Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 4 August 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir,
War Department 4th. August 1798—

The more I contemplate the detail of organizing the twelve regiments of Infantry, to be raised; the more I percieve the difficulty of effecting it, with a dispatch proportioned to the emergency, and to the Public expectation. If the course is to be, first to concenter information in this department, from all quarters of the United States; then to digest an arrangment, to communicate it to you for your determination, to recieve back, that determination, and then to transmit the result to the Parties; a great and incalculable portion of time must be consumed. These reflections have led me to think of an expedient, which I now submit. It is this; That the arrangment for the four Eastern States, and Vermont, be made under your immediate direction, commanding the aid, if necessary, of Major General Knox, and Brigadier General Brooks, who reside, within those States. That the arrangment for New–York, Pennsylvania New–Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland, be prepared by myself, with the aid of the General Officers, within those States, for your final determination: and that General Washington be requested, to take charge of preparing the arrangment (including the Cavalry) for the States further South, with the like aid of the General Officers in that quarter; subject also, to your eventual determination.
The distribution of the twelve regiments, (for this purpose) which I beg leave to propose, is—four to be raised, within the States of New– Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Vermont; four within the States of New–York, New–Jersey, Pennsylvania Delaware, and Maryland; four within the States of Virginia, Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Georgia.
Should difficulties occur, in completing the organizaton collectively, it may be advisable, to permit it, by regiments successively, so as to, enable me, to put in motion the recruiting service, as fast as possible. With respect to the companies, to be added to, the existing regiments of Infantry, the Officers for them, may be arranged hereafter, without injury to the recruiting service.
To facilitate the arrangment, in the mode I propose, (if it shall appear an eligible one) I enclose a list of all the officers of the late Army, in the lines of the five States, first mentioned, (Vermont excepted, which at that time made a part of the State of New–York) and also, of all the applications for military appointments, by persons within those states; which have hitherto been made to this department. I have also sent to Major General Knox, and Brigadier General Brooks, a list of Candidates, and requested them to transmit to you, their observations and remarks &c and enclose a copy of my letter to them.
It is perhaps my duty to add, as the result of conferences, with the Commander in Chief, and the Inspector General, united with my personal knowlege of some of the characters, that the following Gentlemen of the late army have appeared peculiarly worthy, of consideration for the command of regiments, Viz—Lemuel Trescot, David Cobb, and William Hall of Massachusetts, Jeremiah Olney, Henry Sherburne, and William Peck of Rhode Island Henry Dearborn, and Nicholas Gilman of New–Hampshire. I think it necessary to mention, that Mr. Tracy writes me, Colonel Talmadge, will not refuse attending to the call of his Country, he will expect the Rank of Brigadier General, or to be Adjutant General, in the event of that office becoming vacant: I can safely add, that he is a Soldier of experience and deserved reputation. Elijay Wadsworth of Litchfield, may also deserve attention; he was a Captain of Dragoons the last war, served with reputation, and I am persuaded, would make a good Major of Infantry.
As no other intimation of the plan now proposed has been given by me, to the two General Officers, in the Eastern States; than what is contained in my letter to them; You may think it proper, (if the plan is approved) to require their attendance, to aid in the arrangment.
There is another point of some importance, which I take the liberty to submit to your deliberation. I find myself plunged, in a vast mass of details, and know from experience, that it is impossible, for any man, whatever be his talents, to wade through it, without neglecting perhaps, the most material objects, or attaching to his operations, more or less feebleness, and sloth of execution. It is essential to the success, of the Minister of a Great Department, that he be enabled to subdivide the objects of his care, distribute them among competent assistants, and content himself with a general, but vigilant superintendance. This course is always the best, but it becomes particularly necessary, when an unforeseen emergency, has suddenly accumulated a number of new objects, to be promptly provided for, and executed.
Is it possible, that one man, can do justice, to all the details, indispensible to the formation of Contracts, for provisioning the old, and new army, to the Contracts or modes, for supplying the Troops to be raised with clothing, to the Contracts for arms, and accoutrements, to the arrangments for arsenals, and laboratories, to the instructions to their Conductors, to investigations necessary, for enabling him, to fix upon a national standard for our Ordnance, a system of exercise, and regulations for the artillery, and Engineer Corps, and a system of tactics and discipline for the army at large, determine upon plans for fortifications, for our harbours, and give instructions to Agents, or the best qualified of our Officers, to superintend their erection, organize the new regiments, distribute their Officers on recruiting parties, designate their several places of rendezvous, recieve the returns, and issue all the orders necessary to the recruiting service &c &c and at the same time carry on, the permanent duties of the Department, and the varied correspondences, relative to these.
I hope Sir, after considering, this summary view, of a part of my business, that you will give me leave to call effectually to my aid, the Inspector General, and likewise General Knox; and to charge them with the management of particular branches of the service. I have already taken the liberty, to request, the Inspector General, to occupy himself in preparing, from materials with which I have furnished him, a system of Tactics, and Discipline. It will be proper also, as incident to the office of Inspector, that I should charge him with superintending the recruiting service, and make him auxiliary in other ways, to the business of the Department. Major General Knox, if I am permitted, to draw him, to the Seat of Government may be rendered extensively useful, especially in whatever relates to the Ordnance.
You will percieve that the above proposition, involves an abandonment of the plan for suspending the emoluments, of these Officers. They cannot afford, to give their time, and attention, to the Public, without compensation, neither ought it, to be expected, or required.
If these suggestions meet with your approbation, it will make me extremely happy; not merely because, the aid of these Gentlemen, will serve to lighten my burdens, or divide my responsibility but because I am convinced, the subdivision of the great objects intrusted to me, among such competent assistants, is necessary, to facilitate their prompt execution, and cannot but promote the Public service.
I enclose a letter from General Washington, dated the 29th. Ulto. You will see that he feels, the want of a Secretary and it appears to me it would be proper, I should signi– to him, that he may appoint one. I think such an appointment authorized by the 5th sect. of the Act, for raising the Provisional Army.
In consequence of the numerous applications, to supply the Volunteer Companies, raised, and raising for the Provisional Army—I have thought it prudent to answer in the following terms; to several late applications—which I trust will meet with your approbation—“I am pushing the fabrication of arms, at Springfield, erecting another manufactory, and entering into Contracts, for some thousands of muskets; but untill I can make sure of a number, equal to the probable wants of such an army, as may be necessary to our defence, I must be extremely cautious, in parting with any of the arms now in Magazine. I would therefore rather decline giving much encouragment to the Volunteer Company, to expect a loan, unles it should be rendered indispensible by an approaching invasion.”
The Yellow fever has again, not only appeared, but made so alarming a progress in this City—that in my opinion, it will be necessary, immediately to move the Public offices—It is contemplated to remove them to Trenton. I write the last paragraph the 7th. of August, having waited for some of the intended inclosures, which are not yet copied, but will be forwarded as soon as possible.
I am Sir / with the greatest respect / your most obedient / very humble servant.

James McHenry


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

Sir,
Department of State Augt. 4. 1798.

I had yesterday the honor of sending the copy of Mr. Gerry’s letter of May 13th: I now inclose a copy of his letter of May 12th referred to in the former; but have not been able yet to decypher his letter of April 20th. to M. Talleyrand: it shall be done and forwarded in the next mail.
I also inclose a commission for the person you shall be pleased to appoint a Commissioner under the 6th article of the British treaty, in the room of Colo. Innes deceased: and am, / with great respect, / sir, your obedient servant
Timothy Pickering


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

(private)
Sir,Philadelphia Augt. 4. 1798.

I recollect you proposed to appoint Samuel Sitgreaves Esqr. to fill the place of Colo. Innes; and perhaps this has proceeded so far as to be unalterable; for I think I heard that it had been proposed to him, & that it would be gratefully accepted. I do not know that a fitter person, who would accept the office, could be appointed. I am convinced it will require a person of equal boldness and firmness properly to oppose Mr. McDonald, who is all in all on the other side; and who is I believe sufficiently assuming—if not overbearing: His proper antagonist would be a gentleman of Mr. Sitgreave’s readiness, spirit and fortitude: perhaps the collision might sometimes produce a little fire.—But I beg leave just to remind you of other names, for consideration—Theo. Parsons, & Fisher Ames:—Mr. Lee has just mentioned Richard Potts of Maryland, the late Senator, whom you well know.—I have not time to add but that I am very respectfully / sir your most obt. servt.

Timothy Pickering[Joseph Thomas, the lawyer, is just detected in having forged notes & checks to the amt. of $60,000.!]


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

Sir
Department of State Augt. 6. 1798.

I have now the honor to inclose a copy of Mr. Gerry’s letter of April 20. to M. Talleyrand, which completes communication of every thing new received from him. A copy of his letter of May 13th I sent by last Friday’s mail; and a copy of his letter of May 12th by Saturday’s mail.
Several cases of the yellow fever have occurred.
I am with great respect, / Sir / your most obt. servt.

Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Samuel B. Malcom, 6 August 1798
From: Malcom, Samuel B.
To: Adams, John

Sir—
New York August 6th 1798

The injury, which I received on my right hand, prior to your leaving this City, has superceded every attempt until the present to congratulate you and your Lady on your Safe arrival at Quincy—
The only foreign Advices lately received are those from the Eastward, suggesting the receipt of dispatches from Mr Gerry, that he remained at Paris on the 27th of May, but contemplated shortly to depart for this Country—
It is a subject of regret for me observe that a disposition corresponding with that which marked my gracious reception here, continues to be still manifested by a proportion of my Countrymen— A consciousness of having never offered either an individual or general offence (except an unequivocal submission of my political opinions upon all occasions; combined with some other particulars, strongly induces the beleif that this Malignant temper, owes its origin to a source which I have ever declared polluted, and become restive under the aggravations of disappointment conception or envy—
However degrading to humanity to have even color for the beleif, and particularly offensive to my feelings as a Citizen of this State to express the conviction, yet Sir, I will not now withold from you my impressions of what you have more than once suggested, that we have in our bosom a powerful faction willing and ready to grant the most favorable reception— to our Enemies;— Characters “who would owe their greatness to their Country’s ruin”— Notwithstanding however, their treasonable invitations and encouragement, I find consolation in the probable counteraction of their schemes, from a Change of sentiment, particularly among our Merchants who heretofore were disposed to treat insinuations of danger as Chimerical, and formed designs upon our Independence as extravagant and idle— To this class of our Community we are indebted for our present embarassment—
I feel a particular pride in stating the generous emulation, and active Military exertions, obtaining among our Young Men, who are destined with others I beleive to prove, that they are to be the pledge and support of our Liberties and rights—
The mail being about to depart, I have truly to request your indulgence for these hasty Lines, and with my most respectful compliments to your Lady to subscribe my self your most / Obt / Humble Sevt

Saml. B. Malcom


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 7 August 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State August 7th. 1798.

Some days before you left Philadelphia, I mentioned to you the petition of John Scotchlar, who had been convicted at a late Circuit court in Boston of a larceny, for which he had been sentenced to pay a fine and to be whipped; and that to avoid the indelible disgrace to himself and family of receiving the corporal punishment was the object of his petition. You were inclined to remit this punishment, but before a formal act of pardon was granted I thought it would be proper to learn the true state of his case from the district Attorney of Massachusetts, & the Marshal, to whom I wrote accordingly, and whose answers I have now the honor to inclose. That of the district Attorney was so satisfactory, I could not doubt of your exercising towards Scotchlar the power of pardoning vested in you by the Constitution; and therefore I have procured from Mr. Rawle the draught of an act of pardon to be submitted to you. If the act receives your signature you will be pleased to return it to have the seal of the U. States affixed. To avoid delay I should gladly have put the seal to the instrument before transmitting it: but the act is explicit, That the seal shall not be put to any commission “before the same shall have been signed by the President of the United States, nor to any other instrument or act, without the special warrant of the President therefor.”
I have the honor to be / with great respect / sir, / your most obt. servt.

Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Elbridge Gerry, 8 August 1798
From: Gerry, Elbridge
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Havre 8th August 1798

I propose to embark for the United States this day, & have only a moment to inform you that Mr Skipwith will transmit you from Paris the letters which passed between the minister of foreign affairs & myself, just before my departure from that city—
The aspect of affairs between the two republicks is very pacific at present on this side the Atlantick; God grant it may be so on my arrival the other side of it.
Pray present me in the most friendly terms to Mrs. Adams & be assured I remain / Dear Sir with respect your friend / & huml sert

E. Gerry


Title: To John Adams from James Greenleaf, 8 August 1798
From: Greenleaf, James
To: Adams, John

Sir
Philadelphia Augt. 8. 1798

By the demise of Mr Innes, the Office of Commissioner for Liquidating the claims of British Citizens under the Treaty, has become vacant. My long acquaintance with the arbitration of Exchanges, and with the most complicated & difficult modes of Account keeping both in Europe and America, would, I presume, enable me to fill the place of the late Mr. Innes, with becoming ease and propriety—I beg therefore, Sir, you would have the goodness to consider me as among the candidates for the Office in question, unless it should have already pleased you to dispose differently of my services—
Should the circumstance of my present residence in the State of which the other Commissioner (Mr Fitzsimons) is a Citizen, present itself as an objection to my appointment, it will have no weight when it is considered that I have the right of suffrage as Citizen in no State unless neither of the States except perhaps in that of Maryland—
I have the honor to be / Sir / Your respectfully devoted / and Obedient Servant

James Greenleaf


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 8 August 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State Augt. 8. 1798

The inclosed letter from Huberd Rees of Claremont County, So. Carolina, I received to-day, and with great pleasure forward it, with the address from the people of that county to You and both Houses of Congress expressing such just sentiments of the “perfidious” French Republic, and of duty towards their own country.
I have the honor to be / most respectfully / sir, your obt. servant
Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 8 August 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

(private)
Sir,Philadelphia Augt. 8. 1798.

I recollect your once expressing to me your uneasiness that nothing had then been effected towards raising the additional corps of Artillery. Since that time Congress have authorized the raising forthwith twelve additional regiments of Infantry and six troops of horse. Little seems to be done in this business; which excites real uneasiness in the minds of those who know the fact and consider the serious mischief of delay. Permit me therefore to suggest (which I do with the privity of Mr.Wolcott) that the Inspector General, and Major General Knox, be called into immediate service, to aid the Secretary of War in the essential arrangements for the army to be raised,—for instance, the recruiting service—the artillery and army— Equipage—and cloathing; to which add, a plan of tactics and discipline to be prepared by the Inspector General. These arrangements are urgent—and we both think will fail, to the injury of the country and reproach of the Government, unless the Inspector General & Major General Knox be called into immediate service, for the objects before mentioned.
I began this letter before I knew that Mr. McHenry had written you on the subject—I have just sent for his chief clerk to enquire, Mr. McHenry being sick.
I am most respectfully / Sir your obt. servt.

T. Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Dexter, 8 August 1798
From: Dexter, Samuel,Marshall, Thomas
To: Adams, John

Sir,
August 8th, 1798.

To have the best government in the world, and that government administered in the best manner, is the distinguished lot of our happy nation. Ever since the adoption of the constitution we have felt its benign effects; but in an increased, and increasing degree of late; since all have now learned the important lesson, to respect themselves, and despise foreign influence. This we owe, in a high degree, to your wisdom and patriotism. No longer ignorant of the devices of our enemies, acquainted with their true character, and with the means of defeating their nefarious designs, union and fortitude, we are persuaded, will be our impenetrable shield.
In the town of Weston, Sir, there are no disorganizers. When called to elect public men, our suffrages, upon every occasion, have proved our federalism: and we pray you to be assured, that, while we shall continue firm in the cause of our country, and be ready to defend it upon all emergencies, we shall not cease to implore the Supreme Governour of the universe to “think upon you for good, according to all you have done for this people.”

Samuel DexterThos. MarshallSamuel KendalIsaac JonesArtemas WardAmos BancroftCaleb HaywardIn Behalf of a number of the Inhabitants of Weston


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Dawes, 9 August 1798
From: Dawes, Thomas
To: Adams, John

Sir
Boston 9th August 1798

I have been informed in a respectful tho’ not official manner that the President of the United States had appointed me one of the Commissioners for Assessing the Direct Tax. Could any thing induce me to accept the appointment it would be the consideration of its coming from the most elevated citizen of my country and from a character whom I hope to be indulged in saying I have venerated for thirty years. But I am restained from accepting this appointment by circumstances of Age and by those engagements the recital of which would be uninteresting to a person so highly occupied as your Excellency must be at this period. I had intended, Sir, to wait personally upon you: but have considered the probability of your being much pressed with company so soon after your return: and as my son Judge Dawes, has offered to be the bearer of this written expression of my mind,  I hope that it will be recieved as not less respectful than my own personal attendance upon your Excellency which I am inclined to defer until a season of your greater leisure
I am with all due respect and esteem Your / Excellency’s obliged and obedient Servant

Thos Dawes


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 10 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

10. August 1798

Instructions to the Commanders of Armed Vessels belonging to the United States:—given at Philadelphia, the tenth day of July in the Year of our Lord one thousand, seven hundred and ninety eight, and in the Twenty third Year of our Independence
In pursuance of the Acts of Congress passed the twenty eighth day of May, the twenty eighth day of June, and the ninth day of July.
You are hereby, authorized instructed, and directed, to subdue, seize, and take, any armed French Vessel, or Vessels, sailing under authority, or pretence of authority, from the French Republic, which shall be found within the Jurisdictional Limits of the United States, or elsewhere on the high Seas, and such captured Vessel, with her Apparel Guns and Appurtenances, and the Goods and Effects, which shall be found on board the same, together with all French Persons, and others, who shall be found acting on board, to bring within some Port of the United States; And also to retake any Vessels, Goods and Effects of the United States, or persons resident therein, which may have been captured by any French Vessel; In Order that Proceedings may be had concerning Capture, or Recapture, in due form of Law, and as to right shall appertain
By Command

Ben Stoddert Secy of the Navy.


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

Sir
Quincy augt. 10. 1798

I received yesterday your favor of the 2d. I have considered the petition of Warrall and return you his pardon signed.—The copies of the Instructions and dispatches I have received. I will thank you to send me a Copy or two of the Laws of the last Session compleat.—
I have the Honor to be Sir / yr mo Obt.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 10 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy Augt 10. 1798

I received yesterday your letter of the third of this month.—The Commissions inclosed I return signed, and approve of the List of officers.—The Heat of the weather from the day I left Philadelphia, has been excessive, and continues so to this moment.—
I am Sir / yr. mo. obt & hume. Servt,

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 10 August 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

post 10 August 1798

The inclosed recd. Augt. 10. 1798. and forwarded by the President’s most obt. servant

T. Pickering


Title: From John Adams to William Henry Harrison, 11 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Harrison, William Henry

To the Inhabitants of the Town of Cincinnati and its Vicinity in the Northwestern Territory
Gentlemen
Quincy August 11th 1798

I have received and read with much pleasure your unanimous address of the 29th of june. I agree with you, that in the ordinary Course of Affairs interpositions of popular Meetings to overawe those to whom the management of Public affairs are confided will seldom be warranted by discretion, or found compatable with the good order of Society. but at a Period like this there is no Method more infallible to determine the Question whether the People are or are not united. Upon no Occasion in the History of America has this mode of Discovery and ascertaining the Public opinion, been so universally resorted to. And it may be asserted with Confidence, that at no Period of the Existance of the United States have Evidences of the Unanimity of the People been given, so decided as on the present Question with France.
the People of this Country the most remote from the seat of Government and Center of information as well as those in its Neighbourhood have at length discovered that they are Americans and feelingly alive to the Injuries committed against their Country, and to the indignities offered to their Government. Upon ourselves only we ought to depend for safety and defence. this Maxim however, by no means forbids us to avail ourselves of the advantages of Prudent and well guarded Concerts with others exposed to common dangers. Animated with sentiments like yours, our Country is able to defend itself against any Enemies that may rise up against us.
Nothing can be more flattering to me than your assurances of Confidence in this perilous Hour. and nothing could mortify me so much, as that you should ever have reason to beleive that your confidence has been misplaced. In return for your prayers for my personal Happiness, I sincerely offer mine for the Prosperity of the Northwestern Territory in common with all the United States.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Spencer, 11 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Spencer, Oliver

To the Inhabitants of Hamilton County in the Territory of the United States Northwest of the River Ohio
Gentlemen
Quincy August 11th 1798

I thank you for your Address of the 4th of July which has been forwarded to me by Colonel Spencer, signed by your officers as you requested.
That auspicious day on which the United States took a rank among the Nations, which they have maintained with Dignity and Honor for two and twenty years, was well chosen to take into consideration the Horrid depredations committed on the Property of your fellow Citizens by the Cruisers of the French Republic, the neglect to adopt measures for reparation, and the contumelious Treatment of our Envoys, and through them of our Nation
Your approbation of the part acted on the great Theatre, by your first Magistrate by your Envoys and the great Councils of your nation, with relation to the French Republic is very acceptable, and as all who drink the Western Waters think alike, we may hope that your sentiments are as extensive as those Waters
Although you express with great Modesty your assurance that your Efforts shall not be wanting to support the Independence sovereignty and honor of our Nation yet I am not the less confident that in case of necessity they will not be feeble. John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 11 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy August 11th 1798

Inclosed is the Commission to Mr Sitgreaves no communication was ever made by me or by my desire to that Gentleman of my thoughts of appointing him. but all things considered it appears to me we cannot do better. Mr Potts and Mr Parsons are very capable: but the first is not so active and resolute the last has other objections to him, the strongest of which is his Position in the Union—
I am Sir h S—

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Spencer, 11 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Spencer, Oliver

Sir
Quincy August 11th 1798

Inclosed is an answer to the address of Hamilton County in the Northwestern Territory. I return the address likewise, to you, that if you think proper you may publish it—
the Spark in kindling in the transaleganean region ought to be kept alive.
I am Sir your most /obedient servant
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from David Leonard Barnes, 11 August 1798
From: Barnes, David Leonard
To: Adams, John

Sir
Providence August 11th. 1798

The original, of which the inclosed is a copy, was sent by mail to the Secretary of State last Tuesday—but hearing of your being at Quincy, I take the liberty to trouble you with this directly, in order that you may have the earliest information, of the arrival and object of Victor Hughes’, partner and Agent— To the inclosed I would add, that being at Newport this week, I found that the same Siomandy had been there twice or three times before, particularly last winter, he came there in a snow from New York, bound to Guadaloup—He came down the sound to avoid some British privateers said to be off the Hook. A French Emigrant at Newport from Guadaloup, told me that Siomandy mentioned last winter his being particularly connected in business with Victor Huges—I mention these circumstances as they serve to corroborate the information received from Capt. Jacobs—
With the most perfect Respect / I am / Sir / Your most / Humble Servant

David L. Barnes


Title: To John Adams from Abigail Fellows Cunningham, 11 August 1798
From: Cunningham, Abigail Fellows
To: Adams, John

Great Sir
Lunenburg Augst the 11 1798

I beg leave to congratulate you on your safe Return to your peaceful Retreat. may nothing disturb you. I think, it is almost, an unpardonable sin, for any one to trouble you, with unnecessary addresses, or impertinance when you are overwhelmed, with the Ardous cares and perplexities, of saving, States and Nations and Empires, which is enough to Set any King becide him self, if he had not God, for his Soport. I fear they will suround you with so many addresses of one kind, or a nother, that they will scarcely let you enjoy a moments Rest, in Your otherways, happy Retreat. yet I beg the Liberty this once, to obtrude my good wishes for Your present and future happiness. When the pious D. P Stiles was offered the Precedantcy of Yall College He Said, it was a Crown of thorns. he further Said, What, was all the Honours that this world can bestow to be compaired to the honour of being a humble Disciple of the Blessed Jesus, or to the Glory of having ones name written in the Lambs Book of Life. From what I have heard, and observed of your Character, Sir, I am convinced that Your Sentiments in Regard to this worlds Grandure, and a future, are Similar to those, of that Great and good Man. Your Great Literary and Scientific Character, together with the Title of Precedant of the United States, which are equel, if not Surpassing in honour and Dignity any King on Earth. Yet all these put together, has not set you so high, in the Sight and opinion, Love, and esteam, of the wise and the good, as your Christan Character. A Christan Ruler, is as far Superior, to the Generality of the Kings and Princes, of the world, as King Davids, was, superor, to King Jeroboams the son of Nebat, who made israel to Sin. If you ware Like some of the Nobles of the earth whose Subjects must lick the dust, you would not have been troubled with this epistle, it is true, but then you would been farther out of the way of those Celestal honours that Precedant Stiles so highly Valued. My Sons declare they dont want to die in their Beds. I have instructed them Months Ago if they ware Calld to Action, in defence of their Country, to Count not their Lives Dear in Defience of Foreign influence, and Defence of their Countrys Cause which is the cause of God and Christ. And if they fall, My Conduct will be Similar to some of the Ancient Spartan mothers, who Suspended their Lamentations for the Loss their Sons, or Husbands till they examined their clothing, to see wheither the shot went in Behind or Before. if we must sacrifise we must, and if the Dearst Friend I have in the World, should be calld for, or even my own Life, I should Give them up, with as much composure as Abraham Led his Beloved Son to the Alter. our cause is the Cause of God and Christ who Said, he that saveth his Life shall Lose it, and he that Losseth his Life, for my Sake, shall Save it. My Sincere Regards attend your Excellent Lady and Amiable Children May they Not only obtain a temporal Diadem but be Blessed with a crown that abideth for ever that, the world Cannot give, or take away. and that You Sir may be Preserved by the Divine Hand in Your Accumulated Graces, of a Moses, of Solomon of Job, and the man after Gods own heart, and some Very Distant day, for we cannot Spare you or Let You Go, to Exchange a Crown of Thorns, for an incorruptable Crown of Glory May You Shine, as the Stars for ever and ever, is the fervent wish, of your Devoted Humble Servant

Abigail Cunningham,Wife of Wm: CunninghamLunenburg
I have took corage from my Confidence in your Christan Graceses, if I escape punnishment it is all I expect if I escape it from you, I shall escape it fore no one on earth Knowes of my writing or having such an Idea, not even my Husband. Of my Boldness in writeing to the Precedant, yours as Above
A.CIt is not every Minister of the Gospel, that is a Good man or a Christan. When our Goverment and Rulers, are, and have Been, the best that ever was, any minister, that would make Light of sowing sedition cannot be a Christan or a good man. if any could be found that would Depraciate the doings of goverment and find fault with the treaty and say in the pulpit that he did not Like it at first that he should not have made such an one that it had caused a Great deal of uneasyness in the world: and to intamate to his people that he was fully if not Superor in natural and acquired abilites, to our Head Rulers, Yet he had but about 80 £ a year, while our Chief Magistrates, had such and such somes, and Likwise to Give the preference to a seditious news paper, which would naturaly influence almost all others to take the same paper, for people in the country in General Look up to their minister as their Oracle especially if he is a Larned man, and can throw out Gibberish which they do not understand. if such ware to be found, it would be Matter of no wonder, if the people of such Towns, ware disaffected to the Goverment. I dare say if many of the ministers in the Country had conducted Similar to this discription we should Been deluged in blood and carnage before this time, for aught we know. What would have been our situation is uncertain to us, if I must not speak I must give up the Ghost.


Title: To John Adams from James Jackson, 12 August 1798
From: Jackson, James
To: Adams, John

(duplicate)
SirExecutive Department of Georgia Louis Ville August 12th. 1798

Since my address to you of the 8th instant, a duplicate of which this accompanies, I have received information from the Collector of the Customs for the Port of Savannah, of a very disagreeable occurrence, which took place there, in the night of the 4th instant. The destruction of a Spanish Schooner by some persons unknown—
As I have not heard of any existing hostility between the United States and his Catholic Majesty, I conceived it necessary and hope Sir the Step will meet your approbation, to issue the proclamation, and write the letter to the Governor of East Florida, copies of which as also the Collectors letter to Me, are enclosed marked: No 4—
As the Spanish Crew fled, I was fearful that if no step was taken until your Orders could be obtained the Citizens of the United States in Florida & other Spanish ports as well as their vessels & property might be in danger—
The Governor of So Carolina has acceded to my proposal, which I communicated to the Secretary of War in June last, of reciprocating assistance in Case of attack on either of those States,—until your orders and arrangements are known—A copy of his letter is also enclosed No 5
With this assistance, if only our Sea Coast was only in a tolerable state of defence, as to fortifications & gallies, I should feel little apprehension from a French attack, until we could be supported by your arrangements.
Our Militia however are very badly off for Musquets.
I have the honor to be with the utmost deference and respect / Sir / Your mo Obedt Servt

Jas. Jackson


Title: From John Adams to Maxwell Armstrong, 13 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Armstrong, Maxwell

Gentlemen
Quincy August 13 1798.

I do myself the Honour to inclose to you my answer to your excellent address signed by you on the 23d of july and voted by the People on the 16th—My journey to this place is the cause of the delay of the answer. I wish you all health and real not French Brotherly Love.
With great regard I have the Honour to be Gentlemen your / obliged and obedient servt.

John AdamsMaxwell ArmstrongGeorge Towers andJohn ArmstrongA Committee


Title: From John Adams to Maxwell Armstrong, 13 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Armstrong, Maxwell,Haymond, John

To the Inhabitants of Harrison County in the Commonwealth of Virginia
GentlemenQuincy August 13. 1798

I have received with great Pleasure your Address of the 16th of July, from your Committee. The Attachment, you express, to our Government, calculated to ensure Liberty and Happiness to its Citizens, is commendable. Your declaration, in plain and undisguised Language, that the measures which have been taken to promote a good Understanding, Peace and Harmony between this Country and France, are becoming my Character and deserving your Confidence, is a great Encouragement to me.
With You, I see with infinite satisfaction, that the alarming Prospect of a War, which is seen to be just and necessary, has silenced all essential differences of opinion, and that a Union of Sentiment appears to prevail, very generally throughout our Land. I fear however that the distinctions between Aristocrats and Democrats however odious and pernicious they may be rendered by political Artifice at particular Conjunctures, will never be done away as long as some Men are taller and others shorter, Some wiser and others sillier, some more virtuous and others more vicious, some richer and others poorer. The distruction is grounded on unalterable Nature: and human Wisdom can do no more, than reconcile the Parties by equitable Establishments and equal Laws securing as far as possible to every one his own. The Distruction was intended by Nature for the order of Society and the Benefit of Men. The Parties ought to be mutually beneficial to each other and Woe will be to that Country which suffers malicious Demagogues to Excite Jealousies and foment Prejudices and Stimulate Animosities between them—
I adore with you, the Genius and Principles of that Religion, which teaches, as much as possible to live peaceably with all Men. Yet it is impossible to be at Peace with Injustice, with and Cruelty, with Fraud and Violence, Despotism and Anarchy, and Impiety. A purchased Peace could continue no longer, than you continue to pay, and the Field of Battle at once is infinitely preferable, to a Course of perpetual and unlimited Contribution.
Deeply affected with your Prayers for the Continuance of my Life, I can only Say that my Age and Infirmities Scarcely allow me a hope of being the happy Instrument of conducting You, through the impending Storm.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Samuel B. Malcom, 13 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Malcom, Samuel B.

Dear Malcom
Quincy August 13 1798

I have receivd your favor of the 6th—Heat scarcely tollerable attended us all the Way to this place. Mrs. A. was ill all the journey and has been confined to her bed from the time she first lay down in it—she is now I hope better and in a fair way of recovery
That there is a miserable Knot in most of our great Cities who would receive a french Enemy and be punished for it as severely as Virtue & Patriotism our wish. I have never doubted
The Martial appearance at N. York will never be out of my Imagination or Memory. it is a sure pledge. the Merchants ought to Consider and be more alert and attentive than they have been in N. York too intent on their own affairs to consider with necessary caution Men and Measures— I shall be glad to be informd of your Progress as often as you can write to your / friend

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 13 August 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir.
War Department. 13 Augt 1798

I have the honour to transmit a duplicate of the talk to the Cherokees, and to request, if approved of, it may be returned with your signature as soon as convenient.
I shall leave this with my family to-morrow for Trenton, to which place you will be pleased to direct your letters for this department.
with the greatest respect and attachment, I have the honour to be Sir—Your very hble St—

James McHenry


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 13 August 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir,
War Department 13 August 1798—

I received, on the afternoon of the 10th last, from Mr. Elisha Hall secretary to the commissioners for holding a treaty with the Cherokee nation, the following enumerated dispatches viz, 1st a letter dated Tellico 14th July 1798 signed A Moore, George Walton, and John Steele. 2nd a letter dated 16th July 1798 signed George Walton. 3rd the Journal of the proceedings of the commissioners appointed to hold a treaty with the Cherokee nation under the authority of the United States commencing at Knoxville in the state of Tennessee on Friday the 18th of May 1798. 4th a letter from secretary Hall dated the 10th August 1798 and certain documents referred to from No. 1 to 55 inclusive.
After as attentive consideration as my situation has permitted me to give to these papers, and the object to which they relate, I am of opinion that a renewal  of the negotiation as proposed, is a wise measure, and necessary, tho it should fail, to convince as well, those who are specially interested in its success, as those citizens of Tennessee  who wish for the preservation of peace with the Indians, of the sincerity of the intentions of government.
You will perceive that Mr. Walton does not entertain hopes of being able to induce the Indians to part with more, or other land than what the intruders have occupied; and without believing, or discrediting the insinuations contained, particularly, in the paper signed by the secretary to the Commissioners, I can easily conceive that such a purchase would be far from satisfactory to two discriptions of men, who seem to have obtained considerable influence in the state of Tennessee; I mean those who hold rights under the state of North Carolina to land within the Cherokee boundary, and those who have engaged in the project of Zachariah Coxe.
The part taken by the late Legislature of Tennesee to favour the passage of this adventurer with his armed associates, down the River Tennessee cannot be forgotten. The pretensions set forth in the paper No: 46 addressed to the commissioners of the United States by the agents appointed by Governor Sevier to attend the Negotiation shew, pretty plainly, how little concern he took in the purchase of so inconsiderable a parcel as was requested for the intruders—Such a treaty could bring no accomadation whatever to the holders of large North Carolina grants on the contrary, it would act as an effective postponement to these claims by throwing the possibility of obtaining a purchase within which they could be satisfied to an incalculably distant day. If we suppose then that these two descriptions of men are influential characters in Tennessee and not overscrupulous about the use of means, it is an Indian war only, extensive and destructive as it respects the ill-fated natives, which can hold out to them a prospect of possession of the lands they so much covet. They must consider it therefore the last consequence that say no purchase should be accomplished which would purely cover the land that has been intruded upon.
It is the sufferings of the intruders which are to interest the feelings of the great body of the citizens of the state. It is the intruders who are to be stimulated and made the instruments of an Indian War, if not a rebellion.
These reflections and the new position taken by Coxe on the Cumberland, threatening the execution of his project, and the existence of a part of his organized associates at Knoxville, prepared to co-operate with him, would seem to render a renewal of the negotiations of the negotiation an indispensable measure, and indicate the necessity of trying every honorable expedient to bring it to a favourable issue.
Mr. Walton suggests that a letter or talk from the President addressed to the Chief and Warriors of the Cherokee nation might be of use in this negotiation. This appears to me a judicious idea. I have therefore annexed the form of a letter or Talk, which, if it meets your approbation I request may be returned with your signature, as soon as possible. You will observe that the third of next month is fixed on for the recommencement of the negotiation. Your letter cannot arrive at the treaty ground sooner than the twentieth of September. I shall communicate this latter circumstance by the first Mail to Mr. Walton that he may conduct himself accordingly.
The opinion you expressed of Colo. Butler when I first proposed him for one of the commissioners has induced me to direct a commission to be made out in his name to fill the vacancy created by Mr. Steele, and I inclose it for your signature. I believe Colo. Butler the fittest person for a commissioner that could have been employed on the present occasion. I shall also write to Mr. Hawkins to attend the treaty.
I am sorry Mr. Steele made so improper a reply to Governor Sevier’s congratulatory letter. You will find a copy of it among the documents. He is a very weak Man.
My fever subsided entirely on friday. I find myself however very weak.
With the most sincere attachment / I have the honor to be / Your faithful friend & Hble. Sevt.
James McHenry


Title: To John Adams from Judith Sargent Stevens Murray, 13 August 1798
From: Murray, Judith Sargent Stevens
To: Adams, John

Illustrious, and Beloved Chief
Boston Franklin Place August 13th 1798

I do not upon this occasion experience the truth of a received opinion–that we make second, or third steps, in any given path, with more facility than the first—for, while presuming once more to address you, I am conscious of a greater degree of inferiority than while penning, nearly two years since, my petitioning letter to you. Is it that I am dazzled by the new effulgence which your high office, and that perfection of character which it has opened, has thrown around your person, or have I learned, at length to appreciate more justly my own demerit?
Whatever may be the cause, such is its effect upon me, that if I had not a representation to make, which involves, in its consequences, a very worthy Man, and a numerous, and deserving family, I should assuredly have been silent
Yea Honored Sire, although the sentiments of admiration of your virtues and confidence in your abilities, that have stamped a value upon those numerous addresses, which have met your eye from every quarter of the Union, have invariably found an echo in my bosom–although, at the tidings of your return, my bounding heart leaaped exultingly, and I traced with unutterable joy your footsteps o’er the applause crowned way–although I would gladly have joined with those beautiful children who strewed flowers in your path–although I sighed to behold your benign countenance, while I spontaneously exclaimed–May God long preserve, and forever bless, the exalted, the illustrious Chief—yet, these genuine emotions, should not have preferred their claim to a single moment of that little portion of time which you devote to the sweets of retirement, was I not irresistably prompted, by the motive hinted at in the foregoing page.
When I had the honor of a seat in your parlour, upon a–to me–memorable evening, in the October of 88–If I mistake not, you mentioned the family of my Uncle Epes Sargent, and particularly his eldest Son, with approbation. Permit me, Sire, to introduce him again to your consideration—He was, you may possibly recollect, formerly of Gloucester, in this state—from the first organization of the customs, and for upwards of five years, this Gentleman officiated as a collector of that district; the emoluments being inadequate to afford any aid to the discharge of its numerous duties, they pressed so hard upon both his strength, and health, as compelled him to sollicit, and obtain permission to resign: of the skill, and punctuality with which he acquitted himself, information may be obtained by inquiring of the Honorable Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Wolcott, and all the officers of the Treasury, or of the Honorable Mr. Goodhue. I have the fullest assurances that his ultimate accounts were closed both to a moment, and a cent. Mr. Sargent’s pecuniary circumstances are remote from affluence, and equally so from indigence, they may be guaranteed, from their actual state, and from his habits of life, to be so perfectly free from embarrassment, as to maintain the legitimate independency of any moderate station he may be called to: his present retired situation in Hampstead, New Hampshire, in an occupation entirely agricultural, would preclude every necessity of being brought again into public view, did not the ambition and affection of a parent, forbid the suppression of the most powerful desire for the better advancement of a numerous family.—and could the President take a peep into his little Cottage he would become irresistably interested, in favour of a very lovely group of sons, and daughters, now condemned to pine in obscurity, and unless reared, and transplanted by his fostering hand, must probably bloom and wither unseeing, and unseen.
Mr. Sargent’s Attachment to regularity, good order, the laws and constitution of the United States is unequivocal—the attention he has paid to obtain a knowledge of the customs, induces him, to conceive, that he could conduct with more ease to himself, in that department, than in any other—Although Gentlemen of information, to whom he is fully known, do not hesitate to pronounce him suited by talents, and education, to almost any situation.
Should the present exigencies of our Country, remove General Lincoln to those fields in which he has reaped such deathless laurels, or should the place of Naval Officer become vacant, or any other, which may be viewed as yielding a suitable support, I take leave respectfully to submit to the consideration of the President, the propriety of considering Mr Sargent as a Candidate—and for any favours which he may receive, my penetrated heart will acknowledge incalculable gratitude.
You, Sire, and your excellent Lady, will doubtless visit Boston, and although I have not the arrogance to rank myself with those who will find both their pride, and their happiness in entertaining you, yet I will confess, that not only my ambition, but my affection induces a wish, that I might have the gratification of narrating, that The President of the United States, and his admired Lady, were once seated within the walls of my little tenement.
In the course of a few days Mr Murray will wait on you, to pay his duty, and to learn your sentiments relative to Mr Sargent.
I have / Honored Sire, / the privilege of considering myself, / with perfect admiration of your / character, / your very devoted, / Humble, and most / Obedient Servant,

J. Sargent Murray


Title: To John Adams from David Olyphant, 13 August 1798
From: Olyphant, David
To: Adams, John

Sir
Newport R.Is. Augst. 13th 1798

I presume to Address your Excellency, & request the favor of your Attention to John A. Hazard, who offers himself a Candidate as Purser to the Ship now building at Warren, to be Commanded by Capt. Perry.—
He is a young Gentleman of irreproachable Character, of good Abilities, & has received a regular Education for the Profession of the Law, & lately entered as an Attorney in the Courts: his Connections are highly respectable, honest federalists, & firm supporters of the present Administration.
I beg pardon for this intrusion, not doubting that to recommend a worthy young Man to serve his Country, will plead my Apology—
I have the honor to be, with sentiments of great Esteem & respect— / Your Excellcy’s / most Obedient / & very humble Servant

David Olyphant


Title: To John Adams from Arthur St. Clair, 13 August 1798
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Cincinnati 13th. August 1798

A few days ago I received an Address from the Grand Jury for this County of Hamilton, which, as it contained very proper Sentiments respecting the present national Crisis, I promised them should be transmitted to You, and I now take the liberty to enclose the public Paper in which it is inserted: I cannot doubt, Sir, but they will be pleasing to You, and I beg leave to assure you that no pains will be spared to strengthen and disseminate them in every part of this extensive Territory, which is a very important appendage to the United States.
The military Spirit is up in this Country, which has taken the lead, and will be followed; but, to render it more certain, I set out in a few days on a tour, to review the militia, in all the upper Countries, and it is a great statisfaction to me that my health is so well reestablished as to be able to do it, at this time, without risque.
With perfect respect, I have the honor to be / Sir, / your obedient Servant

Ar. St. Clair


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 14 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy August 14. 1798

I have received only this morning your Letter of the 4th. of this month. Its Contents are of much importance.
I desire that you would inform General Washington, that I consider him in the Public Service from the Date of his Appointment and intitled to all the Emoluments of it. He is at Liberty to receive all or any part, at his Discretion: and is fully Authorised to appoint his Aids and Secretaries, when he Shall think fit. One Secretary at least is indispensible immediately, and he ought be allowed his pay and rations.
Calling any other General Officers into Service at present will be attended with difficulty, unless the rank were Settled. In my Opinion, as the matter now Stands General Knox, is legally intitled to rank next to General Washington, and no other Arrangement will give Satisfaction. If General Washington, is of this Opinion and will consent to it, you may call him into actual Service as soon as you please. The Consequence of this will be that Pinckney must rank before Hamilton. If it Shall be consented that the Rank shall be Knox Pinckney and Hamilton, you may call the latter too into immediate Service, when you please. Any other Plan will occasion long delay and much confusion. You may depend upon it the five New England States will not patiently Submit to the humiliation that has been meditated for them.
If North declines the Adjutancy, I am prepared, to appoint another and a better.
I am, Sir your most obedient / Servant

John Adams


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

Sir
Quincy Augt. 14. 1798

I return the papers relative to Scotchlar, with his pardon, and am your Mo. Obt / Servt.

Jn: Adams


Title: To John Adams from William Murray, 14 August 1798
From: Murray, William,Moody, James
To: Adams, John

The address of the subscribers of the County of Fayette and State of Kentucky,—To the President of the United States,—Sir,Lexington 14th. Augst: 1798—

We have seen with the anxiety which is inseperable from the love of our Country the situation in which the United States are placed by the agressions committed by the French nation on our Commerce our rights and our National Sovereignty.—
Whilst the prospect of peace was in practicable view we looked anxiously toward that event; but we expected peace upon equitable and honourable terms.—We fondly hoped that the constituted powers of France would meet our Envoys on the just and liberal terms offered by them agreeably to their instructions. But, although, all proper advances have been made by our Executive these reasonable expectations have been disappointed.—How it becomes us, as Citizens of an Independant nation, to act in this crisis—there is no question—as Freemen and Americans we do not hesitate.—
We will rally round the standard of our Country—We will support the constituted authorities of that country.
An insidious enemy shall in vain attempt to divide us from the Government of the United States.—
To the support of that Goverment against any foreign enemy “we pledge our Lives our fortunes and our sacred honour.”—

William MurrayJames MoodyWill. MortonJames MorrisonJohn HollingsworthFredk. LaumanNinian EdwardsMann SatterwhiteS. WilkinsWm: ClarkeJohn BairdJoseph HudsonWilliam RingWilliam WestSaml. DowningAndw. HolmesJames WierSamel. ClintonA. KennedyFrancis S. ReadAllan B. MagruderJames McDowellJohn AndersonJames WilsonGeorge AndersonJoseph OliverPat: McCulloughTho. RespassJo. JonesJ. P. WagnonTho. J. DickinsonWm. ShellerR MiddletonJno. WallaceJno. DowningTho. ReedJames EadesJohn RobinsonJames Grafton.Abram FulkersonJohn Bryson—Jona. HolmesJohn ArthurJames B. JanuaryFrancis JonesDavid SheelyRobt. LyleGeo. TrotterAlexr. ScottCharles J. LoveJohn Taylor Louis MarshallAlexr: ParkerSam: Postlethwait junr.Tho. WallaceAndw. HareJohn Holmes junr.John QuigleyJoseph BoswellMatthew WigginsJames WhiteheadJo. WhiteheadAdjet McGuireWilliam SandersDennis WordD. V. D. SuttonRichardson TyreM. MyersGeo. LeonardJohn GardnerJ. TeagueE. SnowDavid Bowers


Title: To John Adams from John Lathrop, 14 August 1798
From: Lathrop, John
To: Adams, John

Much Hond Sir,
Boston 14 August 1798

Several members of the Academy were so pleased with the oration upon citizen Socrates, delivered by Professor Luzac, that they wished to see it translated, & printed in our own Country.—The Revd Mr Bentley of Salem was requested to make a translation; but after it was done, some members of the Academy expressed doubts with respect to printing, and nothing farther has been done. Mr Bentley now wishes you would be pleased to accept of his translation, as a small token of the respect he has for you, as President of the united States, and of the Academy of Arts and Sciences.—
The discourse delivered before the Humane Society by Dr Walter, our worthy Friend Dr Clarke, the late corresponding Secretary, would have Sent you, had his life been spared: but he was cut off in the midst of his days, & in the midst of usefulness.—
Permit me, Sir, to congratulate you, your Lady & Family, on your Safe arival, at your Seat in Braintree, after the arduous and important labours of a long session in Philadelphia: and permit me to say, my heart accords with the many thousands of my fellow citizens, in the strongest approbation of your administration.—
I was early taught, never to dispair of the public: & if I am not mistaken, there is much less reason for gloomy apprehension at this day, than for many years past.
The snare which held us intangled with a proud, an impious & most profligate foreign Nation is broken.—May we not indulge the pleasing hope, that Americans taught by what they have suffered, and relying on Providence, and their own exertions will now release progress with a firm and steady course, to the Glory which the Patriarchs and Prophets of our Country have long had in view?—
With the greatest respect / I have the honour to be / Sir, / your most humbl Servt

John Lathrop.


Title: From John Adams to Ma., Citizens of Danvers, 15 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Danvers, Ma., Citizens of

To one hundred and Eighty Inhabitants of the Town of Danvers, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,—
Gentlemen
Quincy Augt. 15th. 1798

Since my Return to this place, I have received your obliging address, expressing your Sensibility of the great Advantages you derive from a Government, established by the People, upon the true Principles of equal Liberty, and your entire Satisfaction in the Administration of it, for which I thank you.—We had indeed, just reason to expect that no foreign Power would interfere in our National affairs, while we endeavoured to support a just & strict Neutrality,—We had reason to expect too that the French Republic would have been our Friends.—But we have been miserably disappointed, The injuries committed against us, have been the most provoked, the most wanton, and the most capricious, and abominable, adding the most premeditated Insults to the most intollerable Injuries, The Treatment of our Government and its Ambassadors surpasses all Example, and can never be forgiven, without Reparation.—
When you declare that my Administration merits your fullest approbation, and that you consider it as a favor of Providence, that I am placed at the head of your public affairs at this important day, I can only wish and pray that you may never have occasion to alter your opinion.—

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Virginia Militia, 15 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Virginia Militia

To the Greens & Whites a Troop of Cavalry. annexed to the fifth Brigade, Second Regiment and Second division of the Virginia Militia.—
Gentlemen,
Quincy August 15. 1798

Since my arrival in this Place, I have received your address of the fourth of July 1798.—Your offers of service, I receive with Pleasure and have referred to the Secretary of War to be answerd and accepted according to those Rules prescribed by Law and generally adopted by Government.—
The Motives of such base Americans as yet seem to be in disgust with their Country, and patronise the measures of foreign Invaders, are too dark, secret, gloomy and flagitious to be openly avowed, and will not be easily penetrated and ascertained in detail. If the grand Inquest of the Nation, however, should think it necessary to sett on foot an Inquiry, they might soon discover a system of Corruption & Iniquity, that would shock and disgust every honest man and faithful american.—
Your approbation of my administration and humble Trust that my Conduct will be an Example to unite america, are very flattering to me, and when you wish me every happiness incident to life you command my most affectionate Gratitude
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Dr. Samuel Hollen, 15 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Hollen, Dr. Samuel

Dear Sir
Quincy Augt. 15. 1798

Your letter of the 17th of July never reached me till since my return home. inclosd is an answer to the Address, which is very kind and handsome, and the more agreable as the Representative of the Town, seems by your account to entertain different sentiments. We cannot all think alike in this World. I rejoice to find you in so good health and spirits.—I am Dear Sir.— / Your old Friend
John AdamsDr. Tufts and Family are very well.—


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 15 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy August 15. 1798

Inclosed is an address from Virginia, The Whites & Greens of Warrenton, with my answer which I pray you to transmit, with such an answer from yourself in your official capacity, as you give to others in similar circumstances.
I am &c

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 15 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy Augt. 15. 1798

I transmit you, an address from a Corps of Horse in Warren, North Carolina,—I have some difficulty about accepting for a Company so small a Number as forty and also about lending the Arms, I pray you to detirmine These Points in this Case as you have done and mean to do in others and transmit them an answer.—I am, Sir, / Your Most obedient

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 15 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy Aug 15. 1798

I return the Address of the county of Renselar with an answer which I pray you to forward. Perhaps they mean to offer themselves as a volunteer corps. If you understand them in that sense, you will please to give them the proper official answer.
Your huml Servt
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Vt., Citizens of Burlington, 16 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Burlington, Vt., Citizens of

To the Officers and Soldiers of the Cavalry, Artillery and Infantry, and other Inhabitants of Burlington and its Vicinity, in the County of Chittenden and State of Vermont.Gentlemen
Quincy August 16. 1798

My Journey to this Place has delayed till this time, an Answer, to your obliging Address of the fourth of July: Your Zeal in support of those Rights to which that memorable Day gave Birth is as natural and commendable as your resolution to hold yourselves in readiness to support and defend them is commendable. The Constitution and Government, of your own Choice has indeed, caused the Wilderness, in many Parts of America to blossom as the rose. Your Confidence in the Executive and all other constituted Authorities of the Government and your Testimony in favour of my Administration as well as that of my great Predecessor, as far as it relates to me does me honor, as far as it relates to him does honor to yourselves. Your Opinion of the Opposition may seem severe, but as it respects many of the most invetterate, though perhaps the most plausible, I cannot hesitate to believe it just.
A French Directory to dictate to you who shall be your Rulers! And who shall be your Ambassadors! A worthless Tyrant of a King once said “Let me have the Appointment at my pleasure of Judges and Bishops and I will have what Law and Gospell I please.” Let a French Directory have the Choice of your Presidents, Governers, and Ambassadors, and you may as well give them Legislative Authority over you in all Cases whatsoever. ... Rather than this I Say with you, let Us have War. ... We will chearfully meet it, rather than admit for a moment of such degraded Principles. Those who make their boasts of having of having delivered Us from the Power of Tyranny may now, with equal modesty, undertake to rule over Us. ... America delivered France from the Power of Tyranny, at least as truly, as France, delivered America. Let the History of both Countries from 1763 to in 1774 determine. ... The rising Generation in America has not sufficiently attended to this subject. It has been carefully concealed from their studies and Contemplation.
France I hope will find Us, still determin’d to be free. Our Citizens, in sufficient numbers will feel the Spirit of real Americans. I hope you will have Wisdom and Firmness in your Councils and a Washington to lead your Armies.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Martin Chittenden, 16 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Chittenden, Martin

Gentlemen
Quincy Augt 16. 1798

Inclosed is an answer to the address from the Military and other Citizens of Burlington, forwarded to me by the Secretary of State, since my arrival at this place.—
I am / Gentlemen— / yr. obt. huml. Servt.—
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to William Cunningham, 17 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Cunningham, William

Dear Sir
Quincy Aug. 17. 1798

I received your friendly letter of the 30 July a few days ago. The People of America in general have been attached to the French, much more warmly than they deserved. They have been deceived. And when Mankind once open their Eyes upon an Error they have been in, they commonly are astonished that they did not see it, sooner.
I am glad to hear of the Company of Lunnenburg Musketeers.—Please to make my Compliments to your Family and to my Reverend Friend, your Brother & Pastor.
I am with great regard / Sir your humble Servt.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Spencer, 17 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Spencer, Oliver

To the Inhabitants of Hamilton County in the Territory Northwest of the River Ohio, assembled at Columbia on the 4 of July.—
Gentlemen
Quincy Aug. 17th. 1798

Your address has been forwarded by Colonel Spencer as you requested, and demands a respectfull return. The approbation of any of the Inhabitants beyond the Mountains, is very acceptable to me for reasons which cannot be mistaken. You must share the Fortunes of your Bretheren in the Atlantic States, whether prosperous or adverse. Seperated from them you would soon be the Prey of one or another foreign Power, and Subject to a yoke which neither you nor your Fathers nor Brothers were able to bear—
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Me., Citizens of Kittery, 17 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Kittery, Me., Citizens of

To the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the Town of Kittery, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.—
Gentlemen
Quincy Augt. 17th. 1798

Your candid address of the 17th July which I received on the 16 of August, deserves my Thanks. The repeated attempts to accomodate differences with the French Republic have been dictated by a Love of Peace and a respect to the French Nation as well as to the sense of the American People.They have answered no other End than to unfold designs, the most pernicious and demands which can never be complied with. No hope of Safety remains for us, without our own United Exertions.
The Conviction of this is general, but will never be universal: at least the time will never come when all will acknowledge it. In the last Extremity, I fear, We shall find Traitors who will unite with an invading Enemy; and fly within their lines; there to be tormented by their own consciences, and by the contempt of their supposed Friends. The Number however will be incomparably smaller than in 1775 and 1776.—
John Adams


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

Sir
Quincy Aug. 17. 1798

Inclos’d is an answer to the address from the Inhabitants of Hamilton County, which you will forward if you please.—
I am Sir— / Your obt. huml. Servt
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to George Thacher, 17 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Thacher, George

Dear Sir
Quincy Aug 17. 1798

I received yesterday your favour of July 31.—Inclosed are a few words in answer.—The Reason given by the Town of Kittery, for their address is the best that could be.—I wish I had time to have given them a more particular answer. But I receive daily addresses in such numbers, that in addition to the other indispensable Duties and Business of my station make it difficult for me to get along, and I fear I shall disoblige many worthy People, by my Inability to give that attention to them which they merit.—
Was there ever before such a continuation of Heat as has been from the 25 July to this Moment?—
I am my Dear Sir / Your very huml. Servt
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 18 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy August 18. 1798

Since I have been here, his Excellency the Governor of this State has enquired of me with some Anxiety to know whether the Cession of Castle Island is accepted. I referred that Act of the Legislature of this State to you or the Secretary of State to prepare an Answer of Acceptance. Will you be so good as to attend to this subject as soon as possible and forward the Acceptance to me for my Signature and Conveyance to the Governor, if that is sufficient. I dont remember that the Acceptance of Congress is necessary.
Major Jackson of the Artillery has applied to me: says he has not received his Commission and is out of Employment. I have recd very unpleasant Information of the Principles and Conversation of one of the Majors of the new Corps of Artillerists. I wish you would enquire into the Character of that Marylander. I wish to know also by what rule Jackson is placed as the third Major? What Pretensions has Brooks & the other to the Preceedence?
Lovell shall be appointed a Captain of Artillery in the Place of Mitchell. His former Rank, his Age, his Talents, his services in the Family of the Commander in Chief, his Education his Connections intitle him.
I am Sir your humble Servant

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 18 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy August 18.1798

Inclosed are Copies of Letters I have received from David Leonard Barnes, the District. Attorney of Rhode Island. Tho they have been sent to you before, they were to me, there are so many french Villanies committed in the Post Offices, I think it necessary to send them again that there may be one chance more of their reaching you. What can be done with these Wretches?
I have the Honor to be your most / humble Servant.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 18 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy August 18. 1798

Mr. William Gray of Salem, a capital Merchant of that place called on me to request a Convoy, for an hundred sail of American vessels now at the Havanna, watched by twenty or thirty French Privateers. I desired him to write to you and to pray you to afford them a Convoy, if possible. Mr. Simmons of Charleston SC on a visit to me Yesterday informed me, that Dispatches & Petitions to Government had been forwarded, from the Havanna by the way of Charleston, requesting a Convoy.—
If it is possible for you to afford them the Protection they want, I wish you to give the necessary orders for that Purpose.
I am.— / Sir. Yr. Mo. obt. Servant
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 18 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy Aug. 18.1798

Inclosed is a Letter from Mr Rutledge at Newport and recommendations from a great Number of respectable Inhabitants of Charleston in favour of George Cross to be a Captain in the Navy. To this Letter and these recommendations I pray you to pay a particular Attention.


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 18 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Sir
Quincy Augt. 18th. 1798

Inclosed is a Letter from Mr Pope, the Collector of New Bedford requesting to be appointed to Superintend the Building a Light House on Gayhead, to which I request your attention.
I am, Sir with great regard / Your Most Obedient

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Increase Sumner, 18 August 1798
From: Sumner, Increase
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Roxbury 18 August 1798

I have just recd. the inclosed papers from Mr Justice Hill a respectable Magistrate in the County of Lincoln, & I do myself the honor to transmit them to Your Excellency, by Capt. Roger, the Bearer, that you might be able to make further inquiry into the business, if it should be thought necessary.
The infernal plot mentioned in the papers appeared to me, at first, so impracticable and absurd that I felt but little inclination to pay much attention to it. but contemplating the Subject more fully, and knowing the restless, wicked disposition of the enemies of our Government, I thought best, immediately to forward the papers for your consideration: especially, as Blair the person who made oath to the facts, stated in his Lesso is considered by Capt. Rogers as a Man of good Character & undoubted Veracity—Capt. Rogers says Glair informed him, that he received the paper referred to in his Affidavit from the hands of the noted General Clark, as part of his general orders to all true Jacobins in the district of Maine. The whole plan seems to have been built upon a French invasion. In this, they are disappointed for the present, but their sending Fitzgerald into the Eastern Country, with the papers mentioned, to some suspicious Characters, affords pretty strong evidence, that the Villains are still brooding mischief. It is scarcely a month since Blair saw him there, possessed of the papers which he alludes to in his testimony, & Capt. Roger thinks it probable, he is yet in some one of the lower Counties—Rakley, Odee, Cavenough, Cotchal, Powers & Ryan, I understand, live at, or near Wisscassett; would it not be adviseable for Justice Hill, by some address to procure further evidence, if possible from some of them, in order to strengthen Blair’s testimony? they are not considered as yet deep in the plot, and may not be intirely, on their guard, or otherwise, might be prevailed on to give a fair testimony on a promise of indemnity—I submit it to your Excellency’s better Judgment, whether Measures ought not to be taken, for the apprehension of General Clark, and Fitzgerald, for Sedition at least, and if another Witness, should come forward against them, for Treason.
The Bearer is waiting and I have only time to add, my best wishes for your health & happiness, and have the honor to be your Excellency Obedt. and very hum. Servt.

Increase SumnerMrs. Sumner joins me in best respects to Mrs. Adams and begs to be informed whether she has recovered from her late illness.


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 20 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy Aug 20th 1798

I received on Saturday your favor of the 13th have read the papers inclosed voluminous as they are & return the commission for Col. Butler & the talk to the Indians signed. The Indians have been taught to misunderstand The advice against selling their lands to individuals, for advice against selling to the United States.
I am Sir / your most obedient

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Increase Sumner, 20 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Sumner, Increase

Dear Sir
Quincy Aug. 20. 1798

I have received the letter your Excellency did me the honor to write me, dated the 18 by mistake I presume as I am told it was written this morning. I have read all the Papers and return them. I think it will be advisable that your Excellency should communicate them to the Attorney General, of the State and the District Attorney Mr. Davis at Boston, that both those Gentlemen may write to the Attornies who act for the State, and the District in Maine,—An Investigation ought to be Sett on foot but I am not allarmed as such information haveing received much of it in other Places which has not amounted to any thing serious in the end.—Mrs Adams joins me in respects to your Excellency & Lady—She has not been out of her chamber since she first entered it after our arrival, and is still very weak—with great regard I have the honor / to be your Excellencys most / humble Servant

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from David Few, 20 August 1798
From: Few, David
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Natchez 20th August 1798

Your excellency I suppose has perused the proceedings of the Court Martial by which I was tried. I think it indispensibly necessary, in Justice to myself to protest against the proceedings of that court, and appeal to your excellency for that Justice which was denied me when I was arraigned before the tribunal for a trial. It must be obvious to every impartial and discerning eye from the proceedings of my prosecuter that he was doubtfull whether he could support the Charges alledged against me, if he had been Confident of the Justice of the prosecution, he certainly would not have debared me of that Just privilege to Vindicate my conduct, he even prohibited me of making a defence either written or Verbal, which if I had been admited to do I am confident that I could have convinced my enemies (of which the court chiefly consisted) that I was innocent of the crimes laid to my charge. if your excellency will grant me the benefit to Vindicate my Character I will prove that the president and one of the members of Court was a party concerned in the prosecution, and actually endeavoured to assist the Commandant to convict me. I will also prove by Doctor G. Pieffer and Lieutenant Andrew Shanklin that my proscutor in order to convict me of a falshood And ungentlemany Conduct, made use of erronious assertions to the Court, by which your Excellency can see how much he interested himself in the prosecution. A Consciousness of innocence emboldens me to appeal to your excellency for redress, and trust that your love of Justice will not suffer Justice to be so blooded with cruelty as to admit an innocent Persons name to be branded with infamy and remembered with horror and eversion to mankind.
I have the honor to be with / the highest sense of dutifull / respect your excellencies most / Obedient & humble serv.

Davd. FewEns 3d. Regt.


Title: To John Adams from Jonathan Jackson, 20 August 1798
From: Jackson, Jonathan
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Supervisor’s office, Boston August 20th. 1798

I received by last post from the Secretary of the Treasury letters addressed to the nine Commissioners who were appointed to execute within this State the “Act to provide for the valuation of lands dwelling houses &c”—
The Secretary desiring me “to take effectual measures for having the letters safely delivered”—I waited upon Colo. Dawes, to deliver him his, who informed me that he had sent in his resignation some days since to you Sir. I then suggested to him whether he had not best return me his packet, as it would be a delay of some days at least to have another from the Treasury department for the person to be appointed in his room; He therefore returned it to me.
I ventured to do thus much of myself, conceiving by the circular letter of the Secretary to the Commissioners—a copy of which he enclosed to me—that an immediate attention to the business of their appointment was expected, and knowing that any delay on their part would occasion a proportionate hurry in my office, on which in the first instance is devolved the execution of the “Act to lay and collect a direct tax within the United States,” and I have so far presumed to interrupt you Sir; as to give you this information.
If I can be in any way useful to you here in the furtherance of the business mentioned, upon the first notice I will have the honor to attend you / Being with the highest consideration, / respect & esteem, / Sir, / your most obedient servant,

J. Jackson, Supervisor


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 20 August 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir.
War Department 20 Augt. 1798

I had the honour to receive your letter of the 14th on the 21st instant.
After what has passed with, and the conceptions of General Washington, respecting the relative grades of Generals Hamilton, Pinckney & Knox; the order observed by the President in presenting their names to the Senate, and by the Senate, in advising to the appointments, I cannot help apprehending some disagreeable consequences to the public service, should a different relative grade, be now known to be decisively contemplated. In submitting this suggestion to your judgement, it is indispensible I should observe, that as well the choice of these gentlemen, as their relative military rank, proceeded originally and exclusively from General Washington; and that I had no agency direct or indirect, before, or while at Mount Vernon in deciding his mind, either to the choice or the arrangement of the rank of those selected. I informed you that he made the right to name the General officers & general staff a condition of his acceptance, and presented to you accordingly his list on my return. When he communicated his choice and arrangement I was aware that it might be objected to; but having had difficulties to encounter, and certain impressions to remove, resulting from his not being consulted previous to his nomination, I did not think it prudent to lose the ground he had conceded, or indeed, that I should gain any thing by any effort of mine to persuade him out of his opinions. I only, therefore, mentioned to him what I afterwards found he incorporated in his letter to Col. Hamilton, vz. That I concurred in his selection of officers, but whatever respected the persons named by him, and their relative rank must finally rest with the President.
The circumstances I have detailed seem to require, that I should submit to your serious deliberation, whether it will be proper and expedient to attempt an alteration in the rank of the gentlemen in question; and if so then, whether such a course as is indicated in the inclosed letters to General Knox, would not be preferable to a direct reference of the subject to General Washington, at this time, sanctioned by your authority, and perhaps less wounding to the feelings of the parties. If you decide upon this mode you will be pleased to give orders for transmitting these inclosed letters to Gen. Knox. If otherwise, I am prepared to exert my best endeavours to execute your commands.
My eldest child is extremely ill, and I am far from being in health, two circumstances, which added to the necessity of attending to business distress and oppress me beyond expression.
With the most sincre attachment I have the honour to be sir / your faithful & hbl servt

James McHenry


Title: To John Adams from William Vans Murray, 20 August 1798
From: Murray, William Vans
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir,
The Hague 20 Augt. 1798.

My very worthy Secretary Mr. Bartolemew Dandridge is so animated with the energy which our country displays, & so devoted to the fair and honourable cause of the government over which You Sir preside as to request me to apply to You for a commission in the army. As he has the honour to be known to you Sir I need only to add that ever since he has lived with me he has daily risen in my esteem. He is a true and loyal american and inspired by a genuine ardour for the Independence & glory of America. He is intelligent—a man of strict honour and of spirit.
I take the liberty Sir of making application to you immediately both because you have from my youth been kindly indulgent to me in all things, and from a motive of delicacy which restrains me from applying to the Secretary at War, Mr. McHenry—I wish for his nephew to succeed Mr. Dandridge if he obtains the honour of bearing your military commission.
Mr. Dandridge would prefer a commission in the Infantry;—next to that, in the Horse—He is diffident in his pretentions as to grade—With great deference Sir I would ask for him, a Captaincy in either—He would be happy in a station inferior to that rank—but he has had the honour of being confidential Secretary to the late President—If no grade higher than that of Ensign or cornet could be bestow’d on him he will be happy to accept of either.
The enclosed paper was given to me this morning by Mr. Van der Gow the minister of Foreign Affairs. It is authentic—though not authenticated—and proves that the Dutch minister at Paris has acted as I stated lately to the Secretary of State—He made a verbal application to know if his government could not be instrumental in acting as the intermediary between the United States & France, now that all diplomatic communication had ended—In a day or two after Mr. Talleyrand gave him the enclosed written answer. This proves a solicitude to which the energy of the American Government sustained by union among the People has given birth. It will be in the power of the Government to take a wide survey of the question, and to make a very dignify’d use of the subject matter of this paper. The Subject matter has been published in the papers here—This proceeded I believe from France. I have the honour to be with the most perfect / respect and highest esteem / Dear Sir yr. mo: obt. srt.

W. V. Murray


Title: To John Adams from Va. Freeholders of Prince Edward County, 20 August 1798
From: Freeholders of Prince Edward County, Va.
To: Adams, John

20 August 1798

At a meeting of the freeholders of Prince Edward county, in the state of Virginia, convened on Monday the twentieth of August 1798, for the purpose of considering the present state of American affairs, in consequence of five weeks previous notice:
Resolved, by a large majority; that the following address be immediately transmitted to “The President of the United States.”
Sir,
If amidst the multitude of addresses with which you are presented from every quarter of the Union, you can yield a moment’s attention to the Freeholders of Prince Edward, they beg leave to lay before you somewhat of their feelings and opinions on the present awefull crisis of American affairs.
It is not our design to approach the Chief Magistrate of the United States without respect, while we deliver our sentiments with the unreservedness and independance of free men. Obedience to the laws and attachment to the government established by the choice of our country, we esteem as the primary duties of good citizens. But while we acknowledge this principle, we cannot relinquish the constitutional privilege of altering our approbation, or censure, of those measures by which our highest interests, and most invaluable rights, are strongly affected.
Be assured, Sir, that it is our firm resolution to repair to the American standard when our exertions shall be necessary to repel the invasion, or aggressions, of a foreign foe; and that we are prepared to sacrafice property and life, in the defence of our country. Yet, contemplating war as the most dreadfull of human calamities, (except the scourge of despotism, and the insolence of tyrants,) we censure and regret the policy by which we shall be unnecessarily involved in its horrors: particularly, when no proportional object can be attained by its pursuit. Can we, for an instant, flatter ourselves, that the strength of America, destitute as she is of the means of attacking a distant enemy, is competent to the great scheme, of humbling the haughtiness and the power of France? Or of compelling her to a compensation for injuries, which has been sought in vain by negociation? A negociation, commenced without respect to those considerations, which, if obscured, would have afforded the pleasing hope of success; and which has, we fear, been too hastily abandoned. Earnestly deprecating the mischiefs that must result from a conflict such as that in which the Government seems to be determined, we intreat you, Sir, to retract the rash resolution you have formed, of ceasing to make overtures of accomodation to the French; and to adopt some speedy and effectual plan for conciliating the differences between the two Republics. A contrary policy will, we apprehend, incurr the danger of binding our fate to that of a government opposed essentialy to our constitutional principles, tottering to its basis, and verging rapidly to decay.
Nor can we be silent upon another subject. Some of the most distinguished acts of the late session of Congress, which have received the last legal sanction of your approbation, merit, in our judgement, the bitterest censure. We have been heretofore reluctant to believe, that there were characters in our Foederal councils capable of designing the overthrow of our rights, and the destruction of our liberties. But the odious alien and sedition bills have gone far towards establishing us in this persuasion. When we see the freedom of speech and opinion criminated, and restricted; the trial by jury abolished, as far as relates to a comprehensive description of individuals; and the President invested with a dangerous and unlimited power, which may be excercised for the most oppressive purposes, we are seriously alarmed at the probable consequences, and reprobate these flagrant violations of the supreme law of our land—a law which ought ever to be deemed sacred, and which it is higly criminal to infringe. If a single infraction of the Constitution is committed and acquiesced in, we dread the precedent as leading to similar evils, the extent of which is incalculable. Permit us then to flatter ourselves that your constitutional powers will be exerted on the earliest occasion, in the repeal of acts, which even the zealous friends of your administration do not advocate.


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 21 August 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy Aug 21st 1798.

I return you the duplicate talk signed & congratulate you on your recovery. I am Sir your most humble servant

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from John Jay, 21 August 1798
From: Jay, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Albany 21 Augt. 1798.—

I have the Honor of transmitting to You, herewith enclosed, an address from the Senate and assembly of this State, which passed and was agreed to by both Houses unanimously—
It gives me pleasure to reflect that from this and the numerous other Expressions of the public Sentiment, relative to the reprehensible Conduct of France towards this country, you may rely on the decided Co-operation of the nation in the measures necessary to protect their Rights, and maintain their Honor and Independence—
I have too long known and too often been a witness to your patriotic and successful Exertions, not to be convinced that you well deserve both Confidence and Gratitude; and it is but doing them Justice to say that no Republics have given to their Patriots and Benefactors less cause of Complaint than the United States of America—
I have the Honor to be with great Respect and Esteem / Sir / your most obedt. & most h’ble. servt
John Jay


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 21 August 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Trenton August 21. 1798.

I inclose a letter which I received last evening under cover from Mr. Pedro Josef Caro, accompanied by a letter from Mr. King intended as an introduction to Mr. Caro; but the latter having missed a passage to the U. States in the British Cutter which sailed from Falmouth for New-York on the 20th of April, & circumstances requiring his arrival in So. America with as little delay as possible, he forwarded the packet to me. A copy of the translation of his letter to me I have the honor to inclose.
Under the same cover to me were inclosed two letters, one for Colo. Hamilton, the other for General Knox, which I forward by this post to those gentlemen.
I am with perfect respect / sir / your obt. servt.
Timothy Pickering


Title: Remission of Punishment for John Scotchlar, 22 August 1798
From: Adams, John,Pickering, Timothy, Jr.
To:

John Adams, President of the United States of America.
To all to whom these presents shall come, Greeting:22 August 1798

Whereas John Scotchlar, late of the District of Massachusetts, Yeoman, at a Circuit Court of the United States, lately holden in and for the said District was duly convicted of larceny against the form and effect of An Act of the Congress of the United States, entitled “an Act for the punishment of certain crimes against the United States,” and by the Judgment of the same Court, the said John Scotchlar was sentenced and adjudged to pay a fine of One hundred and sixty Dollars, one moiety thereof to the use of the United States, and the other moiety thereof to the informer, and be publicly whipped twenty stripes, and to stand committed till the said sentence of the Court was complied with: And whereas by letters patent dated on the 22nd. day of August last, on the petetion of the said John Scotchlar, I did remit to him the said corporal punishment: And whereas the said John Scotchlar has by his other petition besought a remission of that part of the fine aforesaid adjudged to be paid to the use of the United States. Therefore   that  considered the case of the said John Scotchlar, I have thought it proper, and by these presents, do further grant unto the said John Scotchlar remission of the said fine so far as the United States are concerned therein, hereby willing and requiring that all prosecutions and other proceedings against him the said John Scotchlar, for or by reason thereof, be forthwith stayed and discharged.
In Testimony whereof, I have made these Letters Patent, and caused the Seal of the United States to be affixed hereto, at Philadelphia, this Nineteenth day of July A.D. one thousand seven hundred and ninety nine, and in the twenty fourth year of the Independence of the said States.

John AdamsBy the President of the United States,

Timothy PickeringSecretary of State.Boston July 30th: 1799—
I the Subscriber being intitled to the one Moiety of the Penalty adjudged against John Scotchlar within named—do hereby release & relinquish to Him the said Scotchlar any demand arising to Me from the P. Judgment & Conviction

John WyerAnd on the said July the 30th. I do by Virtue of these Letters Patent—release from Goal John Scotchlar within named & direct they that He be accordingly released

Saml Bradford Marshal of Massachusetts