1818
From: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan
To: Adams, John

Dear and respected Sir!
Oldenbarneveld 2 March 1812. 1818

It is not before now, that I can answer your favour of the  18 last—My daughter, who fully Sympathises with my feelings, and knows, how highly I value every line, with which you continue to honour me, Send it to Albany, and last week it was returned here. I was there to examine the Dutch Records of last cent—and finally engaged to try, if I could translate—them—I declined the first proposal of the Gov. but the renewed entreaties with the courteous encouragement, every point being left to me—the allowance made—that I might take these under my own roof—with the encouraging entreaties of Several high respected frends, induced me at last to comply—I dare not answer for the issue, but So much condescension has been used—the arduous task was So unexpected as unsolicited, that I deemed it a duty, to run the risk. I have broken the ice—and begin to hope that with God’s assistance, if life and Strenght is Spared, I Shall accomplish this gigantic undertaking. The whole is nearly 40 vol. in Fol.
I have not yet arrived at that Summit, which my respected frend has reached—I can not be Silent when any blessings fall to my Share, and indulge me Self freely in unbosoming my griefs to a frend—and I know you will indulge this weakness—which I Shall never be able to Subdue—and you will permit me to doubt, that your ascendance in this regard is So complet, that you Should have become indifferent, either the cup of bliss or that of Sorrow is put in your hands—and was this even So—that you Soared So high—then yet you would Share in the grief—you could not conceal the torturing pangs of your Soul, when the friend of your bosom—She—dearer to you than life, when the man, whom you honoured with your confidence, and affectionate esteem, were Sinking in distress.
Within one month I lost three high valued frends—Col. Walker—Dr Whistar and mr Braÿ—I assisted the second—the two last days—of his useful life,—I was unprepared for the blow—as it was unexpected—ere long—my Dear frend—I remain—alone—in the Wilderness—how dreadful is Such a prospect—but more horrible yet would have been my Situation, had I never met with hearts, who could reciprocate—what I felt for them. Mr Tyng communicated the last tiding, when the former wounds were yet open—He is again in Boston—and to you Sir! I am in part indebted—for the deep interest, he is pleased to take in my welfare. I enjoy again health—though I met again at Albany with a hair-bredth escape from break my leg. It is nearly healed.
I regret with you the divisions and Subdivisions of your Scientific societies in in finitum—in lieu of promoting—they obstruct their course—Here every county is willing to enter the list, and the example of one town or village is only wanting, to create a whole host of Seminaries of vanity, whose ephemeridal Scribblers chiefly are in Servient for the benefit of paper mills I do not urge—my Dear frend! fresh expences in my behalf—but you can not well withold from me—vol iii—as you ordered your Nephew—to procure it for me on your account, and John Adams, would not give way to the best Persian king—and even, could he be tempted on the reflection, that I had received already So many proofs of his goodwill—then yet I would claim this last as my due, and Solicit the irresistible patronage of your Ladÿ—to plead my cause—Say—let Sam: Eliot be my Successor! and he Shall deem it—a distinguished favour—if I Say it. I am reading the elegant Fracastonius—and was Surprised—to discover—that Dr Astruc—without him—never would have boasted of a Specific—in lue venerea—It is a Lating nearly approaching the Augustan age—He mentions the Sinking of Atalantis in a gulph—and the grandia Quadrupedantum corpora perishing—alas! poor mammoth!
A considerable detachment of Italian Novelists and Poëts must then pass the review—which reinforcement I owe to frend Busti—So that I have not much time, to regret the late loss of a box from Europe—having yet enough.
I did See with pleasure, that our ministers of State do not imitate the President, and Speaker—in Sumptuous dinners: It is a frail machine, which requires Such props, and it must be an exquisite delight for you and your Ladÿ—to know one, who would—Scorn to command popular applause, if only obtainable by Similar means.
That you may not Suspect me as an importune—must I Say—beggar or Solicitor, I will not even request you, to remember me to your Lady—Since the last proofs of her affectionate regard, by which I have been honoured, but dare assert, that I must remain—as longe I breathe / Dear and Respected Sir! / Your most obed. and oblig. frend!

Fr. Adr. van der Kemp


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Dawes, 7 March 1818
From: Dawes, Thomas
To: Adams, John

					Dear Sir,
					Boston 7th. march 1818

				I had this day an opportunity to examine our Town Records. In May 1765 the representatives chosen were James Otis, Thomas Cushing, Oxenbridge Thacher and Thomas Gray.In May 1766 were chosen James Otis, Thomas Cushing, Samuel Adams and John Hancock.I am very respectfully

					Thomas Dawes.

					PS. I have read Mr. Wirt’s sketches of Mr. Henry and also a review of them in the North American Review for this month. Such a brilliant pen as Mr. W’s should have had truth for its subject; Not that I have any suspicion that he intended to say any thing else—