Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 7 June 1800
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department 7. June 1800

All the papers of both the War & Navy Departments are packed up for removal, & will proceed towards Washington, on monday—I mean to set out with my Family early on monday morning, & hope to arrive at Geo. Town, on Saturday the 14th.—
I have the honor to be / with great respect / & esteem sir Yr. most / Obed. Serv.

Ben Stoddert


Title: From John Adams to William Fitzhugh, Jr., 11 June 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Fitzhugh, William, Jr.

To the Citizens of Alexandria
Alexandria June 11 1800

I receive from the Citizens of Alexandria, this kind salutation on my first Visit to Virginia with much pleasure.
In the earlier Part of my Life I felt at sometimes an inexpressible Grief and at others an unutterable Indignation at the Injustice and Indignities which I thought wantonly heaped on my innocent virtuous, peaceable and unoffending Country. And perceiving that the American People from New Hampshire to Georgia felt and thought in the same manner, I determined to refusing all favours and accept no Obli renouncing all personal Obligations to the Aggressors, to run every hazard with my Countrymen at their invitation, by Sea & Land in opposition and Resistance; well knowing that if We Should be unfortunate, all the Pains and all the disgrace which Injustice and Cruelty could inflict would be my destin the destination of my me and mine.
Providence Smiled on our well meant Endeavours and perhaps in no particular more remarkably than in giving Us your incomparable Washington for the Leader of our Armies
our Country has Since enjoyed an enviable Tranquility and uncommon prosperity. We are grown a great People. Thus City and many others which I have Seen Since I left Philadelphia exhibit very striking Proofs of our Increase on which I Congratulate you. May no Error or Misfortune throw a Veil over the bright Prospect before Us.
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from William Fitzhugh, Jr., 11 June 1800
From: Fitzhugh, William, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Sir
11 June 1800

The Citizens of Alexandria, see among them with sincere Joy, Their revered president. His presence brings to their view, the Constancy and Ability, with which he Laboured in the Vineyard of Liberty when devotion to its cause was surrounded with the Gibbet and the Halter
Her Intrepid and faithfull defender, dear as he then was to the Sons of America, is now more dear from the Additional claim on their Hearts, growing out of his unabated Zeal in extending and Confirming their common Happiness
In this presentment of our respectfull homage to the Successor of our Incomparable Washington—, we cannot but add our prayer that Like him, you will pass through the Storms and vicisitudes which alway’s encircle the highest Stations most admired when best understood
On behalf & at the request of the Citizens of Alexa.

W Fitzhugh


Title: To John Adams from Mr. Blackberd, 14 June 1800
From: Blackberd, Mr.
To: Adams, John

Your Excellency
London Lombard street June 14th 1800

Permit me to solicit your attention to some few questions, having no other means of information that I can rely on, & being desirous of drawing it from the fountain head. If you will have the goodness to order me an answer it will prevent a law suit and lay me under a lasting obligation.
1st. Q. If I purchase patents of Lands, situated in Franklyn County in the State of Georgia, granted to John Callier of  ------ County in said state in Septr. 1796, & sold to me in London by a Mr. Smith acting by J. Callier’s power of Atty for the sale of said Lands, Am I legally possessed of the same according to the laws of America & can I live upon, & have full possession & have them registerd in  as mine without being naturalized according to the Act of Congress, approv’d Jany 29. 1795—If I am the 2nd Q. is Can I convey the said Lands to another Englishman with full right of possession &c, without having it first register’d in the said County or State in my own name as lawful possessor, Or must I take possession in person—
3rd Q. Is there a limitted time in which all Lands must be occupied, or it becomes forfeited? and what is that time.
If in thus addressing Your Excellency I have trespassed the bounds of Etiquet I can only plead my own ignorance & solicit your Indulgence.
That your Excellency may long live happy in yourself, a /  blessing to America, & an Ornament to Mankind is the sincere /  wish of Your Excellency’s most humble & obedt. Servant

Blackberd
P. S Whatever expence may attend your obliging answer shall be thankfully paid in London to the person communicating the same


Title: From John Adams to James Calhoun, 16 June 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Calhoun, James

To the Mayor and City Council of BaltimoreGentlemenBaltimore June 16 1800

I receive with Pleasure this Testimony of Respect from the Mayor and City Council of the great flourishing opulent, and populous City of Baltimore.
Our Country I trust will always abound, as it ever has abounded with Characters in whom she may safely confide the management of her affairs and who will be able so to conduct them as to avoid all the Calamities which can be avoided by good plain human Understandings and sound Integrity of heart, on which the success of Nations depends more than on refinement of Genius or Taste.
To You Gentlemen and to your fellow Citizens of Baltimore I wish a continuation in future of Rewards to their your Industry Enterprise and Faculties and of in proportion to those which have attended you for the last three & twenty years.
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from James Calhoun, 16 June 1800
From: Calhoun, James
To: Adams, John

June 16th: 1800

It is with real pleasure that the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore are presented with an Opportunity of paying their respects to the President of the United States
As Americans we feel all that Gratitude due to you Sir, for your eminent and long Services in the Several high and important offices intrusted to you from the commencement of the Revolution, by which you have so largely Contributed to Establish us, as an Independant Nation and ennabled us to hold a respectable Rank amoungst the Powers of the Earth
Whilst we Sincerely deplore the loss of your Illustrious Predecessor it affords us Consolation to find that America has Other Sons in Whom she may Safely confide the Management of her Affairs, and Who we trust will at all Times be able so to conduct them as to avoid those Calamities which at this time are desolating a Great Part of Europe—

Jas. Calhoun.Mayor of the City of Baltimore


Title: To John Adams from Campbell Smith, 17 June 1800
From: Smith, Campbell
To: Adams, John

Sir
Havre de Grace June 17th 1800

My particular Situation will I trust plead my apology for this indirect channel of approach—Will you oblige me by directing the Secretary of War to suspend any operation upon my Letter of Resignation, addressed to Major General Pinckney, untill the arrival of Brigadier General Wilkinson, who is, I am informed, shortly expected in this quarter, or untill the state of my case shall have been candidly submitted to your observation—The Major General who has been apprised of my situation, writes me that my Letter is forwarded to the Secretary of War “to meet your final determination and pleasure”
With sentiments of real personal respect I have the honor to be, Sir—your most Obedt Servt

Campbell Smith


Title: To John Adams from Ralph Mather, 18 June 1800
From: Mather, Ralph
To: Adams, John

Honor’d Sir,
Portsmouth Virga. 18 June 1800.

Persuaded from the religious and benevolent character which you have hitherto sustained, you’ll readily permit these lines to be read with your usual condescension and patience, I am the more induced to write you, the first Magistrate of the United States, in an open, explanatory and candid manner—I am well aware that letters of address and application must be numerous, perhaps often trying and disagreeable; and were it not that I had some rational expectation of being heard by so enlightened and experienced a legislator agreeable to the importance of the subject now preferred, I might have wholly omitted the trouble I am giving you, and spared myself the pains of writing.
Being somewhat acquainted with the best methods pursued by different governments in Europe, particularly France, England, and Portugal in purchasing Manufactures adapted to their Army and Navy—and being from early age acquainted with the different products and the several stages of manufacturing; I can the more confidently and warrantably descend to a narrative of this knowledge, and how it may be profitably applied to the United States when required.
America confessedly assumes at present a great & growing posture. Her necessary supplies have increased and will still enlarge agreeably to the proportion of the property and country she does and will possess. I need not acquaint you that cheapness and goodness of the articles wanted for public use, must be an object both here and abroad. So convinced of this is France that many of her cloths have been frequently bought undyed. England also will bargain particularly for sail duck for 1/4 or even 1/8 of a penny per yard gain. Portugal goes to the cheapest market and best manufacturers that will supply her. In one instance the king changed the mode of purchase. During the review of his troops a shower of rain, on one side of the coats, produced considerable shrinking: this was observed and he chang’d the manufacturers for others in future on this account.
I do not mean to accuse any one now employed  in the service of Government, and thus reap advantage by such dishonest gain: but if I am not deceived I can assuredly render some service to the treasury by a considerable saving by my mode of purchasing the articles Staple, it requires, proposing a small commission only.
Generally speaking the goods are bought by merchants (not of makers imported) in England, and the importers order of them, and frequently the Naval Agents (I know not the Purveyor’s terms) have 2 1/2 per Cent for purchasing of those gentlemen. Suppose the exporter and importer have each, 10 per ct. the least profit charged, often more. This will yield one fifth of saving and obtain one fifth more by buying on the spot where manufactured as afore proposed.
Great part of the Wollens are bought at the halls of Leeds, Huddersfield, Wakefield & Halifax by exporters to this market, the manufacturer himself being unable to supply quantities. He keeps 10 or 20 looms at weaving only. Consequently the merchant is the exporter.
Now as the Articles can be had cheaper about one fifth (exclusive of larger advances when few of them are to be met with) can it be unwise to act as rational men generally do in buying the pennyworth for own use? Does not government represent this individual?
Linens for example are bought chiefly before or half bleached (bleaching requires about one month to 6 weeks) at, at least 10 to 15 per ct lower than can be bought at Dublin Hall or at Glasgow. Hardware also is not exported by the first makers. Nor do I know of any Sail duck (or other imported Naval stores) not saddled with considerable profits ‘ere it be applied to the use of Ships of War at least 15 to 20 per ct.
Now as this information may be possibly novel and appear presumptive in a solitary individual, I will beg leave to give my motives for rendering it, and why I am the busy body, I believe not, thankless”—
Having had some losses by shipping (the late Secretary of State knew of one instance which he helped me to recover insurance for amot. about 18,000 dolls.) I have had some thoughts of returning to England yet naturalized here; and will send you a larger or smaller quantity with or without benefit, for your approval, if you think fit and prefer it.
In 1792 I landed in America in behalf of several merchants in England when at the instance of Mr. Boulton of Birmingham, I got introduction to Mr. Jefferson that he might examine his coinage which Mr. Washington thought handsome. In 1794 I became acquainted with Mr. Tracey, Genl. Wadsworth, Mr. Coffin &c of New England. In 1780 I was appointed agent to represent grievances of the Manufacturers to the British house of Commons, before whom I appeared nine times, and once before the Queen who thence was the medium of liberating many who burnt the machinery in Lancashire, fifty being in goal at the time. Sir W Meredith the most active in forwarding the petition (signed by near 19,000 persons,) who, before a committee, mentioned the above circumstance of the King of Portugal, paid me (allow the expression) the compliment of possessing and giving “more information about the manufactures than any with whom he had conversed.”
I had then several interviews with this baronet, one with each of Lord North, Sr. F. Norton, Sir G. Saville &c. all of whom heard me in the politest manner, adding “that the manufacturers were too valuable to be neglected.” Several pamphlets on the nature of manufactures were then written & printed by me with the nature of grievances stated; one of these with the petition was presented at St. James’s on the bended knee to the Queen, before a large crowd with unusual trepidation at the moment.
I give you this history not presumptuously, nor in the way of vain boasting, but to acquaint you that I am capable of the task, and that there is a moral probability of performing what is advanced, knowing that for the sake of the loaves & fishes many will pretend to do that which they are not prepared for, nor have any ability to execute.
I would humbly request your attention to these observations, since on the removal of government to the New City Staple articles may be shipped without depending at second or third hand on Philadelphia N York or Baltimore, and so deposited with you. Produce may be also shipped by some merchants, & for this the goods bought, as good Tobacco, Rice, bees wax &c.—all under the notice of the Executive—Merchants are not the proper judges of manufactures; hence the exporters often select the best articles for European use, and dupe the importers here with the leavings. “It will do for America”.
These are facts so well known, assurance only can justify a doubt of it. Thus I beg leave to submit these remarks to your ample consideration, presuming that you will anticipate many of my observations; your information cannot but be equal to it, as well as this country is equal to a small experiment to be made without hazard.
I am with consideration and esteem truly / Sir yr. ob. Servant at Command

Ralph Matherof Baltimore
PS. I beg to receive a few lines from you immediately.
R. M.

NB. If any of my observations afford any satisfaction, your recommending the measure to Mr Woolcott will be very much esteemed, as I learn his department goes to the arranging of such matters. Yours most Sincerely
R M.


Title: From John Adams to Alexander Hamilton, 20 June 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir
Philadelphia June 20. 1800

The itinerant Life I have led has prevented me from Acknowledging the Receipt of your favour of May 24th., till this time. Your Sentiments are very Satisfactory to me, and will be duly attended to.
I anticipate Criticism in every Thing which relates to Col. Smith. But Criticism, now criticised so long, I regard no more than “Great George a Birthday Song.”—Coll Smith Served through the War with high applause of his Superiours: He has Served abroad in the Diplomatic Corps, at home as Marshal and Supervisor and now as Commandant of a Brigade. These are Services of his own not mine. His Claims are his own. I see no reason or Justice in excluding him from all Service, while his Comrades are all Ambassadors or Generals, merely because he married my daughter.
I am Sir, with / much regard your most obedient and / humble Servant

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 20 June 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Sir
June 20 1800

The inclosed letter from John Lasher resigning his office of surveyor & inspector of the customs for the port of N York I receiv’d last night. I believe you have blank commissions in your office one of which I pray you to fill up with the name of Wm S Smith of N.Y. or if you have not a blank, you will please to make out a commission for him & send it to me for signature. for it is my judgment that he ought to be appointed to succeed Mr Lasher in preference to any other candidate.
With great regard I am Sir your most obed & hum sert.


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Chase, 21 June 1800
From: Chase, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Baltimore 21st. June 1800.

I sincerely hope, my dear, and Honored Sir, that this letter will find You at Braintree, in good Health. I take the liberty to enclose You a Paper containing my Opinion in the Case of Callender, which, after Perusal, I request Mr. Shaw to convey to one of the Printers, in Boston, for Publication. An imperfect Copy was printed at Richmond from the illegibility of the Original; but the within is substantially correct.
I pray You to make my best Wishes acceptable to Mrs. Adams.—
I have the Honor to be, / With every Sentiment of / Respect, and Esteem, / Your affectionate Friend, / and Obedt. Servant

Samuel Chase


Title: To John Adams from John Marshall, 24 June 1800
From: Marshall, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington June 24th 1800

I receivd to day your letter of the 20th inst & immediately transmitted to the secretary of the treasury a commission for Mr. Smith.
After considering Mr. Kings letter of the 7th. of April it appears to me most adviseable still to press an amicable explanation of the 6th. article of our treaty with Britain. Whatever the present temper of the cabinet may be a moment may present itself in the course of the summer or autumn when a disposition more favorable to an accomodation conforming to the real principles of the contract, may be found. To give our minister the chance of availing himself of such a disposition it woud seem to necessary at least to suspend our assent to the proposed change in the mode of constituting the board of commissioners. I have conversd with the secretaries of war & of the navy on this subject and they both concur with me in sentiment concerning it. Will you sir be pleasd to give your directions after you shall have decided on the course to be pursued? I cannot help fearing that an intention on the part of the British ministry exists to put such a construction on the law of nations or so to practice under their construction as to throw into their hands sums equivalent to the probable claims of British creditors on the United States.
Repeated complaints are made to this department of the depredations committed by the Spaniards on the American commerce. Is it proper that our minister at Madrid shoud receive any instructions on this interesting subject?
Some Portuguese sailors are at Norfolk in Virginia in great distress. There is neither a minister, consul or any other authorizd agent of Portugal in the United States who can make the necessary provision for them. I have deemd it proper, shoud an application I am about making to Mr Da Costa fail, to make the necessary advances for them & to transmit to Mr. Smith the claim on the Portuguese government which these advances may authorize. If you disapprove of this be pleasd to state your disapprobation that I may if in my power adopt such measures as you may deem eligible
With the most perfect respect I remain Sir /  Your Obedt. Servt.

J Marshall


Title: To John Adams from William Willcocks, 25 June 1800
From: Willcocks, William
To: Adams, John

Sir,
New York June 25th. 1800.

I had the honor previous to this, of addressing a few lines to You on the Subject of a Vacancy in the Office of Surveyor of Customs of this Port—Having some reason to Apprehend, that letter may have miscarried, I am advised to forward this.
It is probable there are more Applicants than one for the place in Question; sanctioned by a long scrowl of names. This circumstance I never did consider of much Value, being by every Man so easily obtained as rarely to be a certain test of the greatest Merit—I could transmit any number of any Quality if the lateness of my Application would well admit of it—
If being a citizen of this Place above forty five Years—If from the time of the Stamp Act to this hour, having been personally, and otherwise, the Undeviating Advocate of the American Revolution, and firm Supporter of the Federal Government, And if having borne a Character next to void of reproach, should entitle a Person to consideration, I think I may without presumption suppose myself entitled, to a portion of the Public favor & Emolument.
All which is however, with due defference submitted to the better Advisement of the President by, / His Obdt. Servt.

Wm: Willcocks.


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Dexter, 30 June 1800
From: Dexter, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir,
War Department Washington, 30th June 1800

I received your favour from Philadelphia enclosing Letter from Capt Boyd, and have written to him as you directed. The Volunteer Corps are in no way affected by the late Law for disbanding the twelve new Regiments.
The Heads of Departments were of opinion that Officers might be nominated in the recess of Senate, though the vacancy did not happen in the recess. I have according to your Letter to my Predecessor and your oral instruction to me given a line to Coll. Tousard, acquainting him that he is appointed Lieut Colonel of the Second Regiment of Artillerists and Engineers, and another to the same Gentleman acquainting him of his appointment as Inspector of Artillery. I find this to have been the former course of the Office, and that Commissions have issued after the Consent of the Senate has been obtained. I have pursued a similar method where Officers of the next grade have been entitled to promotion of course, from vacancies having happened in the grade above them.
There are many vacancies in the Artillery and old Regiments of Infantry, and many of the Officers of the reduced Regiments have been recommended by the commanding Generals and others to fill them. A List of those who appear best entitled is preparing, and when I shall have completed it, it will be forwarded to you for your directions to the Department. In the mean time, I enclose an extract from a Letter of General Pinckney, relative to three Officers, whose situation seems peculiar, and request the favour of your order relative to their being appointed. Inclosed also are the proceedings of a Court Martial: I forward them to you for your decision on the Sentence, not because it appears a case of difficulty, but, the Sentence being capital, it appeared proper to me that the final decision should be in fact as well as constructively your act.
I have the Honor to be, / With profound Respect / and great Esteem, / Sir / Your very obedient Servt.
Saml. Dexter


Title: To John Adams from John Marshall, 30 June 1800
From: Marshall, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington June 30th 1800

The inclosd communication was transmitted to this department in a letter dated the 14th of Jany. last. In a letter receivd from Mr. Adams dated the 7th. of April at Berlin he says that the negotiations between France & Austria were not supposd to be entirely broken off. The points of difference were that France claimd the Rhine as a boundary & that Austria insisted positively on the total evacuation of Swisserland & also probably on the restoration of the Netherlands. Mr. Wolcott arrivd on Saturday.
I am Sir with the most perfect respect / Your Obedt.

J Marshall


Title: To John Adams from R.G. Van Polanen, June 1800
From: Van Polanen, R.G.
To: Adams, John

Sir.
New York June, 1800

The short time I have left to prepare for my Voyage to Europe, makes it impossible for me, to have the honor to wait in person on You, before my departure from America
I can however not leave this Country, without declaring to You Sir, that I have received with infinite Satisfaction by the hand of the Secretary of State, the assurances that my official Conduct has been agreable to You. It has been my constant wish, to merit Your approbation, & nothing can be a stronger recommendation of me to my Government, than to have that approbation expressed by You, who stands as high in the esteem of my Nation, as in that of all what is good and virtuous in America.
Permit me sir, to assure You of my best wishes for your personal happiness, and for the prosperity of Your Government; & that it is with the Sentiments of the highest esteem and the most perfect consideration I have the honor to subscribe myself / Sir / Your most obedient / humble Servant

R G Van Polanen


Title: From John Adams to Corporation of the City of New London, 1 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Corporation of the City of New London

To the Corporation of the City of New LondonGentlemenNew London July 1. 1800

I receive with Sincere Satisfaction this Testimony of Esteem from the Corporation of this respectable City of New London.
The Part I took in our important and glorious Revolution was the Effect, of a Sense of Duty, of the natural Feelings of a Man for his native Country and the native Country of his ancestors for Several Generations, of all the principles moral, and political & religious in which I had been educated: and if it had been even more injurious  than it has been or ever So destructive to my private Affairs or ruinous to my family, I Should never repent it. My Countrymen I did but concur with my Country Fathers Friends Fellow Citizens and Country men, in their Sensations and Reflections, and  to lay no claim more than a common Share with them in the honour of the Result.
It would be devoutly and eternally to be deplored if this most glorious Atchievement  or the principal Characters engaged in it, Should ever fall into disgrace in the Eyes of Americans. In return for your kind Wishes, Gentlemen I wish you every Blessing

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Corporation of the City of New London, 1 July 1800
From: Corporation of the City of New London
To: Adams, John

1 July 1800

The Corporation of the City of New London seize with Avidity your short stay among them, to pay their respects to the first Magistrate of a free & enlightened People; & to join in the general Voice of their Country, in bearing Testimony to the early trying & decided part, which the purest patriotism only could have prompted You to take, in our important & glorious Revolution; we might regret that the Occasion of a personal Interview has been so late afforded, did it not bring with it the Test of Experience to your Wisdom Zeal & Fidelity, in the various Stations to which Providence has called you; that you may enjoy its Smiles, in your present Journey, &, to a distant period, in the continued Esteem Respect & Gratitude of your fellow Citizens, is our devout prayer


Title: To John Adams from Nathan Mayo, 4 July 1800
From: Mayo, Nathan
To: Adams, John

					Sir,
					July 4, 1800

				At a time, like the present, when every heart is overflown at the remembrance of the never to be forgotten Fourth of July:When the public mind is much agitated, in regard to the event of both foreign and domestic affairs:—When a change of administration in the Federal Government is aimed at, which if effected, we apprehend will be productive of great national evils:—When to be most popular, is to be active in fault–finding and clamorous against the laws and measures of Government:When addresses are almost grown out of use, from what they were a few years past:—When calling our reflections back to the first dawn of American Revolution, we behold the many singular advantages this country has derived, through the whole course of her struggles, down to the present moment, by your steady attachment to her cause:—While we behold you regularly pursuing the golden rule, chalked out by your worthy predecessor.We take the liberty of offering a few, among the many of our heart-felt sentiments, in the following very interesting subject, viz:We do most solemnly and sincerely declare to you, Sir, and to the world, that we are generally pleased with the measures of government, both in a legislative and executive capacity, so far as we have understood the business—and,That we highly approve of the disposition of the First Magistrate of the nation for the security of that most valuable and inestimable blessing PEACE, both at home and abroad, upon honourable terms.These we hope will be handed down unimpaired to our latest posterity.But if after all, we should be reduced to the sad necessity of having recourse to arms (which God forbid) for the defence of our country, its Constitution or law, either from foreign-invasion, or domestic commotion, the Jacobins of the day shall not have us among the number to demonstrate the truth of their calculations, that we are a divided people; or that the Lilliputian ties are by us dissolved.During our late struggle for liberty we bore a considerable part in the calamities of our country, which evinces to us the evils of war, leaving on our minds impressions not early forgotten.Yet desperate as the case may be, we are determined to risk our lives and fortunes in the support of our constitutional rights and privileges, it being a government of our choice, and which possesses our fullest confidence.These are sentiments, not from mere matter of form or we should have been among the former; nor yet to run with the current of the times, or we should have been on the other side.Therefore, hope, they will not be considered as improper, or ill timed.Most fervently we pray the Omnipotent God, for a long continuance of your days; and that the same wisdom and virtue, which have hitherto been your attendants, may accompany you through a long extended and happy life.Signed by order, / and in behalf of the whole,

					Nathan Mayo, Chairman.


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 5 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy July 5th 1800

I have received your favor of the 24th of June & thank you for transmitting to the Secretary of the Treasury a commission for Mr. Smith. If Mr. Smith for any reason should decline this appointment, my opinion is that Mr. William Morris of N. York, at present Deputy collector is next in the line of merit & you may send a commission to him.—I concurred with you & the gentlemen you consulted in opinion, that it would be prudent to direct Mr. King to use his best endeavors to bring the British government to some explanations, untill I received yours of the 26th of June with a copy of Mr King’s letter of 26 of April when I fully agreed with you that it will be proper to wait for Mr Kings number 67.—All the complaints made to your department of depredations committed by the Spaniards on the American commerce, I pray you to transmit to our minister at Madrid, with instructions to make friendly representations & endeavor to obtain justice.—I approve of your sentiments, concerning the Portuguese sailors. The duties of humanity will never be neglected, I hope, by the American government. I arrived here on the third.
With great esteem I am Sir your most obedient & hume. sert


Title: From John Adams to John Wendell, 5 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Wendell, John

Sir
Quincy July 5. 1800

I have received your Letter of the 6th. of June and read it with great pleasure. It brought to my recollection a great number of agreable hours Spent in the earlier part of my Life, with my esteemed Friend Mr Edmund Quincy when the general Subjects of Litterature and Science and particularly Agriculture Gardening &c were more talked of than Politicks.
I have as good an Opinion of Mr Gerry as you have and believe him my firm and unshaken Friend. The Massachusetts however has an excellent Governor in Mr Strong, and I am well Satisfied with his Election.
As to the office you mention I advise you to write to Oliver Wolcott Esq Secretary of the Treasury on that subject. I am Sir with / great regard your humble servant
John Adams.


Title: To John Adams from Alexander White, 5 July 1800
From: White, Alexander
To: Adams, John

Sir
Woodville 5th. July 1800

The enclosed letter is from a man whom I presume is unknown to you, all I can say respecting him, is that some years ago he came to Winchester very poor, and has, by industry and economy acquired a hansome property. his sentiments appear to be expressed with so much disinterestedness and sincerity, that I thought it but justice to communicate them
I arrived here a week ago with a view of seeing my Harvest home. I found considerable destruction through the Country by the Hessian Fly, but the season has been so favourable, that the Crop upon the whole will be beyond mediocrity, should the weather, which has hitherto been favourable, permit it to be secured without loss—The information which my Manager gave me, and which I took the liberty to repeat in your presence, respecting my Wheat, was not quite accurate—The Wheat in the best of my hallow ground is very little affected by the fly, that in an inferior soil considerably injured, and a small piece sown late among Indian Corn totally destroyed—About five acres sown late with bearded Wheat after Potatoes and Turnips on ground well manured, seems entirely to have escaped the fly. I find my Neighbours Wheat under similar circumstances to have shared nearly the same fate, I therefore conclude that rolling my Wheat in lime at the time of sowing had no effect, unless it might be by rendering the plant more vigourous
Mrs. White requests that her most respectful Compliments may be presented to Mrs. Adams—
I am with sentiments of the highest respect / Sir / Your most Obt. Servt

Alex. White


Title: To John Adams from Anne-Louis de Tousard, 8 July 1800
From: Tousard, Anne-Louis de
To: Adams, John

Sir
City of Washington July 8th 1800

Accustomed, as you are, to Sentiments of all kind, which those Citizens of the United States, who are attached to your Government, neglect no Occasion to improve, and express, and in which I do Sincerely join them; Will you distinguish those of my Gratitude for the two last favours, which you were pleased to Confer on me. I have lately recieved the two nominations of Lt. Colo. Commdt. the 2d Regt. of Artillery, and of Inspector of the Artillery of the United States: As soon as Mr. Dexter has fixed the duty of that last office, I will repair to Boston.
The two worthy young men, whose commissions you was pleased to order me to tell Mr. McHenry to issue: Lewis Landais and James Wilson, would also have received an appointment of Lieutt in the Second Regt of Artillery, had Mr Dexter found in the office any document to corroborate my assertion. As there is a greater number of applicants, than there are vacancies; a Single line of you to Mr. Dexter mentioning the fact, becomes very important to them.
With the greatest respect / I have the honor to be / Sir / Your most obliged / and very humble Servt

Lewis TousardLt. Col. Inspectr. of Artillery


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 10 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy July 10 1800

Inclosed are a number of petitions for pardons of fines & imprisonments, which cannot be granted. They ought however to be filed in the office of State
I am with great regard yours


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 12 July 1800
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Navy Department 12th. July 1800

The Congress, after her very long detention at Norfolk, I have reason to hope will be ready to sail on the 15 ins.—to cruise a little while in those latitudes where the French Privateers have lately done most mischief—and then proceed to St. Domingo. The Insurgent too, will be ready to leave Baltimore about the same time, to cruise on the coast, & between the Coast and the Islands—The Chesapeak Capt. Barrow, has been on the Coast since the 12th June, & is now daily expected to arrive at New Castle, having charge of a large sum of money from Charleston, for the Bank of the United States—She will not be detained at New Castle, but will be dispatched immediately, to cruise between the United States & the West India Islands—The Brig Pickering has been employed in this service, ever since she last left Boston; she will also soon be at New Castle, for orders. I beleive it may be better to send her from thence to Guadaloupe.
The George Washington is loading at Philada. with Tribute for Algiers—the Portsmouth is gone to France—the Frigate United States and Schooner Experiment, are under repairs in Delaware—The Frigates President & New York, still remain at New York, not yet quite ready for sea—The list of all the other Vessels at foot will shew their stations, & when they may be expected to return to the United States.
I have the honor to be / with the highest respect & esteem / Sir Yr. most Obed. Servt.

Ben StoddertSt. Domingo StationShips NamesExpected homeConstitution16 July 1800Boston25 July 1800Genl. Greeneevery day.Herald18 Octr. "Augusta9 Decr.Trumbull25 Mar 1801Richmond26 Jany. "Norfolk20 May  "CongressConstellation20 Augt.HavannaGanges20 Decr.E IndiesEssex    St. Kitts StationPhilada.   28 Apl 1801Adams23 Apl.Jno Adams12 Novr. 1800Merrimack9 Feby 1801Connecticut21 Octr 1800Balto.26 Septr.Maryland

   16 Septr.Delaware14 ins—Patapoco29 Novr. 1800Eagle13 Augt.Scammel13 inst.Enterprize15 Decr.On the CoastWarren1 August at Norfolk


Title: To John Adams from Jacob Wagner, 12 July 1800
From: Wagner, Jacob
To: Adams, John

Sir
Department of State: Washington City, 12 July 1800.

In the occasional absence of the Secretary of State, who is in Virginia, I have received the inclosed letters from the Judge of Maryland District and other gentlemen, informing of the death of the Marshal of that District, and recommending candidates to fill the vacancy. In addition to the Judge’s intimation of the suspension, by that event, of the judicial functions, I beg leave to suggest, that no acknowledgement has been received at this office, from the late Marshal, of the Secretary of State’s instructions for taking the second census; and as the enumeration is to commence on the 1st. of next month, it is of the utmost importance, that a successor should be appointed as soon as possible. I have the honor to enclose a blank commission for a Marshal, and to be, / With the most perfect respect, / Sir, / Your most obed. Servant

Jacob Wagner


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 14 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy July 14th 1800

The inclosed German letter I received yesterday but as the language is illegible & unintelligible to me I inclose it to you, that if any of your clerks can read it, they may translate it for your edification & that of your humble servant. I have not opened it—but give you full authority for that purpose.


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 15 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Quincy July 15 1800

Inclosed is an essay on a naval academy, which Dr. Morse put into my hand yesterday, in a letter to him from Captain Robert Haswell. It deserves some attention. I direct it to you at Washington city, though as I have no letter from, you, since your arrival, I am not informed whether you are there or in Georgetown. Wherever you are I wish you health & happiness With great regard I am Sir yours


Title: To John Adams from Jacob Wagner, 15 July 1800
From: Wagner, Jacob
To: Adams, John

Sir
Department of State: Washington, 15 July 1800.

The enclosed certificate, which is just received, having a relation to the subject of my letter of the 12th. I judged it best to forward it to your Excellency. The Secretary of State is expected to return from Virginia in a day or two.
I have the honor to be, / With the most perfect respect, / Sir, / Your most obed. Servt.

Jacob Wagner
P.S. Mr. Wolcott has since requested me to enclose a letter on the same subject from the District Attorney of Maryland.


Title: To John Adams from Jacob Wagner, 16 July 1800
From: Wagner, Jacob
To: Adams, John

Sir
Department of State: Washington, 16 July 1800.

The enclosed letters, containing the applications of Messrs. Archibald Campbell and William Wilson for the office of Marshal for Maryland, I received since the last northern mail was closed. I have the honor to submit them to your consideration, and to be, / With the most perfect respect, / sir, / your most Obed. servt.

Jacob Wagner


Title: To John Adams from Jacob Wagner, 17 July 1800
From: Wagner, Jacob
To: Adams, John

Sir
Department of State: Washington, 17 July 1800

Applications for the vacant office of Marshal for the District of Maryland continuing to be received, I think it my duty to forward them, tho’ some of them may probably come to hand too late. Enclosed is that of Mr. W. Matthews, and a recommendatory letter from Mr. McHenry in favor of Mr. William Wilson. I have also the honor to enclose for your signature a passport for the ship Ann Maria, now loading at New York with articles to fulfil the stipulations with the Regency of Tunis. I have ventured to transmit this document in order to save time, as on its return, the Ann Maria will in all probability be ready for sea. The Secretary of State, according to a letter I have just received from him, will be here on the 19th. current.
With perfect respect, / I have the honor to be, / Sir, your most obed. Servt.

Jacob Wagner


Title: To John Adams from Elbridge Gerry, 18 July 1800
From: Gerry, Elbridge
To: Adams, John

Cambridge 18th July 1800

Mr Gerry presents his best respects to the President of the United States, & sends by the bearer ten pair of squabs, of which he requests his acceptance. They have been learnt to feed in indian dough, & when put into the pigeon House, must be supplyed daily with water & gravel, & confined to the house untill they have young—The house should be locked and under the care of one person, as they will not breed, if disturbed: & they should also be furnished with coarse straw for nests—buckwheat the siftings of flaxweed, or sweepings of english grain will answer for their subsistence—Rats are apt to infest pigeon houses, which may be guarded by bricks or baths & planter on the outside.
Mrs Gerry, unites with Mr G in best respects to the President & Mrs Adams & regards to the family


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 21 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy July 21st 1800

Inclosed is a letter from General Forrest, recommending his nephew Mr. Joseph Forrest to be marshall, in the place of Mr Grabell deceased & another letter from Mr. Wilmer, soliciting the place for himself. The letter of Mr. Wilmer is so confidential in its nature and so liable to the imputation of indelicacy, if it should be seen by uncandid persons, that I pray you to return it to me, after you have read it. I hope you will weigh the qualifications & merits of all the candidates & favor me with your opinion. Hitherto without having formed any decided opinion, I feel most inclined to Mr. Chase—partly from a personal knowledge of the young gentleman—partly from the merits of his father and partly from the recommendation of Mr. Martin and the promises of both to advise him
I am Sir &c.


Title: To John Adams from Elbridge Gerry, 21 July 1800
From: Gerry, Elbridge
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Cambridge 21 July 1800

The bearer of this, Mr. Waldo, is the Gentleman whom I mentioned, in a letter which I had the honor to address you at paris, as an applicant for the office of Consul in some part of France. he is well known & was much respected at Paris, altho he was a zealous advocate for the rights of his Country. his character, in regard to abilities, honor, probity, & politeness, stands high with all who have the pleasure of his acquaintance; & there can be no doubt, that he would discharge the office with reputation to himself & the approbation of the Government, as he is a branch of a very respectable family of this State, with which you was probably acquainted, & was educated in the University of this place, you may be furnished with minute information, in regard to him from some of your most intimate friends, & I am sure it will confirm if not enhance that which is now communicated. I have the honor to remain Dear Sir, with the / highest attachment & respect / Your sincere friend & / very huml Sert.
E Gerry


Title: To John Adams from John Marshall, 21 July 1800
From: Marshall, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington July 21st. 1800

With this you will receive a copy of Mr. Kings letter No. 67 to which the letter formerly transmitted to you refers.
If the proposition of paying a sum in gross to the British government in lieu of & in satisfaction for the claims of British creditors shoud be deemd to merit attention, can it afford just cause of discontent to France?
You will receive also dispatches from the American envoys at Paris which reachd me by the last mail & have just been decypherd. I hasten to transmit the originals to you & have not taken copies as doing so woud have producd some delay & it is not probable that any accident can prevent their safe return to the office of state.
On the information given by these dispatches it woud be rash to form and decisive judgement respecting the issue of the embassy, but I am much inclined to think the negotiation will not speedily be terminated. The French government may be inclind to protract it in the expectation that the events of this campaign in europe & certain possible political events in America may place them on higher ground than that which they now occupy.
The instructions given in your letter of the 11th of July relative to the envoys in the mediterranean shall be immediately obeyd.
With very much respect & attachment / I am sir your obedt—Servt.

J Marshall


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 22 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Dear Sir
Quincy July 22 1800

Inclosed is a Petition of Samuel Spring, for a Pardon, of the Crime of forging and passing Counterfeit Bills of the Bank of the United States. The Petition will be better placed among your files than mine: but the offence is of a nature so heinous that without your Advice I shall mitigate nothing of the Punishment.
Col Smith writes that he has not received his Commission: I pray you to send it to him without Loss of time as I have written to him that I have appointed him and he will enter immediately on the Execution of his office as Surveyor and Inspector of the Port of New York in the Place of Mr Lasher resigned. With great / Regard

J. Adams


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 23 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy July 23d 1800

I received this morning Mr. Wagners letter of the 12th & return the blank commission signed, to be filled up in your office. I have read all the letters and recommendations and continue inclined to fill the blank with the name of Thomas Chase Esqr, according to the recommendation of his father & Mr Martin, but if you are aware of any serious objection or give a decided preference to any other, I shall pay a defference to your opinion. I return all the letters. My next inclination is to Mr. Wilmer. I see no propriety in giving the place to any who have been distinguished by their zeal in opposition to the government, though that is not always a decisive objection. I am Sir with great regard &c.


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 23 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Quincy July 23d 1800

I received this morning your favor of the 12th, & thank you for the summary of the stations, & destinations of the Navy. At the same time, I received your other letter of the same date, & have read all its inclosures, which I return with this. Nothing affects me so much, as to see complaints against officers who have distinguished themselves by their vigilance, activity & bravery, in the service as Maley has done; but the complaints must not be rejected without enquiry. I leave this business to your wisdom, as well as the other complaints against other officers. The transgression of the British Captain, in opening the letters of Dr. Stevens to Capt Talbot, can be redressed only by a representation to the court of St. James’s, where so many circumstances of justification or excuse or palliation will occur, that I doubt whether it is expedient to take any trouble about it. If you think otherwise, you may furnish the Secretary of State with copies & he may instruct Mr. King to acquaint the ministry with them. It is not worth while to make any vehement representation about it.
With great regard &c.


Title: To John Adams from David Hale, 24 July 1800
From: Hale, David
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Portland July 24th 1800

Having been appointed by my fellow citizens of the town of Portland to pronounce an oration on the late anniversary of American Independence, I beg leave to present your Excellency a copy of what was exhibited on that occasion—Not from an opinion that it possesses merit sufficient to excite the momentary attention of the Chief Magistrate of these states; but as a testimony of my respect for the talents and patriotism of the distinguished personage, who sustains that high office; and from a wish to manifest my attachment & the attachment of my fellow citizens to the government & laws of my country.
I have the honour to be /  Your Excellency’s /  most obedient servant

David Hale


Title: To John Adams from John Marshall, 24 July 1800
From: Marshall, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington July 24th 1800

I transmit you two letters No. 71 & 72 received from Mr. King. Respecting the jewels for Tunis I think it proper to observe that or looking into the correspondence between this department and Consul Eaton I perceive a letter which states the demand of them as being an encroachment which ought to be resisted as long as possible but which in the last necessity must be submitted to, and in that event it is recommended to him to have them purchased in England. Yet I think it necessary to receive your further instructions before I write to Mr. King on the subject.
I transmit to you also a letter addressd to Mr. Adams our minister at Berlin. If it receives your approbation it is probable that Mr. Shaw will have an opportunity of giving it a conveyance & I shall wish to know you approve it that a duplicate & triplicate may be forwarded. I transmit it to you because there are in it some sentiments further than those containd in your letter. Shoud you wish any change, be pleasd to note it and return the letter. No other copies of the letters from Mr. King have reachd this department nor are copies taken of those which I transmit.
With very much respect & attachment / I remain sir your obedt—Servt.

J Marshall


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Dexter, 25 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Dexter, Samuel

Dear Sir
Quincy July 25 1800

I received last night and read with great pleasure, your letter of the 16 of July. I am very much pleased with your plan, for executing the existing laws for the instruction of the Artillerists and Engineers. I am very ready to appoint the whole number of cadets, provided for by law, viz two for each company or sixty four in all; as soon as proper candidates present themselves, and the whole of the four teachers & two Engineers, if you are prepared to recommend suitable persons. It is my desire, that you take the earliest measures, for providing all the necessary books, instruments & apparatus, authorized by law, for the use and benefit of the artillerists and Engineers. I think with you, that it will be prudent to begin by appointing two teachers and an engineer, & I pray you to make enquiry for proper characters, & to take measures to induce young men to enter the service, as cadets, collect them together, and  for a regular school, & cause the battalions to be instructed in rotation at some regular stations. You may assure the Cadets, that in future, officers will be taken from the most deserving of their members, if any should be found fit for appointment. I agree with the Secretary of the Navy, that it would be highly useful to the Navy, that midshipmen be admitted into the school, by curtesy. Yet there ought to be a school on board every frigate. Thirty persons have been taught navigation and other sciences, connected with the naval service on board the Boston, during her first cruise.—I wish you may easily find teachers. What think you of Capt Barron for one? Every one speaks well of Mr. Bureau de Pusy. But I have an invincible aversion to the appointment of foreigners, if it can be avoided. It mortifies the honest pride of our officers & damps their ardor & ambition. I had rather appoint the teachers & form the schools & take time to consider of an engineer.
I am Sir with great esteem


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 25 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Quincy July 25 1800

Sometime ago, Capt. Nicholson made me a visit in order to lay before me some complaints against the conduct of the naval agent at Boston, Mr. Stephen Higginson. I told him, that complaints of that kind, if made to me at all, ought to be made in writing. In consequence of which, he has sent me the inclosed letter of July 21st, and a copy of a memorandum, signed by himself & copies of extracts of letters from Mr. George McDanniel, clerk of the store accounts, Navy Department, to Caleb Gibbs Esqr. numbered 1. 2 & three. These papers I inclose to you for your information. I mean not to order any special inquiry, or other measures at present but the papers should be preserved
With great regard


Title: To John Adams from John Marshall, 26 July 1800
From: Marshall, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington July 26th 1800

I receivd by the last mail your letter of the 19th. inst inclosing several papers which are disposd of according to your directions.
You will receive herewith a translation of the German letter which was addressd to you. The calculations & the poem referd to, it was deemd unnecessary to translate.
The Spanish minister has on the part of his sovereign claimd the restoration of the Sandwich captured by Capt. Talbot in porto del plato as having been taken in a spanish port. Porto del plato is in that part of St. Domingo which was by treaty stipulated to be surrenederd to France but which has still in fact remaind in the possession & under the government of the Spanish Crown. I supposd it to be perfectly clear that the capture was not authorizd & that it was an unintentional violation of the rights of spain. I consulted the heads of departments on the case & they all concurd with me in opinion respecting it. Under these circumstances it was beleivd that it would be more agreeable to you that I shoud immediately act than that an answer shoud be with held until your opinion coud be obtaind. I have therefore directed the Sandwich to be given up to the minister of his Catholic Majesty. I hope Sir you will not be dissatisfied with this measure.
I transmit you by this Mail a letter receivd some time past from the Spanish Minister respecting Genl. Bowles. I have informd him that the letter is laid before you you & have requested him to furnish this department with such further information as he may receive & may chuse to communicate.
I have mentiond to the heads of departments the suggestion containd in Mr. Kings letter concerning the payment of a gross sum in satisfaction of the claims of the British creditors under the 6th. article of our treaty of amity &c with that nation. It is their opinion that the proposition merits consideration & they think that if a sum not exceeding five milion of dollars or perhaps a milion sterling woud be receivd that sound policy woud direct the compromise. I am greatly inclind to beleive that we shall never be able to extricate ourselves from this affair on better terms.
I am Sir with respectful attachment / Your Obedt. Servt
J Marshall


Title: To John Adams from Alexander White, 26 July 1800
From: White, Alexander
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington 26th July 1800

The Harvest in Virginia having been more tedious than usual prevented me from returning to the City till yesterday
I had the pleasure of seeing, not only my own grain, but that of my Neighbours generally secured; for altho’ frequent showers delayed the getting it in, there were no great rains to occasion loss—And I had the further pleasure to observe (notwithstanding the destruction by the Fly, which few Farms entirely escaped, and which on some was very great) very plentiful crops of small grain and Grass, and most favourable prospects of Indian Corn and Potatoes, so that from present appearances this may be considered as a year of plenty—
I now enclose you the letter formerly mentioned, trivial as it may be, and remain with sentiments of the highest respect / Sir /  your most Obt Servt

Alexr White


Title: To John Adams from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 26 July 1800
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Treasury Department Washington July 26th. 1800

I have the honour to enclose a copy of a Letter from John Couper Esquire, who was lately appointed Collector of the Customs for the District of Brunswick in Georgia, and Inspector of the Revenue for said Port, from which it appears that he declines a permanent appointment.
The information which I possess of Mr. Coupers character, induces me to believe that his recommendation of Mr. Claud Thompson is entitled to confidence, and as the choice of Candidates is exceedingly limited, I take the liberty to submit his name for consideration and in case the President shall be pleased to decide in favor of an appointment, I will apply to the Secretary of State for Commissions.—
I have the honour to be / with perfect respect / Sir, / Your obedient Servant

Oliv. Wolcott


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 27 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy July 27th. 1800

I have received Mr. Wagners letter of the 17 & have read Mr. W Mathews’s application for the office of Marshall & Mr. Mc. Henry’s letter to you in favor of Mr. William Wilson. These papers I return inclosed together with the passport for the Ann Maria signed
with great esteem


Title: To John Adams from William Hindman, 28 July 1800
From: Hindman, William
To: Adams, John

Sir
Bellfield near Easton July 28th 1800

If timely enough in my Application, I shall esteem it a particular Favor, if You would be kind enough to confer on Mr: Archibald Campbell of Baltimore the Marshall’s Office of Maryland, vacant by the Death of Mr: Greybell—Mr: Campbell is fully qualified to discharge the Duties of the Office.—
I am / with the highest Respect / Yr: very hble Servt
Wm. Hindman


Title: To John Adams from Rufus King, 28 July 1800
From: King, Rufus
To: Adams, John

dupte.
Sir
London July 28. 1800.

I avail myself of the opportunity of a vessel about sailing from Hull for Boston, to say that a Danish frigate with a small number of ships under her convoy, having resisted a search attempted by a squadron of British frigates, has together with the merchant ships been captured and sent into an English Port. Several persons on each side were killed in the action between the frigates.
If Denmark on this occasion acts in concert with the other Northern Powers, this rencounter may be followed by most important consequences. Some very recent regulations adopted in France respecting the importation of English Productions in neutral bottoms are supposed, but with what truth I am unable to judge, to have relation to the dissatisfaction of the Northern Powers towards England—The Armistice concluded in Italy has been extended to the Armies upon the Rhine and the Danube, and appearances are strongly in favor of the existence of a negotiation for Peace.
I hear and know nothing of our Envoys.
With the most perfect Respect, / I have the honor to be / Sir, / Your obedt: & faithful Servt.
Rufus King


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Dexter, 30 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Dexter, Samuel

Dear Sir
Quincy July 30th 1800

I received but last night your favor of the 19th. I return the warrant for the execution of the sentence of the Court marshall on Samuel Ewing signed.
With great Esteem &c.


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 30 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy July 30 1800

I have received your favor of the 21st and have read the respectable recommendations inclosed in favor of Mr Lloyd Beal & Mr. Kent Rawlings to be Marshall of Maryland. I return all these letters to you in this. With the advantages of Mr. Thomas Chace in the opportunity to consult his father & Mr. Martin, I still think that his appointment is, as likely to benefit the public, as that of any of the respectable candidates would be. Your knowledge of persons, characters & circumstances are so much better than mine and my confidence in your judgment & impartiality so entire that I pray you, if Mr Chase should not appear the most eligible candidate to you, that you would give the commission to him whom you may prefer.
With great regard &c


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 31 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy July 31 1800.

Last night the consul of Spain, Mr. Stoughton, came out to Quincy upon the important errand, of delivering to me in my own hand, according to his own account of his orders, the inclosed letter, demanding of the government, a fulfillment of the fifth article of our treaty with Spain. Although I see no sufficient reason in this case, for deviating from the ordinary course of business, I shall take no exception to this proceeding on that account; but I desire you to communicate this letter to the Secretary at War, & concert with him the proper measures to be taken. Orders I think should be sent to Mr. Hawkins & to General Wilkenson to employ every means in their power to preserve the good faith of the according to the stipulation in this fifth article of the treaty with Spain. And I also desire you would write a civil & respectful answer to this letter of the Chevalier, still the Minister of the king of Spain, assuring him of the sincere friendship of the government for the Spanish government & nation, & of our determination to fulfill with perfect good faith, the stipulations in the treaty, & informing him, that orders have been given or shall be immediately given to the officers of the United States, civil & military, to take all the measures in their power for that purpose
With great regard


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 31 July 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Quincy July 31st 1800

Inclosed is a list of grounds, which I have determine to purchase for the United States for a Ship yard & a dock yard. Inclosed also is a platt of those grounds, & a letter from Aaron Putnam Esqr of the 29 of July. I pray you to authorize him, to purchase all the lands, according to the list & platt, & to transmit him the ten thousand dollars, to enable him to fulfill immediately the contracts, he has already made. It is of vast importance to the United States, to embrace the present opportunity of obtaining those lands.
With great esteem &c


Title: To John Adams from John Trumbull, July 1800
From: Trumbull, John
To: Adams, John

Copy
Sir
July 1800

Your Friends in Hartford were exceedingly disappointed, that they had not the Pleasure of Seeing writing or seeing You on your Return from Philadelphia, but supposed, that an Inclination to seeing visit a Part of the State of Connecticut in which you had not travelled, & visit the State of Rhode Island, induced you to vary your accustomed Route.
A Report has since been triumphantly circulated, that you changed the course of your Journey by the advice of a certain Gentleman at Newhaven, & in consequence of the information he gave you concerning the present of the disposition of the People of this City. As none of us, could from our own knowlege directly contradict it, we have been obliged in some degree to submit to the mortification in silence,—Though For myself I should have paid no attention to the Story, & I own that I give you this trouble more in compliance with the request of others, than from any doubts or feelings of my own.
You doubtless recollect that at Newhaven You had the unexpected Pleasure of a Visit from a certain Gentleman of great public notoriety, who joins to all the sublime Loquacity of modern Eloquence, that inestimable antient ornament of defence, the Murus ahænius of Horace Nulla pallescere culpa.—If we are to believe the Reports coming from himself, & circulated by the Party, whom he at now affects to aid & influence, he was then so animated with the overflowings of Patriotism and Friendship, as to inform You not only of all that had been thought or said, but of all that might, could would, should or ought or ought not, or never would be thought or said, against the President of the U. S—and to conclude by asserting that the People of Hartford were wholly governed by a few four of or five Men, some of whom had lately arrived from the seat of Government, that all of whom were decided Partizans of the Ci devant  Secretary of State——& that you would at best be received here with the most pointed & contemptuous neglect, and might be happy if You escaped without personal insult—
That You received his advice with cordial gratitude & any immediately shaped your course for New London.
I know not, (for I have not conversed with him, when he was last here) that he has asserted all these particulars—but I know that all this and more has been asserted by many Persons in his confidence from the accounts he has given them of that interview & conversation. I ought perhaps in justice to add that he now declares himself the Proselyte of your Virtues, & even in some degree of your Talents, & believes You almost as good a Friend to the Rights of Man, as himself.
I will proceed no further, least You should think me imitating the Gentleman to whom I have alluded, & turning Volunteer Spy and Intelligencer. In fact had You given Hartford the honour of a Visit, You would at that time have met from all Parties with more than usual marks of Attention & respect. Many were desirous of convincing You; that they did not consider the President’s exertion of his constitutional right of displacing a subordinate Executive officer, as a matter of National concern, that while they had felt no dissatisfaction at the con— con— conduct of Administration in Public & consequential measures, no minuter clamours could shake the foundation of their confidence, & that, of the necessity or propriety of the Measure, they pretended not at that time to be possessed of the Evidence, or the Right, which could enable them to judge or decide,
&c
J. Trumbull


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 1 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy August 1st 1800

I have twice read the dispatch of Mr. King, No. 67. inclosed in your favor of the 21st of July. I am glad to see that Lord Grenville expressed his opinion, that the new board ought to proceed in a different manner from their predecessors, by deciding cases singly one after another, instead of attempting to decide them by general resolves & in classes.—The idea of paying a gross sum to the British government in lieu of & in satisfaction for the claims of British creditors, seems to me to merit attention & mature consideration. There will be great difficulties attending it no doubt. How can we form an estimate that will satisfy the American government & the British government? How shall the claims of British Creditors be extinguished or barred from recovery in our courts of Law? Shall the claim of the creditor be transferred to our government; & how–or shall it be a total extinguishment of debt & credit between the parties? How will the British government apportion the sum among the British creditors? This however is their affair. You ask an important question, whether such an arrangement can afford just cause of discontent to France? But I think it must be answered in the negative. Our citizens are in debt to British subjects. We surely have a right to pay our honest debts in the manner least inconvenient to ourselves & no foreign Country has any thing to do with it. I think I should not hesitate on this account. The difficulty of agreeing upon a sum is the greatest, but I am inclined to think this may be overcome. If nothing of this kind can be agreed on & the British government refuse all explanations, I think that good faith will oblige us to try another board & I have so little objection to the modes of appointing a new board, suggested to Mr. King by our government or by the British government that I am content to leave it to Mr. King to do the best he can. I shall keep the copy of Mr. Kings dispatch No 67. presuming that you have the original
With great regard


Title: To John Adams from Alexander Hamilton, 1 August 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adams, John

Sir
New York August 1. 1800

It has been repeatedly mentioned to me that you have, on different occasions, asserted the existence of a British Faction in this Country, embracing a number of leading or influential characters of the Federal Party (as usually denominated) and that you have sometimes named me, at other times plainly alluded to me, as one of this description of persons: And I have likewise been assured that of late some of your warm adherents, for electioneering purposes, have employed a corresponding language.
I must, Sir, take it for granted, that you cannot have made such assertions or insinuations without being willing to avow them, and to assign the reasons to a party who may conceive himself injured by them. I therefore trust that you will not deem it improper that I apply directly to yourself, to ascertain from you, in reference to your own declarations, whether the information, I have received, has been correct or not, and if correct what are the grounds upon which you have founded the suggestion.
With respect / I have the honor to be Sir / Your obedient servt:

Alexander Hamilton


Title: To John Adams from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 1 August 1800
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Sir
Treasury Department August 1st: 1800.

I have the honour to acknowledge the President’s Letter of July 22d:—The Commission for Colo. Smith as Surveyor of the Port of New York was received and directed by me to be transmitted soon after my arrival at this place—His acknowledgment of the Commission was received about ten days since.—
Presuming that it was the President’s intention that the usual commission of Inspector of the Revenue should be granted, I have applied to the Secretary of State:—when issued, it will also be transmitted—
I shall immediately cause enquiry to be made into the facts stated in the petition of Samuel Spring, upon which I will report as soon as possible.—
I have now the honour to enclose the petition of Slocum Fowler, with the papers accompanying it; also the draft of a pardon in case the President shall judge proper to remit the penalty incurred by the Petitioner.
I have the honour to be / very respectfully, / the President’s obedt. servt.

Oliv. Wolcott.


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 2 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy Aug 2d 1800.

Last night I received your favor of the 24th of July. The letter to Mr. Adams dated the 24th of July, I have read & as I see no reason to desire any alteration in it, I shall give it to Gen Lincoln, the collector at Boston, to be by him sent to Hamburg or Amsterdam, by the first good opportunity. The duplicate & triplicate you may send by such opportunities as may be presented to you. Mr. Kings dispatches No 71 & 72 I have read and if you think proper, you may authorize Mr. King, if he thinks it proper to communicate to the court, in any manner he thinks most decent, the congratulations of his government, & if he pleases, of the President, on the kings fortunate escape from the attempt of an assassin—The mighty bubble, it seems, is burst of a projected combination of all the North of Europe against France. This mighty design, which was held up in terror before my eyes to intimidate me from sending Envoys to France is evaporated in smoke. Indeed I never could hear it urged against the mission to France without laughter.—The Jewels for Tunis are a more serious object. When I read over all the dispatches from the Barbary states, I remember your predecessor consulted me, concerning these jewells. His opinion was, that it was best to make the present, rather than hazard a rupture. After the expenditure of such great sums, I thought with him, that it would be imprudent to hazard an interuption of the peace on account of these jewells; & I presume he wrote to Mr. Eaton or Mr. Smith accordingly. I am still of the same opinion.
I see no objection against requesting Mr. Smith & all the consuls in the Barbary States to keep Mr. King informed of the general state of affairs. It will be of service to the public that our minister at London should know as much information as possible concerning our affairs in those Countries. I return Mr. Kings dispatches 71 & 72.
With high regard,


Title: To John Adams from John Marshall, 2 August 1800
From: Marshall, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington Aug. 2d. 1800

I have just receiv’d your letter of the 25th of July inclosing the recommendations of several gentlemen for the vacant office of Marshal for this district.
I am sensible of the confidence you place in me, when you authorize me to fill the commission with the name of such person, as on the best information I can collect, shall appear most proper; & I shoud not have hesitated to insert the name of Mr. Chase had I not supposd that the reasons assignd against his appointment by Mr. Stoddart, had some weight, and might probably produce a change in your wishes on that subject. I shall therefore postpone filling up the commission until I receive your answer to my letter stating Mr. Stoddarts observations on the different candidates.
I have just receivd a lettere from a Mr. Richard Tripe of Dover in New Hampshire stating that his son Daniel Tripe & another sailor are now detaind in prison in Guadaloupe, that the government of that island refuses to exchange them & threatens to prosecute & punish them criminally. Their offence is having retaken the Rebecca Henry the vessel in which they had saild from Portsmouth & which had been capturd by a french privatier, & having killd the prize Master in the act of rescuing the vessel. The next day the Rebecca Henry was taken by another privatier from the same island & carried into Guadaloupe. In such a case it seems to me proper to remonstrate against such a prosecution & to threaten retaliation if the prisoners shoud be executed. I shall however suspend my letter til I receive your instructions on the subject.
The commissioners under the Spanish treaty have awarded in favor of Messrs. Gregorie & Pickard of Boston the sum of 8487 2 ½ /100 dollars which award has been presented to the Spanish government & payment there of has been refusd because Mr. Viar the Spanish commissioner has refusd to not signd it—His reason for withholding his signature is that Messrs. Gregorie & Pickard have become American Citizens since the acknowledgement of our independence by the British government in 1783.
This act appears to me to be a direct violation of our treaty with Spain & I presume ought to be complaind of thro’ our minister at Madrid.
With the most respectful attachment / I remain Sir your obedt. Servt.
J Marshall


Title: To John Adams from John Marshall, 2 August 1800
From: Marshall, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington Aug. 2d. 1800

I transmit you a letter receivd some time past from Mr. Sitgreaves as being connected with the letters of Mr. King on the same subject.
I am Sir with very much respect / your obedt servt.

J Marshall


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Dexter, 3 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Dexter, Samuel

Dear Sir
Quincy Aug 3d 1800

I recommend the inclosed letter from Mr. David Peter, for Robert Peter, recommending his son George for an appointment in the Artillery to your attention, with all other applications of a like nature, when you form a list of appointments
With sincere regard &c.


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 3 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Quincy August 3d 1800

I know not whether the inclosed letter from Lady Catharine Duer has not excited too much tenderness in my feelings, but I cannot refrain from inclosing it to you & recommending it to your serious consideration. If it is possible without material injury to the discipline of the Navy, to accept of the resignation of this unhappy youth, I pray you to do it. I had almost said that this letter, at the first reading, excited as much of a temporary indignation against the Captain, for suffering these dinners at St Kitts, as it has of a permanent pity for an unfortunate family. Capt Little has returned without the loss of a man by sickness, & with a ship in perfect health only by keeping always at sea
With sincere regard &c


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Dexter, 4 August 1800
From: Dexter, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir
War Department 4th August 1800.

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of the 24th ulto.
I have enquired of General Pinckney and a variety of other military Gentlemen for an American capable of superintending a school for Engineers; but do not see much prospect of success. Our Countrymen have had no regular education of this sort, and but little experience. You mention appointing Teachers only for the present—Perhaps Mr: Foncin, now superintending the fortifications at Baltimore, might be appointed one of three in that case. Being educated an Engineer in the best school in France, he might aid very much in that Department, and an American Mathematician might be appointed to superintend the School as the principal Teacher. I mention Mr. Foncin because probably he might accept of this subordinate appointment, but Mr. Pusy would not. Perhaps the objection to appointing Foreigners might not be so forcible in your mind against this plan as the one before proposed.
Mr: Barron I am told is a very good mathematician.
Application has been made for the appointment of a Commission or Commissioners to hold a Treaty with the Southern Indians for some land lately sold by North Carolina. An Appropriation was made for it, if I mistake not, at the last Session of Congress. Colo. David Vance has been recommended by the Comptroller of the Treasury, and Messrs. Dickson, Henderson, Hill and Grove, Representatives from North Carolina. Mr: Steele also mentions Mr: Sevier, Governor of Tennessee as a fit man. They are both named as useful in point of influence as well as information and as well disposed towards the Government. Shall I be honored with your Instructions on this subject?
I have the Honor to be / Sir / With perfect respect & esteem / Your obedt. & faithful Servt.

Saml. Dexter
P.S. Since writing the above I have been referred to a Letter from Captn. Edward Butler, received at the War Office on the 7th of June, covering a statement of Information given him relative to Governor Sevier, by Bloody Fellow, an Indian Chief. I enclose a Copy thereof for your information.


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Dexter, 6 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Dexter, Samuel

Sir
Quincy August 6th 1800

Inclosed is a letter from Gen. Knox recommending Jonathan Williams Esqr to some appointment. Mr. McHenry once thought of appointing him a Major of Artillery. Mr. Williams has abilities for many sorts of useful service & I recommend him to be placed on your list of candidates.
With sincere regard &c


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 6 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy Aug 6th 1800

Inclosed is a letter from Capt Seymour Potter of Boston with recommendations from several respectable characters for a lieutenancy in the Navy, from his appearance & behavior & the character I hear of him, I believe he will be a good officer, & if there is a vacancy, you may appoint him. Inclosed is a letter from lieutenant Haswell recommending his brother John Montresor Haswell to be a midshipman. This young gentleman I have seen, & was so much pleased & satisfied with his person & deportment, that I pray you to send him a warrant as a midshipman
With sincere esteem &c.


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 7 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy August 7. 1800

Inclosed is a Letter from a worthy Clergyman of Braintree who has invented a very ingenious machine to facilitate that necessary domestic operation called Washing; which, by the concurrent testimony of those who have Used it, Saves, two days labour out of three.
A Patent was granted him long ago: but by the inclosed Letter it was sent back for some Amendment. I pray you to send on his Patent as soon as may be. You will find it and the Letters concerning it in the office no doubt. With Sincere / regard &c

J. Adams


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 7 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy August 7th 1800

I inclose to you a letter from Governor Trumbull of Connecticutt, a petition for a pardon from Isaac Williams, in prison at Hartford for privateering under French colors. His petition is seconded by a number of very respectable people. I inclose many other papers relative to the subject, put into my hands yesterday, by a young gentleman from Norwich, his nephew. The mans generosity to American prisoners, his refusal to act, & resigning his command, when he was ordered to capture American vessels—his present poverty & great distress are arguments in favor of a pardon, & I own I feel somewhat inclined to grant it. But I will not venture on that measure, without your advice & that of your colleagues. I pray you to take the opinion of the heads of departments upon these papers, & if they advice to a pardon, you may send one.
With high esteem &c.


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 7 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Sir
Quincy Aug 7th 1800

I have just received your favor of July 29th. The merit of Judge Chase of which I have been a witness at times for six & twenty years are very great in my estimation & if his sons are as well qualified as others, it is quite consistent with my principles to consider the sacrifices & services of a father, on weighing the pretensions of a son. The old gentleman will not last very long, & it can hardly be called accumulating officers in a family, to appoint the son of a judge of the United States Marshall of a particular state. However I have so much defference for the opinion of Mr Stoddert especially in an appointment in his own state that I will wave my own inclination in favor of his judgment & consent to the appointment of Major David Hopkins
With great regard


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Dexter, 7 August 1800
From: Dexter, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir
War Department, 7th August, 1800.

I am honored with your favor of the 30th: ult: enclosing the Warrant for the Execution of Samuel Ewing signed.
Lieut. Col. Hamtramck writes to me under date of the 16th ulto.—
“The Crime of Samuel Ewing is no doubt of the most heinous nature, but the extraordinary conduct of the Prisoner, having deserted on one day returning on the next, and declaring War against a whole Garrison, appears to me to have been the effect of a deranged brain, and not of a wilful intention; of this however the President will be the best judge.”
I shall postpone acting upon the warrant until I hear again from you on the Subject.
I have the honor to be / with profound respect / Your faithful servt
Saml. Dexter


Title: To John Adams from Christopher Gore, 8 August 1800
From: Gore, Christopher
To: Adams, John

Sir
London 8. August. 1800—

I am desired, by Monsieur Saladin, to forward the inclosed for your perusal. It was written, & published the last winter, but its contents being disagreeable to the Government, the Sale was suppressd.
Among the various, & extraordinary events, which take place in the present War, that of the Resistance of a Danish Convoy to a search, seem’d to be of some significance; especially, as this Resistance was in conformity to the express orders of the King of Denmark. But as Russia, though extremely cold towards England, appears indisposed, according to accounts here, to cooperate with the Naval Powers of the North, there is reason to believe the Affair will be compromised.
Our last accounts from Paris are to the 5th instant, but are no other than what the public papers afford. A Mr Grant who left that city 25th. ult. knew nothing of the State of Negotiation between your Ministers, & France. He supposed that; at his Departure; the Conferences were suspended, but while he was detained at Calais, he receiv’d a letter from an American, Mr Mitchel, which mentiond that the negotiation was resumed, and likely to end satisfactorily—As the American Envoys preserve Secrecy in all their transactions, nothing can be relied on from either of these Reports, and they are mention’d only as stories in circulation here, while you, doubtless, have direct, & later information, which probably shows that they are without any foundation.
An American Vessel, bound from NYork to Bristol, and laden with Naval Stores, according to accounts in the English News Papers, has been captured by a French privateer, & orderd to France. This has given occasion to the Underwriters, at Lloyds, to raise the Premium of Insurance from England to the U. States, on Vessels belonging to the latter, from 5 to 10 per Cent—I have the Honor to be, Sir, with the / most perfect Respect, Your / very obedient, Humble servant

C. Gore


Title: To John Adams from John Marshall, 8 August 1800
From: Marshall, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington Aug 8th 1800

I herewith transmit to you a letter from Mr. King, which I only receivd yesterday, accompanying a complaint made by the Swedish Charge des affaires against two American Captains for an injury done a swedish vessel & an insult offerd to their flag. I have written to day to the collector of Charleston South Carolina at which port the two persons complaind of were commissioned requesting him to have their conduct inquired into. In the meantime I presume it will be adviseable to write to Mr. King requesting him to assure the representative of his Swedish majesty that such conduct if intentional will be strongly discountenancd by the American government which has set on foot enquries concerning it.
In fact I suppose that the American Captains proceeded under the mistake that the swedish cutter was a french privatier & I presume that some general &c elevations of good will & respect on our part will be all that can be required from us. I postpone writing to Mr. King till I receive your instructions.
I remain Sir with very much respect / Your obedt. Servt

J Marshall


Title: To John Adams from Turell Tufts, 8 August 1800
From: Tufts, Turell
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Paramarter Augt 8. 1800

I think it proper to inform you personally that having recd. a Newspaper containing, an Account of the dismissal of Mr Pickering and the resignation of McHenry, as well as the nomination of Mr Marshall & Mr Dexter to fill their places I imagined it would be well with for me to communicate these important changes in Office to His Execley the Govr. and to Genl Magan. as the treatment of Americans here—rather indicated expectation of war & as the knowledge of it Communicated by me would Gather my impressions—and not an impression which these changes would naturally make on the mind of an Englishman, judging of the Political character of the Gentlemen displaced.—I accordingly waited on the Govr. & communicated the event—and was immediately asked with much earnestness the cause of the changes and what would be the Consequences, & Particularly whether the Politics of the President had changed. I answered that as the facts were only Stated without any remark,—it was impossible for me to conjecture the cause, but concurred, as I observed there were no terms or indications of disgrace in the dismissals, that the cause must be found in differences of opinion in regard to some political measures: that the nomination of their successors proved that the Politics of the President were not essentially changed; and that one count—the disbanding of the Army—exhibited in a Strong light his Confidence that there was a Prospect of the UStates being at Peace with all the world and that her differences with France—as well as with Great Britain were near an end: and also that these changes, served to ensure the Re-Election of the President. It is not more strange than true that there are People among Englishmen and in Office some who have an imagination that the people of the UStates will one day return to the allegiance of Great Britain, and who see with much gratification the dissention among the Chiefs of our Nation, & hear with a high Zest of the violent exertions at important Elections. I therefore considered it proper that the Govr. should receive a knowledge of these changes from me—and in such a manner as to give its Proper influence—
I expect soon to go to England where I shall close my Commercial Concerns of this place. It is impossible for me to remain here any longer to do business—for I shd. be enclined as well as my friends by their machinations I shall make myself known to Mr King—by whom I should like to be employed—or by any other of our Ministers or as a Consul in France. If you Sir—think I have been sufficiently faithful in my Office here—I know your justice too well not to have confidence that you will employ me elsewhere—in a station for which I am qualified
I am Sir with the greatest respect / Your Most Obedt Servant

Turell Tufts.


Title: To John Adams from Peter Bouiket, 10 August 1800
From: Bouiket, Peter
To: Adams, John

Sir
Newyork August 10th—1800

I have writting Several letters to Bengemin Stoddart Secretary of the navy on account of a birth in the Midshipman line: which I did not Receive any answers of my letters: I there—gave the matter over, but a few days after Captain Blakeslee a friend of mine going to Philidelphia whom I gave a letter of Recommendation which he gave to Mr Stodart; Mr Stodart being buissy told him to Call the nex day he did So and Mr Blakeslee went to Mr John Gardner Merchant of Philidelphia which he gave Mr Stodart at letter of Recommendation after Reading theLletter he told my friend that the Recommendation was quite Sufficiant John Mcray Stewart and Jones was them that I got:  no other thing he told my friend Comeing away to tell me to get in Rediness for the Ship President. I went Immediately and got my Close made and I think it verry hard if I dont get a birth—
I will take the Liberty to atsk after this a birth if you please as I would wish to Serve my Country and Do for it all that Lays in my Power
Excuse me Sir if you please for taking the Liberty to write to you. I hope Sir that my wish will be fullfilld:
I am Sir you most humble / Servent
Peter BouiketCitizen of the United States


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Dexter, 11 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Dexter, Samuel

Dear Sir
Quincy Aug 11 1800

Inclosed is a letter, recommending Lieut Moses Swett of N Hampshire, for an appointment in the artillerists & Engineers. The letter is from Major Jackson, your neigbor. Oliver Whipple Esqr of New Hampshire has recommended to me his son Sylvester Gardner Whipple for an appointment in the same corps, or in the Infantry. I believe these young gentlemen are very accomplished.
With high regard &c


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 11 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy Aug 11 1800

On Saturday I received your favor of the 26th ult. The German letter, proposing to introduce into this country, a company of schoolmasters, painters, poets &c all of them disciples of Mr. Thomas Paine, will require no answer. I had rather countenance the introduction of Ariel & Caliban, with a troop of Spirits the most mischievous from Fairy land—The direction, to deliver the Sandwich to the Spanish Minister, on the requisition of the King of Spain, as the case is stated, no doubt accurately, in your letter, I believe was right, & it was better to do it promptly, than wait for my particular orders in a case so plain. Respecting Bowles, I wrote you on the 31st of July, that I thought General Wilkenson & Mr. Hawkins should be written to. I now add that I think the Governors of Georgia, Tennessee & the Mississippi territory, should be written to, to employ all the means in their power, to preserve the good faith of the United States, according to the fifth article of the treaty with Spain. How far it will be proper to order Gen Wilkenson to cooperate with the Spanish government or military forces, it will be proper for the heads of departments to consider. I can see no objection against ordering them to join in an expedition against Bowles, where ever he may be, in concert with the Spanish forces at their request. The only danger would arise, from misunderstandings & disagreements, between the officers or men. In my letter of 31 ult. I also requested you to give a civil answer to the Chevalier, assuring him of our sincere friendship for the Spanish government & nation & of our resolution to fullfill the treaty with good faith. This letter I hope you received—On the 1st of Aug. I wrote you on the subject of a sum in gross to be paid, instead of going through all the chicanery, which may be practicable under the treaty. I most perfectly agree with you, & the Heads of department that the proposition merits serious attention. My only objection to it is, one, that cannot be seriously mentioned. I am afraid that as soon as this point of dispute is removed, such is their habitual delight in wrangling with us, that they will invent some other. Some pretext or other for venting their spleen & ill humor against us, they will always find. This however cannot be gravely urged as a reason against setling this quarrel. I am willing you should write to Mr King instructions on this head Take the opinion however of the heads of department on the letter, before you send it. If they are unanimous with you for going as far as a million in the latitude to be given to Mr. King in the negociation, I will agree to it
With the utmost esteem


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 11 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy August 11. 1800

Mr Frederick Butler of Weathersfield in Connecticutt requests a Patent for the Invention of a Tin Cook Stove the description of which is inclosed. He incloses the money necessary by Law. I pray your particular Attention to carry this Business through the offices and to send him a Patent.
With great regard

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 11 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Quincy Aug 11th 1800

Inclosed is a letter from John Davis Esqr, District Attorney at Boston, recommending Charles Angier to be a midshipman, & a letter from Charles Angier himself, requesting an appointment. I desire you would send him a warrant. You may inclose it to Mr Davis—
With high regard


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 11 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Dear Sir
Quincy Aug 11th 1800

I received on Saturday night your favor of Aug 1st, & thank you for your care in transmitting the commission of Inspector, as well as that of Surveyor to Mr. Smith. I have signed the pardon of Slocum Fowler & return it to you with all the other papers inclosed.
With great esteem.


Title: To John Adams from Rufus King, 11 August 1800
From: King, Rufus
To: Adams, John

Sir,
London Augt. 11. 1800

In the Paris papers of the 6th. instant is an article respecting the american negotiation, that seems to be drawn up with more care, and greater knowledge of the Subject, than is usual in a mere paragraph of the Editor’s—; and when considered in connexion with the present state of the french press, and the rumours of a like tenor, that have prevailed during the last weeks, leads to the belief that our mission has failed—I enclose the article, the authenticity of which will be ascertained in a few days—If the negotiation is broken off upon the Points, and in the manner, represented, we can be at no loss for the object, and in order to give it a greater chance of success I shall not be disappointed in hearing that french Commissaries will be sent to the U.S. as soon as our Envoys leave france. With the most perfect respect / I have the honor to be / Sir / Yr. obt. & faithful svt.

Rufus King


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 11 August 1800
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Departmt. 11 Aug 1800

Some of the officers of the Boston, have resigned, and others I understand, intend resigning. The Ship will probably be delayed for want of Officers, unless you will please to take the trouble to direct Mr Shaw, to fill up the Commissions & Warrants which I have the honor to enclose, or as many of them as may be necessary, with the names of Gentlemen ready for immediate Service, to fill the several vacancies.
Capt Little will wait upon you with a list of the vacancies—and I have also desired him to lay before you a list of names of such persons, as he thinks best qualified to fill them. If He has any Midshipmen, qualified to be Lieutenants, perhaps it would be better to make the Lts. wanting, out of them, than to take them from Gentlemen who have not yet been in the Service. I think there has not occurred a single instance of the resignation of a Lieutenant, who had first been a Midshipmen. The Able Seamen, & old masters of Vessels, who go as Lieutenants, merely for want of better employment at the time, resign as soon as better employment offers.
I have the honor to be / with the highest respect & esteem / Sir Yr. Most Obed. Servt.,

Ben Stoddert.


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 12 August 1800
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Quincy Aug 12th 1800

I return inclosed the duplicate answers to the letter of the prince regent of Portugal signed.