Title: To John Adams from George Cabot, 29 September 1798
From: Cabot, George
To: Adams, John

Private
Dear Sir
Brookline Sept. 29.1798

A sincere desire to prevent a possible embarrassment to the administration of our government, & to see preserved entire that influence by which alone the honor & independence of our nation can be maintained, has induced me to trouble you with my thoughts at this time.
When the appointments of Major Generals were first known it was readily perceived that the order in which they were made naturally determined their rank, & it was seen with infinite satisfaction, by the most zealous friends of our Country, that the actual arrangement was in the highest degree propitious to the security and welfare of the United States.
Among the many respectable persons whose opinions were early disclosed to me there was not one who did not applaud the Executive for having happily united in the military service the greatest weight of character with the greatest powers of genius & talents in a manner perfectly adapted to the present exigency and to future contingencies; but this excellent disposition so much approved by one sort of men cou’d not please men of another sort who eagerly seized an opportunity to disturb it by suggesting that Genl. Knox wou’d be disgraced if he served in a station subordinate to Coll. Hamilton—few men are strong enough to resist an attack of this kind if they possess a common portion of vanity or ambition, & yet I believe that Genl. Knox’s own consciousness of the vast superiority of his Rival co-operating with a natural good temper wou’d have produced his final acquiescence if he had been left wholly to himself; but he was not—On the contrary he was stimulated to declare his discontents, which he did pretty soon in whispers among his friends—Even here he might have stopped if he had been countenanced only by those who reprobate all the measures of the Executive, but he soon saw himself supported by Genl. Lincoln in a manner more decisive than is usual for him of late years to support any political opinions.
The feelings of Genl. Knox were so natural that if they do not justify his conduct they at least explain it, but I confess my own reflections still leave me at some loss for the motives of Genl. Lincoln.—It was at first insisted on that as Genl. Knox cou’d not, consistently with his honor, serve in a Station below Coll. Hamilton it must be presumed that the appointments were not made in the order they appeared.—But the fact being ascertained it was then contended that the priority of order gave no priority of Rank in appointments made on the same day—This doctrine I believe is new both at the seat of Government & here and it wou’d seem to me if it were admitted wou’d have the absurd effect of destroying all claims to priority of Rank among Persons appointed on the same day & who had not been officers before. I do not recollect ever to have heard it denied until now that the priority in the order of appointments on the same day settled the rank as decisively as a priority of years—Such were the ideas which prevailed in the Senate at the time of the Naval appointments in 94 & such they continue, for I am informed that in the late Session the question was started, & the concurrence of the Senate with the nominations of all the Major Generals except that of Col. Hamilton wou’d have been postponed for a day to prevent doubts as to his Rank, but that the perfect conviction of his Rank being secured by a prior nomination by the President & a prior concurrence of the Senate rendered the postponement unnecessary. But it is said there is a rule which governs this case & which was established in our Revn war; there is I am told a Resolve which declares that in Elections made on the same day of Officers to the same rank the priority shall be determined by the Rank held previous to the Election—This was I believe a special provision for a particular description of persons designated by the Resolve—There is however another Resolve which is general & which provides, according to what seems reasonable without any positive rule, that in Elections on the same day the order of Rank shall follow the order of the Elections; if therefore either of these obsolete Resolves be applicable (which is at best doubtful) it wou’d seem natural to take the latter which is general & was intended for all New Officers, as all those must be consider’d who are private citizens & out of all office at the time of appointment.—I recollect there were some occasions in which pains were taken to accommodate the pretensions of Gentlemen founded on these antiquated titles, but I think they were always treated as mere matters of discretion & never admitted as rightful claims, & I am sorry to add that in my assertion the attention which has been given them in many instances has been very prejudicial to the public service.—& I do not see, if the opinions of Generals Lincoln & Knox are correct, why other Officers of the former army now employed must not be elevated above Pinckney Hamilton & Lee and thus the whole line of new appointments be deranged & broken up, an Evil which I think the country wou’d deplore as great in the extreme.—I wou’d not venture to say what is the opinion of the most enlightend men through New England concerning the character of every individual of the Major Generals, but on the comparative merits & talents of Hamilton and Knox I am well persuaded there is a remarkable uniformity of sentiment in favor of the former.—
It has been intimated to me repeatedly that Genl. Knox’s friends cherished a hope that the President wou’d listen to his demands & might be persuaded to favor them. If there is an expectation of this kind I have presumed it might be useful to be apprised of it & I indulge the belief that my motives for offering this notice will be so justly appretiated as to render an apology unnecessary.
I am Dear Sir with every sentiment / of unfeigned respect & attachment / your most obt. & faithful servant
George Cabot


Title: To John Adams from John Clark, 29 September 1798
From: Clark, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Wilkes County Sepr. 29th. 1798

I do myself the honor to transmit you here with enclosed an Address from the Officers of the Division under my Command It is much Sullied and impaired by being Carried to & fro to the different Regimental Reviews was Cheerfully signed by all the Attending Officers except one & he only a Subaltern and I think I may say with truth that all Classes of C  with us throughout the division Accord with us in these Sentiments  heard but the one dissenting voice  All my tour in reviewing the Several regiments which compose the same / from which I have just returned / I have the honor to be / very respectfully / sir your mo, Ob, Hble, St

Jno. Clark Majr. Genl. Enclosure
                                                State of Georgia. Third Division of Militia,To John Adams, President of the United States.August. 1798
Permit us, Sir, the Officers of the Third Division of Georgia Militia, at this critical situation, and threatening state of our political safety; to express our warmest approbation, of the American Executive, and unalterable resolution, to support any measure, our Government may adopt to secure our National Honor and Independence.
“The intemperate zeal and violent attachment manifested by the Americans” to the French Government after the United States had taken a nutral ground, has already, we are of opinion, produced “severe repentance.”
It was one of the principles on which that short sighted Republic, founded a belief that the people of the United States were inimical to their own government.
It has been the cause of the presumption of the French Minister, Citizen Genet, to Commission, men in the heart of the United States, in the service of the French Republic, whilst we had declared ourselves a neutral power.
It was the cause of that execrable and insulting message sent by the president of the French Directory to the American People by Mr. Monroe, when he was recalled as Minister by the United States.
It has produced a succession of insolent and tyrannical conduct of the Directory, towards the United States, ever since we refused to violate a treaty with another nation to favor their’s.
In a contest which aroused the attention of the civilized world and agitated all europe, we admit the total impossibility of neutral feelings, of wishes and of hopes,—and had we  indulged the warmest glow of pleasure, and gratification at the french success; and the deepest sigh for her misfortunes in silence; our recent conflict, and former alliance would have excused, and Justified us: but we cannot help lamenting, that we did not endeavour to restrain the Strength of our emotions in favor of that nation. Public rejoicings, and festivals in honor of French triumphs rang throughout the Continent United States:—From these circumstances it might seem, the French nation, governed by unprincipled characters, and incapable of political perception, rashly concluded the Americans devoted to them; in opposition to their own Government and Interest.
It is now time they should be otherwise convinced; and it becomes a serious apprehension with us that the uniform cruelty and oppression of the French Government towards all nations that come within their power.—Her invasion on the innocent and harmless Swiss,—Her disregard of the Laws of nations; their barefaced attempts to influence American politics; their disregard of treaties; their depredations upon our defenceless commerce;—“their treatment of our Ministers of peace, and demands amounting to contribution;” and their thirst for conquest and dominion, and other circumstances happening in succession, has produced such a rapid alienation of the affections of the American people, that an opposite passion will in a short time succeed in every American breast, in an opposite equal extreme.
Whilst In viewing the acceptance of General Washington to the Command of the Army of the United States, we feel the most poignant emotions of pleasure and regret. Whilst we should feel the highest honor, gratification, and safety, even in the midst of danger, under his immediate command; we cannot help lamenting, with the Keenest sensibility, the anticipated necessity of his “leaving at this late period of life his peaceful abode.”
Suffer us to express our warmest thanks for the candor with which you have given your opinion, in your answer to the address of the young men in the city of Augusta, on the subject of the French Revolution.
Accept, Sir, our most Ardent wishes for your personal health and prosperity; and may you long live to enjoy the restoration of your Country’s lost tranquility.
And believe us to be, / with sentiments of the highest / respect, Your Mo Obt Servts.

Jno. Clark Majr. Genl.3rd. DivisionD. Meriwether B. Gnl. 1st. B. 3. DivisionW Stith junrJohn Carter WaltonAide Camps to Mjr Gl. ClarkeJn. Hamill Adjt. Warren Regt.William McClure Adjtnt.James Towler Ajt.George Christian adjt.M, Williamson Adjt210 other signatures


Title: To John Adams from James Sullivan, 29 September 1798
From: Sullivan, James
To: Adams, John

Sir
Boston 29th Septr1798

I am very sensible that this is out of proper mode of communication to the President of the United States; but there are certain considerations which I hope will form an apology for the intrusion
I have the honor to be / with the most perfect / respect your humble / Servant

Ja Sullivan


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 30 September 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy September 30th. 1798

Inclosed are the Commissions for the three Generals Signed and all dated on the Same Day. I am sir / your most obedient &c

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 30 September 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Dear Sir
Quincy Sept 30th. 1798

Inclosed are the full powers to borrow five million and two million signed according to your report made to me and dated the 20th. of September. The duplicates I shall send by another opportunity if those should not arrive to you. This is I suppose as you intended
I am &c

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 30 September 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Dear sir
Quincy Sept. 30. 1798

I thank you for your Attention to my request and for the trouble you have taken in writing the Letter &c
I hope the Post Office will not be robbed by any of the Societies of Illuminati, German Union, United Irishmen &c who are Said to be so inquisitive in Post offices in America as well as Europe.

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Seth Harding, 30 September 1798
From: Harding, Seth
To: Adams, John

Sir
New York 30th. Sepr. 1798

On the 27th. Instant, I had the Honnor to Receive your kind frendley Letter with a Number of Certificates which I Enclosed to your Excelencey Sumtime past the Reason your Letter did not Com to hand before I suppose was on acct. of the Sickness in this City. Sir I am Exceading happy to hear youre Excelency so fulley Sattisfied, in Regard to the Unfaverable Charge Lodged against me—Sir I sincerely thank your Excelency for the Honor you have Confured on me In writeing me a Line on the subject—Sir you will Please to Command me at any time by Night or day on any Expedishon—whatever you In your wisdom may think propper—and may you long Live to Be a Scurge to your Enemies, and a Blessing to your Cuntry—and hearafter—Be Blest in that world which will open New Sources of Entilligence to your Inquiering mind.
I am Sir with the Hiest / Esteem your most obedient / and most Humble Servant

Seth Harding


Title: To John Adams from Anonymous, 30 September 1798
From: Anonymous
To: Adams, John

Sir—
New Hampshire Septb. 30th 1798

From a desire of seeing every department of the federal Govt filled by respectable characters I am induced to make an observation or two on the pretensions of the persons who I have heard are candidates for the naval office of this port, vacant by the recent death of the late excellent Mr Russell—Mr. Nath. Folsom, & Capt Geo Turner, I have heard are desirous of obtaining it— From enquiry Sir you will find there can be no objection to Mr Folsom either on the score of abilities—attachment to Government connections character or any other requisite—He was bred a merchant, and is an eminent accountant, has been uniformly a distinguished friend to Govt. & order, is a native of the state & connected with the first families— being brother in law to our Governor Gilman—& son to the late Genl Folsom—& universally esteemed for probity & Talents—Capt T. tho’ an acquaintance of the writer of this, who is not disposed to discharge him, certainly cannot boast of such qualifications. Being in the first place, a native of Ireland, & a warm stickler for his countrymen, without other education than is acquired by an apprentiship at Sea—without connections, and I may say without a single advocate for the propriety of his filling this office—except one, who can be induced by no other consideration, than the interest he has in puting Capt T. in a way of getting money—The appointment of Mr Folsom wd afford universal satisfaction—& as far such appointments can do it, contribute to the support of Govrmt.
It is hoped the president will excuse this anonymous information, as the writer can have no interest, but that of seeing the offices of Govt filled by respectable characters


Title: To John Adams from Isabella McIntire, September 1798
From: McIntire, Isabella
To: Adams, John

South 5 Street No 72 ca. September 1798

No circumstance is more shocking than that of being obliged to a stranger for relief; and however conscious I may be of my own innocence and well meaning, the presumption of addressing your Excellence in this manner may be a sufficient reason to prevent my receiving such a share of credit, as were I known to you, I might with justice pretend to. I have had the misfortune to receive an Education greatly above the rank that Heaven has allotted me, and I now have to struggle through more difficulties, than you Sir would chuse to be acquainted with; and it would but ill become me to shock the gentleman to whome I wish to be obliged. Chance has directed me to your Excellence; my character and story you shall be acquainted with the first will be no discredit to me, and the latter, perhaps may ruse a compassion in you Sir that may be servicable to me, the persuasion I have of your goodness and humanity has tempted me to apply to for a little assistance a few Dollars will be a relief to a truely distressed Female who has the / Honor of being with Respect

Isabella McIntire


Title: From John Adams to Nc., Citizens of Newbern, September 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Newbern, Nc., Citizens of

To The Inhabitants Of The Town Of Newbern, North

Carolina.
					Gentlemen,
					September 1798

An address so cordial and respectful as this from the citizens of Newbern, and your warm approbation of my conduct since I have filled the office of chief magistrate of the United States, I ought to hold in the highest estimation.

I was indeed called to it at a crisis fraught with difficulty and danger, when neither skill in the management of affairs, more improved than any I could pretend to, nor the purest integrity of intention, could secure an entire exemption from involuntary error, much less from censure.

There have been for many years strong indications that nothing would satisfy the rulers of the French, but our taking with them an active part in the war against all their enemies, and exhausting the last resources of our property to support them, not only in the pursuit of their chimerical ideas of liberty, but of universal empire. This we were not only under no obligation to do, but had reason to believe would have ruined the laws, constitution, and the morals of our country, as well as our credit and property.

An ardent enthusiasm, indeed, deluded for a long time too many of our worthy citizens. The honor of your testimony to the integrity of my endeavors in so difficult a conjuncture, is very precious to my heart.

As the hostile views and nefarious designs of the French republic are now too notorious to be denied or extenuated, I believe with you, that the love of our common country will produce a cordial unanimity of sentiment.

This patriotic and spirited address is a clear indication of such desirable union, and will have a powerful tendency to encourage, strengthen, and promote it.

					John Adams.


Title: From John Adams to Daniel Jackson, 1 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Jackson, Daniel

Sir
Quincy October 1st 1798

Whenever you shall receive by the orders of the Gov. of this State the possession and command of castle Island you will observe the signals and salutes which have been heretofore used under the government of the State untill you shall receive instructions from the Secretary at War.
I am Sir your most obedient

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 1 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Quincy Sept Oct 1st 1798

I have received your favors of the 20 21st & 24 of Sept. I am sorry that Capt. Barry has not fully answered your expectations—but I hope you will soon send him out again. The hurricanes are now passed and there is no longer danger from them. We must sweep the West India seas and get as many of the French seamen as they are called whether they are Italians, Spaniards, Germans or negroes as we can. Seamen are so scarce that they cannot send out large privateers.
I thank you for your humane and wise directions to the navy agent at Norfolk. The captives ought to have able and honorable council and I rely upon the impartial justice of our tribunals for their honorable acquittal if the law and the faith require it. The suppression of ships papers is a suspicious fact. If they have cruised and plundered Americans, there cannot be much hesitation. I cannot conceive there can be any difficulty in procuring evidence to show clearly the guilt or innocence of the ship.
I am Sir your most obedient

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 1 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

John Adams, President of the United States of America, To Oliver Wolcott, Secretary of the Treasury.Quincy 1 Oct. 1798

By virtue of the Act entituled “An Act to enable the President of the United States to borrow money for the public service”, passed on the Sixteenth day of July in the year One thousand seven hundred and Ninety Eight.
I do hereby authorize and empower you, by yourself or any other person or persons to borrow on behalf of the United States, of the Bank of the United States, or any other body or bodies politic, person or persons, any sum not exceeding in the whole, five millions of dollars, and to make or cause to be made for that purpose, such contract or contracts, as shall be necessary and for the interest of the said States.
And for So doing this shall be your Warrant.
Given under my hand at Quincy this / first day of October in the year of our Lord / One thousand seven hundred and Ninety Eight.
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 1 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

John Adams, President of the United States of America.To Oliver Wolcott, Secretary of the Treasury.Quincy 1 Oct. 1798

By virtue of the Act entituled “An Act making certain appropriations; and to authorize the President to obtain a loan on the credit of the direct tax.” passed on the sixteenth day of July in the year One thousand seven hundred and Ninety Eight.
I do hereby authorize and empower you by yourself, or any other person or persons to borrow on behalf of the United States of the Bank of the United States, or any other body or bodies politic, person or persons, any sum not exceeding in the whole, two Millions of dollars, and to make or cause to be made for that purpose, such Contract or Contracts, as shall be necessary and for the interest of the said States, pursuant to the Act aforesaid.—
And for so doing this shall be your Warrant.
Given under my hand at Quincy this / first day of October in the year of our Lord / One thousand seven hundred and Ninety Eight.
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 1 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Sir
Quincy Oct. 1. 1798

Inclosed are Letters relative to the Appointment to the Naval office at Portsmouth.
Oliver Whipple is the only One that has been presented whose Pretentions deserve much Attention in competition with Mr Edward St. Loe Livermore: But upon the whole I think Mr Livermore ought to be appointed. He is able, popular, honourable and I believe will give general satisfaction. If you think so, he may be appointed. If you think any other more meritorious please to mention him to your humble / sert

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 1 October 1798
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Sir
Treasury Department
 Trenton October 1st. 1798.

I have the honour to submit to your consideration two letters from Edward Carrington Esquire, dated September 20th & 22d.—a letter from D. Stephenson Esquire dated September 6th.—a letter from John Haymond Esquire, dated September 4th:—also a letter from Thomas Tinsley Esquire—dated September 22d. 1798.
The opinions of Colo: Carrington, Supervisor, and Thomas Tinsley Esquire, the Commissioner first named, concur in favour of Alexander Nelson Esquire, to be Commissioner for the first division, vice D. Stephenson Esquire who has declined—and in favour of Maxwell Armstrong Esquire to be Commissioner for the second division, vice John Haymond who has declined.—
I take the liberty to submit these papers, with two blank Commissions to the consideration of the President.
I have taken measures to ascertain the relative pretensions of the Candidates for the Naval Office at Portsmouth.—
I have the honour to be / with perfect respect / Sir, / Your Obedient Servant.
Oliv Wolcott


Title: To John Adams from James Wilson, 2 October 1798
From: Wilson, James
To: Adams, John

Oct. 2, 1798

The Officers of the second Lincoln regiment of Militia in the State of North Carolina, in Court Martial met at Lincolnton on the 2d. of October 1798. Resolve that Colo. James Wilson be requested to prepare and send forward an address to the President of the United States expressive of our approbation of the measures adopted by the Executive respecting our differences with the French Republic. Our approbation of the measures of Congress for our commercial & national defence, our full confidence in the constituted authorities of the federal government, and our determination to support the Constitution, our national rights—our independance.
His Excellency John Adams President of the United States.
Sir, We conceive it a duty we owe to our chief magistrate, our Country & ourselves at this eventful crisis, to let our sentiments be publickly known—When foreign intrigue and domestic faction has conspired to send abroad the angel of sedition, on this once happy scene which we now inhabit; openly & daringly attempting to seduce the citizens suggesting and endevouring to manifest to the World, the false idea, that the government & people of the United States have separate views and persue different interests, deeply degrading to the American character. But we are happy in the belief that among the great mass of enlightened Americans the number is few and contemptible which have or will become the votaries of French diplomatic duplicity or the inducers to internal faction.—
We are not ignorant, nor cannot look with an inattentive eye at the insidious conduct of the executive directory of the French Republic, in diviating from the invariable principles of national faith & Justice. The conduct of that nation a long time past has manifasted to the World that her policy and persuit is universal domination of the powers of Europe, of the smaller governments, several have already falen a sacrafice to her userpation & power, and all have been drawn into the vortex of her ambition—The government of the United States of America though situate far distant from the immediate scene of her convulsions, was nevertheless, apparently intended to be the next numbred among the victims of her despotism. The idea is strengthened by recollecting the unprovoked depredations, committed on the commerce of our citizens; the imperious & insulting conduct of the French Directory to our Ministers of reconciliation, in which they wantonly added insult to injury, which ought to inspire every American with a becomeing resentment & a just indignation.
Though our government may be partially assailed by ambition & misguided policy, yet we behold with exultation, the wisdom Patriotism, firmness & dignity, displayed by the chief Magistrate in guarding every avenue through which his country is most susceptable of injury, either by lawless power or false policy.
After considering with attention such information as we have had in our power to obtain, we unanimously express and declare our entire approbation of the measures, adopted by the executive respecting our differences with the French Republic, measures which we presume cannot fail to meet the approbation of impartial Scrutiny.—We also express & declare our entire approbation of the measures persued by Congress for our national & commercial defence, when pacific overtures and wholly exhausted, a preperation to repel force by force is laudable and just and the only honorable alternative.—
We further cordially declare a full confidence in the constituted authorities of the federal government. Though our situation is far from the seat of general legislation and among the last to be informed of governmental measures yet we shall endeavour to prove that we shall be among the formost for zeal & loyalty; we pledge ourselves, when legally called upon not only to devote our lives & arms but also a proportional part of our property, to defend the constitution, our national rights, our Independance.—
Be pleased to accept our congratulations on the appointment to, & the acceptance of the command of the armies of the United States, by the Illustrious George Washington, whose name combined with his glorious atcheivments the veteran companions of his arduous toil can witness, a rehearsal of which inspires the young warrior with Martial ardor.—
May your virtuous life & your health be long continued, that in the evening of age you may with composure and the approbation of the surrounding World look back on a life spent usefully, & when it shall please the Almighty to drop the curtain of everlasting seperation between you & the sublunary stage of action, may you enjoy eternal Felicity.—
Resolved, That Colo. James Wilson sign the foregoing address in behalf of the Courtmartial & that Genl. Joseph Dickson be requested to transmit the same to the President of the United States

Jas Wilson


Title: To John Adams from William Falkener, 2 October 1798
From: Falkener, William
To: Adams, John

Sir!
Warrenton Octor: 2nd. 1798

Having been requested to forward the Address of the Volunteer Horse Association of the County of Warren (State of No Carolina) and suspecting before it could reach Philadelphia you might probably depart that City, I enclosed it under Cover to Col. Jos. Habersham, Post-Master General, who did me the Favour to acknowledge the Receipt thereof, and also assur’d me it should be immediately forwarded to Quincey.
The Gentlemen who compose that Corps are daily enquiring if any Answer has been vouchsafed thereto, my Reply of Course has been, none is come to Hand.—Will you do me the Honour of noticing this, and say if the Address has been received?—
With due Deference, / and Consideration, / I am, / Sir, / Your obedt. Servant,
Wm. Falkener.


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 2 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 2d 1798

I have received your favor of Sept. 27 & with pleasure agree to your plan of a visit to your family, whom I hope you will find in perfect health and remove to Philadelphia, when that city shall be healthy. I am assured glad that Mr Pickering can find time to do the business in your absence.
The plan of naval opperations which you have suggested is quite agreeable to me. We must not suffer our ships to linger in port.
Inclosed in a letter from C J Ellsworth recommending Richard Law Jun. to the command of the national ship building in Connecticut river which deserves great respect

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Partridge, 3 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Partridge, Samuel

To the Grand Jurors of the County of Hampshire
Gentlemen
Quincy Oct. 3. 1798

I have received, with much pleasure your Address of the 28 of September from Northampton.
The Manifestation of your Respect, Approbation, and Confidence are very flattering to me, and your determination to support the Constitution and Laws of your Country is honourable to yourselves. If a new order of Things has commenced, it behooves us to be cautious that it may not be for the worse. If the Abuses of Christianity can be annihilated or diminished and a more equitable Enjoyment of the Rights of Conscience introduced it may will be well: But this will not be accomplished by the Abolition of Christianity and the Introduction of the Grecian Mythology or the worship of modern Heroes or Heroines: by erecting Statues Altars and Temples of Idolatry to Reason or Virtue to Beauty or to Taste. It is a serious problem to resolve, whether all the Abuses of Christianity, even in the darkest Ages, when the Pope deposed Princes and laid Nations under his Interdicts, ever were were ever so bloody and cruel; ever bore down the Independence or taught doctrines which required such implicit Credulity to believe of the human Mind, with such terror and Intollerance, as the present Reign of Philosophy pretended Philosophy in Europe.
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 3 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Dear Sir
Quincy October 3. 1798

Inclosed is a Duplicate of a Letter from Miranda with some Estimates. Read it and think of it.
A number of questions and considerations over. We are Friends with Spain. If We were Ennemies, would the Project be usefull to us.—It will not be in  for me to answer the Letter. Will any Notice of it, in any manner be proper. I shall send it by Mr. Humphreys, with Mr. Gerrys Papers.
I am &c.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 3 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Dear Sir
Quincy Sept Oct 3d. 1798

I return you Mr. Millers report of September 23d relative to a light house near the entrance of George Town harbour in the state of South Carolina approved. I have
The honor to be Sir your humble / servant

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 3 October 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Trenton Octr. 3. 1798

I inclose the duplicate of my letter of the 24th ulto. To John Q. Adams Esqr. our minister at Berlin, which, if approved, you will be pleased to seal and forward in some vessel from Boston bound to England or Hamburg: if to England, permit me to suggest the expediency of putting it under cover to Mr. King. The original will go this week from New York in the British packet. If you wish any sentiment corrected, you will have the goodness to do it in a letter from yourself; and upon receiving your directions, I will make the like corrections in the triplicate and quadruplicate. The inclosed press copy of the 5th page explains the part in cypher, as encompassed with pencil marks.
Last evening I received two letters for you from Mr. Murray, and to-day a third, all which I have the honor to inclose. I also inclose three interesting letters received this morning from Mr. King. They were committed to the care of Mr. Henry M. Rutledge (who has been General Pinckney’s secretary in France) from whom I received a letter dated yesterday at New-York, where he had just arrived in the ship Factor Capt. Kemp. Mr. Gerry had arrived in the Sophia from Havre, at Portsmouth, England, on the 9th of August, and was to sail in a day or two after the Factor, for the United States. The circumstances relative to his trip from Havre to Portsmouth are detailed in Mr. Rutledge’s letter of which I inclose an extract.
General Pinckney was at Bordeaux, waiting for a passage, in which he was embarrassed, on account of the embargo on all American vessels; but he hoped to get off in the Flag of Truce in which Volney, Dupont the Consul, and a cargo of French people went from America to Bourdeaux, and which it was expected would form an exception to the order of a general embargo. Nothing new when Mr. Rutledge left England. The latest accounts from the Mediterranean traced Admiral Nelson no farther than Malta, where he was said to have arrived six days after Buonaparte had left the place with his fleet.
I have the honor to be / with great respect, / Sir your most obt. servant
Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 3 October 1798
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Treasury Department Trenton October 3d. 1798

I have the honour to enclose a letter—dated September 24th. from John Nivison Esquire a respectable Gentleman of Norfolk—and another of the same date from Colo. J. Parker, informing me of the death of Thomas Bourne Collector of the Customs for the District of South Quay, and Inspector of the same port in Virginia.—
I know nothing of Mr. Dorton who is recommended by Colo. Parker. Mr. Nivison’s recommendation of Archibald Richardson may I beleive be relied on, and Colo. Parker agrees that he is a fit Character, if he will discharge the Office in person.—
If the President pleases, the Commissions can be made out here by the Secretary of State, and if Mr. Richardson is appointed, I will inform him that he must remove to South Quay, and discharge the Office in person.—
I have the honour, to be / with great respect / Sir, / Your Obedt. Servt.

Oliv Wolcott.


Title: To John Adams from Daniel Jackson, 4 October 1798
From: Jackson, Daniel
To: Adams, John

Sir
Castle Island October 4th 1798

On the second day of October Instant, I took possession of this Place, agreeably to the Orders, which I had heretofore received. And with as little ceremony, considering where the importance of the Fortress, as could be obscured on such occasion, owing principally as I conceive to the former Commander—The Governor of the Commonwealth, together with Genl. Davis expressed a wish to the late Commander, that this Fortress might be delivered up, with the ceremonies usually observed on such occasions. From Genl. Davis, and the other Officers, I have received every assistance that was in their power. I find the Garrison in a poor state of defence. I shall as soon as possible transmit to the Secretary of War, an Inventory of the Ordnance, Ammunition, Implements &c &c, together with with a return of the Magazine, Barracks, and other buildings on the Island delivered to the United States. I have now about forty or fifty Soldiers under the Command of Capt. Gates and Lieut. Duncan. I wish if it should not be inconsistant with the arrangements made by the Secretary of War, that Lieut Leonard of Windsor in Vermont might be ordered on here Whenever Your Excellency should wish to visit this Fortress. I will order a barge to any place you shall direct—
I have the Honor to be with much / respect Your Excellency’s / Most Obedient Humble Servt.
Daniel Jackson Magor2 Regt of Artillerists & Enginrs.


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 4 October 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

(private)Sir,Trenton Octr. 4. 1798.

As the information contained in the inclosed letter from Theodore Foster esqr. may possibly become a subject of public speculation, I think it proper to lay it before you. My information of Gerbier’s enquiry of the Christian name of Mr. Foster comes from our consul at the Cape, who knew not the object of the enquiry. Mr. Foster’s letter explains it. I also have the honour to inclose a copy of my answer to Mr. Foster.
I have for some time thought that General Collot and some other foreigners ought to be ordered to depart from the U. States: I will prepare the form of an order and submit it to you in a day or two.
I am with great respect / Sir / your most obt. Servant
Timothy Pickering


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 5 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir
Quincy October 5. 1798

Inclosed are Recommendations of Rufus Graves and Joseph Dunham, from Mr Freeman and Letters from themselves requesting Appointments in the Army.
And some notes of Observations made to me  verbally and put down on paper at my desire, which you may consider at present and return to me when I meet you again, if ever

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Nathaniel Kezer, 5 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Kezer, Nathaniel

To the Inhabitants of Rowley in the State of MassachusettsGentlemen
Quincy October 5. 1798

I have received your Address adopted at a legal Town Meeting on the 20. of September. which is not the less Acceptable or important for the lateness of its date. The numerous Addresses of my fellow Citizens, while they have been to me a delightful source of consolation, have demonstrated to the World that our Country abounds in every Part of it, not only with Citizens of exalted Virtues, and Usefull Talents, but with Writers of elegant and masterly Accomplishments. If these Addresses were not themselves proofs of a remarkable Harmony Conformity in sentiment and Feelings throughout all the United States they would be sufficient, if well generally read and well considered, to produce all the Harmony and Unanimity which can be wanted for the Defence of our Country.
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from John Steele, 5 October 1798
From: Steele, John
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Trenton October 5th. 1798

            I beg leave to present you the enclosed address from the Guilford regiment of Militia in North Carolina. There is one circumstance respecting it which I take pleasure in mentioning; the Muster was held, and the address agreed to on the very spot of ground where the memorable battle was fought between the American and British armies commanded by General Greene, and Lord Cornwallis on the 15th. of March 1781.— From this action the three southern states derived an almost immediate deliverance, and I believe I may add that it was among the principal causes which contributed to the capture of his Lordships army at York town in the Autumn following.

            I have the honor to be Sir, / With the most profound respect & veneration / Your obedient & humble servant

            Jno. Steele


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 5 October 1798
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department / 5. October 1798

I have the honor to enclose a letter from Capt Nicholson of the 26 & 27 Septr—which I had the mortification to receive last evening. There seems to be no calculating the evils of his first false step.
His letter of the 12th. exhibitted a very strong disposition to remain in port, to secure at all events, his prize—rut the Return into port of the Vessel which he Idly supposed had been sent out with orders for him, depriving him of all pretence, he promised to proceed with all expedition to sea, after filling his water. He had watered little more than a fortnight before, at Rhode Island. His present letter will shew his proceedings since—and the consequences.
I know of nothing better to be done, in his present situation, than to order him to land instantly at Norfolk, all his infected Men—& to proceed instantly to Sea, and if symptoms of the disorder prevail on board after getting to Sea, to make for Rhode Island, and there to leave enough of his Crew on board to take care of the Vessel in harbour, & to march the rest into a high & healthy part of the Country, without communicating further with Newport, than necessary to procure supplies.
By this arrangement there will be a chance of his meeting with Frost, a fortnight earlier, than in the south—& of preserving the lives of a number of his Crew.
I have the honor to enclose the copy of my letter to him.
I think fear this gentleman will fulfill all the predictions of Boston concerning him.
I have the honor to be / with the highest Respect / & esteem sir yr most / Obed. Serv.

Ben Stoddert


Title: To John Adams from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 5 October 1798
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Treasury Department Trenton October 5th. 1798.

I have the honour to transmit a Letter from George Divers who was appointed the Commissioner for the eleventh Division declining the appointment and recommending Thomas Divers to be appointed in his stead.
From the tenor of Colo. Carrington’s Letter of the 13th. of September and the express recommendation of Thomas Posey contained in his Letter of September 28th. I have no doubt that General Thomas Posey, is worthy of full confidence.
I enclose a blank Commission;—it will be sufficient if the first Blank is filled by the President—the other blanks will be filled with the names of the Gentlemen whom the President may be pleased to appoint in consequence of my Letter of the first instant.
I have the honour to be / with perfect deference / Sir / Your Obedient Servant

Oliv. Wolcott


Title: To John Adams from Giles Leonard Barrett, 6 October 1798
From: Barrett, Giles Leonard
To: Adams, John

May it please Your Excellency
Boston October 6th 1798

Your known humanity, and my extreme Necessity will I trust, in some degree plead my Apology for the Intrusion of this Solicitation. Flatter’d as I once was with prosperity—and now sunk (together with a deserving wife and family) by a complicated series of Inevitable calamity, to extreme distress, where can I hope to fell the fostering hand of Protection, if not from. The President of the United States.
I shall presume to trespass on your Valuable time, by a short outline of my unhappy situation—About two Years since, I was induced to emigrate from England (where for many Years I had held comfortable and Lucrative situations) to this Town, by the most flattering offers of Advantage—Offers, which, from the total failure of those concern’d, never were reallized After having struggled thro various distresses—I was Appointed Manager of the Federal Theatre, Boston, where After having sunk the scanty remnant of property Left me, by prior Misfortune, in the Additional decorations of the Building—I was once more reduced from comfort and competence to poverty in the extreme, by the Conflagration which destroy’d the edifice, and with it—my All—I have since endeavour’d to support my family by the exertion of my talents in the Science of defence Which, tho’ I have received considerable encouragement, has prov’d very inadequate to our Wants—. Permit me Sir, to remind that, I once had the Honor of performing before you, and tho the Actor may have pass’d unnoticed, yet having Represented a Character still dear to Your Remembrance “Genl. Warren in Bunkers Hill—I am induced to hope, my humble exertions may still Live in Your Memory
During the short time—I was in the Management of the Federal Theatre—my conduct I trust met the Approbation of the TrusteesI c—an with confidence refer to them for my Character—
At Last as a “forlorn hope—my Wife engaged to play in Boston seven weeks—her sole prospect of emolument, a Benefit the time at present fix’d being at some distance—a week after the Opening of the Theatre—which cannot take place untill the full re’establishment of the Health of the Town—May I beg Leave to intreat your Patronage—on behalf of an Unfortunate, and, I trust deserving woman; Without your protection, she can have no prospect of relief from her present distresses—with it she cannot doubt of success,—I shall not presume to Offer any thing by way of stimulus.—for, to the Good and Great,—the power of dispensing happiness.—to those on whom Misery has laid his Iron hand, affords the highest Gratification
I have the Honor to transmit you, a few Lines from—Harrison G. Otis Esqr, which, but for the Late prevailing calamity shou’d have been presented Long since; but be assur’d Sir, whatever may be the fate of my petition—my veneration for your character can never suffer the smallest Abatement, and in case of failure I shall only Lament, that I cou’d not present Objects more worthy Your Notice.
I have the Honor to be, with the Most profound respect / Your Excellencys / Faithfull Citizen, & devoted Humble Servant

G:L: Barrett—Late Manager of the Theatres Norwich & Exeter Englandand Federal Theatre, Boston


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 6 October 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State Trenton Oct. 6. 1798.

This morning I received a letter from the American Consul at Naples. Unfortunately it is without date: the details of facts do however show that it was very lately written: an extract is inclosed.—Last evening I received a letter from the American Consul at Gibraltar dated August 10th, by which it appears that they had no news of the two fleets under Buonaparte & Nelson later than they had derived from the French frigate la Sensible which was captured and carried in there by the English frigate the Sea-Horse: consequently the several reports from Malaga, of engagements of the two fleets must be confounded.
I received last evening a letter dated at Knoxville Sept. 15th from a very worthy and respectable Virginian, who in his tour went through several of the back counties of Virginia, and with “a very few exceptions in Montgomery & Washington counties, of persons who find themselves sinking fast in public estimation, the mass of the citizens (he says) are orderly and well disposed.” This gentleman’s acquaintance was general in the back counties. He has also passed thro’ the counties of Washington, Sullivan, Hawkins, Jefferson and Granger, in Tennessee, “and with very few exceptions indeed, the people (he says) are federal.”
On the subject of the Indian Treaty now pending, he says “much satisfaction appears amongst the citizens, from the prospect of success with the Indians.” “What of the Indians I saw here, confirm the idea.”
These pieces of intelligence seemed to be of sufficient importance to be communicated to you. The departure of the French minister from Naples, and the other information of Consul Mathieu, of the prospect of a renewed war between the Emperor and France, coincide with the tenor of Mr. King’s latest communications, in the letters I forwarded to you this week.
I have the honor to be / with great respect, / sir, your most obt. servant,
Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from William Vans Murray, 7 October 1798
From: Murray, William Vans
To: Adams, John

Private (copied)Dear Sir,
The Hague 7. Octr. 1798.

The inclosed is from Mr. Talleyrand to Mr. Pichon who left this place the 24th Sepr. for Paris. In many interviews which this gentleman sought with me, with much solicitude, I had repelled the idea that “the Assurances” declared by you Sir in your message in June, had been given in any of Mr. Talleyrand’s letters that I had seen; to this I added among many other remarks that nothing but a formal & explicit assurance of respectful reception, worthy the minister of a free Independent & powerful nation would in my opinion, as an unauthorised individual, be considered by you Sir as “the assurances” which you had spoken of—that I did not know anything of the intentions of Government in the future—but that it was an error in his government to flatter itself with the idea that you would accept assurances by implication—or any, of any sort which were blended with any kind of indication of the political complexion of envoys, or any advice or hint upon the choice—That I did not know whether if assurances were given, they would produce negociation—but that without them there would be no negociation certainly. That “the assurances” if given would not be a favour, but only an assurance that rights which had been twice refused should be enjoy’d. That an explicit declaration could never be necessary upon such a point except in cases where the right had been expressly refused. That this right, imply’d among all equal powers had been twice expressly deny’d, & that of course an explicit declaration announcing it became necessary to the dignity of the American Government & nation.
He appeared at last to fall in with these ideas and in the next interview, which was the second week in Sepr., he told me he had stated my remarks to Mr. Talleyrand—but that he did not see how this Declaration could be made, to whom, & through whom. I told him that I would communicate to you Sir any such Declaration if formally & officially made, though I was unauthorised to open my lips upon the subject, and knew that it was taking on myself great hazard, & incurring a risk of being open to the imputation of Meddling at such a crisis.
Before he went away from the Hague, it struck me I ought to guard myself by a written note on the point of being unauthorised—I therefore wrote the inclosed with the remarks respecting “the Assurances”—
Unless without the purity & disinterestedness of my motives are appreciated by you Sir, I shall consider these informal endeavours to co–operate in what I thought to be your plan & consistent with your policy as the greatest errors of my life!—I thought that some point honourable to the government over which you preside might be gained—nothing hazarded—Before Mr. Pichon went to Paris he told me that he daily expected an answer from his minister upon the points of our conversation on the 7th. & 8. inst. (September—)—viz in “the Assurances”
To night I received from the hands of the French Military Post master here the original of the enclosed under cover, from one signed by Mr. Pichon in which he says this—from the Minister Mr Talleyrand—is the one which he waited some days for here, & which crossed him in the road & was sent back to Paris, whence he sends it to me to be confidentially mentioned to you Sir. The mysteriousness of concealing these conversations & communications even from the Charge des affs. here is unaccountable to me unless it has arisen from first the peculiar origin of these conversations & communications—& secondly from their Pride—Mr. Pichon I understood from himself had these in view when he was sent here—for he told me at the Spanish Minister’s “that his being sent here, & Mr. La Forest’s being entirely given to Mr. Talleyrand, & the American dispute having been put altogether into Mr. Talleyrand’s management lately were among the proofs of the intentions of his Government to settle amicably. He speaks english well—I speak French badly & am thus not qualify’d for long & rapid conversations on important subjects in that language!—He has more talents & knowledge particularly on American affairs than the present Chargè—who speaks a little english & who has the character of an enragè—Secondly, their pride is concerned in concealment, unless these indirect measures should procure what they aim at, a new negociation—On the last idea I have urged that the Declaration must be as public as the two former refusals—and as solemn as your message—
The inclosed then Sir is sent to You, such as it is!—It is not the Declaration—it is from the Minister of Exterior Relations of France to the Secretary of French Legation—Such as it is I feel it my duty to enclose it with this exposition to you in a private letter—taken with other things it may perhaps throw some light—It can not throw any shade I hope over the present lustre of the public mind warm, & burning as it does, with a holy flame. If it be at all useful I shall rejoice—it does not strike me on mature reflexion as being in any event either in war or in negociation, capable of doing mischief—because Sir to you only & to Colonel Pickering in private letters have I stated these things—in America;—& to Mr. Adams at Berlin pretty fully the substance of my informal proceedings—& to Mr. King a few hints in strict confidence, in Europe—I enjoy great pleasure in having received from Mr. A. a concurrence of opinions on the points which I have stated to him in this subject.
I am sensible that I run some hazard in thus communicating to you Sir such things—but I thought that you would on the whole wish to know all that I could collect—& in the manner that I have taken the liberty of privately communicating it.
I have the honour to be with the most perfect / respect & deference faithfully / Dear Sir yr. mo. ob. srt.

W. V. Murray


Title: To John Adams from William Falconer, 8 October 1798
From: Falconer, William
To: Adams, John

Sir,
8 October 1798

We have the honor to send you enclosed, the proceedings and resolutions of the Electors of Chesterfield County, in the district of Cheraws, in the State of South–Carolina: and to assure you, that neither the want of attention or affection to our Country, in its existing crisis, but, the inconvenience which might result, from the intermeddling of the people immediately, except by their proper representatives, in directing it’s public councils, and acts of government, induced them heretofore to be silent.
But the seducing delusion of french measures, and french influence, still advocated against the clearest truths makes them Judge it proper, that the united voice of America should now unequivocally declare the sentiments of her unbiassed citizens; and, the more especially, before the appointment of a new delegation to Congress.
Accept, Sir, the Assurance of our earnest Solicitation for your individual prosperity and happiness.
By order of the Committee
W Falconer. Chairman.


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 9 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 9th 1798

I return you the commissions for Maxwell Armstrong & Alexander Nelson signed according to the recommendation, inclosed in yours of the first of this month which I here enclose
I am Sir your humble servant

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 9 October 1798
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department 9th. October 1798.

Col Pickering thinking that cases might occur, to make, it necessary to shew that it was your pleasure he should execute the duties of my Office in the absence you have done me the favor & honor to permit—I have taken the liberty to enclose a paper to that effect. He does not think it necessary that I should remain here, ‘till he receives this paper.
Mr Pennock, the Navy Agent at Norfolk, writes me the 29 Septer that Nicholson & his Crew had got over their apprehensions of a contagious Fever—and would proceed to sea that Day in pursuance of his Instructions recd. at New-port, to guard the Southern Coast; which, from his unnecessary & improper detention at Norfolk, has been too long without adequate protection.
I have the honor to be / with the highest respect & esteem / sir yr most obed servt.
Ben Stoddert


Title: From John Adams to Charles Lee, 10 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Lee, Charles

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 10th 1798.

The session of congress approaches faster than I can prepare for it in the afflicted State of my family & tottering state of my frame. I request you to consider, whether congress can meet in Philadelphia with safety to their persons, & also to write me your sentiments of the particulars, which ought to be inserted in the speech. I shall be obliged by the long continued sickness of Mrs Adams & her consequent weakness to remain here to remain till the last moment, & sett out only soon enough to meet congress on the first month in December, which will make it desirable to me to receive your sentiments, as early as possible, that I may make some arrangements in season.
I have the honor to be Sir your / most obedient & humble servant.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 10 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct. 10. 1798

The Meeting of Congress approaches, and it is necessary to consider whether Phyladelphia is a safe Residence for Congress: and also the Particulars that will be proper to communicate and recommend to both Houses at the opening of the session. I ask the favour of you to resolve these Subjects in your Mind and write me the Result as soon as you can. I have the Honor / to be, sir your most obedient
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 10 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 10th 1798

The inclosed letters are perfectly received last night from you inclosed in your letter of Oct 3d are perfectly unintelligible to me in all their parts. I pray you to return them to me decyphred as early as possible & to keep their contents in your own bosom
With great esteem

J Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 10 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 10th 1798

I return you Mr. Kings letters of July 28th. August 1 & 5 inclosed in yours of Oct 3d. received yesterday: These  letters are very important & some of them should be made publick.
With great esteem &c

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 10 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 10th. 1798

It is time to turn our attention to the important question whether it will be safe for congress to meet in Philadelphia & to another what will be proper to say in the speech. I pray you to think upon these subjects & send me your sentiments as early as you conveniently can
I have the honor to be with / great esteem &c

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 10 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Dear Sir
Quincy October 10. 1798.

I return you Mr. Fosters Letter, and your answer, together with the Abby Lambins’ Letter to Mr. Foster and the Arrete inclosed. Your answer to Mr. Foster is wise and prudent.
How ready is the Spider to dart along his invisible Line, upon a fly, that he thinks he sees off his guard? In this Case however it will appear I hope and believe, that the intended Prey, our good hearted friend, has been as much upon his Guard as his insidious Enemy. I have the Honor to be /  Sir your most humble Servant.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 10 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 10th 1798

It is time to consider whether it will be prudent for congress to meet in Philadelphia & also what communications & recommendations will be necessary in the address to both houses. I request you to turn your thoughts upon these subjects & write me your opinions as early as may be
I have the honor to be &c

J Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 10 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Sir
Quincy Oct. 10. 1798

It is time to consider whether it will be prudent for Congress to meet in Phyladelphia; and also what Communications and Recommendations will be necessary in the Address to both Houses. I request you to turn your Thoughts upon these Subjects and write me your opinions as early as may be. I have the Honor to be, Sir /  your most obedient

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 10 October 1798
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department Octr. 10th. 1798.

The arrangement of the rank of Captains in the Navy, is a subject which will soon demand attention.
It will I beleive be of great consequence to the character of our Navy, that the last four of the first six captains appointed, should be retained in the service. They seem to be men who would do honor to any service.
The paper enclosed No. 1 details particularly, the circumstances connected with the pretensions of these gentlemen.
Talbot & Dale contend for the rank given them by the first appointment in 1794; and without obtaining it, I fear, neither will continue in the service; if they do obtain it, I fear Truxton a man of equal merit, will not. They served last war, Truxton  did not. In 1794, they were appointed to rank above Truxton, and have by no act of their own forfeited their Right to such rank. On the other hand, Truxton is in possession his commission, I understand, is numbered “three”. He may urge in favor of keeping possession, the act of Congress directing the building of three Frigates, & discontinuing the other three; and the act of the Executive, in making a second nomination of Talbot Dale & Sever—on the principle, no doubt, that their former Appointments ceased to exist, when the building of the Frigate destined for them, was abandoned.
It is probable an opportunity will offer in December, of getting these three men together; and some mode may be devised to give satisfaction to them all. For the mean time, I have written to Talbot & Dale, that the subject would then be taken up, and have urged them to retain their Commissions at least till that time.
The relative rank of the Captains, who have been lately appointed, seems to require more immediate consideration. Almost any Arrangement of these officers can be made now and without producing resignations; at least without producing resignations of those most desireable to be retained in the service.
It is, however, strictly right, to exercise the power of giving them—(I mean those who have been appointed since I have been in Office, beginning with Phillips) the relative rank to which their respective merits entitle them. For they have generally been appointed, not because the person appointed was to be prefered to others, at the time on the list of Candidates—the rule which governs in all other cases; but merely because a vessel was in greater forwardness at the place where he happened to reside, than at other places; and it was conceive to be proper, to make appointment only as employment could be found for the Captains appointed; and to make them from the places, furnishing the vessels, and where the crews were to be obtained.
Thus Phillips, of Baltimore, was appointed the 3d. July, because the ships at that place required the attention of a Captain, and the Merchants there knew of no person to recommend in preference. Thus too Williams, of Norfolk, was appointed the 17 July, because a Brig at Norfolk was expected to be soon in service.
The paper No. 2 exhibits the names of all the Captains with the order of their appointments, placing some of the least experienced, if not the least meritorious Captains, too high in rank; and others of greater experience, & I beleive greater merit, too low.
I therefore take the liberty to propose, to place McNeill, Murray, Tingey, Fletcher & Chapman, & in the order they are named, between Morris & Phillips.
The Arrangement of Captains would then stand: not noticing the first six—
Stephen DecaturofPennsylvaniaChristopher R. Perry"Rhode IslandRichard V. Morris"New YorkDanl. McNeill"MassachusettsAlexr. Murray"PennsylvaniaThomas Tingey"New JerseyPatrick FletcherofMassachusettsJonathan Chapman"MassachusettsIsaac Phillips"MarylandThomas Williams"VirginiaGeorge Cross"South CarolinaSamuel Barron"VirginiaMoses Tryon"ConnecticutMoses Brown"Massachusetts

Williams, under Murray’s command on the Expedition to the West Indies, had a commission older than Murrays; but having confidence in Murray, and not knowing Williams’ true character—indeed, being afraid to trust him with a command of so much importance to the honor of the Navy: I was reduced to the necessity of losing the service of Williams’ Brig of 18 guns, or giving the command to Murray, by inserting words in his Commission, to give him rank before the date of Williams’ Commission; but under the express condition, that the words so inserted, should be erased on his return from the expedition, and that he should not on that account quit the service.
Should the idea I have suggested of placing him and others higher on the List of Captains, than their present standing, be approved it can easily be done without altering the Dates, by inserting in their commissions the words “to take rank from any particular period”.
I am confident no injury to the service, can result from the proposed Arrangement; and if it be not made, it will frequently occur that the Services of a vessel must be lost, because the Commander can not be trusted with the Command of more vessels than his own, as would have been the case in the late instance of Murray and Williams, had it not been for the Expedient I ventured to adopt.
I have the honor to be / with the highest respect / and esteem, sir yr. most Obed. / servt.
Ben Stoddert


Title: From John Adams to Massachusetts Militia, 11 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Massachusetts Militia

To the Officers of the third first Brigade of the third Division of the Militia of Massachusetts
GentlemenQuincy October 11. 1798

I have received from Major General Hull and Brigadier General Walker your unanimous Address from Lexington, animated with a martial Spirit and expressed with a military Dignity, becoming your Characters and the Place memorable Plains, in which it was adopted.
While our Country remains untainted with the Principles and manners, which are now producing desolation in so many Parts of the World: while she continues Sincere and incapable of insidious and impious Policy: We shall have the Strongest Reason to rejoice in the local destination assigned Us by Providence. But should the People of America, once become capable of that deep  simulation towards one another and towards foreign nations, which assumes the Language of Justice and moderation while it is practicing Iniquity and Extravagance; and displays in the most captivating manner the charming Pictures of Candour frankness & sincerity while it is rioting in rapine and Insolence: this Country will be the most miserable Habitation in the World. Because We have no Government armed with Power capable of contending with human Passions unbridled by  morality and Religion. Avarice, Ambition and Revenge or Galantry, would break the strongest Cords of our Constitution as a Whale goes through a Net. Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious People. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other
An Address so unanimous and firm from the officers commanding two thousand Eight hundred Men, consisting of such substantial Citizens as are able and willing at their own Expence, compleatly to arm, And cloath themselves in handsome Uniforms does honor to that Division of the Militia which has done so much honor to their Country. Oaths, in this Country, are as yet universally considered as Sacred Obligations. That which you have taken and so solemnly repeated on that venerable Spot is an ample Pledge of your sincerity, and devotion to your Country and its Government.

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 11 October 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State Trenton Oct. 11. 1798.

Yesterday morning Mr. C. Humphreys handed me your letters and the dispatches of Mr. Gerry & others.
I have now the honor to inclose some copies of our order for requiring the departure of aliens, pursuant to the act of Congress passed the 25th of June last. If the form of the Order meets your approbation, I respectfully submit to your consideration whether during your absence from the seat of government it may not be expedient to authorise the Heads of Departments to confer and decide on such alien cases as shall appear to require dispatch. Should you think the law admits of this delegation of authority, and it should at the same time appear to you expedient, you will be pleased to sign and return the blank orders now inclosed.
I have the honor to be / with great respect, / Sir your most obt. Servant

Timothy Pickering.


Title: From John Adams to Ashbel Baldwin, 12 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Baldwin, Ashbel

Sir
Quincy Oct 12th 1798

I received last night your favor of the thirtieth and am sorry that it is not in my power at present to comply with your request. The address from the protestant Episcopal church in Connecticut which I received and answered with much pleasure I left with the rough draught of the answer in Philadelphia. My papers have been since removed from my house to a place supposed to be of greater safety. In what situation I shall find them on my return, is uncertain. But If I can find those which you with for I will send copies of them to you with pleasure.
I am Sir your most obedient and / humble servant

J Adams


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 12 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir
Quincy October 12 1798

The inclosed Resolutions and Address of the Officers of the Greens Troop of Horse &c Letter from Governor Sevier and the Letter from Allen Gillespie and Alexander Nelson I pray you answer with all the respect and Civility that is due to them: and to Accept of the offered service of the volunteer Corps, according to the Rules, by which you have answered all other Offers of a like kind. I am / sir with great Regard your huml sert

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from John Steele, 12 October 1798
From: Steele, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Trenton October 12th. 1798

The enclosed address came to my hand yesterday and I avail myself of the oppty of forwarding it by the first post after its arrival. The county of Chowan includes the Town of Edenton near the sea coast of North Carolina, a part of the country which has lately elected Judge Stone a very sensible & worthy man to succeed Demsey Burges. Viewing their late election in connection with this address it would seem that they have changed in word and in deed.

I have the honor to be Sir, / With the most profound respect & veneration / Your Obedient & Most hume. servant

            Jno. Steele


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 13 October 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State Trenton Oct. 13. 1798.

Last evening I received letters from Bourdeaux, by which it appears that General Pinckney embarked with his family, about the middle of August, for New–York. The letters came in the ship Franklin, arrived in the river Delaware. I inclose copies of these letters, being Mr. Shipwith’s to Mr. Fenwick, mentioning that on the 21st of August he had received an official copy of an Arret of the Directory, taking off the embargo on American vessels; & Mr. Fenwicks of Augt. 28th covering the former. A private letter to me from a Mr. Theodore Peters, a Dutch merchant at Bordeaux of reputation, dated Augt. 27th says “The news brought by the liberty has made no great sensation.” The inclosed copy of a letter dated at Bordeaux Augt. 27 from Mr. Hory gives the information concerning General Pinckney’s departure. A Paris newspaper of the 24th of August, sent by Mr. Hory for Genl. Pinckney, contains Philadelphia news of the 24th of July. An extract of those articles is inclosed; to which is added (from the same paper) a paragraph shewing that the Wife of Mr. La Fayette was in Paris, looking after her estates, impaired while she was confined in the “Austrian Dungeon.” This perhaps is to prepare the way for the return of her husband.
I have recd. letters from Mr. Adams at Berlin dated July 16th, relative to the renewal of the treaty with Prussia, which is decyphering; and July 23d. giving an account of the rendering homage to the King by his nobles and people: the latter I have the honour to inclose; together with a private letter addressed to you from Mr. Murray.
I am, with great respect, / sir, your most obt. servant,
Timothy Pickering


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 14 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 14th 1798

I received last night your favor of the 5th. The letter for our minister at Berlin shall be forwarded as you desire & thank you for dispatching the instructions to the collectors & the commission to Mr. Bushrod Washington.
There were two young gentlemen nephews to the president general who were at college, when my family was in Philadelphia, & sometimes visited us, who appeared to me to be promising young men. I wish you would suggest to Mr McHenry to make some inquiry about them, and find out whether out whether they are proper for any appointment in the army or otherwise; & whether they are desirous of publick employment. The delicacy which has restrained the family may do injustice to them & the public, if some precautions are not taken. I am Sir / your most obedient

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 14 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 14th 1798

I returned the commission for Gen. Thomas Posey with papers inclosed in your favor of the 5 which I received last night.
I have received your other favor of the 5th inclosing Mr. Pattens letter for which I thank you.
I am Sir your / most obedient

J Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 15 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 15th 1798

I have received yours of the 6th & thank you for the intelligence from the Southward.
The effervescence at Madrid as well as the news from Naples coincides with Mr. King’s letter & the news from Trieste confirms or rather favors the account that Buonaparte’s destination was the Adriatick not Egypt. But we must wait for further eclaireissement.
Mr. Sullivans letter gives me apprehension that our friend Benson has been stretching himself in order to be perfectly upright, untill he has bent backwards. But to the law and to the testimony we must submit to the decision; but the very mess they have made is a demonstration to me that our claim is just.
I am Sir with great regard

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 15 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

PrivateDear SirQuincy Oct. 15. 1798

I recd. your answer to the Address from Virginia, concinnate and consummate. My Secretary gave a hint of it to Mrs. Adams and She insisted upon his bringing it to her Bedside and reading it to her. She desires me to tell you, that weak and low as She is She has spirit enough left to be delighted with it. She says it is the best answer to an Address that ever was written and worth all that ever were written. You may well Suppose that I, who am So Severely reflected on by these Compliments, am disposed enough to think them a little extravagant. I however think the Answer excellent, and wish you had to answer all the saucy Addresses I have recd. I dont intend to answer any more of the disrespectfull ones. I am, with great / Esteem,

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 15 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 15th 1798

I have received your favor of the 5 with its inclosures. I must leave the Niger to the justice & impartiality of our tribunals & the conduct of Capt. Nicholson to the judgment of the world; but I lament & deplore the misfortunes of his people. The orders you have given him are the most prudent & humane immaginable.
Inclosed are letters from Gov. Fenner and old comodore Hopkins recommending Capt John Field to be lietenant in the navy.
Capt Joseph Ingraham has been recommended with much importunity for a lietenant. He is undoubted a man of abilities & experience. But there is opposition to him. We must enquire concerning him.
With great esteem I am Sir / your most obedient

J Adams


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 15 October 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir.
War Department 15 Octbr. 1798

I had the honour to receive your letter of the 30th of Septr. ulto. inclosing commissions for the three Major Generals of the army of the United States, signed and dated on the same day.
In contemplating the communications which may be expected from this department, at the time of presenting his commission to each of the Generals, I found myself embarrassed respecting the course you meant I should pursue upon the occasion. It was my earnest wish to avoid the renewal of a subject, that had already been attended with too many unpleasant circumstances, by returning the question upon you for more precise instructions. After considerable deliberation, I at last was induced to transmit the commissions to Generals Hamilton & Knox, and to inform them, that I considered the order of nomination and approval by the Senate as determining their relative rank.
I have also written to Generals Hamilton and Knox, calling them into service, and soliciting their presence, as soon as possible, and in all events by the 10th of November proximo. This measure has appeared to me indispensable, the mode proposed in my letter of the 4th of August ulto. for selecting proper characters as officers, for the new regiments being now impracticable, without postponing the appointments to a very late period. It would be desireable also, that I should be authorised to require the attendance of General Washington.
My design is, to derive from the knowledge the generals may have of the several characters, who have applied for military appointments, and others disposed to enter into the army, effectual and necessary aid, in the selection and application of the most suitable characters to the different grades, and to prepare in conjunction with them, a list for your final determination; and also to avail myself of their knowledge and experience in digesting a report to be submitted for your approbation—relative to the measures necessary to be pursued, to give efficacy and ensure success to the recruiting service, to the distribution of the military force of the United States;—the most certain, regular and œconomical mode of provisioning the recruits and the troops in the field;—the quantity and kinds of artillery, military stores and other articles necessary to be procured in addition to what we already have in our magazines and arsenals, and the proper places for occasional or permanent deposits of the same. I also purpose to assign to the two Major Generals Hamilton and Knox such branches of the military service as were suggested in my letter of the 4th of August ulto.
I should, Sir, certainly consider it my duty to report to you upon the several subjects above stated, without the assistance of the general officers; but it is beleived to be the practice, and a judicious and salutary practice, in every government in Europe, for the minister of war to avail himself of the opinions and aid of the most experienced military officers of the country, and to prepare in concert with the most confidential of them, plans of campaigns, and all great arrangements connected with the military service. By thus setting out with a system, and calculating its expences, we shall be better prepared to met them, and will only be liable to embarrassment in consequence of the unforeseen exigencies, which are the inevitable attendants upon a state of warfare.
I take the liberty of respectfully suggesting the censure, which will attach particularly to the department of war, should the appointment of the officers for the new regiments, and in consequence, the recruiting service, be longer delayed; that complaints are accumulating from all quarters, and that the ardor of the country may soon subside to a temperature unfavourable to the attainment of soldiers from the most eligible description of our citizens; and that with all the expedition which can be used in this business, I have my apprehensions whether recruiting can be commenced, as things are situated, before the meeting of Congress. Permit me therefore to observe, that the presence of the President appears both important and desireable to give the utmost facility and effect to these measures
With the greatest respect I have the honour to be Sir / Your most ob & hble st.

James McHenry


Title: To John Adams from David Payson, 15 October 1798
From: Payson, David,Cunningham, William
To: Adams, John

Sir
Wiscasset County of Lincoln at a Regimental review 15 Octr 1798—

Although possibly the last to declare, yet be assured, that we the Second Regiment, in first Brigade & eighth Division of the Militia of Massachusetts, & the Companies of Cavalry & Artilery Commanded by Silas Lee & David Silvester, will not be the last, to prove our attachment to our Country, & happy Government: if to Strengthen the hands of the hand of the Supreme Executive, by declaring our utmost Confidence in his Integrity, firmness, & Ability, & our Cordial approbation of his Conduct; if a declaration of our abhorrence, of the Corruption, & venality of a Nation, who legislatively Set at Nought God, & his holy religion, as well as every principle of honesty justice, or even common decency; if a resentment for the Insults offered our Messengers of peace, or for a Case & perfidious Attempt, to disunite & alienate our Citizens, from our Government; if, finally, a readiness to unsheath our Swords, to support our Constituted Authorities, to check & bring to condign punishment disorganizing faction, and french or foreign influence at home, or to avenge our injured Country & plundered Citizens from abroad; if these are to be admitted as evidence of the fact, we the field Officers of the Regiment aforementioned, & the Commanding officers of the Several Companies thereof, & of the Cavalry & Artilery aforesaid, Subscribing for themselves & in behalf of their Companies at the unanimous request of the same, do here tender you the proof—And when the Welfare, National honor, & Independence of our Country, require our More Active Service, to oppose domestick faction, foreign rapacity, or invasion, we request you to call us forth, & we hereby proffer & pledge ourselves, at the risk of our lives & property—our all that’s dear, Most cheerfully to obey—

David Payson Lt. Collo Comdt:Willm: Cunningham 1 MajorWillem Levey— 2 MajorSilas LeeDavid SilvesterPaul DanfordAbner WaideJoseph Reed—Ephrasm. AllerySamuel AverellCharles Chase—Ebenr. SmithDaniel WebsterSaml: GoodwinJosiah Parsons


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 15 October 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir
Trenton Oct. 15. 1798.

I have the honor to send herewith a packet & letter from Mr. Pitcairn, received yesterday morning, and to inclose the letter No. 128. and the document it refers to, from Mr. Adams at Berlin, which in my last I mentioned were in the act of being decyphered.
Before this gets to hand you will find that General Pinckney arrived at New-York last Saturday afternoon: So I find it stated in a paper from that city.
I have also received (by yesterday’s mail) a large pamphlet for you giving an account of the conduct of the French in overturning the government of Switzerland, which I will forward in a few days, wishing your indulgence of time to read it, as of a nature like the Summary by Chauvet of the overturning of Geneva, which I have had translated, to be published in a pamphlet.
I have the honor to be with great respect, / Sir / yr. most obt. Servt.
Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 15 October 1798
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department 15 Octor. 1798.

In my letter of to Day on the subject of appointments—I omitted to mention Mr Benjamin Strother, (Who was an Officer in the Army & resigned on accot of pecuniary embarrassments, under circumstances honorable to himself)—as a Lieutenant of Marines.
I now beg leave to mention him for that appointment—He is recommended by the Secy at War, & is spoken of by the officers with whom he served as a very brave Man. Such Men only  should be in the Navy.
I have the honor to be / with the highest respect / & esteem sir Yr Most / Obedt. Servt.
Ben Stoddert


Title: From John Adams to Rufus King, 16 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: King, Rufus

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct. 16. 1798

The inclosed Letter from the Sec. of State I pray you to convey in Safety and as Soon as may be to Berlin.
I ought not to omit the opportunity to thank you for the Pamphlets you have Sent me from time to time. They not only entertain and amuse me but I flatter myself are Usefull. Our Country Seems to be, as we used to Say in 1774 unanimous & firm. They are much more So now than they were then. N. York and Pennsylvania, were always a little, chancellants. But they will be kept tollerably steady. There are strong Pillars in both.
But, Watchman, what of the Night? Where is all tending? I am weary of conjectures. Will Princes ever be more wise, or People more temperate or United? or Aristocrats more willing to acknowledge a Superiour? With great Regard I have the Honor / to be sir your most obedient

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 16 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy Oct 16th 1798

I have received your favor of the 11th and return you three warrants signed, which you may fill up for Gen. Collot, Mr. Sweitzer & the person mentioned in Mr. Kings letter if he is to be found.
I could trust the heads of departments with this power rather than my own judgment. But I think we ought to give the act a strict construction and therefore doubt the propriety of delegating the authority.
I am chearfully of Mr. Wolcotts opinion that the Secretary of State ought to be the person intrusted with the taking of the proofs permitted to be given by Aliens to establish their innocence in order to obtain licences to remain in the US for all cases within a reasonable distance from the seat of government and hereby authorise & request you to insert the Secy of State accordingly.
Inclosed is a power to you to attend to the business of the Navy office in the absence of Mr Stoddert.
I have the honor to be &c

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 17 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy Oct. 17. 1798

I have recd your favour of the 17th and return you three Warrants signed, which you may fill up for General Collot, Mr. Sweitzer and the Person mentioned in Mr. Kings Letter, if he is to be found.
I could trust the Heads of Departments with this Power, rather than my own Judgment; But I think We ought to give the Act a strict Construction, and therefore doubt the Propriety of delegating the Authority.
I am clearly of Mr. Woolcotts Opinion that the Secretary of State ought to be the Person intrusted with the taking of the Proofs, permitted to be given by Aliens to establish their Innocence in order to obtain Licences to remain in the United States, for all Cases within a reasonable Distance from the seat of Government, and hereby Authorize and request you to insert the Secretary of State accordingly.
Inclosed is a Power to you to attend to the Business of the Navy Office, in the absence of Mr. Stoddert.
I have the Honor to be, sir / your most obt. sert.
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 17 October 1798
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department October 17th. 1798

The Arrangement of the Rank of the Captains in the Navy, is a Subject which will soon demand attention.—
It will I believe be of great consequence to the character of our Navy, that the last four of the first Six Captains appointed, should be retained in the service. They seem to be men who would do honor to the any service. The paper enclosed No. 1, details particularly, the circumstances connected with the pretensions of these Gentlemen.—
Talbot & Dale contend for the Rank given them by the first appointment in 1794: And without obtaining it, I fear neither will continue in the service. If they do obtain it, I fear Truxton, a man of equal merit will not.—They served last War,—Truxton did not. In 1794 they were appointed to rank above Truxton; and have by no act of their own forfeited their right to such Rank.—On the other hand Truxton is in possession—his Commission, I understand is No. three. He may urge in his favor the Act of Congress, directing the building of three Frigates & discontinuing the other three; and the act of the Executive in making a second nomination of Talbot, Dale & Sever; on the principle no doubt that their former appointments ceased to exist, when the building of the Frigates destined for them was abandoned.
It is probable an opportunity will offer in December, of getting these three men together,—And some mode may be devised to give satisfaction to them all—In the mean time, I have written to Talbot & Dale, that the subject will then be taken up, and have urged them to retain their Commissions at least till that time.—
The relative rank of the Captains who have been lately appointed, Seems to require more immediate consideration—Almost any arrangement of these Officers can be made now, and without producing resignation, at least without producing Resignations of those most desireable to be retained in the Service.
It is however strictly right to exercise the power of giving them (I mean those who have been appointed since I have been in Office, beginning with Philips) the relative rank to which their respective merits entitle them: For they have generally been appointed, not because the person appointed was to be preferred to others at the time on the List of Candidates, (The Rule which governs in all other cases) but merely because a Vessel was in greater forwardness at the place where he happened to reside, than at other places. And it was conceived to be proper to make appointments only as Employment could be found for the Captains appointed, and to make them from the places furnishing the Vessels, and where the Crews were to be obtained. Thus Philips of Baltimore was appointed the 3rd July because the ship at that place required the attention of a Captain—And the Merchants there, knew of no person to recommend in Preference.—Thus too Williams of Norfolk was appointed the 17th. July, because a Brig at Norfolk was expected to be soon in service.—
The paper No. 2 Exhibits the names of all the Captains with the order of their appointments, placing some of the least experienced, if not the least meritorious Captains too high in Rank—and others of greater Experience, and I believe greater merit too low.
I therefore take the Liberty to propose,—To place McNeill, Murray, Tingey, Fletcher& Chapman, and in the order they are named, between Morris & Philips
The arrangement of Captains not noticing the first six, would then stand—Decatur of Pensylva. Perry of Rhode Island, Morris of New york, McNeill of Massachusetts, Murray of Pensylvania, Tingey of New Jersey, Fletcher of Massachusetts, Chapman of Massachusetts, Philips of Maryland, Williams of Virginia, Cross of South Carolina, Barron of Virginia, Tryon of Connecticut; Brown of Massachusetts.—
Williams, under Murray’s Command on the expedition to the West Indies, had a Commission older than Murray’s.—But having confidence in Murray, and not knowing Williams’s true character, indeed being afraid to trust him with a Command of so much importance to the honor of the Navy, I was reduced to the necessity of losing the service of Williams’s Brig of 18 Guns or giving the Command to Murray, by inserting words in his Commission, to give him Rank before the date of Williams’s Commission, but under the express condition that the Words so inserted should be erased on his return from the Expedition, and that he should not on that account quit the service.
Should the Idea I have suggested, placing him & others, higher on the List of Captains, than their present standing, be approved, it can easily be done without altering the dates, by inserting in their Commissions the Words “To take rank from any particular period.”—
I am confident no Injury can result to the service, from the proposed arrangment. And if it be not made, it will frequently occur that the services of a Vessel must be lost because the Commander cannot be trusted with the command of the Expedition more vessels than his own, as would have been the Case in the late Instance of Murray & Williams, had it not been for the Expedient I ventured to adopt.—
I have the honor / to be &c


Title: To John Adams from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 17 October 1798
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Treasury Department October 17th. 1798.

The Secretary of the Treasury in Obedience to the command of the President of the United States respectfully submits the following Report.
That the facts stated in the petitions of Robert Wanton herewith transmitted, praying for the pardon of an offence committed by him against the Revenue Laws of the United States are verefied by the Letter of the Collector for the District of Boston and Charlestown also transmitted, dated the 27th. of September 1798, and that in the opinion of the Secretary the said Robert Wanton is a suitable object for the clemency of the President.
All which is respectfully / Submitted by
Oliv WolcottSecy of the Treasy.


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 18 October 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

(private)Sir,Trenton Oct. 18. 1798.

I have the honour to return you Mr. Murray’s letter’s decyphered; the first is, in different points of view, very interesting. The name he refers to I retain for another conveyance.
General Pinckney is at Newark, where he proposes to stay ten days or a fortnight. He asked me (in his letter recd. the 16th) whether you would expect him to wait on you. I answered, that considering it must oblige him to leave his family and make an extra journey of more than five hundred miles, and expose him & his family, with a daughter sick, or in tender health, to make a voyage by land or water at a season of the year less eligible than the present, I was persuaded you would not expect it. This answer was sent before he, in a second letter, mentioned his intention to pass ten days or a fortnight at Newark. But I suppose it is the ill health of his daughter that occasions that stay. I suggested however that it would be desirable that he should commit to writing the information he would have given if he could have visited you in person.
He sent me two French news-papers which he had just recd. One contains the arret for taking off the embargo on American vessels, sndwhich offers a fresh insult to the government of the U. States. I had before seen a translation of it in the news-papers.
I have the honor  /to be with great respect, / sir, your most obt. servant
Timothy Pickering


Title: From John Adams to Richard Benbury, 19 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Benbury, Richard

To the Officers and Soldiers of the Regiment of Militia in the County of Chowan in the State of North Carolina.Gentlemen
Quincy October 19. 1798

Your unanimous Address at Edenton of the fourth of September has been transmitted to me by your Richard Benbury Esqr your Brigadier General.
After a solemn Embassy of three Envoys had been denied an opportunity to negotiate, the miserable Attempt to divide them from each other, and carry on a delusive shew of negotiation, for the purpose of effecting Divisions in our Country, was too mean and contemptible to impose upon the Credulity of any true hearted American. I rejoice in the opportunity of congratulating on, you on the ill success of that wretched Artifice, both with the envoys or People of America and with the Envoys, who are now all happily returned to their Country.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Nc. Militia Guilford County, 19 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Guilford County, Nc. Militia

To the Officers of the Guilford Regiment of Militia and the Inhabitants of the County convened at the Courthouse in Martinville on the 15. of September 1798
GentlemenQuincy October 19. 1798

The Unanimous Address adopted by you has been transmitted to one as you directed by Major John Hamilton to Mr Steele and by Mr Steele to me.
Addresses to one like yours, so friendly to me and so animated with public spirit, can never stand in need of any Apology.... It is on the contrary very true, that the affectionate Addresses of my Fellow Citizens have flowed in upon me from various Parts of the Union in such Numbers, that it has been utterly impossible for me to preserve any Regularity in my answers without neglecting the indispensable daily Duties of my office. This, and a long continued & very dangerous sickness in my Family, most seriously alarming to me, will I hope by Accepted by you and by all others, whose favours have not been duely noticed, as an Apology for a seeming Neglect which has been a very great mortification to me. There is no language, within my command sufficient to express the satisfaction I have felt at the abundant Proofs of Harmony and Unanimity among the People especially in the southern states and in none more remarkably than in North Carolina.
Your Patriotic Address, agreed on adopted on the memorable Ground where a Memorable Battle was once fought by Freemen on the 15th of March 1781 in support Defence of their Liberties and suport of their Independence, is peculiarly forcible and affecting.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 19 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy Oct 19th 1798

I recieved return you Mr Adams letter & the speeches. The latter with an extract from the former might be advantageously inserted in the newspapers.
I return you Mr Murrays letter to me of the 14th of July which I pray you to decypher
with great regard

John Adams