Title: To John Adams from William G. Smith, 1 January 1813
From: Smith, William G.
To: Adams, John

Sir:
Quincy Jany 1st: 1813

Your favor of 30th: ulto. was duly handed me by my Sister and I have since, seriously reflected on its contents. You require a categorical answer to the Question.—Do I believe the present War against Great Britain to be just.—I cannot answer directly to that Question.—As I have never taken an active part in Politics, and am not in any manner pledged to any Party, I consider that I can with propriety accept an Office under the Government of the United States; as my principle is—that a Gentleman, in accepting an Office either in the Army or the Navy, is bound in Honor, to obey the directions of his Superiors, and to give his utmost aid in the prosecution of such orders, as he may receive, from them.
I do believe it necessary to the Honor, Interest, Dignity, & Safety of this Nation to possess an efficient Navy, and I believe, that every Citizen in this Country is bound to give every assistance toward the accomplishment of so desirable an object.—
You will I trust, excuse my answering, your second Question, after the exposure I have made to you of my sentiments on Public Duty;
I have the honor to be / With much respect, / Your obt Servant,
William G. Smith


Title: To John Adams from William Plumer, 2 January 1813
From: Plumer, William
To: Adams, John

My dear Sir,
Epping (NH) January 2d 1813

I received by the last mail your obliging letter of the 16th December; & be assured I am highly gratified by the information that my late speech merited your approbation.
You observe that you are unable to account for the change in the sentiments of the New England states, & New York & New Jersey, as exprest in their recent elections; & request my opinion thereon.
I regret that I have not the necessary information, nor sufficient leisure to examine this subject with accuracy & precision.
The change in the public sentiment in these seven States, within these few months, I impute to various causes; but the principal, I think, proceeds from the money, talents, arts, industry, & innumerable misrepresentations & falsehoods, circulated by the friends & advocates of Britain, & those connected in commerce with that nation. The Zeal, activity & persevering industry of these men, in money, runners, papers & pamphlets exceed all former examples. New gazette’s have been established, & I have strong reasons to beleive, that in some instances the party has restored to direct bribery & corruption. But the election of a President & Vice President of the United States unfortunately occurring so soon after the declaration of war, formed the rallying point for the opposionists, which they seized with avidity & improved so as greatly to encrease their numbers. A division of opinion also, unfortunately existed amongst the Republicans in some States, respecting a candidate for the Presidency; this afforded to the leaders of modern federalism cause of triumph. These federalists joined the minor party of Republicans, & strenuously supported Clinton—a man immoderate in all his measures; & to that portion of the people who were opposed to the war, they assured them he was in favor of peace, but to those who approved the war, they with equal confidence asserted he would prosecute it with redoubled vigor. No political party, in this country, ever made a greater sacrifice of principle, than the federalists have done on this occasion. They have strenuously supported, for the first office in the nation, a man whose whole political life till within a few months, has been in direct opposition to them, & from his violence, peculiarly obnoxious to them. As they are defeated in this object, I think that party must necessarily feel degraded, & I trust sink in public estimation. It is with pleasure I have received information, that I deem correct, that such men as John Jay & Rufus King of New York, James Ross of Pennsylvania, Charles C. Pinkney of South Carolina, &c. could not be induced to join this unnatural & unprincipled coalition.
Other causes have contributed to the change. It was natural to expect that when war was declared in a country which had for thirty years enjoyed peace, it would be unpopular with a portion of its citizens, particularly with Merchants who were acquiring wealth by their commercial connexions with Britain, & with Lawyers, whose professional emoluments must to a great degree be lessened: hence a great proportion of both these classes are found in the ranks of opposition. After so long a period of peace, we had no right to expect with the commencement of the war, a display of those military talents & virtues in the field that could render it popular. Our little brave Navy has indeed surpassed our most sanguine expectations, but they were not manned with raw recruits.
The Clergy, at least too many of them have been deceived by the leaders of opposition, & they in turn have deceived many others. The clergy were promised better & more certain livings, if a change of government could be effected, then what their merits under our present glorious freedom of religious rights, can secure them. They united in favor of our revolutionary war to secure themselves against Episcopacy; but they now oppose the war in hopes of raising themselves to greater security against the numerous sectaries who assail them. It will be fortunate, if such men as Osgood, Parish, Gardner & others do not induce many men to transfer the contempt they have for such priests to religion itself. The fear of approaching taries & burthens—the continuing the Presidency so long in Virginia—that spirit of inconstancy common to the people—& the Government’s so long & so imprudently reflecting the encrease & support of the Navy—have each of them, I think, had an unfavorable effect upon the public mind. But I impute much, very much indeed, of the evil to the leaven of Clintonism—that insensibly fermented & raised the public mind to a state approaching a political delirium. In their great object, the electing of a President, they have been defeated—& have now no general & popular rallying point. The war will & must assume its true character, & parties be more distinctly marked friends or enemies of their country.
Though I admit considerable changes have recently happened in the eastern States, yet I think not so great as is generally beleived.
In New Hampshire, if the Republicans last March had united to a man for one candidate for Governor his majority would have been small indeed—And in November had the Republicans obtained in each town three votes from those who voted for federalists, every Representative for the next Congress would have been Republican—notwithstanding more than that number of republicans were in the army, , or in forts or absent from the November polls. And at the late session, in both houses of the Legislature, although Clintonism had effected them, yet there was a majority who approved of the war, as they explicitly declared in their answers to my speech.
In Vermont, its legislature in all its branches are Republican—its electors Madisonian, & I trust its Representatives to the next Congress will be all so; but if in this they have failed, I shall impute it to the dangerous practise of suddenly changing the mode of election.
Of Massachusetts you have better means of judging than I have, how far the change is real, & to what extent.
Rhode Island could never be calculated on as safe—constant in nothing but change.
Connecticut is stationary.
Of New York, I have but little recent information—certain districts were pledged to federalism previous to their last elections, & in consideration of votes to be given for their Presidential candidate.
New Jersey is still republican; though they had a majority of five federalists in their legislature, yet that legislature did not dare trust the people with the choice of Electors: hence they repealed the law for choosing by the people, even after some of the meetings were warned. But from such a Governor as Ogden I fear little—he is an American—he feels & acts as such.
I trust all will end well—that American principles will prevail, & our free government be more securely established, but if we fail, the world must abandon Republicanism, & man confess he cannot live without a Master to tyrannize & rule him.
Why do not your valuable letters still continue to inform the public in the Boston patriot?
I shall be happy to hear from you at all times. Excuse my freedom & beleive me yours sincerely,
William Plumer


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Rush, 4 January 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Rush, Benjamin

Honoured and learned sir
Quincy Jan. 4. 1813

Be pleased to accept my humble Duty for the notice you have condescended to take of me. I will do my best to shake a little animation into my Master for a few days or months or possibly years. But what is the prospect before him? What can he expect? or hope? or wish? He is 77 and more: three and twenty years will make him 100. thirteen years will make him 90: three years will bring him to fourscore. And what are three, thirteen, or three and twenty years, at any state stage of Life, in Infancy Manhood or old age? especially in extream old age? How many Pains and Aches, which I cannot shake away, has he to endure? How much low spirits? how many gloomy anxious moments for the dangers, disgraces, disasters, degeneracy, Vices, Follies, Ignorance, Stupidity, and Vanity of his Country? How many Wives, Daughters, Sons, Grand Children, Brothers Cousins may he loose in 23. 13. or 3. Years? How many of the few remaining public political Friends must disappear? Even Dr Rush himself? Oh! if he were to read this he would shed many Tears. Pray conceal it from him! But there are other Things. How much Ecclesiastical Bigottry superstition and Persecution may he have to bewail? How much Calumny Intrigue Party Spirit, political Fury and civil War may he have to deplore? I will leave the rest, Sir to your profound Reflections. I will only compare the foregoing Periods with some of his past Life. Fifteen years he spent at schools Male and female grammar and A.B.C. When he did not play’d Truant, and when he did not he spent all his Mornings Noons and Nights in making and sailing Boats, in Swimming Skaiting, flying Kites and shooting in marbles, Ninepins, Bat and Ball, Footbal &c &c &c Quoits Wrestling and sometimes Boxing &c &c &c and what was no better running about to Quiltings and Huskings and Frolicks and Dances among the Boys and Girls!!! These 15 years went off like a Fairy Tale. Apply such a 15 years to his present age and it will make 93.He then spent 4 years at Collidge. He had begun to love a Book. Fare well Shooting Skaiting Swimming, and all the rest. Oh! the Mathematicks the Metaphisicks the Logick not forgetting Classicks! Seeking Books and Bookish Boys,  devouring Books without Advice and without Judgment. The 4 years were gone like a tale that is told. Add such a 4 years to his present age and it will make him 81. He then passed 3 years at Worcester, among black Letter French and Latin Law and kept a school to pay for the Priviledge—The 3 years were gone seemingly in the twinkling of an Eye. Add such a three years to his present age and it will make him 80. He then removed to Braintre County of Suffolk in Massachusetts, where he spent 17 years at the Bar, riding Circuits, getting Money and a Wife and Children. But the 17 years flew away like the Morning Cloud. Add 17 such years and you will make him 90. Four years more were then spent in Congress, you know how. But they were gone like a dream. Add 4 such years to his present age and you make him 81. Then he was ten years in Europe; on the mountain Wave, over the Hills and far away. But the 10 years were gone he scarcely knew how. Add 10 such and they will make him 87. He had then an Interval of eight or nine months. Then he was 8 years V. President; a Target for the Archers; a Constant object of the Bilingsgate, scurrity, Misapprehension, Misconstruction Misrepresentations Lies and Libels of all Parties. These 8 went away like a nauseous Fog. Add such an 8 to his age and you make him 85. He was then President for 4 years. A Tale told by an Ideot full of sound and fury Signifying Nothing. Vanity of Vanities all was Vanity! Add such a four years and you would infallibly kill him long before he would be 81. Twelve years have past in solitude, far the pleasantest of all: yet where are they? gone like the Dew, the blossoms, the Flowers and the Leaves. Add such another 12 and you make him 89; withered, faded, wrinkled tottering trembling stumbling, sighing groaning, weeping! Oh! I have Some Scruples of Conscience, whether I ought to preserve him: whether it would not be charity to stumble, and relieve him from such a futurity. Add only 24 such years as have passed since his return from Europe to America and you make him 101. an object of wonder and of Pity to a gaping stareing World!
And now, my venerable learned, philosophical religious virtuous excellent Sir, permit me to ask whether this address is not as monitory, a moral essay as any in Johnsons Rambler or his Prince of Abyssinia, Remember too it is a Horse that asks the question, and that Horse is
Hobby.


Title: From John Adams to Joseph Bradley Varnum, 5 January 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Varnum, Joseph Bradley

Sir
Quincy. January 5. 1813

Thanks for your favour of the 12th of last month. The momentous Information is Since confirmed.
As to the Bonds, I have little to Say. It is best to pardon them, upon the whole. The pressure is really hard, very hard upon our Cities and the Countries about them, and the agitation of Mind very great.
The foundation of an American Navy, which I presume is now established by Law, is a grand Æra in the History of the World. The consequences of it, will be greater than any of Us can foresee. Look to Asia and Affrica, to South America and to Europe for its Effects. My private opinion had been for Frigates and smaller Vessells: but I rejoice that the Ideas of Congress have been greater. The foundation of a Solid permanent Navy must be laid.  The four quarters of the World are in a ferment: We Shall interfere every where: nothing but a Navy, under Heaven can secure, protect or defend Us.
It is an Astonishment to every enlightened Man in Europe, who considers Us at all; that We have been So long insensible and inattentive to this great Instrument of national Prosperity; this most efficacious Arm of national Power, Independence and Safety.
I could give you many proofs of this, but I will confine my Self to two.
In June 1779 I dined with Monsieur Thevenot, Intendant of the Navy at Lorient, certainly one of the most experienced, best read, and most Scientific Naval Commanders in Europe! That excellent Officer said to me, in the hearing of The Chevalier de La Luzerne, Mr Marbois and twenty Officers of the French Navy “Your Country is about to become the first Naval Power in the World.” My answer was “It is impossible to foresee, what may happen, a hundred, or two or three hundred years hence: but there is at present no appearance of probability of any great maritime Power in America, for a long time to come. “Hundred Years?” Said Thevenot, “it will not be twenty  years before you will be a match for any of the maritime Powers of Europe.” You Surprise me, Sir, I have no Suspicion or conception of any Such great Things. Will you allow me to ask your reasons for Such an Opinion? “My Reasons!” Said Mr Thevenot. “My reasons are very obvious; You have all the Materials and the knowledge and Skill to employ them; You have Timber, Hemp Tar and Iron, and Seamen and naval Architects equal to any in the World.” I know we have Oak and Pine, and Iron and We may have hemp: but I did not know that our Shipwrights were equal to yours in Europe. “The Frigate in which you came here, Said Mr Thevenot, “(the Alliance Captain Landais)” is equal to any in Europe. I have examined her, and I assure you there is not in the kings Service, nor in the English Navy, a Frigate more perfect and compleat in Materials or Workmanship.” It gives me great pleasure, Sir, to hear your Opinion. I knew we had or might have materials: but I had not flattered myself that We had Artists equal to those in Europe. Mr Thevenot repeated, with Emphasis, “You may depend upon it, there is not in Europe a more perfect Piece of Naval Architecture than your Alliance, and indeed several other of your Frigates that have already arrived here and in other Ports of France.” My reply was, your Character forbids me to scruple any Opinion of yours, in Naval Affairs: But one thing I know, we Delight so much in Peace and hate War so heartily that it will be a long time, before We Shall trouble ourselves much with Naval Forces. We shall probably have a considerable Commerce and Some Nurseries of Seamen: but we had so much wild Land, and the most of Us loved Land so much better than sea, that many years must pass, before we should be ambitious of Power upon the Ocean, We had Land enough. No temptation to go abroad for Conquests. If the Powers of Europe should let us alone, We Should Sleep quietly for ages, without thinking much of Ships of War.
I returned to America and stayed about three months when Congress Sent me to Europe again. We landed at Ferro in Spain. In a few days a french Squadron of five Ships of the Line came in. I was Soon invited to dine with the Admiral, or as the French call him the General, or the Chef d’Escadre, The Count De Sade, with all the officers of the Squadron on board his 80 Gun Ship. At Table in the hearing of all the Company, The Count Said to me “Your Congress will Soon become one of the great maritime Powers.” Not very Soon, Monsieur le Comte; It must be a long time first. “Why a long time? No People have such advantages.” There are many difficulties in the Way: many causes against it. “What difficulties? No Nation has such Nurseries of seamen so near it. You have the best Timber for the Hulks of ships and best Masts and Sparrs. You have Pitch Tar and Turpentine. You have Iron plenty and I am informed you grow hemp. And you have Skillful Shipbuilders. What is wanting?” The Will, Monsieur le Comte, the Will will be wanting if nothing else. “We have a Maxim, among Us, Mariners, that, with Wood, Hemp and Iron, a Nation may do what it pleases. If you get your Independence, as I doubt not you will, the Trade of all Nations will be open to you, and you will have a very extensive Commerce; and Such a Commerce will want protection.” We must have a considerable Commerce, but our Lands will be so much out of proportion to our Trade, that if the Powers of Europe do not disturb Us, it must be ages before We Shall want a Navy, or be willing to bear the expence of it.
I Said I would give you two Anecdotes. I will add a third. In 1778 I went to France in The Boston Frigate. We took a very rich Prize commanded by a Captain who had Served twenty years in the British Navy several of them as a Lieutenant. The Captain Soon became very curious to examine the Ship. Captain Tucker allowed him to see every Part of her. As We lived together in the Cabin, We became very intimate. He frequently expressed to me his Astonishment. He Said “he had never seen a compleater ship; that there was not a Frigate in the Royal Nay better built, of better materials, or more perfectly equipped, furnished or Armed. However, he added, you are the rising Country of the World and if you can Send to Sea Such Ships as this, you will Soon be able to do great Things.”
As I believe you are by this time tired with reading old Anecdotes I will Subscribe without Ceremony
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Rush, 8 January 1813
From: Rush, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

My dear friend
Philadelphia Jany: 8th 1813

Having just now gotten my task, that is, revised my lecture, and added to it the results of my reading, and Observations during the last year, I now sit down to acknowledge the receipt of your three last very pleasant and entertaining letters.
I shall begin my Answer to them by wishing you a happy new year!—
I was much gratified with your Account of your Conversations at two late public dinners.— But I was more struck with the wonderful health and spirits which you discover in being able at 77 to occupy a Chair in at large convivial board, to take an active part in the subjects that are usually discussed in such companies, and Afterwards to ride 12 miles in the dark, or by moonlight to Quincy. It was said of Dr Johnson After he published his lives of the poets that “like tin, he was bright to the last.” To unite study, business & company in middle life, falls to the lot of but few men. Lord Bolingbroke it is said possessed talents for them all in an eminent degree, but he exercised them only in early life. You seem to have united the durable lustre of Johnson with the versatility of mind of Bolingbroke at a an advanced stage of life in a degree, of which I have seldom met with for instance in the histories of public men.—
I feel for Dr Waterhouse. He possesses talents, knowledge and great worth. Can nothing be done for him at Washington? He would make an excellent purveyor to a military hospital. The Medical department of our navy and army requires Amendment. It is a faithful and absurd copy of what it was under the Administration of Dr Shippen.
You have given the true reason for the hostility to a navy at Washington. Were the resources of our Country which are now thrown away on the borders of Canada, concentrated in a navy, w very different would be the Situation of the United States. The finger of heaven points to the Ocean as the theatre on which American must again contend for her independance. Your Anecdotes of the birth laborious birth of our little navy in the beginning of the revolutionary War are truly interesting. You may add to them what I once saw from the pen of Paul Jones, and heard from the lips of Commodore Barry. In the journal of the former are the following words. “My hands first hoisted the American flag.” The latter with equal exultation once said to me “The British Naval flag first struck to me,” alluding to his having taken the first British Sloop of War. The following lines which I cut out of the Aurora a few days ago will I hope no doubt accord with your feelings upon the present Subject.
Remember me most gratefully to my friend Hobby & thank him for his admirable letter. Read my lett lecture to him on the veterinary art, & tell him of my regard for his whole Species. I admire nothing more in the character of Howard than the provision he made for all his superannuated horses. I was charmed in hearing of the Affection of Burke for this horse that was rode by son noble animal. In walking thro’ one of his fields at Beaconfield, he suddenly left his company & ran towards a horse which he embraced, and kissed. “This horse (said he to his company when they came up to him) was rode by My deceased son.” A physician died in this City about 20 years ago and left a horse of  20 on which he had visited his patients for many years. His son declared he should never be rode, nor worked again. He sent him to a farmers in the neighbourhood of Philada: where he was well fed, and lived and died agreeably to the declaration of the heir of his master. After these facts what shall we say to of an officer of high rank in the American army who sold his charger on which he had rode during the greatest part of the revolutionary war for 75 dollars? This officer I was told was a vile man.—For the honor of our Country I must conceal his name.—
Our excellent revolutionary friend Mr Clymer is I fear in the last stage of a fata disease which too generally in old people resists the power of medicine. A great mass of genius, knowledge & patriotism, without the least portion of party spirit, will descend with him to the grave. He is one of those few citizens of the United States who admits the outrages; and dreads the power of both France & Britain.
Yrs: truly & affectionately
Benjn Rush


Title: From John Adams to William Plumer, 10 January 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Plumer, William

Dr Sir
Quincy Jan. 10th. 1813

I know not when or where I have ever received a more luminous letter, than yours of the 2nd of this month. It is a Misfortune to an Old Man to receive a good letter: because it Springs a mine in his memory, and disposes him to write a Volume, which his life would not be long enough to finish. Hence the proverbial Garrulity of Age. I find nothing So difficult as to abridge and compress.
You have consolidated the causes of Change in the Northern States or at least your Observations coincide with mine; tho’ from my Solitary life, I was diffident of my own recollections and reflections.
Our two great Parties have crossed over the Valley and taken Possession of each others Mountain. The Coalition of North and Fox in 1783 was modest, in comparison with that between Clinton and the Federalists. To Jay, King, Ross and Pinkney the Pill was too bitter. A Gentleman of greater Talents and higher rank than Rufus King, asked him, at N. York “Do you intend to vote for De Witt?” Rufus answered “No. Would you vote for Ben. Austin”?
I can Say little of Mr Clinton, for I know nothing but by hearsay, having never Seen him. Of his Ambition, his Avarice, his Intrigues and those of his Unkle George, I have heard enough, but know very little. But one thing I know. The State of New York, has become a great State: and De Witt Clinton a great Man, good, bad, or indifferent. The Clintons are a Phenomenon in this Nation. No Governor, but George ever was Supported 25 years. Was this Talent? Was this Virtue? Was this, Policy? . . . It was a Union of Interests, that was neither formed or cemented by him, any more than his formation in his Mothers Womb was his Work. A coincidence of Irish, Scotch, Dutch, and Presbyterian Parties which he, himself never understood, Supported him in spight of the clumsy Ambition and gross Avarice, with which he is charged. To account for this combination of Interests in favour of George We must Search, thorougly Search the History of the Episcopal Church, and the great Manors, the Livingstons, the Phillipses and the Vanranselaers in New York. The Schulers, the Hamiltons and the Burrs, and the De Lanceys, have been but temporary Comets in this Planitary System of New York. De Witt, then is founded on a Rock. The Combination of Irish, Dutch, Presbyterians and all other Dissenters willSupport him against the Church and the Manors and the generous Horse new England will be ridden as hard as it ever has been by Virginia.
Was there ever a popular War, in any Nation? I was told by wise Men in France, that our american revolutionary War was the first and the only popular War, that a King of France ever waged. The present War has been unpopular in England for twenty years. The Wars of the Indians  are commonly begun against the Advice of the oldest and wisest Sachems; and The common People are averse, but War is urged on by ambitious young Warriours. The People, the Bulk of Nations, are unhappily always jealous and envious of Government and all who are concerned in it. They impute all Wars to the Ambition Avarice, Envy Jealosy, Pride and Revenge in their Rulers, in the most popular Governments as well as in the most absolute.
The Clergy of this Country are growing more and more like the Clergy of all other Countries. Osgood, Parish, Gardiner are but Miniatures of the South Sacheverel Laud, and Lorain, and in that rank I leave them.
It is the destiny of our Country to be divided. I Shall not be credited by any but Governor Langdon and Governor Gerry, Dr Rush and George Clymer when I assure you that almost every essential  Question from 1774 to 1813 has determined by very Small Majorities. Majorities for the last twelve Years have been greater than they ever were before, and perhaps than they will be again.
I agree with you, that the Change in New England is more in Appearance than in reality. But the Taxes! the Taxes! The Administration of the Nineteenth Century, have conjured up the Hobgoblin and they must exorcise the Fiend if they can.
Vermont is apparently in Opposition to all the rest of New England. New York was Sold for a valuable Consideration. I Suspect you have not been informed of the Analysis of their Election. If I am not misinformed, you will find Rufus King a Senator of U.S.
You ask why my Letters do not continue in the Patriot? My Answer is, 1st. I had finished my Plan, which was to deposit in Print, where Some curious Antiquarian might hereafter find them, certain Documents explanatory of my quasi War, and final Peace with France in the last Century: and of my Peace with Great Britain in 1782. & 1783, both of which had been misrepresented, libelled and belied, 2dly. I had exhausted the Patience of all Parties.
What is the Situation of your Friend in Petersburg? I must commit him as I have myself and all my Posterity to the Protection of the Powers above.
With Sincere Esteem I have the honour to be Sir your/ Friend and Servant

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Waterhouse, 16 January 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Waterhouse, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Quincy Jan. 16. 1812 1813

I am broke….I am a Bankrupt…
Je n’ai rien; Je dois par tout
Dans mes affaires Je Suis au but....
My Table is loaded with long, learned and ingenious Letters, from far and near, upon Religion Law Government History Politicks and War which I have not answered, and cannot answer. I will however not fail to acknowledge my debts to you both pecuniary and litterary; and trust to the Clemency of my other Creditors.
That ever Such a frivolous circumstance as the discontinuance of a Newspaper by a Man who does not read half he receives, Should make a Noise! Have the Wise Men of Boston nothing of more importance to meditate?
The other Rumour is of more consequence. Some Judges know too little and Some too much. “When a great learned Man dies” Says Lord Coke, “much good learning dies with him.”
When, the Man who is Said to have annihilated Bar and Jury dies, much Science and litterature, Some Useful and much Useless will die with him: and at the Same time, much crooked Policy will expire. Have you read Rush, on the diseases of the Mind? I know not whether he has enumerated all the Distempers of the Intellect. There is one which is born with Some Souls, and will never leave them till they leave the Body; perhaps not then. This Malady or rather this Ailment is vulgarly Yclept, left Handed Wisdom and Sometimes crooked Wisdom.
I was So much pleased at Mr Grays, that I was very much displeased to be called away: and had I not engaged to bring a worthy Old Gentleman and Lady to Quincy I would gladly have Sat till Eight O Clock and then come home by Moonlight.
Are you acquainted with our Medical Arrangements? and do you approve them? Sub rosâ; Rush writes me that “The Medical department of our Army and Navy requires Amendment. It is a faithful and absurd Copy of what it was under the Administration of Dr Shippen.” Do you know the Purveyors to our Military Hospitals?—
I very much fear, that the changes in the War and Navy departments are not much for the better. Armstrong has the Advantage of a military Reputation: but it is not doubtful, whether he has that patient and laborious Application to Business and Study which that Office requires. I have heard that his Sight is defective. He ought to be able to read, night and day. J. has no fame, that I have ever heard. His qualifications I shall presume to be good till the contrary appears. His Talents Should be the brightest and his qualities the most active and nervous.
Rush is So near my heart, that I must return to his very interresting Volume. It seems to me, that every excess of Passion Prejudice Appetite; of Love Fear, Jealousy, Envy, Revenge, Avarice Ambition; every Revery and Vagary of Imagination, the Fairy Tales, the Arabian Nights in Short almost all Poetry and all Oratory;  may every Ecart, every deviation from pure, logical mathematical Reason; may in Some Sense be called a disease of the mind.
Your Ennemies, are in their hearts Rushes Ennemies, and for the same Reasons, Medical and political. But you are both too fluent with your Pens. They dare not Attack you openly. They dare not meet you in the Field. They have recourse to their Sappers and Miners.
But for this Cowardice you would Soon See Rush’s Treatise attacked from all quarters, as Refinement, Vision Whim.
I know not two Characters more alike than Rushes and yours. I know not two more ingenious Men; nor too better informed Men; nor two better Men. Yet you See the Fortunes of both. The Kingdom of Virtue is not of this World. No, nor the Kingdom of Science; nor the Kingdom of Merit.
I Say nothing of myself.—My Singular Situation exposes to me to Expences that I cannot Support. But if there is any Way in which I can Serve you, consistently,  you may command / your Friend

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to James Madison, 17 January 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Madison, James

Sir
Quincy Jan. 17. 1812 1813

A young Gentleman, and his Father, have requested me to mention his Name to The Secretary of The Navy. I choose rather to mention it to you.
The youth has a fine Person, an elegant Figure, a fine Countenance, healthy vigorous and robust. His Education has been Accademical and mercantile in a very respectable House. His Father Served five years in our Revolutionary War, and his Grandfather was one of our Conquerors of Louisburg in 1745: I have uniformly observed that when once a military Tang, gets into a Family many Generations pass before the Taste is wholly lost. This young Man has accordingly been Seized with an ardent Ambition for the Naval Glory of his Country, and an Enthusiasm to participate in it. He wishes to be appointed a Midshipman: and as it was always my delight to promote young Persons of respectable Connections and promising Genius in the Navy, I have great Pleasure in recommending this one to your Consideration. His Name is John Marston Junior. His native Town and place of Residence Boston.
I am also requested to mention another Name, that of William G. Smith a native of Newbury Port, whose Family and connections are very respectable, his Education mercantile. He has travelled in Russia Denmark &c been captured and plundered Under the orders in Counsel. He wishes to be appointed a Purser. I believe him to be qualified for the Trust.
I have no other Connection with either of these Families than a transient Acquaintance.
I am also requested to mention another Name, that of Josiah Quincy Guild, a Native of Boston now resident with Widow Mother in Newton. He had a liberal Education, went into the Mercantile Line, went abroad was captured travelled in France and returned pillaged. He wishes to be a Purser
This is of a Family that has been in a Sort familiar to me from my Cradle. That Circumstance however ought to have no Weight with me and certainly will have none with you. I believe him to be qualified and worthy of the Trust.
With great and Sincere Esteem I have the Honour / to be Sir, your most obedient Servant

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Rush, 22 January 1813
From: Rush, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

My dear friend
Philadelphia Jany 22nd 1813

The letter from Col: Smith to which you have alluded was not received with yours of this day. Was it withheld,? or was it lost by the way?—I was much pleased in seeing his Name upon record among the Successful Candidates for a Seat in Congress from the state of New York. The Air, the Society, and the great Objects which will occupy his mind in Washington will recussitate him, and Show his Country what the difference between modern and revolutionary patriots & Soldiers.—I beg he may always take us in his Way to the head quarters of our Government. We feel related to all your family.
Capt: Jones  & Capt Barry meant only that the American flag was hoisted first on board a national Ship by his hands, and Capt: Barry meant only that a British National Ship Struck first to his national flag. Capt: Manly I believe commanded only a private Ship of War, and captured only British Merchantmen and transports more, I believe with you, to the benefit of our Country, and the Annoyance of our enemy, than any thing that was done by any One Naval Officer in the Service of the United States.
I feel with you for our friend Dr Waterhouse. Perhaps something may be Obtained for him from One of the two new Secretaries? I will second & Support a recommendation from his friends in & near Boston for a Situation in the marine or military hospitals which Shall not seperate him from his family. The cause of his dismission from Office by Mr Madison  must be noticed in his recommendation, and its truth falsehood exposed if possible. I am wholly ignorant of it.
Our excellent friend Mr Clymer is Still living, but a day or two it is expected will close the Scenes of his useful life. In One of my Visits to him in the early stage of his disease, he put a few lines of poetry into my hands of Which the following is a copy.
“At first the Affair of Chesapeake
Full sorely did our Yankees pique.
For then the honor of the nation,
Stood foremost in their estimation;
Indeed so valued they, that prize.
Ere Codfish to’t they’d Sacrifice.
But as things Often change About,
And patriotism may wear out.
So let them now put both in Scale,
And see which of them would prevail.
I dare to say, tho’ Strange it Seem
Codfish makes honor kick the beam.”
Our Legislature appointed a Committee to examine  Redheiffers perpetually moving machine. Yesterday was appointed by him for that purpose. But he declined submitting it to their inspection. This event, with many Others have opened the eyes of our Citizens, and Mr R is now generally beleived to be an imposter. All the imitations of his Machine made as to in the number fire of Wheels, proportion, fire or fire have by several ingenious Mechanics have failed of exhibiting the phænominon of Self Motion.
Capt: Wm Jones who succeeds P Hamilton as Secretary of the Navy is up to the patriot of Quincy in his zeal to extend, protect, and properly employ a Navy. He has is a man of a bold and original mind, And well drilled for his Office by a practical education as a naval Officer in the revolutionary War, and as a Sea Captain and merchant ever since the War. A letter from you I am sure would animate him to carry his plans for rendering the United states a Naval power into execution.
But one of the physicians of Philada, formerly my pupil, has at last mentioned my late publication to me. This fact enhances my obligations to your female friends and to your medical neighbour for the honor they have done me in reading it. I live in a Beehive & save myself from being Stung to death, only be being as passive and apparently as lifeless as an old dead tree.
Adieu! from Dear Sir yours / truly
Benjn: Rush


Title: To John Adams from Joseph Bradley Varnum, 22 January 1813
From: Varnum, Joseph Bradley
To: Adams, John

Honoured Sir,
Washington January 22. 1813

I have received your Letter of the 5th. Instant, and I feel a Great degree of Consolation in learning, that you are Gratified with the late proceedings of Congress, in their decision for Building Ships of War. However a System of that kind might be considered impolitic in time of peace, and while Our Country were determined to Suffer the most Egregious wrongs, reather than repel them by force, now in time of a Just War, necessarily entered into for the defence of Our Just Rights, I think that the Measure must be Aplauded by all other Attached to the Interest of Commerce, and of their Country’s Rights.—
I have never entertained but one opinion in regard to the duty of the Government to defend our Commercial, as well as our Agricultural and Manufacturing Rights.—It has always seemed to me, that the Supreme Governor of the Universe, had in his Infinite wisdom marked Out this Country as peculiarly fitted to become a great Commercial, as well as a great Agricultural and Manufacturing Nation: the Means for Effecting these Objects have been liberally portioned out to us, and if we will not improve the Talents put into Our hands, can we Expect any thing better, than seeing them taken from Us, and put into the hands of others?—Commerce is by no means confined in its’ Beneficial opperation to the Merchant alone; the atgriculturalist and the mechanics are proportionate Sharers of the profits and the conveniences derived from it: I have long felt the correctness of this Idea:—If this Sentiment be correct, why is it that so many of Our Citizens are so much Opposed to a War, commenced alone for the defence of Commerce, and the protection of those Men who are necessary to carry it on? And is it not Still more wonderful, that so many in our Seaport Towns, who it would seem are the nearest Allied to the Benefits of Commerce, are doing every thing in their power to parallize the Measures of the Government in their measures for carrying on the War? and Are they not taking Ground the best calculated to porlong the war, or Effect, a disgraceful and ruinous termination of it? Are the people of this favoured, this highly favoured Nation, So lost to the Interest, of the present, and future Generations? Have we those among us who Justly merit the Reproaches heaped upon the Athinneans by Demosthenes? Have we the Pentioners of Phillip in Our Councils, or in Our Borders? Be all this as it may, thrust in God we are not very nigh that Inextricable Gulf, into which the Grecians were basely Betrayed by their Own Citizens. But a Strict Adherence to duty, and a tenacious passeverence in defence of our Righs, Under the auspecies of divine Providence, alone can Save us.
I am very Respectfully Sir / Your Obdt. Servt.
J. B. Varnum


Title: From John Adams to François Adriaan Van der Kemp, 23 January 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan

Dear Sir
Quincy Jan. 23. 1813

Your favour of Dec. 7 is not lost nor forgotten.
Oh! that my Situation in Life would permit me to undertake a Pilgrimage to Oldenbarneveldt! What a fervent Votary would I be, at the Shrine of Madonna? How would I delight in the Gardens of Mappa! And how would I Stop, going and returning, at Smiths Valley.
I have Consulato del mare, with a translation in Dutch. I have Machiavels Works in English, containing his Comedies &c
I am “a Christian,” and “a Theologian”, but not a Churchman; not an Ecclesiastic; not a Priest, Parson or Clergyman. You Surely can See these distinctions, more accurate that I can.
Our eternal Salvation from, unquenchable and never consuming Fire, does not depend on our belief of the Authenticity of “Homer, Xenophon and Livy.” Why have the most important Parts of Livy, Tacitus, Aristotle &c been destroyed? Why have the most important Work of Cicero, his Discourses on Government, been annihilated? &c &c &c without end? I can conceive of no plausible Answer to these questions, but this a conspiracy between Roman Catholick Divines and Roman Imperial Politicians, have burned every Thing in Pagan and Christian Antiquity which Stood in the Way of their Views of Spiritual and temporal Despotism. Why did Gelasius burn fifty Gospels at once?
The eternal Salvation of your immortal Soul, does not depend on your Faith in the Authenticity of the inspired Cannon of Aristotle, Plato, Philo, Josephus Livy, Suetonius or Plutark or Dionisius Hallicarnassensis.
I assert the divine right and the sacred duty, of private individual Judgment, in matters of and deny all human Authority in matters of Faith. I therefore was inquisitive, concerning Erastus. He published “Des Theses contre l’excommunication, et L’autorité des Consistoires. Amsterdam 1649 in 8o. . . . I have also read of this Thomas Erastus “Il est a présent plus celebre, par ses Theses de l’excommunication qu’il rejette entierement, que par ses livres de Medicine. Plusieurs ont entrepris de les refutier, et particulierement, Henri Hammond dans son Livre, du pouvoir des Clefs, qui est dans le 2. Tome de ses oeuvrages Angloises. Pantaleon, Prosop. Melchior Adam, in vit. Germ. Medic. De Thou. Hist. sui temp. Gesner Bibl. Van der Linden, de Scrip. Med. &c
I also read that there was a Sect of Erastians in England (Hereticks undoubtedly) thus named from Their Master Thomas Erastus who denied that the Church had the power to excommunicate. They made a Faction in 1647. Salmonet, Histoire de troubles de La Grande Bretagne.
Now, I know of no divine Authority, for Lords Parson, Lords Bretheren, Lords Councils, Lords Synods, Lords Associations, Lords Consociations or Lords General Assemblies, any more than in Lords Bishops, Lords Cardinals or Lords Kings, or Gods Popes, to deliver a man over to Satan to be buffetted, than there is in a A Quincy, A Braintree or a Randolph Town Meeting. I can find no Sufficient foundation for the distinction between The Ecclesia which is called Church, and The Ecclesia which is called a Congregation.. . . Can You?
Must a Man possess a Library equal to that mentioned by St. Luke, which he says the whole World could not contain, and live to the Age of Methusalem before he could read half of it before he can work out his Salvation with Fear and trembling?
I find in the Old Testament and especially in the New, internal Evidence of a Philosophy, a Morality and a Polity, which my head and heart Embraces, for its equity Humanity and Benevolence. This is my Religion.
Oh! that I had such a Friend near me, as your Friend Mappa, or yourself!
Adieu. I am very busy and very lazy, and very frivolous and very superficial.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to John Langdon, 24 January 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Langdon, John

Dear Sir
Quincy January 24. 1813

I feel an irresistible propensity to compare notes with you, in order to ascertain, whether your memory and mine coincide, in the recollection of the circumstances of a particular Transaction in the History of this Country.
As it lies in my mind, Captain John Manly applied to General Washington in Cambridge in 1775, informed him that British Transports and Merchant Ships were frequently passing and repassing unarmed, and asked leave to put a few Guns on board a Vessel to cruise for them. Washington, either Shrinking from the boldness of the enterprize, or doubting his Authority, prudently transmitted the information to Congress in a Letter. When the Letter was read many members Seemed much Surprized: but a motion was made and seconded to commit it to a Special Committee. Opposition was made to this motion and a debate ensued; but the motion prevailed by a Small Majority. The committee appointed were John Langdon, Silas Deane and John Adams. We met and at once agreed to report a resolution authorizing General Washington to fitt and arm one or more Vessells for the purpose. A more animated  Opposition and debate arose upon this report but the Resolution was carried by a Small Majority. Under the Authority of this Resolution Washington fitted out Manley, who soon brought in Several Prizes, the most important of which was that Transport loaded with Soldiers, Arms, Ammunition, and that immortal Mortar, which was called the Congress and finally drove the British Army out of Boston and their Fleet out of the harbour. This Splendid Success inspired new Courage into Congress. They appointed a new Committee consisting of Yourself, Governor Hopkins, Richard Henry Lee, Mr Gadsden and me to purchase Arm equip Officer and Man Ships. We met every Night, and in a Short Time had The Alfred, Columbus, Cabbots Andrew Doria Providence &c at Sea under Commodore Hopkins. The Naval Enterprize of Congress increased fast. They Soon appointed a Commitee of One from each State of whom you was one and ordered Twelve Frigates to be built.
My Recollection has been excited by late Information from Philadelphia that Paul Jones has written in his Journal “My hand first hoisted The American Flagg” and that Captain Barry used to Say that “the first British Flagg Struck to him” Both these vain Boasts, I know to be false, and as You know them to be So; I wish to have your Testimony to corroborate mine.
It is not decent nor just, that those emigrant Foreigners of the South Should falsely arrogate to themselves merit that belongs to New England Sailors Officers and Men.
Wishing you a healthy pleasant Year I remain / your old Friend

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Waterhouse, 25 January 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Waterhouse, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Quincy January 25 1813

I will join with Vice President Gerry and Lt. Governor Gray in any reasonable representation. But higher interests than yours or mine are at stake. What is your family & mine & twenty others to eight Million of people? How much less to mankind?
The salvation of both, seems to be staked both by republicans and federalists, upon the opinion of Washington. the Boston junto of republicans appeal to Washington as their infallible Guide. The Boston junto of Federalists appeal as an infallible oracle. Does either faction believe it has fathomed the character of the American Nation? the true, the real people of both parties laugh in their sleeves, at the adroitness of their Leaders with which they attempt to impose on the most ignorant and most vicious of their followers. Yet if you converse with the most sottish of these,  in their tavern haunts and dram shops, or grog shops they will soon convinse you, tho they huzza at the Whistle of their boatswain yet that they know better.
Good God! does the importance & necesity of this union depend on the knowledge, the information, the judgement of Washington? Why donot both parties go farther back,  and if they must have the authority of names, appeal to the true names Jay, Madison & Hamilton. these men in the federalists, demonstrated the importance & necessity of the union, and the ruin of division, in greater detail, and with stronger reasons. Washingtons legacy, composed by Jay, and Hamilton, was but a very concise abridgement of their and Madisons Federalist.
Both parties slip, the cables, and cut away the Anchors of truth, in the storm and let the ship loose to the mercy of Winds and waves. this is strictly confidential from idem.

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from François Adriaan Van der Kemp, 25 January 1813
From: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan
To: Adams, John

Mÿ dear and respected Sir!
Oldenbarneveld. 25 Jan: 1813.

Having at length finished mÿ Researches on Several points in Nat. Hist. in the theories of Mess. Buffon and Daubenton—which have been extended to 270 Pag. in 4th. and a are readÿ for the press, if I can find a printer and a corrector of the Language, of which I have little prospect—and being free of head-ache—I must again address you with a few lines, in the flattering hope, that they Shall as usual meet a kind reception. In this I can not well be mistaken, if you and your dear familÿ continue to enjoy so much health and prospertÿ, as would be Stowed upon you, if mÿ prayers are availing.
If your health remains in unison with the Soundness of your memorÿ, then it can last a long while, befor it decays. In your last, you mentioned, that you adviced me, before I embarked for America, to beware of religious prejudices—and that I reproached you in my remarks upon your defence, with forgetting your own precepts—yet, you add—I have forgotten them again, and am becoming the most renowned Heretic and Schismatic in America, now my remarks were I believe written in the latter part of last centurÿ, and your monitory letter—London 1788—The facts are correctly Stated—but you must permit to contest you the conclusion—At least, I do not know to have meddled with anÿ religious discussions—excepting that triffling wreath—to castigate mr. Dow—and the Sketches of Calvin and Servetus—of which the guilt must lay at the Door of Dr Morse, who Spurred me first to that undertaking, although I afterwards maÿ have handled the Subject too roughlÿ for his more delicate feelings—and it is not mÿ fault, if thro your great partiality I became known to Buckminster and others—no—muneris hoc tui est.
I know no better atonement—than that one of the Orthodox clergÿ corrects mÿ researches—theÿ are against the infidel School, and then—you know—it is not usual to the cloath to be over scrupulously nice—if it is allways correct.
You recollect that I mentioned in these researches mÿ conjecture that our ears were naturally moveable. Since that time, I met with more than one example, and I Should not be Surprised, if among the ancient Romans, whose ears in their infancy were not wrapt in caps and bandages, it was generallÿ common—So their language becomes more intelligible—Arrige aivres Pamphile! Thrent—Proh Dii immortales mihi hic Suo Sermone arrescit aures. Plaut.
Tum pietate gravem ac meritis Si forte Verim quem
conspexere—Silent—arrectis que auribus astant.
If your grand-daughter reads mÿ letters too—though I try to write correctlÿ—as long I can reflect upon it—She must be better pleased with a known picture equal to that of Virgil—
With head upraised and look intent
and eÿe, and ear attentive bent,
and locks flung back, and lips apart.
It Seems a man could learn drawing from Simular descriptions. But I ought to Set aside those triffles—when I address Quincy’s Patriarch—well then—Praÿ instruct me—what are colours? you have time and wealth to make the experiments—and what you know, you will impart to me—Tingey’s conjecture’s made me consider this Subject—I begin in reality to doubt—if colours exists more in the Sun-rays—than theÿ do in the objects—Separate first—the doubtful—and Long repaled primarÿ colours—discriminate the heat making rays from the light giving—multiply your prisma’s—call a prismatic rod to your aid—to Separate them one from another—and the first resolve maÿ-be—there are no colours at all—there remain—heat and light making raÿs—all to appearance—white. Is it to be presumed—that Newton exhausted the Subject—because he made it known—and whÿ maÿ John Adams in his dignified retirement become as useful and throw as much light upon this Subject—as he did on civil goverment
Stridentibus Licet diabolis—
There is here a great rage for Russian Stoves—Gentry—mechanics—farmers—Squatters Shall ere long have thus Russian Stoves. I presume, it is an excellent invention—owing—I conjecture—its introduction here to Quincy Adams. What I Should wish to know. Is it usefulness so great? what is the prize about of its construction in a Small cottage of one Story and a half? If it is not to high—I might be tempted, to procure this comfort to mÿ wife and daughter.
If writing is too difficult, Send me onlÿ everÿ three months a bellet from one of your grand children—Grand-papa is well—Recommend me to the remembrance of your Ladÿ—you cannot, I know, discontinue your kindness towards me—I remain with high and affectionate regard / Dear and respected Sir! / Your obliged frend!
Fr. Adr. vanderkemp


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Rush, 26 January 1813
From: Rush, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir,
Philadelphia Jany 26th: 1813.

I return you Col Smiths & Dr Waterhouse’s letters The former is replete with good Sense. Alas! the evils of party Spirit! It is a greater Curse to our country than our War with Great Britain. It sacrifices every to itself. Unless appointements are made hereafter with a more wise and impartial hand, our Union cannot last. I am afraid the app situation in the medical department of the Army contemplated for Dr Waterhouse cannot be obtained for him. Strong recommendations are now before the President of another person high in reputation for talents & Skill, particularly in Surgery. nothing can be done by the President in this business for any one until an act of Congress is passed for creating such a situtation. Should the Act of Congress embrace two such offices (as it ought) viz a surgeon and physician general, Dr W: may perhaps be aided by his friends to obtain the latter of them.
Our excellent friend Mr Clymer is no more. Few more disinterested patriots ever lived or died. He was moreover an enlightened politician, and free of all prejudice except againts ignorance, Vice and folly in in the conduct of parties. I shall long deplore the loss of his friendship & of his delightful conversation, at all times instructing & pleasing, from the originality of his ideas, and or the new dress he gave to such as were common. In One of my interviews with him about two months ago, he lamented remarked that all the nations in the World now at War professed to be Christians, and added that while they were sending missionaries among the Hea pagans to convert them to Christianity, he wished the pagans would in return send missionaries to the Christian  nations to convert them to the laws and practice of the Arts of peace.
Of the members of Congress who subscribed the declaration of Independance nine only are now living. J Langdon of Massachusetts New Hampshire—Paine, Gerry & yourself in Massachusetts—Floyd in New York—Rush in Pennsylvania—McKean of Delaware—Johnson of Maryland, and Jefferson of Virginia. All of them are above 70 except Mr Gerry and myself. When you see Mr Gerry tell him how much is respected and esteemed by his & your Old revolutionary friend
Benjn: Rush
PS: I have taken the liberty of sending an extract from that part of your letter which relates to the destiny of our navy as predicted by Frenchmen, to Capt: Jones in order to encourage & animate him in his present naval enterprises & labors.


Title: To John Adams from John Langdon, 27 January 1813
From: Langdon, John
To: Adams, John

Respected Sr.
Portsmouth Jany 27th. 1813

I had the honor of receiving, by the last Mail, your letter of the 24th. instant, by which I see your time, is taken up, and your mind continually on the Stretch, for the support and honor of our beloved Country. you request me to call to mind “the circumstances of a particular Transaction in the History of this Country”, to which I answer; That upon reading your correct statement, of the proceedings of Congress on our Naval matters, the appointment of Committees , of which we were a part, the struggle we had to begin our little Navy, and the opposition, that was made by many Members of Congress; brings to my recollection the circumstance, that took place in 1775 in all which, as far as I can recollect, I most perfectly coincide with you. The appointment of Manly and his successes must be well known thro’ out the United States. As to Paul Jones, if my memory serves me) pretending to say that “his hand first hoisted the American Flagg” and Capt. Barry the first British Flagg Stuck to him are both unfounded, as it is impressed on my mind that many Prises were bro’t into the New England States before their names were mentioned—
I am Dr. Sr. always happy to hear from you, that you are in good health, and able still to continue your preeminent services to your Country—Mrs. Langdon, who I am sorry to say has been very unwell for some time past, Joins me in our most sincere respect, to yourself and your Good Lady who we have in greatful remembrance.
That your last days may be your best and happiest is wish of your old friend / and Hbl. Servt
John Langdon


Title: From John Adams to Elbridge Gerry, 28 January 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Gerry, Elbridge

                            Dear Sir
                            Quincy Jan. 28. 1813

                        Vive la bagatelle.How shall we cure that distemper of the Mind State Vanity? You know to what a degree the ancient dominion was infected with it, and how many Sacrifices We have been obliged to make to it. You remember, how Pensilvania had it. “Pensilvania was first in Arts and Arms,”! “Philadelphia was the heart of the Union.” So said George Ross. Dr Lyman Hall of Georgia, readily acknowledged, that She was the heart; because We know that “the heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.” Now New York is to be placed at the head. Our poor old tame good natured Pussey Massachusetts, who has the distemper in her heart, deeper than any of them, has been obliged to trim, and to flatter, to dissimulate and Simulate, in plain English as Governor Hopkins once Said or rather was accused of saying to “coax, lie, and flatter, in order to carry her Points” and Save herself from Perdition. Her distemper however, Seems to be now rising, and approaching to the delirium of a Fever. These are objects too great for my Genius. I dare not rise to objects, greater than Ensigns, Midshipmen, Pursers or Deputy Quarter Masters.My present Topick is Smaller than either. Philadelphia is now boasting, that Paul Jones, has asserted in his Journal, that “This hand hoisted the first American Flagg”! And Captain Barry has asserted that “the first British Flagg was Struck to him.”Now, I assert that the first American Flagg was hoisted by John Manley, and the first British Flagg was Struck to him. You were not in Congress in 1775, but you was in the State Congress and must have known the History of Manley’s Capture of that Transport which contained that Mortar, which afterwards on Dorchester Height, drove the English Army from Boston and Navy from the Harbour.I pray you Sir, to give me your Recollections upon this Subject. I wish to know the Number of Transports & Merchant Ships, and their Names &c captured by Manley, or any of his associates in 1775 and 1776.As your time and Thoughts must be employed upon Subjects of much greater moment, I hope you will not give yourself any trouble about this little Thing. Your first Recollections will be Sufficient.With cordial Salutations to your Firesides and fervent Prayers for the Success of your publick Energies I am your old Friend

                            John Adams


Title: From John Adams to James Madison, 31 January 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Quincy January 31st. 1813

I have subscribed with Mr Gray and others a recommendation of Hendrick W Gordon Esquire a copy of which is enclosed. As he requests a separate Certificate, I enclose his letter and can sincerely say that from an acquaintance with him, of several years, I believe that what is said of him, in the Certificate, and in his letter, to be no more than he deserves; He is a civil, well bred man, capable industrious, and faithful in business, I have the honour to be very respectfully Sir your most obedient Servant
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to James Madison, 2 February 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Quincy February 2nd. 1813

I am very apprehensive that the liberties I so frequently take of writing to you will appear importunate if not impertinent But I beg it may be fully understood that none of my letters are to be answered; and  that I shall perfectly acquiesce in your decisions well knowing the multiplicity of Candidates, the difficulty of making the selections & that the President is the only ultimate and rightful judge.
There is one gentleman whose Character and situation lies with much weight on my mind.
I am constrained to acknowledge, tho with great reluctance that a great majority of all the literary corporations in this state have been in systematic opposition for the last twelve years to the national administration. And I must add that they have countenanced measures, in some of our Seaport towns, and in the Legislature that have appeared to me intemperate and unwise. Dr Benjamin Waterhouse has never united with them and this conduct has brought upon him resentments and oppositions which have ended in his deprivation of his employment which he has held for thirty years with reputation Of his literary character, which has been long known and established in Europe, and America, it would be idle in me to speak. I have known him more than thirty years and have never seen a stain upon his moral character I scarcely know a more benevolent or exemplary character. Though I am not minutely acquainted with the circumstances which has occasioned his removal from an office under the U.S. I have reason to beleive that his error proceeded from his ardent zeal to place the hospital in the best possible order: without any intention of deviating from the strict line of integrity. It is perhaps improper to mention anything in particular. If it is I beg your pardon for suggesting that if Congress should establish an office of Surgeon general and another of physician general and I know it to be the opinion of the best judges that both ought to be established; perhaps Waterhouse might fill that of Physician General to advantage. I mean not however to recommend him, for any particular employment: but if there should be any opening adequate to his age experience and character in my opinion, his professional, moral, literary and political Character is such as to give a fair claim for his being a Candidate. With great respect I have the honour to be Sir your most Obedient Servant
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Francis Dana, 3 February 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Dana, Francis

Dear Sir
Quincy Feby. 3d. 1813.

I thank you, for with all my heart for your Christmas Oration, which I have read with and reread with increased pleasure loving the philanthropic heart which dictated it not less than admiring the ingenious head which composed it.
With any man who denies the Legitimacy of our Revolutionary War, or my Quasi War with France or Mr. Madison’s War with England, I will not dispute because there can be no conformity, or analogy, or sympathy between his understanding and mine—I should despair of convincing him, and am sure he never would convince me—
A merciful Man is merciful to his Beast and to all Beasts—It is very desireable that all Wolves, Bears, Tygers, Panthers and Lyons should be tamed civilized and harnessed—It would not however be adviseable to instill into the Minds of all Mankind conscientious scruples about the Carefulness of defending ourselves against their ferocity by Gun Drum Trumpet Blunderbuss and Thunder—
Pray conceal this from every one of your benevolent Pacific Fraternity.—If it should get wind, there would infallibly follow a sentence of Excommunication for Misanthropy against your Friend
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Rush, 3 February 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Rush, Benjamin

Dr Sir
Quincy Feb 3d 1813

I congratulate you, & your state and our Nation on the Acquisition of such a secretary of the Navy as you represent Sir honourable William Jones to be. I shall certainly write him a letter, before long; for I am recommender general of Midshipman & Pursers & Ensigns. I have not dared as yet to rise to a Lieutenant in Navy or Army. Talk not to me of dignity. Nothing can be more ridiculous and contemptible than the dignity of a President or a Governor, whom every puppy in the streets, & every profligate scribbler in a prostituted Newspaper can call a cheat a Lyar, a scoundrel a Villian a Knave & an Imposter when he pleases with impunity.
However I hope Pennsylvania, will no longer complain that they have not their share of power. You have the secretary of the treasury; the secretary of War, the secretary of the Navy & the Controuler of the Treasury, and I presume will soon have The Surgeon and physician General of the Aparmy. And how many officers of the Navy and Army? Do you not see that Pennsylvania is to be pitted against N York and who can blame it
I know your prudence too well; not to know that you will not answer these questions, & I approve of that Prudence.—Feathers & straws shew which way the wind blowes, such beings as Jones & Barry sett up pretensions! & such pretensions are abetted & trumpetted by state Pride—I enclose you a letter from Governor Langdon, which you will be so good as to return to me, as you have those of Smith and Waterhouse by the next Post.
Have you read Waterhouses botanist? His independent Whig or any other of his writings how these things all go by nation, by soil, by climate, by country, by state, by ity, by Party! let me illustrate, by a familiar example. had you been born in Scotland composed and published your medical works there & all your other Writings, Mutatis Mutandis, you would have been trumpetted throughout all Europe & celebrated in all Languages as a greater Man than Sir John Sinclair or Walter Scott or Burns the other Poet nay as a more useful Author than Hume or Robertson. Had Waterhouse been born, educated studied, wrote & published in Philadelphia, he would have been a rival of Dr Rush.
6 of the remaining nine subscribers of the declaration of independence will soon take their flight after Clymer. Jefferson Gerry & Rush, have yet probably a longer run. Jefferson is as tough as a lignum Vitæ Knot. He rides journeys on horseback. I have, within a few days a Letter from him, a very obliging one, written with all the precision of his best years not one symptom of decay or decline can I discern in it.
Adieu
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to François Adriaan Van der Kemp, 5 February 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan

Dear Sir
Quincy Feb. 5. 1813.

I want to see, that “triffling wreath” the Castigation of Mr Dow.” and the “sketches of Calvin and servetus.” Dr Morse, I suspect, must think you, no Friend to the Peace and Order of the Churches.! No Orthodox Clergy will correct you. No! No! They will call you Deist! perhaps Atheist! certainly No Christian! And such Billingsgate, will be as good a refutation as the Politicians have given me by calling me a Monarchist, and an Englishman and a Scotchman; and a Jacobin and a Frenchman, a Democrat and an Apostate; for with all these elegant epithets have they decorated me. Stridentibus Diabolis, omnibus.
Professor Pearson, at the Inauguration of Professor Peck said “Oratio in linguâ vernaculâ, arrectis Auribus expectatur.”
I hope you have learned that your Charles Elliot is alive and well: and has bought Buckminsters Library.
You ask me “what are Colours”? A New Englandman, you must know, always answers a question, by asking another. Unadulterated Novanglus alias Yankee as I am; I ask what is light? And as a genuine Yankee, commonly puts half a dozen questions, in answer to one, I demand, What are the “Suns rays”? What is Light? What is Heat? What is cold? Have you read John Lock? Bishop Berckley? Here I might Stop, for I have put my half dozen: but as I have an Ambition to excell, my Countrymen I will put, one more than ordinary, Have you read David Hume? There! You have now Seven questions for your one.
Is “time and Wealth, to make Experiments”!!! I am astonished that you know so little of your Friend of thirty years or so. you might as rationally write to the Bones of Washington in their Vault at Mount Vernon “Dear, venerable Relicks, you have Wealth and Leisure to make Experiments, upon Light and Colours, heat and cold!”
Of Newton, with profound Reverence I deem, and so I do, of Barrow his Predecessor and Preceptor. But what subjects, moral or Philosophical is are exhausted? A few mathematical Problems and Theorems have been exhausted,  because demonstrated. Newton himself, his Character Works and History, are to this hour, a Mystery unriddled to the World. Price Priestly, Jebb. Kippis and others told me that there were then in being, one hundred and Fifty Manuscripts of Sir Isaac, which have never been published; all in the Possession of a Noble Family in England who would never permit them to be printed. Why is this? Because Newton was a Heretick, and Schismatic as bad as you are.
We glory in our American Liberty of the Press. But what is it? Neither you, nor I, could find one Editor, or Printer, who would publish, your Sentiments or mine, on Religion or Government, at his own risque. We must advance every Doit of the expence; and then he would not dare to let his name be known. Is there a conspiracy of Religion Government Learning and Science against Human Nature?
I am not Scientific nor learned in Stoves nor Chimnies. Franklin Rumford, and J. Q. A. I honour for their attention to my Comfort but never pretended to study either. They may be all œconomical, but I would not Surrender the beauty, vivacity and Light handsom blaze for all this dull heat. I believe in Rumford more than either of the others: but no Body dares execute his Theory in Perfection.
Now again for Erastus. I hinted in my last that there had been a sect of Erastians, in England, at the time of Oliver Cromwell. No less than John Milton and James Harrington, Men, not much inferiour to Isaac Newton, I believe were of that heretical and Schismatic Sect. Dr Johnson says in his Life of Milton, that thoough he was a firm Believer in the Christian Religion, he never belonged to any Church, never communicated with any Church. Harrington in his writings sufficiently shews that he was no advocate for Churches.
To make this Letter, a perfect Higgledy Piggledy, I will now return to the light.
The word, Light, Signifies a simple Idea, a simple sensation; a simple apprehension; a simple Perception, of Animal Minds, received, caused, excited, through the Eye, by some cause. What is that cause? The sun; a Candle; a flame of Fire? But what is the Sun? what a Flame?
The word heat is another, a sensation. caused by what? Cold is another. What is the cause? I wish wh well to all who are engaged in these virtuous and meritorious Speculations and experiments. but neither my Nerves, Senses or Reason can give them any assistance.
I am as for thirty two or three years
John AdamsCan you tell me any Thing about Semter? or Michaelis?
Have you ever read Xenophon upon Democracy? If you have not, I advise you to read him in Greek; not in any Translation, latin french or English. He pretends not to dispute the wisdom of The Athenians in establishing a Democracy: but having established it he is clear and possitive that they are right in choosing the Worst Citizens for their Rulers, as they did from year to year: because none but the Worst Citizens could possibly execute the Trust or give Satisfaction to their Electors.
You talk of my Wealth.! you must have been told, and believed extravagant Lies. . . . I have given to John William Willink of Amsterdam, four times more Money than I and all my sons Daughters, and grand Children are worth in the World. Yet the son of that good Friend would not oblige me so much as to take a Family dinner with me. Sic transit Gloria Mundi!


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Rush, 8 February 1813
From: Rush, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

My dear Sir
Philada Feby: 8th: 1813

It was wholly unnecessary to bring forward the respectable testimony of Mr Langdon in order to rectify the mistake into which Capt Barrys communication & Capt P Jones, journal had led me. You do me great injustice in supposing I possess a single Pennsylvania, or anti new England prejudice.—I know my native state too well. It is a great exchange filled with men of all nations who feel no Attachments to each other, from the absence of the ties of birth, education & Religion, and who from that Circumstance are incapable of a state Character. To From that Small number of our citizens with  whom ancient English blood, and the principles of our ancestors ought to have united me, my Whig principles and conduct have wholly seperated me. Had it not been for what are called new Comers and Strangers, I Could not have retained my standing in Philada:—with a few exceptions, they have been my most Steady personal & professional friends. Before the Revolution, we had two Aristocracies in our city, the friends, and the officers of the Proprietary government. For more than 60 years, they were enemies to each Other, but the Revolution united them. They are now all powerful in all our monied institutions except one, in our library, hospital and University, and possess universal professional, mercantile, maritime & mechanical patronage.  The principles which produced their Union, must necessarily lead them to expatriate a man who had subscribed the declaration of Independance. In the City of London, or Constantinople, I Should not feel myself more a foreigner than I do, in the City of Philadelphia. I do not mention these facts as matters of complaints, but to convince you how little disposed I am to Absolve my Pennsylvania fellow-Citizens from the charges you have made against them.  There have been times when I have been ready to say of what my native state what Dr Swift said of Ireland “I am not of this Vile Country,” and with the Grecian General “Ossa mea non habebis.” but these times have been transient in their duration; and the hectic produced by them, has Soon passed  away. My habitual feelings to my parent state dispose me to say to it with Father Paul “Esto, esto perpetua.”
Your remarks upon Redheffers machine pleased and divert my family.
The Share which Pennsylvania now holds of the executive power of the general government is calculated as you have supposed to preserve her Colonial Dependance upon the  rulers of our Country and to ensure her loyalty for years to come.
Dr. Waterhouse’s situation in Philada with his Whig principles would have been worse than mine, for he has more Whig fire to provoke hostility than I ever possessed. Even his more splendid talents would not have placed him in a higher rank in his profession than he now occupies. I have read and admired his Botanist. I hope your influence will procure Something for him from Washington. I shall heartily Cooperate with you.
Alas! Another Defeat! and Another source of distress to our Country! Have you read the corrected edition of Mr Quincy’s speech? It is a masterly performance. I subscribe to every thing he has said of the folly, madness & Cruelty of the Canada War.
Adieu! ever-yrs
Benja: Rush
PS We have lately heard from our son Ben. He narrowly escaped Capture by the Algerines in his Voyage   from Smyrna. He  was to Sail from Cadiz to the United States in January.


Title: From John Adams to Joseph Bradley Varnum, 9 February 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Varnum, Joseph Bradley

Respected Sir
Quincy Feb 9 1813

With much pleasure have I read your favour of January 23d.
I have thought that Nature, which has given to the Ant & the Bee to the wild geese & the storks, as well as to most other Animals in certain foresight necessary for their preservation; & to men a more extensive circumspection & sagacity: should have dictated to this nation, a more careful & provident preparation for National defence by sea & Land; a more vigorous fortification of the frontiers, & a more efficacious naval power on the Lakes as well as on the ocean.
When the insults, injuries & pretensions of France became intolerable, without degradation in the scale of Nations, & indeed in the scale of Being; I did all in my Power to arouse & animate America to war. When the insults, injuries & pretensions of Gr Britain became intolerable, as they did six years ago by her despotic blockades, orders in council, and above all by her proclamation for impressing seamen I was for an immediate declaration of War against G B. My opinions & conduct in both cases were founded on the same immutable Principles—These retrospective reflections are, however, out of season and of little use. The questions now is, What is to be done?
You very properly ask “Why is it, that so many of our Citizens are so much opposed to the War”? I have no power to answer this question, or any of the series of Judicious inquiries that follow it, but by asking questions in my train turn; why were so many of our citizens opposed to the War in 1775, & to all our claims and assertions of our rights that proceeded it & shewed it to be just & proved it to be necessary? Why was there such an obstinate & persevering an opposition in congress, of almost half its members in 1776 &c to our expedition into Canada, Quebec & all, had infallibly been , had not the measures of government & the operations of the Army, been paralised by Opposition in congress. A Resolution to send men, money, arms, ammunition, Cloathing, provisions or medicines without opposition & interminable debate, could not be carried without imperious demand of the question, and then only by a very small majority. The same principles; the same feelings; the same interests or views of interest, prevail now as then; & from various causes, have obtained a firmer establishment in our sea port towns than they had then. Why is it that so many of our wise men are for a War with France & her allies a peace with Gr Britain at almost any rate, & a relyance on the British navy for protection? You may judge what share the Banks and funds aided by other corporations, & original & hereditary tory feelings & news have had in subjecting the seaport towns. It is most certain they “are taking ground the best calculated to prolong the war; or affect a disgraceful & ruinous termination  of it.” I do not yet believe that “this nation is so lost to the interest of the present or future generations.” That we have many Henry’s V carpenters within our Borders that we have many newspapers & pamphlets supported by foreign subscriptions I have no doubt. that we have any pensioners in our public councils I have as yet an insuperable aversion to believe. even this however is not impossible. Mercantile credit may in many instances have great influence. Lawyers & physicians fees may be sometimes adroitly managed. Gamblers may be skillfully permitted to win a large bet, many of the clergy, for want of better information have been taught to believe that the English, Scotch, Irish are pious & the french impious; that Napoleon is ambitious of universal empire, & that George the third & George the fourth are not. The twistings and turnings of the opposition now are rather exceed those of the opposition in 1798 1799 & 1800 I hope we shall one day see upright downright, straight forward and consistent conduct.—mean time, which I believe will be a long time, I shall remain with much respect your humble servant

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Elbridge Gerry, 9 February 1813
From: Gerry, Elbridge
To: Adams, John

My dear Sir
Cambridge 9th Feby 1813

I have deferred an answer to the letter, which you did me the honor of addressing on the 28th of Jany, ’till I could see Capt John Delman of Marblehead; who has refreshed my memory with the following statement, which he made in a short interview, as the facts then were presented to his recollection.
“That in the fall of the year 1775, General Washington commissioned Nicolas Broughton & himself, both living in Marblehead, the former as Commodore of the two Schooners, one mounting six 4 pound cannon & manned by seventy seamen, & the other of less force, & having but sixty five men.—The Commodore hoisted his broad pendant on board the former, & Capt Delman commanded the latter. These vessels were ordered to the river St Lawrence to intercept a vessel loaded with ammunition, & bound to Quebec. But missing her, they took ten other vessels belonging to british subjects, & also from the Island of St John, a quantity of stores & Governor Wright; all of which were released, as we had waged a ministerial war, & not one against our most gracious Sovereign, or the British Nation.” This reminds me of an anecdote often told by Governor Sullivan, of an act, which was prepared by him & myself in the lobby of the Watertown meeting house, where at that time the provincial Congress held their Session; the lobby being in a small apartment with a window, under the Belfrey, & the act, being to authorize privateering. The Governor (Sullivan) stated, that he agreed to draw the act, on condition, that I should prepare the preamble; & that this was grounded on the royal Charter of the Province, which authorized us to levy war against the common Enemy of both Countries. Such we considered the British administration, with the ships of war & armies which it employed against us; & we accordingly, as loyal subjects used all the powers granted us by the charter, to capture or destroy them. The Governor was correct in his statement, & the act with the preamble appeared in the London Magazine, as a political curiosity.—Captain Delman also recollected, “that Commodore was fitted out about that period, & took several prizes; that Capt Burke; & the commander of another Vessel, all of whom as he supposed were commissioned by General Washington, took a transport after a smart engagement, with Colo Campbell & military stores &c; early in 1776, & brot her into Boston. The Captain of this transport was decoyed by a british Flag, hoisted by americans below the Castle.”
I think that the files of our Newspapers, will present, at that period, the facts wanted, in their chronological order.
“Vive la Bagatelle,” parceqú elle ne peut pas vivre longtems.
“State pride” is like the bite of the Tarantula, which can only be cured by dancing to the musick which charm it.
I have a general remembrance of, the important events of that day, & if I had time to look at my files, might be able to arrange them according to their dates. But without this reference, it appears to me beyond a doubt, that the measures & events hinted at, preceded those of C. Paul Jones & Capt Barry, many months.
Accept with your Lady & family, the highest esteem & respect of Mrs Gerry & myself & our own circle, & be assured dear Sir I am / ever your sincere Friend

E. Gerry


Title: To John Adams from James Monroe, 15 February 1813
From: Monroe, James
To: Adams, John

February 15, 1813

I have the pleasure to inclose to you a report of a the com: of  the. 7th. on our for: relations with govts. in which the communications wh took place between the  Ex:  of the US. & the Br. govt., are review’d, & the a  project of an act of congress, relative to seamen submitted to considerations—The object  of the report seems to be and as it undoubtdly is, to place the controversy between the two nations on a just footing, to support the steps taken by measure of  the Ex: by a corresponding measure act of the Congress, and by taking from G.B.  the support all motive for the war, & from the opponents to the govt the ground of opposition, either procur peace & terminate itthe war by an honourable peace, or unite the country in a vigorous prosecution of the war. The   the bill  with certain amendments has passed the H. of R.—but has not yet been taken up in the Senate.
I had the pleasure to receive from you sometime since a letter which excited much my feelings. The proof which it afforded me of your confidence & esteem was highly very gratifying to me. Having highly respected in  my  life, the great abilities & the virtuous firmness which you displayed in our revolutionary struggle; having always entertaind  the highest the utmost ardor for confidence in your perfect independance of foreign influence, in your integrity, patriotism, and attachment to our happy union, I could never be indifferent either to what concern’d your welfare, the or to your sentiments & disposition toward me. In acknowledging that communication permit me to assure you that your opinions on the subject  to which it related had much weight with me. My sincere wish  is that, no innocent person shod. at one point confidence and to suffer fail to obtain redress, and I am persuaded whatever may have weaken the union, merits attention, and so far as been the character of the original transaction, that pray  be the possible prevention  many innocent persons have sufferd. I am aware that this calamity affecting one portion of the union only produces an injurious effect & think that    consideration in itself ought to be have much weight. I hope you My hope is that this cause of inquietude & complaint may be ad settled on just principles, & to the satisfaction of all parties. Your favorable opinion of their claim lends much to promote that result.
From your son we have recd. no letters of a late date. The Baltic being frozen up, & the comn. by land cut off, by the war between France & Russia, have prevented it. His view of the present state of affrs. between those powers, & in the north generally, will be very interesting & is looked for with anxiety by the President. At a time however so critical in theUStates, his absence has been regretted. o.
with great respect & esteem


Title: To John Adams from David Adams, 18 February 1813
From: Adams, David
To: Adams, John

Hond. and Dear Sir
Greene District of Maine Feby 18th 1813

Having a disposition and inclination to Join the Army—if I could by the influence of friends obtain an appointment—and trusting in your candor and friendship—I have thought proper to communicate my wishes to you on the subject—I wish you would assist me in obtaining an appointment as Surgeon or Surgeons Mate to a Regiment—By lending me your assistance you will confer a peculiar favor on Sir your Obedient / and very Humble Servt David Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Rush, 21 February 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Rush, Benjamin

Dr Sir
Quincy Feb. 21. 1813

Yours of the 8th is yet unanswered.—I beg your Pardon for hinting, tho in jest at my Antinovanglian Prejudice. I do believe you as free from it as you ought to be, or as I am. Dearly as I love New England, I know it, and its faults.
Your Idea of Pensilvania is perfect. In a few days you will See that I have been reviewing an old Scene. In 1775, You will See how the Committee on Trade and on a Navy Struggled. Debates, Delays, Embarrassment  Perplexities. In 1774 and 1775, When Congress first met, the Delegates from S.C. were as patriotick, ardent bold and resolute as those of Mass.—Indeed their Constituents were So. But the moment they arrived in Philadelphia, they were besieged and Surrounded with Quakers, Proprietarians, and Anglomanes. Israel Pemburtons Drinkers Shoemakers, Allens Penns, Chews, Bonds Cadwalladers, Dickensons &c &c. When armed Ships came in Question, You can hardly imagine the opposition. My zealous Efforts to promote a Naval Force were the most decisive and obnoxious Proof of my Design at Independence. We could carry Votes but by Small Majorities. Consider who were there? Mr Duane, Mr Dinkinson, Mr Willing, Mr William Livingston &c &c &c even my own Colleagues Mr Paine, Mr Cushing were opposed to me. Mr H. was President. and was Silent. After the Business was established he became ambitious of Stealing the Glory of it i.e. of the Naval Armament.! S.C. were perverted by your Quakers and Proprietarians. Ned Rutledge was the most earnest, the most Zealous, the most flippant and fluent of all the Opposers. He boarded in Dr Bonds House. Gadsen however was faith full found. immovable as a Rock; Stable as the Mountains. Such Men are born for the Public not for themselves. But Rutledges, Middletons and even Lynch flinched!“They are now all powerful in all our Monied Institutions, except one, in our Libraries, Hospital and University; and possess universal professional Mercantile, maritime and mechanical Patronage.” These are your Words applied to Philadelphia and Pennsilvania. You may apply the Same words with the Same Truth to Boston and Massachusetts.
Mistake me not. I do not allow Waterhouse more Splendid Talents on the contrary I believe with Professor Sulliman that Dr Rush has done more lasting honour to his Country, and Service to Mankind, than Waterhouse or even Franklin Washington, Adamses Montgomeries or Warens. There is for you! Vanity and all! Yet, as Dr Swift Said of Arbuthnot, Even Rush has his fault! I have no Idolatry for Politicians or Warriours. Who would not prefer Hypocrates to Alexander or Demostehnes! Every Discovery, Invention or Improvement in Science, especially medical science is lasting. Political and military glories transient as the Wind. Solon and Lycurgus have passed Away, and what good have they done? It would be republican Blasphemy to Say that Pisistratus the Tyrant did more good than both. Yet History would countenance a doubt.
Alas! Defeat after Defeat! I hope these defeats will teach Us the Necessity of System, Subordination, Discipline and Obedience! That the entire Prosperity of every state depends on the discipline of its Armies! by Sea and Land. Our Naval Conquerors, have proved this to the immortal glory of our Nation. Boyd alone has behaved like a Soldier, I mean at Tippacanoe!
Bainbridges’s Laurells are as Splendid at least as any and ought to have a glorious Station in the Fleet upon the Stage in a late dream.
Quincys Speech had too much Indelicacy Indecorum and Vulgarity, many Truths indeed. But I cannot agree with him or you in the Folly, Madness or Cruelty in the design of the Canada War. The design was benevolent and beneficent to Canada itself, & Our Blunders and defeats have been greater Misfortunes to Canada and Nova Scotia than to Us! as Time will prove. The conduct of it the War in the Legislature The Executive and the Army I give Up. But Canada and Nova Scotia must be severed from Europe, or we never Shall have repose. They would have Seperated themselves in a little Time. Now the Lakes must be commanded in all Events. May favourable Winds waft your Son Benjamin in health Wealth and Fame to the Bosom of his Family and Country. So prays his Friend
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Rush, 23 February 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Rush, Benjamin

My Friend.
Quincy February 23. 1813

I loose no time in answering your Letter of the 15th, that my Confidence in your Love to your Country, the rectitude of your Judgment as well as your Intentions, and your Personal Friendship to me, are is so entire; that you are at Liberty to make what Use you judge for the Public Good, of my Name and my Letters. Personal and local and State Reflections and Allusions, in which I have indulged myself to you, without reserve and almost without Limits, you will of Course Suppress.
Yesterday I put into the Post office a Letter to you directly. And another of four sheets of Paper, also directed to you. But under Cover to John Adams Smith Counsellor at Law New York, with orders when he had read it, to seal it with a Wafer, and send it, under my Frank to you, by the Post. It relates wholly to the origin of our Navy. In it a Letter from Vice President Gerry, is quoted: but carlessly omitted. I inclose it with this, and you may publish what you please of that too. But return it to me.
Your Letter to Waterhouse I have sent to him this Morning by my two Grand Daughters. I like your Plann for him.
There is no Intoxication, my Friend in the Foresight of the Tumble Bug. There is none in the Foresight of the Necessity of the Dominion of The Lakes. What are the Lakes to me? What to New England? Little more than The Caspian, Sea or Lake of Geneva. But they are of infinite Importance to the middle and Southern States. Without them there can be no Security against The Indians: to say no more.
Winchesters Defeat is a dreadfull affair to Kentucky, Ohio, and all of Us. But You and I and our contemporaries have no Right to reproach the present government or the present generation. We blundered at Lexington at Bunkers Hill, in Rhode Island, New York, Long Island, Staten Island Haerlem Heights, Fort Washington, Fort Lee, Brandy Wine, Germantown Monmouth South Carolina, Virginia, Canada! Where indeed did We not blunder? except Saratoga and York where our Tryumphs redeemed all former disgraces
My heart bleeds for the Frontiers; and much more for the Unfeeling Insensibility, which too much prevails in this quarter. Are We One Nation or 18.?
Yours six times
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to D.C. Ballard, 27 February 1813
From: Adams, John
To: Ballard, D.C.

Sir
Quincy Feb. 27. 1813

I duely recd. your favour of Jan 10th and Should have Sooner acknowledged it if Indisposition had not confined me to my house for a longer time than I was ever before confined, Since I can remember.
In Answer to your request, I inclose a Newspaper, “the Spirit of 1776” in which you will find the Annunciation of a great Work entitled “An Enquiry into the Principles and Policy of the Government of the United States, by John Taylor of Caroline County, Virginia.” This is a Gentleman of high Rank of ample fortune and great Industry. He has devoted his Leisure hours for 20 Years as you See. His Work of 600 or 700 Pages in Octavo, is principally employed in taking me to Pieces. You See then that I Shall be employed for 20 Years to come, in putting myself together again. I know that you will not devote your paper to So frivolous a Use: but I request as a favour that you would publish in your Patriot at full Length Mr Taylors Advertisement, or return me the Newspaper as it is. Your Friend

John Adams