Title: From John Adams to Thomas Jefferson, 25 December 1787
From: Adams, John
To: Jefferson, Thomas

            Dear Sir
            London Decr. 25. 1787

          By the last Post I answered your Letter of the 12, and Yesterday received yours of the 16.— Com. Jones has before now delivered you dispatches that will Serve no doubt for your direction. Mr Van staphorst, will have no Objection to an handsome Commission, for paying off, the Debt Mr Fizeaux mentions: and Mr Fizeau, will be glad

to have it paid off, that the Money Lenders not knowing what to do with their Money may be tempted to put it into his French loan. But I am persuaded the Money Lenders on receiving their Interest would very willingly let the Principal remain, till the Arrangements of Congress can discharge it.— it will cost the United States Eight Per Cent, to transfer this debt, and four or five thousand Guilders are worth Saving.
          It would rejoice me in my soul to meet you, before I embark for America. But I am so ill, of an uncommon Cold, the present Weather is so formidable and a Journey to Holland in the Winter is So cruel, that I am obliged to excuse myself from taking leave in Person of the States general, and shall Send a Memorial. The Time for me is short and there are many Things to do, so that I must confine myself to London, but if you could venture over here and See the August Spectakle of Mr Hastings’s Impeachment, you would make us all very happy.
          I Should advise you, by all means to make a Journey to Holland: but not before the Month of May. a Letter to some of the Corps Diplomatique, will introduce You to them and to Court. and Messrs Willinks and Vanstaphorsts will Shew you Amsterdam, and explain to you Money matters.
          With Sincere Esteem and Affection, I am / Dear sir your most obedient and most / humble servant

            John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Mercy Warren, 25 December 1787
From: Adams, John
To: Warren, Mercy Otis

            Madam
            London Decr 25. 1787

          The Sack of Rome, has So much Merit in itself that for the honour of America, I Should wish to See it acted on the Stage in London before crouded Audiences. The Dedication of it does so much honour to me, that I should be proud to see it in print even if it could not be acted. I have shown it, in discreet confidence to Several good Judges, but least their opinion might not be Satisfactory I procured

it at last to be seriously read, by several of the first tragical Writers in this nation. among whom were the Author of the Grecian Daughter and the Author of the Carmelite. They have noted their opinion in a Writing that is inclosed. It requires almost as much interest and Intrigue to get a Play Acted, as to be a Member of Parliament. and a printed Play that has not been Acted will not sell.— I have not been able to find a Printer who would accept the Copy on Condition of printing it.
          In short nothing American sells here. Ramsays History Dwight & Barlows Poems are not sold. nor, I fear will Dr Gordons, notwithstanding the prescious Materials he must be possessed of.
          There is a universal desire and Endeavour to forget America, and an unanimous Resolution to read nothing which Shall bring it to their Thoughts. They cannot recollect it, without Pain.
          Your Annals or History, I hope you will continue, for there are few Persons possessed of more Facts, or who can record them in a more agreable manner. Yet let me not deceive you. America must Support the Publication of it. no other Country will contribute much towards it.
          In the Month of April, May or June, I hope to see / my Friends at Milton Hill. in the mean time I / am, Madam, with great Esteem, your / most obedient and most humble servant

            John Adams


Title: To John Adams from François Adriaan van der Kemp, 29 December 1787
From: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan
To: Adams, John

            Monseigneur!
            Anvers 29. Dec. 1787.

          L’année passé j’avois l’honneur de communiquer a votre l’Excellence mon desir de passer en Amerique avec ma famille pour m’etablir dans l’etat de New-york: vous aviez la bonté de me donner des informations sur ce projet, joignant a cela la flatteuse promesse, de vouloir bien, dans un tel cas m’honorer de vos recommandations.1 Dans ce tems mon Epouse ne pouvoit prendre la resolution de chercher un azile dans L’autre monde, et l’ardent desir de satisfaire a ses voeux m’a fait prendre pour cet fois la meme parti. A present le Sort est change—ma malheureuse patrie est tombé dans le fers— Le plus honnetes ont eté le victimes. et celui, que vous avez bien voulu honor de votre confiance, pendant le Sejour de votre Excellence dans cet pays, a eté emprisonné avec Son digne Ami Mr. de Nÿs, aprez la prise de Wyck par les Etats d’Utrecht, pendant vingt quatre Semaine, comme prisonniers d’Etats, et relaché le 19 Dec. apres avoir namptise f45000—
          On avoit le plan, comme le bruit public confirmé par des informations bien Sures, de m’emmener a Lourestein, Sitot que je Serois retourner en Hollande—et ce fut, apres les conseils de mes amis, de J. L. Prof. a Leyde, que je quitte la territoire de la Republiq[ue] aÿant auparavant au moi de Novembre demandé a Leyde la demission de ma place, et l’obtenu de La maniere la plus flatteuse et honorable—2
          Privé a present de deux mille florins par en la necessite nous contraint de prendre un parti, que j’aurois choisi pour ma part longtems avant. L’amerique ou L’Angleterre Sont a present le Seul paÿs, ou je me pourrois etablir. L’Amerique, l’objet de mes plus ardens desirs, Sera notre choix, Si les circonstances de cet nouveau Empire ne Sont point empirees, par rapport a la subsistance frugale dans le plat pays, Si votre Excellence daigne m’honorer encore de ses lettres

de recommandation. Mr. van de Marsch, a present a Bruxelles,3 Mr. J. Luzac a Leyde pourront informer votre Excellence, que je ne Suis moins digne, d’obtenir cet faveur de votre Excelence, qu’auparavant, et la necessitè de rendre une ville avec cent et vingt Burgeois a 1500 militaires, munis d’un train d’artillerie, ne chargera nos caracteres d’aucune tache. j’attend mon Epouse avec Ses 2. enfans et un domestique icy, Sitot quelle aura vendu mes biens—et je souhaitrois de partir en Amerique au Mois de Mars prochain. Ce sera le bonheur de ma famille, et l’accomplissement de tous mes Souhaits Si je Suis en etats, de pouvoir par le debris de ma fortune trouver dans les environs d’albanie, ou dans le plat pays d’Etats de New-york, de moyens pour faire Subsister ma famille—et Si nous Sommes assez heureux de recevoir de recommandations de part de votre Excellence pour le New-york. allors vous auriez le plaisir d’avoir Sauvér une digne famille, d’avoir fait Sa bonheur—
          Ayez la bonté de m’honorer de votre rep[. . .]se / et croyez, que je Suis avec la plus parfaite estime [. . .] consi[. . .]tion due / Monseigneur / De Votre Excellence le / plus obeissant Serviteur

            Fr. Adr. vanderKemp

            P. S. Mons. Max: Solvÿns, dans le Peterpot Straet recoit icÿ le lettres pour moi1

          TRANSLATION

            Sir
            Antwerp, 29 December 1787

          This past year I had the honor of relating to your excellency my wish to travel to America with my family, intending to settle in New York State. You had the goodness of offering me information for the project, adding to it the flattering promise that you would be happy to honor me, if I made the move, with your recommendations. At that time, my wife could not resolve to seek asylum in the new world, and my ardent desire to satisfy her wishes led me to take her side in this choice. Fortune, at present, has taken another turn. My unfortunate homeland has been bound in chains. The most upright have fallen victim, and the man whom you were well pleased to honor with your trust during your excellency’s stay in this country was imprisoned after Wyck’s capture by the states of Utrecht, along with his worthy friend, Mr. de Nijs, for twenty-four weeks as prisoners of the states and released 19 December after having paid f45,000.
          According to public rumors confirmed by reliable information, there was a plot to take me to Lourestein as soon as I returned to Holland. Following the advice of my friends, and of Jean Luzac, professor at Leyden, I therefore left the territory of the republic, having tendered my resignation

beforehand during the month of November at Leyden and obtained it in the most flattering and honorable way possible.
          Now deprived of two thousand florins per year, necessity forces us to come to the decision that, for my part, I would have taken long ago. America and England are at present the only countries where I could settle. America, the object of my most ardent desires, will be our choice if the circumstances of this new empire have not worsened relative to the meager subsistence in Flanders, and if your excellency will still do me the honor to write letters of recommendation for me. Mr. van de Marsch, presently in Brussels, and Mr. J. Luzac, in Leyden, can inform your excellency that I am no less worthy of obtaining such a favor from your excellency than before, and the need to give a town inhabited by one hundred and twenty burghers over to 1,500 soldiers provided with an artillery train will not burden our characters with any stain. I await my wife, along with two children and a domestic servant, here, as soon as she sells off my effects—and I hope to leave for America sometime next March. It will mean the happiness of my family and the realization of all of my hopes if I am able to find the means to provide for my family with what little is left of my fortune, whether in the vicinity of Albany or in the plains of New York State. And if we are lucky enough to receive recommendations from your excellency for New York, then you will have the pleasure of having saved a worthy family, of having made their good fortune.
          Have the goodness to honor me with your reply and believe that I am, with the most perfect esteem and consideration, sir, your excellency’s most obedient servant

            Fr. Adr. vanderKemp

            P.S. Mr. Max Solvyns, residing in Peterpot Street, gathers correspondence for me here.


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Jefferson, 31 December 1787
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Adams, John

            Dear Sir
            Paris Dec. 31. 1787.

          Mr. Parker furnishes me an opportunity of acknoleging the receipt of your favors of Nov. 10. Dec. 6. 10. 18. & 25. which I avoid doing thro post. the orders on the subject of our captives at Algiers have come to me by the last packet. they are to be kept secret even from the captives themselves, lest a knolege of the interference of government should excite too extravagant demands. the settlement of the prices, in the first instance, is important as a precedent.— Willincks & Van Staphorsts answered that they had money enough to pay the February interest, and our draughts for salary for some time, but that the paiment of Fiseaux’ capital would oblige them to advance of their own money: they observed too that the paiment of such a sum without the orders of the treasury would lay them under an unnecessary responsibility. I therefore concluded the business by desiring them to pay the year’s interest becoming due tomorrow, and praying mr̃ Fiseaux to quiet the lenders with that till I could procure the orders of the Treasury to whom I wrote immediately an account of the whole transaction. I was the better satisfied with this on receiving your letter of the 25th. by which I find it your opinion that our credit may not suffer so materially. the declining the paiment came from the Willincks, the Van Staphorsts having offered to advance their moiety. I inclose you a letter I have received from the Comptroller general and an arret on the subject of our commerce. they are the proof sheets, as, at the moment of writing my letter, I have not yet received the fair ones. but the French column is correct enough to be understood. I would wish them not to be public till they are made so on the other side of the water.— I think the alliance of this court with the two imperial ones is going on well. you will have heard of the Emperor’s having attempted to surprise Belgrade & failed in the attempt. this necessarily engages him in the war, & so tends to continue it. I think it settled that this country abandons the Turks.
          Mr. Parker takes charge of the 10. aunes of double Florence for mr̃s. Adams. the silk stockings are not yet ready. I had ordered them to be made by the hermits of Mont Calvaire who are famous for the excellence & honesty of their work, & prices. they will come by the first good opportunity. Be so good as to present my respects to her,

and to be assured of the sincere attachment & respect of Dear Sir / Your most obedient / & most humble servant

            Th: Jefferson


Title: From John Adams to Wilhem & Jan Willink and Nicolaas & Jacob van Staphorst, 2 January 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Willink, Wilhem & Jan (business),Staphorst, Nicolaas & Jacob van (business)

            Gentlemen—

              Jany. 2. 1788.

          I last night received your favour of the 25th. of last month— Mr. Jefferson has received lately by Commodore Jones further proceedings of Congress, which perhaps may have altered his sentiments of the Propriety of paying off the 51.000 florins to Mr. Fizeau & Co: as I apprehend Congress have made a different arrangement for that purpose— For myself, Gentlemen, I should be glad with all my heart to comply with your request to me, to desist from accepting further drafts for account of the United states, and shall certainly do so as far as possible
          But I am sorry to inform you, that I shall be obliged to draw upon Messrs Pullers, on your account and consequently on account of the United states, for a large sum of money in the Course of this & the next month— You may have seen in the public Prints that in consequence of my request to Congress, almost a year ago. I am now permitted to return to America in the spring— As I shall not think it prudent to embark before the Vernal Equinox, I must draw for Cash to live on for three months at least to come which will ammount to six hundred Guineas—we will say— There is allowed by a standing resolution of Congress to every foreign minister six

hundred & 25 pounds, to pay his expences of preparations & Voyage home—& where there is a family & furniture as in my case it will be found little enough— There are some debts of the United states to be paid here moreover, before I go. so that I can’t hope to get away without drawing for 15 or 1600 Guineas—
          Besides this Colonel Smith the secretary of the Legation of the United states here must have the means of living & the means of returning home with his family to what amount his demands will arise I know not yet— upon the whole, I shall use on my own part as I ever have done the utmost frugality in my power but I cannot avoid drawing for those sums— Tho’ Mr. Fizzeaux 51.000 Guilders should remain unpaid, till the plan of Congress takes effect— In order to save the expences of a Journey to the Hague & Amsterdam, amongst other reasons—I shall not go in Person to take leave of their High Mightinesses— I take the liberty to communicate to you in Confidence, a Copy of the resolution of Congress by which I am recalled— Delicacy would have forbidden me to communicate it, to any one in Holland, before it was communicated to their High Mightinesses and the Prince, if it had not been already printed in all the American Newspapers & taken from thence into those of Europe to you Gent. & your family’s I wish the compliments of the season & to wish all happiness & prosperity.
          Yours.

            J. A.


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Brand Hollis, [ca. 2 January 1788]
From: Hollis, Thomas Brand
To: Adams, John

            Dear Sir
            [ca. 2 January 1788]

          I had hopes given me that I should have had the pleasure of seeing you here & I did not despair till the Snow came now it will not be long before I shall wait on you in town when I hope to find you well & in good Spirits.
          The late behaivour of the Judge in the case of Spotwood the attorney, by whose direction he was brought in guilty of perjury the merits of case know not but that he has moved for a new trial, has

awakened all my fears regarding the sacredness of Juries & renewed by the memory of the Dean of st Asaph’s trial which was conducted with most consummate art & management both in wales shorpshire & westminster & determined by the said Judge these & other numerous attacks to annull & set aside Juries should be sufficient caution to the Americans to preserve inviolate that sacred right, peculiar to the English & their descendants, & to extend it to civil causes also for I fear application for redress to a large body will always be attended with expence delay & difficulty.
          it is said by the new constitution Juries not to extend to civil causes!
          I beg leave to mention to your excellency with the freedom of a republican another circumstance which I hear has given some uneasiness at Boston a tax on advertisements. in this country it is become a real Grievance. it is raised & levied by a low office who set as Judges on what they do not understand & for gain construe every article almost as an advertisement. thus it becomes a heavy tax upon literature prevents communication of sentiments doing justice to the dead damps information regarding arts & sciences & in short, with the preventing franking & the heavy tax on letters & on imported books prints marbles & Pictures which latter prevents improvement.
          all this chain of taxes improperly laid & tending to power ignorance & folly discovers the Spirit of the present government as not acting upon free manly liberal principles but contracted mercenary & Isolated & provides only for the present day regardless of consequences But the Americans acting on other principles may avoid these inconveniences & restraints as their government is founded upon principles which will bare examination & dreads no enquiry & have excelled from that principle. crush it not therefore in the bud but let it spread & florish to show what the human mind is capable of— which I beleive has no limits. permit me therefore to desire your excellency would inform yourself of the nature extent & power of this miserable office who it is composed of & what real & just cause of complaint & from those to whom the publick are most indebted for their Labors.
          I have only to add my sincere complts to all your family & hope mr Smith is perfectly recovered and desire the honor of your company & his to an Essex Turkey on wednesday 9th. at Four en famille and persuade mr Jennings to met you. I am Dr Sir your faithfull Friend

            T. Brand Hollis


Title: From John Adams to Thomas Brand Hollis, 4 January 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Hollis, Thomas Brand

            Dear Sir,
            Grosvenor Square, January 4, 1788.

          I am in your debt for several very friendly letters, all of which shall be answered hereafter. I have had a great cold, which brought with it some fever, and has disabled me from every thing for three weeks.
          Your kind invitation for Wednesday the 9th, is accepted with pleasure, by Mr. Smith as well as myself.
          And now, sir, for other matters. Our new constitution does not expressly say that juries shall not extend to civil causes.— Nor, I presume, is it intended, to take away the trial by jury in any case, in which you, sir, yourself would wish to preserve it.— Maritime causes, must be decided by the law of nations, and in conformity to the practice of the world. In these cases juries would not be willing to sit as judges, nor would the parties be contented with their judgment. Juries understand not the nature, nor the law of foreign transactions. We began, about twelve years ago, with juries in our courts of admiralty: but I assure you, the parties, witnesses, juries, judges, and all the world became so weary of the innovation upon trial, that it was laid aside by a new law with universal satisfaction. The examinations on interrogatories of witnesses and parties, in short the whole course of proceedings, as well as all the rules of evidence, must be changed, before juries could be introduced with propriety.

          Taxes on advertisements, and on every thing that contributes to facilitate the communication of knowledge, I should wish to avoid as much as possible.
          Whether the human mind has limits or not, we ought not to fix a limit to its improvement, until we find it and are sure of it:—incumbered with gross bodies and weak senses, there must be some bounds to its refinements in this world: you and I entertain the joyous hope, of other states of improvement without end: and for my part, I wish that you and I may know each other, and pursue the same objects together in all of them. Fair science, equity, liberty, and society will be adorable for ever.
          I am, with great esteem, / my dear sir, / your friend and servant,

            John Adams.


Title: From John Adams to François Adriaan van der Kemp, 6 January 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan

            Sir
            London Jan. 6. 1788

          As I had suffered much Anxiety on your Account during your Imprisonment, your Letter of the 29. of last month gave me some relief. I rejoiced to find that you was at liberty and out of danger.
          inclosed are two Letters, which I hope may be of Service to you.— living is now cheaper, than it has been, in America, and I doubt not you will Succeed very well.— You will be upon your guard, among the Dutch People in New York, respecting religious Principles, untill you have prudently informed yourself of the State of Parties there.— if you should not find every Thing to your Wish in New York, I think in Pennsilvania, you cannot fail. But New York is the best Place, to go to, at first. I wish you a pleasant Voyage, and am sir your most / obedient servant

            John Adams.


Title: To John Adams from Wilhem & Jan Willink and Nicolaas & Jacob van Staphorst, 8 January 1788
From: Willink, Wilhem & Jan (business),Staphorst, Nicolaas & Jacob van (business)
To: Adams, John

            Amsterdam 8th. February [January] 1788

          We are honored with Your Excellency’s respected favor of 2d. Inst: with Copy of the Resolution of Congress conveying your Recall, and a Testimony of your Services and Merits, the more honorable, as it comes from the only Source capable of appreciating justly their Value. Upon which please accept our Congratulations, together with

our Wishes for your safe Return to your Native Country, Where we hope you and your Family (to whom we and our’s reciprocate the Compliments of the Season) may enjoy all Happiness, and the Marks of Gratitude due to a Life devoted to the public Service.—
          It pains us much not to be able to discharge the f51ñ— due by Congress the First Instant, from our Persuasion the Interest and Credit of the United-States render it an Object highly desirable. But since you are pleased to direct its Postponement, and to prefer the Application of the Funds of the United-States in our Hands to the Demands of Yourself and Coll: Smith for the Expences of returning to America &c. We shall honor the Bills you intend to pass to the Amount of Fifteen or Sixteen Hundred Guineas, not doubting but you will be able to satisfy Congress with such an Appropriation, as fully as you appear to have done in other Matters.— In this instance however, We must confess, it would have been exceeding proper and agreeable to us, to have received directions from the Board of Treasury; And we must repeat our earnest Request to your Excellency, to impress most strongly on the Commissioners, the absolute necessity of our being furnished with Orders respecting Objects of such Importance; And we earnestly recommend Your Excellency, to state and urge in the most forcible Light, the Pretensions of the Money-Lenders here, to the utmost Exertions of the United-States, to be punctual towards those who have placed Confidence in Congress; Which Justice and Policy equally claim.
          We / are very respectfully / Your Excellency’s / Most obedient and / very humble Servants

            Wilhem & Jan WillinkNics. & Jacob van Staphorst.


Title: To John Adams from Philip Mazzei, 11 January 1788
From: Mazzei, Philip
To: Adams, John

            Stimmo: e Carmo: Signore,
            Parigi, 11. Gennaio 1788.

          È comparso alla luce un’elogio dell’Abate di Mably, scritto sotto gli auspici dei 2. vecchi Abati ben noti a Vostr’ Eccellenza, uno dei quali è (a mio giudizio) un gran birbone, e l’altro un buon coglione.1 Secondo il detto elogio, Vostr’ Eccellenza pregò l’Abate di Mably d’aver la bontà d’illuminare noi poveri ignoranti Americani su i principi di legislazione e d’amministrazione, e quando il suo liber culo comparve, V.S. disse ai due Abati “Questo libro farà la nostra felicità,

o la nostra vergogna. Se faremo quel che c’insegna, farà la nostra felicità: se non lo faremo, farà la nostra vergogna.” Due anni sono ebbi l’onore di scriverle, che gli abati avevano avuto la sfacciataggine di dire a me l’istessa cosa, ma non avrei creduto che avrebbero ardito di far’annunziare al Pubblico l’istesse audaci asserzioni, e di offrirsi a renderne testimonianza. Se Ella giudica proprio di contradire l’ardite e sfacciate menzogne, che io (se mi riguardassero) prenderei per calunnie, avrò cura di far’ inserire nei fogli pubblici tutto ciò che su tal particolare mi communicherà. In tal caso (per mettere in ridicolo la pretesa data commissione) sarebbe a proposito di citare quel che soleva dire Piron, cioè: “La gente prende le cose in oggi tanto alla lettera, che quando dico a qualcheduno Servitore umilmo:, temo sempre che il giorno dopo mi mandi la livrea fino a casa.”2
          Il Sigr: Pietro Molini, libraio in Londra, riceverà tra 4 o 6 giorni due esemplari del mio libro, per rimetterne uno a V. E., e l’altro al Col. Smith. Bramo con tutto il cuore che la qualità della materia possa corrispondere alla quantità.
          Pregandola dei miei rispettosi e sinceri ossequi alla sua degna Signora, ò l’onor di soscrivermi, / Di Vostra Eccellenza, / Devmo: ed Umilmo: Servitore

            Filippo Mazzei

            P. S. Be so Kind as to deliver the inclosed to our good friend Col. Smith.3

          TRANSLATION

            Most esteemed and dearest sir
            Paris, 11 January 1788

          A eulogy of the Abbé de Mably has come to light, written under the auspices of two old abbes well-known to your excellency, one of whom (in my judgment) is a great rogue, and the other a complete blockhead. According to said eulogy, your excellency begs the Abbé de Mably to have the goodness to illuminate us poor, ignorant Americans on the principles of legislation and administration, and when his worthless book appears, your excellency says to the two abbés, “This book will be either our happiness or our shame. If we do what it teaches us, it will be our happiness: if we do not do it, it will be our shame.” For two years I have had the honor to write to you that the abbés have had the brazenness to say the same thing to me, but I never believed that they would have dared to announce the same audacious assertions to the public, and present you as producing testimony for them. If you judge it appropriate to contradict the bold and impudent lies, that I (if they were about me) would take as slander, I will be sure to have everything that you communicate to me regarding this particular inserted into the public papers. In such a case (to show how ridiculous the

claim is) it would be worth citing what Piron used to say, that is, “People today take things to the letter so much so, that when I say to someone most humble servant, I am always afraid that the next day they will send their livery all the way to my house.”
          Mr. Pietro Molini, a bookseller in London, will receive two copies of my book in four to six days, one to send to your excellency, and the other to Colonel Smith. I hope with all my heart that the quality of the materials may correspond to the quantity.
          I beg you to send my most respectful and sincere regards to your worthy wife, and have the honor of signing myself, your excellency’s most devoted and most humble servant

            Filippo Mazzei

            P. S. Be so Kind as to deliver the inclosed to our good friend Col. Smith.


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Jefferson, 13 January 1788
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Adams, John

            Dear Sir
            Paris Jan. 13. 1788—

          I informed you in my letter of the 31st. of December of the measures I had taken relative to the reimbursement of the 51,000 gelders to Fizeaux & co. to wit, that I had asked the Willincks and Van Staphorsts to pay the interest, & written to the board of treasury for their orders as to the principal. I inclose you a letter just received from Fizeaux & co. now Hugguer, Grand & co. by which you will perceive that they have recieved the interest, but that the creditors will not consent to delay the reimbursement of their capital. I inclose you a copy also of what I now write to the Willincks & Van Staphorsts, and will beg of you to give or refuse your sanction, as you think best, but in a letter sent directly to them, because I find by their letters to mr̃ Jac. Van Staphorst, they will not be contented with the indirect authorisation of your former letter to me. perhaps in any other case, the creditors would have been quieted. but Fizeaux is retired from business & chuses to wind up all his affairs. probably therefore he has not endeavoured to quiet the creditors; perhaps he may consider their clamours as an useful engine to hasten his extrication from this business. be this as it may, their clamours, should they be raised, may do us great injury. but of this you are the best judge. I am with great & sincere esteem, Dear Sir, your most obedient & most humble servant

            Th: Jefferson


Title: From John Adams to the Marquis of Carmarthen, 21 January 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Carmarthen, the Marquis of

            My Lord
            Grosvenor Square Jan. 21. 1788

          I do myself the Honour to inclose to your Lordship a Resolution of Congress of the fifth day of October last, by which I am permitted to return to America, at anytime after the Twenty fourth Day of February 1788. As it is my Intention to embark on board the Ship Lucretia John Calahan Commander, I must request of your Lordship to obtain the neccessary orders that the Same Priviledges be granted in Shipping my Baggage, as are usually allowed to other foreign Ministers of equal Rank.
          Let me further Request of your Lordship to obtain of the King and Queen, the Appointment of a Time when I may have the Honour of an Audience to take Leave of their Majestys, on Some day previous to the twenty fourth of February next.
          With great Respect, I have the / Honour to be, my Lord, your / Lordships most obedient and / most humble Servant

            John Adams.


Title: Memorial to the States General, 25 January 1788
From: Adams, John
To: States General

          To their High Mightinesses, the Lords the States General of the United Netherlands—A Memorial

            High & Mighty Lords—
            [25 January 1788]

          The Subscriber, Minister Plenipotentiary from the United States of America, has the Honour to communicate to your High Mightinesses, a resolution of the United States of America, in Congress

assembled, on the fifth day of october 1787. by which, he is permitted, agreably to his request, to return to America, at any time, after the 24th. of February 1788. and by which his Commission & Credentials to your High Mightinesses are, on that day to terminate—
          Nothing would have been more agreable to the Inclinations of the subscriber, than to have passed over to the Hague in order to have paid his final respects & to have taken leave of Your High Mightinesses had not, the shortness of the time, the severity of the season and the Tender State of his Health been opposed to his Wishes—
          The Magnanimity and Wisdom with which your High Mightinesses in 1782 manifested your friendship to the United States of America, contributed to accellerate the general peace of the World which has lasted so long: and the Candour & Goodness of Your High Mightinesses and of the whole Republick, to the Subscriber as well as to his Country, have made impressions on his Mind, which neither Time place nor Circumstances can ever efface—
          In finishing his Course in Europe & in taking a respectful leave of your High Mightinesses, he begs leave to express his ardent wishes for the Happiness and prosperity of your High Mightinesses and your Families and his sincere assurances that in Whatever Country he may be, he shall never cease to pray for the Liberty, the Independence and the Universal Happiness and Prosperity of the whole Republick of the United netherlands
          Done at London this twenty fifth / Day of January A. D. 1788—

            Signed— John Adams


Title: Memorial to William V, Prince of Orange, 25 January 1788
From: Adams, John
To: William V, Prince of Orange and Stadholder of the Netherlands

          To His most serene Highness William the fifth, Prince of orange and Nassauw Hereditary Stadtholder and Governor of the United Provinces of the Netherlands—A Memorial—

            [25 January 1788]

          The subscriber, Minister Plenipotentiary from the United states of America has the Honour to acquaint his Most serene Highness, that the said United states in Congress assembled have given him, their permission to return to America, after the 24th. day of February 1788. & have resolved that his Mission to the Republick of the United Netherlands, should then determine, It is to him a Mortifying Circumstance, that it is not in his power to go, in Person to the Hague in order to take leave of their High Mightinesses and of your most serene Highness— But as he had the Honour, to be originally accredited by Congress to Your Most serene Highness, it is his duty, in taking leave of the Republick, to pay his respects to your most serene Highness in Writing.
          He asks leave to express his thanks for all the Civilities, he has from time to time, received at your Most serene Highnesses Court: and his sincere wishes for the universal felicity of the Republick in General; of your Most serene Highness of your Royal Consort; and illustrious Family—
          Done at Grosvenor square / in London this 25th. day of Janry 1788.

            Signed— John Adams.


Title: From John Adams to the Marquis of Carmarthen, 26 January 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Carmarthen, the Marquis of

            My Lord
            Grosvenor Square Jan. 26. 1788

          I have the Honour to inclose to your Lordship an original Letter from Governor Smallwood of Maryland; and a Petition from Mr Forrest relative to the Same Subject. The Petition, I have the Honour to request your Lordship to lay before his Majesty, if the Prayer of it, cannot otherwise be obtained.
          With great Respect I have the / Honour to be, My Lord your / Lordships most obedient and most / humble Servant

            John Adams.


Title: To John Adams from Wilhem & Jan Willink and Nicolaas & Jacob van Staphorst, 29 January 1788
From: Willink, Wilhem & Jan (business),Staphorst, Nicolaas & Jacob van (business)
To: Adams, John

            Amsterdam 29th: January 1788

          We are honored with Your Excellency’s respected favor of 22d. Inst:—informing us You and Colo: Smith will require £3000— Stg: previous to your Departure from Europe. Messrs: Pullers had already acquainted us therewith, and have Orders to hold that Sum at Your Disposal. The Bills on Mr: Rucker are regularly received by us.
          We take notice of your Dereliction of the Affairs of the United-States, and consequently of your Relation towards us, unto His Excellency Thos: Jefferson Esqr: To which We shall conform. This Minister has strongly urged the Payment of the f51,000— Guilders due by Congress the First Instant at the House of Hy: Fizeaux and Co: and We should have complied, had not the Letter from the Board of Treasury forwarded us by Colo: Smith, and of which we inclose a Copy signed by us, rendered the Support of the Credit of the United-States in Europe, dependant upon a very great and consequential Arrangement, without the Accomplishment of which, It would not be at all benefited by the partial discharge of the f 51m̃.—
          The present Mode of supplying the Federal Treasury, having rendered it very improbable in our Opinion, that the Commissioners would be able to make us Remittances to face the June Interest; We had revolved the matter in our Minds, and strived all in our power, to procure a timely Extension of Sale of the remaining Bonds of the last Loan, to effect this purpose. But unsuccessfully. And we are fully convinced there is no possibility of supplying this Object, but by the Proposal in our Letter of 18th: Inst: to the Board of Treasury, of which You have likewise herewith a Copy signed by us; Which Plan would operate as the Board wishes to view the Loan, “to provide a Fund for answering the Interest which might become due, ’till

such Time as a more efficacious system of General Revenue was provided.”—
          As we cannot well flatter ourselves, to receive the Answer of the Board, in season to conclude with the Subscribers and receive the Monies from them, for which they always take some Credit, We shall lay the matter officially before His Excellency Thos: Jefferson Esqr. and require his Approbation and Ratification of the Proposal, we have judged it the Interest of the United-States to accede to; And if as we doubt not, He will grant it, We shall lose no time in the Execution. The sole Objection, if any should be deemed sufficiently weighty, to counterbalance the extreme Advantages that will result to the United-States from the Adoption, would be the Payment of One Year’s Interest on the two Loans of the Liquidated-Debt; Which, exclusive of its being obviated, by being only an Anticipation, is removed by the Disposition of the Board of Treasury to make a Sacrifice, should this Point be considered one, where the Commissioners say “The last Expedient we are sensible may subject you to Inconvenience; but the Sacrifice will we doubt not be considered by the Government of the United-States, when its more solid Establishment may induce them to call forth, and compensate in a proper Manner your present Exertions to support their Credit—”
          It is highly pleasing to us, that the Importance we attributed to the proposed Arrangement for Sale of the remaining Bonds, is fully corroborated by the Letter, and our Acceptance of it, quite consonant to the Wishes of the Commissioners of the Treasury. We do not now entertain a doubt, of the propriety of using our best Exertions to consolidate same; Of which however We shall be happy to have Your Excellency’s Sentiments, Which We earnestly entreat you, to communicate to us with all possible Diligence.—
          We are respectfully / Your Excellency’s / Most obedient and very / humble Servants

            Wilhem & Jan WillinkNics. & Jacob van Staphorst.


Title: To John Adams from Sir Herbert Croft, 5 February 1788
From: Croft, Sir Herbert
To: Adams, John

            No. 36, Wigmore Stt. Cavendish Square. Feby. 5. [1788]

          Mr. Croft takes the liberty to present his compliments to Mr. Adams. His friend Mr. Shippen was to have done him the honour of introducing him to Mr. Adams, but, upon asking after Mr. S., it seems that he has left this country for France. Mr. C. hears also that Mr. Adams returns soon to America.
          If Mr. Adams would condescend so far as to afford Mr. C. an opportunity of explaining the new dictionary, on which he is employed, of the language spoken in Great Britain & America, which Mr. S. has probably mentioned; Mr. Adams will confer no common favour on Mr C. & may possibly hear something to gratify his friends in America. Mr. C. would be happy in the honour of waiting upon Mr. Adams, or of meeting him any day at Mr. Stockdale’s.


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Jefferson, 6 February 1788
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Adams, John

            Dear Sir
            Paris Feb. 6. 1788.

          The Commissioners of the treasury have given notice to Willincks & Van Staphorsts that they shall not be able to remit them one shilling till the new government gets into action; and that therefore the sole resource for the paiment of the Dutch interest till that period is

            in the progress of the last loan. Willincks & V.S. reply that there is not the least probability of raising as much on that loan as will pay the next June interest, & that if that paiment fails one day, it will do an injury to our credit which a very long time will not wipe off. a mr̃ Stanitski, one of our brokers, who holds 1,340,000 dollars of our domestic debt offers, if “we will pay him one year,” interest of that debt, he will have the whole of the loan immediately filled up, that is to say he will procure the sum of 622,840 florins still unsubscribed. his year’s interest (deducting from it 10 percent which he will allow for paiment in Europe instead of America) will require 180,000 florins of this money. Messrs. W. & V.S. say that, by this means, they can pay Fiseaux debt, and all the Dutch interest and our current expences here, till June 1789. by which time the new government may be in action. they have proposed this to the commissioners of the treasury. but it is evident possible that the delay of letters going & coming, with the time necessary between their receiving the answer & procuring the money, may force the decision of this proposition on me at the eleventh hour. I wish therefore to avail myself of your counsel before your departure on this proposition. your knowlege of the subject enables you to give the best opinion, and your zeal for the public interest, &, I trust, your friendly dispositions towards me will prompt you to assist me with your advice on this question, to wit, if the answer of the Commissioners does not come in time, and there shall appear no other means of raising the June interest, will it be worst to fail in that paiment, or to accept of about 700,000 florins, on the condition of letting 180,000 be applied to the paiment of a year’s interest of a part of our domestic debt? do me the friendship to give me an answer to this as soon as possible & be assured of the sentiments of esteem & respect with which I have the honour to be Dear Sir / your most obedient / & most humble servt.

            Th: Jefferson


Title: From John Adams to Thomas Jefferson, 12 February 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Jefferson, Thomas

            Dear Sir
            London Feb. 12. 1788

          I have received your Letter of the 6th. and had before received the Same Information from Amsterdam.
          I know not how to express to you, the Sense I have of the disingenuity of this Plott.— The Difficulty of Selling the Obligations I believe to be mere Pretence. and indeed the whole appears to me to be a concerted Fiction, in consequence of some Contrivance or suggestion of Mr Parker, the great Speculator in American Paper, who, though I love him very well, is too ingenious for me.— I feel myself obliged to write this in Confidence to you, and to put You on your Guard against the immeasurable Avarice of Amsterdam as well as the ungovernable Rage of Speculation.— I feel no Vanity in Saying that this Project never would have been Suggested, if it had not been known, that I was recalled. if I was to continue in Europe and in office I would go to Amsterdam and open a new Loan with John Hodshon before I would Submit to it.— The Undertakers are bound in Honour, as I understood it, to furnish the Money on the new Loan. They agreed to this upon Condition that I would go to Amsterdam to sign the Obligations.
          The Truth is that Messrs Willinks and Vanstaphorst have been purchasing immense Quantities of American Paper, and they now Want to have it acknowledged and paid in Europe.— it appears to me totally impossible that You or I should ever agree to it, or approve it. and as far as I can comprehend it is equally impossible for the Board of Treasury or Congress to consent to it. You and I however cannot answer for them: but I think We cannot countenance any hopes that they will ever comply with it.— The Continental Certificates & their Interest are to be paid in America at the Treasury of the United States. if a Precedent is set of paying them in Europe, I pretend not to Sufficient foresight to predict the Consequences. They appear however to me to be horrid.— if the Interest of one Million Dollars is paid this Year in Europe, you will find the Interest of Ten Millions demanded next year.— I am very sorry to be obliged at the moment of my Retirement to give opinions which may be misrepresented and imputed to Motives that my soul dispizes: but I cannot advise you by

any means to countenance this Project: but it is my Serious Opinion that the Judgment of Congress or the Board of Treasury, ought to be waited for, At all hazards.— if the Brokers, Undertakers and Money lenders will take such Advantages of Us, it is high time to have done with them; pay what is due as fast as We can, but never contract another farthing of Debt with them.— if a little firmness is shewn in adhering to the Resolution of waiting the orders of Congress, it is my opinion, Care will be taken in Amsterdam that our Credit shall not suffer. The Interest of our Commissioners, of the Brokers, Undertakers and Money Lenders, all conspire to induce them to prevent a failure. But in my Judgment a failure had better take Place than this Project.— I shall not write with the same frankness to Willinks, but I shall give them my opinion that the Judgment of Congress must be waited for.
          My dear Friend farewell. I pity You, in your Situation; dunned and teazed as you will be, all your Philosophy will be wanting to support you.— But be not discouraged, I have been constantly vexed with such terrible Complaints and frightened with such long Faces these ten years. depend upon it, the Amsterdammers love Money too well, to execute their Threats. They expect to gain too much by American Credit to destroy it.—
          I am with / Sincere Affection and great Esteem, your / Friend & servant

            John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Cotton Tufts, 12 February 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Tufts, Cotton

            My dear Friend
            London Feb. 12. 1788

          Every Question you ask about the new Constitution Shows that you understand the subject as well as I can pretend to do, and that you are well aware of the reasonable Difficulties and objections. But is there not danger that a new Convention at this time, would

increase the Difficulties and reasonable Exceptions rather than remove any of them? a Declaration of Rights I wish to see with all my Heart: though I am sensible of the Difficulty of framing one, in which all the States can agree.— a more compleat Seperation of the Executive from the Legislative too, would be more Safe for all. The Press, Conscience & Juries I wish better Secured.— But is it not better to accept this Plan and amend it hereafter? After ten years Absence from his Country a Man should be modest, but as at present instructed I think I should vote for it, as it is, and promote a Convention after sometime, to amend it. But the Massachusetts will decide before this Letter, reaches you: and all that I can do, is to wish that you may determine wisely.— We shall Sail by the first of April and See you, I hope in May. Your Bill in favour of Mr Elworthy is accepted. My Love to all and accept the warmest Thanks for your kind Attention to the Interests of, My dear sir your affectionate Friend and obliged / humble servant

            John Adams


Title: From John Adams to John Jay, 14 February 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Jay, John

            Dear Sir
            Grosvenor Square Feb. 14. 1788

          I Yesterday received Mr Remsens Letter of the 14. of December, with the Journals and Gazettes inclosed.
          At the last Conferences at Whitehall which were last Thursday, Lord Carmarthen thought proper to express a Wish that this Country had Some Sort of Treaty of Commerce with the United States of America, that it might be no longer necessary to take new Measures from time to time, which looked hard. This observation his Lordship made alluding to Mr Grenvilles Motion in the House of Commons. for making the Regulation of the Intercourse between America and the West India Islands, perpetual. His Lordship then, immediately Said “I presume Mr Adams that the States will all immediately adopt the new Constitution. I have read it with Pleasure. it is very well drawn up.” All this Oracular Utterance, was to Signify to me what has all along been insinuated, that there is not as yet any national Government; but that as soon as there shall be one, the British

Court will vouchsafe to treat with it.— You will see, by the Morning Chronicle of the 12 of Feb. inclosed that Mr Grenville’s Speech is in the Same Strain: so that We may conclude it to be the concerted Language of the Cabinet.— it is unnecessary for me to make any Reflections upon it. The Argument that arises out of it, in favour of the new Constitution and a prompt Acceptance of it is but one among many.— France and Holland furnish as many Reasons as England. Mr Jefferson must soon follow my Example and return to America, if that Constitution is not accepted by all the States: and what will be the Consequence of the Clamours of all the officers in France, who are Creditors,; of all the Notables who may be pleased to cast Reflections,; and of all our Creditors in Holland; for Want of Payment of Interest and Principal as they become due, must be left to every American Citizen Seriously to consider.
          In preparing for my departure, I have been personally treated with the Same uniform Tenour of dry Decency and cold Civility, which appears to have been their premeditated Plan from the beginning: and A Opposition as well as Administration appear to have adopted the Same Spirit. Mr Fox and Mr Burke, Lord Cambden and the Duke of Richmond, Lord Hawkesbury and Lord North and Lord Stormont, have all behaved alike. If this Country can make Such arrangements that the King of Prussia may make a Diversion of the French Forces by Land, and the native Indians or discontented Subjects, another, of those of Spain in South America, You may easily believe that England will be eager for War. Let not our Countrymen flatter themselves that they shall be able to maintain Peace. Lord Carmarthen indeed Said to me that he did not see a possibility of a Misunderstanding in Europe, and that he even hoped that Peace would be made between Russia and the Porte. His Lordship is in profound Ignorance of it, I presume, if there is really any Probability of an Alliance of France with the Emperor or Empress. Mr Jefferson has informed you, of his Conjectures as well as his Intelligence on that Point.
          The Marquis De la Luzerne is now Ambassador at this Court from France, and has already met with Humiliations, not easily born by Ambassadors. Monsieur De Calonne, appears at the Levee and Drawing Room, and even at the Table of the Marquis of Carmarthen on the Queens Birth Day, with the French Ambassador. The Chevalier De Terna[nt] was presented by the French Ambassador, to the King and Queen, and treated with the most marked Disgust by both. These Things are hard to bear. I have had Some Conversations with this Minister, with whom I made a Voyage in 1779 from

L’Orient to Boston in the Sensible, and could wish to have resided longer with him for he will Certainly be attentive and able: But my Embarkation is fixed to the Month of March, and I hope to be in Boston in May.
          With great Esteem and Regard / I have the Honour to be, dear sir / your most obedient and most / humble servant

            John Adams


Title: To John Adams from John Jay, 14 February 1788
From: Jay, John
To: Adams, John

            Dear Sir
            New York 14th Feb. 1788

          As this Letter will go by the way of Ireland, and may be exposed to accidents in the Course of its Route, I decline entering into Particulars; but as the long Recess of Congress who are now again convened, makes it necessary that the enclosed Letters of Recall should be transmitted without Delay, I think it best to send one set by this Conveyance, & to forward Duplicates by another vessel which will sail about the last of the month for Bristol— Your Letters by the Packet are come to Hand, and shall be particularly noticed in my next which will go under cover to a Friend, with Directions to him what to do with it in Case you should have left England before its arrival— Massachusets has adopted the proposed Constitution by a Majority of 19—
          I am Dr Sir with great Truth / Your Friend & Servt

            John Jay—


Title: From John Adams to John Jay, 16 February 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Jay, John

            Dear Sir
            Grosvenor Square Feb. 16. 1788

          There is no Maxim more clearly Settled in all Courts, and in all Negotiations between Nations, than that Sovereign Should always Speak to Sovereign and Minister to Minister. I am not at all Surprised therefore, although I am much mortified at having my Memorials to their High Mightinesses and to His most Serene Highness returned to me, with the Letter inclosed from Mr Fagel. I Should have had a Letter of Recall, Signed by the President of Congress by their Order, and addressed to their High Mightinesses. There is a Similar Irregularity, in my recal from the British Court, for, although my Commission is limited to three Years, yet my Letter of Credence, is not to His Majesty, has no limits at all. if the omission of a Letter from Congress to the King, upon this occasion Should not be taken as an offence, it will not be because it is not observed, but from Motives too humiliating to Congress as well as to their Minister here to be explained.
          There is no Alternative now left for me. Home, I must go, and leave all Europe to conjecture, that I have given offence in Holland, and in England, that I have misbehaved abroad, though I was my Conduct has been approved at home. When the Public shall hear that I am gone home, without taking leave, there will be no End of Criticisms, Conjectures and Reflections.
          All that now remains for me, is humbly to request that Congress would be pleased to Send me regular Letters of Recall after my Arrival in America that I may then transmit my Memorials to Europe and take Leave in Form.
          To a Man who has taken the Utmost Pains to do his Duty and to fulfill every Obligation to the Smallest Punctilio nothing can be more disagreable, than Such disappointments, especially as in all my Letters I have So expressly and repeatedly requested, regular Letters of Recall.
          With great Respect, and Esteem / I have the Honour to be, dear Sir, your / most obedient and most humble / Servant

            John Adams.


Title: John Adams’ Address to George III, [20 February 1788]
From: Adams, John
To: George III

            Sir
            [20 February 1788]

          As the Period of my Mission to your Majesty is on the Point of expiring I have Solicited the Honour of this Audience, that I might have an opportunity of repeating in behalf of the United States of America, their Assurances of their friendly Dispositions and of their continued desire of a liberal Intercourse of Commerce and good offices, with your Majestys Subjects and States.
          In taking leave of your Majesty I beg leave to present my most humble Thanks to your Majesty for the Protection and Civilities I have received at your Majestys Court, and my best Wishes for every Blessing to your Majesty, your Majestys Royal Family, Subjects and Dominions.


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Jefferson, 20 February 1788
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Adams, John

            Dear Sir
            Paris Feb. 20. 1788

          I am in hopes daily of receiving a letter from you in answer to my last. the delay of the letters which contained the proposition to the board of treasury takes away all probability of their answering in time, and I foresee that I shall be closely pressed by circumstances on that point. I have settled your matter with de la Blancherie, at the sum you fixed. (8 Louis) he demanded 12, but without a shadow of reason I think.
          This letter will probably find you near your departure. I am in hopes it will be only a change of service, from helping us here, to

help us there. we have so few in our councils acquainted with foreign affairs, that your aid in that department, as well as others will be invaluable. the season of the year makes me fear a very disagreeable passage for mr̃s Adams & yourself. tho we have sometimes fine weather in these months. nobody will pray more sincerely than myself for your passage, that it may be short, safe and agreeable, that you may have a happy meeting with all your friends, be received by them with the gratitude you have merited at their hands, and placed in such a station as may be honourable to you & useful to them. Adieu, my dear Sir, and accept assurances of the unchangeable esteem and respect with which I am / Your friend & servant

            Th: Jefferson


Title: From John Adams to John Jay, 21 February 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Jay, John

            Dear Sir
            Grosvenor Square Feb. 21. 1788

          Yesterday I had my Audience of Leave of His Majesty. I Shall not trouble you with any Particulars, of the previous steps to obtain this Audience (which you know are always troublesome enough); nor with any detail of the Conversation, farther than the Publick is immediately interested in it. The substance of my Address to His Majesty was no more than, a Renewal of assurances in Behalf of the United States, of their friendly Dispositions, and of their continued desire to cultivate a liberal Intercourse of Commerce and good offices with his Majestys subjects and States; Thanks for the Protection and Civilities, of His Court; and good Wishes of Prosperity to His Majesty, His Royal Family. His subjects and Dominions.
          The Kings Answer to me, was in these Words “Mr Adams You may, with great Truth assure the United States that whenever they Shall fulfil the Treaty, on their Part, I, on my Part will fullfil it, in all its Particulars.” “As to yourself, I am Sure I wish you a Safe and pleasant Voyage, and much Comfort with your Family and Friends.”
          This was the answer in Ceremony. His Majesty was then pleased to ask me many Questions, about myself and My Family; how long I

had been absent from them &c which were intended I suppose to be very gracious and flattering, but are of no Consequence to the Publick, and therefore will be here omitted. It now remains to take leave of the Queen and the Princes The Cabinet Ministers and Corps Diplomatique; a Species of Slavery, more of which I believe has fallen to my share than ever happened before to a Son of Liberty. and I much fear, that the omission of a Letter of Recall, and the offence taken at it in Holland, will oblige me to go over to the Hague, to repeat the same tedious Ceremonies there. at this season of the Year, So near the Equinox, to have the Passage from Harwich to Helvoet to cross twice, is a Punishment for sins to me unknown.
          I am extreamly afflicted my dear sir at the News of your ill Health: but I hope you will be soon restored, for the Publick at this Moment has great Need of your Experience and Abilities.
          With much Affection and Esteem / your most humble and / obedient Servant


Title: To John Adams from John Bowring, 27 February 1788
From: Bowring, John
To: Adams, John

            Sir,
            Exeter 27 Feby. 1788

          Seeing in the Gazette of Saturday last that you had taken leave of his Majesty, & presuming you are soon about to return to America, I should feel myself wanting in gratitude was I not to avail myself of an opportunity before your departure of expressing the obligations I was lain under by the distinguished respect I received when you visited this part of the Country, very heartily Sir do I now return Thanks to you Mrs. Adams, & Mrs. Smith for your condescending Visit. I heartily wish you a safe pleasant & prosporous Voyage, & happy meeting of the other dear parts of your Family & Friends in America; that you may find your Country in perfect tranquility & its Liberty’s both Civil & Religious settled on an immovable Basis is my more than most hearty Wish.
          It gives me much concern to inform you that Mr. Andrew Cranch died 16 Decr last., & that I am this moment informed of the death of Mr. William Cranch at Brook near Kingsbridge.— If the great

concerns you are engaged in before you leave this Country will give you a few moments leisure to favor me with a line in reply I cannot express how much honor & pleasure it will afford to / Sir / Your most respectful & obliged humble Servant—

            John Bowring

            PS. Please to present all my Family’s most tender & affectionate Regards to all our dear American Relatives & Friends, & inform Mr. R. Cranch I have been long in expectation of hearing from him, to whom I wish every consolation he may want when he is acquainted with the awful bereavements of his poor antient Brothers.


Title: Address to Charlotte, [21-28 February 1788]
From: Adams, John
To: Charlotte, Queen of Great Britain

            Madam
            [ante 28 February 1788]

          As the Period of my Mission to His Majesty is expiring, I have requested the Honour of this Audience that I might have an oppertunity in taking my leave of your Majesty of presenting to your Majesty my most humble Thanks, for the Civilities I have received at your Majestys Court and my best Wishes for every Blessing and Felicity to your Majesty and every Branch of your Majestys Royal Family.


Title: From John Adams to the Earl of Ailesbury, 28 February 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Ailesbury, Thomas Brudenell-Bruce, 1st Earl of

            Sir
            Grosvenour Square Febry 28 1788

          It was my earnest desire to have obtaind an Audience of Leave of the Queen that I might have had an opportunity of presenting to Her Majesty before my departure for America my most Humble thanks

for the Civilities, that myself and my family have Received at her Majestys Court, and my best wishes for every Blessing and Felicity to her Majesty, and to every Branch of her Majestys Royal Family, But the indispensable Necessity I am under of making a Journey to Holland before my Embarkation for America So presses me in point of Time, that it is now become impossible to repeat my Request of an Audience
          I am extreamly Sorry for the dissarrangment of Her Majestys Health which has deprived me of the Honour I Solicited for three drawing Rooms and must now beg the Favour of Your Lordship to make my most respectfull Excuses where ever they may be Necessary.
          With very great Respect I have the Honour to be / My Lord your Lordships most obedient Humble / Servant

            John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Rush, 28 February 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Rush, Benjamin

            My dear Friend
            Lon[don] Feb. 28. 1788

          The Letter that accompanies this, is from a Character so respectable, that I beg leave to recommend it to your particular Attention.The Correspondent will be found worthy of you.— I have taken Leave, and shall embark, as soon as the Equinoxial and its roughest Blusters are past.
          The Emperors Declaration of War announces louder Storms in Europe: but I hope to escape them all in a peaceful Harbour at Braintree.
          yours affectionately

            John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Jefferson, 2 March 1788
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Adams, John

            Dear Sir
            Paris Mar. 2. 1788. Sunday

          I received this day a letter from mr̃s Adams of the 26th. ult. informing me you would set out on the 29th. for the Hague. our

affairs at Amsterdam press on my mind like a mountain. I have no information to go on but that of the Willincks & VanStaphorsts, & according to that something seems necessary to be done. I am so anxious to confer with you on this, & to see you & them together, & get some effectual arrangement made in time that I determine to meet you at the Hague. I will set out the moment some repairs are made to my carriage. it is promised me at 3. oclock tomorrow; but probably they will make it night, & that I may not set out till Tuesday morning. in that case I shall be at the Hague Friday night. in the meantime you will perhaps have made all your bows there. I am sensible how irksome this must be to you in the moment of your departure. but it is a great interest of the U.S. which is at stake and I am sure you will sacrifice to that your feelings & your interest. I hope to shake you by the hand within 24. hours after you receive this, and in the mean time am with much esteem & respect Dear Sir / Your affectionate friend & humble servt

            Th: Jefferson


Title: Memorial to the States General, [6 March 1788]
From: Adams, John
To: States General

          To their High Mightinesses, the Lords the States General of the United NetherlandsA Memorial

            High and Mighty Lords
            [6 March 1788]

          The Subscriber, Minister Plenipotentiary from the United States of America, has the honour to communicate to your High Mightinesses, a Resolution an Act of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, by which he is recalled from his Mission to your High Mightinesses & permitted to revisit his native Country.

          The Wisdom and Magnanimity, with which your High Mightinesses manifested your Friendship to the United States of America in the year, one Thousand, Seven Hundred and Eighty two, contributed to accellerate that general Peace of the World which has lasted So long: and the Candour and Goodness of your High Mightinesses, and of the whole Republick to the Subscriber, as well as to his Country, have made Impressions on his Mind, which neither Time, nor Place can ever oblitterate.
          In terminating his Residence in Europe and in taking a respectful Leave of your High Mightinesses, he begs leave to express his Thanks for all Indulgences and Attentions to himself, and his ardent Wishes for the Happiness of your High Mightinesses and your Families and his Sincere Assurances, that in whatever Country he may be, he shall never cease to pray for the Liberty the Independence and the Universal Prosperity of the whole Republick of the United Netherlands
          Done at the Hague this   Day of March A.D. 1788

            SignedJohn Adams.


Title: Memorial to William V, Prince of Orange, 7 March 1788
From: Adams, John
To: William V, Prince of Orange and Stadholder of the Netherlands

          To His Most Serene Highness, William the Fifth, Prince of Orange and Nassau Hereditary Statholder and Governor, of the United Provinces of the Low Countries.A Memorial

            [7 March 1788]

          The Subscriber, Minister Plenipotentiary from the United States of America, has the Honour to communicate to your Most Serene Highness, a Resolution of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, the Original of which he has already had the Honour of

laying before their High Mightinesses the States General by which he is recalled from his Mission to this Republick, and permitted to return to his native Country.
          As The Subscriber had the Honour to be originally accredited, by the United States of America, in Congress assembled to your Most Serene Highness, it is his Duty, as well as his Inclination, in taking a respectfull Leave of your Most Serene Highness, to express his Thanks, for all the Civilities, he has, from time to time received, at your Highness’s Court: and to present his Sincere Wishes for every Blessing and Felicity to your Most Serene Highness, Your Royal Consort, and illustrious Family.
          Done at the Hague this Seventh day of March 1788

            John Adams.


Title: From John Adams to John Jay, 26 March 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Jay, John

            Dear Sir
            London March 26. 1788

          I have only Time to introduce to you and Mrs Jay, my Daughter Smith and to recommend her to your Patronage and Mrs Jays Friendship.
          I shall embark in Six or Eight days. I am just returned from a cold Journey to the Hague and Amsterdam, where I met Mr Jefferson very unexpectedly. He has persuaded me, to open another Loan, which he will transmit to Congress. I am very anxious least it should be taken amiss by Congress. But it will be neither Profit nor Pleasure to me. The Character of the U. states demanded it.
          Europe is in an ill temper. Fear Jealousy and Hatred, prevail to a great degree: and War tho it may be delayed a Year, or Two cannot be far off. in Holland all is quiet: but a deep Resentment and discontent rankles in the Minds of many. The first steps taken by Monsr de st Priest after his arrival at the Hague, will afford a Clue to unravel the Politicks of the French Cabinet and of all Europe.— England is not complaisant to Prussia, more than to France. and the stocks labour to a degree that shows all is not well in the apprehensions of the Speculators.
          My Reception in Holland was very flattering: but I must delay Sending Copies of my Memorial and the answer of their High Mightinesses, till my Arrival in America. a Letter from the Prince of orange to Congress I shall send by Coll smith.
          I am my dear sir with every sentiment / of Esteem, your Frd & sert

            John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Fitch, 29 March 1788
From: Fitch, Samuel
To: Adams, John

            Putman Street No. 21. Putman Sqare. March. 29th. 1788

          Mr Fitch presents his Compliments to Mr Adams. & begs Leave to Remind him That the latter End of the Year 1774 & very early in 1775 Mr. Adams borrowed of him the first Volumes of the Year Books. The Laws of Connecticut. and New Jersey. (with the Charters of each prefixed) & Smiths Historory of New York: as Mr Adams hath, doubtless, these Books. Mr Fitch would be much Obliged to him for the Return of them, by Callahan upon his next return to London, (if he hath them not here): as the want of the Year Books in particular breaks his Sett— Mr Fitch wishes Mr Adams & Family A prosperous Voyage. & Safe Arrival in America


Title: From John Adams to the Marquis of Carmarthen, 30 March 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Carmarthen, the Marquis of

            My Lord
            Bath Hotel March 30. 1788

          The Letter of Recall, herewith enclosed never reached my hand till this Moment when I was ready to Step into the Carriage for Portsmouth where I am to embark. its omission in Season, was wholly owing to the Sickness of Mr Jay, our Secretary of State for foreign affairs.
          With great / Truth and Respect I have the Honour / to be, my Lord, your Lordships / most obedient and most humble / servant

            John Adams

          ENCLOSURE

            Copy
            Great and Good Friend
            [12 February 1788]

          As the Time We had limited for the Duration of Mr Adams’s Residence in Quality of our Minister Plenipotentiary near your Majesty, will Shortly expire, We have directed him, then to take Leave of your Majesty and to assure you of our Friendship and Sincere Desire to promote the most perfect Harmony and Confidence between the two Nations. Our Opinion of Mr Adams persuades Us that he will do this in the manner most expressive of these Sentiments, and of the Respect and Sincerity with they are offered. We pray God to keep your Majesty under his holy Protection.
          Written at the City of New York the 12th Day of February in the Year of our Lord 1788, by your Majestys good Friends the United States of America in Congress Assembled

            SignedCyrus Griffin PresidentJohn Jay


Title: To John Adams from Richard Price, 4 April 1788
From: Price, Richard
To: Adams, John

              My dear Friend
              Hackney Ap: 4th: 1788

            I have just received the favour of your letter, and feel an impatience to thank you for it. Your recommendation of Mr Neckar’s book raises my expectations from it, and I will take the first opportunity to purchase it, and to endeavour to perswade Some of the booksellers to get it translated.
            Will you be so good as to inform Mr Bowdoin that he was balloted for last night at the Royal Society and chosen a member. There were 27 candidates on the foreign list whose recommendations had been hanging up all the winter in the room where the Royal Society holds its meetings; but near half of them were negatived.
            I had Signed Mr Bowdoin’s recommendation, and I am glad I have the pleasure of now reckoning him one of our number. Deliver my respectful complimts to him. I fear this letter will not reach Portsmouth before you have Sailed, and therefore I will only add that my best wishes attend you and Mrs Adams, and that I Shall always reflect with gratitude on the friendship with which you and her have honoured me. You are going to the new World. I remain in the old world. May Heaven unite us again in that world beyond the grave where all the virtuous are to meet. I am, Dear Sir, / affectionately yours

              Richd: Price

            I have at last received from Dilly your 3d Volume, and thank you heartily for it. I have begun reading your remarks on Nedham, and expect to be instructed by it. Your country is certainly much indebted to you for the Service you do them by this publication.


Title: From John Adams to Thomas Brand-Hollis, 5 April 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Brand-Hollis, Thomas

            My Dear Sir,
            Fountain Inn, Portsmouth, April 5, 1788.

          If ever there was any philosophic solitude, your two friends have found it in this place, where we have been wind bound, a whole week, without a creature to speak to. Our whole business, pleasure and amusement has been reading Necker’s Religious opinions, Hayley’s Old Maids, and Cumberland’s fourth Observer. Our whole stock is now exhausted, and if the ship should not arrive with a fresh supply of books, we shall be obliged to write romances to preserve us from melancholy.
          I know not whether atheism has made much progress in England: and perhaps it would do more hurt than good to publish any thing upon the subject, otherwise Necker’s book appears to me to deserve the best translation and edition that can be made of it. Mr. Mortimer perhaps might find his account in it. Necker’s subject is so much more interesting to human nature, that I am almost disgusted with my own. Yet my countrymen have so much more need of arguments against errors in government, than in religion, that I am again comforted and encouraged. At this moment there is a greater fermentation throughout all Europe upon the subject of government, than was perhaps ever known, at any former period. France, Holland, and Flanders are alive to it. Is government a science or not? Are there any principles on which it is founded? What are its ends? If indeed there is no rule; no standard; all must be accident and chance. If there is a standard, what is it?— It is easier to make a people discontented with a bad government, than to teach them how to establish and maintain a good one. Liberty can never be created and preserved without a people: and by a people, I mean a common people, in contradistinction from the gentlemen; and a people can never be created and preserved without an executive authority in one hand, separated entirely from the body of the gentlemen. The two ladies Aristocratia and Democratia will eternally pull caps, till one or other is mistress. If the first is the conqueress she never fails to depress and debase her rival into the most deplorable servitude. If the last conquers, she eternally surrenders herself into the arms of a ravisher. Kings, therefore, are the natural allies of the common people, and the prejudices against them are by no means favourable to liberty. Kings and the common people have both a common enemy in the gentlemen, and they must unite in some degree or other against

them, or both will be destroyed; the one dethroned and the other enslaved. The common people too are unable to defend themselves against their own ally, the king, without another ally in the gentlemen. It is, therefore, indispensably necessary, that the gentlemen in a body, or by representatives, should be an independent and essential branch of the constitution. By a king, I mean a single person possessed of the whole executive power. You have often said to me, that it is difficult to preserve the balance. This is true. It is difficult to preserve liberty. But there can be no liberty without some balance; and it is certainly easier to preserve a balance of three branches than of two.— If the people cannot preserve a balance of three branches, how is it possible for them to preserve one of two only? If the people of England find it difficult to preserve their balance at present, how would they do, if they had the election of a king, and an house of lords to make, once a year, or once in seven years, as well as of an house of commons? It seems evident at first blush, that periodical elections of the king and peers in England, in addition to the commons, would produce agitations that must destroy all order and safety as well as liberty. The gentlemen too, can never defend themselves against a brave and united common people, but by an alliance with a king; nor against a king, without an alliance with the common people. It is the insatiability of human passions, that is the foundation of all government. Men are not only ambitious, but their ambition is unbounded: they are not only avaricious, but their avarice is insatiable. The desires of kings, gentlemen and common people,—all increase, instead of being satisfied by indulgence. This fact being allowed, it will follow that it is necessary to place checks upon them all.— Pray write me upon these subjects when I arrive in America.
          I am, with sincere esteem, my dear sir, yours

            John Adams.


Title: From John Adams to Thomas Brand-Hollis, 9 April 1788
From: Adams, John
To: Brand-Hollis, Thomas

              Fountain Inn, Cowes, Isle of Wight, April 9, 1788.
              Dear Sir,

            I have, to day, received your kind letter of the 7th and the valuable books that accompanied it. Mariana, Corio, and Ramsay, for which I most heartily thank you.
            I wish I could write romances. True histories of my wanderings and waitings for ships and winds at Ferrol and Corunna in Spain; at Nantes, Lorient and Brest in France; at Helvoet, the island of Goree, and Over Flackee in Holland; and at Harwich, Portsmouth and the isle of Wight in England, would make very entertaining romances in the hands of a good writer.
            It is very true, as you say, that “royal despots endeavor to prevent the science of government from being studied.” But it is equally true that aristocratical despots, and democratical despots too, endeavor to suppress the study, and with equal success. The aristocracies in Holland, Poland, Venice, Bern, &c. are as inexorable to the freedom of inquiry in religion, but especially in politics; as the monarchies of France, Spain, Prussia, or Russia. It is in mixed governments only that political toleration exists, and in Needham’s “Excellencie of a free state,” or right constitution, the majority would be equally intolerant. Every unbalanced power is intolerant.
            I admire your magnificent idea of an “imperial republic:” but would not republican jealousy startle at this title, even more than that of a “regal republic?”
            I mentioned to you that I found, in your favorite writer Mr. Hutcheson, Zeno named as a friend to the balance. I have since received further information from Diogenes Laertius, lib. 7. cap. 1. n. 66.— If you find any thing more of the sentiments of Zeno, upon this subject, let me pray you to note it.
            Cumberland, in his Observer, mentions Heniochus, an Athenian comedian, as enumerating several “cities fallen into egregious folly and declension, from having delivered themselves over to be governed at the discretion of two certain female personages, whom I shall name to you:—the one Democracy; Aristocracy the other. From this fatal moment universal anarchy and misrule inevitably fall upon those cities, and they are lost!” I wish to know his authority for this quotation, and to know the words of the original. Perhaps it is found in Ælian or Athenæus. I wish to collect every word from antiquity,

in favor of an equal mixture of monarchy, aristocracy and democracy. It is an honor to the idea, that Zeno approved it; for he was, I think, one of the wisest and profoundest of the philosophers. The loss of his book “De Lege,” is a great misfortune to me; I have often met with a quotation from some of the Greek commentators, which speaks of two quarrelsome women, Aristocratia and Democratia, but never knew before that it was taken from Heniochus.
            When will these lazy winds arise, and relieve you for a time from the trouble given you by your affectionate and obliged

              John Adams.

            Mrs. A. and I have been to visit Carisbroke castle, once the prison of the booby Charles. At what moment did Cromwell become ambitious? is a question I have heard asked in England. I answer, before he was born. He was ambitious every moment of his life. He was a canting dog. I hate him for his hypocrisy: but I think he had more sense than his friends. He saw the necessity of three branches, as I suspect. If he did, he was perfectly right in wishing to be a king. I don’t agree with those who impute to him the whole blame of an unconditional restoration. They were the most responsible for it, who obstinately insisted on the abolition of monarchy. If they would have concurred in a rational reform of the constitution, Cromwell would have joined them.


Title: To John Adams from John Hancock, 7 May 1788
From: Hancock, John
To: Adams, John

            Sir
            Boston 7th May 1788

          I Lodge this Letter with the Pilot at the Light House to deliver you, which will inform you that I have given him directions to hoist a Signal which will be known at the Castle, from whence I am to Receive Notice of your Arrival, & where I have Lodged orders to pay you every mark of distinction in my power when you pass the Fort— My Coach shall be at the end of the Long Wharff for the Reception of your self & Family, & give me leave to Say that I wish my orders to my Servants may not be countermanded, which will be to conduct you, Lady & Family to my House, where I wish you to tarry till you have fixed upon your place of abode; I assure you & your Lady you will meet a very unceremonious & sincere reception
          My best wishes attend you for every / Good, & I am with sentiments of respect, / Sir / Your most obedt hume set

            John Hancock


Title: To John Adams from John Brown Cutting, 17 May 1788
From: Cutting, John Brown
To: Adams, John

            Dear Sir,
            London 17th May. 1788

          This moment I have been notified of the first opportunity I have known since your departure of writing to Boston. Altho it be past eleven at night I have dispatch’d a servant to Mr Copley for such letters as he may have had deposited for you in George Street during the last six weeks:—to which when I have superadded a few recent newspapers and a very few words—I must close my parcel.
          In one of the papers you will find what is here considered as a declaration of war by the Emperor of Morocco against the english— who affect to treat it lightly—and try to laugh at the rugged phraseology of an uncivil barbarian—while the merchants make wry faces and pay double insurance on all their mediterranean commerce.
          Nothing decisive has transpired on the occasion from government. Gen Elliot (now Lord St. hf–d) however is ordered to Gibralter in September. When those piratical states of Africa attacked the commerce of our country I well remember this nation endured the event with great resignation and serenity—chearfully pocketing our extra insurance thereupon. Now their own turn is come—I do not feel more miserable than I ought to do on such an occasion.
          Since you embarked the minister has open’d a plausible budget. He states the national revenues as quite equal to the national expenditure (—the million for the sinking fund inclusive.) The annual amount of each being for the last year somewhat less than sixteen millions. He proposes no new taxes; but to improve the old. He says the East India Company owe government five hundred thousand pounds—which they must pay. He boasts the immense increase of the british fisheries—which as to quantity of tonnage—fish—and people therein employed have doubled in three years. He intends to improve the revenue on tobacco; and expects a miraculous crop of sugar from the Islands. He promises the Loyalists more than thirteen hundred thousand pounds additional to what they have receiv’d as a full compensation for all demands. It is to be paid by instalments within the space of seven years. And to be provided for by an

annual lottery—to begin in 1789. Galloway murmurs; but most or ’em acquiesce.
          Mr Sheridan says the Ministers statement is a mere shift of finance. That there is a real annual deficiency of more than seven hundred thousand pounds—which cannot be covered without new taxes.
          Mr Grenville the other day when the southern whale fishery bill was committed moved a clause for admitting whale oyl of the United foreign States in vessels navigated by the citizens thereof into great Britain under certain conditions. What these conditions are you shall know as soon as the bill passes the Lords. I understand the measure is to meet the french edict for facilitating the admission of our oyl into that kingdom—so as still to insure the flow of it hither. The indefatigable Lord Hawksbury who surveys the trade of every nation with the eye of an eagle—has lately called upon the London Merchants for an authentic account of the port duties and every kind of impost upon british merchandize & ships in each of the United States; intending I imagine in case the general government now in agitation for America shou’d fail—to establish retaliating duties calculated to meet those established in the thirteen states respectively. I find his private secretary is a refugee—a scotchman—& our foe.
          Before this can reach Boston you will have heard of the enormous bankruptcies which have lately caused such commotion not only in the metropolis but nearly throughout the kingdom. The failure of Fordyce in 1772 was a light business comparatively speaking. The engagements of the single House of Livesey and Co—whose paper circulated throughout the nation—are said to be for no less a sum than fifteen hundred thousand pounds—not one half of which can ever be paid. The house of Potter and Lewis stopped payment on the same day for more than three hundred thousand. One of this last house was it is said committed to Newgate last week on a charge of forgery. Both these houses have been playing a deep and dangerous game in the american market. It seems their intent was to monopolize the cotton and linnen branches entirely With this view they have been pouring immense quantities of goods into every part of the United States for years past and it appears that their orders have been to sell almost at any rate. In various instances accordingly invoices have been disposed of thirty per cent below prime cost—and thus has such incredible quantities of our specie been absorp’d and remitted hither; while our native and fair importers have found it impossible to buy abroad or sell at home without ruin. In fine sir such

a scene of wild speculation and extravagant and pernicious management both in England and elswhere is now disclosed as astonishes every body. Nor do the most sagacious people here pretend to predict the end of it. Every body who has been concerned in circulating bills through all England is more or less affected—and new failures occur every hour. It is computed that at least three millions in private paper—which was unquestionable property to all mercantile intents and purposes one fortnight ago—is now annihilated. Upwards of forty thousand manufacturers in the County of Lancashire are destitute of employment—and ripe for mischief. Indeed they have much reason to lament their credulity. Many of them having put their whole earnings for years—and others their patrimony—in the hands of bankers who are now failing daily.
          Both the ministers and the Bank of England have been applied to for assistance. But neither the one nor the other have, can or dare grant it. The answer is that it is necessary the thing shou’d happen to restore trade to its proper channel.
          When the affair first commenced the whole mischief was attributed to the perfidy of the merchants and people of america. But since the nature of the business has been developed not a whisper of the kind vibrates. On the contrary the calumnies against the United States and her mercantile citizens begin to attenuate and expire. People of candour and discernment begin to own that one of the causes of tardy payments from american debtors has been the monstrous conduct of a few british merchants themselves.
          Mr Hollis informs me that he has found the history of a republic which you have not noticed in your renowned republican volumes; he means to send it You as a delicious morsel of antiquity. He and the venerable Dr Price and other of those who greatly admire and esteem both you and Mrs Adams—are very anxious to learn that You are in Boston—but none more so than her & your / Most respectful obliged friend / and very obedient servant

            J. B. Cutting


Title: To John Adams from the Marquis de Lafayette, 25 May 1788
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Adams, John

            My dear Sir
            Paris May the 25th [1788]

          I Will not Enter on a detail of European Affairs, Still less So of our trouble in france, as M. Barret will tell You What Has Happened Since You Embarked— Governement Have Made a Great Effort— I think it will Be like Turnus’s Big Stone in the Æneïd— for the present the Parliaments are Put to the Rout, But Rallying Again under Cover of public Opinion, which you know Has a Great force in this Country— M. jefferson Has Sent all publications which no doubt will Be Printed
          Give me leave to introduce to You M. de warville a Man of letters and M. de [Verriere] an officer who are travelling through the United states, and whom I Recommend to You
          I give you joy, My dear Sir, on the Happiness you Have to live Again on the land of liberty, in the Good town of Boston, and Among our friends to whom I Beg You to present My Best Compliments— Md̃e de lafayette joins in Affectionate Compliments to You and mr̃s Adams and the Rest of the family— Remember me Most Affectionately to M. Sam. Adams and family— with Great Regard and Attachement I Have the Honour to Be / My dear Sir / Your obedient humble / Servant

            lafayette


Title: To John Adams from the Massachusetts General Court, 18 June 1788
From: Massachusetts Court
To: Adams, John

              Commonwealth of MassachusettsIn Senate June 18th 1788—

            Ordered that Caleb Strong, Joseph Bradley Varnum, and Thomas Dawes esqrs, with such as the honorable House may join be a committee, to present to the honorable John Adams esqr the following address—
            sent down for concurrence

              Saml: Phillips junr: Presidt:

              In the House of Representatives June 18th 1788—

            Read & concurred & Mr Russell, of Boston, Mr Jones, Mr Heath, & Mr Ames are joined

              Theodore Sedgwick, Sp’kr.

            The return of yourself and family to the United States, and to this your native State in particular, is gratifying to all who recollect, your many successfull labours in the service of your country.
            To the patriot citizen of a free Commonwealth, the affection of an enlightened people will appear the most illustrious reward.
            The Legislature of Massachusetts just to the merit of all her citizens, & particularly mindful of yours, participate in the public

satisfaction which is manifest on your arrival: and in these congratulations the Legislature are confident that they express the sentiments of the people.—


Title: To John Adams from John Thaxter Jr., 18 June 1788
From: Thaxter, John Jr.
To: Adams, John

            Sir,
            Ipswich 18th. June 1788.

          If amidst the vast Concourse of Friends who have eagerly pressed to welcome your safe Arrival to your native Country, you have not found your former Pupil and Secretary personally testifying his pleasing Sensations upon this happy Event, you will do him the Justice to

believe that no one has experienced a more heart-felt Satisfaction than himself upon this Occasion.
          I feel myself very unhappy that I cannot, as soon as my own Inclination would prompt me, give you and Mrs. Adams a personal Testimony of the Sincerity of my Congratulations upon your safe Arrival. But you will accept upon Paper what I cannot offer in person. I cannot refrain from expressing my particular Satisfaction, that the Seventeenth of June has been rendered still more memorable by your honorable Reception in the Metropolis of Massachusetts on the same day, by such public and private demonstrations of Joy as are characteristic of a People not inattentive to Merit and eminent Services rendered them— My own sensations have been in Unison with my Countrymen upon this pleasing Event.
          The Joy the Supreme Court, which I am now attending, and my Brethren have expressed, has been honorable to you and particularly pleasing to me.
          I will not add further, Sir, than to assure you, I wait with extreme Impatience for the Moment, when I can personally express to you and Mrs. Adams my Joy upon your happy Return, and the great Respect with which I have the honor to be, / Sir, / your & her most obedient / and very humble Servant

            J Thaxter


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Rush, 2 July 1788
From: Rush, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

            Dear Sir,
            Philadelphia July 2nd: 1788.

          Permit an old friend to congratulate you upon your safe arrival in your native country. I rejoiced in reading, of the respectful manner in which you were received by your fellow Citizens. you serve a grateful & enlightned people. may you long continue to enjoy their Confidence, & may they long—very long continue to enjoy the benefits of your patriotism & knowledge.—
          I have to thank you for many short letters during your Absence from America, but I owe more than I can express to you, for your excellent Volumes upon goverment. They shall be the Alcoran of my boys upon the great Subject of political happiness.— You have laid

the world & posterity under great Obligations by your researches. I am not more satisfied of the truth of the first axioms any one proposition in Euclid than I am of the truth of your leading propositions in goverment.— Go on my dear friend in removing the rubbish of ignorance & prejudice from the Minds of your fellow Citizens. We live in an important Æra, and in a new Country. Much good may be done by individuals, & that too in a short time.
          America has ever appeared to me to be the theatre in which human nature will receive its greatest civil & literary—and religious honors.— Now is the time to sow the Seeds of each of them. Providence seems to have intended you to have a material hand in this business. your labors for your country are only beginning. I hope—I expect—nay more—I am satisfied I shall see you in One of the first posts of the new goverment.— The Citizens of Pennsylvania will joyfully concur in this measure, especially if the southern & Eastern states should gratify them by fixing the Seat of Congress on the Delaware. This must be the compensation for their placing a citizen of Virginia in the Presidents Chair, and a citizen of New England in the Chair of the Senate.
          The new goverment will demolish our Balloon Constitution. If it had no Other merit, this would be eno’ with me.— But it has a thousand other things to recommend it. It makes us a Nation. It rescues us from Anarchy—& Slavery.— It revives Agriculture & commerce. It checks moral & political iniquity. In a word, it makes a man both willing to live, & to die.— To live, because it opens to him fair prospects of great public & private happiness. To die, because it ensures peace—[and] order— Safety—& prosperity to his children.
          Your letter, enclosing one from the German Chaplain of the king of Britain came safe to hand. The packet of this day will carry and Answer to Mr Milhoff enclosing Vouchers of the life &c of the german lady After whom he enquires.—
          My dear Mrs Rush joins me in most [res]pectful Compliments & congratulations to Mrs Adams.— We count five living, out of eight Children. Our Eldest boy will act the part of a young Midshipman on board the Ship Union which is to make a distinguished part of our procession in honor of the establishment of the new goverment.
          With every possible mark of respect and esteem, I am dear Sir your / Affectionate Old friend / & humble Servant

            Benjn Rush.


Title: To John Adams from John Jay, 4 July 1788
From: Jay, John
To: Adams, John

            Poughkeepsie 4 July 1788

          I congratulate you my dear Sir! most cordially on your Return to your native Country, and am greatly pleased with the Reception you have met with— You deserve well of your country, and I am happy to find that the acknowledgment of your Services is not left solely to Posterity.
          our convention is still sitting. The opposers of the Constitution have proposed many amendments. As yet we proceed with much Temper and moderation— I am not without Hopes of an Accommodation, altho’ my Expectations of it are not sanguine.
          Be pleased to present my Compliments & congratulations to Mrs. Adams, and believe me to be with sincere Esteem and Regard / Dr. Sir / your affecte. Friend & Servt

            John Jay—