Title: From John Quincy Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 20 September 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

My dear Mother.
Ealing 20. September 1816.

My wife’s brother J. B. Johnson has written from New Orleans, to his sister and me, requesting us to send him our Portraits, and we are accordingly sitting for them to a young American named Locke, who is working hard to make a reputation as a Painter.—This is the second time that according to a melancholy yoke of poor Sheridan’s, I have undergone the operation of sitting for my Picture, within these two years. The first was at Ghent, where the President of the Academy of fine Arts of that place, Mr Van Huffel, prevailed upon me to allow him to paint me, when I fancied it was much against my will; and so it is now—But these are cases in which one yields compliance as the least of two evils—Be that as it may, I went yesterday to town, to sit, and upon alighting at my Office, N. 13 Craven Street, I found the Cards of Mr S. C. Thatcher, and Mr. A. Bigelow, with a whole budget of Letters, from the fire-side (in July and August) at Quincy, for two of which, dated 18. July and 7. August, I am indebted to you, my ever dear and honoured mother—I could not call upon Messrs Thatcher and Bigelow yesterday, but I hope we shall see them here.
I have long been of opinion that there were too many sympathies of various kinds between New and Old England; but the sympathy of chilling frigidity of a cold ungenial, unprolific, and churlish summer must now be  added to the ungracious list. We have had lately a few barely comfortable days, but not one Evening and scarcely a day in 1816, when a fire would have been superfluous—In one respect there has been a difference—for while you complain of dry weather, I have been listening every Sunday untill the last, for more than two months, to a prayer that we might be relieved from the plague of Waters. Last Sunday it was changed to a thanksgiving for fair weather—but the cold still continues—There were several sharp frosts in July and August, and the Newspapers are filled with accounts of Snow in Harvest, and of ice an inch thick in dog-days within a hundred miles of London. What agency the spots upon the Sun have had in all this, is more than I, or perhaps any body else is astronomer enough to know—In Europe, as you must have heard, the Spots on the Sun, portended the end of the world until the 18th. of July; and since then, there has scarcely been seen enough of the Sun to know whether it was spotted or not.—It is pretty certain however that the harvests have been much affected by the weather in a great part of Europe; though not so much as by your account they have been with you. The oddity of the thing here is, that it is a rancorous party question between the Jacobins and the legitimates, who pledge their words and their honour, on one side that there will be a great failure in the harvest, and on the other that there will be no failure at all.
You mention some of our forefathers who figure in Mather’s Magnalia—I begin to feel something of the genealogical maggot myself, and want to know something more about my ancestors than I have ever yet discovered. I remember the round robin of that great Genius Cousin Elijah Adams Esquire of Medfield, and hope you have it in safe keeping. Perhaps that and Williard’s Body of Divinity, contain as much of the Adams Annals before my father, as are to be gleaned after the Harvest old father Time has reaped of them—It traces them back to England; which for us is going back to Noah’s flood—But of the female branches of the ascending line, I should be glad to know more—For example, who were my father’s grandmothers, paternal and maternal—I suppose my father knows, but if I ever heard, I do not remember—Again who was your grandmother Smith, and who was the wife of the said Thomas Shephard, whose daughter was your Grandfather’s mother—When you have leisure, I wish you would write me all the family history that you can remember.
The rage of royal matrimony seems to be spreading beyond its natural bounds. According to the rumours in circulation here, it has even reached His Royal Highness the Prince Regent of England. Although I have satisfied myself that very little of what is said about him ought to be believed, yet his design of obtaining if he can a divorce from his present wife has become so notorious that it will no longer admit of a doubt. The Princess of Wales has been living these two years abroad, with his consent, and scandal which had always been nibbling at her reputation, has been gorging upon it, since she left England, like an Alderman upon high venison—All the English Ladies who accompanied her when she first went, have left her, and returned to England, and she is now travelling about, living publicly with an Italian adventurer, in such utter contempt of all decorum, that some of the Captains of English Men of War have refused to admit the paramour with her at their tables. These are the Stories about her now in circulation; and it is further said that the Regent has now in his possession positive proof against her, such as by the ecclesiastical Laws of England will entitle him to a divorce. When he first proposed it to his Ministers, the Chancellor and the Earl of Liverpool are said to have been so averse to the measure as to tender the resignation of their Offices; but since the return of Mr Canning, and his reinstallation into the Ministry he has become the manager of the Transaction, and there is now little question that it will be brought before Parliament at their next Session—The public take very little interest in the Princess of Wales, herself, the appearances are so much against her, that it is universally taken for granted, the proofs in the Regent’s possession will be ample to warrant a divorce, but the multitude enquire why he wants it, and the Attorney’s Clerks ask how he is to obtain it? As if a husband was bound to find a justification of his wife’s frailties in the supposed consciousness of his own; or as if the Parliaments of George the third had ever shewn themselves less omnipotent, or less complaisant to the personal wishes of the Sovereign, than the Parliaments of Henry the Eighth. Opposition to the measure there will undoubtedly be, and if Ministers should find their power in Parliament staggering upon other and national objects (which is not probable) they may take this opportunity to go out at a good door, as Pitt when he got frightened in 1801. went out upon the Catholic question—That the Regent wishes a divorce for the sake of a second marriage there is nothing as yet but conjecture, and the fears of the Princess Charlotte’s partizans to indicate—The Princess Charlotte had a show of popularity at the time of her marriage, but she has few if any friends, and after more than four Months of Marriage, it is a question as unsettled as that about the harvest whether she is in the way of increasing the family or not. Those who assume as a fact that the Regent is bent upon a second Marriage, suppose that he looks to the Princess Sophia of Gloucester who is in her forty-fourth year, but much the handsomest of all the females of the Royal Family.
The bustling Season of London, the Levees, Drawing-Rooms, Dinners, Parties, Balls, &c. are over for this year—The fashionable world we all give to bustle in the Country or at the watering places, and since the close of the last month we have been altogether quiet. I wish it were possible we could expect to remain so, through the next Winter—“We found so much in consequence residing so far distant from London, while we had such frequent and indispensable calls there that we determined perhaps inconsiderately  town for the coming Winter—We have not yet however found a house to suit us  and it is scarcely possible that at double the cost we should find one in London, half so agreeable or comfortable for a residence as this—My wife’s health for the last six weeks has been affected by a troublesome cough and pain in the side; and George frequently gives us great uneasiness. His growth continues as rapid as ever, and it is attended with great debility and with a continual recurrence of complaints which alarm us—The other two boys enjoy much better health.
I am happy more than I can express to learn that yours has been so much restored, and that my father’s is so generally good—What with your Independence day, your Neponset Bridge Hotel, and your party’s at Mr Quincy’s, Mr Marston’s and my brother’s; you have had as gay a Summer of it as we have; and I hope without any occasion for such a remark as was made me by one of the guests at the Mansion House dinner to the Duke of Wellington—“It is very well for us to be here, dining upon Turtle and Venison, but the Country is ruined!” Happier, be the lot of our’s!
I remain with ever faithful affection your’s

A.


Title: From John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 23 September 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

John Quincy Adams.
Quincy Septr. 23rd: 1816

I pray you to send me a Book whose Title is ΑΙΡΕΣΕΩΝ ΑΝΑΣΤΑΣΙΣ:
A New Way of deciding Old Controversies By Basanistes. Third Edition enlarged
Ridentem dicere verum quid vetat Hor. London Printed for J. Johnson & Co. St. Pauls Church Yard. 1815.
If there has been any Subsequent Edition Send me that. But above all let me intreat you to read it. If you can inform me Who wrote it, or is Suspected to have written it you will oblige me.
I have long desired to write you Seriously my Sense of your Situation: but conscious of my Incapacity to judge, I have hitherto postponed the Subject. But of one thing, if I am not absolutely Sure, I have a Strong Impression; and that is that you will be wrong to remain much longer in Europe; Unless you mean to remain therefore Life, or return to America, renounce All Publick Business forever, and retire to “prune the roughened Plumes of Contemplation.”
I can not bear the Thought that your Sons Should be educated in a foreign Country.
I believe you. You could write a Volume, on each of my Letters and I could write an hundred volumes in answer to them. Before you commence to be the Champion of Orthodoxy, I advise You to read Bryants Analysis or new System of Ancient Mythology; the Shasta of Indostan, the Vendavista of Persia, the Universal History of Voltaire, and The Religion Universelle of Dupuis, and the Monde primatif of Count de Gelbelin. Tell me not that these were Atheists or Deists. This is no Refutation. Where and What is the Truth? Surely it exists; and as Surely, it may be found. Let Spiritualists and Materialists, dispute, till they tell Us, What is Spirit? And what is Matter? When they clearly define these two Substances, We The People, the Readers, will Soon arbitrate between them. And I believe We Shall Say Keep the Commandments and the sermon on the Mount.
I wish they would exort their Genius, their Analysis their Talents at Investigation, upon The Words “Machiavelism and Jesuitism. It Seems to me, I could write a pretty Volume upon those two technical Terms. My dear Sir.Oct. 3. 1816You may well think Some of my Letter to you abrupt, Severe, or enigmatical. But I assure you, your Letter of August the first is a Model of Morals, Politicks and Physlosophy. One hundred Years hence, your Letters and Writings will be Sought, with infinitely more Avidity, than those of Mary Queen of Scotts, or The Ministers of Queen Elizabeth.
Why are all your Letters for thirty Years, public and private hidden from the World. I conjecture and I weep.
A.


Title: To John Adams from Ward Nicholas Boylston, 27 September 1816
From: Boylston, Ward Nicholas
To: Adams, John

					My Dear Cousin and Friend
					Jamaica plain Roxbury 27th Sepr. 1816

				Your Kind Letter of the 24th Instant did not reach my hand untill yesterdayThough I knew you had a Thousand Talents, I never before disscovered you possessed that of  rallery; which however late is of great advantage to me, as daily experience verifies the justice of your closeing observations and produced  all the effect you intended, for neither you, or possterity, should hear more from me about the establishment of a Gallery of Pictures—In return for your kind design of amuseing me in my retirement at PrincetonI inclose a small Pamphlet which may vary your readings, as a Unique Composition of the Person you have alluded to.—with my view of the present state of the controversy with the Selectmen of Boston—this I was compel’d to publish as a refutation of a Charge of evasion & delayThe Contrary is now better understood and the objects of the Testator, (even if his  vissionary property had been realized,) is neither wish’d or needed—I am tired indeed with incessant and increasing expence; and attendance on Courts of Law; and am now before Auditors in preparation for hearing before the next Supreme Judiciary at Dedham, but as soon as I am refer’d, (as I expect to be) to the next Term—I will take the next day to see you & Mrs Adams to whom I beg you will present my affectionate Regards—In the Interim, believe me / my Dear Cousin / truely yours—

					Ward Nichs Boylston


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to John Quincy Adams, 30 September 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, John Quincy

					my dear Son
					Quincy Sepbr 30th 1816

				Since my Letter to you of the 23 of August I have only written one Letter! it was to Abbe Shaw congratulating her upon her marriage, which took place upon the 18th of this month, to which I was invited, but many Circumstances prevented my attendance. She is gone with her Husband to reside in Salem. She has the prospect of being happily married. She is a good and amiable girl, possessing many of the virtues which adorned and dignified the Life and Character of her excellent Mother.I have been as much occupied in my Family circle, as you have been, in your Diplomatic Ceremonies mr & mrs de wint with their little girl, and Family have been this month upon a visit to us. a constant circle of visitors, of whom we have an abundant Share, has so occupied my Time, that I have not found any for my pen. you will perceive that my Health is better this Summer than usual. the cold weather has been favorable to my constitution as well as to the Small Grains, which experience has shown, do not require Hot Suns to bring to maturity.—I have to acknowledge your Letter of July 23d No 91. there has been much speculation here respecting the spots in the Sun, which some have immagined occasioned the uncommon cold weather Superstition I do beleive inherent in the Human Character, and there is not any person wholly free from it, in Some Shape or other. Tomorrow we are to have a great Review in this Town. your Father is invited, and is going to attend, and the rest of the Family. the Govenour Reviews. his Element is that of a military officer. He is much beloved. his manners are very pleasing, and no Spirit of party, enters into his Character. it is dormant in all companies at present.—Main will not get set off this year. mr Quincy has all along been opposed to it, and gave his solitary vote against it in Senate; I respect his Independence in this instance—I Love the man, altho I have excerated his politicks—he is a good Neighbour a kind Friend a benevolent, Character Man, and an excellent private Character—Since I began writing this Letter your Brother has returnd from Boston, and brought your Letter to your Father of August 1st and one from mrs Adams to her Sister, one from John to me.I was highly gratified at the notice you have taken of the Toast, which has Blighted the fame, in my estimation of one of our distinguished Naval heroes. that cannot be politically right which is morally wrong, and the poor attempt to justify it, has only given a wider circulation to the bad principle which it containd. I have had more than one altercation upon the Subject. my hands are now strenghtend and I shall combat with more strength ardour—The Letter you mention as having written to mr dexter; was received by mrs dexter, and kindly spoken of by her, on my first visit to her. She lent me the Letter, said she had communicated it to Judge Storer, who was highly delighted with it.—she and her two Daughters after ward, made me a visit, accompanied by Judge Storer, the only time she has been out of Town, Since the death of mr Dexter for whom, she is a Sincere mourner.October 1st.I have just returnd from the Review with which I have been much pleased.I had the horses taken from the Carriage, and sit in it, to see the Evolutions of the Troops, and while your Father went to visit the Govenour & Commanding officer, Commodore Bainbridge thought I was not conveniently placed, and proposed our being removed, while I was sending the footman to call for the horses to remove the Carriage—I found myself drawn by Hands—the Commodore, & Some of his officers renderd the Horses unnecessary—he always inquires kindly after you and Charles so you See if the Age of Chivalry, as mr Burk asserted, is past that of Gallantry still exists—It gave us all great pleasure to have So handsome an approbation of mr Smith, from you. I felt it in a peculiar manner, because I had in some measure been instrumental in his obtaining his Situation—I cannot Say what will be Williams situation. his Father gave him all that Should fall to him from his uncle, but I fear their are creditors to swallow it all up. he is gone to the valley, but I know now what is to Support him.Will it be requesting something out of your Line to ask you to purchase me a floor cloth, commonly calld an  cloth, for my dinning parlour, 17 foot by 18. I cannot  them here in one peice. if it comes out in the spring it will be early enough, and better dried—mrs Adams will execute the commission for me. the Bill must accompany it, which, Shall be paid to your BrotherI want to know if a heavey postage does not attend Letters which are sent to Liverpool. if So I must be more spairing in my future dispatches, yet the communication is much more frequent there than to London—I shall write to the children if my have time if not by the next vessel—yours as ever

					A A


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Harriet Welsh, September 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Welsh, Harriet

					Dear Harriet
					Sept. 1816

				you are at Liberty to publish the following extract, as a Letter from abroad to a Friend. They are my sentiments well dressed—and he who gave the Toast deserves chastisement were he my Son Brother or Husband I would say so—“I can never join with my voice in the Toast which I see in the papers, attributed to one of our Gallant Naval commanders. I cannot ask of heaven success, even for my Country in a cause where She should be in the wrong—’Fiat Justitia pereat coelam’ My Toast would be—may our Country be always successfull, but whether successful or not, always right—I disclaim as unsound all patriotism incompatable with the principles of eternal Justice—But the Truth is, that the American union, while united, may be certain of success, in every rightfull cause, and may if it pleases never have any but a rightfull cause to maintain. They are at this moment the strongest Nation upon the Globe for every purpose of Justice—May they be just to secure the favour of heaven & wise to make a proper application of their strength—may they be armed in Thunder for the defence of right, and self shackled in Eternal impotence for the support of wrong.”These are sentiments which will endure, and bear the test of Time. there is one passage more in the Letter which I know will give you great pleasure. writing of the death of Col S. he says it has surly distrest his son, “in whom I have an industriues attentive and faithfull assistant”yours as ever

					A A

					no Gino D—yet


Title: From Susanna Boylston Adams Clark Treadway to Sarah Smith Adams, 3 October 1816
From: Treadway, Susanna Boylston Adams Clark
To: Adams, Sarah Smith

Quincy October 3rd. 1816

I have written three times to my Dear Mother since I received a line from her. A letter from Mrs Smith, to Caroline, this morning, informed me, that you, and Aunt Nancy, had been passing some time, at the Valley. I was rejoiced to hear, my beloved Mother, that you were so well, as to be from home, but I do most sincerely wish, I could hear from you more frequently: it is almost three months since I have received a line from Utica.
I am in momentary expectation of Mr Clark’s return; he wrote me, that he should leave Washington for Boston, last Thursday, and I think  will be here (if an accident occurs) today, or tomorrow, he writes dejectedly, as his visit to his Uncle, has proved unsuccessful. the old gentleman, was in such a state of imbecility as to be incapable of attending to anything; he conversed with Mr C upon the prospect of his marriage and said, it was his intention to leave him half his Estate, when he died. Mr Clark told him, if he ever intended doing anything for him now was the time, when it would prove, of the most service, but this, had no effect. I have written and endeavoured to raise his spirits and encourage him, but he feels his situation, to be . do write to me dear mother, for indeed I require your advice, and counsel, and sometimes I cannot overcome my depression of spirits. I firmly believe that every thing is for the best, and ordained for some wise purpose, beyond the comprehension of short sighted mortals; there is a superintending Providence, above, who governs all things, and on him I will rely, under every circumstance.
Caroline intends remaining with us, about a fortnight longer, her little girl is a great source of amusement; She is very playful and enjoys perfect health. has Sisters dear little boy any teeth, or does he go alone? Kiss him for one dear Mother, and present my best love to Mr Johnson and Abby.
all here, desire, affectionate remembrance to you, I am most tenderly your Daughter

S B Adams


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 5 October 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					My dear Mother.
					Little Boston 5. October 1816.

				As I am not yet enabled to write the threatened long Letter to my father, I must replace it by the weekly short one to you.Last Sunday, Mr E. Brooks, Mr Bigelow, and a few others of our American Visitors, came out and dined with us—Two days afterwards Mr Brooks sent me your Letter of 2d. May enclosed, with Mr Norton’s funeral Sermon upon our venerable friend and kinsman Dr. Tufts; and a Letter of 3. May from my dear and honoured father. I supposed Mr Brooks had kept these Letters considering them as merely introductions. He had already some weeks since delivered at my Office in town the watches for George and John.You were no doubt surprized at the remark in Mrs Tarbel’s Letter, upon your Son’s neatness: surprized at least enough to underscore the word. But I should be sorry to disappoint you, with any delusive hopes of his radical reformation—Well does he remember your ever affectionate admonitions to him thirty years ago.”Careless at 20—is a Sloven at 30. and is intolerable at 40—”But what then of 50?—for that is the question now—Alas! Mrs Tarbel saw him at a lucky moment—He hopes he has not verified your proverb of progressive viciousness—but he is certainly at 50, what he was at 20—at 30—at 40—careless, excessively careless of personal appearance; and utterly incapable of every rising to the dignity of a Dandy.Our boys have contrived to eke out their Michaelmas Holidays till next Monday—Enclosed, are Letters from John and Charles—George is gone with his name sake Mr G. Joy to Cambridge, and has had at the same time the opportunity of seeing the Newmarket Races—He is to give you a full account of it in his Journal—We expect him home this Evening.We are all in comfortable health, and all in duty and affection ever your’s.

					A.


Title: From John Adams to Ward Nicholas Boylston, 7 October 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Boylston, Ward Nicholas

Dear Sir
Quincy October 7th. 1816

Your kind favour of the 27th. of Septr. has greatly obliged me. The Will of your Uncle has not Surprised me. I have known his Mind more than forty years ago. I believed him insane “quoad hoc,” at that time, as much as I do now. There was a Sense of Integrity and Benevolence and Humanity in him, united with the Wild Vagaries of a Monk and a Miser. A more curious Character is not to be found in History or Romance. I could relate to you many Anecdotes, which I have never thought worth while to hint to you.
I rejoice that you have renounced your Idea of a Cabinet of Boylston Pictures. You must have perceived the national Antipathy to Aristocratical Families. Dr Zabdiel Boylston deserveded Sepulchal Monument. Your Uncle Nicholas has deserved to be remember’d. And you have deserved a Niche in Harvard Colledge as well as your Uncle. But ostentatius displays of your Family Merits, will ruin all. Will destroy all the good Effects of your real Benevolence. I regret the Boylston Street and the BoylstonMarket, and even the Town of Boylston.
These may appear Paradoxes to you, But they are not to me.
I advise you to give your Pictures and your Property to your own Posterity, as I am determined to dispose of mine, little modicum as it is. And leave to Providence the disposition of it, after our decease.
I am, affectionately your Friend and Cousin
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to John Adams Smith, 11 October 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Smith, John Adams

dear John
Quincy October 11th 1816

I have a great Mind, to rattle with you in your own Way, in your Letter of July 18th—
Do you know that a Mob, is the most powerfull and irresistable Army in the Universe? I can prove it. The Scotch Highlanders in several Rebellions, The People of La Vendée, but above all the Conquest of the Bastille, are full Proofs. No Phalanxes, No Legions no Regulars, no Legitimates have ever equaled Such Heroism. The Knights of Malta never—Fish Giggs, Harpoons Irons Scythes on long Poles, Threshing Flails, Axes, Club’s have overthrown Horse, Foot and Artillery of disciplined and veteran Armies, familiar with the Trade of Death—
Dispise not the Militia. It is a Nursery of heroes and Patriots. The Militia of Boston, New York, Phyladelphia Baltimore &c are very respectable.—Soyez raisonable, John! Sobrius esto, John!—What controversies, what Wars, are arising, I know not. A War between Christian and Massulmans, for any thing that I know. But a long War between Legitimacy and Equality, I do know will be long Supported. With more
With more anxiety and affection than you will ever believe, I am / your Grandfather
A
PS With great pleasure have I read your Uncles Testimony to your Industry, Attention and Fidelity. such Virtues cannot fail to be of great Assistance to him in the Situation of his Forlorn Hope.
J. A.


Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 12 October 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

					N. 52.My dear Sir.
					Little–Boston 12. October 1816.

				I am still not only to answer, but to acknowledge the receipt of your kind Letters of 3. 10. 18. 24. and 26. July; and 4. August—all of which I had the pleasure of receiving at once by Messrs Thacher and Bigelow, who came fellow Passengers in the same vessel Mr Bigelow has been out here and dined with us—His father, the Speaker, was one year before me, at the University, where I had a pleasant, though short acquaintance with him—He was then as sociable, as you find him now, and an excellent Scholar—I remember his telling me then that his Mother had been one of your pupils at Worcester—Since he left College, I have scarcely seen him but have ever heard of him as an estimable man, in every thing but his Hartford Convention Politics. He was John Lowell’s Chum at College; and you who know so well how to combine Causes and Effects, may trace to that source the channel both of his political advancement, and his political errors.  He is one of those well meaning, and sensible men, who followed the ignis fatuus of Juntoism, till they and their Country were sinking in the bottomless quagmire of disunion. Mr Thacher’s state of health did not permit him to come out with Mr Bigelow—He was here yesterday; but I was unfortunately, in London, and did not see him—I shall call at his lodgings if possible the next time I go to Town. His physician here has recommended to him a voyage to the Cape of Good Hope—From what I hear of his complaint, it can scarcely be expected ever to admit of his resuming the exercise of his profession.Next week I hope to reply, more at length to the several affectionate admonitions, and good Counsels in your Letters—George has returned from his tour to Cambridge, which also proved a Norfolk shooting party—He is to send you or his Grandmother a copy of his Journal. His health is now tolerable; but unsteady—the rest of us are well.  your ever affectionate Son.

					A.


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Catherine Maria Frances Johnson Smith, 15 October 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Smith, Catherine Maria Frances Johnson

					Quincy october 15th 1816

				Your Letter my dear mrs Smith of Sepbr 23d I received while Caroline de Wint & her Babe were with me. It gave us both great pleasure to learn that you were well. mr & mrs de wint & miss Catharine Smaltys left us on the 12th for N York yesterday I received a few lines from Caroline Saying they reachd Providence the day they left us, & intended taking the packet the next day—I wish to hear of their Safe arrival there, as we have had for ten Days an—Atmosphere darkned with Smoak & enveloped with a fog beside—I Suppose Caroline has written You, that they have taken a small House in N Yo city, & mean to pass the winter there—they will feel themselves more at their ease than at Lodgings—and it is time Caroline Should commence House keeper—which I recommend to every married Lady—mr de Wint proposes building the next summer near to his Mothers—Caroline has been fortunate in having an excellent Husband independent yet final, generous but not expensive—kind and affectionate virtuous & happy—who could wish for more?—Abbe Situation is, from all I can learn is not less So. I am not So well acquainted with mr Johnson, but all I do know of him, is that which is good and amiable—Susan has found an attachment a Leiut Clark of the Navy belonging to the US Ship Independence has formed an attachment to Susan. a Gentleman not less amiable than the two I have mentiond; but alass fortune has not been so propitious to him and they must wait untill her Smiles become more generous. his Character both as a gentleman & an officer—Stand So fair and respectable, that I could not put a Negative upon his application—altho he has to seek his living, upon the “mountain Deepe” and their union cannot Soon take place—Having finishd my one Family picture I will turn to an other. From mr Adams I yesterday received a short Letter of August 12th he writes me that he had flatterd himself that he had got through all the Court Parties & ceremonies and could devote himself to buisness, & writing to his correspondents, but the Prince Regents Birth day is to be celebrated by an Evening party to be given by the Queen at Buckingham House. he Says He Shall Refer me for an account of it to my usual Chronicler, to whom all Reports upon the National affairs of this importence are refer given in Charge—I have not yet received it—He Says that at the wedding of the Duke & Duchess of Glouscester, She took a cough which is Still very troublesome to her. in a Letter which Caroline wrote you from hence, She, by permission inclosed you two Letters from your Sister to me, in one of which mention is made of her being at a Party at the King of Hayttis Ambassadors—this personage is no less a man than Prince Saunders, a Black man, who received in Boston a good School Education—and having a desire for learning & being a sober Character, he was patrenized by mr Buckinminster and Ticknor Everet and others. he Establishd an affrican School, and became successfull as a master of it—being out of health & having a desire to go to England some Gentlemen in Boston raised a Sum of money to enable him to go there—accordingly when my Grandsons George & John went out, he was a passenger in the Same Ship, and became very fond of them—soon after his arrival he was visited & Patronized by many of the Abolition Society, and finding him a Man of Talents & considerable learning—the society sent him to Haity to vacinate the inhabitants of that Country—no doubt he carried out Letters of introduction & recommendation to King Henry, for he was received there in State—and having been Successfull, was Sent out to England with a handsome establishment; tis Said in order to be made a Bishop—it is certain that he is visited by the Royal Dukes by Countesses Dutcheses and Nobility of the Kingdom—here follows the account of your Sister of the party—company present at mr Saunders Countess Cork, and elderly Lady Countess Alexbourough General Doyle, mr Pen, Mrs Crew. of these She draws Characters, tres mour rather Saterical—She then Says you would be diverted Could you See this Black Gentleman familiarly whispering in the ear of countesses talking of his tendress and his being jealous, and Shaking hands with them, Sans ceremonie—all this may appear to you a fable, but it is never the less true,—on the Ladies retireing from table, I discoverd in the drawing Room the Portrait of mr Saunders which had just been hung up in a splendid Gilt Frame, dressed in a Spanish dress with a Scarlet cloak & a point Lace ruff round the Neck. we were of course obliged to admire the likeness & offer our Compliments—In the Evening mr Saunders had an At Home, but I retired early. He is to take the countess of Cork out in his Landau, and to be at a large Monte at the Countesses in a fancy dress this Evening—His dinner was proper and in a very good Stile served upon China desert in and Ises in cut Glass: a profussion of the best of fruits. mr Saunders—so forcable is habit—forgot that he was the Master; and certainly waited upon his company with great attention”—I give you this account as one of the Phenomenons of the Age in which we Live, which may carry it in its train concequences, unforseen to the present Acters—the Slave holders in America will not be much delighted with the honours pa paid this black Prince—I have written you a long Letter hopeing to amuse you in your Located Situation—If miss Smith is with You my Love to her—and to your Husband—to whom say that mr A. writes of John “I find in mr Smith, a faithfull able & industerous assistant” this is joy to meYours affecly

					A Adams


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 15 October 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

				99.
					My dear Mother.
					Ealing 15. October 1816.

				The quiet Season has at length arrived. For the last six weeks I have had no occasion to go into London, except upon business, and there is some relaxation of that—Almost all the Cabinet Ministers are absent upon excursions; and Lord Castlereagh is gone to Ireland to see his father. The Morning Chronicle gives a shrewd hint, that it is the sign that Parliament will be dissolved, and that his Lordship is gone upon an electioneering campaign—The Courier says Parliament will not be dissolved, and that the visit of a Son to his father is amply sufficient to account for Lord Castlereagh’s journey—On this occasion I agree with the Courier in opinion—And Oh! that I too could make a visit to my father!You will learn from the newspapers, that the Lord Mayor of London, of whose polite and friendly attentions to us, I have more than once made mention to you, is as popular among his Constituents, as he is at Little Boston—The Livery of London by a commanding majority, and a Spirit which the Court of Alderman did not venture to resist, have rechosen him for the ensuing year—an honour which for more than a century no other Lord Mayor has enjoyed. This is attributed partly to the uncommon ability and vigour with which he has filled the Office, and partly to the political dispositions of the People in the City—There is a certain dissatisfaction spreading not only among the Citizens of London, but throughout the kingdom, occasioned by what are called the distresses of the Country; that is, by the load of taxes.Mr Russell, our  Minister to Sweden passed through London last week on his way to Liverpool, to embark for the United States. It is rumoured that he proposes shortly to return, with a fair partner from Boston.George says that he sends you a copy of his journal by the month—He will give you an account of his visit to Cambridge—your ever affectionate Son.

					A.


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Dolley Payne Todd Madison, 24 October 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Madison, Dolley Payne Todd

Dear Madam
Quincy october 24th 1816

Your Letter of October 12th was an unexpected pleasure, and I cannot regret the occasion which gave rise to it, altho there appears now to have been some mistake respecting it.
I have heard my Friend frequently mention the circumstance, communicated to him by mr Stodart, tho not untill it was out of his power to comply with it, and with Sincere Regret that it was so. for beside the high personal regard which he has always entertaind for mr Madison, he has known how to appreciate his publick Services—Services which diminish the Epithet “of first in War, first in Peace, and leave to him, as many of the Hearts of the people.
There was not any apology necessary my Dear Madam, for omitting to replie to my Letter, altho I Should have esteemd myself flatterd by it—It was sufficient that my request was complied with; altho I own reluctantly made. I have avoided as much as possible all application made to me upon similar occasions—I was happy to learn from mr Adams in a late Letter that he was quite Satisfied with mr Smith, “In whom he writes, “I find an industerous, attentive and faithfull assistant”
I pray you Madam to Present my Respectfull regards to the President, with whom it was is my misfortune to have but a slight personal acquaintance, being Sick and absent from Philadelphia the Winters he past there—but there is not any one who entertains a higher Respect for his publick and private Character, than / Madam your obliged

A Adams


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to John Adams, 24 October 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, John

					Dear John,
					Quincy october 24th 1816

				I am not conscious that I have been deficient in a return to all the Letters you have written to me, and I now acknowledge your last, july 31styou have had a long vacation—I hope it has not all been Spent in amusement, and dissipation—you knew I used to wish you back to your School; when the vacation was only a fortnight. you sometimes used to think hard of it. you will not think so, when you know the value of Time, and the shortness brevity of Life. From ten to 50, which is the period best suited for improvement, and for retaining what is acquired, is but a short Space to obtain knowledge, in any of the , sciences; Languages and or Literature. of these forty years—calculate, as you are a good arithmatician, how much of it, must be  in Sleep, in Nourishment of the Boddy—and necessary relaxation—then Say what proportion remains for close application?I have been young, but now am old, and look back with regret, that So much of my valuable Time has been spent in vain. I think now that I might have done much more Service in the world, and acquired more Substantial knowledge.with Years, & old Age, the little which can be acquired, soon vanishes—it is necessary that all the good we can do, and all the knowledge we can obtain, should be applied for the benifit of those who are to succeed us. No man liveth for himself.“Man like the gen’rous vine, supported livesThe Strength he gains is from the embrace he gives”Let your Reputation be unspotted and your Character unblemishd, that it may descend with credit to yourself to futurity.your Grandfather has requested me to inclose to you Some translations which he has made from Terence—be sure he has sifted the wheat from the chaff. I do not profess to be a classick scholar, but he is no favorite of mine.In one of your Letters, you assure me that far from forgetting your American Friends; they become nearer to you. if so I presume it will please you to learn something respecting themYour cousin Thomas Adams is grown a great Boy, and old enough to go to a Mans School—Hull is a fine Boy, but a great Rogue—John Quincy, a black Eyed easy, good humourd fellow—Abbe and Elizabeth pretty Girls.——But the most active eager, sprightly, little thing of all, is my great Grand daughter Caroline Elizabeth de wint.—She has the complexion of her Grandmother Smith, fine blew Eyes & rosy cheeks. She is at present very Beautifull and was quite our pet, while with us.—mr & mrs de wint and Family left us last week, and miss H welch, who is an apendage to them, remaind only a few days after, and then went cousin Susan who is the Life of the Family, to make a visit to her Hingham Friends so that Grand Father, and cousin Louissa are all who are left. She you know is a Great Talker. if it were not for our Books, which we can yet read; and our pens, we should find some heavey hours in these long Evening’s—I have engaged in reading La Harpes correspondence with the Emperor of Russia, & with Count Schowalow, & that in French, in which I succeed pretty well.The season has been the most remarkable I ever knew, Indian corn universally cut off, the whole Summer so cold, that with the exception of a few days we have kept fires. Potatoes have grown in abundance and must be used in place of Bread for the whole country has Shared in this Calamity mr Tennant upon the Farm planted 45 acres of Grain. the Rye & Barley were productive, the corn will answer only for the cattle—fruit blasted. we are blessed with health, and I do not think any persons will suffer for lack of Bread—can England say as much?Thus my dear John I have brought you back to your own relatives & fireside, where too see your smiling countanance again, and those of your Parents & Brothers would Cheer the Heart, and Renovate the Frame of Your / affectionate GM

					Abigal Adams


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Harriet Welsh, 24 October 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Welsh, Harriet

					Dear Harriet
					24 october 1816

				I have not had any opportunity of returning the Letter and paper you Sent me on Saturday. mr C. did not call here on Sunday, but went on to Hingham. he did not return on Sunday Evening with Susan as I expected, nor Stop here on Monday, all of which I dissaprove—the poor Mans mind is much perplexd. we had a conversation, which gave rise to a Letter of a Friendly Nature, and a most tender and affectionate replie from him. he is I beleive in determined to do something beside Walk the deck of a Ship, in harbour—a Life to him of inaction, most repugnant to his feelings—which are too accute for his happiness. he says he cannot read, he cannot study—his mind is not at ease—his wishes cannot in prudence be complied with—and he must do Something—what a pity that fortune does not follow the Brave, and favour the virtuous—yet may be, they owe their very virtues to her frowns—I congratulate you upon the return of your Brother John, who I hope you have seen e’er this—my Love to him, and H Birdman for his wife if he can get her—I think our Friends fortunate in going when they did. they would have been worse off if they had remaind longer. I hope Caroline will not make herself sick by her exertions—she had but little Strength to aid her. I did not get the Starch—I thank you for the  diaper thread needle and &c which you have Sent—the Quinces shall be sent by mr A when he goes. is there any vessel now up for London or Liverpool? I shall have Letters ready. mr Saunders I see has arrived at Hayti with his professors—what will be the sequel of this buisness time must develope—I will not close this Letter untill the Morning when may hop I shall have more last words—mr A has calld I can say no more than that I will write on Saturdayyours

					A

					by joy a fine morning


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Richard Rush, 28 October 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Rush, Richard

Dear Sir
Quincy october 28th 1816

Your former kindness, and your known benevolence encourages me to again solicit your aid
Mr Clark, to whom I gave a Letter of introduction to you, not long since, and for whom you once before interested yourself, is very desirious of engageing in some active employ more congenial to his feelings, than doing Duty on Board a ship in port. With the consent of Commodore Bainbridge, he last week applied to the Secretary of the Navy, for orders to join the squadron under Commodore Chauncy in the Mediterranean. His Health requiring that he should pass the winter in a milder Climate than our Northern winters afford.
Mr Adams wrote a Letter to the Secretary of the Navy in his behalf. Since his application mr Clark has learnt, that the Chippewa Brig, is orderd to Spain, to carry dispatches from the Government. It would be a great gratification to him, if he might be the Bearer of them—as the appointment lies with the Secretary of State, will you be so good Sir as to apply to him in behalf of mr Clark, if you can do it consistent with your Ideas of  Propriety—he can deliver the dispatches, and proceed afterward & join the Fleet. He is very desirious of being married before he goes away, upon this subject we do not agree. while I have it not in my Heart to blame his Zeal, prudential motives oblige me to refuse my assent. The following is a coppy of a Letter from Commodore Bainbridge, written in reply to some inquiries respecting mr Clark soon after he became intimate in our Family.
“Dear Sir Boston June 23d 1816
Leuit Clark, who has been seven years in the service, has been twelve months attachd to the squadron under my command, and more than half that time to my immediate ship the Independence he had previously saild with Captains Smith & Porter, officers of distinguishd merit, both of these officers entertain the highest opinion of the merits and promise of Leiut Clark—and I selected him as one of the officers of the Independence which I should not have done, if I had not have entertaind for him, the most favorable opinion, and his conduct has verified my fullest expectations from him, as an officer, and a Gentleman, I certainly can speak in the highest terms of him
His moral Character is excellent in fact, he is an uncommonly steady young man, and his mess mates say that he has an excellent temper—”
I may add that from my acquaintance with him, I fully believe mr Clark will discharge with fidelity and ability any commands the Government may honour him with—
My kind regards to mrs Rush from / your obliged Friend

Abigail Adams


Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 29 October 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

My dear Sir
Little Boston Ealing. 29 October 1816

I have acknowledged the receipt of your seven Letters, dated in July, and August, received by Mr Thacher and Mr Bigelow and also of one dated in May, but very lately delivered by Mr Brooks. It is more than time for me to reply to their contents.
I never had much relish for the speculations of the first philosophy. In that respect I resemble your Eels in Vinegar, and your mites in cheese, more than you do. For with proper deference to your opinions, I venture to suggest that this enquiry into the why and the wherefore of all things, is precisely that which constitutes the difference between you transcendendental philosophers, and the eels and the mites—They never enquire why or wherefore? You say trust the Ruler with his skies—And do as you would be done by—I say so too—The first we must be willing or reluctant—As to the last: all the philosophers join in the Chorus—All say, do as you would be done by—But not so do they all do—Whether Frederick recollected where he had passed his first nine months, when he stole Silesia from Maria Theresa, may be questioned; but then, and throughout his life, he never ceased to say do as you would be done by—I have heard it said what when Charles Fox, was a boy, his father gave him a watch—The first thing he did was to take it to pieces to see how it was made.. His father should have said to him—Charles—trust the watchmaker with his watch—It was a foolish curiosity on Charles, and he lost his watch by it, for the watch maker–himself could not put it together again—But if Charles had been one of the mites or eels in human shape, he never would have taken his watch to pieces—As for you, my dear and ever honoured father, though you never like Frederick stole anything from anybody, and although you have been all your life doing as you would be done by, yet your theory and your practice do not always coincide—Your great example does not  strengthen all your Laws—You enquire into the why and the wherefore, as curiously as any man whether pious Christians like Sir Isaac Newton, or reprobate Atheists like Diderot, and the Baron d’Holbach. Now my theory is more like your practice; and my practice more like your theory. I never took much delight, in reasoning high upon
Fixed Fate, Free Will. Foreknowledge absolute—
but I have always thought that they are favorite contemplations of the brightest human intellects, and independent of Revelation, it is only by such researches that the mind of man can arrive at the idea of a God—All reasoning upon such Subjects leads to that; and that is the foundation of all morality—For the present, my principled enquries are not after the inside but the existence  of Heaven—I have, got Bodes Uranographia,and with the help of it, am taking lessons every Star light night, of physical astronomy, with George, and an amiable young Lady of eighteen who is here on a visit, to my wife—I think you was the primary cause of all this—Some five or six years ago Mr Vander Kemp gave you a hint that Turgot a famous later compliment to Dr. Franklin, was Stolen from the Astronomies of Manelius upon which you wrote to me, making some enquires about the Book—The consequence was that I procured and read it, and was much diverted with it. But although it was rather a Book of Astrology, than of Astronomy, Still it contained such an account of the principal antient Constellations, that I was ashamed to find I could not understand much of it for want of knowing the Constellations as they appear in the Heavens. I therefore borrowed Bodes Charts, and with an Opera Glass for my only Telescope, made my acquaintance with all the Constellations, which the few Clear wintry Nights and mornings of St. Petersburg would discover—After leaving Russia, my attention was too much absorbed, by the affairs of the Earth to be wandering over the firmament, but since I have resided here, I have sent to Berlin for a set of Bodes Charts, and which the benefit of their introduction take occasionally tickets again for the concerts of the Spheres—The mystical Seal upon this Letter is one of the fruits of my profound studies into the Necromancy of Mailius, and the motto is Born from whom I have as good a right to borrow, as Mr Turgot, though in the practice of doing as I would be done by, I think proper to acknowledge the debt.
Your advice to me with regard to my children must in all cases have the greatest weight. That of returning them soon to complete their Education in our native Country accords entirely with my own Sentiments and intentions—I hope George will be prepared here, to enter one or two years in advance at Harvard. He is making his principal proficiency in the Latin and Greek Languages, and I hope will become a Scholar—He has a fault which always attended his father—That of being most slow in learning precisely those things for which he has the assistance of a teacher—As to the performance of Terence’s Plays, I have formed a much higher opinion of the usefulness of that exercise than I entertained before I had witnessed its effects—It’s great advantage is in familiarizing the language, and forming a habit of speaking naturally in public. It compels all the performers to understand the whole Play, gives them the correctest idea, now attainable of the colloquial language of Rome; and the manners and Plots of those Comedies, are so remote from every thing they witness around them, that I think there is not much to be apprehended of an unfavourable influence of them upon their Morals. The Spur to emulation is sharper than in the performance of tasked Studies—The part in a Play is not a task, but a reward. Not a burden, but a prize. The voluntary Student applies to it with double ardour, and the idler buckles to it from the dread of shame. Then the language is elegant, the taste pure simplicity, and the Sentiment though as you have observed to the children, rather scanty, generally correct, often ingenious, occasionally profound, and in some instances sublime—You have indeed skimmed the cream of Terrence and sent it to my boys—I trust they will preserve it and that it will aid them in drawing all the solid benefit from the amanuensis of Selius and Scipio, which he can afford to their future lives.
Mr Thacher is gone, by the advice of the physicians whom he consulted here, to the Cape of Good Hope. They flatter him with Hope, which I wish may prove well founded; I saw him only once and for a short half hour; and regretted much that I could enjoy more of his Society. Mr Bigelow is gone or going to Edinburgh
Since beginning this Letter, I have received yours of 26. August and 5. September, and am highly gratified by your and my Mother’s Account of your social party at Judge Otis’s—Among the lights and shades of that worthy Senator’s character, there is none which shews him in brighter colours than his hospitality. In the course of nearly thirty years that I have known him, and throughout the range of experience that I have had in that time, it has not fallen to my lot to meet a man more skilled in the useful art of entertaining his friends than Otis; and among the many admirable talents that he possesses, there is none that I should have been more frequently, and more strongly prompted to Envy; if the natural turn of my disposition had been envious—Of those qualities Otis has many—His Person, while in Youth, his graceful Deportment, his sportive wit, his quick intelligence, his eloquent fluency, always made a strong impression upon my Mind; while his warm domestic Affections, his active Friendship, and his Generosity always commanded my esteem—This tribute is due from me to him, after the remarks which I made to you in a former Letter upon some of his less estimable characteristics—I think his Politics have never been founded upon steady principle—I believe he has countenanced and supported measures of the most fatal import, which his conscience did not approve, from the want of mental energy; and I know that from a very early date he has personally been afflicted with the feelings of a rival towards me. A vague and general feeling of rivalry; for I never stood in the way of his wishes for any particular Object.—It was so with poor Bayard, in a much greater degree, and with less reason—Mrs Otis is and always has been a charming woman; and I am very glad you have seen them both in the place where all others they appear to the greatest advantage—their own house.
The Peace of Europe is, and will continue for the present to be undisturbed—There is in this Country, some distress, considerable discontent, much grumbling, efforts to stir up the People to petition for a reform of Parliament; but hitherto with very little success—Occasionally a riot among the workmen, which is immediately suppressed. The revenue still yields abundantly. Parliament will not meet before February.
Faithfully yours

A.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Mary Catherine Hellen Adams, October 1816
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Mary Catherine Hellen

post October 1816

On the Portrait of My Husband.
The painters Art would vainly seize
That harmony of Nature;
Where Sense and goodness joined with ease
Shine forth in every feature.—
That open front where wisdom sits,
That eye which speaks the Soul;
That brow that study gently knits
That bright attempered whole,
That vast variety of mind
Capacious, clear and strong,
Where brilliancy of wit refined
Enchants the list’ning throng;
That sense of right by God imprest
That virtuous holy love;
Of excellence whate’er is best
Imparted from above!
These Painter if thou can’st impart
Shall fame immortal raise
And e’en the greatest in thy Art
Shall carol forth thy praise—
L. C. Adams
Written in 1816 in England
My Dear Mary
I send you this effusion of a sorry Muse as an attempt to deleniate that which Artists seldom succeed in—it is at least drawn by the Pencil of love and respect for the original; and the world generally has sanctioned the likeness. The very flattering but undeserved Note of approbation from your Aunt recently received has excited enough of vanity to induce me to offer you an Autograph as a Memorial of my  respect—and on a Subject generally acknowledged great and estimable—
With affectionate regard / your friend
Louisa Catherine Adams
    1st. line impart.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 4 November 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					My dear Mother.
					Little Boston, Ealing 4 November 1816.

				Since I last wrote to you, I have received your kind Letters of 27. August, and of 10. June, which I mention in the order, not of their dates, but of their reception. That of June enclosed a printed Copy of Judge Story’s biographical eulogium of our late excellent friend Dexter, whose loss is a calamity to our Country, and especially to our Native State, which with all her errors and follies I do most faithfully love. Coll. Aspinwall had already received and obligingly sent me Judge Story’s Sketch, which is very good; but which would have been much better, had the judge not been manacled and fettered by his situation. He is thereby precluded from paying the deserved tribute to that which was precisely the brightest part of Dexter’s character—His political firmness, independence, and intrepidity. His contempt of the shackles of Party politics, and the vigour of mind which enabled him to break from them as easily as Sampson in his strength broke from the Cords of the Philistines—Now a Panegyric upon Dexter which slurs over this his first and most glorious characteristic, is like a life of Columbus, which should skip over his Discovery of America—I readily admit the Judge’s apology that these are hot ashes, over which it would have been dangerous for him to tread; but then it must in return be admitted that neither the time, the place nor the Speaker could do Justice to the highest merits of Mr Dexter I am nevertheless very glad that this tribute was paid to him, and trust his memory will in due time be honoured by an estimate in which no sacrifice will be necessary to the Passions and Prejudices of a discordant auditory.Your account of your party with my father, at Mr Otis’s gave me great pleasure. Of the qualities that constitute the charm of social intercourse I have never known any persons possessed in a higher degree than Mr and Mrs. Otis. I ascribe their civilities and polite attentions to you to the best of motives, and they have my sincere and cordial gratitude for them.We are all well enough to be preparing to go to a Ball, in honour of the Duke of Kent’s Birth-day—which obliges me to close for this week, with the assurance that I am ever yours.

					A.


Title: From Richard Rush to Abigail Smith Adams, 4 November 1816
From: Rush, Richard
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					Respected Madam.
					Washington November 4. 1816.

				I have been honored with your favor of the 28th of last month, which got to hand this morning.The wishes of which it makes mention on behalf of Mr. Clarke, to be the bearer of the dispatches by the Chippewa to Spain, I will, with the greatest pleasure, lay before the secretary of state: the testimonials to his merit, and fitness for such a trust are so perfectly ample, that I flatter myself, that should no selection have been yet made, or determined upon, Mr Monroe will look upon him with all favor. I can assure you Madam, that it will be personally gratifying to me, should it be conferred upon him.Mrs Rush and my little family after a summer’s absence, are all once more about me. She desires I will offer you her respectful and affectionate remembrance. In this part of our country, where, not owning slaves, it is next to impossible to get servants even moderately good, she is the constant nurse and superintendent in all things, of our little children.I will see the secretary of state without loss of time, and should any thing distinctive fall from him in the interview, either the one way or the other, I will do myself the pleasure to drop you another line.honor me, Madam, by accepting the assurances of my respectful friendship and attachment.

					Richard Rush


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to John Quincy Adams, 5 November 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, John Quincy

					my Dear Son
					Quincy Novbr 5th 1816

				while your Father is deeply engaged, in reading, Dupuis “orgine de Tous Les Cultes ou Religion universelle” which he Says is the most Learned work he ever read. all is Silent around me, and I embrace this Season of quiet and tranquility to write to you, and to acknowledge your Letter of August 12th No 92.—your hand writing, always gives me a Spring to my Spirits, and is like a cordial, altho the Glass be not half fill’d.In return I have much to Say to you I do not know whether you will trace my Thoughts in transcribing the following quotation.“A Good Man will Live with the world, as a wise Man will Live with his wife; he will not let himself down to be a dupe to its humours, a devotee to its pleasures, or a flatterer of its faults; he will make himself as happy as he can in the connection for his own Sake, reform where he is able, and complain only when he cannot help it.—I am Sick of that conversation which Spends itself in railing at the times we live in;—I am apt to think, they are not made better by these complaints; and I have often times occasion to know they are made worse, by those very persons who are loudest to complain of them—If this be really one of the habits of Age—it is high time for every Man who grows old, to guard against it, for there is no occasion to invite more pevish Companions for the last hours of Life than time and decrepitude will bring in their train—Let us look back upon things past, with what content we can, Salute time present with the best grace we are able, and resign ourselves to futurity with calmness and a patient mind; if we do not wish to be banished from Society before Death withdraws us from it—do not let us trust to the worlds respect only. Let us Strive also to conciliate its Love”This is very good advise, and I am determined to be very well pleased with the World, and wish well to all its inhabitants, altho in my journey through it, I meet with Some who are too Selfish, others too ambitious, Some uncharitable, others malicious and envious. yet these vices are counter balanced by opposite virtues—and therefore this is a very good world and I always thought the laughing phylosopher a much wiser man, than the Sniveling one—as he who enjoys; must be happier than he who Suffers.Novbr 8thhere I closed my Lucubrations for the Evening, and not hearing of any vessel going Soon, I have not resumed my pen untill this day, when I have to acknowledge your Letter of 23 of August No 93, which was brought me by mr Shaw on Sunday. he came to dine with us, with mr Pitcarn (and a mr Brodee, a Nephew of mrs Pitcarns)—who had visited us the week before, and whom I had not Seen for many years. old Time has made very free with him, as well as with your Mother, tho it has deprived him of his Bloom, and those youth full graces, which renderd him the favorite of the Ladies. he still retains the vigor of his mind, and the fire of his Eye, which always Sparkeld with animation. he is a pleasant intelligent companion, and we were much pleased with his conversation.—we received at the same time the Reviews you Sent, which amuse us, and give us Some knowledge of the new Publications, as well as politicks of the Country—England appears to be in a very distressed condition. Altho she has burdend herself with, and added to the weight of her debt, by her injustice and Rapine towards us, I cannot but feel for the innocent victims of her folly thousands of whom appear to be perishing for lack of food—willing to Labour, but not employ’d. in Such a State, who can answer for concequences? How ought we, in this Land of civil and Religious Liberty, to value, and Cherish our institutions, our Laws & Government?“Shall man alone whom Rational we callBe pleasd with nothing, if not blest with all?”My dear Son, Let me put a Serious question to you. when do you think of returning to your own Country?Mr Madison whose commission you bear, will retire. The Virginia Presidents have so determined it by their example, that 8 years Shall be the measure of time for holding that office. mr Madison will retire in less turbulent times, than any of his predecessors—and with the Love, and affection, of a large Proportion of the Nation.—Mr Munroe, his expected Successor, altho not possessing equal talents, has had much experience in publick Life and has many Supporters and warm Friends—If you can think it consistent with your public duties, there is not any object I have more at Heart than to See you again with your Family, before I go hence—I am with every Sentiment of Love and / affection your Mother

					A Adams


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 11 November 1816
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					My Dear Mother
					Ealing 11th: Novbr. 1816

				Mr. Adams brought me your very kind Letter from Town the day before yesterday dated in Septbr: and was very happy to find that you enjoyed your health so well throughout the Season which is generally so trying to you and I hope that you  will pass the fast approaching Winter equally well. you must be careful of yourself and not expose yourself by taking the whole charge of the family as you are accustomed to do as even admiting your strength to be equal to it you must manage it so as to avoid all possibility of exhausting it. You are fortunate in being surrounded by persons both able and willing to take all this labour off your hands and whose interests are in fact your own therefore my Dear Madam you are bound to give this satisfaction to your family whose best interest is that of prolonging your valuable life and in every respect promoting your personal comfort.It gives me great pleasure to find that you are obliged to participate a little more in the pleasures of Society than of late years you have been accustomed. I have often regreted that you who are so calculated from the natural powers of your mind and experience of the world, to promote social enjoyment should be so far removed from that circle in which you ought to move—Such society without fatigue will I am sure prove beneficial both to yourself, and the President and I sincerely wish you could pass the Winter in Boston.Mr. Sanders left England a short time after the last entertainment which I mentioned in a letter to Mrs: J. Adams and expected to return here in the character of Minister Plenipotentiary from the King of Hayti nothing has been heard from him since his departure He said it was by order of his King that to my ideas he made himself so ridiculous at any rate he spent large sums of money which must have come from that quarter—I believe he is a well meaning man but stronger heads than his might be turned by such a change of circumstances—The Queen sent for him the day he sailed but was too late to see him—I have been much engaged in looking for a house in Town as I do not wish to pass the winter in this village as it really is too far from London either to be convenient for business or pleasure the last Spring we were obliged to attend many of the routs and parties and at Court you know it is impossible to decline which caused us to pass a great part of the night upon the road the parties generally begining at eleven o’clock added to which the fatigue of riding 16 miles and seldom being possible to sit down during the evening—we were seldom in Bed until three or four o’Clock in the morning—which is a serious inconvenience. The Americans likewise find it troublesome and expensive to come so far to see us and on the whole I have thought it would be both prudent and advantageous to Mr. Adams to move into London he laughs at me and says I do not understand his interest you my dear Madam must judge between us understanding as you do every particular of that the situation demands at all events my meaning is for the best and if I err it is from not properly understanding the case properly.I will attend to your Commission as soon as there is an opportunity from London which are at present very scarce—I send you a first attempt which I made in poetry for which I claim all your indulgence. my principal reason for sending them is my Dear Mother that you may understand the answer which is so beautiful I know it will afford you great delight you will perhaps think me very vain—but who would not be vain on such an occasion I am indeed vain of the sentiment of affection he expresses for me but have much too humble an opinion of myself to imagine that any merit but my love and admiration of his own good qualities could call it forth—Present me affectionately to the President and all the family and tell Susan I hope she will meet with as much happiness as I have enjoyed for some years and that her engagement will be a short one. present my love to Louisa—The Boys are all well and Doing as well as can be wished John is a little impatient at not receiving letters he is a great favorite with all his Masters and what is more remarkable one of the most studious boys at School—Believe me ever Dear Madam with every sentiment of esteem and respect your affectionate / Daughter

					L. C. Adams

					I have not heard from my Sister Smith since last January—. Our Portraits are most striking likenesses and should they reach America are to be exhibited at Philadelphia—You will keep the verses of Mr. Adams from the public as they are my own—private property—


Title: From Richard Rush to Abigail Smith Adams, 11 November 1816
From: Rush, Richard
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					Respected Madam.
					Washington November 11. 1816

				I find, from a conversation with Mr Monroe, that it is not the intention of government to send dispatches to Spain by the Chippewa, or to employ her, in any other way, as a dispatch vessel. Hence the rumour adverted to in your favor of the 28th ulto. must, it would seem, have originated in some mistake. I ought to have transmitted this information some days earlier, and beg leave to apologize for not having done so.	It gives me pleasure to add at the same time, that Mr Monroe received the application which I made to him on behalf of Mr Clarke, in a manner that was gratifying, and from the sentiments he expressed, I am sure would have been strongly disposed to employ him in the way suggested, had the vessel been about to sail.	I offer you, madam, in conjunction with Mr Adams, my sincere and respectful salutations

					Richard Rush.


Title: From John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 13 November 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

My ever beloved Sir
Quincy Nov. 13th. 1816

I perceive you are growing Old, by the Curiosity you express to your Mother, to know Something of your Origin. My Fathers Mother was Hannah Bass; My Mothers Mother was Ann White a Daughter of Benjamin White, the Proprietor of Whites Hill in Brookline, a proud Son of Massachusetts Liberty, though an intimate Freind of Governor Dudley, as I have been informed by Richard Dana the Father of Chief Justice Francis Dana your Friend.
It was a favourite Saying of Sam. Adams that he never enquired “who was his Grandfather.”? I know the Reason of this. His Grandfather, though my Father and myself bear his Name, was a Bankrupt. Elijahs Wheel Shall be preserved. Sir John Hurd, Garter King at Arms, a very clever Fellow, was perpetually teizing me about my Pedigree; I told him, I knew nothing about it; but that I was an Englishman of King Charles the firsts days; that I was made of English Beer, for my Ancestors had been Maltsers from the Beginning in America, Maltsers! Said Sir John, “I know what that means” there is nothing more characteristick of an English Country Gentleman. Walking one day in Hide Park, Sir John on Horseback overtook me, by Surprise. He instantly dismounted, led his Horse by the Bridle under his Arm, and Said to me, he had discovered Something ralative to my Family which he wished to Show me and invited me to call at his office to See it. Having other Things of more importance on my mind I never called, and I neither know nor care what his discovery might be. Of all the Impositions upon Mankind this of Pedigree, has been one of the greatest: Yet it is So natural, and So irresistable that every Man is compelled to attend to it, in Self defence. Quincy Church Yard will furnish You with proof that your blood has not flown through Scoundrels, and that is all I desire.
Majora canamus,!
For Sixty Years I have neglected all Sciences but Government and Religion. The former I have, for Several Years passed by in despair, the latter Still occupies my Thoughts, I have all my lifetime, Studied Religions, Irreligions and no Rereligions as much as my contracted means and opportunities would permit; I have read within two years, Grim in 15 Volumes, Tucker in Seven and nine Volumes in twelve of Dupuis. No Romances I ever read, have entertained me So much.
My Conclusion from the whole is “Universal Tolleration” Let the human Mind loose. It must be loose; it will be loose.” Superstition and Despotism cannot confine it. And the conclusion must be that Musquito’s are not competent to dogmatise “πeri του παντος.” Philosophy and Theology must Submit to the Decalogue and the Sermon on the Mount, and trust the Ruler with his Skies.
It is my desire that you purchase for me Du Puis in twelve volumes. I will pay Your Brother.
I am grieved for George. I had conceived hopes from him. But what are my hopes or yours? Of what importance are they? General Boyd, of whom I have a great Esteem will carry this.
I long to See, a Quarterly Review and an Edinbourg Review of Dupuis. They have reviewed Grim, who is not of half the importance to Mankind, as Du Puis.
Dupuis has increased my Attachment to Christianity; but not to Catholic, Lutherian or Calvanistic Christianity.
Wha Shall I Say of Priestleys Observations of Dupuis? Perhaps you know nothing of the one or the other.
A Man Should be in his own Country,  / With more Affection and more Anxiety than I can / express and more than I ought to express, if I could / I am / your
A.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to John Adams Smith, 14 November 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Smith, John Adams

					Dear Sir,
					Ealing 14 November 1816.

				Under the circumstances stated in Coll Aspinwalls certificate (which I return) and in your Letter, I cannot reccommend John McIntosh to relief as a destitute American Seaman.I enclose the Power of Attorney with the certificate concerning the Mayor of Leeds to which the Legation Seal must be affixed. truly yours


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 19 November 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					N. 101.My dear Mother
					Little Boston 19. November 1816.

				Last week I sent you with a Letter from my wife the Newspaper containing the Account of the Lord Mayor’s day feast at Guildhall, where you will find again some mention made of the American Minister—The singularity of the feast did not however consist in his being there; but in the Circumstance that no other Minister, either home-bred or foreign was present; and in the phenomenon still more extraordinary, that it was the second instillation of the same person in the Office of Chief Magistrate, in immediate succession after the first.A Mr Aspland, an Unitarian Clergyman called upon me not long since, and gave me two Copies of a late Periodical Publication, one of which I now enclose to you. It will be particularly interesting to my father and you, as containing a Letter from Mr Van der Kemp, and one to him, as I take it, from Mr Jefferson, with a Syllabus for a comparison between the Doctrine of Jesus and that of the Grecian Philosophers, and that of the Jews before the time of Jesus—I possess a work of this kind, much more comprehensive including a parallel between the Doctrines of Jesus, and those of the Jews and Greeks, but those of Mahomet, of the Persians, Egyptians, Hindoos, Chinese, and indeed with all the systems of Religion and Morals that have ever been promulgated upon Earth—It is in five large Quarto Volumes, and at St. Petersburg where I had some leisure hours I did occasionally dive into it. But it would require an uninterrupted leisure of years, even to read the book, and I must therefore at least postpone the subject, satisfied that I shall find no doctrine that will stand the test of a comparison with that of Jesus.Your Commission for the floor-cloth shall be duly executed. I send you in the mean time some seeds. If you will enclose all your Letters or Packets for me, under Covers addressed “to James Maury Esqr. Consul of the United States, Liverpool.” he will forward them to me immediately, at a very trifling expence of Postage; but when addressed to me, and sent by ships to Liverpool, the Postage from that place is heavy for mere Letters, and enormous for Packets of any size—Therefore only recollect, after addressing them to me, put them under another cover, directed to Mr Maury.—Your’s as ever.
				 A.


Title: From John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 26 November 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

My ever, ever, dear Sir
Quincy Nov. 26 1816

The Newspapers, throughout the Continent are announcing to Europe and America, Somewhat imprudently, that you are recalled and to be made Secretary of State. I know not whence this comes: but whether true or false, I hope it is true. And if it is true, I hope You will accept the Office of Secretary of State. If there is no Truth in it I hope you will demand your Recall and come home. And if they will not Grant your Recall I hope you will come home without it; I had rather you Should retire to Montezillo, renounce all public Employment forever, And lay your Bones here with your Ancestors, than remain where you are, annihilating yourself and ruining you Children.
I live in terror of your long Letter. I fear it will roll upon Metaphysics, Theology, Chronology or History, all of which Subjects I dread. Not because I have any Pirrhohism upon these Subjects, for my Opinions of the most of them have been Settled before you was born; but because it would cost me an hundred Volumes to justify them, which my Eyes and paralitic Fingers will not permit me to write.
The State of Politicks here, is very merry. The Fed’s as they Still call themselves are Seriously divided. There is a Strong Inclination to vote for Monroe. But the Pride of Party opposes. It’s Sagacity foresees Ruin. I foresee, what all Ages have foreseen, that poor earthly Mortals can foresee nothing, And that after all our Studies and Anxieties We must trust Providence.
Oh! how can I express my Feelings for you and your Family. It is impossible. The whole must be included in the Words
John Adams


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to John Quincy Adams, 26 November 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, John Quincy

					My Dear Son
					Quincy Novbr 26th 1816

				I think I will not give to any passenger any Letters, unless a Letter of introduction, for however urgent they are to be charged with them, I find frequently that they lay months before they are deliverd. If my Letters cannot have the Novelty of youth to recommend them, They will lose their most valuable quality, and be very dull in their old Age—like a twice told tale, and very like, better told by others. even that which is most dear to absent Friends, a knowledge of their health and fire side occurrences, lose their value—six months after they are relatedMr Brooks might have forwarded the Letters much sooner—The Galen is to sail within a day or two; more than a month since; I gave Letters to mr Forbes; who said he should go immediatly and last week he saild—Mr Alxandr Everet, your former prottagee & his Lady are to go in her—He is really Benedict, the married Man at last. the Ladies have been ready to shake him in a Blanket for his Seven Years courtship, and report says the parents of the Lady, who is highly spoken of, were desirous of breaking off the match, but she was true as the needle to the pole and Hymen has at last united them. and is it not better, to show your moderation to all men? than by a  precipitate Step, plunge yourself, and those whose happiness you are seeking into difficulties? This is a lesson—as you well know, which was inculcated upon you 25 years ago; and upon your Brothers after you—how well attended to, in some instances, time has shewn. I have the same to go over again with some of my Grandchildren—or rather to one who would be so.To an uncommon solidity, at the Age of 23, is united one of the, “kindest tenderest Hearts, which pity knows” with mind and manners modest and correct, and with a character as an officer and Gentleman, unimpeached—Such is Lieut Clark, who has formed a strong and ardent attachment for your Neice Susan B Adams, and who would soon be united to her, if prudential reasons did not forbid—in concequence of which he has left the Independence, lyeing inactive in our harbour, and by permission is gone to join Commodore Chauncys ship in the Medeterranean in hope’s by active service to be in the way of promotion—The News papers inform us, that you are to be recalld, and made Secretary of State &c &c—this is circulated through all the papers, far and near. I receive compliments &c upon the occasion some I beleive very sincere. many inquiries are made whether I am informd of it, to which I replie, that I know nothing but what the News papers relate unless what I do not think to proper to tell, viz a message from the President, by the Secretary of the Navy, that if mr A. returnd, that office would be offerd to him–I should rejoice in any honorable circumstance that would bring you, to your Native Country–I must now acknowledge your Letters of Sept 28th No 97, and october 5th No 98. I hope you are not as incorrigible as you represent yourself—for a dirty old Man, is worse than a slovenly young one—The only line which I remember in ossian, is that old Age is dark, and unlively” and this my Glass, who is no flatterer repeats every time I have occasion to consult it—I am not without some expectation that mr munroe will have the vote of some, if not all of our Electors—notwithstanding the exertions of the Boston Rebel to prevent it—I must close my Letter, or I shall not be able to discharge a Debt which I owe to your better halfwe are all well, / affectionatly your Mother—

					A—


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 26 November 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					My dear Daughter
					Quincy Nov’br 26th 1816

				I am indebted to you for several very entertaining Letters, while I have not any thing in return to amuse you with. Some marriages amongst the young folk are taking place, miss E Gerry last week to a Major Townsend. Susan was at the visit party. She is well married it is Said. a daughter of doctor Hoolbrooks to a mr Vincet, Brother to mrs E Everet who was lately in England. miss Hoolbrook is an intimate of Susan’s who has been invited to make the Wedding visit but as her Harp is upon the willow, and the Swain just left her, she has not any taste for any thing but musing—Melancholy musing—miss Catharine dexter is an other votary to Hymen. mr Alexander Townsend is the Gentleman to whom She is engaged—After having seen the world in various countries, “its Splendor and its nonsence all” I hope you are looking forward to a return to this, with some pleasing anticipations—here are most of your Relatives and connections, and here I hope your heart, and inclinations will center—I heard from your Sister Smith by mr Clarkson a cousin of mr J Smiths, who left us this morning for Boston She was well about a week since—and her little Boy. She wrote Caroline that they were comfortable there at the valley—I would not let this vessel Sail without a few lines from me—I am glad to learn that George is so well as to be making an excursion into the Country—so many of our Americans visit you, that you get more than I can tell you respecting all the occurrences of it I really feel too Stupid to add any thing more, than that I am your affectionate

					A Adams


Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 3 December 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

				54.
					Dear Sir.
					Little Boston 3. December 1816.

				Mr Cobbett whose political opinions, as you know have undergone some changes since he was battling it in favour of the British Government in Philadelphia, has become the great champion of Parliamentary reform; and in order to increase the number of his readers among the labouring classes of the People, he has lately had recourse to the expedient of reprinting particular numbers of his weekly political Register in a cheap form; upon open sheets—I enclose you those that have been thus published, in which you will find his view, of the present Situation and Prospects of this Country; and you will know what deductions are to be made, on account of his ardent temper, his violent prejudices, his bitter animosities, his overbearing self-sufficiency, and his gross partialities. The distressed state of the Country, which from different and opposite motives is exaggerated by many of all parties, has revived his popularity, which he had almost entirely lost—As he attacks indiscriminately whigs and Tories, and as most of his predictions relative to the War with France were refuted by the Event, he was quite out of credit, and had lost most of his readers. The Ministerial and opposition papers took no notice of him—But now they are all assailing him again; and he is rising in the popular opinion—But he, and a few of the disciples of his school have in a great degree driven the whig leaders from the hustings of the popular meetings; and thus far he is essentially serving the Cause of the Ministry. The whigs would most gladly take advantage of the present times, but Cobbett has cried them down so that they scarcely dare shew their heads—Cobbett boasts of the Meetings all over the Country; but there have been as yet very few. How it may be when Parliament meet, which is to be on the 28th: of January, I undertake not to say; but I expect the next Session will pass  like the last in making long speeches, very moderate, and very excellent sense-less; and in doing nothing—They will feed as many as they can by subscriptions—let the rest starve; and keep the soldiers to shoot down rioters—They will get along with the revenue—and set all else at nought.Very faithfully your’s

					A.


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Richard Rush, 5 December 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Rush, Richard

Dear Sir
Quincy december 5th 1816

My good Friend’s when they are going to make a visit to Washington, wish an introduction to the most Eminent public Characters there, and I embrace with pleasure the opportunity of bringing you acquainted with one of our best Divines. He is a gentleman of Liberal Sentiments, both in Religion and politicks—Knowing that he designed a journey to washington, the Electors, have committed to him, their votes for President. not that I think, he is carrying votes consonant to his own opinion, but for the opinions of others he is not responsible.
I cannot describe this worthy man so well, as in the words of Cowper, Who takes St Paul for his model
 “I would express him Simple, grave, Sincere
In Doctrine uncorrupt; in language plain
And plain in manner, decent Solemn Chaste
Affectionate in look, and tender in address”
He was Educated under the Revd Dr Freeman, who has lately visited your city, of whom I doubt not you have heard. I regretted very much that I did not give him a Letter to you
Mr Coleman, is settled in a neighbouring Town, and frequently exchanges with our Clergyman, who is also an amiable and Liberal man. mr Coleman has a very Lovely Lady for his wife. he keeps a Small accademy for the instruction of youth, to the Number of ten, and he has under his tuition the Sons of Some of our first Characters in Boston. his parochial Duties, and attention to his Pupils, is So arduous that he finds it necessary to take an annual journey to reemit his health and Spirits –
I have a desire he Should See mrs Rush. I think they will be mutually pleased with each other.
The hands of your Friends are So much affected with the cold weather, that after writing a Letter or two, to mr Madison & Munroe—and some for mr Sergeant to my Son, he leaves to me the pleasing occupation of writing to you upon this Subject, paying me the compliment, of Saying, “it will do as well if you write.”
I gave a Letter for you to mr Clark from whom there has not been time, to hear, Since his arrival in Washington he is So amiable and Worthy a man, that I feel a maternal Regard for, and interest in him, and am not a little obliged to you, for your exertions in his behalf.
Make my kind Regards acceptable to mrs Rush / and Believe me dear sir / Ever your friend
Abigail Adams


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Robert Selden Garnett, 5 December 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy,Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Garnett, Robert Selden

thursday 5th December 1816

Mr. and Mrs. Adamsrequest the Honor of
Mr Garnetts
Company at Dinner on
the 12th of December at ———— o’Clock
The Favor of an Answer is requested.


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to John Quincy Adams, 5 December 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, John Quincy

					My dear Son
					Quincy december 5th 1816

				“Oh that I too, could make a visit to my Father,” was your exclamation in your last Letter. more than a visit You may make, my dear Son, If the Newspapers may be credited, for they announce from South to North, that you are to be recall’d and to fill the department of State. this is repeated over and again, & appears to give universal satisfaction. this I learn from all quarters—I rejoice in any circumstance honorable to you, which may recall you here again.You have been absent much longer than You contemplated when You went from us. The Lives of your parents have been lengthend out, to a date, beyond expectation, and I now flatter myself with the hope, that we may be spaired to See you again—our Season is now become very cold and the failure of the crops of Hay, and Indian Corn, gives us serious allarm for the support of the poor. We should not want, if the price abroad did not induce the Speculator to monopolize, and to Ship for foreign markets, what we need at Home. Sixteen thousand Barrels of flower were enterd in one week at the custom house in Boston, yet it keeps up the price, from 12—to 13 dollars pr Barrel.The Electors met this day in Boston for the choice of president. two Electors declined, one was sick, and the vote in consequense, was not taken to day—It is universally believed Mr Munroe will be Elected, altho this State Should refuse to vote for him—as I Suppose they will.I see by the paper that mr J B Johnson is chosen one of the Bank Directors of the National Branch in New Orleans—He is much respected there—we are all at present in good Health, but the weather So cold that my fingers are stiff as I write. no Snow yet—Your Father reads continually, in the morning by candle Light, frequently at five oclock; I cannot rise untill day Light, and try to keep him in Bed, but he cannot Sleep, and rise he must. the Evening too, he reads, unless company prevents, or I read to him. I am now writing by candle Light. So neither of us will Say much about our poor Eyes—George I hope is better. I inclose a Letter from Claudius for him. I look for the promissed journal—I have written myself quite out, and Sent last week by the Galen—no war no politicks what shall I say?Why that I am as ever your / affectionate / Mother

					A—


Title: From John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 6 December 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

Dear Sir
Quincy Decr. 6. 1816

John Sergeant Esquire, a Director of the Bank of U. S. is appointed by that Board to negotiate for ten Millions of Spanish Dollars, offered by a commercial House in London
This Gentleman, a Son of Jonathan Dickenson Serjeant Esq, once an intimate Friend of mine in Congress in times of difficulty and danger, requests an Introduction to you.
I give it, with pleasure, both because I hear a good account of his personal Character, and because your Assistance may be usefull to him in his public pursuit.
Our Massachusetts had half a Mind to vote for Mr Monroe: but as their Magnanimity could not hold out We must remain in a forlorn Minority.
In hopes of Seeing you and your Family Once more I am your ever affectionate

John Adams


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Abigail Louisa Smith Adams Johnson, 9 December 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Johnson, Abigail Louisa Smith Adams

my Dear Abbe
Quincy December 9th 1816

Through Caroline De Wint, I was last Evening informd that your Mother has had a return of the complaint which so much allarmd Us, when She resided here.—Caroline supposed mr Johnson has or would write to inform us of it. but as we have not received any information from any other quarter, I would fain flatter myself that your Dear Mother is better. I have not acquainted Susan, as I wish much to hear from you first, and to learn the State your Mother is in, that I may not leave your sister in a painfull Suspense—Susan has been every week expecting a Letter from her Mother. She has repeatedly written to her, and She has felt it the more, as her Spirits have been deprest, by her Seperation from the Gentleman to whom She holds herself engaged.
He received News from the Secretary of the Navy to repair to Washington & join Commodore Chauncys Squadron in the Mediterranian, he is accordingly gone for that purpose, and by a Letter which Susan received from him yesterday, this is the day he is to Sail—
I have never been acquainted with a more correct, steady, and amiable Young Man. I wish your Mother mr Johnson and you could have known him. If he could consistantly with his duties as an officer, have been permitted to have left the Ship long enough, and I could have thought that in the Eye of the World, no censure would have been attached to allowing Susan to have accompanied him such a journey, they would have made you a visit in the Fall of the year. it was the wish of both of them, often exprest. He has prudently consented to defer his Union and to try to obtain more independent circumstances by active Service. for this purpose & for the Restoration of his Health, which is delicate, not calculated to bear our Severe winters doing daily duty on deck let the weather by ever so inclement, he therefore applide and obtaind permission to join Commodore Chauncys Squardon.
Since he first became acquainted with Susan, not a week has past, in which he has not been once here, beside once a week writing So that be became quite domesticated with us. and the more we knew of him the more attached we have been to him, and his affection for your Sister I beleive to be as Sincere, as it is fervent. his Sentiments and opinions have had Sufficient weight with her, to correct many of her own—I have been the more gratified in this connextion, as it has removed all fears of one which I never approved. you may be assured that mr Clark is deficient in but one particular—I mean a want of Sufficient property to enable him to marry immediatly.
I have regretted that your Eyes would not permit you to keep up a correspondence with your Sister. When distance intervenes writing keeps alive, and warms the affections of the Heart
give my kind Love to your Mother and Say to her that I am anxious, very much so, to hear from her that I learn with pleasure your Aunt Nancy is with her, who goes about doing good, and makes herself as usefull in her Single State as others in a wedded one. my kind Regards to her—I long to See my Great grandson and hope if I live you will bring him next Spring, William Clarkson has made us a delightfull visit. we were all much pleased with him.
If you cannot write, Request mr Johnson to do so as Soon as you receive this Letter from your / Affectionate GM
Abigail AdamsMy kind Regards to mr Johnson and your Aunt


Title: To John Adams from Ward Nicholas Boylston, 13 December 1816
From: Boylston, Ward Nicholas
To: Adams, John

					My Dear Cousin & Friend
					Hermitage Jamaica plain Decr. 13th 1816

				From your suggestions, I have attempted and publish’d an Analysis of the Will of Mr Boylston, which its probable you have seen; but how far I have succeeded in meeting your expectations, (that is, as far as I have gone into it—) you can best determine—any hint or amendment from you on the subject, I shall be greatly obliged to you forAs your opinions have the force of a Commandment I averr’d on no account transgress.—With my affectionate Remembrances to Mrs Adams I am ever sincerely / my Dear Cousin— / affectionately yours

					Ward Nichs Boylston