Title: To John Adams from Robert Montgomery, 24 October 1797
From: Montgomery, Robert
To: Adams, John

Sir
Alicante 24 October 1797

During the Plague at Algiers in July last Mr Barlow wrot me Several letters very pressingly requesting I would Send over some person of my confidence to attend to the buseness of the United States While he should return to Europe as was absolutely necessary for him at that period. I had then no person I could depend on but my own Nephew Mr George Clark, from whom I have Just received the Original Treaty of Peace with the Bey of Tunis in the Arabic and French languages, a Copy of the latter you will please find herewith, which being the first made out in your Presidentship I hope will plead my excuse for the liberty of addressing you with it. The Original I hold at the disposal of Colonel Humphreys whos Orders respecting it I expect from Madrid
May you finish your precedency in happiness and peace with all mankind is the constant prayer of / Dear Sir / Your affectionate and / Very humble Servant

Robt Montgomery


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 26 October 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Dear Sir
East Chester Octr. 26. 1797

I have to thank you, for the Summary in your Letter of the 23d. of the dispaches from Mr Pinckney, Mr Murray, Mr Bulkley &c.
Mr Murray arrived in Season to renew his old Friendship with his Predecessor. They had spent Some weeks together at the Hague, more than a dozen years ago. Mr Adams had an opportunity to introduce Mr Murray to his Friends and to communicate to him the train of Affairs, an Advantage, which Mr Murray earnestly wished, before he Sailed from Philadelphia.
Mr Pinckney has been well acquaint with Mr Gerry. They have always been upon terms of friendship: and I doubt not he will be as well pleased, as if Mr Dana had accepted.
Poor Portugal has been intimidated into concessions, as humiliating to herself, as pernicious to the World. I am not Surprised, that Mr. Marbois should wish, that Col. Pickering had not pushed the point of gratitude so far.—He may well be surprised, and ought to be grateful, that his own Letter to Vergennes was not quoted at full length. Nothing could have better illustrated the question of gratitude.
My youngest Son Thomas Boylston Adams has been in Paris, and instead of being ordered out of France, as our Jacobinic papers boasted he accepted the day before he returned, a polite invitation to dine with one of the Directors, Citizen Carnot, by whom he was civilly treated, and urged to endeavour to reconcile the two Countries. He was admitted and had a convenient Seat assigned him at the Ceremony of drawing the Lot, for the Director who was to vote out. In short, he was treated, with great distinction. I am disappointed in my hopes of seeing him this season. His Brother who is a little disconcerted at his removal to Berlin (which he says is in the heart of Germany, where he Shall not See an American in a year) has taken Advantage of it, to insist upon his company So earnestly that I think he will prevail, and I must remain another year at least, forlorn.
We must prepare as exact a Statement, as our intelligence will justify, of the position of our Agents civil and military, on the Mississippi, and of the disposition of the Spaniards and Inhabitants towards them, to be inserted in the Speech.
And, pray give me your opinion explicitly, whether, from the prevalence of contagious Sickness in Philadelphia, or the existence of any other Circumstances, it would be hazardous to the Lives or health, of the members of Congress, to meet in that City, on the Second monday in november.
If I Should not issue a Proclamation convening Congress, at New York, I Shall take you by the hand in Trenton the first week in november, in my Way, to Philadelphia. I am, Dear Sir with great regard yours

John AdamsI return you Guardian Noels Speech to his helpless Ward.


Title: To John Adams from John Parrish, 26 October 1797
From: Parrish, John
To: Adams, John

Philadelphia 26st: of the 10th. month 1797

Observing in the public Prints under New York heads of the 17st instant that “the President of the United States intended honouring the Theatre in Johns Street with his presence, and that a Box was engaged for his reception”—
My mind was led into serious reflection on the influence of Example so conspicuous as that the Chief Ruler filling the highest Station of Confidence and respect in Government, should in any degree countenance or encourage such Scenes of Vanity and dissipation, which however artfully disguised with a plausible shew of Morality, do most powerfully tend to deprave the minds of the People, laying waste the fear of the Lord and sincere relish for the solemn duty of Divine worship, leading to infidelity, lewdness and profanity, which tho’ secretly must eventually be subversive of the Civil welbeing of the Community at large; for it is Righteousness and a love to true Religion which alone exalts a Nation or Country.—
The first Congress in a time of trouble and difficulty, sensible of the value of an unfeigned adherence to the salutary restrictions of Piety and Christian temperance, did on behalf of themselves and those they represented firmly agree under the sacred ties of Virtue, Honour and love of their Country, to discountenance and discourage every species of extravagancy and dissipation, Plays and other expensive entertainments and diversions.—
No doubt thou art well acquainted with History and the just abhorence entertained by the primitive Christians respecting the pernicious unhappy effects produced thro’ an attachment to sensual gratifications and frequenting places of corrupting amusement, which tho ancient still retain the validity and cogency of sound reason.—I am sensible of the arduous engagement and almost incessant pressure resulting from the weight of business and extensive Concerns which necessarily claim thy attention, yet could not feel a peaceful relief to my mind without suggesting to thy consideration the necessity and importance of supporting the exalted dignity of thy Station by a reverent regard to the honour of God and a virtuous unshaken Contempt of every Species of Dissipation, which I am persuaded would Conduce to thy present Satisfaction, and in the End the fruition of that Peace which results from a consciousness of having done well according to the ability received—
That this may be fully manifested in they experience is the fervent desire of they real friend—

John Parrish


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 27 October 1797
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir
East Chester Octr. 27. 1797

I last night received your favour of the 22d and thank you for your Sentiments, with which in general I very well agree.
At the Same time I recd your other Letter of the Same Date with its Inclosures all of which I return to you with this.—I thank you Sir for your indefatigable Attention to all these Subjects. The Letters and Instructions to the Officers especially to General Wilkinson appear to me to be all well weighed, and judiciously decided.
I Shall observe to put my name, on my Letters in future as you desire. Mr Malcom omitted it by Mistake, in one instance only I believe.
My Servants are returned to Philadelphia and found the House in order, notwithstanding two unsuccessful attacks upon it.—
I, am, Dear Sir your humble servant

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 27 October 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Dear Sir
East Chester Octr. 27. 1797

I have recd your Favour of the 24th. and thank you for your careful attention to the distemper in Philadelphia. Representaions Similar to yours are sent me from various quarters. That there would be considerable public Inconvenience, in a Convention of Congress to any place out of Philadelphia, is certain, and this consideration has great Weight:—that there would be much popular Clamour, at least much low snarling, among the Inhabitants of the foul dens in Philadelphia, is very probable.—This however would have little Weight with me, against a measure of general Necessity or Expediency. Mr McHenry and Mr Pickering are of your opinion and this Union will have more Weight than all the Branches of Philadelphia, even tho they should be countenanced by the prudent Citizens.
Your Conjectures concerning the Success of our Envoys to France, appear to me to be very probable.—yet I cannot apprehend so much from the personal Feelings of Talleyrand. He received a great deal of cordial Hospitality in this Country and had not the Smallest reason to complain, that ever came to  my Knowledge in any Place. As a reasonable Man he could not but approve of the Presidents caution, knowing himself to be upon the List of Emigrants, and knowing the Clamour which would be raised by the French Minister, at the Presentation of an illustrious Frenchman, by any other than himself.
It is part of the Duty of an Ambassador, to judge of the Persons among his Countrymen, whom it would be proper to present to Government. It would have been a Slight at least to the French Minister to have recd a Man, he had refused to present. It would have been offensive to the Government of France to have recd a Man proscribed by their Laws.
There is however little immediate Advantage to be expected  from this Embassy, I fear.—It will be spun out, into an immeasurable Length, unless quickened by an Embargo.
We must unshackle our Merchant Ships. If Congress will not do it, I shall have Scruples about continuing the Restriction upon the Collectors.
What the Session of Congress will produce I know not. But a Torpor, a Despondency, has Seized all Men in America as well as Europe. The System of Terror has according to an Indian Expression “put Petticoats on them.” The Treachery of the common People, against their own Countries, the transports with which they Seize the opportunity, of indulging their Envy, and gratifying their revenge against All whom they have been in the habit of looking up to, at every hazard to their Countries, and in the End, at every Expence of misery to themselves, has given a paralytic stroke to the Wisdom and Courage of Nations.
If Peace is refused to England, they will leap the gulph. Their Stocks are not much higher than those of the French.—The latter I see, in some Speech in the Council of 500 have been at forty.—Can those be the general Mass of the French national Debt, old as well as new?
The French Directory, I take it for granted must have War. War, open, or understood is their eternal doom.
I am Dear Sir with unalterable Esteem / your humble Sert
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Charles Lee, 27 October 1797
From: Lee, Charles
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Alexandria 27th. october 1797

Yesterday I had the honor to receive your letter of the 15th.
Supposing the cold of winter in the climate at Philadelphia to be an antidote to the Yellow Fever as the experience of 1793 seems to warrant, I am of opinion that Congress may hold its next session at Philadelphia without danger to the health or lives of the members. But if at this time it may be too hazardous yet a proclamation for changing the place of Session may be deferred with propriety till eight days before the time appointed by law, when it may perhaps be better ascertained whether the Legislators may safely meet there.
By the next mail I will endeavour to comply with the other part of your commands.
With the most perfect respect I remain / your most obedient humble Servant

Charles Lee


Title: From John Adams to John Neilson, 31 October 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Neilson, John

Gentlemen
East Chester October 31st 1797

Least there should be any misunderstanding relative to the Rime of my being at New Brunswick, I think it necessary to inform you that it is my Intention to be in your City before two oclock on Wednesday next Week, that is on the Eighth of November, and on that Day I should be happy to accept of the inhabitants polite and obliging Invitation of the Inhabitants of your City, The Weather, at this Season of the year is So precarious that I wish to be on my Way to Philadelphia, as early in the Week as may be convenient, and for that reason among others I have fixed on Wednesday in preference to Thursday.—I am with great / Respect Gentlemen your most / Obliged and Obedient humble / Servant

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 31 October 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

9
Dear Sir
East Chester October 31st 1797

I received your favour of the 28th. Inclosed are Some Papers I received from the City of Washington. They are Duplicates of Such as I received Several Weeks ago. I have delayed an Answer because I was not Satisfied and wished to take Advice.—After you have examined them I wish for your Opinion, 1st. whether I ought to Sign the Warrant of Attorney without limitation of time. 2d. Whether the Power ought not to be to Scott Thornton and White and their Successors in the Office of Commissioners. The Papers, you will please to return to me with your Advice.—
I thank you for, another Abridgment of the public Dispatches. Are you not misinformed concerning La Forest. I have understood that he is in Philadelphia and that he arrived there this last Summer in the questionable Shape of an unaccredited Charge Des Affaires.
Talleyrand, I should Suppose could not be for War with this Country: nor can I apprehend that even the Triumvirate, as they begin to be called in France, will be for a measure so decided. A Continued Appearance of Umbrage, and continued Depredations on a weak defenceless Commerce, will be much more convenient for their Views.—
By all the public Papers I received from abroad it appears, that the state of Things at present in France is exactly as I have many times written to particular Friends in Europe, The Executive Directory is divided into a Party of three and a Party of two.—The two are the most popular, coincide best with the public Opinion and agree with a Majority in both Houses of the Legislature. This drives the three to the Necessity of courting the Army and the Populace. And the question between three and the two can be decided only by a civil War. The worst Evil that can happen in any Government is a divided Executive, And as a plural Executive must from the Nature of Man be forever divided this is a demonstration, that a plural Executive is a great Evil and incompatible with Liberty. That Emulation in the human heart which produces Rivalries of Men Cities and Nations, which produce almost all the good in human life produces also almost all the Evil. This is my Philosophy of Government. The great Art lies in managing this Emulation. It is the only Defence against its own Successes Excesses. The Emulation of the Legislative and Executive Powers should, be made to controul each other. The Emulation between the Rich and the poor among the People, should be made to check itself by ballancing the two Houses in the Legislature which represent those two Classes of Society so invidious at all times against each other.
But instead of three Lines which I intended to write you, I have slided into a pedantical Lecture upon Government for which I beg your Pardon.—
With great Esteem and regard / yours &c

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from William Vans Murray, 31 October 1797
From: Murray, William Vans
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir,
The Hague 31. Octr. 1797.

I have the honour of enclosing for you some of the Annales Politiques. Those of past of August & September went under a blank some time since; others at different times I have done myself the honour of transmiting to you Sir—accompany’d by a few lines.
By a letter which I have just received from Mr. Adams, the minister to Berlin, he was on the 26th. inst. at Hamburgh on his way to Berlin.
On the 21 inst. the commissioners were not received and Mr. M. says in a very short letter that he does not expect they will be—& that he daily expects an order for them all to quit the Republic.
In consequence of the Peace between the Emperor & France a vast force is liberated & is to act against England. France will thus take all the objects in detail—Among them the United States—His treatment of Venice is a direful lesson indeed to all states & parties who claim and admit the aid in pursuit of either reform, or of ambitious projects of a personal sort.
I have the honour to be / with profound respect / Sir / Yrs most faithfully

W. V. Murray


Title: Memorandum of Letter to Commissioners of New Brunswick NJ, 31 October 1797
From: Adams, John
To:

ca. 31 October 1797

To be answered–John NeilsonCornels Tenbroock} Committee from New BrunswickSaml ClarksonJacob H. Butnam} No 5 Courtland Street—respecting an Escort from Newark—Coll Hunt.


Title: To John Adams from William Vaughan, October 1797
From: Vaughan, William
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
ca. October 1797

In case you should not have known Mr Masson the Gentleman who will be the Bearer of these lines permit me to request your attention and civilities to him and to his pursuits. He is Botanist to the King and has been sent out with the express desire of his Majesty for the purpose of Botanical pursuits in the interior parts of America that have been little frequented by professional men. He unfortunately lost all his Letters in the Ellice Capt Harvey when she was taken and has now written over to Sir Joseph Banks and his friends to have those letters replaced. It is with pleasure I signify to you the Object of this Tour from the persuasion that from your inclination & situation your own werkes would anticipate my requests. From the uncertainty of his address I have taken the liberty of directing some letters for him to your care and I should be much obliged to you to have them forwarded to him—Should any Specimens or plants be committed to your Care permit me to request your handing them over to my Brother Mr John Vaughan who will forward them to me for the Gardens at Kew. Every arrangement is made to secure here an immediate attention and landing. I beg to be particularly remembered to Mrs. Adams & to Col. & Mrs. Smith—Mr & Mrs Adams favored our family with their Company before they went to Berlin. I am with great respect / Dr sir / Your most obedt / humble serv
Wm. Vaughan


Title: To John Adams from Daniel McCormick, 2 November 1797
From: McCormick, Daniel
To: Adams, John

Sir
New York 2d Novemr 1797

This day I received a letter from Mr. Pitcairn dated at Paris the 24th of August which contains some political information. I therefore take the liberty to enclose you an abstract of his letter.
And am with the Greatest Respect / Sir / Your Most Obedt. Servant
Daniel McCormick
 Enclosure
                                                Paris 24th August 1797
The Commissioners will be at least decently received and have their reasoning examined and replied to—
The Minister is polite and clever, but as to the success of the Mission I own my fears. The quantity of capture and Condemnd property is so great, that the greatness of the Evil will make an obstical to its being redressed.
I think they will endeavour to pay our Cargoes with Political complaints. I am told that some one has presented to the Government here a plan of reclamation. Cassed that America ought to pay France for all the french property which was taken on board our Ships, on the Ground of our not sustaining the principle acknowledged in our Treaty that Neuteral Ships were to make Neuteral goods.
That we are also accountable for all the property Restored to the English Owners in America, on Account of the Privateers not being Legal.
And finaly the expences France came under for the Establishing our Independance. This Article is left open. The other two being sufficient to ballance all the demands we can form against them.
All our Commissioners will obtain will be the appointment of Men to setle the difference and to agree on the Mode of payment according as that may appear due.


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 2 November 1797
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Trenton Novr. 2. 1797

In observance of your directions, I do myself the honor to present to your view such matters as seemed to me proper to be communicated to Congress, at the opening of the approaching session. Some few others may perhaps be added: but in this case they will be prepared in such manner as to require little time to introduce them. If your address should be lengthy, even some of these may be omitted, and afterwards communicated by message.
1. The Commissioners appointed under the fifth article of the treaty of amity, commerce & navigation between the United States and Great Britain, to ascertain what river was truly intended under the name of the river St. Croix, mentioned in the treaty of peace, met at Passamaquoddy Bay, in October 1796, and viewed the mouths of the rivers in question & the adjacent shores & islands; and being of opinion that actual surveys of both rivers to their sources were necessary, gave to the Agents of the two nations instructions for that purpose; & adjourned, to meet at Boston in August, 1797. They met; but the surveys having been found to require more time than was expected, & not being then completed, the Commissioners again adjourned, to meet at Providence in the state of Rhode-Island, in June 1798; when we may look for a final examination and decision.
2. The Commissioners appointed in pursuance of the sixth article of the treaty have met in Philadelphia, in the summer past, to examine the claims of British subjects for debts contracted before the peace, & still remaining due to them from citizens or inhabitants of the U. States. Various causes have hitherto prevented any determinations: but the business will doubtless now be resumed, & prosecuted without interruption. And as the United States are obligated to make compensation for the losses & damages such British subjects have sustained, upon the awards of the Commissioners, it has become necessary for Congress to make adequate provision for the purpose of fulfilling that obligation.
3. Several decisions on the claims of citizens of the United States for losses and damages sustained by reason of irregular or illegal captures or condemnations of their vessels or other property, have been made by the Commissioners in London, conformably to the seventh article of the treaty. The sums awarded by the Commissioners have been paid by the British Government. And as the same principles of justice and equity will form the basis of future decisions, the final result must prove honorable & satisfactory to both nations. A considerable number of other claims, where costs and damages, & not captured property, were the only objects, have been decided by eminent civilians mutually chosen. Their decisions have been very satisfactory, and the sums they awarded to the citizens of the United States have also been paid.
This seventh article of the treaty recognizes losses and damages sustained by British subjects by reason of the capture of their vessels & merchandize taken within the limits and jurisdiction of the U. States and brought into the ports of the same, or taken by vessels originally armed in ports of these States. It is necessary that Congress should make adequate provision for compensating such losses and damages.
4. The Commissioners appointed agreeably to the twenty first article of the treaty between the United States & Spain, have also met at Philadelphia, in the summer past, to examine & decide on the claims of our citizens for losses they have sustained in consequence of their vessels & cargoes having been taken by the subjects of his Catholic Majesty, during the late war between Spain and France. Their sittings have been interrupted: but the cases are not numerous; and the citizens who have suffered may now expect timely decisions after their documents shall have been presented.
5. I am not yet informed that the second and third articles of our treaty with Spain have been executed; or that their execution has been commenced. By the latest official accounts, the Spanish garrisons of the forts at the Natchez and the Walnut Hills had not been withdrawn; nor any Commissioner on the part of Spain presented to join the Commissioner of the United States, who has been waiting at the Natchez since the beginning of March last to begin the running of the boundary line. On the contrary, the garrison at the Walnut Hills has been greatly reinforced; the passage of our citizens on the Mississippi subjected to examination and the formality of passports from the Spanish officers; and the Officer commanding at New-Madrid made a formal protest against the passing of a detachment of the troops of the United States; intimating, at the same time, that the comparative weakness of his garrison alone prevented his using force to prevent their passage.
The detailed information on this subject received since the last adjournment, will be prepared to be laid before Congress in such manner as the President shall direct.
6. The Numerous captures of American vessels by the cruisers of the French Republic and of some by those of Spain, have occasioned considerable expences in making & supporting the claims of our citizens before their tribunals. The sums required for this purpose have in divers instances been disbursed by the Consuls of the United Sates. By means of the same captures great numbers of our seamen have been thrown ashore in foreign countries, destitute of all means of subsistence; and the sick in particular have been exposed to grievous sufferings. The Consuls have in these cases also advanced monies for their relief.—For all these advances they earnestly expect a reimbursement from the United States.
By the Consular Act, twelve cents only are allowed for the daily subsistence of such destitute seamen; an allowance extremely inadequate; and no provision is made for such as are stripped of their cloathing, or for the sick, or for the interment of the dead.
By the same act, a Consul may require American vessels to bring home two (or more according to their tonnage) of our seamen left in a foreign port: but such vessels being entitled to no compensation for the passage of such seamen or the provisions they consume, except the labour of the men, which is seldom wanted, reluctantly take them on board, sometimes refuse, and often evade receiving them. Hence a revision & amendment of the Consular Act appears indispensable, to prevent, in ordinary cases, our seamen being improperly discharged in foreign ports; or when unavoidably so discharged, or otherwise abandoned, to provide adequate means for their return.
Another provision seems necessary to be added to the Consular act. Some foreign vessels have been discovered sailing under the flag of the United States, and with forged papers. It seldom happens that the Consuls can detect this deception, because they have no authority to demand an inspection of the registers & sea-letters.
7. In pursuance of the Act passed in the last winters session, I wrote to the Executives of the several states whose decisions on the proposed amendment of the Constitution respecting the suability of states were unknown. I have received answers from the states of by whom the amendment has been adopted; and from the states of by whom it has not been adopted.
I have the honor to be, / with great respect, / sir, your most obt. servant
Timothy Pickering
P.S. My office papers are packed up for removal to Philadelphia. I am myself obliged to make a journey to Monmouth County in this State, to return on Sunday or Monday.


Title: From John Adams to Chauncey Goodrich, 3 November 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Goodrich, Chauncey

Sir
East Chester November 3d 1797

I thank you for your kind Attention to my Necessities. Will write to Philadelphia to have the Cyder received, and it shall be paid for wherever you please.—
Whoever conveys it to Philadelphia—may deliver it to Mr John Brisler my Steward.—
I am Sir with great Esteem your very / humble Servant

John Adams—


Title: From John Adams to Daniel McCormick, 3 November 1797
From: Adams, John
To: McCormick, Daniel

Sir—
East Chester November 3d. 1797

I thank you for your kind Letter of yesterday and the Abstract inclosed with it.—
I am very much afraid our Friend Mr Pitcairn has his too good Information, and will prove in the End, too correct a Prophet. I am with great Esteem, / Sir / your very humble Servant

John Adams—


Title: To John Adams from Joseph Willard, 3 November 1797
From: Willard, Joseph
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Cambridge November 3d. 1797.

I have taken the liberty of enclosing, for your Son at Berlin, a letter containing a vote of thanks passed by the Corporation of Harvard College, for a very valuable present of his to the Library. As I thought this the most safe and expeditious way of getting the letter to him, I have to request the favor of your transmitting it, and at the same time, must beg you to excuse this freedom.
I wish you, Sir, the divine blessing and direction in your high and most important Station, and the peculiar happiness of finding all your exertions for the public good gratefully acknowledged by your Country, and crowned with abundant success.
I have the honor to subscribe, with sentiments of the highest respect, / Sir, / your most humble / and obedient servant

Joseph Willard


Title: To John Adams from Jonathan Dayton, 5 November 1797
From: Dayton, Jonathan
To: Adams, John

Sir,
New York November 5th 1797

I came to this place last evening under an expectation of having the honor to pay you my respects in person, and of learning from you the day, & as nearly as possible, the hour in which you proposed to enter Elizabeth town in your journey to Philadelphia. Allow me sir, to request of you this information, in which not myself alone, but many others of my townsmen & fellow citizens feel an interest, and that it may be communicated to me by letter, if practicable, by Tuesday’s mail.
In addition to this request, permit me Sir to ask & to hope that you will do me the honor to take up your residence at my house during your stay in Elizabeth town, more especially if this shall be for a night, which your appointment to dine at New Brunswick renders probable, as it will be most convenient. Mrs: Dayton joins very sincerely in asking the same favor from Mrs. Adams, & any ladies who may accompany her, as well on account of the high gratification it will afford us, as with a wish for your more convenient and quiet accommodation, more certainly ensured at a private than a public house.
I have the honor to be sir / with the greatest respect & regard Your most obed. servt.

Jona: Dayton


Title: To John Adams from Rev. William Walter, 6 November 1797
From: Walter, Rev. William
To: Adams, John

Boston 6 Novr. 1797

Your Excellency’s obliging Observations upon your own Letters in defence of the American Constitutions have added to my former satisfactions. If your Defence has not been so extensively read as it ought nor produced those happy Effects which were intended it is not because the work had not an intrinsic Value, but because the Great Events which Time has been unfolding have thrown the Minds of Men into such an hurry & Agitation As has prevented them from siting down to so useful a Study as that which you have pointed out. the Calm which usually succeeds a Storm will be much better adopted to your beneficent views, but hard & precarious is the Contest when Reason undertakes to subjugate the Demands of Interest & Ambition.
I am sorry to be the Messenger of farther Ill Tidings respecting our dear Relation & Friend mrs Gill. I was with her four days, in part of which I thought her fast drawing to the Conclusion of Life, but she revived a little and has continued since then to be slowly but gradually recovering. On Saturday however I had the painful Tidings that a Mortification had taken place in one of her Feet. the Consequence we all know.
With every Sentiment of Respect & Esteem I beg Leave to subscribe myself Your Excellency’s / most Obedt. / and very faithful Servant

W Walter.


Title: From John Adams to American Academy of Arts and Sciences, 8 November 1797
From: Adams, John
To: American Academy of Arts and Sciences

Gentlemen
8 Nov. 1797

Meeting with you at a regular Period established by Law, I expected nothing more, than those habitual Expressions of your friendship, which I have, constantly received, as one of your Associates, upon all Such occasions. This elegant Address, therefore, as it was not foreseen, is the more acceptable Coming from Gentlemen whose fame for Science and Literature as well as for every civil and political Virtue, is not confined to a Single State, nor to one quarter of the World, it does me great honour. Your Congratulations on my Election to the office of first Magistrate in a Nation where the Rights of Men are respected and truly Supported, deserve my best Thanks.
The Commands of the Public, have obliged me to reside in foreign Countries and in distant States, for almost the whole Period of the Existence of our Academy: but no part of my time has ever been spent with more real Satisfaction to myself, than the few Hours, which the course of Events has permitted me to pass in your Society.
Your exertions at home and extensive Correspondencies abroad, are, every day adding to the Knowledge of our Country, and its improvement in Useful Arts: and I have only to regret that indispensable Avocations have prevented me from assisting in your labours and endeavouring to share in the glory of your success.
The Unanimity with which the members of this Academy, as well as of the University at Cambridge and the whole Body of the Clergy of this commonwealth (all so happily connected together) are attached to the Union of our American States, their Constitutions of Government and the Federal Administration, is the happiest omen of the future Peace, Liberty, Safety and Prosperity of our Country. The rising Generation of Americans, the most promising and perhaps the most important Youth, which the human Species can boast, educated in such Principles and under such Examples, cannot fail to answer the high Expectations which the World has formed of their future Wisdom, Virtues and Energies.
To succeed, in the Administration of the Government of the United States, After a Citizen, whose great Talents, indefatigable Exertions, and disinterested Passion, had carried the Gratitude of his Country and the Applause of the World to the highest pitch, was indeed an arduous Enterprize. It was not without much diffidence, and many anxious Apprehensions that I engaged in the service. But it has been with inexpressible gratitude and Pleasure, that I have every where found, in my fellow Citizens, an almost universal disposition to alleviate the burthen; as much as possible, by the cheerful and generous support of their affectionate Countenance and cordial Approbation. Nothing of the kind has more tenderly touched me, than the explicit Sanction you have been pleased to express of the Measures I have hitherto adopted.
Permit me, Gentlemen to join in your fervent Prayers, that the incomprehensible Source of Light and of Power, may direct Us all, and crown with Success, all our efforts to promote the Welfare of our Country and the Happiness of Mankind:
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to John Neilson, 8 November 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Neilson, John

To the Inhabitants of the City of New Brunswick, and its VicinityGentlemen8 Nov. 1797

As The Esteem and Affection of the Inhabitants of the City of New Brunswick, expressed in this Address, are very agreable to me and deserve and they cannot but receive on my Part as they deserve  on my part a cordial return of Affection and Esteem
Your happiness in a Government of Laws, and the Administration of it under the great and good Washington, was common to you and all virtuous Men. Even the very few who imagined or pretended they disliked it, could not but be happy under it. The Satisfaction you express in the Choice of his successor is highly flattering me your approbation of his past Services and Confidence in his political Principles, merit my most strenuous Endeavours to deserve their Continuance.
Your Approbation of my Sentiments relative to our foreign Connections and the Measures We are pursuing, afford me much Consolation, as nothing can contribute so much to their success the Continuance of Peace and the preservation of the honour and dignity of our National Character, as a happy harmony among the People and their Union of Sentiment with the Government.
If the Voice of Faction has been heard, and foreign Influence has made a Progress, if Religious Morality and Patriotism have had much to fear, We have Reason to believe, that this has been due chiefly to surprize and misinformation misrepresentation, aided by a too Sanguine and intemperate ardor for Liberty. The Progress of Inquiry and propagation of true Information, We have great Reason to hope and expect, will put our Countrymen on their guard promote an impartial Spirit of Independence, and a rational spirit of Liberty, and a Sober determination to  preserve their Morals and Support their Religion.
Your noble declaration as Jerseymen and Citizens of the United States in favour of order Government Morals Patriotism and Religion, do you great honour and cannot fail to have a happy Influence and afford a great Encouragement to Similar Resolutions in all parts of the Union.
I have not a doubt Gentlemen that it will be your happy Lott as well as mine to see the People ultimately rally under no other Standard but their own, in Support of the Constitution and defence of their Country.
In return for your pathetic Wishes for the Prosperity of my Administration, and for the final Completion of it, by taking my last Leave of an happy People, which have tenderly affected me, I pray open to accept present you my best Wishes and offer Up my Sincere Prayers for your temporal and eternal felicity.

John AdamsTo the Inhabitants of New Brunswick and its Vicinity.
Gentlemen
The Esteem and Affection of the Inhabitants of the City of New Brunswick, and its Vicinity, expressed in this excellent Address are very flattering to me, and cannot fail to meet with a cordial return of Gratitude, on my part.
The happiness you enjoyed in a Government of Laws, under the great and good Washington was common to you and all virtuous Men in America. Even the very few who imagined, or pretended they disliked it, could not but be happy under it. The Satisfaction You express in the Choice of a Successor; your Approbation of his past Services; and confidence in his political Principles demand his most Strenuous Endeavours to deserve their continuance.
Your Approbation of my Sentiments of our foreign relations, and the measures we are pursuing, afford me much consolation, as nothing can contribute so much to Success, the continuance of Peace, and the preservation of the honour and dignity of our national Character, as a happy harmony among the People, and their Union in Sentiment with the Government.
If the Voice of Faction has been heard, and foreign influence has made a progress, if Religion, Morality and Patriotism have had much to fear: We have reason to believe that this has been chiefly due to Surprize and misrepresentation aided by an Enthusiasm for Liberty too ardent and intemperate. The progress of Inquiry, and circulation of true information, We have great reason to expect, will put our Countrymen on their guard, promote an impartial Spirit of Independence, a rational Spirit of Liberty and a Sober determination to preserve their morals and Support their Religion, without which Patriotism is but a chimera.
Your noble declaration as Jersey Men and Citizens of the United States in favour of order Government, Morals, Patriotism and Religion does you great honour, and cannot fail to have a happy Influence and afford a great Encouragement to Similar resolutions in all parts of the Union.
That it will be your happy Lott as well as mine to See the People rally under their own Standard, in contempt and defiance of all others, in Support of the Constitution and defence of their Country, whenever occasion shall require, I have not the smallest doubt.
In return for your pathetic wishes for the prosperity of my Administration, and for the final completion of it, most devoutly to be wished, by taking my last leave of a happy People, which have tenderly affected me, I present you my best Wishes, and offer up my Sincere Prayers for your temporal and eternal felicity.
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to New Jersey Legislature, 8 November 1797
From: Adams, John
To: New Jersey Legislature

To the Legislative Council and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey
8 Nov. 1797
Gentlemen

I receive this Address from the Legislative Council and General Assembly of New Jersey with a just grateful Sense of the high honour it does me confers upon me
As there is no People whose Attachment to the Principles of a free Representative Government has been more constant and consistent, than that of the Citizens of New Jersey, there is none with whom I could more heartily rejoice, that Elections of a Chief Magistrate have been conducted, without Turbulence or Tumult. And may future Experience always, then demonstrate that Integrity and Ability will always be the Object of the Choice of Freemen
For your kind Compliments to me I present merit you my best Thanks, and Strongest Assurances, that Should any Thing in my Administration, protect your Interests in common with all those of your Fellow Citizens through the Union promote Harmony and Unanimity among the Citizens of these states and friendly Sentiments and Intercourse with all Mankind, I should be the happiest man in the world esteem myself the happiest of Men. In this eventful Period, when the Equilibrium of Society is disadjusted in so great a part of the World and the Passions of Men let loose without restraint or controul, in so great a Part of the World, it behoves Us to well to consider the Situation We are in, and be prepared in our Minds for whatever We may be called by Providence to do or to Suffer in the Cause of honour and Virtue, Religion and Liberty.
Your Sentiment that We must not yeild to dishonour, is So well becomes the Character and dignity of Freemen, that it is very certain there never has been and equally evident there never can be a free People, to whom their honour was is not dearer than their Lives.
As the Citizens of New Jersey have been exceeded by none in their Attachment to the Constitution, your Relyance on the just Administration of the Government is peculiarly honourable and agreable to me.
Accept Gentlemen of my cordial Thanks for your kind Wishes, and an Assurance of my Sincere Prayers for the Felicity of the United States in General, and for the Legislature and Citizens of New Jersey in particular.


Title: To John Adams from John Neilson, 8 November 1797
From: Neilson, John
To: Adams, John

To the President of the United States. The Address of the Inhabitants of the City of New Brunswick and its Vicinity—Sir
New Brunswick 8 Novr. 1797

The Inhabitants of the City of New Brunswick and its vicinity, are highly gratified with this opportunity of expressing to you their Affectionate Esteem.—
Happy in a Government of Laws, and happy in the Administration of it under the great & good Washington, we could not but sincerely rejoice, when the voice of our Country, upon his retirement, gave us, for a Chief Majestrate, a person whose past services had endeared him to his Country, and whose political principles ensured him the Confidence of his fellow Citizens.
The sentiments, Sir, which you have disclosed respecting the duties of the United States, in regard to their foreign relations, while they meet with our unequivocal approbation, are, at the same time, a happy presage that the measures which you are pursuing will terminate in the security of our peace, and in the preservation of the honor and dignity of our national Character—
We have heard, Sir, the voice of faction, and we have abhorred it—We have seen the progress of foreign influence, and we have lamented its pernicious effects—Religion, Morality and Patriotism have had much to fear—But we indulge the pleasing hope, that he who sways the Sceptre of universal nature has not destined the people of this happy Country to work out their own destruction—
With us, As Jerseymen and Citizens of the United States, we are prompted to declare that a love of order and good Government, a sacred regard to moral rectitude, and the same Amor Patrice which so indignantly recoiled at the Idea of foreign domination, still remain undiminished—
May it, Sir, be your happy Lot to see that the people of this Country will rally under no other standard but their own, in support of their Constitution and in defence of the Laws of their Country—
May your administration of our Government be long and prosperous, and when it shall please the great ruler of the Universe to summon you into a more exalted seat in the regions of Eternal bliss, may you retiring, bid adieu to your grateful Country by the pleasing appellation of, happy People.
John NeilsonJohn BayardAnthy: W: WhiteLewis DunhamBy order & in behalf of the Inhabitants of the City of New BrunswickFred. FrelinghuysenArchibald MercerIn behalf of the Inhabitants of the Vicinity of New Brunswick—


Title: To John Adams from George Mathews, 10 November 1797
From: Mathews, George
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Natches Novemr. 10th 1797

After I Left Philada. I posued my Jurney, through the wilderens to the Fawles of Ohio in Kintuck my Stay in that countary was but a Short time So that I cannot say mutch on the poleticks of that country but observed its will Stored with Democrats how Loose no opportunity to cavel at Govarment.
I Left that plase on the 29th of August—and after a pashage of forty five days arived hear on the 12th of Octobr., As you have been aquented with the Situation of this District preyar to my rival, and the Conduct prosued by the Spanish Govarment. I will say nothing on that subjeck, and confine my Self to our present and futar prospecks, had Congress compley with your communication to them and Asteblished a Govarment hear and it Soported by a respectfull military force say five or Six hundred men I have Litil douts but the United States would been in full potion of this countary and the Line of Demarkcation been in opparition, and at present I am Sangin to promies Success if such a meshor is Asteblished by Congress this Section. Not being in Potion of Eney Evedins to Soporte a oppining that provales hear, that is of the Spanish Govarment haveing their Emesareys in Kintucke I Say nothin pirtickler on that Subjeck, and refarr you to Judge Milar for informition on that and mattars in genaril in this district, I hope a respect for the Republick of France and the respect dew to His Cathalik Majesty as thar aley, will not keep the Democrats in Congress from acting with detion respecting the Spanish Tratey for Should Congress rise with out Asteblishing a govarment hear I think thare is fear of the United States Loosing this Countary and it will provably be the fore runar of Kintucke Sharing the Same fate, you will Escuse the freedom of this Scrawl and belve me to be actuated by the Good of our Comin countary
I am Dear Sir with much respect / your Rail Frend & Humle. Sarvt.

Geo. Mathews
NB. Captan Osborn of of this District requsts me to mention him to you for the Matials offices I refarr you to Judge Milar on this mattar.
GM


Title: To John Adams from James Montgomery, 15 November 1797
From: Montgomery, James
To: Adams, John

Sir
Philadelphia Nov 15 1797

As I have not as yet received any Answer to mine of May 6 and June 4th soliciting the return of my vouchers I once more take the Liberty of requesting of your Excellency an answer to them and at the same Time to request you will determine from your own Sense of Justice whether the unmerited attack upon my Character does not call for redress I wish to receive it from you but I must look on it as an indispensable Duty due both, to myself and the Public if I am not to receive any Satisfaction, for the Falshoods alledged against me at Least to Clear myself to my Fellow Citizens who must be at a Loss to account for my Dismission from a Station,  which I have filled with the Strictest Attention, Honour and regard to the Public Good all this I submit to your Excellency’s impartial Consideration and am with every Sentiment of Respect / Your Excellency’s / Most obedient /  Humble Servant

JAmes Montgomery


Title: To John Adams from Benajah Osmun, 15 November 1797
From: Osmun, Benajah
To: Adams, John

The President of the united StatesSir,
Natchez the 15 Nover. 1797

The peculiarity of my Situation at the Extremity of the Empire I persuade my Self will Apolagize for my Addressing the Chief magistrate of my Cuntry Eight Absence from the actual Jurisdiction of the united States has nither lessend my Attachment for there wellfare nor my Reverence for there laws. It is with peculer pleasure therefore that I Anticipate the Actual Exercise of Goverment under Your Immediate Auspices and the American authoraty A long Servis during the Course of our glorious Struggle for independance afforded me a practical lesson respecting the attachment of the ameracan Charector to liberty and I have had for several years to lement that situation did not suffer me to perticepate in the Common advantages that were procuerd by our Common Exertions and fortitude but now I may reasonably flatter my Self that the American Goverment will assume its Self and its Jurisdiction to be Co Extencive with its limet I shall then have the Consolation of Suppourting thoes laws that the wisdom of my fellow Citizens in Congress may think proper to Establish Great indead will be my Satisfaction in finding a Speady and Compleat Assumption of the Ameracan Goverment in this Cuntry and if any thing could then add to my happiness, it would be the honor ones more Entring into the Servis of my Cuntry. A knowlege of the Cuntry dispositions and manners of the people if they may be Considerd as Qualifycations I certainly Possess and I have the vanity to think I may Safely that I am not without the Esteem and Confidence of the inhabitance in general the Appointment of Marshil lying immedately within your nomenation I have with the Confidence and frankness of an old Solder who thinks he deserves of his Cuntry and who had the honor of bearing a Captains Cummissn in her Servis and a Meracan born thought propper to soliset your Patronage. I shall therefore Relying on what I have already observed on the occasion Subscribe myself with the highest Esteem and Respect / Sir your very / humble Servt
Benajah Osmun


Title: From John Adams to Daniel McCormick, 18 November 1797
From: Adams, John
To: McCormick, Daniel

Sir
Philadelphia Novr. 18th 1797—

I received yesterday your favor of the 15th, and thank you for your Extracts from Mr: Pitcairns Letter of the 17th of September—
He seemed to hope and to expect that the Directory would agree to a peace, as a means of quieting the people, for the exertion of the 4th of Septr:— but the directory appear to be of a different opinion—They seem to think that a Continuance of War, abroad, is the best Calculated, to pacify the people at home, and in this opinion I agree with them, Rather than Mr Pitcairn—His other opinions are probable.—his Judgment in the affair of Pastoret was Very sound I beleive.
I am with much Esteem your most Obt / and humble Servant

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to United States Congress, 22 November 1797
From: Adams, John
To: United States Congress

Gentlemen of the Senate and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives
22 Nov. 1797

I was, for sometime apprehensive, that it would be necessary, on account of the contagious Sickness which afflicted the City of Philadelphia, to convene the national Legislature, at Some other place. This measure, it was desireable to avoid,; because it would occasion much public Inconvenience, and a considerable public expence, and add to the calamities of the Inhabitants of this City, whose Sufferings must have excited the Sympathy of all their fellow Citizens. Therefore, after taking measures to ascertain the State and decline of the Sickness, I postponed my determination, having hopes, now happily realized, that, without hazard to the Lives or health of the Members, Congress might assemble at this place, where it was next by Law, to meet. I Submit, however, to your Consideration, whether a Power to postpone the Meeting of Congress without passing the time fixed by the Constitution, upon Such occasions, would not be a Usefull Amendment to the Law of one thousand Seven hundred and ninety four,
Although I cannot yet congratulate you on the re-establishment of Peace in Europe, and the restoration of Security to the Persons and Properties of our Citizens from Injustice and violence at Sea: We have, nevertheless abundant Cause of Gratitude to the Source of Benevolence and Influence for interiour tranquility and personal Security, for propitious Seasons, prosperous Agriculture, productive Fisheries and general Improvements: And above all, for a rational Spirit of civil and religious Liberty, and a calm, but Steady determination to Support our Sovereignty, as well as our moral and religious Principles, against all open and Secret Attacks. our Envoys extraordinary to the French Republick, embarked one in July, the other early in August to join their Colleague in Holland.… I have received Intelligence, which I am inclined to believe authentic, of the Arrival of one both of them at Amsterdam in Holland, from whence they and his Colleague were proceeding to Paris all proceeded on their Journeys to Paris within a few days of the nineteenth of September. … Whatever may be the result of this Mission, I trust that nothing will have been omitted on my part, to conduct the Negotiation to a successfull conclusion, on such equitable terms, as may be compatible with the Safety, honour and Interests of the United States. Nothing in the meantime, will contribute so much to the preservation of Peace, and the Attainment of Justice, as a manifestation of that Energy and Unanimity, of which on many former Occasions, the People of the United States, have given Such memorable proofs, and the Exertion of those Resources, for national defence, which a beneficent Providence, has kindly placed within their Power.
It may be confidently asserted, that nothing has occurred Since the Adjournment of Congress, which renders inexpedient those precautionary measures, recommended by me, to the consideration of the two Houses, at the opening of your late extraordinary Session. If that System was then prudent it is more so now, as increasing depredations Strengthen the reasons for its Adoption.
Indeed whatever may be the issue of the Negotiation with France, and whether the War in Europe is, or is not to continue, I hold it most certain, that permanent Tranquility, and order, will not soon be obtained. The State of Society has so long been disturbed, the Sense of moral and religious Obligation so much weakened, public Faith and national honour have been so impaired, respect to Treaties has been so impaired diminished, and the Law of nations has lost so much of its force: while Pride, Ambition, Avarice and Violence, have been so long unrestrained, there remains no reasonable ground on which to raise an expectation, that a Commerce without protection or defence, will not be plundered. The Commerce of the United States, is essential, if not to their Existence, at least to their Comfort, their growth, prosperity and Happiness. The Genius, Character, and Habits of the People are highly commercial. Their Cities have been formed and exist upon Commerce. Our Agriculture, Fisheries, Arts and Manufactures are connected with and depend upon it. In Short, Commerce has made this Country what it is; and it cannot be destroyed or neglected, without involving the People in Poverty and distress. Great Numbers are directly and Solely Supported by Navigation. The Faith of Society is pledged for the preservation of the rights of commercial and Seafaring no less than of the other Citizens. Under this View of our Affairs, I should hold myself guilty of a neglect of Duty, if I forebore to recommend that we Should make every exertion to protect our Commerce, and to place our Country in a Suitable posture of defence, as the only Sure means of preserving both.
I have entertained an Expectation that it would have been in my Power, at the opening of this session, to have communicated to you the agreable Information, of the due execution of our Treaty with his Catholic Majesty, respecting the withdrawing of his Troops from our territory, and the demarcation of the Line of Limits. But by the latest Authentic Intelligence, Spanish Garrisons were Still continued within our Country, and the running of the boundary Line had not been commenced. These Circumstances are the more to be regretted, as they cannot fail to effect the Indians in a manner injurious to the United States. Still, however, indulging the hope, that the Answers which have been given, will remove the objections offered by the Spanish officers, to the immediate execution of the Treaty, I have judged it proper, that we should continue in readiness to receive the Posts, and to run the Line of Limits. Further Information on this Subject will be communicated in the Course of the session.
In Connection with this unpleasant State of Things on our Western frontier, it is proper for me to mention, the Attempts of foreign Agents, to alienate the affections of the Indian nations, and to excite them to actual hostilities against the United States. Great Activity has been exerted, by these Persons, who have insinuated themselves among the Indian Tribes, residing within the Territory of the United States, to influence them to
The Commissioners appointed under the fifth Article of the Treaty of Amity, Commerce, and navigation, between the United States and Great Britain, to ascertain the River which was truly intended under the name of the River St. Croix, mentioned in the Treaty of Peace, met at Passamaquoddy Bay in October, One Thousand seven hundred and ninety Six, And viewed the Mouths of the Rivers in question and the Adjacent Shores and Islands; and being of Opinion that actual Surveys of both Rivers to their Sources were necessary, gave to the Agents of the two Nations Instructions for that purpose; And adjourned to meet at Boston in August. They met; but the Surveys requiring more time than had been Supposed, And not being then compleated, the Commissioners again Adjourned to meet at Providence, in the State of Rhode Island in June next, when we may expect a final Examination and decision.
The Commissioners appointed in pursuance of the Sixth Article of the Treaty, met at Philadelphia in may last, to examine the Claims of British Subjects for Debts contracted before the Peace, and Still remaining due to them from Citizens or Inhabitants of the United States. Various causes have hitherto prevented any determinations: but the Business is now resumed and doubtless will be prosecuted without interruption.
Several decisions, on the Claims of Citizens of the United States, for Losses and damages Sustained by reason of irregular and illegal captures or condemnations of their Vessells or other Property, have been made by the Commissioners in London, conformably to the Seventh Article of the Treaty. The Sums awarded by the Commissioners have been paid by the British Government. A considerable number of other Claims, where Costs and Damages and not captured Property were the only Objects in question have been decided by Arbitration, and the Sums awarded to the Citizens of the United States have also been paid.
The Commissioners appointed agreably to the twenty first Article of our Treaty with Spain, met at Philadelphia in the Summer past, to examine and decide on the Claims of our Citizens for Losses they have Sustained in Consequence of their Vessells and Cargoes having been taken by the Subjects of his Catholic Majesty during the late war between Spain and France. Their sittings have been interrupted but are now resumed.
The United States being obligated to make Compensation for the Losses and damages Sustained by British Subjects, upon the Award of the Commissioners acting under the Sixth Article of the Treaty with Great Britain; and for the Losses and damages Sustained by British Subjects, by reason of the Capture of their Vessells and Merchandize taken within the Limits and Jurisdiction of the United States, and brought into their Ports, or taken by Vessells originally armed in Ports of the United States, upon the awards of the Commissioners acting under the Seventh Article of the Same Treaty: it is necessary that provision be made for fullfilling these Obligations.
The numerous captures of American Vessells by the Cruisers of the French Republick, and of Some by those of Spain, have occasioned considerable Expences, in making and Supporting the Claims of our Citizens before their Tribunals. The Sums required for this purpose, have in diverse instances been disbursed by the Consuls of the United States. By means of the Same captures, great numbers of our Seamen have been thrown ashore in foreign Countries, destitute of all means of Subsistance; and the Sick in particular have been exposed to grievous Sufferings. The Consuls have in these cases also advanced monies for their relief. For these Advances, they reasonably expect, reimbursements from the United States.
Gentlemen of the House of Representatives.
It is my Duty to recommend to your Serious consideration those Objects which, by the Constitution are placed particularly within your Sphere, the national Debts and Taxes.
Since the decay of the feudal System by which the public defence was provided for, chiefly at the expence of Individuals, the System of Loans has been introduced. And as no Nation can raise within the Year, by Taxes, Sufficient Sums for its defence, and military operations in time of war, the Sums loaned and debts contracted have necessarily become the subject of what have been called funding Systems. The Consequences arising from the continual Accumulation of public Debts in other Countries, ought to admonish Us to be careful to prevent their growth in our own. The national defence must be provided for, as well as the Support of Government: but both Should be accomplished as much as possible, by immediate Taxes, and as little as possible by Loans. The Estimates for the Service of the ensuing year will, by my Direction be laid before you.
Gentlemen of the Senate and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives.
We are met together at a most interesting Period. The Situations of the principal Powers of Europe are Singular and portentous. connected by with Some with by Treaties, and with all by commerce, no important Event there, can be indifferent to Us. Such circumstances call with peculiar importunity, not less, for a disposition to Unite in all those measures, on which the honour Safety and prosperity of our Country depend than for all the Exertions of Wisdom and firmness.
In all Such measures you may rely on my zealous and hearty concurrence.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 24 November 1797
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
United States November 24th. 1797

I nominate Otway Bird of Virginia to be Collector of the District of Norfolk in that State, in the Place of William Lindsay deceased
Ebenezer Storer of Massachusetts to be Inspector of Survey Number three in that State in the Place of Leonard Jarvis dismissed
Benjamin Rush of Pensilvania to be Treasurer of the Mint of the United States in the Place of Nicholas Way deceased

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Nathaniel Spooner, 26 November 1797
From: Spooner, Nathaniel
To: Adams, John

Plymouth. Massachusets. Novr. 26th. 1797.
His Excellency John Adams Esqr. Sir
The Box received from Mr. OBrion of Santandor; shall be forwarded to Boston or Elswhere aggreeable to your Direction by Your / Obdt Humb. Sert
Nathaniel Spooner


Title: To John Adams from United States Senate, 27 November 1797
From: United States Senate
To: Adams, John

To the President of the United States.
Sir,
27 Nov. 1797

We have received, with much satisfaction  The communications you have thought proper to make in your speech to both Houses of Congress on the opening of their present session—and find in there Afford additional proofs of the attention, integrity & firmness which have always marked your official character.
We cannot but approve of the measures you had taken to ascertain the state & decline of the contagious sickness which has so lately afflicted the City of Philadelphia—And the pleasing circumstance that Congress is now assembled at that place without hazard to the health of its members evinces the propriety of your having postponed a determination to convene the National Legislature at another place—We shall take into consideration the law of 1794 on this subject and will readily concur in any amendment which may be deemed expedient.
It would have given us much pleasure to have received your congratulations on the re-establishment of peace in Europe & the restoration of security to the persons and property of our Citizens from injustice & violence at Sea—But though these events, so desireable to our country, & the world, have not taken place, yet we have abundant cause of gratitude, to the great disposer of human events, for interior tranquility & personal security for propitious seasons, prosperous agriculture, productive fisheries and general improvement and above all for a national spirit of civil and religious liberty and a calm but steady determination to support our sovereignty against all open and secret attacks.
We learn, with satisfaction, that our Envoys Extraordinary, to the French Republic, had safely arrived in Europe and were proceeding to the scene of negociation—and whatever may be the result, of the mission, we are perfectly satisfied that nothing on your part has been omitted which could in any way conduce to a successful conclusion of the negociation upon terms compatible with the safety, honor and interest of the U.S.—And we are fully convinced, that in the mean time, a manifestation of that unanimity & energy of which the people of the U.S. have given such memorable proofs & a proper exertion of those resources of national defence, which we possess will essentially contribute to the preservation of peace and the attainment of justice.
We think, Sir, with you, that the Commerce of the U.S. is of the highest importance Essential to the growth, comfort and prosperity of our Country, and that the faith of society is pledged for the preservation of the rights of commercial and sea-faring, no less than of other citizens—And even if our negociation with France should terminate favorably & the war in Europe cease, yet the state of society which unhappily prevails in so great a portion of the world & the experience of past times, under better circumstances, unites in warning us that a Commerce so extensive , & which holds out so many temptations to lawless plunderers can never be safe without protection & defence—And we hold ourselves obliged, by every tie of duty which binds us to our Contituents, to promote & concur in such measures of marine defence as may convince our merchants & seamen that their rights are not sacrificed nor their injuries are neither sacrificed or  forgotten.
We regret that, notwithstanding the clear & explicit terms of the Treaty between the United States and his Catholic Majesty, the Spanish Garrisons are not yet withdrawn from our Territory nor the running of the boundary line commenced. The U.S. have been faithful in the performance of their obligations to Spain, & had reason to expect a compliance equally prompt on the part of that power—We still however indulge the hope that the convincing answers which have been given to the objections stated by the Spanish officers to the immediate execution of the Treaty will have their proper effect, and that this Treaty, so mutually beneficial to the contracting parties, will be finally observed with good faith. We therefore entirely approve of the measures you have taken to enable us to take possession of the  your determination to Continue in Readiness to receive  the posts and to run the line of partition between our territory and that of the King of Spain—Attempts to alienate the affections of the Indians to form them into a confederacy & to excite them to actual hostility against the U.S., whether made by foreign Agents, or by others, are so injurious to our interest at large and so inhuman with respect to our Citizens inhabiting the adjacent territory, as to merit deserve the most exemplary punishment; and we will cheerfully afford our aid in framing a law which may  prescribe a punishment adequate to the commission of crimes so heinous.
The several objects you have pointed out, to the attention of the legislature, whether they regard our internal or external relations, shall receive from us that consideration of which they merit and we will readily concur in all such measures as may be necessary either to enable us to fulfil our engagements at home or to cause ourselves to be respected abroad. And at this portentous period when the powers of Europe, with whom we are connected by treaty or commerce are in so critical a situation & when the conduct of some of these powers towards the U.S. is so & hostile & menacing, the several branches of the government are, in our opinion, called upon, with peculiar importunity, to unite—And by union not only to devise and carry into effect those measures on which the safety & prosperity of our Country depend but also to undeceive those nations who regarding us as a weak and divided people, have pursued systems of aggression inconsistent with a state of peace between independent nations. And, Sir, we beg leave to assure you, that we derive a singular consolation, from the reflection, that at such a time the Executive part of our government has been committed to your hands—For in your integrity, talents and firmness we place the most entire confidence.


Title: To John Adams from Arthur St. Clair, 28 November 1797
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Adams, John

Sir,
from the Hermitage 28th. Novr. 1797

My Commission of Governor of the Territory of the united States north west of the Ohio will expire on the 9th. day of next month. A considerable time ago, I informed the late President that it was my intention to decline being appointed again, which he may probably have communicated to You. Various causes (but particularly a broken Constitution and a broken Fortune, both of them expended in the public Service) have concurred to enduce me to change that Intention. By the last, the Salary, tho’ I have never been able to save a shilling from it, has become in a great measure necessary to the support of my Family, and by the first I am rendered unfit to engage in any pursuit that requires any great degree of active industry, and that I had in View when I made that communication to the President: I therefore now trouble You, Sir, with this to sollicit a reappointment—Should I be fortunate enough to succeed in that, the utmost exertions in my power for the good of the Colony, and for the benefit of the United States shall not be wanting, which will be the best, and at the same time, I am sure, the most acceptable return I can possibly make to You, Sir, for the favour You will have  conferred upon me.
There is, Sir, yet another reason why I wish to continue in Office, which, tho’ it may be founded in self-love, or perhaps in vanity, I will take the liberty to mention.—I have laboured assiduously to give the People of the Colony a System of Laws that might form their manners while it gave them a direction suited to both their present and future relation to the united States; I have it to lament that the other Members of the temporary legislature have never seemed to me to be sufficiently impressed with the importance of this Object, and it is yet far from being compleated—It is extremely my wish that it might be perfected during my Administration—One consistent Spirit would probably run thro’ the Laws, which, if a right one, would not cease to operate long after I shall be laid in the silent dark, and it is an extremely flattering and consoling contemplation to consider myself as the benefactor to a numerous People that are yet unborn.
With the greatest Respect I have the honor to be / Sir, Your obedient Servant

Ar. St. Clair


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 28 November 1797
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate.
United States November 28. 1797

I thank you for this Address. When, after the most laborious investigation, and serious reflection, without partial considerations, or personal motives, measures have been adopted or recommended, I can receive no higher testimony of their rectitude, than the Approbation of an Assembly, so independent, patriotic and enlightened, as the Senate of the United States.
Nothing has afforded me more entire Satisfaction, than the coincidence of your judgment with mine, in the opinion of the essential importance of our commerce and the absolute necessity of a maritime defence. What is it, that has drawn to Europe the Superfluous Riches of the three other quarters of the Globe, but a Marine? What is it that has drained the Wealth of Europe itself into the coffers of two or three of its principal commercial Powers, but a Marine?
The World has furnished, no example of a flourishing commerce, without a maritime protection: and a moderate knowledge of Man and his history, will convince any one, that no such prodigy ever can arise. A mercantile Marine and a military Marine must grow up together: one cannot long exist, without the other.

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Jacob Read, 28 November 1797
From: Read, Jacob,United States Senate
To: Adams, John

					Sir:
					November 28, 1797

				The communications you thought proper to make in your speech to both Houses of Congress, on the opening of their present session, afford additional proofs of the attention, integrity, and firmness, which have always marked your official character.We cannot but approve of the measures you had taken to ascertain the state and decline of the contagious sickness, which has so lately afflicted the city of Philadelphia; and the pleasing circumstances that Congress is now assembled at that place, without hazard to the health of its members, evinces the propriety of your having postpone a determination to convene the National Legislature at another place. We shall take into consideration the law of 1794, on this subject, and will readily concur in any amendment which may be deemed expedient. It would have given us much pleasure to have received your congratulations on the re-establishment of peace in Europe, and the restoration of security to the persons and property of our citizens from injustice and violence at sea. But, though these events, so desirable to our country and the world, have not taken place, yet, we have abundant cause of gratitude to the Great Disposer of human events, for interior tranquillity and personal security, for propitious seasons, prosperous agriculture, productive fisheries, and general improvement; and, above all, for a rational spirit of civil and religious liberty, and a calm but steady determination to support our sovereignty against all open and secret attacks.We learn, with satisfaction, that our envoys extraordinary to the French Republic had safely arrived in Europe, and were proceeding to the scene of negotiation; and, whatever may be the result of the mission, we are perfectly satisfied that nothing on your part has been omitted, which could, in any way, conduce to a successful conclusion of the negotiation, upon terms compatible with the safety, honor, and interest, of the United States; and we are fully convinced that, in the mean time, a manifestation of that unanimity and energy of which the People of the United States have given such memorable proofs, and a proper exertion of those resources of national defence, which we possess, will essentially contribute to the preservation of peace and the attainment of justice.We think, sir, with you, that the commerce of the United States is essential to the growth, comfort, and prosperity, of our country; and that the faith of society is pledged for the preservation of the rights of commercial and sea-faring, no less than of other citizens. And even if our negotiation with France should terminate favorably, and the war in Europe cease, yet the state of society, which unhappily prevails in so great a portion of the world, and the experience of past times, under better circumstances, unite in warning us that a commerce so extensive, and which holds out so many temptations to lawless plunderers, can never be safe without protection; and we hold ourselves obliged, by every tie of duty which binds us to our constituents, to promote and concur in such measures of marine defence, as may convince our merchants and seamen that their rights are not sacrificed, nor their injuries forgotten.We regret, that, notwithstanding the clear and explicit terms of the treaty between the United States and his Catholic Majesty, the Spanish garrisons are not yet withdrawn from our territory, nor the running of the boundary line commenced. The United States have been faithful in the performance of their obligations to Spain, and had reason to expect a compliance equally prompt on the part of that Power. We still, however, indulge the hope that the convincing answers, which have been given to the objections stated by the Spanish officers, to the immediate execution of the treaty, will have their proper effect; and that this treaty, so mutually beneficial to the contracting parties, will be finally observed with good faith. We therefore entirely approve of your determination to continue in readiness to receive the posts, and to run the lines of partition between our territory and that of the King of Spain.Attempts to alienate the affections of the Indians; to form them into a confederacy, and to excite them to actual hostility against the United States; whether made by foreign agents, or by others, are so injurious to our interests at large, and so inhuman with respect to our citizens inhabiting the adjacent territory, as to deserve the most exemplary punishment; and we will cheerfully afford our aid in framing a law, which may prescribe a punishment adequate to the commission of crimes so heinous.The several objects you have pointed out to the attention of the Legislature, whether they regard our internal or external relations, shall receive from us that consideration which they merit; and we will readily concur in all such measures as may be necessary, either to enable us to fulfil our engagements at home, or to cause ourselves to be respected abroad. And, at this portentous period, when the Powers of Europe, with whom we are connected by treaty or commerce, are in so critical a situation, and when the conduct of some of those Powers towards the United States is so hostile and menacing, the several branches of the Government are, in our opinion, called upon, with peculiar importunity, to unite, and, by union, not only to devise and carry into effect those measures on which the safety and prosperity of our country depend, but also to undeceive those nations who, regarding us as a weak and divided people, have pursued systems of aggression inconsistent with a state of peace between independent nations. And, sir, we beg leave to assure you, that we derive a singular consolation from the reflection that, at such a time, the executive part of our government has been committed to your hands: for, in your integrity, talents, and firmness, we place the most entire confidence.

					Jacob Read,President of the Senate pro tempore.


Title: To John Adams from United States House of Representatives, 28 November 1797
From: United States House of Representatives
To: Adams, John

					Address of the House of Representatives to John Adams, President of the United States.

Sir:
					November 28, 1797.

While our sympathy is excited by the recent sufferings of the citizens of Philadelphia, we participate in the satisfaction which you are pleased to express that the duration of the late calamity was so limited as to render unnecessary the expense and inconvenience that would have been incident to the convention of Congress in another place; and we shall readily attend to every useful amendment of the law which contemplates the event of contagious sickness at the seat of Government.

In lamenting the increase of the injuries offered to the persons and property of our citizens at sea we gratefully acknowledge the continuance of interior tranquillity and the attendant blessings of which you remind us as alleviations of these fatal effects of injustice and violence.

Whatever may be the result of the mission to the French Republic, your early and uniform attachment to the interest of our country, your important services in the struggle for its independence, and your unceasing exertions for its welfare afford no room to doubt of the sincerity of your efforts to conduct the negotiation to a successful conclusion on such terms as may be compatible with the safety, honor, and interest of the United States. We have also a firm reliance upon the energy and unanimity of the people of these States in the assertion of their rights, and on their determination to exert upon all proper occasions their ample resources in providing for the national defense.

The importance of commerce and its beneficial influence upon agriculture, arts, and manufactures have been verified in the growth and prosperity of our country. It is essentially connected with the other great interests of the community; they must flourish and decline together; and while the extension of our navigation and trade naturally excites the jealousy and tempts the avarice of other nations, we are firmly persuaded that the numerous and deserving class of citizens engaged in these pursuits and dependent on them for their subsistence has a strong and indisputable claim to our support and protection.

The delay of the Spanish officers to fulfill the treaty existing with His Catholic Majesty is a source of deep regret. We learn, however, with satisfaction that you still indulge hopes of removing the objections which have been made to its execution, and that you have continued in readiness to receive the posts. Disposed to perform with fidelity our national engagements, nothing shall be wanting on our part to obtain the same justice from others which we exercise toward them.

Our abhorrence can not be too strongly expressed of the intrigues of foreign agents to alienate the affections of the Indians and to rouse them to acts of hostility against the United States. No means in our power should be omitted of providing for the suppression of such cruel practices and for the adequate punishment of their atrocious authors. Upon the other interesting subjects noticed in your address we shall bestow the requisite attention. To preserve inviolable the public faith by providing for the due execution of our treaties, to indemnify those who may have just claims to retribution upon the United States for expenses incurred in defending the property and relieving the necessities of our unfortunate fellow-citizens, to guard against evasions of the laws intended to secure advantages to the navigation of our own vessels, and especially to prevent by all possible means an unnecessary accumulation of the public debt, are duties which we shall endeavor to keep in view and discharge with assiduity.

We regard with great anxiety the singular and portentous situation of the principal powers of Europe. It were devoutly to be wished that the United States, remote from this seat of war and discord, unambitious of conquests, respecting the rights of other nations, and desirous merely to avail themselves of their natural resources, might be permitted to behold the scenes which desolate that quarter of the globe with only those sympathetic emotions which are natural to the lovers of peace and friends of the human race. But we are led by events to associate with these feelings a sense of the dangers which menace our security and peace. We rely upon your assurances of a zealous and hearty concurrence in such measures as may be necessary to avert these dangers, and nothing on our part shall be wanting to repel them which the honor, safety, and prosperity of our country may require.


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 29 November 1797
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
United States November 29. 1797

I nominate David Leonard Barns of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations to be the Attorney for the United States in that District, in the Place of the Honourable Ray Green resigned.
John Read of Delaware now Resident in Philadelphia to be Agent of the United States in relation to Such Claims as may be made against them before the Commissioners appointed to carry into Effect the Sixth Article of the Treaty of Amity, Commerce and navigation between the United States and Great Britain, in the Place of Charles Hall, who declined his Appointment.
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to United States House of Representatives, 29 November 1797
From: Adams, John
To: United States House of Representatives

					Gentlemen of the House of Representatives:
					United States, November 29, 1797.

				I receive this address from the House of Representatives of the United States with peculiar pleasure.Your approbation of the meeting of Congress in this city, and of those other measures of the Executive authority of Government, communicated in my address to both Houses at the opening of the session, afford me great satisfaction; as the strongest desire of my heart is to give satisfaction to the People and their representatives by a faithful discharge of my duty.The confidence you express in the sincerity of my endeavors, and in the unanimity of the People, does me much honor, and gives me great joy.I rejoice in that harmony which appears in the sentiments of all the branches of the Government, on the importance of our commerce, and our obligations to defend it, as well as in all the other subjects recommended to your consideration; and sincerely congratulate you, and our fellow-citizens at large, on this appearance, so auspicious to the honor, interest, and happiness, of the nation.

					John Adams.


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 30 November 1797
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
United States Nov. 30. 1797.

I nominate Chauncey Whittlesey to be Collector of the Customs for the District of Middletown in Connecticut, in the Place of George Phillips, Superceeded
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Enos Hitchcock, November 1797
From: Hitchcock, Enos
To: Adams, John

To the President of the United States
Sir.
Nov. 1797

The Citizens of the Town of Providence voluntarily assembled to tender their respects to the first Magistrate of the Union on his arrival in this Town, beg leave to approach you by their Committee with sentiments of Joy on the present occasion and with assurances of the sensible pleasure they feel in common with their Fellow-Citizens that the suffrages of this great community have met in a Person whose long tried virtues & talents preeminently qualify him to succeed the illustrious Washington.
With the highest satisfaction they have observed in the measures of your administration indubitable proofs of republican firmness and political wisdom which dignify the nation and endear its government to the People.
We have to add their ardent wishes that your journey may be prosperous, your life a continued blessing to the world, and as happy to yourself as useful to the nation.
We are very respectfully your most obedient servants

Enos. HitchcockB BouonJames Burrill Jun. Committee


Title: From John Adams to Joseph Anderson, 1 December 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Anderson, Joseph,Jackson, Andrew,Claiborne, William Charles Coles

Decr. 1. 1797.

The President of the United States, presents his Compliments to The Honourable, Joseph Anderson Andrew Jackson and William Charles Cole Claiborne, and will be glad to receive them at his House tomorrow Saturday Morning ten O Clock, upon the Business mentioned in their Note


Title: To John Adams from Tench Coxe, 2 December 1797
From: Coxe, Tench
To: Adams, John

Sir
Treasury Department Revenue Office Decr. 2d. 1797.

I have the honor to make application to you upon the subject of two letters, which I have received from Oliver Wolcott Esquire, the Secretary of the Treasury. The first of those letters is dated on the 9th. of November last. Mr. Wolcott therein informed me, that he should make certain correspondence, which has lately passed between us the basis of a representation to you against me for deliberate misconduct in office. The second of the two letters, is dated on the 29th of November. In this last communication I am informed that the correspondence refered to has been laid before you. I trust, Sir, that you will deem it no improper liberty that I request you to be pleased to direct your private Secretary to transmit to me
1st. A copy of Mr. Wolcotts representation against me—
2dly A minute of the dates of the several letters from Mr. Wolcott to me, which he has laid before you, and
3dly. A minute of the dates of the several letters from me to Mr. Wolcott, which have been in like manner laid before you—
I have the honor to be, / with great respect, sir, / your most obedient Servant

Tench CoxeCommr. Of the Revenue


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 4 December 1797
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
United States Decr 4. 1797

I nominate Samuel Williams our Consul at Hamburgh to be Consul of the United States at London in the Place of Joshua Johnson resigned.
Thomas Crafts of Massachusetts to be Consul of the United States at Bourdeaux in the Republic of France in the place of Joseph Fenwick, dismissed.
Richard Yates of Maryland, to be Consul of the United States at Aux Cayes in the Island of St. Domingo in the Place of Frederick Folger deceased.

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Daniel McCormick, 4 December 1797
From: McCormick, Daniel
To: Adams, John

Sir.
New York 4th. December 1797

Hopeing you will excuse my zeal to serve a Relation, who I flatter myself, will always proove worthy of every confidence reposed on him. I take the liberty to mention Mr. Pitcairn once more for your notice
It has been sugested to me that there is a probability of remooveing Mr. Williams from Hamburgh to replace Mr. Johnston at London. should this be the case and there be a Vacancy for Hamburgh, I am sure Mr. Pitcairn would prefer it to one at Paris or any other place in France. And there they could make no objections to his place of Birth
With Great Respect / I am Your Excellencys / Most Obedt Hum Servt

Daniel McCormick


Title: From John Adams to Commissioners of Washington City, 5 December 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Washington City, Commissioners of

No: 60.
Gentlemen
Philadelphia December 5. 1797

I here enclose you, a Power to borrow 150,000 Dollars for the Use of the federal City, wherever you can find it.
If this Resource should fail of having its compleat Effect, I agree fully with you in opinion, that it will be necessary for your board to lay the whole subject before Congress for their consideration and further provision and that it will be necessary for One of you to attend in Philadelphia, in order to explain all things to the Members of Congress. I have no Objection to the form you have prepared, and shall be ready to convey it by a Message to both Houses. I am with great Esteem / Gentlemen, your most humble / Servant

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 6 December 1797
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
United States Decr. 6. 1797

I nominate Joseph Pitcairn of New York, to be Consul of the United States, at Hamburgh in the Place of Samuel Williams removed to London.
John Church to be Consul of the United States at Cork in the Kingdom of Ireland
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from James Montgomery, 6 December 1797
From: Montgomery, James
To: Adams, John

Sir
Philadelphia December 6th. 1797

As I conceive it to be but that Justice which every Citizen may claim as His Due to have his Character cleared from false aspersions I entreat your Excellency will afford me that Privilidge which I think I may lay Claim to I have been for Many Months expecting Your Excellency would have returned those vouchers which I had the Honour of Transmitting to You and which our Late Beloved President returned to me should in case there should be any more malicious Attacks made My Character is certainly suffering and untill I have it cleared I will not attempt going abroad and of Course my very large Family are all that Time the sufferings Victims of unprovoked and unjust malice I again with every sentiment of Respect to your Excellency request you will Do me Justice and am your Excellency’s / Most obet / Hmble Servant

James Montgomery


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 7 December 1797
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State Decr. 7. 1797.

I have the honor to return the papers received the 5th instant, which were laid before you by the Secretary of War, concerning a difference of opinions between him and the accountant of that department relative to their respective powers in the issues of monies appropriated to its use; and upon which you directed me to consult the Attorney General, and make report to you.—With those papers I transmit the written opinion of the Attorney General dated yesterday, with which I entirely agree; and to which I beg leave to subjoin a few observations.
The accountant has fondly assumed an importance which does not belong to him. And altho’ in the particular instance stated by the Secretary of War, no public injury happened to ensue, yet the Accountant is not the less blamable: his delaying & refusing to countersign the warrant might have proved very detrimental to the public service.—The law has given him no discretionary or controuling power in such case: his duty is simply to countersign them; unless he discovers an apparent error on the face of them; which of course he ought to point out to the secretary to be corrected.
The powers of the Comptroller of the Treasury are very different. He is explicitly directed to controul as well as countersign the warrants of the Secretary of the Treasury: for he is “to countersign all warrants drawn by the secretary of the treasury, which shall be warranted by law. But when monies are once placed, with this precaution, at the disposal of the secretary of war, he alone is responsable for their particular application. To subject him to the controul of the accountant, would be to place an officer in a very subordinate station, to superintend the head of one of the great departments of government. If the Secretary of War directs, by warrant, a misapplication of the public money, He, and not the Accountant, is to be impeached for it. The accountant is to register the warrant, and to charge its amount to the person who is to account for its expenditure or delivery; and his countersignature is the evidence: that he has so done.
Respectfully submitting these remarks, with those of the Attorney General, to your consideration, I remain, / sir, your most obt. servant,
Timothy Pickering.


Title: From John Adams to John Davis, 11 December 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Davis, John

Dear Sir
Philadelphia Decr 11th 1797—

Coll Pickering has shewn me your Letter of 30th Novr. and I thank you for your kind attention to me—
Inclosed is a Letter from Lewis Meagher O’brian a total stranger to me, who has sent a present to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences—I pray you to send the Box from Plymouth to Dr. Lathrop of Boston, with O’briens Letter. Pray him to open the Box, and present its contents to the Academy, and inclose the Letter back to me by the Post, as there are Somethings of a public nature in it, which I must Consider
I am Sir with great Esteem your / Very humble Servant

John Adams