Title: William Stephens Smith to Abigail Adams, 29 December 1785
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Adams, Abigail

       Thursday Decr. 29th. 1785

     An anxiety to preserve a consistancy of Character in the opinion of Mrs. Adams (in whose favourable sentiments I feel myself more and more interested) induces me to say, that I have some reason to believe, that the late Connection, which appeared an insurmountable Obstacle to the accomplishment of the Wish nearest my heart—exists no longer. And from the opinion I have of the Lady, I am persuaded, that nothing dishonourable on her part could have occasioned it.
     Strongly impressed with sentiments which induce a sacred attention to the Laws of hospitality, and a lively sense of Moral Obligation, I cannot postpone informing her, that her Amiable Daughter, is the only Lady of my acquaintance, either in Europe or America, that I would connect myself with for Life. With a Mind deeply impressed with her Virtues, apparently established by the principles of her education, Mrs. Adams will not be surprised at my anxiety to gain her confidence, and to lay a proper foundation for a future Connection, which must insure me all the happiness I can wish, provided it should meet with her wishes, and the approbation of her friends.
     I have no inclination, My dearest Madam, to be precipitate on this Subject, but I should feel Guilty, whenever I entered your Doors, If I did not give you the earliest information of my wishes and intention. It now rests with you Madam, and her honoured Father to Object in the early stages of it, if at all, and be assured, your decission will greatly influence my Conduct. You once charged me with precipitancy, but believe me Madam, I did not merit it, as I can fully convince you, should you think proper to Converse on the Subject.
     This Communication, (perhaps,) you may think, ought to be made to Mr. Adams, but I feel more easy in the communication with you. And as I do not Know that he is acquainted with my sentiments respecting the Lady, (as well as you are Madam), it would render a long and formal Letter necessary, while perhaps this mode may answer every end, as I suppose you will be in a great measure governed by his sentiments on the Subject, it is probable, you will submit this to his perusal.
     I feel myself under every disadvantage. I am almost a stranger—and it might appear strange were I to say nothing of myself, but strange as it may appear, delicacy checks my pen. I can only say, my family are neither Obscure, nor unknown, and in whatever relates to them, or myself I submit freely to your investigation and you may take what time you please to satisfy yourself on the Subject. However, I shall neither appear the Child of fortune nor the offspring of Illustrious Ancestors, but such as I am, I seek your friendship, and aspire to your Daughters Love.
     What has been my Conduct, and what the Lines which have marked my Character, since I entered into Life, will be better explained to you and perhaps more to your satisfaction, by the papers which accompany this, than if I were to become my own Panegyrist. After the perusal of these papers, I wish it to be recollected, that altho’ “it is better to marry a Gentleman alway’s involved in business, than one who has no Profession at all,” that I have some claim to indulgence on that point; having sacrificed that important Period of my Life in my Country’s Service, which others have (perhaps more wisely) spent in their private concerns and arrangements. If Mrs. Adams knew the situation of my family before the war, she would be satisfied, that a fixed profession, was not at that time considered absolutely necessary for my support, or to enable me to move in that Circle which my Education, Conduct and Connections have hitherto entitled me to.—The Papers will convince you, that I may without presumption boast of the honourable Profession of Arms, which I have followed with success and have received my Country’s acknowledgement with such assurances as the Nature of our Goverments will admit of, of Mention thro’ Life.
     Seperate from this, I feel myself competent to an honourable Profession, suited to the peaceful walk of Life, which with my very small fortune and moderate Abilities, will enable me to live in content and retirement, whenever I chuse to make the experiment with a friend, detached from the follies and vices of society.
     It now rests with you Madam and Mr. Adams to determine whether I shall confine myself to the duties of my station, or whether I may be permitted to cultivate the further friendship of your family.
     I am, Madam, in relation to you and Yours all that honour and inclination can make,

      W. S. Smith


Title: Elizabeth Storer Smith to Abigail Adams, 3 January 1786
From: Smith, Elizabeth Storer,Storer, Elizabeth
To: Adams, Abigail

       Janury 3d 1786

     Notwithstanding the unconquerable aversion I ever had to writing I cannot forbear taking up my Pen, to Congratulate my dear Neice on the new year, and to thank her for her favour by the Welcome hand of my Nephew, who is return’d I hope uncorupted, I do not wonder you wisht to keep him with you, I think he is very agreable. Your Journal and Letters to your friends have ever afforded me great Pleasure, and I look on my self under greater Obligation as your Correspondence is so large.
     I am glad to find you still retain such an affection to your Native Place, notwithstanding the number of gay Senes which sorounde you, I make no doubt it would be pleasing to you, as well as to all your Conections, to have you with Mr and Miss A return to us again. I have slept but three nights at Brantree since my dear friend absence, it realy looks so Melancholy, I cannot take that pleasure I used to when you was their, I hope you will enliven it again with your Company, the pleasure we feel at seeing our Friends return, in a great measure make up for the pain of separation.
     I wish it was in my power to write any thing entertaining, but as I seldom go abroad in Winter, I know but little besides what passes in my one familey, and there is no Matches going on the too Old Bacheldors still continue so.
     Mrs Gill has latly had a letter from Mrs Hollowell informing her Capt H. and she had been a Journey and there health is much better, I am sorry their is any impedient in the way to your visiting Mrs H. as I know you would both be happy in each others acquaintance.
     Please to remember my love to Miss Hobart, I am much obliged to her for enquiering after me, she is Sister to Mrs Vasal and formaly lived with Madam Steel one of my most agreable Neighbours, I should be glad to see her and Mr Vasal’s familey in Boston again.
     So our friend Thomas B. begins to think he shall not live here always, as he has so good an opinion of your Uncle I wish he would leave him a handsome legasy, I think he ought to for the care he took of his intrest when he was out of town.

     How does my good friend Mrs Rogers has she recovered her health, give my love to her, I sinserely sympathize with her in the death of her amiable Mama: O how many kind friends have we been calld to part with since you left us, and whose turn it may be next God only knows, but may we all be prepared for this Change and meet again in the World above to part no more is the sinsere wish of Your Affectonate Aunt

      Elizabeth Smith

      PS. Mr and Mrs Otis are well and send their love to you and Mr and miss Adams. My love to Cousin Nabby I sinserely wish her happy.


Title: Cotton Tufts to Abigail Adams, 5 January 1786
From: Tufts, Cotton
To: Adams, Abigail

      Dear Cousin
      Weymouth Boston Jany 5. 1786

     I have to thank you for your Communications of Sept and Octob. which came to Hand. And I have many Things which I wish to write but must confine myself to some few matters that have relation to your Affairs. Your Bro Adams informs me that he has your Note for £30. I wish to know whether you would have me discharge it. I this day paid your Mohr. Hall 5 Dolrs. for the ft. Quarter having deferered it to this Time in order to begin the Payments with the Year. Your Tenant Mr Pratt has been so unfortunate in the Year past as to lose with the Horn Distemper one of the largest Oxen—2 Cows, and one Hog with a Distemper of which a Number have died. I have thoughts of making him a Consideration in the Settlement of Acctts. as the loss will be heavy to him and I presume it will not be disagreable to you. I have received the 17 Guineas by Mr Charles Storer (5 delivered him and 12 by the Way of Dr. Crosby). I informed you that I had laid out for Mr Adams Upwards of £100 in Consoledated Notes—and have followed your Directions by your Son John, a more particular Acctt. of the whole, I shall give you in my Next. I wish you to attend to the matter relative to Doanes Acctt. and send me an Answer—and from Time to Time give me a dish of Politices for I assure you that your Intelligence is very acceptable. What shall I do should it be found necessary to call for a Surrender of Account Books Papers &c in the Hands of a certain Attorney. I have found it necessary for a long while to call for the Completion of this and that Business &c which is not very pleasing to one who wishes to have Business dispatched with Care and punctuality and Speed. However I hope I have got Matters into a tolerable good Train. There is not a little rejoicing here at the Breaking off a Correspondence between the young Folks. As soon as I get Leisure I shall write you a long Letter which the Necessity of my returning home this Forenoon and a Snow Storm coming on prevents.
     Be so kind as to forward the Letter to Mr Elwerthy. Remember me to Mr Adams and Cousin. Charles is well—now at Braintree being the Winter Vacation, your other Children were well last Week. Adieu. Yr Friend &c

      C Tufts


Title: Edward Baldwin to Abigail Adams, 17 January 1786
From: Baldwin, Edward
To: Adams, Abigail

      Madam
      Saint James’s Market 17th. January 1786

     Understanding that through the means of some improper and unjust Conduct in your Servants you have had reason to doubt the honesty of some of your Trades-people and as such have come to a determination of changing them. I beg leave to observe, that, truly sensible of my own Integrity throughout the whole time I have had the satisfaction of serving you, the very first moment that I heard of your being dissatisfied with me, which was about Ten days since and which was respecting a deficiency in the Weight of some Meat which your Cook came down to my Shop and informed me of I immediately sett off to your House to re-weigh the same when I found missing a piece of Brisket of Beef and a piece of Gravey Beef which prevented my reweighing the Meat, but the fact really is, that, at that time as well as all others ever since I have had the pleasure of serving you the Weight was full and just and every Article charged hath been at all times truly and faithfully delivered agreeable to the Orders I have received—I have endeavourd, personally to have the satisfaction of Acquitting myself to you in this Business but could not obtain an opportunity, your Servants seemed averse to it, however I hope and trust I shall acquire such my wish herein, as, whether you shall be kind enough to continue to indulge me with the happiness of serving your House or not, it behoves me as a Trades-man to support the Character of an Honest Man. Begging pardon for the Trouble I here give you, and thanking you for the favours I have already received, take the liberty to Subscribe myself, Madam, Your much Obliged and very humble Servant

      Edward BaldwinButcher


Title: Abigail Adams 2d to John Quincy Adams, 22 January 1786
From: Adams, Abigail (daughter of JA and AA)
To: Adams, John Quincy

       No. 11

       Sunday January 22d. 1786

     I have taken my pen, to frame an appology to you my Dear Brother. There are so many that offer themselvs to me, that I am almost at a loss, which to avail myself of as most sattisfactory to you—should I tell you that no opportunity of forwarding my Letter to you had been the cause of my silence since the 9th of December or that not having received any answer to my many long Letters I had determined to wait till I should hear again from you, or, that time and opportunity had not rendered it possible for me to write, or that my acquaintance had become so numerious and my time so much employd in visitting and festing them that I could find no moment unoccupied enough to collect my scattered ideas and arange them for your perusal. Some of these and many of the Like I could collect and perhaps you might be sattisfied but to none of these causes is my silence to be attributed, but has arrisen, from not knowing how to explain the cause to you, in such a manner as to gaurd you from surprise—and I am even at this moment equally at a loss—so I will enclose you a profile of a friend of your sisters as an introduction to the Gentleman to your acquaintance and perhaps he may tell you the Whole Story.
     My journal has been a little interrupted but I shall indeavour to continue it, as well as relate to you whatever may have passd worth your knowing since my Last. We have formd some new acquaintances, but none that are very interesting. We dined once at a Mr Penns, who was formerly Governor of Pensylvania and who Married a Lady in America. She has a sister Miss Masters who Lives with her, that is much celebrated for her beauty, and much admired for her expectations and an American Gentleman told me he thought her the handsomest Women he had sien in England. With these prepossessions in her favour, I went into Company where She was. I did not arraign the taste of the Gentleman, but I had sat half an hour before I could be convinced that Miss Masters was present. It is said that She is a fine bold beauty, two ideas that in my mind are incompatiable; I thought this description applicable to her.
     But bold her Mien unguarded roved her Eye, and her flushd cheek confessd at nearer view the borrowd blushes of an artfull die.
     I am sure she would not have please your fancy. She is a particular friend of Mrs Binghams and you may judge of her.
     Miss Hamilton of whom I have spoken to you, was, present at the same time and the contrast much in her favour, but this Lady with all the delicate softness and sweetness of unconscious beauty, will not attract the admiration of your sex, half so much as the other whom I have described to you. It must be acknowledged that your tastes are strongly degenerated. Mr P— seems to affect more roughness of Character than you even find general in this County, but professes to be an American in his principles. Mrs P, as ugly, Masculine and withot one trait of the amiable femal Character. In fine I was dasgusted with their manners, and appearance, and a gentleman observd, to me that he had not heard, such Language, in Thre years, as he had at table in one hour—yet it was polite fashionable and in Short without it they would have thought themselvs unGenteel. The Company were the family we visitted Mr and Mrs Pen, Mrs and Miss Masters Mr Hamilton and Miss H, Mr Chew, Pappa Mamma myself Mr Smith and Mr Humphries.
     We have been visitted by a Mrs Lamar as an American, and we received an invitation to a small party at her House the week before last. To give you some idea of society here, I will describe this visit, at Eight o clock we went, Mamma myself and Col S. Pappa did not choose to go. The Lady received us at the Doer, inquired after our Health lamented her disappotment in not seeing his Excellency, ordered us a Cup of tea, and askd whether we would play Whist or Commerce. In this way She receives the Whole Company, you take your seat, drink your tea, and must soon conclude to play either Whisth or Commerce or subject yourself to an inquirey from every person in Company why you do not. I long attemted to plead ignorance of Cards, or of any Game, and in every company but this I have kept to my resolution of not playing, but I found it singular, and if the Company was small the Lady of the House thought herself obliged to set still to keep me company, so this Eve I engaged in Commerce, and fortunately, in this circle of fifty People, got seated at a table with Mr and Ms West Miss Hamilton and Mr Smith. In the course of the evening you are offerd cake and lemonade, and at Ten or Eleven your Carriage is announced, you finish your Game, make a curtsey to the Lady of the House and come away, without noticeing any other Person in Company, or perhaps, knowing any creature only you go, with company. This is the manner of visitting, and a most stupid one it is, yet it may be unavoidable. Where one is obliged to have a large acquaintance it is impossible not to mix your Company, and in such numerous circle, any general conversation is impossible. You must get into parties and, where you are all strangers, they must substitute cards for amusement. They do not oblige you to play high, tho every one must play something, half a crown a game is the usual sum, at some Houses Half a Guinea. But young Ladies play Commerce, which is tottally a game of Chance and a most insipid One too. Here you put one two or three shillings to the Pool and run your chance of gaining or loosing. There are no other games, at present fashionable.
     This is the most fashionable Way of visitting here for these People who cannot afford to give dinners may make a figure in this way. It costs you only a little Cake and lemonade, fire and Candeles. Your company pays a shilling a Person for the Cards, that is, they who ever Leave a shilling a Person under the candelestick for the Cards, which is a perquisite of the servants who supply them. Custom reconciles any thing in this Way, but to me it appears a most abominable one.

      jany 30th 1786.

     More than a week ago, I made an effort to continue my journal, and succeeded thus far when I was interrupted by Madame Binghams being anounced and every day since I have thought of resuming my pen, but waited in hopes to hear from you by the arrival of Young. And to our great joy we received a Number of Letters by his ship, but those which he has in his possession, we have not yet recieved. I have one from you my Dear Brother but it is no latter than the 3d. of September and tho I was extremely gratified with it yet I was not sattisfied that there was none Later, and hope yet I shall find one. I will go on with my journal till the receipt of Your Letter, and then notice it.
     Mr and Mrs Bingham called to pay their respects. I allways used to observe in Paris that when this Gentleman had any point to sollicit he allways discovered it by his attention to visit, &c— and from his movements now I judge that he wishes to be presented at Court. They say, they shall go to America in the Month of March. Mr B. called one Morning last week and told us, that Mrs B. was perfectly sattisfied with going, indeed she would not stay if she were to follow her own wishes, that all her ideas were American. This Morning we congratulated her upon, the change of her inclination from last year, but she, denied it all, and declared that necessity was her only motive. They have spent three Months at the Hague and she is very much charmed and delighted with it. To be sure the Publick amusements are not equal to Paris but then there is so much good society, and She so much admired, that it would be ingratitude not to be pleased. He wonders, that Congress shold make so many appointments there, without being sure of there being accepted, thinks it a great disadvantage to our Country, and such is his Patriotism, that were it offered to him, I guess he would not refuse.
     This Evening Mamma, myself, Mr Smith and Mr Humphryes, went to visit Mrs Paradise, at one of her Evening parties. There were I believe forty People crouded into two rooms, not too large for a dozen. Ladies and Gentlemen, Stars and Garters, ribbands, and Medals—in Short such a collection as, might be descriptive of the Tower of Babel, for there were some from all Nations English Americans Spanish French Portugeese Polloneesse Venetians Russians, and, the duce knows who. We arrived rather late and had not a choice of seats. I took one next to a Mrs Coswey, an Italian who is rather a singular Character she paintts and her subjects are the most sungular that one can imagine. I saw the last year in the Exbition of painting several of her performances. One was a Dream, another the deludge, the most extreordinary things, that imagination could form. She speaks English Italian and French vastly well, it is said, Plays and sings, well, but has nevertheless, the foibles, which attend these accomplishments. I sat by her the Evening and was witness to sollicidute from all most Every Person in the room, to her to Play, and sing, and of her absolute refusall. She was sick had a voilent Cold and had not sung for a forght night. At last after every one had given over there sollicitude she, followed her own inclincation and play and sang till she came away. Now I think a Woman is never excuseable for such a Conduct uless like Miss Mayhew, she has an ineshaustable fund of Wit and good Humour to display upon the occasion, which this Lady had not. She is one of those soft gentle pretty Women, whose Compliance with the request of the company would please more than her Airs could possibly give her importance. She has Musical parties at her own House on Monday Evenings. We have no acquaintance tho General Pauolia, whom you know from report I suppose was there. He appears to be about sixty years of age, light Complexion red Hair, and discovers no simtoms of greatness, or Extraordinary quallities. But were I to attempt to describe the various Characters that were present I shold tire myself, and you also.
     When one wishes to see singularity in all its forms it is only necessary to visit this family, for in themselvs they are, extremely so, and we find like all others of their acquaintance that civility is only to be preserved by ceremony and distance.

      Monday the 23d.

     Pappa and Mr Smith dined at Mr Penns. This was a Political dinner, at the request of, Lord Shelbure who was present with Lord Abingdon. These People you know are supposed to be in the oppossition and this was the day before the meeting of Parliament. I believe Pappa was not extremely sattisfied, with thier sentiments with respect to US at least. He thinks they have no decided system. But this is Politicks.

      Tuesday, 24th.

     This day the Parliament meets and the King delivered his speach from the Throne. Sir Clement Cottril Domir Dormer Master of the cerimonies, sent your Mamma word that if she wished to see this cerimony he would secure her places. But we had engaged company to dine and feared we should be detaind too late, but we might have gone for his Majesty came out at half after three. Our Company were Mr and Mrs West Mr West Junr Mr Trumble, who has finished his battle of Bunkers Hill, and I assure you it is a most terible thing if the expression may be allowed to express, a good performance. I went to see it the other Morning and I was frozen, it is enough to make ones hair to stand on End. The moment of the Piece is when General Warren is slain and the scene, is dreadfully beautifull, or rather dreadfully expressive. It is to be engraved, and will secure to him imortal reputation. He is now upon the Dath of Montgomory. Mr and Miss Hamilton Miss Hollowell, and a Mr Ansty an Englishman, a Lawyer and a Member of Parliament, who is appointed to go out to America to assertain the claims of the Royalists. He was introduced to Pappa by My Lord Carmarthen and Pappa has given him letters to the Governors of all the states, and others to Members of Congress. He has calld upon Pappa once before but I did not then see him and today was the first time and without Hessitation I can say that he is the handsomest, politest best bred Englishman I have yet seen. In short I doubted whether he really was an Englishman his manners were perfectly easy and polite and he was the admiration of the Company. I was sorry that I had not any letter written for you to forward by him as he intends visiting Boston soon after his arrival. Your Mamma has written by him to your Aunt Cranch. If I had have thought more of it I would at least have given him a Letter of introduction to you, for I really think him a Phenominon. His family live at Bath and he leaves London on sunday, for thence and goes in the Packet which will sail the first Wedensday in Februry. Mr Humphrys and Mr Smith finishd our circle. These gentlemen however we call a part of our own family for they dine with us, every day when they are not otherwise engaged. I often wish for you my Brother to make a sixth, at Table and in every scene. I miss you and wish for you, but to no purpose. I have not had a game of romps since the 12th of May and doubt whether I ever shall again. We amuse ourselvs with battledoors, Chess, Cards and &c. Mr Humphries is having his last Poem published if he should present one to me I shall forward it to you. He says that he likes Engld better than he expected he has met with no incivilities of any kind, and he finds them a civiler People than he expected. He now waits for Mrs Siddons to appear and to hear the debates in Parliament before he makes his exit. Pappa tills him he shall be quite in the deepts when he goes—and sometimes proposes to him in jest that they should go together to Algiers to make a Treaty. Mr Barclays movements are so slow that it does not appear that he will get there before next summer, he was appointed in October, and he had not left Paris the begining of January. Lamb and Randall, are I suppose nearly arrived, at Algiers, but from all accounts there does not seem to be much prospect of their succeeding, from the total incapacity of the former. Indeed all who are concernd in the affair, fear that this effort will be inaffectual which is very unfortunate. Pappa says, that he suspects that the Emperior of Morroco, will suppose his dignity insulted by receiving only persons deputized by those who Congress Commisioned, and he does not know but he shall have to go himsellf in the spring if this should be the case. I confess I am not sure that he would not go. I have offered to accompany him but you know I did to Madrid, but I suspect I shall see no more of the One than the other. This however is entree Nous.

      Wedensday 25th

     Mamma and myself were out in the Morning to visit Mr Smith at Clapham, whom I have mentioned formerly to you, as an agreeable family who have shown us many civilities. We had an invitation to a ball and supper at ther House the last week. Pappa you know, dislikes going himself into such companies and Mamma nor myself do not like to go by ourselvs, so we did not accept the invitation. Mrs Smith was so polite as to request Mamma to put me under her Care, for the Eve, but I thought it best not to go. Mr Humphryes and Mr Smith were there and gave us a very cleaver account of it. The latter does not dance, but Plays, and. On our return we called at Madame Binghams but were not admitted and I suppose were we to go every day in the week it would be the sam thing. They have taken a small House, but by no means, superb, and I suppose do not propose seeing Company at all.

      Fryday 27th

     Mamma and myself were out all the Morning. We are much engaged at present in preparing our dresses for the Birth day, which has been put off from the 18 of jany, to the 9th of February on account of the long Mourning for the Queens Brother and sister which has kept al London in sable for two Months past. The Princess Elizabbeth has been very much indisposed for a long time her Life has been dispaird of but She is better at Present. Appropo I believe I have never yet told you, that the Publick papers have sent the Prince of Whales to sup with us, about 2 Months since. And it was believed by many People, some who were acquainted in this family really supposed it. It was I suppose a pareigraph to answer their own Ends. And Mrs Right who was not much pleased at it tho She really belived it till we told her the truth, says that the Princes servants did not deny it, and he said himself in Princely Language—Dam it—it is time to go—and be friends—this is entree Nous.

      Saturday 28th.

     To day your Pappa dined at a Mr Wilmots, one of the Commisioners, to judge of the Claims of the American Refugees. Mr Humphryes and Mr Smith dined at Mr Binghams so Mamma and myself were alone, till Even.

      Sunday 29th.

     We went to Church, and herd an Excellent sermon from Dr Price, upon the chain of Universal being. He tells us, that we all have, good and bad Angells, Gaurding over us, and that all our actions are under their influence and . His system is that that this chain of being also exists from animate matter in gradation up to Man (and which many suppose there stops) goes still further and that Man is only one link, which is persued, to infinite perfection. And I recollect in one of his sermons he has given this sentiment that we have existed before, our present state and that when we make our exit from hence we shall asscend by gradual stages, and become more and more perflect provied we are good and virtuous. These cannot be speculative opinions from him whith which he only amuses, the Minds and pleases the imagination. They must be his real sentiments, or he would not deliver them from the Pulpit.
     After we returnd from Church I left a Card with Miss H. Mr Bridgen called upon Pappa, and Mr R R Randall Brother to the Gentleman you know. As we had engaged a company of Americans to dine to day Pappa askd him to stay which he did. He is not so agreeable as his Brother. Mr Anstly calld this Morn, to take leave of Pappa he expected to have gone before. My former opinion was confirmed of him as much as it could be. Our Company to dine were, Mr Forrest an American Merchant settled here. He was formerly an officer in the Army, where he lost his Leg, but he has got into business and seems to be a worthy Man. Dr Bancroft you know. There were four Gentlemen from Carolina, Mr Heyward, Mr Gibbs, Mr Shewbreck and Mr Readhead. Mr Murry was invited with Mr Forrest but he has lately been extremely ill and has not recoverd enought to go into Company. The Death of his father has distressed him very much and his Mother is in a Maloncholy state of Mind. The former event renders it absolutely necessey for him to go out in the spring. He is now recovering his Health. Did you receive a Letter from him which was enclosed by Charles Storer to my Uncle Tufts or Cranch? It went by a ship, which saild about a week before Lyde. As you have inclosed no letter for him I fear it has missd you. Most all the Americans, who are here seem to be going in the spring. Mr and Mrs Bingham Mr and Mrs Rucker Miss Ransey Mr and Miss Hamilton Mr Chew, and indeed most that I am acquainted with, will make theier exit. Some I shall very much regret, and others I shall not think of, at all. There seems to be but little Communication at present between Ouer state and this Country, and Politicians say there will be still less, that the Trade of America is stopd to this Country never to begin again, that France will receive more and more every day. You will hear perhaps, that Mr Boylston has sold his Oil in Paris at a very great advantage 30 per cent clear gain, and that Mr Barret has made a Contract to send so much Oil, and to receive French Goods. The Marquis, has his influence and it has had its affect. The Person who has the lighting of the 30 Citties, prefers our Oil to ether Dutch or Any other. These are things with which your Father is pleased.

      Monday 30th.

     This afternoon I received your letter by Young, but I was not a little surprised to find it no later than the 7th of september, and can only account for it by supposing there must be another in Capt Youngs Care.

      Tuesday 31st.

     Pappa went at three o clock this Morn to the House of Parliament. Mr Wilmot with whom he dined a saturday and who is a member of P— introduced him. He had spoken to Mr Pit and some other Gentlemen, and they were very sivil. The Person on whose particular department it is to admit Gentlemen, said, that sometimes Member of P— introduced Counts and Barons, under the title of Foreign Ministers, which makes him allways carefull, to know who he admited but we all know Mr Adams, and I shall be happy to see him whenever he chooses to come. But the House ajournd, and Pappa got home before four much pleased with the marks of civility shown him. He walkd home with Mr Penn, who is very polite and told Pappa that if we wanted to go to the Play at any time Mrs Pen, would accommodate us, with places, for by some means or other She has so much influence with the Box keepers as to have a Box whenever she pleases. We have been trying for some time to get a Box, but it is impossible unless you bribe the Box keepers, and we have never yet done that. But there are Ladies who go so far as to give twenty Gueaneas a years, as a present to the Box keepers, for which they have places whenever they apply. it is not so in F They manage this matter better in France said yorick—upon some other occasion. A Gentleman may Generally get accommodated with seats. Pappa ges often with Mr Humphries. This Evening he went to Covent Garden to see the Distressd Mother, in which Miss Brunton playd. She is a very promising Actress, a little more than seventeen, and for her age really surprizing. I saw her in juliet of Shakespear, and was much pleased, she plays with the greatest judgment. I thought She was deficient in sensibility but I am told that She does not in other Characters. She hasnt such a countenance as Mrs siddons but in time she may approach There have appeard several new peices, lately one calld the Heiress, which is said to be written by Genl Burgoine, and Mr Smith says, He has not seen so delicate a Comedy since he has been in England. I have not seen it yet.

      Wedensday Februry the 1st. 1786.

     Mr and Mrs Bingham askd Pappa to present them at Court on the Birth day, but as this is contrary to etiquette, they must be presented this week or stay till the Week after the Birth day. This was not a little disappointment. Last Eve Pappa received a Card from Mr B. telling him that Mrs B. would defer her presentation but that his anxiety was so great to pay his respects to the King that he begd he might be presented to day at the levee insted of Thursday at the drawing room. These were his own words and this Morning by Pappas appointment he called at half past twelve, accompanied by his Dear friend Mr Crawford, with whom they returnd from Paris. When they got to the levee your Pappa says, he teized him till he got him to introduce him to Lord Carmarthen, and in this way it is that he forces himself upon People—ridiculous being.
     We dined to day at Mr Copelys, the Company were only Pappa Mamma myself Mr Smith Mr Humphryes Mr and Mrs Roggers. I passd an agreeable day. Mr and Mrs C— look as if bowed down under affliction they lost two Lovely Chrildren, about, two Months since with the inflamatory soar throat. No one can wonder at their dejection they seeem to exert themselvs to appear chearfull. We came away at Nine oclock.

      Thursday Feb 2d.

     Pappa and Mr Smith went to the Drawing room. Mr B. was presented to her Majesty. Mr Crawford went with Mr Bingham and

     Pappa yesterday to the levee, from here in our Carriage, and to day, the papers say Mr Crawford was presented by your Pappa to the King tho he was presented a forghtmight since. The Foreign Ministers were rallying your father about it to day. Mr Eden, is appointed to make Commercial arangments and Treaty with France. It is said he is going to Paris soon. The Papers have been full of this matter for this Month, but tis thought that he will meet no better success than Mr Craufurd. Tis said he has the sallary of an Ambassador. The Duke of Dorset has returnd to Paris, and tis said that Conpt D’adamah d’Adhémar, is on his rout to London.

      Fryday 3d.

     Mamma and myself went down and passd the day with Mrs Roggers. Pappa was going to Parliament and the Gentlemen dined from home.

      Saturday 4th.

     We were at home all day. We rode in the Park in the Morning the weather was very fine indeed. In the Evening Mr Voss a Virginian and Mr Trumble called upon us.

      sunday 5.

     Pappa and Mamma went to Meeting. I stayd at home to write to you. The Gentlemen dined with us. Mr Brown called in the Evening. Mr Humphryes went to Mrs Paradises. The Baron de Lynden and Mr Duker called upon us. The Baron to invite us to dine on Wedensday with Madame Bingham.

      Monday 6th.

     We were out in the Morning. Mr S and H dined in the City. In the Evening Mrs and Miss Paradise called upon us, and appeard more ridiculous than ever. The Chavalier Dolombieu, a Knight of the order of Molta who has been here some time and was introduced to Pappa by Mr Jefferson, called and pasd an hour. Mr Jefferson, gives him credit for being a sensible Man, but his manners which are all that one can judge from at first do not prejudice in his favour, tho there is nothing particuliarly disagreeable.

      Tuesday 7th.

     We had a party of Gentlemen and Ladies to dine. Mr and Mrs Pen, Mrs and Miss Masters Mr and Mrs Bingham, Mr Crawford Mr Wilmot Mr Chew. I have described to you already, those of this Company who you are not acquainted with. They were singular and extraordinary Characters la tout.

      Wedensday

     Pappa presented Mr Hamilton and Mr Chew at Court to day. Now the ice is broken I suppose there will be no end—to presentations. We went to dine with the Baron de Lynden at 4 because Mr Hamilton has been so obliging as to offer us seats in a Box he had engaged at Covent Garden. Our Company at dinner were Pappa Mamma myself Mr Smith Mr and Mrs B. an oald German Baron Bowd down under the smiles of fortune, or with age, the Baron seckingdorf, Mons. Jeanneret de Luniac, the Baron de Lynden and Mr Duker. The dinner was neat rather than elegant. There was no display of Luxury, except in a Large silver tereen which was very elegant. Madame B. shone away in all her splendor, her dress was that she wore last Winter black and Pink, and I have not seen so elegant a Woman, since I have been in England. A Gentleman who sat next me at table Told me I was in Love with her. O it is true that I never see her without admiration in the highest degree. We being engaged to go to the Play were obliged to leave the Table, at the desert. I was not much gratified with the Play neither. It was the Comedy of the provoked Husband. There were two celebrated Actresses apperd, but I was not charmed with them neither. Pappa went to see Mrs siddons who made her firt appearance in Tragedy since her Confinement and in Jane Shore, two. We could not get a Box, and therefore could not go. Mamma myself and Mr Smith, went to Mr Hamiltons Box, he was there with his Neice.


Title: Abigail Adams to Mary Smith Cranch, 26 January 1786
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Cranch, Mary Smith

      My Dear Sister
      London Janry 26 1785 i.e. 1786

     A mr Anstey who is appointed by the British Goverment to visit the different States; for the purpose of assertaining the claims of the Loyalists, is going out in the Newyork packet. He dinned here on twesday. His manners are much in his favour, he appears well bred sensible and modest, a real Gentleman in his appearence. He was so kind as to offer to take Letters for us. As mr Adams and col Smith have large packets to charge him with I must be modest in mine, and can only write you one Letter. Of this too I must be circumspect, as it is probable it must have a post conveyance from Newyork to Boston.
     I know not of any other opportunity whereby I can transmit you a line, to acquaint you that we have past through the Gloomy months of November and December without falling a sacrifice either to the cord, or Bullet, that we have all enjoy’d a comfortable share of Health. For myself I have had fewer headaches and less of the Rheumatisem than last winter.
     Your Letters by captain Cushing came safe to hand, but those by Fletcher were drownded, some scattering fragments were however sent us. My Friends will wait the return of cushing for answers to their kind Letters. He talks of sailing next month.
     The Court and indeed the whole city of London have been two Months in mourning for the Queens Brother and a sister in Law. Tho Cloathed in Sable my mind has not corresponded with my dress untill last week; when I read in a Boston paper an account of the death of my dear and amiable Aunt. From your last letters, I feared the event, but hoped that she would gragele through as winter approachd. The melancholy news afflicted me with that real sorrow which flows from tender affection; and Sympathetick feelings for those whom she has left to mourn an affectionate wife, a most tender parent; a kind Aunt, and a truly benevolent Friend. Every tie which heretofore endeard the place of my Nativity to me is broken, and I think I should feel more reluctance at visiting it, than any other spot upon the Globe.

      “When Heaven would kindly set us free
      And Earths enchantments end
      It takes the most effectual way
      And robs us of our Friends.”

     Poor Lucy has again lost a Mother, may she imitate her virtues, which will ever endear to me, her memory.
     I fear my dear sister that you will think the time very long before you will get any Letters from us. No opportunity has offerd except by way of Newyork. I wrote one Letter by the last packet, but had my reasons for writing no more.
     We have been looking for Capt Young untill we are quite anxious for his fate. I wisht him to arrive before I replied to your Letters. I expect to learn by him what has been said respecting the decision upon a certain affair: I suppose it will be the cause of much Speculation and I know that no arguments will now convince the Gentleman that the conduct of the Lady with respect to him, originated and resulted from his neglect of her. The World too I expect will asscribe to her fickleness and perhaps infidility. I know that she does not deserve the censure. I find mr —— is desirious of keeping the matter Secreet. In justice to her character it ought to be known that with respect to him she considers herself perfectly free. I could have wisht that a longer period of time might have elapsed, that the World might have had no shadow for censure. At any rate the Gentleman in America can have no hope left, and I should sincerely rejoice to hear that he was married or upon the point of being so, and let him not asscribe his dissapointment to you, to me, or to any person but himself. He has been too liberal in his censure, he is totally mistaken. You have been as tender as I know you ought to have been. I wish him no harm, but every happiness in his power to obtain. I value his good qualities, and I feel not a little for the Situation in which he has placed himself.
     I know I leave you in a puzzel. I cannot be more explicit at present, but rest assured that I have papers in my possession which will convince all concernd, that no dishonorable conduct has been practised.

     I hope long before this time mr Storer has reach’d his Friends in Boston. We learn by the Newspapers only of his arrival at Newyork. We wonder he did not write. We mist him much, and the more, because col Smith did not return from his Tour to Berlin Vienna and Paris, till some time in december. Col Humphries came with him from Paris and has been here ever since. Col Humphries is a Gentleman of Learning wit and Humour with a benevolent disposition and a good Heart, united with perhaps the best poetical Genious our Country can boast. I dare say you have seen his poem addrest to the American Army. He is now publishing an other poem here; one of which I will send you by the first opportunity. In short I do not know two Worthyer characters than the two Secretaries of Legation who are very intimate Friends, yet very different in their manners and accomplishments.
     You wish to know how I pass my time, my acquaintance my amusements &c.
     Those matters I must leave for more direct conveyances. I thank you my dear sister for all your kind attention to my children. I have no anxiety on their account, what I feel arises from a fear of burdening my Friends and not having it in my power to make them compensation. I fear I shall not be able to write only to you, so kindly remember me to all my dear Friends and believe me ever your affectionate Sister

      A A


Title: John Quincy Adams to William Cranch, 6 February 1786
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Cranch, William

      My dear Friend
      Haverhill Feby: 6. 1786

     Although I have been writing a long Letter to Charles, I still must find something to say to you, as I believe, I am in your debt. I hope however you will not stand upon ceremonies, but write whenever you can. Your benevolence will induce you to take the will for the deed, if I am not quite so punctual, as I should wish to be. I have just this moment shook hands with one Mr. Xenophon, that put out a book once, consarning history. I have finished four books, and shall therefore have nothing more to do with him here. I got through the first book of the Iliad, three or four days, after you left us, and shall attempt the second, tomorrow, I wish you would inform me exactly where you are, and where you suppose, you may be at the end of the ensuing Quarter. I think you said you had just begun the sixth book, do you think, you shall more than go through it? If not I hope to be up with you, by that time. But above all, be kind enough to remember, and enquire of Mr: Williams, whether he begins his Lecture, in March, or not till the end of the spring Vacancy.
     Sister Eliza came from Master White’s last Thursday, and we shall now be favoured with her Company, during the remainder of her stay here; our friend Leonard, will carry you a letter from her.
     The nearer we approach to any thing we desire, the greater is our impatience, to obtain it. I think more and more every day of being with you, and am pleased to see the time continually shortening. I had almost said like a certain gentleman expert in similies, that to be with you is as necessary to my Nature as a ——.
     On Wednesday the 15th: day of February, of the current year 1786, do you William Cranch, between the hours of 8 and 10, in the Evening, write me a Letter, in which you will in a rational, Philosiphical, and Mathematical, (ay and a Logical) manner, prove that the green ends of asparagus, were designed by Nature, to be eat by man; and mind, upon what foundation your System shall stand, for as I mean to oppose it, with all the zeal, that the importance of the matter requires; I shall take every possible advantage, to support my plan: which is that the white ends were designed by nature for the food of man. However if you are of my opinion, I would not force you to maintain the Contrary; because I always stand up for Liberty of Conscience, and I exhort you, in the discussion of this Question, to be cool; because, violence never can do good to any System, upon a contested point. I might enlarge upon this subject, but will wait for your answer, first.
     I intend to fill this page, before I close this Sentimental, poetical, and affecting Letter of mine, and I have been rubbing my skull to bring something out of it; but it tells me, it has nothing to say, and that I must e’en close the Letter, as I have carried it on, without the help of the brain.
     You will write back by the first opportunity, and tell me how all the folks in Braintree &c do; and especially, that sweet gentleman, who expressed so much indignation, to think a youth who had made the tour of Europe, should study closely after returning.
     Have you look’d into that piece of Poetry put out some time ago by one Cleanthes. If you have let us hear how he talks in English. Thy loving friend

      J Q A


Title: Abigail Adams 2d to John Quincy Adams, 9 February 1786
From: Adams, Abigail (daughter of JA and AA)
To: Adams, John Quincy

      N 12

       Feb. 9th. 1786 Thursday

     This my Brother is the day appropriated for the celebration of the Queens Birth day. It really comes in june but as the Kings is in that Month they defer its celebration to this season. Kings and Princess you know may do any thing which their power will permit with impunity. But to tell you—at 2 oclock we were dressd, Mamma in a sattin of the new fashiond Colour which is Called the spanish fly, trimed with Crepe and Gold fringe. My dress was pink sattin trimmed with Crepe and silver fringe and some Persons of taste told me that tho they saw more expensive and more superb dresses at Court they did not see one, more elegant and neat than my Ladyships. Now who think you this was. Why Mr Humphryes—and for all the World his taste is excellent. At two oclock, Mamma and myself got into the Carriage, and proceeded, on our way to st James’s. The Curiossity of People was so great having never seen any thing of the kind before. That the road from, Piccadilly to the Pallace was so obstructed by Carriages full of People to look at the Ladies who might pass on their Way, that there was no such thing as getting through. So we went through st James park and found no difficulty. Mr Humphryes attended us. Every thing is upon so independant a scale here that the attendance of a Gentleman is Considered almost unpolite. The Ladies, assume all the Roughness, and Assureance necessary to support them upon every occasion, and in General I think they look like Giant apes. But tho we found no difficulty till we got to the 2d room, here commenced such a scene as I was never, Witness to before. Their Majestys had gone in before we arrived. At the dore of the 2d room, I was, struck with the appearance of a figure which at first sight I took to be King Brant or Joseph Brant an Indian Cheif, who has, been here sometime from America. He was engaged against us in the late War. It is a matter of speculation what can be his erand here at present. Some suppose it is to get payd for the scalps he took in the War, and to get Compensation for his services. He has been presented to the King and Queen and has appeard at the drawing Room, in the dress of his Nation with that pretty plaything his Tommy Hawk in his hand. The Ladies admired his figure, and saw in his Countenance something Good. He has indeed been noticed by some People of importance. There was a feast made for him by, some Persons of distinction at Which the Company all were drunk, except himself. He observed it would not do for him to Get drunk in this Country, tho it would in his own. But to adone with Joseph Brant after telling you one anecdote more which is that Colln Smith was upon an expedition against him during the Ware when Brant and Butler had like to have been taken. He is celebratd for his Cruelty at Yomen. And to return to the Personage whom I was presented with, it was no less than the Minister from Tripoli, with two pages, dressd in the Habit of his Country a turban upon his Head and his long baird, and his dress otherwise as singular and such a dirty set of creatures I never saw. I was absolutely frightened. He is an addition to the singularity of the Corps diplomatick. I hear the Foreign Ministers donot intend to have any intercourse with him—but more of him by and by. At the entrance of the door of the third appartment where the drawing Room is held, I thought for all the World that I should have been squeezed to death between the post of the door, and half a dozen great Hoops. Indeed you can have no idea at all of the croud. I am sure I never was in such a one before. This you must suppose excellent for the Ladies dresses. We at last got into the room, and situated ourselvs, so that the King spoke to us very soon. He has askd me one question for these three Months—(do you get out much this weather) instructive, improving, indeed. After this ceremony was over we attempted to put ourselvs in the Way of the Queen, but the room was so croudd that was two Hours before we could find out in what part of it she was. Finally your Mamma was spoken to, and I made my escape as quick as I could. The King was very richly dressd the Queen very plain. The Prince of Waless cloaths were Coverd with silver. I dare not venture to say how much I heard they Cost, but I did not think them elegant. The Princesses were not so elegant as many other Ladies, present. The dressing were very various there was no prevailing Colour or fashion, everyone seemd to have exerted their own fancy. But such was the crowd that the floor was covered with fragments of triming and lookd as if the Ladies had been paling Caps. We got home at five, not a little fatigued but however as it was the first time we were told it was essential that we should go to the Ball, and as there were seats for the families of the Foreign Ministers and I had an inclination to see it we went. Pappa dined with Lord Carmarthen Mr Humphrys and Mr Smith with us. At half after seven we set off again, and arrived before the Ball Room was open, which was an advantage as we could get in before the croud. At the door of the Ball room we met the Master of the Cerimonies, Mr Cottril, who was very polite and seated us in the Foreign Box. There was no person in it except the Tripolian, who I described in the Morning, the singularity of Whose appearance attracted the eyes of all the Ladies. There was a Gentleman who was an interpreter to him, for he speaks not a Word of English. In describing the Ball room to you I shall easily find words to convey to you an idea of its elegance. Consert Hall is as much superior to it, as you can conceive, the room is as large again as Concert Hall. You know the palace was formerly an oald Abby and I suppose this was the Chapell. There is a galery above which is Called the Lord Chamberlins Box, where Persons are admitted as spectators. It is generally very crouded. As you enter the door upon the right hand is half a dozen rows of seats for the Lords and Ladies attending upon their Majesties. Upon the other side of the room, are the seats for the Foreign Ministers. At the Corner are seats for the Pearesseses. And upon the opposite side are seats for any Persons who may choose to go provided they wear a ball dress. For their is no distinction any body may go to the Ball—in bal dress—which is a singular arangment I think. These seats are all inclosed, by rails, and you are let in like a turnpike. Sir Clement Cottril Master of the Ceremonies, came and placed himself, next Mamma, as he said to keep the turnpike and to be sure it had the appearance, these rails, you see faced also the inclosure. At the Head, there were placed two oald Chairs for their Majesties. Before the seats of the Foreign Ministers were seats for the Ladies attending upon the Princesses, and before them were three seats, for the Prince of Wales and Princesses. Within this, were seats for the Ladies who were to dance. There were a Dozen I believe. In this way the Company were seated. A little before Nine the Prince came staggering in. I dont mean he was in Liquaur, but his manner was, careless drowliry. He chatted with the Ladies who were to dance. There is a good deel of good Humour in His Countenance and you know it is the fashion to think him the Criterion of perfection. At Nine their Majestys entered, with the 2 princesses. The Company all rose, the King and Queen went round the Circle and spoke to the Ladies who were to dance. When they Came to the seats of the Foreign Ministers, they spoke to the Spanish, who is a great favourite at Court as it is said, to the dutch and to the French. I was seated next del Campo who is allways very polite, and the King came Laughing and grining and addressd him as Mrs Wright say What What What What in a breath. At last they sat down, and the Company also. The Prince opened the Ball with the Princess Royal, and danced a second minuet with the princess Augusta after which there were many minuets danced, till I was quite tired. Each Gentleman and Lady when they came up to dance, made a bow and Curstey first to their Majestys, and then danced ther minuets, and I am sure without prejudice I have seen better minuets in America. The Princesses do not dance so well as many other Ladies. When the minuets were finished six People stood up as for County dances, the Prince and Princess Royal, at the Head. There were three dances danced and the Prince askd the Quen, if He shold be permitted to dance another, but She nodding dissent, the Royal Family retird at Eleven. At the 3d dance the Prince some how, I dont know how, had a fall, and the first that we saw was he Laed flat on his back. But fore we could think he recoved himself and continued, his dance. And now I must repeat that I have seen Gentlemen and Ladies dance better in America. But it would be dreadfull to say so, nor shold I be beleived so Ill save my opinion for some other time. We came away immediately, and got home 20 minutes past Eleven, drank tea and retired. And here you have an accout of the Birth day Ball. I hope it will amuse you. I am quite sattisfied I assure you with seeing it once, and am sure that my own inclination will never carry me there again, tho every thing was as we could have wishd. Mr Smith took Care of us.

      10–12 February

     Fryday Saturday and sunday, we were alone, and at home.

      Monday 13th of Feb.

     Mr Humphryes breakfasted with us and soon after sett off for Paris. He proposes returning to America in April, the reason he gives is that he has written to Mr Jay that he should return early in the Spring if he did not hear from him. Pappa advises him to stay till the expiration of his Commision which is not till june, but He thinks the season will be too far advanced and I believe, his real intention is to return and spend some time with General Washington to Collect what materials he can for, the History of America. At least from a Letter of the Generals Which He shew a friend: wherein this wish was exprest, I am led to judge it, and He told the same friend that He would go home and shut himself up for six months to write prose. He has risen much in our esteem, since this visit, and is a very worthy Good Man, not possessd of all the elegances of appearance, but has all the essentials of a Worthy character and is an amiable Man. We were much amused with his Wit and good Humour, and we shall miss him much. Mr Shot goes out with him to America. Mr Jefferson will be left alone.
     Mrs Bingham called upon us very early, to request Mamma to present her at Court on thursday, where I suppose she will make a figure. I went at twelve to visit, Call upon Mrs Roggers at Mrs Copelys, where she is setting for her picture. And in the Evening we went to Drury Lane Theatre, we took a Box a week ago, and offerd Mrs Rucker seats. This Evening we went, there were Mamma Pappa myself Mr Smith Mr and Mrs Rucker Miss Ramsay. Mrs R. is much disappointed by Mr Ruckers concluding to continue here 18 Months longer. She had made some great dependance upon returning this spring. The peices given were the Strangers at home, and the Romp. In both Mrs Jordon a favourite Actress playd a principle part. She is small, and pets the romp, in imitably. I never saw so much vivacity in any Countenance or in any action before. She received the greatest applause, and very deservedly. I think her stile of play is in Wild Characters, and She supports them better than any of the American Ladies, who displease you so much. The romp represents a young West Indian sent to England for her Education. Her Gaurdian prepares to Marry her to his as an oald Miser who has a Nephew who is a Grocer, and a fool, his Name is Potty. He
        makes Love to her and proposes going off with her. And she sees a young officer, who pleases her and she determines to run of with him. To affect this she proposed to go off with potty and to meet the Captain who is to take her from him and marry her himself, but in this she is detected and brought back to her Guardian. The Whole is very comick, and her Acting makes it very amusing. The Character as a West Indian is Well supported. She has a little Negro called Washeball, and her treatment of her is, quite, as a West I.

      Tuesday 14th.

     Agreeable to invitation we went to dine at Mr Blakes from Carolina. His family has been in this Country many years. He was in Boston about 18 Months since and would have purchased General Warens House at Milton but they differed in the Price. He is the first fortune in America. His income is fiteen thoussand, a year. Mrs Blake appears to be a worthy amiable Woman. She reminded me of aunt Smith in Person and manners. They have one Daughter about fifteen years oald. She is a pretty figure but not a handsome face, agreeable in her manners, plays vastly well, and draws very prettyly. They live very elegantly. The Company was, Pappa Mamma myself Mr Smith a Mr Hayward and Mr Gibbs, from Carolina and Mr Bridgen. The dinner was elegant and every thing very cleaver. Miss Blake playd to us after dinner. We sat till Nine and came home. They are regular Folks. Mrs B. does not seem to be fond of the kind of Life in vogue here. And we had no Cards.
     When we got home we found upon the table a budget of letters which kept us employd from Nine oclock to twelve in reading. You know the pleasure of such a feast. Yours No 9 10 11, gave me great pleasure. I shall indeed be very loth to give up, so much gratification but however, I leave you to act as your time will permit knowing that nothing but necessity will induce you to omit this attention. In my turn I will indeavour to be as Constant in my diary as I have been, and shall omit no opportunity when it is avoidable, for you have appeald to a very interested principle for desicion. I can write to you, always, and never take my pen, not knowing what to say but to my other Correspondents I am often at a loss, and sometimes neglect to write for want of a subject, or rather from not knowing what will please them. Pappa asks to see your journal, and I cannot refuse him. He appears allways gratified with it, and told me that he can excuse your not writing to him, as your diary to me is so particular and entertaining. He is often pleased when you have mentioned his oald friends. Mamma, derives equal pleasure from it, and says, you must not discontinue it: she cannot allow it, that you must spare half an hour a day to it, and When you get to Cambridge, you will have time enough to continue it. To me you must know my Dear Brother that it is one of the greatest Gratifications I can receive. You have been very good hithertoo and, I know if it is possible you will continue. Your observations upon Characters is not only entertaining but improving, and my pleasure must be lessened when you curtail your observations. Your letters I submit also, to the perusal, of Mr Smith, who is equally pleasd. Donot tell me I am wrong—you must not think so. He is interested in what gives me pleasure, and you would not refuse an opportunity to return it. He says sometimes that he will write you, and I believe it will not be long before you receive a letter. Mamma I suppose will tell you in what relation this Gentleman is Considered in this family, and you my Brother know that your approbation is dear to me. I will now begin and Notice your letters reguliarly.

      Wedensday, 15th.

     Mr Barthlemy and Mr and Mrs Bingham Called in the Evening they had dined with Lord Lansdown, and called to let us know it I suppose.

      Thursday, 16th.

     Mamma went to Court to present Madame Bingham—and Pappa presented Mr Chew. Mrs B. is comeing quite into fashion here, and she is gretly admired. The Hair dresser who dresses us upon Court days, inquired of Mamma whether she knew the Lady so much talkd of here from America—Mrs Bingham. He had heard of her from a Lady who saw her at Lord Lucans, where she was much admired. At last speaking of Miss Hamilton, he said, with a twurl of his Comb, Well it does not signify but the American Ladies to beat the English all to nothing. I did not attend her, for going to Court is not so agreeable to me. Perhaps, admiration might heigten the pleasure, but as it is what I never wishd nor have no pretentions to I shall not be mortified by silence: Mamma says, if admiration could make this Lady happy she must be so, for she never saw one so much stared at. There she goes cried one, what an elegant Woman, another as she passd. And some Gentlemen told mamma she had got to present one of the finest Women he ever saw. I dare say she is not void of vanity and if not must have been gratified. She is indeed a fine Woman.

     Thursday Eve Pappa went out to make some visits, and Mamma myself and Mr Smith were soberly seated at a Game of Cards when Mr Crawford, came in, and soon after Lady Juliana Pen. They passd, an hour and went of. But now to give you some account of a visit Pappa made this Evening. It was to no less a Personage than the Ambassador from Tripola. As the Foreign Ministers had many of them left Cards at his Excellencys door, Pappa thought proper to do so too, and as he was making a Number of visits in this Way, stopped at his door, intending only to leave a Card, but the servants announced his Turkship to be at home. So Pappa went in and by a little Italian and French with some Langua Franca, they got into Conversation, and understood each other wondrously. There were to pages present and a servant soon brought too long Pipes, one for Pappa and the other of Monsieur la Turke, with two cups of Coffe. Pappa took both and resting the bowl of the Pipe upon the floor, while the stem was in his mouth smoaked away, taking a sip of Coffe and a Whif at his pipe. The Abassador did the same. At last one of the secretaries cried out in ectacy, to Pappa—Monsieur vous etes un veritable Turk. When the pipe was out Pappa left him. We were much amused with this account of the visit.

      Sunday 19 February.

     The Ambassador from tripola sent a mesage to Pappa that he wished to return his visit in the same friendly stile which he had made his, and begd him to appoint an hour. At twelve they came, I only saw them getting out of the Coach. The Ambassador, was dressed as usual, and his secretary both as described in the former part of my letter. He brought with him an interpreter of his own, not choosing the one appointed by this Court. He was attended by two servants in the habit of their Country there dress was a kind of orange Colour, loose, tied round the Waiste, with a kind of turban on their heads, and sandals on their feet. He was here two Hours, but Pappa could not offer him a long Pipe, so that was dispenced with. This must not be communicated in America, something favourable may arrise from these Conferences. But we are not at liberty to say, what. Thus much I may say to you, as sacred, that the Treaties with the 4 states Algiers Morrocco Tripoli and Tunis will cost two hundred thousand Guineas, at least. The Ambassador is known to many of the Foreign Ministers and they all agree that he is a very good Man. There were several Gentlemen dined with us to day. Capt Lyde Mr Jenks, and a Capt Beaudinoit from NY, Mr Trumble and a Dr Lions, a virginian agreeable in his manners. He reminded me of Mr Short. Now you will laugh, and say I am always, finding resemblances, where they donot exist. I think that I can observe a simularity in the looks and manners of all the Virginians. The rest of our Company you know. In the Evening Pappa and Mr Smith went to see Dr Jebb, who has been confined for some time by indisposition and this Evening Poor Mrs Wright died. Her zeal I beleive for America, has ended her days.

      Monday 20th.

     Pappa and Mr Smith dined with Mr William Vaughan, and made a third visit in the Evening to his Turkship.

      Tuesday 21st.

     Coll Smith set off for Paris to persuade Mr Jefferson to come over upon matters of importance but his real erand is not to be made known here—it is upon the subject of the late Conferences. What arrangements they will produce I know not at present. The Baron de Linden called in the Evening. Did you ever see this Genious, he has strong traits of National Character, which are very appearant and he is profuse in nothing but Compliments which cost him nothing, not even a tax upon his sincerity, for they are not esteemed of more value by the receiver than the doner. He sat an hour, and drank tea parcque les belles mains du Mademoiselle le fait.

      Wedensday 22 February.

     In the Evening a Mr Peters from Philadelphia, who was formerly in the War office with your father and a friend of his, called upon us. He had just arrived, and this was the first visit he had made. His first appearance was not very promising, but he soon discovered the character which I had heard of him. He is rather rough in his manners, but he is sensible, and has a great del of Wit, which soon appeard, and made us very mery. It seems his erand to this Country is to see his father who has lived here many years, and he has one Brother who has been with him and has had influence enough over him in his oald age to induce him to make a Will so much in his favour, as to be very injurious to this Gentleman as well as all his other Chrildren and he has I think nine sisters. This Gentleman has been with him and dispairs of any alteration, which has made him very low spiritted, he says. He does not regret it for himself, because he is one of those extraordinary Men who think they have enough but it is for others that he is interested. He has not neither heard from his family since he left them, which Oh, Dear, When shall I hear from my Wife, said he, taking a packet he had just received out of his pocket to search for a letter and finding a very long one from some friend after looking it over, oh, I had rather have one line from my Wife than the Whole of these pages. Pappa told him he had been seperated from Madame 4 or 5 years. Ah said he you are a Politician and I am a domestick man, who takes pleasure only in my family. He made many good observations upon this Country, and would not live in it for half the Kingdom. Said he was disappointed he had thought more highly of it than he found it deserved. Pittied Pappas situation and advised him to go home. Scolded at Congress, at the states &c. He left us at Eleven.

      Thursday, 22d. i.e. 23

     Pappa went to the drawing Room, and afterwards to dine with Lord Carmarthen. Mamma was very much indisposed, all day.

      Fryday 23d. i.e. 24

     I went out in the Morning and called on Mrs Roggers, passd two hours with her, and then made a visit to Mrs Rucker, at the Adelphi. Mr R has determined to spend another year here, and Mrs R is much disappointed in not going home this Spring. Miss Ramsay is quite Sick of England, since she came from Paris, and they seem to be much retired. Mr Peters dined with us, and Pappa proposed going to the Play with him. The Carriage was ordered, but they got engaged in Conversation till it was too late, for we dine so late here that one must Hurry to be in season.

      Saturday 25th.

     Mamma and miself went and drank tea with Mrs Roggers.

      Sunday 26th.

     To-Day we had three Gentlemen to dine. Mr John Boylstone from Bath you know, He is a tired oald Bachelor, and was very sociable. A Capt Biglow from Boston and Mr Peters, who seems to be in a disagreeable situation of Mind, he calls it the Blue Devils. I never saw a Person so much agitated without any known cause. He told us after dinner that he felt much better for the Hermitage and Maderia, which he had drank. You ask in one of your letters about Pappas Wine. That from the Hague came very well and secure. But that from Paris got piladged at the Custom House and as much more as there was, above the quantity permitted to the Foregn Ministers we had to pay duties for, and it happend to the Wine ordinaire, which was intolerable. Pappa often recollects what you used to say, that when he got to England he wold think all his Wine good. Mr Boylstone inquired after, you. Pappa told him that you were gone home to go to Colledge. What said he as Professor of something I suppose. No, you was gone as a student to pass one year. Why he knows more than students Tutors, Governors and all. What he is gone to teach them then, and seemd very much surprizd and said you had begun at the wrong end first, and in his Way, payd your Honour these Compliments. He gave us some very pressing invitations to Come to Bath. Capt Biglow, I dont recollect having seen in Boston yet his Countenance was not that of a stranger.
     Mr Bingham called this Morn. There Baggage is all on Board and they are only waiting for a fair Wend. He made a declaration this Morning that if he got safely to America, there was nothing in this World that should induce him to come again to Europe. He was heartily sick and tired of a wandering Life and longed to get home and settled in Business. But after all I guess there was a mental reservation in all this—What think you!—I have lately heard that he is connected with some Houses in America which owed large sums to this Country. But there is no danger but he will take Care of himself.

      Monday, Feb 27th.

     We have had the last Night and it continues to day, as severe a snow storm as, we have in america at this season. The weather has been as cold since last tuesday so we have it with us, and the Wind East and so high, that it has been impossible to pass from Dover to Calais. Colln Smith has been detained there ever since tuesday, and there is no prospect of its discontinueance. It now snows with all violence. The weather for a forghtnight before was, as uncommonly fine. Indeed too warm to be agreeable for the season, which renders this sudden change particuliarly disagreeable.


Title: Mary Smith Cranch to Abigail Adams, 9 February 1786
From: Cranch, Mary Smith
To: Adams, Abigail

      My dear Sister
      Braintree February 9th 1786

     The vacancy is up and our Sons are just return’d to their Studies at college. Were they Brothers they could not be fonder of each other than they now are. They have spent eight or Ten days at Haverhill, and have rov’d about visiting their Friends till they both long’d heartily for the methodical Life they left at Cambridge. I have promiss’d them a chamber and a Fire too themselves if they should live to see another winter vacancy In which they may study as much as they please. It is impossible they should do it amidst the business of a Family. We have had our Hands full ever since they came home, for notwithstanding we mend their Linnen and stockings every week yet their other clothing wants abundance of repairing. Yesterday we loaded them away stores and all. Cousin charles says “Aunt I am sure you must hire a waggon, to convey us and our Baggage when we all get to college.” I know you wish to hear how cousin charles behaves. As well I believe as a youth possible can. I can neither hear off nor see any thing that looks like extravagance in him. He has the Love of his class and the approbation of his Tutors. He is exceedingly fond of mr James whos Freshman he is. I keep a good look out upon the children, and I think I am not deceiv’d in any of them. As for Cousin John, He has not lost his studious disposition by coming to america. I was almost affraid to let our children visit Haverhill this vacancy least it should interrupt him as I knew he had little time enough to prepair for his admission, but Mr Shaw Said they must come to inform him of some things, which he had forgot or never knew. Billy sat with him several nights till one o clock. He never retires for sleep till this Hour. He must not do so long, if he does he will soon wear out both Body and mind. Sister speaking of him in a Letter to me says, “He esteems knowledge as a hidden Treasure and searches it out a choice Gold: as one who expects to stand before Princes—Neither the Gaities of Life nor the most pressing invitations can allure him from the grand object he has in pursuit. He is as regular in his Division of time as a well regulated Clock. He has great strides to make in order to be receiv’d by the university as he wishes. For this purpose he woos the fair Goddess of Science with uncommon ardor, and never suffers himself to retire for rest till the clock strikes one. He has not I believe one vacant moment, and his Zeal and diligence has been exceedingly benificial to His Brother Tommy. He finds that his Brother is highly esteem’d by all for the closeness of his application to things of the greatest importance and that he himself is daily reaping the advantage of it.” Judgeing you by my self my dear sister, I thought I could not more acceptably fill my Paper than by transcribing the above: If mr Williams begins his lectures in March Cousin will enter then if he does not he will omit it till April.
     Betsy has not yet return’d from Haverhill she and all our Freinds were well last week. Mr and Mrs Allen were well also. She is as Happy I beleive as she expected to be and he much more so if I may judge by his recommending the state to those who have not yet enterd it.
     Captain Leyde sail’d about twenty four days since. It is not likely he has reach’d London yet. I hear by mr Storer that mrs Palmer has written to my Niece upon the subject she wish’d no one to write to her upon. She ask mr Storer if the report was true, said that mr —— was terrible hurt but was intirly ignorant of the cause of her conduct and had written to her to know what had caus’d such a change in her mind. “That mr was as worthy a young Fellow as liv’d. That he had a great deal of business and was very attentive to it. That he had many enemies but did not know who they were. That Somebody had been writing against him, and had influens’d her to do as She had done.” He suspects me mr Storer told me. I am more thankful than ever that I have been so cautious in what I said about him. If you look over your Letters I think you will find that I have not written any thing with a design to lessen him in your Esteem. I have never willingly misrepresented any thing. As to his oddities I do not mind them I am too much us’d to them to care any thing about them but I should were I connected with him. I hear several piople have told him that they have heard that the connection is broke between him and a certain Lady. He denys it and says tis only a story rais’d by her D—sh relations. The letters nor any thing else are yet deliver’d up. I am told that neither Miss Gray nor miss Braadstreet could ever get their Letters from him. He is now I am told erecting a very large wind-mill: tis to be set by the schoole House mr Prat is Fraiming it. I hear also that he is going to housekeeping in the spring, in his own House. Mrs Vesey is to keep it. Servants he has already at mrs Veseys. Mrs church has hire’d mrs Veseys House. All this I hear abroad not a word of it have I heard from him. I wonder if he thinks he mortifies us by such an air of secrecy. He is most certainly mistaken we have not a wish to know his business any further than to be able to serve him. We are very civil to each other but nothing more. He eats his breakfast at home, and we seldom see him again till after Eleven at night.—Mrs Church is an agreable woman, and keeps a very good Table.
     I wish there was a Law against Grog Shops that was sufficient to prevent any being set up. They are sinks of scandle. If they would make people cautious they might do some good but if they do not they had better never exist. I do not know a Town where there are any of them in which a Gentleman can gallant a Lady and be very particular to her, if her Husband is absent or present, but what her character will be tore to peices in them.
     I hope you will keep this Letter in your strong Box and I beg you would do the same by those I sent by Lyde, for although I have not said any thing but what is true, yet if my Niece should change her mind she would always think I ought to have been silent: and had I thought she could have been anything like happy with one of his peculiar Temper I should have been. I have been as much if not more concern’d about you through the whole affair than her. I wrote to you once to beg you to let mr. Adams know his true character that if he should not be such as he expected to find him: that he might not blame you for decieving him but I burnt it. I was affraid to send it, and my dear Neice has sav’d us all by her prudent conduct and whether she perseveres or not she shall always find me an affectionate Friend. Next to my own children those of my sisters are dearest to me and as they increase in years I find my affection increase also.
     A vessal has arriv’d from London she has had a Passage of twenty nine days only but not one Letter can I hear off for us. I am sadly dessapointed. I hope there is another not far behind which has a large Pacquet for us. I have been concern’d least this vessall should slip away without a line for you. I have been so busy I could not write before.
     We all din’d with your Brother Adams last week your mother Hall looks very well for so aged a person. The Family were all well.
     Weymouth have given Mr Evans a call. They are better united than I ever expected they, would be. He is a worthy sinsible man much of a gentleman and as spritly as our dear Father was and his composetion not unlike his. He is very Pathetick. His ruling Passion is benevolence. He has seen much of mankind being chaplain in the Army during the whole of the war has given him an opportunity of studying human nature. He is a good Bell Letter Schooler and is exceeding fond of Sterns writings. I believe he can repeat every fine Sentiment in them. He brought Hulda Kent here and was keept by a Storm from returning above three days. He is quite a Domestick man and we spent our time very agreably.
     Mrs Alleyne has been here this afternoon. She found me writing and desires me to give her Love to your Familly. Mrs Hunt says pray give my kind Love to her and tell her I have seen her a Hundred times since she went away, “but I wish she was Bodyly in her own House,” pray say something about her she is always asking if you have not.
     Do you remember Hannah Nightingale who wanted a gown that look’d like a rainbow. She is Divorcd from her Husband. He has turn’d her almost naked and near lying in upon this town. He is a sad Fellow and she is not a good woman.
     I wish you would send a Peice or two of Linnen for your sons and some course enough for Drawers &c. They are very high here now, course Linnen is sold at vendue for twenty per cent above the sterling cost. How is cambrick with you? We cannot get any fit to wear under sixteen shillings or three Dollars a yard. We have taken the Piece of unglazed for your Sons. I hope we have done right.

     Uncle Quincy has his Health much better this winter than the last. Our Germantown Friends are well as usual, their affairs yet in great uncertainty.
     I design to write again by cap callahan. He will sail the last of this month. Yours affectionatly

      Mary Cranch


Title: Charles Storer to Abigail Adams, 12 February 1786
From: Storer, Charles
To: Adams, Abigail

      Dear Madam
      Boston. 12th. February. 1786

     Times without number have I been questioned on the history you communicated to me just before I left London, and which I touched upon in my last, by Capn: Lyde. I find that all our friends are anxiously interested in the matter, and I must confess I find in my heart to join with them. Though we all highly applaud what has lately been done, yet many are fearfull of an accommodation. “The Gentleman talks of going to England, the Lady has been deceived by some ill-natured friend and prejudiced against him, she was once partially fond of him, may there not remain a tender sentiment that will plead in his behalf, he is artfull and insinuating, may she not swerve from her new resolution.” Thus concludes almost every Conversation on the subject, and I know but one person (a lady) of all our acquaintance and I might say more too, who wishes it might so happen. I have been at Haverhill since my last, where I was closeted by Mrs: Shaw. She was much pleased with the little information I was able to give her, and was willing to draw pleasing inferences from it. She in return, and also several other friends have let me into the history of the transactions on this side of the water: so that I have now a pretty good idea of the affair. It appears to me altogether a Farce. I cannot call it anyway a Tragedy, however serious some, who are concerned, may think it, for I am sure the catastrophy will be no more than a Puff, at least on one side, and on neither side do I think there will be much harm done: on the contrary I am inclined to think there will be good.
     Here now Charles, you will say, is a page and an half on a subject that you have no business with. Indeed, Madam, I have as much as other friends, and the Communication you made to me in London gives a degree of right to say thus much. I would by no means abuse your Confidence, however; for I esteem it highly flattering. Pardon me therefore upon the principle that I meant no harm.
     I mentioned having been at Haverhill, and have to add that I am extremely pleased with Mrs: Shaw. Her friendly reception was highly flattering, and so agreable to my own feelings, that, though the family were all strangers to me, I felt myself as much at home as I should in Grosvenor-Square. John I found as studious as an Hermit. Though he is not a very early riser, yet “he trims the midnight taper,” and that’s the only way to become a great man, as Mr: Adams told me once. He is to pass examination next April, and wishes it over, as also that he was already through College. Charles I saw a few days ago at Braintree for the first time since my return. He bids very fair. I hope he will call on us when he comes to town, at least I have invited him. But I should have mentioned Son Thomas, tho’ I might easily overlook him, since I did not know him at Haverhill. He was somewhere in the room without my recognising him, for he has not the least resemblance to any one of your family. Mr: Shaw speaks well of him and says he is a very good Boy. Thus you have the history of all the family. I might however among the number mention Betsey Smith, who is a clever, fine Girl.
     Before I close I would mention to you that I have paid the 5. Guis:, you were kind enough to lend me, to Dr: Tufts, and also that he has received the 12. Guis: due from Dr: Crosby to Mr: Adams. I hope Dr: T. will write you respecting his Commission tho’ I am sorry he has not better accounts to give you. “At it again, Charles?” No, Madam, therefore pray do not be angry with Yrs:

      C. S.


Title: Abigail Adams 2d to Elizabeth Cranch, 14 February 1786
From: Adams, Abigail (daughter of JA and AA)
To: Cranch, Elizabeth,Norton, Elizabeth Cranch

      No 5
      Grosvenor Square Feb 14th 1786

     Mr Smith informed me last Evening of an opportunity of writing by Way of N York and as I know of no immediate Conveyance to Boston I shall accept it to acknowledge the receipt of your two last letters by Capts Cushing, and Lyde, and to assure you that tho I have been negligent of writing, I have not been unmindfull of my friends. Indeed I have several times attempted writing you and have began several letters: but I could not please myself, nor produce any thing worth your perusal so I threw them aside, and have not writen for many Months. “Yorick says it is not every hour nor day of ones life that is a fit season for the duties of friendship, sentiment is not all ways at hand—and without sentiment what is friendship.”
     Contentment and Happiness my Dear Eliza I begin to think more in our own power than we often suppose, and that they are immediately dependant upon the arangements of our own Minds. Surely it is best to look on the bright side of every subject, and there are none that will not admit of some Consolation, and if our happiness is often ascertained by Comparison with the situations of others, as is sometimes said, and I believe in some instances with truth, you and I my friend have but little cause to be otherwise. If we look into the circle of our own acquaintance we shall find but few who have less cause for unhappiness than we. Tis true that a benevolent heart is ever sensible to the sufferings of those around it, and when it is not in our power to releive those, we are in a degree unhappy. But it would be wrong, to embitter our own Lives by this want of power. If we do as much as our ability enables us, we must be Content with the reflection. We sometimes Complain of the unfeelingness of the World, but we may generally find, some trait in every character to admire. Why not please ourselvs with those, and pass over their foibles in silence. They are not injurious to us, but to themselvs. Happiness must result from Contentment and Contentment arrises from our sattisfaction with ourselvs. From this scource you must be happy, and I am sure you can never have cause to be otherwise, because the rectitude of your heart precludes the Possibility.

     On your list of Marriages the precipitancy of Miss A——s was a little suprizing. You ask what I think of sudden Matches; I am not fond of extremes of any kind and it appears to me that a delicate mind must revolt at the idea of forming a Connection in which its happiness is so greatly dependant, so very precipitately, and with a Gentleman who was a perfect stranger, not only to herself and family, but to her Country. Indeed to tell you the truth what excites my surprize more than any thing is that the Ladies of our Country should be so fond of Connecting themselvs with Foreigners. If the Gentleman had been an Americin whose Character was known and approved it would have been a very different case. But we sometimes see persons who on the other Hand Consider, and reconsider, and delay, till they are doubtfull what they would do. I join with you in wishing Mrs N happy; you justly say let us not pretend to determine what will make another so.
     I have a Letter by Lyde from Mrs Russell wherein she tells me that she is the Happiest of Mortals, and I am allways gratified to hear this acknowledgement from my friends in whatever degree they make it. I was glad to hear that your visit to Haverhill was so agreeable to you, a knowledge of Musick with so good a taste for it as you have, must be a scource of pleasure, and prove a great amusement. That you found a sattisfaction in the society of my Brother I can never doubt, I know him capable of contributing to the happiness of his friends, and I am sufficiently sensible of his worth to regret his absence, but it was for the best. The seperation of our Family has been the greatest, I may say only cause for anxiety that I ever knew, and I see no prospect that it is to be otherwise, for any length of time in future. My Brothers are now of an age when their education would prevent their being with us if we were in America. When they leave Colledge it is probable that their future persuits will engage most of their attention. But there would be times when we should meet and enjoy each others society, which we are now debared from. As to myself Eliza I am equally uncertain as to my future movements. How long I may be continued in Europe is impossible to say. I make no arangements beyond the present period, and shall take every thing as it arrises, and derive great sattisfaction from knowing my Conduct and my sentiments meet the approbation of my friends.
     Were I to tell you how much I often wish for you, it would I am sure increase your desire of visitting us. A sister I was never blessd with and for near two years I have had no intimate, or Companion. My happiness would have been greatly augmented by the society of a female friend, it would have sweetened many a lonely hour. Society here is not as with us. A large acquaintance is unavoidable but at the same time you meet with none of that friendly social intercource which sweetens Life. Forms, and ceremony are considered so essential that they have become universal, and you may make ten visits in a Morning every day in the week and I would venture to say, you would not find one Lady in a day at home. It is not that they would be out of their Houses, but they are never visible unless you are invited to dinner or to Evening visits, where you are set down to Cards as soon as possible, and it is unavoidable. There are several very amiable American Ladies here, who are not attached to the follies predominant. Mrs Roggers is a very amiable friendly Woman, her greatest pleasure seems to be in obliging her friends. There is, I find, from my observations, upon others, some thing strangely facinating in Europe, and I have seen but very few of either sex who do not quit it with regret. I think myself perfectly safe upon this subject and I can assure you that I am well convinced my happiness is not to be promoted by the amusements Conveniences or Gayeties of Europe. I should be gratified to pass a few years in visitting many parts of it, but I would not Consent upon any Conditions to settle here for Life, and I shall look forward with pleasure to the period when I may return. Tho I may form transient acquaintances who may be capable of amusing, and with whom I may be gratified, the ties of relationship, the friends of my earliest years, cannot be replaced. I feel an interestedness in whatever concerns them, that cannot be excited by those I may form at this distance. But do not suppose my Dear Eliza that there may not be some one individual that may interest my Mind, and whom my judgment and reason may approve—but this may prove an additional incitement to my return to America. But I shall Confess too much if I dont take care, least I should I subscribe myself yours affectionately,

      Amelia