Title: To John Adams from William Vernon Sr., 10 April 1779
From: Vernon, William Sr.
To: Adams, John

      My Dear Sir
      Boston 10th. April 1779

     The preceeding is copy of my last, of the 17th. Decr. by the Alliance Frigate, who sail’d the 14th. Janry. I hope she is safly arrived with you?
     I have your esteemed favor of the 2nd. Decr. by which I find my Son, is happily situated at Montauban, with Mr. Revallat aine, a Gentleman of good Character, with whom he will have opportunity of acquireing many advantages. It gives me real Pleasure to hear, he is deligent, I hope he will conduct himself with strict decorum and propriety, avoid the foibles and extravagances that Youth too commonly run into. I know this requires advice and frequent precautions, to shun the company of the vicious and debauchee; I beg he may as often receive this from you sir as you write him.
     The Dean Frigate sail’d upon a Cruise with the Alliance the third day, after they sail’d, parted with her, has sent into this Port, the Ship Viper of 18 Guns 75 Men, from Liverpool, is since arrived at Martineco, taken nothing more, except a light Ship in ballast from N York for Portugal, going for Wines, for use of the British Army and Fleet, which he burnt.
     The Genl. Gates Capt. Waters and Sloop Providence Capt. Rathburn sail’d in Decr. The former sent into this Port a Schooner from Malaga, loaded with Wines, Brandy and Fruit, for the Army and Navy at N York, since that in company with this States Brigantine Hazzard, they have taken and sent into this Harbour, a Privateer Brigantine from Antigua of 18 Guns 95 Men, a Brigantine from Halifax loaded with dry Fish and Mackreil for the W. India Islands, both in Port.
     The Sloop Providence captured a Schooner from Quebec, for N York, with Flour, a Brigantine from Jamacia with upwards of 300 hhds. of Rum and Sugar, neither of them arrived, supposed to be lost or retaken. A Brigantine from Jamacia with Rum, Sugar &c. &c. a large Brigantine from Ireland with 8000 bushels of Oats for N York. A Ship from Glascow with Provisions and dry Goods for Jamacia, all safty in Port and sold for £240,000.
     The Warren, Ranger and Queen of France sail’d the 13th. March in company upon a Cruise, have heard nothing of either since they Sail’d. The Frigates Providence and Boston and sloop Providence sail’d the 13th. Instant to Cruise in this Bay for Six days, after that Time the Ship Providence to return to Nantasket Road, to wait the Orders of Congress for some particular service, the others to continue their Cruise to the Southward.

      17 April

     We are now at the 17th. April. The Genl. Gates arrived here Yesterday, taken nothing since the above. She left the Dean Frigate at Martineco Careening.
     This morning the Warren returned into Port, parted with the Ranger and Queen of France last sunday, Westward of Georgies Shoals in a thick fog, on the 7th Instant they fell in with the Privateer Schooner Hibernia of 8 Guns 45 Men from N York which they took gained intelligence of a Fleet of Transports from York with Stores and supplys on board for Brigadeer Genl. Campbells plundering Army at Georgia. They fell in with them the next day, fifteen Leagues from Cape Henry in 15 fathoms Water. Captured the Ship Jason of 20 Guns 150 Men, commanded by Capt. Porterfield, commissioned by Admiral Gambier, convoy to the Fleet, the Ship Maria 16 Guns 84 Men, Brigantine Patriot, Brigantine Prince Frederick, Brigantine Bachelor, Brigantine John and Schooner Chance, all of which was Loaded with Provisions Stores and dry Goods for Georgia. They had a Col. Campbell, a Hessian Col., Two other Field Officers, besides Twenty one Commissioned Officers of inferiour Rank on board, not any privates, besides Officers Servants, together with a multitude of Tory Merchants and Traders from York. Their is on board this Fleet compleat accoutriments for mounting a Regiment of Light Dragoons, they expected to raise in the Southern States. This my dear Sir is a Capture of much consequence and of the greatest importance will give Genl. Lincoln such an advantage over the half starved Troops of Campbell, that we may every moment expect to hear, they are Burgoyned in the State of Georgia.

      22 April

     The 22nd. April this day the Ranger and Queen of France with all the above Prizes got safe into this Harbour.
     A few days past a Cutter Arrived here in 42 days from Brest, with despatches for Congress and his Excellency the Plenipotentiary from the Court of France. The despatchs were immediatly sent forward.
     By this Vessel we have the pleasure of hearing the Alliance arrived at Brest in Three Week passage. Not one syllable of News Transpires, we are impatient of hearing what is doing on your side of the Water, some grand secrets, are in the Cabinet Councils, that the Public wish to have handed out. I hope no dishonorable Peace will take place, we had rather linger out this distructive War, for Years, then leave our Enemies incircled about us, from Nova Scotia to the Froridas, with perhaps the Loss of the Fishery, while we are left only to Possess the skirts of the Shores. These are horrible Ideas, that I hope will be absorbed in Conquest and utter extirpation of our Enemies from the Continent of America and end in glorious Peace.

      25 May

     We are arrived at the 25th. May, shall continue my Narrative of our little American Navy. Yesterday got safe into Port, a Prize Brigantine from N York bound to Quebec, Loaded with sugar, Coffee and Tobacco, taken by the Boston the 14th. instant, who was on her way to the Delaware, in order to join the Confederacy and ship Deane that were in that River. The sloop Providence arrived at Bedford a few days past, carried in with her, the Armed Brigantine Deligent, fitted out by Admiral Gambeir, of 14 Guns 57 Men, Commanded by a Leiutenant of one of the British ships, they had 9 Men Kill’d and 19 Wounded. The Providence 4 Killd and 8 Wounded. This was an obstinate contest, bravery of our Officers and Men obtained the conflict. She also brought in with her a Schooner with 520 bbls. of Rice, retaken from the Enemy. This Vessil was Loaded at Charles-Town on Account of the United states, for this Place.
     The Ranger and Queen of France are nearly ready to sail again on a Cruise.

     Boston 30th July 1779
     Capt. Hopkins of the Warren, and Capt. Olney of the Queen of France are suspended, for breach of Orders: Capt. Saltonston Saltonstall takes command of the former and Capt. Rathburn of the later, by Orders from Congress.
     The ship Providence, Ranger and Queen of France sailed on a Cruise, in company the 7th. June, with a view of intercepting the Enemys Ships from Europe and West Indies. The Boston and Confederacy have sent into the Delaware, an Armed ship from N York of 20 Guns and 70 or 80 Men, belonging to Liverpool fitted out as a Cruiser, as also Two Vessils from the West Indies with Rum &c.
     The Warren, sloop Providence and Brigantine Deligent, together with Sixteen sail of Armed ships and Brigantines from 14 Guns to 20, taken up by this State, saild the 19th. Instant July, in order to dispossess the Enemy, who have taken Possession of Penobscot, with about 800 Land Forces and Six or Seven Armed ships and Brigantines from Halifax. The Troops are mostly Scotch with their Familys, their intentions are to make settlement in the Eastern part of this state. We are impatiently waiting to hear the event of this Expedition. Genl. Lovel commands the Troops (which are cheifly collected in the Eastern Countys) from this State being fifteen hundred?
     As to the operations of the Enemy at New York, I shall refer you to the News Papers, where you will find Clinton and Tryon with the most Infernal crew, that ever Heaven permited to ravage and desolate the Earth, let loose upon the defenceless Towns on the Sea Coast of the State of Connecticut, destroying burning, Murdering of Old Men and Children, with every species of brutal behaviour, that the most Savage Indians ever transacted. Certainly this may with ease be retaliated upon the Coast of Britain with a small force, and little danger. We are infatuated with unrighteous lenity, if we delay it a moment.
     This you will receive by the Mercury Packet Capt. Sampson, whom we have sent by Order of Congress with dispatches for Doctr. Franklin and Count De Vergennes, that we wish may arrive safe—the New Papers we direct to Doctr. Franklin. I salute you being with great sincerity Yr. Obedt. Hble servt.

      Wm. Vernon


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Franklin, 13 April 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

      Sir
      Nants April 13. 1779

     I had Yesterday the Honour of yours of the third of this Month.
     C. Landais had So much diffidence in some of his Crew, that he could not think of carrying home any of the most culpable of the Conspirators, especially as he was so weak handed.
     The naval Code of the united States, has great Occasion for Amendments in many Particulars, without which there will be little Discipline subordination, or Obedience.
     I am happy that you approve of cloathing the petty officers and thank you for the Confidence you have put in me in desiring that I would give Directions in your Behalf for what I may judge for the good of the service, Funds and Circumstances considered. A Trust however, that will involve me in difficulties, because I fear the Demands of officers and Men will be greater than I could wish. Obedience, on Board is So imperfect, that I do not expect the ship can possibly be got to sea, without some Money to the Officers and Men.
     I expect the Ship here every day, and I hope in 15 days to be at sea, if you have any Letters should be glad to carry them.
     Am much pleased with your Reception at Court in the new Character and I do not doubt that your opinion of the good Will of this Court to the United States is just. This Benevolence is the Result of so much Wisdom and is founded in such Solid Principles that, I have the Utmost Confidence in its Perseverance to the End.
     Spain, too, must sooner or later see her true Interest, and declare in favour of the same generous Cause. I wish, and hope with you that it will be soon. If it is not, there is great Reason to fear a very unnecessary and profuse Effusion of human Blood: for the English derive such Spirits from their Captures at sea and other little successes, and War is everlastingly So popular among them, when there is the least Appearance of success however deceitful that, they will go on, at whatever Expence and Hazard.
     Master Johnny, whom you have honoured with an affectionate Remembrance, and who Acts at present in the quadruple Capacity of Interpreter, secretary, Companion and Domestick to his Pappa desires me to present you his dutiful Respects.
     My Regards if you please to Mr. Franklin and Mr. Gellée, and the young Fry.

      I have the Honour to be with great Respect, your most obedient servant
      John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Ralph Izard, 18 April 1779
From: Izard, Ralph
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Paris 18th. April 1779

     I am favoured with your Letter of 12th, and am sorry to find that you have had so much trouble about the Frigate. The accounts which we had of the small number of hands she had, made it probable that she would not sail soon. Perhaps this detention may prove to be “all for the best.” Some wise people are of opinion that this is always the case; and though the maxim has undergone the criticism of M. de Voltaire, and passed the fiery Ordeal of his ridicule, it very often proves true. The arrival of the first dispatches from Congress will probably add another example of the truth of it.
     I have no news to send you, except the common report of Paris, that Spain is at last determined to declare in favour of France. England expects such an event, and affects to look at it with indifference; should it take place, I hope she will be soon convinced of her mistake.
     We can not, I think, be much longer without having News from Congress. Should any Letters arrive for me at Nantes, while you are there, I should be obliged to you if you would send them to me. Frequent accidents have happened to our dispatches; and I very much fear that what has happened, may happen again. My Wife, and family thank you for your kind remembrance of them, and offer their Compliments. As for the Two Abbés they speak for themselves on the other side of the paper. I am Dr. Sr. Your most obt. hble Servt.

      Ra. Izard

      P.S. If there should be any arrivals from America, or any News from thence while you stay at Nantes, I should be obliged to you if you would let me know. It is said that some American Prisoners are arrived at Nantes from England. If so, why are they not taken on board of the Alliance?
      Les abbés de Chalut et Arnoux font leurs amitiés à Monsieur Adams, ils embrassent Son cher fils, ils lui souhaitent une heureuse navigation, et ils le prîent de leur donner de Ses nouvelles.


Title: To John Adams from J. D. Schweighauser, 19 April 1779
From: Schweighauser, John Daniel
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Nantz 19 Ap. 1779

     The Officers of the Alliance having express’d some discontent at my offering them two Months advance out of which they were to furnish themselves the Cloaths they would think fit, and his Excellency B Franklin having directed me in any such difficulties to apply to you I will take it as a particular favor if you will be kind enough to let me know your opinion on that subject that I may act in consequence and will also be obliged to you for confirming the approbation you have given this morning to the Cloathing of the Marines.

      I have the honor to be most respectfully sir Your most humble & mo obt. Servant
      J. Dl. Schweighauser


Title: From John Adams to Arthur Middleton, 24 April 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Middleton, Arthur

      Sir
      On Board the Alliance, St. Lazare, near Nantes Ap. 24. 1779

     Your Favour, of the 4 July 1778, I had not the Honour to receive, untill yesterday, which I very much lament because I fear I have lost an opportunity of rendering Some little service to the Commodore in his laudable Enterprise, at least of shewing every Respect in my Power to your Recommendation.
     In a Letter, which he did me the Honour to write me, I find he has made several able Propositions to the Ministry in which I heartily wish him success: and in my Answer to him, I have taken the Liberty to hint to him some proper Persons to apply to for Assistance in his Negociations.
     The Face of Things at present may not be so favourable to him as We could wish, but as I am well persuaded that the Constancy and Perseverance of the French Court may be depended on, I hope he will be able to convince them that one at least of his Plans, is a wise one, and promises much Utility to the common Cause. I have the Honour to be, with Sincere Respect and Esteem, sir, your obedient humble servant

      John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Peter Frederick Dobrée, 24 April 1779
From: Dobrée, Peter Frederick
To: Adams, John

      Nantz 24 Apl. 1779

     I am honoured with your Excellency’s Letter of the 15 Instant with a List inclosed of several Articles to be bought for your worthy famely. Msr. S—— is actually making those purchases and as soon as they are ready I will see them neatly packed and send them on board by some safe conveyance. Inclosed a Letter received by this morning Post which I send you agreable to your order. I am much occupied in providing the Warrant and Petty officers with a suit of Cloaths a piece and find it one of the most difficult tasks I have ever undertaken, however I hope soon to have done with them.
     As his Excellency Doctor Franklin in his Letter to M. S. is very brief and refers him to you, you will be pleased to write up word if he mentions any thing which he desires to be done. With much respect I have the honour to be Your Excellencys most humble & most obedient Sert

      P. F. Dobrée


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Franklin, 24 April 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Passy, April 24. 1779

     By the enclosed Letter from M. De Sartine expressing his Majestys Desire that the Alliance should be retained here a little longer, you will see that I am under a kind of Necessity of disappointing you in your Intentions of making your Passage immediately in that Vessel; which would be more unpleasing to me but for these Considerations, that possibly it may be safer for you to go in a Ship where the Crew not being so mixed can be better depended on, where you will not be incommoded by the Misunderstandings subsisting between the Officers and their Captain, and where you will have the Society of the French Ambassador, M. le Chevalier de la Luzerne, who appears to me a most amiable Man and of very sensible and pleasing Conversation. I hope this will in some Measure compensate for the Inconvenience of shifting your Stores from one Ship to the other. And as I shall order the Alliance to l’Orient where the King’s Frigate is, that carries the Ambassador, the removal of your Things from one Ship to the other will be more easy. You can even go thither in the Alliance if you chuse it. The Ships in the American Trade which were at Nantes when I offered them the Convoy, of the Alliance, having declined that Offer, and sailed, as I understand, under another and perhaps safer Convoy, makes her immediate Departure for America less necessary; and perhaps she may now make a Cruize in these Seas, for which I understand she will have time; which will be probably more advantageous and therefore more Satisfactory to her People than a direct Return. I hope she may procure us some more Prisoners to exchange the rest of our Countrymen, and at the same time reimburse us the Charges of her Refitting, which you know we stand much in need of.
     M. Dumas writes me from the Hague of the 19th “Je sçais sais depuis hier, de bonne part que l’Espagne s’est enfin declarée. Cela fera un bon Effet ici, et partout.” I hope his Intelligence is good; but nothing of it has yet transpired here.
     Inclosed I send you a Cover which I have just received from Martinique, directed to me but containing only a Letter for you. The Cover being unskilfully sealed, over the Seal of your Letter, was so attached to it that I had like to have broken open the one in opening the other. I send you also another Letter which came from Spain.
     I am obliged by your offer of taking Charge of my Dispatches for America. I shall send them down to you by M. De la Luzerne, who is to set off in a few Days.

      With great Esteem, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant
      B Franklin


Title: To John Adams from Ralph Izard, 24 April 1779
From: Izard, Ralph
To: Adams, John

      Dr. Sr.
      Paris 24 April 1779

     I am informed by a Letter from Nantes that the Alliance arrived there the 18th, and that she had 250 Men on board; she will therefore probably sail soon. My first Letter to you after your departure from hence desired that you would put the Letters addressed to the Committee, and to the Delegates from the State of South Carolina on board of some vessel that would sail before the Alliance. Your last Letter mentions nothing about them; and I hope you have kept them yourself, as I look upon that Frigate as the safest conveyance. I take the liberty of enclosing you another Letter for the Committee, and beg the favour of you to forward it as well as the others as soon as you arrive. Should you receive dispatches from Congress to keep you in Europe, you will be so good as to give my Letters into the particular care of the Captn. of the Alliance, and request him to forward them to Congress as soon as he arrives. Our Letters from London mention an engagement between Genl. Lincoln, and Genl. Prevost to have been fought, with considerable loss on both sides, without either being able to claim the victory. It does not appear to be certain that there has been any battle. If there has, I hope we have had the advantage, as the Gazette takes no notice of it. The Westerly Winds which have prevailed for some time, will I hope soon bring us good news, and compensate for the length of time we have been without any.
     I heartily wish you a safe, and agreeable passage, and flatter myself with the hopes of seeing you in America before the expiration of many Months. My Wife offers her Compliments and I am Dr. Sr. Your most obt. hble Servt.

      Ra. Izard

      P.S. The enclosed is just received from Holland. I hope it may contain a Letter from America with agreeable news. Should that be the case, I should be glad to be informed of it. I wish to know whether it is true that the Alliance has got Two Hundred, and Fifty Men, and when you think she will sail.


Title: To John Adams from Richard Henry Lee, 24 April 1779
From: Lee, Richard Henry
To: Adams, John

     Philadelphia, 24 April 1779. Dft  (ViU: Lee Papers). printed: The Letters of Richard Henry Lee, ed. James Ballagh, 2 vols., N.Y., 1914 (repr. N.Y., 1970), 2:46–49.
     Given its date and its existence only in draft, this reply to John Adams’ letter of 5 Aug. 1778 (vol. 6:350–352) probably never reached him. Lee commended Adams for his determination to remain outside the quarrels of the Americans in France and then turned to Silas Deane, whose address he believed would have no lasting effect, for Deane was universally censured. Lee thought the British success in Georgia would be temporary; expected that the Articles of Confederation would soon be ratified; and emphasized the need for a loan, which along with economy and taxation would place the currency on a firm foundation. He enclosed the pamphlet Observations on the American Revolution (Phila., Feb. 1779), consisting of selections from the Journals of the congress compiled by Gouverneur Morris, designed to counteract the falsities of the Carlisle commissioners (EvansCharles Evans and others, comps., American Bibliography: A Chronological Dictionary of All Books, Pamphlets and Periodical Publications Printed in the United States of America [1639–1800], Chicago and Worcester, 1903–1959; 14 vols., No. 16625; JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 15:1452; Burnett, ed., Letters of MembersEdmund C. Burnett, ed., Letters of Members of the Continental Congress, Washington, 1921–1936; 8 vols., 4:59, note).


Title: To John Adams from Jonathan Williams, 24 April 1779
From: Williams, Jonathan
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Nantes April 24. 1779

     I am sorry this Town has fewer Charms for you than a Ship of War,— You surely will have enough of the Sea on your Passage and methinks the Shore, now Nature is putting on her most agreeable Dress, is capable of giving you more pleasure. If you think the Situation of my House pleasant enough, you may be as compleatly Commander of it as you can be of any Frigate in the Service.
     You may remember I mentioned to you how far I had interested myself for the Officers who came over in the Flagg. I inclose Doctor Franklins Answer, and one of them comes to you to lay before you how far they necessarily require releif. The next Step I think should be to let them go on board Ship directly to avoid any further Expence. But of this you are the best Judge.
     Remember me to Jack. I am very respectfully & sincerely Dear Sir Your most obedt. Servt

      Jona. Williams J.

      The Post to day brings nothing certain, as there are some Paragraphs which if true are favourable to us, I send you the Courier de l’Europe. Please to return it after perusal.


Title: To John Adams from Edmund Jenings, 25 April 1779
From: Jenings, Edmund
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Paris April. 25. 1779

     I am greatly obliged to You for your favor of the 13 Instant. I am flattered much to find, that my Sentiments meet with your Approbation, the great Part you have taken in the American Question, and your Judgement in it, are such as give You a right to Influence and direct every One interested in the Event.
     Be Assured, Sir, it is my Inclination and Duty to Attend to whatever you may think Adviseable in these trying Times, when more is to be done, if possible, than what has been done, and yet I have Many reasons to make me wish your staying here, where I think disinterested Men are more wanted, than in America, and where there are, I am Affraid, but few of true American Hearts. It is Impossible to say, when a Negociation for peace may be Commencd, nor what turn that Negociation may take, but as it is possible, England may first sound the Sentiments of this Court on that Head, the more of Trust and Knowledge, that are here, the better it will be to prevent any Mischievous Consequence.
     Secret Negocitions, ought, to be sure, be avoided. And that they may not be too secret, there cannot be too many of those, who are trusted by the Congress Knowing of them, and in particular such as You, who have so just an Idea of the Nature of the Alliance, which demands a strict Observance of Faith between France and America, and by Consequence requires, I think, the Participation of France in every thing offered to America. It is possible, that England, who wishes to detach America from France may take Another Course; Her offers will be to America alone, who has Wisdom and Integrity sufficient not to take a determined part, without Communicating with France. This necessarily will produce great Delay, which I think might be avoided, and the Danger too of the whole Negociation, a Momentous business, being entrusted in One Mans Hand, however qualified He may be. If Congress could be induced to give such Instructions, as the Case may require; it Ventured to give Instruction for making the Alliance, why shoud it, not be Able to do the Same for the making a Peace? Such Instructions, we may be assured, will secure its Essential Rights and Interests, in the Plainest Manner, which being Agreed to, and France Acquiescing, a Truce may be immediately made, until the Ratification of the whole is returnd from America. If a Nogociation, is ever to be enterd into, this Seems to me to be the most Expeditious, and that it may be a Safe Way, it will be your part to lay before the Congress all that you have observed in Europe, and the Congress will govern themselves Accordingly, it is for this reason, that tho I regret your going from Hence, I have som Comfort, you may give such Information, as I think is much wanted.
     I concur with You in approving the Conduct of Congress, in declaring their Sense of the Alliance and in their Manner of doing it, which has in it something so particular, as makes people here think, there is Something working, which they do not at present comprehend. This Imagination is Comfirmd, in reading what passed in Congress relative to the Cargoes of the Amphitrite, Seine and others. Whatever is going on I am rejoicd to find the Eyes of our Country open to everything, that they regard Every Event, that the designs of Party may produce against its Interest and Honour.
     Having receivd so favorably One of my productions, I have taken the Liberty of sending to You, by the purser of the Ship Alliance another, printed in the Remembrancer, it is entituld, the ’Spirit and Ressources of G.B. considerd’; I send it to you, as it may Serve to shew you my Sense of the Iniquity and folly of England, altho it may be ineffectual to shew them to the Eyes of the people themselves. It will be translated here and publishd by Genet. I beg you woud Communicate it to my Friend General Gates, to whom I desire to be rememberd with much Esteem, and afterwards Hand it, if you please, to Mr. Carrol of Carrolton.
     I beg I may hold a place in your Confidence and share in your Correspondence.

     I pray God to Help you and our Country. I am D Sir Your Most faithful & Obed. Humble Servt

      Edm: Jenings


Title: To John Adams from Ralph Izard, 26 April 1779
From: Izard, Ralph
To: Adams, John

      Dr. Sr.
      Paris 26 April 1779

     As I have not been able to procure from Dr. Franklin his reasons in writing for disobeying the order of Congress of 7th May 1778, I have desired Mr. Lee to favour me with a Copy of his Minutes, respecting our conversation on that subject on 12th of January last. I enclose them for your perusal, and should be obliged to you if you would attest them. If you find any mistakes, or omissions, you will be so good as to favour me with a state of the conversation. You will be pleased to let Mr. Ford take a Copy of both papers, and return me the originals.
     I enclosed you a Letter two days ago, by the Post, from Holland; it will give me pleasure to learn that it has brought you agreeable news.

      I have the honour to be Dr. Sr. Your most obt. hble Servt.
      Ra. Izard


Title: To John Adams from J. D. Schweighauser, 26 April 1779
From: Schweighauser, John Daniel
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Nantes 26 April 1779

     I have the honor of sending you inclose a Letter received per this Morning’s post and altho I expect to have that of seeing you dayly I have thought proper to send it you per this conveyance as if you are on your way here that it can not miss you on the road.
     We have learnt that the french frigate the Surveillante has sent it in two English Privateers at L Orient and sunk three others. The Prince of Nassau with four or five Ships is gone to make a descent on Jersey. One of the Gentleman who goes down to Mindin will deliver you the Bag you ordered for your papers, all the other articles are ready and will be sent when You direct. I shall be happy if you would tell me if you’ll take your wine from Mr. Williams and if you’ll want any white wine—the Captains Steward is come to me to day and I see that there is but 8 dollars per Month allowed him by Congress therefore imagine that he must be cloathed as the seamen who have the same Wages.

     Mrs. Schweighauser and family join me in respectfull Compliments to you and am Sir Your mo: humble & mo: obedient Servant

      J. Dl. Schweighauser


Title: To John Adams from William MacCreery, 28 April 1779
From: MacCreery, William
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Bordeaux 28th. April 1779

     Your Letter of 14th Instant from Nantes reached me to Day only. It was but very lately that I heared of your having left the Metropolis, and but now of your intentions of going to America.
     I have written to Doctor Franklin on the Subject you allude to, and have had the pleasure of an Answer from him, by which I perceive that at Paris they are not well acquainted with the Duties and imposts which clog Some branches of Commerce at this Port, which do not exist in others, from its being a Conquored Province. I have given him as much information as my time permitted of: having a large Ship loading here for Baltimore, in which I purpose embarking, I have of late, and am still kept buisey. We expect to Sail about the 10th or 15 of May, will carry 22 Nine and 6 four Pound Guns, and have near one Hundred Men.
     I presume you purpose going home in the Alliance, in which, (or indeed in any other) case, I shou’d be very glad to be in Your Company. They talk of a Fleet being to Sail about the time we expect to be ready, which we shall aim at going with, and have no doubt but you will be of it.
     We have no News here save what comes from the N. E. which relates to Captures and arrivals favourable to us. I am very happy to find that the Count D’Esg. appears to be in a much better Posture than we had reason to expect of late. I sincerely wish you a happy sight of Your Freinds on t’other side the Water, & am very truely and Respectfully Dear Sir Your obt. Servant

      Will MacCreery


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Franklin, 29 April 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

      Sir
      Nantes Ap. 29. 1779

     I had, Yesterday, the Honour of yours of the 24th inclosing a Letter from his Excellency M. de Sartine, expressing his Majestys Desire that the Alliance Should be retained here a little longer.
     As my Baggage was on board, and every Appearance promised that We should be under Sail in three or four days for America, in a fine ship and the best Month in the Year, this Intelligence, I confess, is a Disappointment to me. The Alliance has now a very good Crew, and the little Misunderstandings between the officers and their Captain Seem to have Subsided.
     The public service, however must not be obstructed for the private Convenience of an Individual, and the Honour of a Passage with the new Ambassador, should be a Compensation to me for the Loss of the prospect of So Speedy a Return home. I cannot but hope, however that the Frigate will go to Some Eastern Port, for I had rather remain here some time longer, or even take my Lott with the Alliance in her Cruise, than go to Chesapeak or even Delaware.
     I shall go round to L’orient in the Alliance, and if the Frigate which is to carry the Chevalier de la Luzerne, Sails soon, shall accept with Gratitude to his Majesty, of his obliging offer of a Passage, but I hope that his Excellency, M. De Sartine, will give the necessary orders, for this Purpose to the Frigate, otherwise I may be under an Embarrassment still.
     I Sincerely join with you in your Wishes that the Alliance may make Prisoners enough to redeem our brave and honest Countrymen who have So long Suffered in English Prisons, and make Prizes enough to reimburse the Charges of refitting.

     I wish M. Dumas’s Information may be well founded, and indeed it Seems to be favoured by a general Expectation from all Quarters.
     A Vessell is arrived at Morlait and another at L’orient from Virginia—the latter brings nothing that I can learn, tho some favourable Bruits have been propagated, concerning Affairs in Georgia, as from her. As the former has brought Some Virginia and Philadelphia News-papers, I hope she may have brought, public Dispatches at least some good News. If any of either comes to your Hand proper to be communicated I should be obliged to you, for a share of it.
     In a Newspaper of the 1st March, it is said that Mr. Deane has asked Leave of Absence, and this is all the material News, that I recollect in it excepting, indeed, G. Maxwells Letter giving an Account of the Affair of Elizabeth Town, by which it appears that the English were repulsed, and lost the Cattle and Horses they had taken, and if they had not fled with uncommon Dexterity, they would have been burgoinisès, a technical Term which I hope the Accademie will admit into the Language by lawful Authority.

      I have the Honour, to be with great Respect, sir, your most obedient, humble sert
      John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Edmund Jenings, 29 April 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Jenings, Edmund

      Dear sir
      Nantes Ap. 29. 1779

     There is a fatal spell set upon, all Intelligence between This Country and Ours. Two Vessells have arrived, from Virginia one at L’orient the other from at Morlaix, and no News.
     I have seen four or five News Papers which came by the latter, one of which is a Virginia Paper as late as 12 March.
     No News, excepting a Letter from G.W. to Congress containing a Letter from G.M. to him concerning the Affair of Elisabeth Town, by which it appears that the English were obliged to take themselves away in great Haste or they would have been burgoined, leaving the Horses, and Cattle they had taken by surprise.
     The speculations continue, concerning Paper Money, General Arnold—the Constitution of Pensilvania,—and Our Mightinesses the Commissioners.
     Common sense 1. March says Mr. Deane had asked Leave of Absence,—but thinks it not safe to let him go. The Virginia Paper says my Commission is superseded, but no more about tittle top, &c.
     I fancy, they expect me home—but their Expectation as well as mine I fear is cut off, by the Intelligence I had Yesterday that I am not to go home in the Alliance.
     You may well imagine that I am suffering Tortures. But I learned, an heathen Prayer in a heathens Translation in my early Youth, which has often in the Course of Life been of service to me.

      Parent of Nature! Master of the World
      Wher’eer thy Providence directs, behold
      My steps with chearfull Resignation turn
      Fate leads the willing, drags the backward on.
      Why should I grieve, when grieving I must bear
      and take with Guilt, what guiltless I might
      must might share?

     Mr. Johnson tells me, and so does Mr. Blodget, that there is a Packet for me from you, in the Diligence which I may expect tomorrow. The Tongue, has no Bridle here, by all that I can learn—Slander is unchained. Guarded before me,—it is a great Political Problem which side I am of. I could tell them the secret, at once I am of neither, and another secret too, vizt. that it would be of little Importance which side I was of—indeed they seem to be sensible enough of this, that without taking a side a Man is of no Consequence.
     They may possibly live to see, However, that Rashness Rancour, and Tearing one another to Pieces, is not the Way to do any good at all to their Country, nor any lasting Honour or Benefit to themselves.

      Adieu
      J.A.


Title: To John Adams from Ferdinand Grand, 3 May 1779
From: Grand, Ferdinand
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Paris May the 3d. 1779

     Permitt me to express how sorry I have been at not being able to comply sooner with your desires, relative to the Account of the United States, till the 11th of February, at which time the Intention of Congress was Known; Some of the Articles that were Kept in suspençe were the Obstacles that prevented it. I am however happy to find that the present Letter with the inclosed Account to that time will be able to reach you in Europe; I hope you will find it right, and shall be glad if it is not giving you too much trouble to hear it is come to hand, that both you and your Son are very well, and that your Satisfaction of those Places you have been through Since your leaving Paris, corresponds with the Indulgent Idea you had conceived of our Kingdom by the Metropolis.
     There being a great Scarcity of True News at this place, I Shall conclude by craving the favour of being honoured with your Friendship, and of being freely disposed of in any thing I can do for you and Family in this part of the World. Being with True Esteem & Attachment Sir Your most obedient & Most hble. servt.

      F. Grand

      My tenderest Love to your Worthy Son if you please.


Title: From John Adams to Edmund Jenings, 4 May 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Jenings, Edmund

      Dear Sir
      Minden May 4. 1779

     Yesterday your favour of 25 of April came to Hand, but my dear sir you flatter me too much when you tell me that the Part I have taken gives me a right to influence and direct. I claim no other Right than that of being heard and having what I have to say considered: but According to present Appearances, even this is not like to be conceded to me. Content, in Gods name, if Persons of greater Abilities, more firmness, more Experience, and more Merit are, to be found in such Plenty, by the united states, either at home or abroad, let them be employed. But I can serve no Cause or Country, with Dishonour. It is not the Constitution of my Mind, if it had been I should never have been here, nor at Paris, nor at Congress.
     As to the great Work of Peace, sir, you may depend upon this (if I know any Thing of Congress or the united states, a Point which I begin to doubt) no Peace will ever be made without clear, and positive Instructions from Congress. This is a subject, which in my Apprehension they will reserve to themselves and no Man or Body of Men besides will ever be able to content the People of America, with any Peace. The satisfaction of America, and the Preservation of their Union is the great Point, We have to attend to, in making Peace, and I cannot but think it forward, and presumptuous, in any in public Characters, without Commission, or Instructions for this Purpose, to negociate or even confer about it, any farther than to receive Propositions and transmit them to Congress. Private Gentlemen perhaps may indulge themselves in speculations with less danger.
     I do not draw the Same Conclusion, with you, from the Resolution of Congress respecting the Cargoes of the Amphitrite &c. They say they have Evidence that those Cargoes were not presents which is true, because an Agent arrived in America before I left it to demand Payment of Congress for the whole
     But I have not Time to enlarge at present. My Thoughts have been wholly occupied, of late upon Objects of much less Magnitude, than the Peace of Nations.
     I have had enough to do, to make Peace on Board the Alliance, get the Prisoners exchanged and the ship to sea, and the Moment the Business was accomplished, and the Prospect opened before me of sailing, in the pleasantest Month in the Year and the finest frigate in the World, directly home, a positive order arrives, which disarrayes all my schemes.
     I dined at Brest on Board the St. Esprit, at the Invitation of her Commander Mr. Hamilton, who treated me with perfect Politeness, and there I found an officer, who was constantly humming Tunes to himself and making pathetic Ejaculations to the God of Love. Mr. Hamilton explained me his Case.
     This officer two or three Years ago, was married in the East Indies, to a Young Lady of thirteen upon Condition that she should remain in a Convent untill his Return from Europe. This Spring the Annibal on board of which Vessell this officer was had orders to sail for India,—but when every Thing was ready for the Fleet to sail, orders came from Court for the officers and Equipage of the Annibal to shift on Board the St. Esprit, a ship destined to remain in Brest Harbour for the Channel service.
     I find myself, since my Disappointment, more disposed to pity this officer, and to chant as he did Oh Dieu des Amours &c.
     You may depend upon it, how much soever a Man may pant for Glory, the Prospect of a Battle with Admiral Keppell, or of Captivity in British Prisons is not quite so comfortable to human Nature as that of the Embraces of an agreable family.

      Adieu
      John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Franklin, 10 May 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Passy; May 10th. 1779

     I received the honour of yours of the 29th. past from Nantes. I hope you are before this time safely arrived at L’Orient. M. De la Luzerne is making diligent Preparation for his Departure, and you will soon see him. He and the Secretary of the Embassy are both very agreable and sensible Men, in whose Conversation you will have a great deal of Pleasure in your Passage. What Port the Ship will be ordered to I have not yet learnt, I suppose that it may be partly left to the Captain’s Discretion, as the Winds may happen to serve. It must certainly be most agreable to you to be landed in Boston; as that will give you an earlier Sight of your Family; but as you propose going immediately to Congress, being landed at Philadelphia will have some little Advantage, as it saves half your Journey. I shall take care to procure the Order to the Captain from Mr. De Sartine, which you desire; tho’ I should suppose showing the Original Letter of that Minister, which you have, would be sufficient. No publick Dispatches are arrived here since you left us. I see by the Virginia Papers that the 6th. of February, being the Anniversary of the signing of the Treaty, was observed with great Festivity by the Congress &c. at Philadelphia. From Holland I have just received the Resolution of the States General, of the 26th. past, to Convoy their Trade, notwithstanding Sir Joseph York’s Memorial, and to fit out directly 32 Ships of War for that purpose; which is good News and may have consequences.

      I have the honour to be, with great Regard, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble Servant.
      B Franklin


Title: To John Adams from J. D. Schweighauser, 18 May 1779
From: Schweighauser, John Daniel
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Nantes 18 May 1779

     I hope you are ere now safely arrived at L Orient and that you have found all the arrangements made for your passage to America to your Satisfaction, which I shall be happy to learn, particularly as it is wispered here that the Alliance’s destination is again changed and that she is to go strait to Boston, I sincerely wish it for you persuaded how much more agreable it will be to take your passage in her than in another.
     I received your Letter of the 5 Instant by which you propose settling the small accounts of articles bought for Mrs. Adams with Mr. Puchelberg and receiving from him the money you may want which I note accordingly.
     Mrs. Schweighauser Mr. Dobreé and family join me in most respectfull Compliments to you.

      I have the honor to be most devotedly Your mo obedient & mo humble Servant.
      J. Dl. Schweighauser


Title: To John Adams from J. D. Schweighauser, 22 May 1779
From: Schweighauser, John Daniel
To: Adams, John

      Sir

       ante 22 May 1779

     I am honoured with your favor of the 2 Instant in compliance to which I have wrote to Cap Landais for Mr. T. Greenleaf’s passage.
     Inclose you will find the note of Sundry Articles which Mrs. Schweighauser has bought for Mrs. Adams amounting to 1730:16 which she hopes will meet with her approbation. This small Sum you will please to pay either to Mr. Odea or Messrs. Puchelberg & Co. at L Orient if convenient and if you had occasion on the other hand for Money I will write by tomorrows post to the latter to furnish it to you.
     I am with much respect Sir Your mo humble obt. Servant

      J. Dl. Schw Schweighauser


Title: From John Adams to Edmund Jenings, 22 May 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Jenings, Edmund

      Dr. sir
      L’orient May 22d. 1779

     Yours of the 15 reached me, Yesterday. I am waiting here in anxious Expectation of the new Minister, with whom, it is said I am to embark. It would give me Pleasure to form an Acquaintance with this Gentleman, because his Character is good, and because, it would give me an opportunity of convincing him of the Importance of keeping himself disconnected with Parties. Not only the Benefits of the Alliance, but the Duration of the Confederacy of the states depends, upon the Neutrality of the French Court, in our internal Disputes.
     The Object of the Armament that is fitting out, here, is a Secret of state. Who is to be at the Expence of it? Who directs it? Who is to have the Benefit of it?
     I must Sing a little to the God of Love, let War and Politicks say what they will. Surely I may be allowed to hum a Tune to him, when I am not permitted to pay him any other Kind of Worship. This I may do without looking back, which I shall never do, whoever holds the Plough. As to your Idea of the great Men, there is not much in it. It is a great People, with little Masters? that does great Things. They will always find Instruments to employ that will answer their Ends. I am more and more convinced that every great Character in the World is a Bubble, and an Imposture, from Mahomet down to Governor Johnstone. It is made up of little Tricks and low Devices.
     I thank you for the news from Holland and Sweeden. Every Article of News is important to me here, where nothing is to be learnd. I never felt the Want of it so much.
     Mr. Ds. Permission to come over, to settle, his or the public Accounts is another Mistery. A new Device for Sliding into a public Character. Why permitted to do this? Is he to be a public Man? in public Pay? Why permitted to do what is his Duty? and was his Duty, to have done before? What Accounts are to settle? I am weary of these misterious Artifices. If he had been ordered to lay his Accounts, before Congress, without delay or as soon as he could get his Papers from France, and censured for leaving them there I should have understood this very well. I am convinced that a Construction will be put upon this that Congress never intended. And that he means to draw Consequences from it that they did not think of. Will Dr. F. pay Mr. Ds. Expences, who refused to pay Mr. Izards, and Mr. W. Lees?
     With all my Professions of Neutrality and Impartiality I confess myself wholly against this Man. He will not have my Vote, to be in any very important office. His narrow Capacity and his immeasurable Vanity, to go no farther make such a Composition, as will not soon have my Confidence. With all this He has subtelty and Intrigue enough to do our affairs much Harm, if he comes to France. He has formd Connections in Trade, with some House or Houses or other in almost every State from G. to N.H. as I am informed. He has also formed very extensive Connections in the maritime Towns in France. These grasping Genius’s are the Curse of human Kind. This Mans Conduct in particular has done our Cause in my humble opinion incredible Injuries. To his extravagant Projects, all the Disputes and Quarrells about our foreign affairs, are to be imputed. To him it is chiefly owing that Americans are tearing one anothers Characters in Pieces in this Country, mutually labouring to make each other appear to be Knaves. And a great Part of the World, here, is now complaisant enough to take Us all at our Words.
     For my own Part, instead of permitting Mr. D to come, I wish Congress had positively ordered Mr. L. to Spain, Mr. Izard to Tuscany and Dr. F. to attend wholly to his Negociations at Court.
     If mercantile and maritime matters and the Disposition of all Money but his own salary, is not taken from the Minister, America will be ruined in Reputation as well as Credit very soon.
     A Consul should be appointed at Nantes, with a Power of Deputation. This Consul, in Person or by Deputy should have the management of all our Commercial Concerns and the Direction of all the Vessells of War, and be made without Mercy to lay his Accounts before Congress once in two Months.
     This is the substance of my system for American affairs in France. I beg your sentiments upon it, and your Reasons against any Part that you may disapprove, for I am open to Conviction.
     The great Difficulty will be to find a proper Person for a Consul, I wish you would mention if you think of any.
     This is writing freely to be sure, but you will make no improper Use of it, and the Times certainly demand a free Communication of Sentiments.

      Adieu

      Your Remembrancer is not yet arrived.


Title: To John Adams from Arthur Lee, 2 June 1779
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Paris June 2d. 1779

     Either my Letter to you of the 29th. March miscarried or you are in my debt. The inclosed MS which belongs to you was seald to go by Mr. Ford and was omitted by mistake.
     This will be delivered to you by the Chevalier de la Luzerne and M. de Marbois, whom you will find to be Gentlemen worthy of the important trusts they fill. I am much obliged to you for your kindness to Mr. Ford, and hope you will take him with you, if he shoud prefer it to going by Bourdeaux. I usd every argument in my power to prevail on Dr. Franklin to let the Alliance persue her first destination, and convoy the fleet after Piquet had left them. But my application was in vain, and the answer was that the Capt. had assurd him she was not mannd. This was on the 3d. of May.
     I have been told that accounts have been transmitted from Nantes to Passy, of your having spoke very freely there of the conduct of Dr. Franklin. I beleive this may be relied on, I think it proper you shoud know it.
     The declarations of Holland and the Nothern powers against the right of England to stop their Merchant vessels, and arming to support their rights, are the most favorable events that have lately happend. Not a syllable from Congress, nor any news from England. Mr. Paine is displaced. I have seen the paper which gave rise to it which is more in favor of the french than truth will justify and in so much it merited censure. We have hazarded our lives and fortunes to some purpose if the factious nod of a foreign Minister can subject a deserving man to punishment in the most open violation of truth and justice. You must correct these proceedings.
     Remember me to my young friend and accept of my good wishes for prosperity to you both.

      I have the honor to be with great esteem Dear Sir, yr. most Obedt Servt.
      A. Lee


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Franklin, 5 June 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

      Passy June 5. 1779
      Sir

     The Chevalier de La Luzerne sat out Yesterday for L’Orient, and will be with you perhaps before this comes to hand. You will find him a very agreable sensible Man, and a hearty Friend to the Cause of America.
     As you may land in Boston and are not certain of going directly to Philada. I have put under his Care my Dispatches for Congress, and request yours for those to New England.
     Mr. Bondfield has drawn on me for 18,000 Livres on Account of the Canon. I cannot find the Agreement that was made with him for that Article. If you have it and can easily get at it, be so good as to send it to me or a Copy of it.
     Mr. Schweighauser in a late Account charges a Commission of Five Per Cent, on the simple Delivery of two Cargoes of Tobacco out of the Ship into the hands of the Officer of the Farmers General, all attending Expences separately charged; and to make the Commission rise the higher, he has valued the Tobaccos at 90 Livres, the Price it now sells at in the Ports, and not at 40 Livres, which it was to be delivered at by our Contract; by this means the Commission on those two Cargoes comes to 630 £ sterling. Thinking this an exorbitant Demand, I got a Friend to enquire of the Merchants upon Change what was the Custom in such Cases, and received the following Answer. “I have spoken to more than ten Merchants, who all have told me unanimously, that One Per Cent was not only the general Custom, but as high as could be claimed being half Commission: For if there had been a Sale in the Case, it would have been two Per Cent. which is the general Usage in the Trade and not 5 Per Cent.” I have wrote to M. Schweighauser that I objected to that Article of his Account, but he seems not disposed to give it up. I find myself too little acquainted with Mercantile Business to be a Match for these People, which makes me more and more desire to see Consuls appointed in the Ports, who might take it off my Hands, and I wish, if you are of Opinion it would be right, that you would press it upon Congress. My Grandson desires I would present you his affectionate Respects, and joins with me in heartily wishing you and our young Friend a prosperous Voyage and happy Meeting with your Friends and Family. I shall take care to present your Respects to the good Ladies you mention. All goes well here: Countenances begin to brighten, and the contrary in England (according to our last Advices) from the Aprehension of certain Event, which may God prosper. I am with great Esteem and Respect, Sir, Your most obedt & most humble Servant.

      B Franklin


Title: To John Adams from Arthur Lee, 5 June 1779
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Adams, John

      Paris June 4 5th. 1779
      Dear Sir

     By advices from America since my last to you, my Enemies are determind to impeach my attachment to our Country and our her cause, per fas et per nefas. This makes it necessary for me to request of you, your opinion on that point, from the knowlege you have had of my conduct while we acted together in Commission. The Calumnies of wicked men, can only be refuted by the testimony of those who are honest and competent, and it is necessary for me to desire this of you least any accident, which God forbid, shoud befal you on the voyage.
     Late Letters from Charles town say they are all in good spirits there. No other news.

      I have the honor to be Dear Sir, with the greatest esteem yr. most Obedt. Humb. Servt
      Arthur Lee


Title: To John Adams from Jonathan Loring Austin, 7 June 1779
From: Austin, Jonathan Loring
To: Adams, John

      Honble. Sir
      Boston 7th June 1779

     I have the Honor to acquaint you that I arrived here the 29th Ultimo via St. Eustatia, sufficiently tired with the tedious Rout I have taken since I left Paris. I was much disappointed in not embarking directly from Holland to America. All my Persuasions with the Dutch, to send out a Vessel for this Continent, proved fruitless; when I had no other Resource left but to come out by the Way of the West Indies, and had embarked, was detained fifty days in the Texel for a Wind, and then followed a passage of 45 days; my Patience was pretty well put to the Test, instead of revisiting my native Shore in two Months, as I flatter’d myself when I left Passy, triple the time had elaps’d before I set foot in Virginia; often Sir did I wish myself by your Fire side, affording you any little Assistance in your important Business, but it was then too late.
     On my Arrival at ’Statia I expected to be detained several Months, on Account of Business, and therefore forwarded by a Vessel, recommended as sailing very fast, and deliver’d to the Care a Gentleman in the Continental Service who went Passenger, your Letter for Congress and all other Letters for Friends, enclosing them to the president of Congress. The Vessel was unfortunately taken and the Letters lost.
     On my Arrival in Philada. I deliver’d a Memorial to Congress respecting my time and Services, in going over with Dispatches to France and my Employment while there; agreeable to the Mode I had the Honor of mentioning to you, Congress unanimously as I was informed granted the prayer of the Memorial, and referr’d the Matter to the Treasury Board for some Gratuity, who thought it best to refer it to the Council of this State, before whom it at present lays.
     You will doubtless receive from Congress and others by this Opportunity all the News worthy notice. It would have afforded me the greatest pleasure and I must confess I fully expected to see the same Virtue Firmness and Stability, which first calld forth the noble Exertions of my Countrymen in this glorious Cause still animating them not only respecting what more immediately regarded the War, but in all other political points the necessary Attendants of it; I don’t mean to intimate that we have grown so sluggish and heavy, or have so far lost our first principles, or are even so tired with the War as tamely to see our Country become a prey to our Invaders, no Sir. Our Virtue is still most conspicuous in this Respect, and our Armies are formidable, not-withstanding the Depreciation of our Currency, but even if this was annihilated the determined Union that prevails in this Instance will rouse a sufficient Force to repel our Foes. The present Campaign its probable, from the first British Onset will be carried on with Vigor, they have lately sent a Party to Virginia and there got footing in Portsmouth from which place expect to be soon informed of Ravages commited, but we are now a little inured to such Depredations, which rather exasperate than intimidate and the Name of a Briton has here become a proverb for Cruelty. It may however shortly return on their own Heads. They also still remain in the unfavorable Climate of Georgia, and expect soon to hear they are attempting Descents in N England. What Steps Genl. Washington will take in Consequence of these Manoeuvres you will soon be acquainted with, its probable he will give a good Account of them. I must beg leave to refer your Honor to the enclosed News papers for further particulars, as I have many Letters to write by this Vessel which will sail to morrow.
     You may remember Sir I alway mentiond Mr. D with Respect when I was in France, and setting aside his commercial Transactions to which I was ever a Stranger I shall always speak of him respectfully. I am sorry he has since his Arrival upon the Continent adopted such a Mode in order to vindicate his Character and to bring others before the public Scrutiny, herein he has acted very impolitic and has blown up a Blast which he will not easily extinguish.—— have been greatly divided in this unfortunate Dispute, hope it will terminate in the general Good.
     I shall with Permission do myself the Honor of writing you from time to time what is transacting in this part of the World and shall think myself particularly noticed to receive a Line from you now and then. Give me Leave Sir, before I finish this Letter to ask if You Dr. F. or Mr. L. are agreeably furnished with Secretarys. I am enduced to be thus free, as I am not certain but I shall take another Voyage to France, and if there is any Employment in this or any other way that you should think worthy my Acceptance, I should esteem it an Honor if you’d inform me of it, or intimate it to Congress.
     I have a little Tea for Mrs. A——which I shall wait on her with and deliver her, as soon as my Baggage arrives in Town. Please to present my most respectfull Compliments to Dr. Franklin and Dr. Lee. Being with perfect Respect & Attachment Honble. Sir Your most Obedient & very humble Servant,

      J. Loring Austin


Title: From John Adams to Edmund Jenings, 8 June 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Jenings, Edmund

      Dear sir
      L’orient June 8. 1779

     Yours of the Second of this Month, was brought to me, but this Moment, and I am happy to find that I agree in so many Points with you.
     The Armament that has been fitting out here, has been a Mystery, as almost every Thing else has. I never was informed, of the intended strength, the Number of ships or Troops, or who was to command— or where they were to go. I never asked any Questions. I chose to be ignorant—determined in order to do as little Mischief as possible, to be as silent as possible. For, whatever may be Said of me, I certainly do not abound with Envy, nor am I capable of endeavouring to obstruct or embarrass any public Measure, by drawing a Party after me, to make my self important. If I had there has been ample opportunities at Nantes Brest and L’orient.
     There is a Phenomenon here however, that surprises me, altho I have not talked much about here, I may mention it to you. Here are two french Gentlemen very agreable ones too dressed in American Uniforms, and I have been told I know not how truly that the american Minister has given them, Commissions as Captains in the Navy. I have not dared to Speak upon this subject but to Jones and Landais, because I knew it would throw it into a Flame excite great Discontents if not throw all into a Flame, because it is contrary to a possitive Instruction of Congress.
     Am surprized to learn that the Expedition is totaly laid aside. On fait et defait — on mande et contramande — on range et derange — et c’est toujours ainsi ici, Said a French Gentleman to me two or three days ago. And if he had Said it, of the Management of our American affairs, in France here I would have sworn for him that every Word of it was true.
     I am wearyed to death, with the oscillations of our Politicks, and I am every Hour more and more convinced that Chaumont and Bancroft will have the entire Guidance of our Affairs, unless the system is wholly altered, and I am sure I have not Faith enough in the Head of the former or the Heart of the latter, to be willing to trust them with my share in this great Interest. Some Machinery will be set on foot to procure a Letter from a Minister of State, to be an Excuse or give a Colour for schemes that nobody will be able to develope or penetrate.
     You Say I may still go home in my favourite Frigate, but you are mistaken. She is ordered on a Cruise and my Baggage is on board the Sensible, which as she is she appears to me to be a dull Sailor, and has but 28 Guns, gives me at least a fair Chance of meeti rencountering an English Frigate of superiour Force being a Witness taking a share in a sublime Battle, and being carried Captive to Hallifax or N. York, which would put it out of my Power to do Mischief good or harm, for some Years, unless as a Random shot, might do for ever. Either of these Suppositions would give Pleasure to some many People, and pain to very few. I am very confident, that neither Case would make me unhappier than I have been for a Year past, and therefore I am not much distressed at the Cont Presage.
     Dont misunderstand this. It was not Versailles Paris, France — French Dress, Cookery, or Gallantry that made me unhappy, for I  but my own Countrymen.
     I have at last received, the Remembrancer, you was so kind as to send me and have read with great Pleasure “the Spirit and Resources of G. Britain considered in twelve Letters.” I shall preserve this Pamphlet and the other with great Care. I hope the Author will continue his Speculations for a Writer with such Talents and such a Temper cannot fail to do much service to the Public.
     I had heard of the Advancement of the Bust. It deserves it—it has merited it, by zealous and successful services to that House—it, or a Noddle as little respectable in my Estimation, by imposing upon honest Men erected the present system, as ill digested and contrived for the public service, as it is flattering to a Pride that was otherwise and before two much flattered.

      I am not dead Mr. Johnson Jennings, nor have I lost my own Feeling or my Love to my Country. And if I can preserve my Head from Balls and Captivity that Voice And that Pen which has been heard heretofore very often and sometimes with Indulgence, shall be heard again. I will not always see the Honour and Interest of my Country, intrigued away and her most solid Characters immolated at the shrine of Moloch and be Silent.

     I had the Pleasure of Some Acquaintance with Mr. Johnson, and of receiving many Civilities from him, at Nantes, and agree with you in thinking him a Sensible, worthy Man, indeed I do not know at present, where to find a Person, more Suitable, but it is a subject that deserves, what our Ld. Coke calls a great deal of Sad Consideration.


Title: From John Adams to Arthur Lee, 9 June 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Lee, Arthur

      Dear Sir
      L’orient June 9. 1779

     Your Favours of June 2d and 5th are now before me: that of 29 March, I have answered if I ever received it, for I have answered every one received from you, but not having my Papers at Hand cannot be particular. Thank you for the Manuscript and the Pamphlet.
     Am happy to hear from you and from all others, so agreable a Character of the Chevalier de la Luzerne, and M. de Marbois the last of whom I have had the Pleasure to see. Wish it was in my Power to do more for M. Ford, and to take him with me but the Frigate will be so crouded, I fear it will be impossible. The Declarations of the northern Powers against the Right of England to Stop their Merchant Vessels, and arming to support their Rights are important Events. The displacing of Mr. Paine is a disagreable and alarming one.
     It is with no small Astonishment, that I learn by your Letter of the fifth, that by Advices from America Since your last to me your Ennemies are determined to impeach your Attachment to our Country and her Cause. Your Request that I would give my Opinion on that subject, from the Knowledge I have had of your Conduct, while We acted in Commission together can meet with no Objection from me.
     But I hope I need not inform you, that my Opinion upon this Point is no secret, at Versailles, Paris, Nantes or Elsewhere. Inclosed is Copy of a Letter, I did myself the Honour to write his Excellency the Comte de Vergennes sometime ago, which for any Thing I know is communicated to all the Court: But the answer Shews that it was received. I had my Reasons then for keeping it to myself, which exist now no more. I would transcribe the whole Correspondence, if it was in my Power but I have not time, and it is Sufficient to Say that it was conducted by his Excellency, with the most obliging Politeness. It is my Duty now to furnish you with a Copy, least any Accident may befall me, which is by no Means improbable. I thought then and am confirmed in that Opinion more and more, that it was my Duty, to communicate my Sentiments at Court, upon that very extraordinary occasion, and from Regard to my own Reputation, I am very glad you have given me an Opportunity of furnishing you with Evidence, that I did this Part of my duty so far forth. The Letter was written, sent to Versailles and received by his Excellency, before the Arrival of the Marquis de la Fayette, his Aid de Camp or Dr. Winship, that is before the News reached Passy, of the new Arrangement.
     But least that Letter should not be Sufficient, I shall inclose another Certificate, not without an heartfelt Grief and Indignation, that Malice should have been so daring and so barbarous, as to make either such a Letter or such a Certificate from me, either necessary, or even pardonable. Your Hint that I must correct Some Things that are amiss, extorts from me, an involuntary Sigh. I shall be in a situation critical and difficult without Example. My own Character at stake from various Quarters, and without any Thing to support me, but Truth and Innocence and you need not be informed that these are not always Sufficient. I have little Expectation of doing good: God grant I may do no Harm. I shall not designedly. But I suppose Congress intend to examine me as a Witness, and I must tell the Truth, the whole Truth and nothing but the Truth, as far as I know it. If the Task should end here, I should not be much embarrassed, but if they proceed to demand of me, Opinions and Judgments of Men and Things, as there is Reason to expect they will, altho I hope they will not, what will be the Consequence?
     Upon the whole, Truth must be my shield, and if the shafts of interested Malice, can pierce through this, they shall pierce me. I have the Honour to be with Esteem and Respect, sir your most obedient humble servant.

      John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Arthur Lee, 10 June 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Lee, Arthur

      Dear Sir
      L’orient June 10. 1779

     I have the Honour of your Letter from Paris of the fifth of this Month, in which you inform me that by Advices from America, your Ennemies are determined to impeach your Attachment to our Country and her Cause, and in which you request my Opinion on that Point from the Knowledge I have had of your Conduct, while We acted together in Commission.
     At the Same Time that I lament the Necessity of giving my Testimony to a Point, that ought to be so well established in every Part of the World, I have great Pleasure in declaring, that from my first Knowledge of your Fame to this Hour, I have never entertained one Moments Suspicion of your Attachment to our Country or her Cause, but on the contrary through the whole Course of that Period, which I think is more than ten Years I have seen frequent Proofs of your Fidelity and Zeal in it often times at a great Expence of Labour and Care at least, and at great Hazard. And particularly, through the Space of Time I had the Honour to serve with you, in Commission, I never Saw nor heard any Thing which gave me the least suspicion of the sincerity, Fidelity, or Zeal of your Devotion to the sovereignty of the united States, but on the contrary constant Evidence of a warm Affection for their Honour, Dignity and Prosperity. I have the Honour to be with great Esteem and Respect, sir Your most obedient and most humble servant.

      John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Edmund Jenings, 12 June 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Jenings, Edmund

      Dear Sir
      L’orient June 12. 1779

     This Moment I received yours of the 16 as it is dated, but I suppose was the 10. You cannot imagine how much I am obliged to you for this Letter and the other of the second, and the Parliamentary Remembrancer. I have read the 12 Letters and am charmed with their Spirit—hope the Author will continue, for his Abilities and Temper must be of great service to our Country.
     Ld. N. is probably, at his old insidious Game, of taking Advantage of certain Disputes, in order to propose Terms. But his Lord ship may make himself easy, for if Congress should never meet again the Seperate states, would be two much for him. Your Letter for Gen. Gates have not received nor any other Letter from you, which I have not answered, but the two mentioned above, which contain Matters of such vast Importance that I cannot enlarge upon them at present.

      I am, dear sir, yours
      John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Leray de Chaumont, 13 June 1779
From: Chaumont, Jacques Donatien, Leray de
To: Adams, John

       Monsieur
       L’Orient ce 13. Juin 1779

      Vous m’avez permis de vous charger de m’acheter des terres en Amerique du produit de 32. grosses caisses de thés, que j’ai chargées dans le navire la Betsi, et comme vous m’avez fait l’honneur de me dire que vous n’êtiez pas negociant, je prie mon ami M. Holker de pourvoir à la vente de ces thés et de vous en remettre le montant pour l’employer en acquisition de terres en prférant celles à proximité des provinces, où vous fixerez votre sejour. Je desire que ces terres soyent plantés de bois propres à la mature des vaisseaux et à la proximité des rivieres navigables ou d’autres bois propres à la construction des vaisseaux, et dont les transports soyent faciles par eau, les charrois par terre sont ruineux. Je crois, Monsieur, que les terres qui produisent les bois de mature, sont moins propres à la culture, que celles qui produisent les bois de chesne et d’hêtre. J’ai l’honneur de vous faire cette observation, parcequ’il faut prevoir les terns ou ces terres seront cultivées. Je ne cherche pas des établissemens de maisons faites sur ces terreins; mais je ne serois pas faché qu’il y en cut assez pour loger des pasteurs, parceque je crois que l’éducation des bestiaux dois précéder l’agriculture, et peut être jugerez vous à propos d’employer une partie des fonds, que vous remettra M. Holker, à peupler de bestiaux les terres, que vous voudrez bien acheter pour mon compte. L’accroissement des troupeaux pourra faire mon premier bénéfice, et ensuite le terns viendra, où l’activité de la marine americaine fera valoir les bois, ensuite la culture amenera la population, et ma posterité se ressentira du bonheur, que j’aurai eû de vous connoitre. Je vous prie de ne pas vous attacher à aucune des observations, que j’ai l’honneur de vous faire, si elles ne cadrent pas à ceque vous croirez plus avantageux pour moi. Je m’en rapporte entierement à vous, en vous priant de considerer que je crois qu’il est avantageux d’acquerir des terres, avant que la paix sois concluë.
      J’ai l’honneur d’être très parfaitement, Monsieur, Votre très humble et très obéïssant Serviteur

       Leray de Chaumont


Title: Leray de Chaumont to John Adams: A Translation, 13 June 1779
From: Chaumont, Jacques Donatien, Leray de
To: Adams, John

       Sir
       L’Orient, 13 June 1779

      You have permitted me to entrust you with the purchase of land in America with the proceeds from the 32 large chests of tea which I loaded on the ship Betsy and, as you have had the honor to inform me that you were not a merchant, I have asked my friend Mr. Holker to undertake the sale of the tea and remit to you the proceeds to be expended in the acquisition of land, preferably close to the provinces where you will reside. I would like these lands to be planted with trees fit for masts or other timber suitable for ship building and near to navigable rivers to facilitate transport by water, since transport by land is ruinous. I think, sir, that lands which produce trees for masts are less fit for cultivation than those which produce oak and beech trees. I have the honor to make this observation because it is important to plan for the time when these lands will be cultivated. I do not seek land with houses already built on it, but I would not be unhappy if there were enough to house shepherds, for I think that the raising of livestock must precede agriculture and you might judge it proper to use part of the funds that Mr. Holker will remit to stock the land with animals that you would purchase on my behalf. The increase of the herds could produce my first profit and, in the times to come when the activity of the American marine will make the trees valuable, the cultivation will lead to settlement and my descendants will enjoy the good fortune that I have had in knowing you. Please do not feel bound by any of the observations that I have had the honor to make if they do not agree with what you think would be more advantageous to me. I leave it entirely to you, asking only that you consider that I am of the opinion that it would be advantageous to acquire the lands before the peace is concluded.
      I have the honor to be very perfectly, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant,

       Leray de Chaumont


Title: To John Adams from James Lovell, 13 June 1779
From: Lovell, James
To: Adams, John

      Confidential
      Dear Sir

       June 13th. 1779

     I shall not look through the Notes in my Almanac to see whether I have written to you 22 or 24 times; I shall go upon the easier Task of acknowledging all those I have had from you vizt. Decr. 6 1778 recd. Feb 16th. 79 answered the 17th. — Sepr. 26th. 1778 recd. March 4th. 79 answd. Apr 28th.
     Three months ago Mr. G communicated to us that Spain was mediating, and that we ought to take speedy, decisive Measures for Peace. London Gazettes told us the first part; and it appears strange that neither Doctr. F. Mr. L. nor you have hinted this matter to us lately if you did not avow it authoritatively. We have some wise men here who are sure they could fish out all the Court Secrets. In the various Attempts to pull down A L to make way for some one to go from hence “who knows all the present Circumstances of America” and therefore could negotiate properly, your want of Ability to give us Information such as we wish or fancy can be had is said to spring from the Suspicions of the french Court respecting One of you; and Some thing like an Attempt to dictate to us a Choice has been seen here. An Extract of a Letter from the Count de V——s has been quoted Je crains Mr. A L et ses entoures; and we are tempted to think that therefore the Communication before mentioned came through Mr. G——But this is different from what was once the Conduct; for Mr. Deane tells us that he was directed to tell Doctr. F what he did not chuse to tell Mr. Lee, or, as he wishes to have it believed, which he was forbidden to tell him. I am persuaded Doctr. F would not readily disgust the french Court in such a Point. If there is any Seriousness in the Business, I suppose the Court stood upon the Punctilio of not having the Compliment of a Minister Plenipotentiary returned at that Time.
     Mr. Lees Enemies have produced nothing but Innuendoes to procure his Removal, while they dare not deny his Integrity and Abilities in our Service. Mr. Deane says the Lees are not fit for Transactions with a “gallant” Nation. But doubtless those Men who want his place would be very gallant indeed on certain Points in Negotiation. The eastern States are charged with wanting what they have no Right to and what is of “no Interest to the southern States.” Plenty are these local Sentiments lately; and R. H. L. with H. L——ns are squinted at as two monsters on the other side of Susquehanna who pursue points in which the southern States have no Interest. Would France or England reason thus on the Fishery? I expect however that we shall coalesce in a few days upon what may be Ultimata ready for some future day of Pacification, when Britain shall be restored to her Senses. She is quite wild and foolish yet in my Opinion.
     You will be scarcely able by our motly Journals to understand what we are about. Why did I vote for your name to be inserted Apr 20 page 10? A Majority against me had before resolved that the Names should be added, — that Doctr. Franklins should be inserted but did not proceed by Yeas and Nays therefore I was entrapped not having my Nay appear on Doctr. F cou’d I say nay to Deane the Causa malorum and as it was not mutual Suspicions &c. I could not exclude you who was suspected and stigmatized in the Report of the Committee, tho’ more to the disgrace of Mr. Izard than yourself, if there was any disgrace in the Circumstance of his imagining that your Connection with the Eaters and Distillers of Molasses had warped your Judgement against the Interest of other Parts of the Continent. Mr. Izard has good Testimony to his many estimable Qualities but his best Friends say he is irascible even when he has not a Fit of the Gout as he unfortunately had when he was writing of Doctr. Franklin, and probably too when he made his Strictures upon your Opinion of the 11th. and 12th. Articles.
     Every Appearance is that you will not be passed over without honorable Notice when the Report receives its finishing Discussion. My own settled opinion of you leads me the more readily to think there is no Plot concealed under the Professions in your Favor which have fallen from Men lately whose general Conduct is of a Kind to make me cry timeo Danaos vel dona ferentes.
     Within a few days only have I gained Possession of that Box which you left in charge to Miss Sprout. I took the easiest Method of conveying the few Things which were in it to your Lady. I sealed all the Papers in neat Packets, and sent them by an Express which was going in an Escort to Boston with Money. The other Articles go in Mr. S. A’s Chest Tomorrow. Thus for my Pains I get the Use of your Box till I go home myself next Winter. The 2 Vols. of Herodotus I sent to the Library.
     I firmly believe that your Friend Lincoln has got compleat Success over the southern Enemy. He will receive Permission to return hither just in the hours of Glory so that he may attend to his Wound which was greatly irritated by his Expedition to Carolina. This Night is the 14th. since we first had the News of his Victory via New Providence. Confirmation is come from several Quarters, but still we have not an Express.
     Tucker has sent in a twenty four gun Ship this Afternoon which did not fire a Shot at him before striking. He is at the Capes with the Confederacy, one of the finest Frigates in any Service as is said by Voyagers.

      I wish you every Happiness being Sir Your affectionate humb Servant
      J L

      A Letter from Col. Warren received this Evening left him well 12 days ago.


Title: To John Adams from Arthur Lee, 15 June 1779
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Paris June 15th 1779

     Desirous as I am of returning you my thanks for the very honorable proof you have given me of your esteem; I cannot wish that this may find you in Port. I am not under the least apprehensions of their succeeding for any time against us personally; but I am afraid they will injure the public and introduce a system of faction and corruption which it will be very difficult to change. For me the best thing they can do is to force me back to my profession, in which I am sure of being independent; and if I had been at liberty I shoud have accompanied you most surely. There is nothing I woud more willingly give them, than my place; and I know there are various ways of serving one’s Country, nor is there any among them more perillous and painful than this. I am sacrifising my time, with my interest and opportunities in my own Country, to a service that certainly deserves every sacrifise we can make, but which shoud reward it at least with confidence and thanks. However I am clear that a firm and prudent conduct on the part of the real friends to their Country, will defeat a faction which, as I apprehend, has deeper designs than is imagind. You will find M. de la Luzerne and the Secretary of the Embassy most worthy and agreable men. Remember me to all our friends at Boston and Congress and be assured I am, dear Sir, Yr. sincere friend and very Humbl. Servt.

      A. Lee

      P.S. Every thing looks well from Spain.


Title: To John Adams from Muscoe Livingston, 17 June 1779
From: Livingston, Muscoe
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      L’orient 17 June 1779

     Inclos’d is four letters which you was So obliging, as to tell Me you would take care of; the Letter for the Governor I will be thankfull to you, to deliver him, Should you have an opportunity Soon after your Arrival.
     The other three, to be put into the post office. I most Sincerely wish you, a Safe and happy passage to America, and there be the happy instrument of Relieving us, from Much Mischief that Must follow, a continuanc of our preasent planns in this Country.
     I have Mentioned to the Governor My intention of Staying here, untill I hear from My Freinds, and that, if any litle thing Should offer, wherein I can Render My Country any Service in this or any other Country that I shall be happy to have the Opportunity, of doing it; Should any thing therefore offer, I will beg leave to Solicit your Friendship Joined to his; and I beg leave to Assure You that it Shall be My Study to Merit your attention.

      I am With Great Respect Dear Sir Your Most Ob H sr
      M Livingston


Title: To John Adams from Jonathan Loring Austin, 7 July 1779
From: Austin, Jonathan Loring
To: Adams, John

      Honble. Sir
      Boston July 7th. 1779

     When Individuals emerge from Difficulties, and by a happy turn of Fortune, suddenly find their Circumstances, not only bettered, but their future prospects very promising, the Gloom of Sorrow, which before clouded their Brows, is removed, and Joy and Gladness resume the place. Its thus with our Country at this happy Period. The Letter herewith, which is a Copy of my last, was a Representation of our lax Situation on my Arrival here, the Virtue which calld forth the Efforts of Americans when threatned with Chains, that Virtue which had lain so long dormant, revives afresh. The spirited and timely Address from Congress to the People of this Continent (which I had the Honor of enclosing you per Capt. Thompson) calld up a Blush, and roused them from their Lethargy; Self Interest was before this the Idol; Monopoly and Oppression advanced with rapid Strides; the Necessaries of Life (tho’ no ways scarce) were at exorbitant prices; and the Money was esteemed of little more value than the Paper upon which it was stamped. This Address awakened the nominal rich, whose Fortunes appeared only ideal, the Farmer adopted the Sentiment, and those in a lower Sphere of Life were forward to remedy the Evil.—At Philada. the combined Effort of all Ranks began. Massachusetts, or rather this Town approved their plan, and in a few days a Stop was put to the extravagant Rise of all Sorts of Merchandize, and the Money visibly grew better in greater Credit, instead of thirty paper Dollars given frequently for a hard one they were last week offerd for ten and refused. Every kind of Merchandize on my Arrival was esteemed better than our Money, at almost any price, Goods have now fell 25 per Cent or more, and the proprietors would be glad to have paper Money for them.
     In the midst of these Efforts, providence as it were approving our Resolutions, and to add Firmness and Stability to the proceedings, blessed us with the agreeable News that the British Troops had received a Check at South Carolina. I have now the Honor as well as Satisfaction of congratulating you and all Friends upon this signal Success, which in its Consequences may have a happier Tendency than the great News I had the Honor of carrying to France. I enclose you all the papers which mention this glorious Event, from the first Rumor here, to the authenticated Account; and hope this Affair in Conjunction with the Resolutions of the Merchants Traders &c. will discover to Great Britain the Folly of her Conduct, and demonstrate to her and to the whole World, that while America continues virtuous she is invincible.

      I have the Honor to be with all Respect and Attachment Sir Your most Obedient & very humble Servant
      Jon Loring Austin


Title: To John Adams from James Warren, 29 July 1779
From: Warren, James
To: Adams, John

      My Dear Sir
      Plymo. N E: July 29th. 1779

     I am Told that in the few Letters which have been received from you here you Complain greatly that your Friends dont write to you oftner, and that you seldom hear from America. I easily Conceive such A Situation painful, and have Contributed my Mite to prevent it by writeing by every good Opportunity and long Letters too, for I know that People in high Stations have their Curiosity as well as others, and if they Assume Brevity themselves in their Letters, they Love to have Matters in detail from others. Upon this Principle I filled a large Sheet which went six weeks ago per Capt. Thompson in A little flying Schooner, which I dare say will run Clear and deliver you the Letter in safety, and make it Unnecessary to be lengthy in this. Our Spirits have been Alternately raised and depressed by the Accounts we have had at different Times from South Carolina. Sometimes the British Army has been wholly routed, and destroyed, and at others were advancing with A prospect of Carrying Charlestown. In Short the Accounts both here and at Philadelphia have been Interrupted, Confused and Uncertain. I dont learn that Congress ever get any regular Official Accounts. I had a Letter from Mr. Lovel of the 18th. Instant, in which he gives such Accounts as they had received from Transient Persons, from which Compared with each Other he dared only to Infer that we might Expect good Tideing from thence. I now hear A Vessel arrived at New London in A short passage, says the Britons had reached their Shipping and Embarked. I don’t Understand how it is that these fellows can prowl about A Country for six Months, with an army of Continentals and Militia all round them, and then get off without much loss.
     Genl. Sullivan is gone into the Woods with about 5000 Men, (An Expedition I have no great Opinion of) while the Enemy have been ravageing the Coasts of Connecticut and Burning their Towns &c &c, According to the true Spirit of Magnanimity, and Humanity of the Plan Expressed by their Commissioners. If there be no Check to their proceedings it seems to me this is their Plan of Operation, for the present Campaigne. If it be Infamous for its Barbarism, or Contemptible for its Malicious Littleness, British Historians and Poets may reconcile it if they Can to their Boasted national Politeness and Magnanimity, or which is more probable deny the facts. The last we hear of them is at Rhode Island. What Town is the object of the next Expedition is Uncertain. I suppose they will soon work themselves out of Stock on that Side unless and must come round the Cape to find new Objects to glut their Cruelty and revenge.
     You will find by the Papers that a Detachment from Genl. Washington’s Army under Genl. Wayne has shewn what the Spirit of Enterprise may do if Exerted.
     We Just hear that Count D. Estaing has gained a great Naval Victory in the West Indies. I wish it may prove true. If it does probably some of their Ships will be sent this way, to avoid Hurricanes, and Assist us.
     Our Continental Ships as well as Privateers have been very Successfull. Many Prizes are sent in. We are now Engaged in An Expedition against the Enemy, who have made a Lodgment at Penobscot. About 20 Sail of Armed Vessels of different forces, Sailed about 10 days ago to Join 1600 Troops Assembled at the Eastward. If the Enemy do not draw off their Force, or reinforce them they are stupid indeed. If they do the last, our Fleet may be in danger, and A Capital Loss may Ensue. I gave you an Account in my last of the deplorable State of our Currency, since which an Alarm of danger from that quarter has become so general, as to form Associations of Merchants and a pretty general Convention of delegates from the several Towns at Concord. I have some Expectations from these measures, whether they sprung from Fear, or a resolute Fortitude, from self Interest, or genuine Patriotism. You will see their several proceedings in the Papers.
     In September we are to have A Convention at Cambridge to form A Constitution of Government.
     This is to go by the Mercury Packet Capt. Samson, who Carries dispatches of Congress. What they Contain I dont know. I hope some Honourable Appointment for You. I have felt some resentment lately for your detention in Europe without being in A public Active Character and Station. I am however Assured by Mr. Adams that A great Majority of Congress have very favourable Sentiments and designs with regard to you.
     There goes Passenger in this Packet Mr. Elkanah Watson A Young Gentleman I am told of very good Character. He is Son of Capt. Watson of this Town, and a remote relation of Mine. He has lived and served his Time with John Browne of Providence, and I suppose is now in pursuit of Commercial plans. He Intends to go to Paris, and seems to be possessed of A Laudable Ambition to be taken Notice of by Gentlemen of distinction. You will therefore by some Attention to him Cherish a good Principle in the Mind of a Youth and oblige Your Friend and Humbe. Servt.

      J Warren


Title: To John Adams from Mercy Otis Warren, 29 July 1779
From: Warren, Mercy Otis
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Plimouth July 29 1779

     This Morning your Vigalent and invariable Friend wrote you a long letter which makes it unnecessary for me to take up my pen nor should I have done it by this opportunity but in Compliance with the Wishes of Him who is so partial as to think it in my power to Contribute to the Entertainment of a Gentleman who (from Interest, from Vanity and from more Noble principles) has such a Multitude of Correspondents. There is such Variety of Genius occasionally Exerted in this way that were it not for the adverse Circumstances which prevents a safe passage you would have little Cause to Complain that you was Forgotten on this side the Atlantic. Your Head would be Replete with Inteligence and your Cabinet Crouded with Epistolary Lumber, among which if you had Leasure to Retrospect you would find several unanswered from a Lady who makes no Claim to a Reply but from your politeness and Friendship. Neither of which will I suspect or Censure till assured in some Future paragraph that you have not time to answer letters but when the Interest of the public or the Indispensable Duties of private Life Require it.
     Certain I am did all political, Military, and Gubenatorial observations which are Designed for your perusal, Reach the Gardens of Passy, You would be willing to unbend a little, by indulging to the Familiar style of Female Compotition.
     But as most of them have been lost Through Fear, Misfortune, Accident or Treachery, I imagine the Avidity is still kept up, and that you open Every paquet with Expectation and desire to Investigate the Plans of statsmen, and survey the Martial Opperations of the Heros of a Country, whose Honour and Happiness you have so much at Heart.
     And though no one is better qualifyed to penetrate the Arcana of American politics than yourself, yet I think you must be surprized at the inconsistency of Character which appears in some, And at a Loss (if not for the stimulus that provoked, yet) for the Influance which Carryed into Execution Certain Resolves which have been painful to the best, and a Rich Repast to the Worst Men that Disgrace your Native land.
     How much longer shall we be Embarassed and Distressed by the selfish insiduous arts of Gamblers Courtiers And stock Jobbers among ourselves, while a Mercyless Foe is laying waste our Borders, Burning our Defenceless Cities, and Murdering the Innocent of all ages and Ranks.
     The spirit of party has Entered into all our Departments. The Deanites, that is to say the Voteries of pleasure, or the Men of Taste and Refinement make no inconsiderable Figure. Some Deify the phantom Fashion: whether she appears in a French, or British, or American Dress; while others Worship only at the shrine of Plutus. Yet the old Republicans, (a solitary few) with Decent solemnity and Confidence: still persevere. Their Hands unstained by Bribes: Though poverty stares them in the Face. Their Hearts unshaken by the Levity, the Luxery, the Caprice or Whim, the Folly or ingratitude, of the times. When we survey the picture we Cannot but sigh with a late Celebrated writer. “Alas! for poor Human Nature.”
     On my way from Boston I lodged a week since, at the Foot of Pens Hill. The Family There are well, and as Happy as possible in the absence of a Tender Husband, And a kind Father. More perticular accounts you will doubtless have by this Conveyance from the Mistress of the Mansion. There I had the pleasure of seing your signature to several short letters which lead us to hope our Calamities will be shortned, or Rather not increased.
     As from a long Friendship with Him, and a perticular Intimacy with His lady, I feel myself sensibly touched by the Death of Dr. Winthrop. I Cannot but mingle a simpathetic tear on this occasion with you, and His philosopic Friend at Passy. Both of whom, so highly Esteemed, and were so intimetely acquainted with His Virtues, in His literary, patriotic, and Christian Character.
     I fear it will be long before Harvard sees a successor that will fill the Chair of the professor with Equal Honour and Ability.

     Let me assure you sir, when I began this I designed but one page but you are so well acquainted with the loquacity of the sex that you will Easily beleive I Check my own inclinations when at the Bottom of the Third I subscribe the Name of your sincere Friend and Humble servant

      Marcia Warren