Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 8 March 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

8–12 March 1820

8th: March—Was very unwell all the morning and the weather was extremely disagreeable—In the evening went to the Drawing Room which was very full—The wedding much talked of in consequence of which the Russian Minister asked me when they might pay their respects and offer their congratulations I told him I understood they were to receive their friends without form or ceremony I believed in the course of the next week but if he wished it I would enquire he said he would be much obliged to me and Madame de Neuville assented Before I left the Drawing Room I told Mrs: Hay what Mr: Politica had requested and she immediately with some warmth said they should not go at all—They had thought proper to make a distinction between her & her Sister and that if they did come those visits should not be returned I told her I had nothing to do with it I merely delivered a Message and left her Heard nothing new—The Young Lady did not appear—
9 The day was uncommonly rainy and stormy & I remained at home all day—Saw no one and heard nothing—Mr: A—  read me a piece in a Boston paper on the Missouri question which I was much struck with—It is admirably written and there is a happy mixture of gravity and satire the most keen which would lead me to suspect that Webster was the Author—If that Man had been in Congress as our Representative what a different figure our State would have made—alas! Alas! how is it fallen—Mr. Otis spoke beautifully I am told but what effect did it produce—it only set forth the blemishes in his political course in a more conspicuous view and changed the sentiment of compassion introduced. We hear no more about it now excepting occasional expressions of anger against Mr: King for the part he acted which they persist in saying was to seperate the Union that he might be President of one half of it as he could not have the whole—I believe they do him injustice—I have known Mr: King many years and have invariably thought him a man of the highest honour and integrity but he is ardent in his character therefore not always cool in judgment and he sometimes suffers his friends to seize him farther than strict prudence would permit—
10 Went out to dine at Col. Tayloe’s where we found a small company consisting of Mr: & Mrs: Brown Mr & Mrs: Loundes The Russian Minister & Secretaries The English Chargé d’Affairs and the Consul with Mr: & Mrs Pleasanton and the family made up the party—The dinner was rather formal but tolerably pleasant—We heard a great talk of the wedding and as usual many ill natured remarks—A person in a publick Office in this Country is very much in the situation of the Man in the fable who endeavouring to please every body entirely failed—In all things which do not concern the publick I am very much inclined to do as I please and I think the P. should do so too for his own comforts. I have heard nothing concerning the ceremony except that there were 7 bridesmaids and 7 Bridesmen and a very handsome supper at which 42 persons sat down—There are to be two Drawing Rooms on Monday and Tuesday next—Returned home early—I mentioned that the Corps Diplomatique were not to be admitted on the occasion to the Ladies and they were all excessively shocked—poor Mrs: Brown who has an eye to the french Mission seemed to feel her dignity terribly wounded through them and was quite solicitous that they might not be told of it all but alas the thing was done and the eclat could no longer be prevented.
11 Went to see Mrs: Hellen who is very dangerously sick I found her very low and feeble with a violent cough and two blisters on made some call as I went returned house and on my way called on Mrs: Smith to inform her of the situation of our Sister Mrs Calhoun is in great in consequence of the illness of her Infant who is not expected to recover—Col Aspinwall promised to call and take a small parcel of shoes for Susan—which have been waiting for an opportunity some time—Mr. Sanford, of the Senate called on me and chatted about half an hour—It has often struck me that he would have been a much more proper person for the Spanish than that poor flighty Forsythe the who is in great distress disgrace here—I must confess I think those that sent him ought to hear the blame and it was evident he had no one qualification suitable for such a Mission—unless it was to enlarge the breach which had been twenty years nearly closing—Mr Crawford his patron is the responsible person and I cannot bear to hear Mr: A charged with it who was averse to him, but who could have no influence even tho’ it came within his own Department—The only Minister whose appointment he has had anything to do with is Everett—The fact speaks for itself Came home to dinner and passed the evening at home alone—
12 Being very unwell and the weather very bad Mary and myself could not go to church—We read prayers and afterwards received visits—Mr: Warren brought me your Letter I had been uneasy about your indisposition but am very happy to learn that you are recovering—I shall certainly pay him every attention in my power but in Washington is likely to be very gay in consequence of this Wedding he will have little time to spare to us—Mr: & Mrs Smith passed the evening with us and among the numerous visitors I heard the rumours of the day—one of which is that Mr: A– is to be Vice President if Mr Thompkins should be elected Governor of the State of New York—I have long thought that it would be a pleasant circumstance to some people to put him out of the situation he now fills as his talents are feared and his disinclination to every kind of intrigue dreaded and looked upon as a tacit and continual censure of those whose ambition sends them to adopt and persevere in such practices—. By curtailing his usefulness to the publick they propose to prevent his obtaining popularity and thus make it impossible for him to look higher. As I only hear these things from the publick I think myself authorized to write my feelings upon very freely upon the subject—I have no personal interest in I can safely declare before heaven as I have seen too much of publick not to value it for what it is worth—I think however I know my husbands character and the conviction that his habits and tastes are formed beyond the possibility of change and I fear that he could not live long out of an active sphere of publick life and that it is absolutely essential to his existence—I have since the first year of Marriage entered upon my great honours with time and I do not recollect ever having lost them with regret—Submission to circumstances have been my doctrine and as I have heard nothing to do with the disposal of affairs and never but once been consulted I am perfectly indifferent about it—I have never seen that situation in which the pleasures and the pains the advantages and the disadvantage were not pretty equally balanced—The severest trials are gone by now and fate may do its worst—if Mr. A— could bring his mind to it, I believe the best thing he could do would be to resign his place altogether but I never should dare to give him such advice or take upon myself the responsibility of its consequences—He certainly understands and knows best what is right and I have often found and I know not from whence it rises that my sentiments are too lofty for my Station These are subjects which I never or very rarely venture with him as he can have no better guide than his own judgment—The Collector of the Port of Alexandria died suddenly and before he was buried it is said that the P. had one hundred applications!


Title: From John Adams to George Washington Adams, 13 March 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, George Washington

My Dear George.
Montezillo March 13th 1820.

If you have a desire of a long life and a happy life I advise you to read Cicero. Your Father has expressed sufficient admiration of his office and his other writings but I wish at this time to recommend to you particular his treatise on Friendship. his dream of Scipio his letter to his brother Quintus about to take upon him for the third time the Government of Asia, and above all his treatise on old age. If you can read these writings with attention and not love your friends, your country, your species, the Universe you inhabit, and without adoring that eternal wisdom, power and benevolence which produced it better than you ever did before you must have no soul. It is enough to make men as old as your Grandfather, and as Cato the elder was when he held the Dialogue with Scipio and Lelius bless there existence, and make them cry out as Cato did “Si quis Deus mihi largiatur ut ex hac ætate repuerescam et in cunis vagiam valde recusem.” and in another place “Oh præclarum diem quum ad illud divinum animorum concilium cœtumque proficiscar. quum ex hac turba et colluvione discedam; proficiscar enim non ad cos solum viros de quibus ante dixi sed etiam ad Catonem meum quo nemo vir melior natus est nemo pietate præstantior” does this exclamation fall short of that of St Paul “Oh Death where is thy sting.” If you mean or wish to live to old age, impress your mind with the sentiments of Cato Major in your youth.
I am your affectionate Grandfather.
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 13 March 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

My Dear Daughter
Montezillo 13th March 1820.

If Nature in scattering her bounties had bestowed upon me the genius of a Poet or a Painter I would entertain you with a description of a scene of sublimity, beauty, and novelty, such as eighty four winters never before presented to my sight: when I arose in the morning, the Sun was rising, the heavens were not of Brass but the Sky was a vast concave of clear blue marble and the earth was of burnished silver and the trees bending under the weight of millions of millions of Diamonds. the splendor and glory of the scene was too dazzling for mortal eyes to behold for any long time. A violent rain had descended warm and liquid from a height in the atmosphere into the region below. then as cold as Russia, every drop had frozen as it fell, and clung to the trees, and then descending in icicles hung upon every bough and sprig. So much for the bright side of the picture; now, for the dark side the trees every where bending under the immense load of ice which encumbered them; the trunks in some places splitting; the limbs every where breaking and falling; the elms, the button wood’s, the balm of Gilead’s, stript of many of their branches; the fruit trees, the shrubbery’s, especially the evergreens, very much injured. in short, the havoc and destruction is estimated by many to be greater than in either of the two great storms which have spread such desolation within fifteen years past.
Now for a little Politics. We hope that the tempest is over in Washington and that the swell (now the winds have ceased to blow,) will not be very terrible. we are here all very well and much the better for having our two sons of Harvard with us, one of whom is now writing this letter for his Grand father and your / affectionate Father.

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 14 March 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

14-22 March 1820

14 March—The day was tremendous I therefore did not attempt to go out but dressed to Receive any company altho’ I did not expect any one would venture out on such an evening at eight oclock however as the company began to come and we had to my great astonishment five & twenty persons among whom were Mr: Dowse a Member of Congress related to Mr: Quincy and Mr: Warren—two ladies from New York and Mrs: Tucker of Virginia with her husband—I sang the greater part of the evening as I really did not know how to entertain so small a party—They all went home early—The News from Europe seemed to engross the Gentlemen very much particularly the Spanish News which are highly important there is nothing from our Minister who is to be still at Madrid his family are very much alarmed and his poor wife sinking under the mortification which his conduct in Spain has occasioned—. It is said Congress have requested his recall—The Spanish Chargé was here much alarmed for his King and Country—As to the King I do not think they could change for the worse—
15 Took Tea at Mrs: Smiths and returned home at ten oclock Received several morning visits—Congress it is said will not adjourn until May—Mr: Dowse called on me and sat chatting a short time—We talked mostly of Europe—Mr: A— desires me to ask you if you have a silver Seal belonging to his Mother which had the Arms of his Mother engraved on it—He is anxious to have it Copied—if you can send it to him.
16 Had a large company to dine consisting of Mr: Burrill & Mr: Ruggles Senators Mr: Rodgers Mr: Southward Mr: Brown Mr: Crawford Mr: Upham Mr: Eddy Mr: Russ Mr: Walker Mr: Kinsley Dr: Jones Mr: Adams Members of the House with Mr Warren Mr: Todd Mr: Labouchere Capt McDonough Capt Wolcot Chauncey of the Navy & Mr: Frye—I had much talk with Mr: Burrill and Mr: Ruggles who sat on each side of me and after dinner with Mr: Adams who told me he was originally from Braintree but now resided at Uxbridge—That he was a descendant from the same family but we were very distantly connected—I also conversed with Mr: Walker a very backwoodsman from North Carolina the greatest oddity I ever saw—I was engaged to a party but my Coachman was very sick and we Remained at home—
17 The day being lovely and my Coachman still sick I walked over to Mrs. Calhouns to offer to assist in Nursing her Child—The old Lady came down to me and told me she thought the child was going fast but if she should linger she would let me know and gladly accept my offer—It is the first time I have seen the old Lady she is a very fine old Woman and I was much pleased with the cordiality of here manners—Sat some time with Mrs: Smith and heard the news of the day—
18 Went fishing with Charles we caught twelve cat fish between us—in the evening went to Mrs: Calhouns with an intention to sit up but they had so many friends they would not accept my services therefore returned home—Mrs: C— in very good spirits
19 Went to Church and heard a very good Sermon from St Mark 9 chapter 28 verse it was a very good sermon—Made a visit to Mrs: Colevin and saw her husband for the first time he asked me some strange questions concerning Mr: A— and appeared to be a little elevated—
20 Our City was put literally into a state of consternation at the news of the assassination of the Duke de Berry In such an event there is nothing very remarkable but it was attended with circumstances so interesting it could not fail to shock every feeling mind—It is one of those events which will probably have great perhaps fatal consequences to the Country as it will be made a handle for Political purposes which may occasion a total and complete bouleversement throughout the Nation & give an opportunity to the Ultra’s of gratifying their long unquenched thirst for vengeance—The state of Europe is appalling and the volcano which now rumbles so loudly when it bursts must produce a tremendous & overwhelming shock
21 Went out to see Mr: de Neuville whom I found in great affliction in consequence of the news. Paid several visits & invited some young Ladies to meet Mrs: Gouverneur in the evening as I intended they should dance—We had a small and gay party and they staid with us until 11 oclock
22 Remained at home in consequence of a headache when Mr: Smith and Mr: Forbes came in with the shocking news of Com Decaturs being mortally wounded in a Duel with Com Baron—My blood Ran cold as I heard it and Mr: A— immediately went off to see him and offer every assistance in his power I followed and when I got there was informed that there were faint hopes of his life—The whole Town was in a state of agitation & a great part of the day his door was crowded with people waiting the sad event—He expired at eight oclock last evening to the grief of the whole Nation who will long mourn the loss of a favourite Hero whose amiable qualities as a private Citizen intitled him to the esteem of all whose esteem & friendship were worth possessing—His style of living has excited some envy in narrow minded people for such there are & such there ever will be Incapable of such exertions as will promote their own interests & envious of all who rise to eminence they gratify their spleen by the basest calumnies—Com Baron is slightly wounded—He is a miserable man whose services it seems have been rejected by the Government as he supposes at the instigation of poor Decatur who did not deny the charge—What this has gained by destroying a fellow creature with a view to patch a broken reputation I cannot understand but this I am sure of were I in his situation where my pillow had been strewn with one thorn—I should not find a million to aggravate my former sorrows—The shock to his poor wife was dreadful beyond measure. She breakfasted with him in good health and spirits and eight oclock and at ten he was brought back mortally wounded only to languish a few short space & then to sink I trust to everlasting rest—Oh what an agonizing scene—What irreparable mischief in a few short hours—The very thought makes me shudder and we dare not look in to futurity—The President was deeply interested & went to see him several times—He was wounded in the side and the Ball went through his body and was extracted just above the Hip—It was remarked that the wound did not bleed it was hoped that extracting the Ball might produce good consequences—He was speechless many hours after the operation—


Title: From John Adams to John Adams Smith, 15 March 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Smith, John Adams

My dear Grand Son—
Montezillo March 15th. 1820

I have received with great pleasure your letter of the 15th. december—and am deeply affected with the information you give me—for all though Great Britain has not been a nursing Mother to my Country—I cannot but feel for her dangers—and Calamities—The five Bills you mention are medicines for the extremity of the disease—but I fear they will not cure, if they do not kill—but this is a subject on which I dare not write, or even think—
The Ladies doctrine to the Scotch Lord has been the Commanding principle in all ages and Nations of the world and the consequence of it has been, such Religion and Government which have prevailed all over the Globe—even our North American Indians—will not suffer their Common People to scrutinize the Secrets of their beloved families—and their Nations traditions are confined to a few Prophets and  the experiment must now be tried of a general dissemination of knowledge through all ranks & Classes of People—the press can no longer be suppressed or wholly restrained by Ecclesiastical or Political Power— No holy league can now controle it—but let me pass to a more agreeable part of your letter.—
I am very glad to find that you are more in love with yourself—have more esteem of your-self and are more desirous of a long life—than you say you had been formerly—I have been reading over again Ciciro De amicitia and de senectute though I have read these morsels for almost 70 years—every time I have read them I have been more pleased with them—And this last reading has been the most delightful of all—It is impossible for a Man in his senses and his right mind to read these divine Sentiments without gratitude for Life—and a wish for a long one—you cannot read the harmony of Lelieus and of Cato without rapture—I am a Little older than Cato was when he discoursed so divinely to Scipio and Lelius—and I can say with truth him—“si quis deus mihi largiatur, ut ex hac ætate repuerascam, & in cunis vagium, valde recusem;” and again “O præclarum diem, quam ad illud divinum anirmorum concilium  cœtumque proficiscar, quumque ex hac turba & colluvione discedam! proficiscar enim non ad eos solum viros, de quibus ante dixi; sed etiam ad Cantonem meum, quo nemo vir melior natus est, nemo pietate præstantior
Add my most affectionate regards to Mr & Mrs Rush / and am your affectionate Grand father
John Adams


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 19 March 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					My Dear John
					Washington 19h March 1820

				I have just received your Letter and am very much pleased to find you all in such good spirits Why George should have roared so at the idea of your fathers dancing I do not know—but he is not the only one so affected for Mr. Walker of the Senate I thought would have fallen on the floor—Washington is becoming quite dull notwithstanding our wedding we are however to have dancing on Tuesday and Mrs. Van Ness gives a ball on Thursday in honour of the nuptials, her daughter having been brides Maid on the occasion—I have not heard of any other parties yet—We have some new acquisitions to our society the Miss Douglasses and the Miss Gouverneur’s great fortunes and all pretty Girls You would be much pleased with Maria Douglass she is so truly unaffected—We have nothing new here and it is supposed that Congress will shortly adjourn when we shall sink into our old and uniform dullness—but I shall remain as usual your affectionate Mother

					L. C. A—

					Cherry has not got a Calf yet—But Moolly has a superb one—
				Charles says you must write to him—How is your Grand father?


Title: From Henrietta de Neuville to John Quincy Adams, 21 March 1820
From: Neuville, Henrietta de
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Washington Le 21 Mars 1820

				L’Envoyé Extraordinaire & Ministre Plenipotentiare de Sa Majesté bièn Chretienne, & Madame De Neuville ont l’honneur d’inviter l’honorable Monsieur Adams et Madame Adams à assister au Service Solennel qui aura lieu dan l’Eglise de St Patrick le 24 de ce mois à 10 heures du matin pour le repos de L’amede S. A. R Monseigneur Le Duc de Berri Fils de France.


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 23 March 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					23 March—1 April 1820

				23 March—Our City is more and more deeply unwell of fears and gloom and every moment seems to teem with more troubles—A hundred different stories are in circulation concerning this dreadful affair and I am told that his Wife has not seen him since the night before the Duel took place as  instead of breakfasting at home he stopped at the Congress Hotel and there ate an unusually hearty meal which the Surgeons say was very much against his Recovery—Mr: A– was annimated to have some law passed with a view to check this fatal practice, but the people of our Country still seem to possess a little of their aboriginal barbarism and I fear he will have few supporters more especially as more Chief Magistrates seem to approve the spirit—In the Army there  is a regulation, which it is said, has been of actual service as few chuse to risk the forfeiture of place—Surely the same Rule might be prudently  adopted in the Navy—At least, it would be worth the trial—It was Reported currenttly all day that two more were gone to fight yesterday in consequence of some strong expressions used on the field when Decatur fell and we are still in a state of anxiety more especially as Bainbridge is said to be one of the parties concerned—Had attended the funeral of Mr: Calhouns child at four oclock and I spent the evening at home, Mr: & Mrs: Smith came in and spent two hours with us—24 There was a great funeral ceremony at the Catholick Church to pray for the Soul of the Duke de Berry—The ceremony is grand & imposing and there is something very solemn in the musical part of the performance—The Church was crowded and the heat was massive. We had a very good sermon in which the preacher seemed to confine himself very much to show the necessity of Religion for without it we should hear of nothing but assassinations and crimes of every sort and the world must soon cease to exist as man infuriated by passion and unrestrained by Religion must  soon come to destruction—He said but little concerning the character of the Duke, and on the whole succeeded very well in the difficult task which he had to perform—Our gaity is indeed turned to mourning and it is impossible to imagine a greater contrast in so short a time—It is said that Baron’s wound had taken an unfavourable turn and they apprehend a lockjaw—In the afternoon went to Decaturs funeral which was attended by the Heads of Department, the Senate & House of Representatives the Officers of the Navy and Army and a number of the most respectable Citizens of the District—This parade did not appear to me suitable to the occasion and I thought the Government was sanctioning a practice which should if possible be discountenanced—They could do a little more for an officer when falling in the Service of his Country—Surely this man threw his life away & his example ought to be held up as a warning to others that they may avoid his fate I was so fatigued I retired to bed at eight oclock a few minutes after which they came and announced Mr: Sergeant who was come to pass the evening—He staid with Mr: A– until ten oclock.25 Went fishing with Charles and returned to dine after which went into George Town to pay a visit on business called to inquire concerning Mrs: Decatur who still continues in a bad way—Received very unpleasant news from my Sister Harriet She was in the greatest distress her Husband having been arrested  for debts—26 Charles was suddenly siezed with a violent fever immediately after returning from Church which greatly alarmed both Mr: A– & myself We sent immediately for a Physician who told us that his illness was one of great suffering  but he did not think dangerous—As however the symtoms were highly inflamatory I could not command my apprehension and his father was quite digested—27 Passed the night with Charles his fever ran very high and he was  quite delirious—. The Physician came to see him, and gave him large quantities of Antimonial Wine which did not however produce the desired effect—Evening fever very high heard of the loss of Quaker another melancholy event by which our Navy has suffered greatly—28 Passed the night with Charles—fever still very high and rambled very much—When the Physician came he ordered Leaches but there were none to be procured—He continued very ill all day—In the evening I was obliged to receive my company which fortunately consisted of four Gentlemen only—I soon left them it being impossible for me to support the anxiety I was under about my boy while absent from him—When I entered his Room I found him asleep but with a very high fever & extremely restless—29 Was much exhausted when the morning arrived having watched two nights and tho’ I slept in the course of the last my sleep was so continually broken that it had done me more harm than good Charles still continued very ill and the Doctor bled him as soon as he arrived which appeared to relieve him. In the afternoon he paid a second visit as he had already done yesterday and for the first time found the symtoms more favourable still adhering however to the medicine and desiring him to be kept perfectly quiet.—Mr: Smith offered very kindly to sit up with him which I accepted—30 Company at dinner 20 people did not dine at table Got up much refreshed by my nights sleep and found Charles much better having passed a tolerable night—His spirits begin to mend also and as is usual  his patience which has been hitherto very great is much diminished since he begins to be convalescent—Mr & Mrs. Smith passed the evening here—There are strange stories about concerning Mr. C Pinkney of S. C. who has made himself very ridiculous by some disgraceful conduct for which he is ashamed to show himself in Congress.  John Randolph gives rise to all the jests and jibes which take place in Washington and his reputation seems to hang entirely now upon the anticks he daily performs for the amusement of the publick He is going to Europe—He recently dined at the Presidents where he had a silver Fork—Since which he has declared that he never will give his vote for any man as President of the United States who uses his Fork with his right hand or uses a Silver Fork with four prongs—This will serve us a specimen of the poor fellows state of mind—Mr. Kerrs son was struck with a brick bat by a boy which has perforated his scull he is however out of danger—April 1 I am so entirely confined by attendance on Charles that I have little or no news. Mrs. Decatur is going to Anapolis. He has left her a handsome property—


Title: From John C. Calhoun to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 27 March 1820
From: Calhoun, John C.
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					27th March 1820.

				Mr. Calhoun’s best respects to Mrs. Adams, and he is happy to state, that on an examination of the case of Mr Boyd, he found he could with propriety make the allowance to him, which she desired. The 2d Auditor has been directed to Allow his Salary from the 1st Decr. 1819. Mrs Boyd letter is herewith returned


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Ward Nicholas Boylston, 29 March 1820
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Boylston, Ward Nicholas

					Dear Sir
					Washington 29 March 1820

				I have received your very obliging favour of the 15th. inst and also the box; containing the bottles of raspberry Cordial, for which Mrs. Adams joins with me in requesting your and Mrs Boylston’s acceptance of our best thanks. We regretted exceedingly that the shortness of the time which we were absent from this place last Year deprived us of the gratification which we had anticipated from your kind invitation to visit you at Princeton—We hope however that it was only a pleasure deferred, and that we shall be more fortunate the ensuing Season. I am sorry to have lost the benefit of the long Letter, which you had written me, and then forbore to send—Were my engagements more numerous, and urgent than they are, I could never want time to enjoy the satisfaction of receiving a friendly Communication from you.Accept also my grateful acknowledgment for your frequent kindnesses to my Sons—The Youngest of whom now with us has been for some days confined by illness We hope he is upon the recovery—I am, with Mrs Adams’s and my own kindest regards to Mrs. Boylston, Dear Sir your faithful and obliged friend—


Title: From John Adams to George Washington Adams, 3 April 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, George Washington,Adams, John

dear George & John
Montezillo April 3d. 1820

If you can obtain leave of absence I wish for the pleasure of your Company here on the twelfth of the month—and I wish you to present my Compliments to the President, and Tutors whose consent is requisite, and ask the favour of them
There is not any topick of Conversation here, but the horrours of duelling—and Mail Robbers, we do not meddle with politicks—
love to John—and am affectionately / your Grandfather
John Adams


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 7 April 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					My dear John
					Washington 7 April 1820

				Your father has requested me to answer your Letter and to inform you that the Hume has already been given to Charles who finished it some time since but he desires me to say that he will give you one of the same if he can procure it or any other book which you may prefer to reward your diligence It therefore depends on you to name what book you wish and he will purchase it. He is doubtful if such an Edition of Hume can be had in this Country—Charles has had a bad fit of sickness and is not yet out of his room—I have therefore been entirely confined and can tell you no news excepting that our gaiety is quite over and that I am so tired I shall not be sorry when Congress has adjourned—I have been much amused by a Letter of your Grandfather published in the Papers where he gives the American a complete lashing in a very conxise and jocose way—I believe it will nettle the Author completely which he merits most devoutly—There has been nothing done in Congress worth noticing excepting Mr Clay’s resolution’s concerning Biddle’s Sword—We are a little apprehensive that there is something in the Atmosphere which produces a singular effect upon the brain and some think it would not be a bad plan to found a hospital for the express use of Members who to use a vulgar expression act as if they were a little beside themselves when they might at least be dieted for a short time and reduced to a state of composure—Adieu, my Dear Son—George is so buried in Socratic lore I dare not address him so as to disturb his philosophical contemplations you must therefore give my love to him and my best wishes for his complete success—remember me to Colvert and Taylor and ever believe me most affectionately your Mother

					L. C. A—

					The great Caucus is to be tomorrow evening—


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 16 April 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					16 April—3 May 1820

				16 April—Went to Church at the Capital not full at all. Afterwards paid some visits—The remainder of the day at home—17 No occurrence of importance—paid some visits and passed the day at home—Mr: A– dined at Mr: Politeca’s the Russian Ministers—the dinner given to Gen Vines the new Spanish Minister—much curiosity and anxiety    expressed concerning the Negotiation18 Went out in quest of company for the evening but called only on a few—In the evening company very full as many  wished to see the Spanish Minister—The members  to sound how matters stood. Some of them are foolish enough to question me on the subject19 Went out to pay visits as usual and called at the Presidents to know if there was to be a drawing Room it being the day in course—Was informed that  Mrs: Monroe was sick and that there would  Returned and passed the evening at home20 All the Corps Diplomatique to dine with us much troubled to get any thing to eat—As the dinner was given to Genl: Vines he handed me to table—our company every very sociable, & we had an agreeable dinner—They left us early on account of a Ball at Mrs: Browns—21 At home all day the weather being oppressively hot—Nothing but much murmuring about the duration of the Session—The Members becoming nore ill natured than ever—22—At home all the morning—In the evening went to Madame de Neuville alone Mr: A– being much engaged—The party was large and I there met a number of Strangers—Mr: & Mrs: Thompson of New York Gen Van Rensselaer the Patroon & Mr: Gracie with Mr: & Mrs: Prince with their Son daughter and niece—They were all especially introduced to me and I invited them to Tea on Tuesday—I returned very early it being insufferably warm—Did not escape questions on the Spanish Affair altho’ I never care about it as my ignorance affords perfect security against blunders—Was introduced to the Miss Wrights—23 Went to Church and heard Dr: Allison the most miserable preacher I ever listened to—In the evening went over to Mrs: Smith to Tea24 Mr: A– dined at Mr: Antrobus’s and afterwards passed the evening at Mr: Lee’s—I did not go—Received visits from Mrs: & the Miss Fannings English Ladies—the Miss Wrights Scotish Ladies one of whom is an authoress who has published a Tragedy called Altorf—Mr: & Mrs: Prince &c invited them for tomorrow evening25 My company as usual—It was very crowded and all the Strangers whom I had invited honoured me with their company Our parties break up so early it is scarcely worthwhile to light up the Rooms—Had some conversation with Miss Wright she is remarkably tall not handsome but has an intelligent and expressive countenance—when animated she has a good deal of motion and appears to have a cultivated & powerful mind—The gentlemen all agree on this point and they are good judges—It seems a little singular however and partakes a little too much of the lofty independence of Mrs: de Stael’s Commerce to see two  young Ladies the oldest not three and twenty crossing the Ocean and travelling perfectly unattended in a foreign Country—But these I suppose are old and Vulgar prejudices not at all calculated for these enlightened times so I wonder and admire—26 Went to a party at Dr: Thorntons where I again met nearly the same company with the exception of Mrs: Fanning a very respectable looking old Lady whose health is too delicate to admit of her going out very frequently her daughters are fine fashionable very English Women well educated and I suppose accomplished by the style of their conversation—Their father it is said was Governor of North Carolina prior to the Revolution, and they have come to this Country to visit their relations—they are now on their way to Canada from thence they return to Europe—27—A large party of Senators and Members to dine this I hope will be the last dinner party as it is scarcely possible to get provisions The party consisted of Gov Dickerson, Mr: Walker of G–a, & Mr: Logan Senators Mr Ford, Mr: Allen, Mr: Hall, Mr: Reid, Mr: Garnett, Mr Barbour Judge Nelson, Mr: Clark, Mr: Holmes Mr: Sawyer of the House, Commodore Morris and Mr: Bailey made up the company we were disappointed of eight persons—We heard a number of anecdotes concerning John Randolph all proving beyond doubt that he is only fit to become the tenant of a mad–house—The Gentlemen were engaged to a Tea party at the Presidents given by Mrs: Hay to the English Ladies therefore went away early—Congress is again in a flame about the Tariff—all the ill blood made during the Missouri Debate seems to be again put into motion—and they look excessively sour—28 Went to see Mrs: Harrison Smith who lives about four miles and a half from the City—The Country looks most beautiful, the flowers are all in bloom as if we were now in the month of June—The weather became suddenly very cold and Fever siezed with the Eresypelas so violently I was obliged to go to bed quite sick immediately after dinner—29 Confined to bed all day the Doctor says it is Rheumatic gout—Mrs: Smith came and sat with me in the evening—We were much shocked to hear of the death of Mr: Clarkson—30 Still continued quite unwell came down to dinnerMay 1—At home all day being still quite unwell, Mr A– so immersed in the Spanish business that he can scarcely give himself time to eat drink or sleep—2 My Tuesday Party—It was thinly attended heard that Mrs: de Wint intended visiting Washington and  had a Room prepared for her—Congress will soon adjourn and it is probable I shall not have more than one more; Mrs Monroe so ill there are to be no more Drawing Rooms—3 Went out early on a fishing party and had fine sport we remained till quite late but found Mr: A– as usual lost in Spanish reveries The Children took their Drawing as usual, I wish this business was finished for he grows very thin and his mind is kept upon the task night and day


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 20 April 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					Washington 20 April 1820

				Your Letter my Dear Charles would cause me considerable uneasiness did I not know that you have the power of remedying largely the evils of which you complaint and that all you want is to exert that portion of resolution or will (which you Amply possess upon most points) to buckle too seriously and earnestly to your studies without suffering your most more pleasing avocations to draw you from your positive duties—remember my Dear Son that weakness and want of stability in the character of       a man is an odious defect which necessarily deprives him of the respect of all who by nature and circumstances ought to look and be assured that habits are easier to acquire than to break—You have lived long enough with your father to be aware  of the great importance of regularity and method and have often remarked how much may be atchieved by real application in a given time—Let me therefore entreat you to keep up both  your spirits and courage and to devote your time making it short provided you determine to lend your whole thoughts to the object before you and you will soon find your studies less irksome and more easy than you at present imagine—without toil you are perfectly aware that nothing can be attained and even reading which now affords you so much pleasure was acquired by close and incessant application—Independent of my strong affection for you, you must allow me to say that my pride would be deeply wounded by any failure on your part as you have been the one of my Children who have lived the most with me and I should be accused as the principal cause of your ill success—Of your powers I have no doubt of your application I have many fears but I am so confident of your affection I will not doubt that time and real labour will conquer all difficulties you must expect that the President must wait to be assurd that your studies are constant and his approbation tho’ slow to appear will be sure. Go on therefore and you cannot fail—


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 27 April 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

my dear daughter—
Montezillo April 27th. 1820—

I have received your Journal to the 22d March—and have read them with so much delight—that I long to receive those that are to come as far as the present day—
Before I proceed to any other topic, I here comply with Mr Adams request—and inclose the Seal of his Mothers Arms—By the Greyhound for the Crest—and the Birds, I conclude her ancesters were Country squires and Sportsmen—whether the birds are Wood-Cocks, Snipes, Plovers, Grouse, Yellow-legs, Martins, Pigeons, Quails, Partridges or Turtle Doves, I know not—but the Volume which contains a collection of all the arms; I suppose explains these great Mysteries—
I have no news of a private nature except the death of Sir John Wentworth—my friend of 70 years standing—I have but one Classmate left alive—and that is the Honble. David Sewall of York—In spite of Political and National Alienations which I find do not reach the heart—I feel the death of Wentworth—as I should a Brother.
I am impatient to read your remarks upon the news from Spain which lead us to believe, I hope not fallaciously, a great revolution in that Kingdom; the fanaticism and the despotism of that Peninsula has been the disgrace of human Nature for so long a time that I feel uncommon exultation at the hope of seeing it demolished and obliterated—What effect will this news have upon the negotiations at Washington—what do you think of the occurrences in france—are they seriously disposed to revive the letters de cachet and rebuild the Bastile
Have you seen the Translation of De Pradt by your friend and fellow passenger Mr Otis—It is a useful and curious Book, I rejoice in the recovery of my dear Charles’s—and hope you will bring with you in your Visit to Montezillo—which must be as soon as possible after the rising of Congress—
So prays your affectionate Father
John Adams


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 1 May 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					My Dear John
					Washington 1 May 1820

				I have been very unwell and likewise waiting for some answer from your father concerning the books you asked and I have the pleasure to tell you that your father agrees to your demand and will give you the british Theatre—You have apparently forgotten all the Commissions with which you were charged as I have neither heard nor seen any thing of Charles’s Books or the Shells which you promised to send in lieu of those you drank up during your visit—I will thank you to think of them as soon as you can and send them on thro’ the medium of Mr. Cruft—We are none of us well here in consequence of the great heat and your brother has not yet recovered his illness so as to go to school—Give my love to George and tell him I am a little suspicious that his frequent indispositions are the result of imprudence and that he has adopted the rule his Uncle Smith gave him. I shall say nothing upon the subject more than this that in trying he will perhaps be more sure of finding a remedy in the smart it inflicts than in any other way or by any advice which I can give bitter experience is the only lesson which can make any impression on some minds and I fear his mind is of that description and must be attended with much pain and suffering in the purchase—I hope however that his prospects in life may not be as much affected as those of his counsellor and as severely punished—Give my love to him and beware of the same rock from which were it possible you should both be saved by your anxiously affectionate Mother

					L. C. Adams.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to John Adams Smith, 3 May 1820
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Smith, John Adams

					Washington 3d May 1820

				This Letter is to introduce to your acquaintance and to recommend to your kind attentions and good offices  Dr. Charles Williamson of Milledgeville, a highly respectable Citizen of Georgia and a particular friend of Mr. Walker one of the Senators in Congress from that State—At his desire I am happy to have the opportunity of making Dr. Williamson known to  those of my friends who may possess the means of being serviceable to him or of rendering the extensive tour which he contemplates making in Europe agreeable to him. With this view I shall consider any kindness which you may have it in your power to show him as a manifestation of your friendship for me—I avail myself of this occasion to acknowledge the receipt of three numbers of your new series of Letters the continuance of which I earnestly solicit—We have been much amused with the caricatures. I have also your Letter extra of the third of March with the Sovereign enclosure to square accounts. Your Brother was is well and we are daily expecting Mrs. & Mr. de Wint here—I am with affectionate regard & esteem Dear Sir faithfully yours


Title: From John Adams to Ward Nicholas Boylston, 6 May 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Boylston, Ward Nicholas

dear Cousin
Montezillo May 6th. 1820

The Emperiour of China quoted the precept of Confucius, give much, and take but little—but you have adopted another maxim, give much, and take nothing—for I have nothing to give—but I am too proud to receive so much with all the gratitude that is due without returning any-thing—Here is a Box of Cegars which I have not dared to open though I suppose they are as odoriferous as an incensoir of a Knight of Malta—
Before this you are happy at Princetown I presume I congratulate you on the felicity of your rural Situation—you are exalted to the Clouds in point of Privilege—I wish I were with you on the top of Waychusetts Hill from whence I could see Montezillo—from whence I can see, when I please—your Monticello—I had entertained some faint hopes of stealing a March upon you at Jamaica Plains—but alass this is now out of the question—
I hope you are not as cold and dry as we are here, in these little Hills and humble Valleys—never did I know so sharp a drought in the first Week in May—the Springs are dried up—
Since I saw you I have lost my Ancient friend Sir John Wentworth—and now remain alone with Righteous Judge Sewall of York—
This Week I have lost an Ancient Enemy in Benjamin Austin—God forgive his Multiplied Libels upon me, and others—and his long continued Machiavilian principals and practices—as from my heart I do—the lowest and the meanest of the people were to him an infallible guide and Soverign Pontif from his early youth to his Old Age—I could never pin my faith upon such Sleeves—any more than upon the Knights Templars—the Knights of St John of Jerusalem—the knights of Malta or the Cavillers of Ignatious Loyola—
The Blossoms upon the plumb and Cherry are just opening but not a bud of any-other kind exhibites a Colour—I wish you a delightful Summer—and that your Mountain Air has perfectly restored Mrs Boylstons Health—to whom my most Cordial respects—and to yourself—together with the best thanks of your affectionate / Frend & Cousin

John AdamsLouisa and Mrs Clark unite in remembrance to Mrs Boylston.


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 8 May 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

my dear daughter
Montezillo May 8th. 1820

I have received your journal to the 17th. April, which like all your other journals has afforded me a delicious entertainment though they contain so many lamentable historys Decaturs fall is an awfull event if their is anything awfull in this lower World—
I have read Ivanhoe and there is nothing more awfull in that—my Taste Coincides with yours in this instance entirely—the divine Rebecca far exceedes Clarissa Harlow—it is the most exalted female character that I have ever read—and the manners of that age are painted to the life—Dr Johnson I suppose had so much Reverence for holy Church that he could justify—or at least excuse the conduct of the temporal and Spiritual Cavaliers which is here painted to life—though infidelity appears to have been at the bottom of the hearts of them all—though under the disguise of an ostentatious fanaticism the Knights of St John of jerusalem—the Knights of the holy Sepulchre—the knights of the holy Temple of Zion and the jesuitical knights of St Ignatius Loyola—were all alike machiavellian unprincipled politicians founded in blind ambition disguised under deep vails of hypocrisy and fanaticism—
The World falls to pieces round about me—my friends and my Enemies disappear—and my turn nee me tuo nee opto—I live in cheering hopes of a visit from yourself—your husband—and your Son—please to tell your Brother Smith that if your husband will consent he shall have the Pictures of his Father & Mother—with my kind regards—tell the Secretary of State—his Barn looks stately enough to correspond with his Office— / and believe me your affectionate / Father—
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 13 May 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					13-21 May 1820

				13 Went out to the Capitol to see the Senate with the Ladies after which we visited the Library and took another view of Trumbulls picture—This performed we next went to the Navy Yard—examined the famous Monument—took a look at the Frigate now on the Stocks and after gazing until we were satisfied returned home to dine—In the evening we all went to the French Ministers and passed a charming evening—It was the last to be given before their departure for France which is to take place in a few days We all regret excessively the idea of their quitting the Country but I have already said much on this subject—The situation of France is such and his party feelings are so strong I doubt if this is exactly the prudent moment for his return—More especially as I doubt if his mind is capable of resisting the entreaties and struggles of his ultra friends—He is at present a singular compound more than half what we call republican here with a large stock of old emigré prejudices which are perpetually clashing with his habits and his secret inclinations strictly well meaning but easily misled—Mr: A– played chess and did not get home until very late—14—Went to Church there was no service at the Capitol we therefore went on to the Navy Yard and heard a very good Sermon from Mr: McCormick—Mr: & Mrs: Smith dined with us and a Mr Read an old acquaintance of Mr: A’s passed the evening with us—We had much conversation on Agriculture and Manufactures which has been one of the topics of the day and productive of some uneasiness— 15 Went to visit my Sister Frye but was not so fortunate as to find her at home—Returned home and received visits Mrs: & Miss Bulfinch and Mrs & Miss Dickinson In the evening went to Col Tayloe’s accompanied by the Ladies and Mr: de Wint—The party was small but agreeable Harriet Welsh met there Mr: & Mrs W Paine of Boston—The Speaker resigned his seat in the House as Speaker intending to quit Congress altogether in consequence of the embarrassment of his Affairs—He is going home to practice Law unless his partizans can succeed in their endeavours to make him Vice President which is talked of even at the expense of Tomkins spite of his failure in New York—His speech was short and handsome and the failure of the Spanish Treaty has brought him into vogue and he leaves the house with some eclat—Mr: de Wint is much delighted with him and indeed he is generally considered the most popular and best Speaker we had—The Members have nearly all gone away but they are to favour us with their company again three weeks earlier than we expected—It is to be hoped the next Session will be calmer & more usefully  passed—16 We rose this morning intending to go to Mount Vernon but Mr: de Wint was so unwell we were obliged to defer our visits—Mrs: Bulfinch and her daughter called to see the Ladies—In the evening Harriet and I went to see to Mrs: Frye who we found quite well and comfortable—The family were all gone to bed when we returned17 I was so unwell that I declined being of the party to Mount Vernon as the day was cold, and boisterous and I found on descending to breakfast that the weather had frightened the Ladies from undertaking the excursion—As Mrs: De Wint appeared anxious to see Mrs: Frye I proposed to visit Mr: Adams Office and see what was to be seen in the Department and then to call on Mrs: Frye which they agreed to and we had the pleasure of examining every thing various that was offered to our inspection—Such as the sword which called forth Mr: Clay’s famous Resolutions and the Snuff Box presented by Alexander to Mr: Harris—The Treaties and even the Declaration of Independance—All of which were interesting and important—Our visit to Mrs: Frye was short and we returned to dine at home. Mr: de Wint was so much better that he decided to have us in the morning and, in the evening the Ladies were busied in making their preparations. I was so unwell I was obliged to leave them and go to bed.—18 The weather was very dull and somewhat cold, but the party went off in the six oclock Stage—I had intended breakfasting with and was much surprized to find them gone. Mr: Smith had persuaded them to give up the plan of going in a Hack in consequence of which I could not accompany them to Bladensburg as I had intended. We Remained quietly at home all day.19 In consequence of my Coachman being busily employed all day in seeking a Stray Horse I was confined to the House—. I Read Anastasius and on the whole it appears to me to be a very disgusting production. I think it a bad book but there is little attraction in the character and the   extreme levity with which it is written is calculated on the whole to disgust the generality of readers; this perhaps may in some measure avert its pernicious tendency I cannot think it was written by Lord Byron20 Passed the day at Mrs: Fryes met there Capt Vance a gentleman from Cincinnati—The weather continues very cold and altogether remarkable for the Season—Dispatches were received from Europe and it is said new instructions to Genl Vives from the Cortes—What do you think of the situation of France now? how will things terminate there now that Lettres de Cachet are in vogue again21 It rained heavily I therefor did not go to Church Passed the day at home quietly—It is said that Mr Clay is going to remove with his family to New Orleans—As soon as Mr Adams gives me an answer about the Pictures I will let you know.With much Respect I remain your affecte.  / daughter

					L. C. A.


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 20 May 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					20 May—3 June 1820

				20 May—Mr: A— joined us at dinner and we returned home at ten oclock. Johnson Hellen dined with us he is one of the best bred young men I know of a most amiable character and disposition but of too retired a nature—21 Was quite as sick all day—In the evening Mr: A— went to sit with Mr: Morton who has been seriously ill for three or four weeks hopes are however entertained of his recovery Mr: Bailey sat with me almost half an hour being on his way to Mr: Mortons with whom he was to watch—22 Went out and paid visits a thing which I have neglected very much of late and for which I am as usual in great disgrace—passed the evening at home—Mr: A— attended the Agricultural Society at Mr: Laws where he heard a fine Speech on Manufactures—The President and all the Heads of Department were there—Mr: A— did not stay dinner23 Dined at the Rose with a violent sick head ache, which continued all day and confined me to my bed the greater part of the day after a visit which I was obliged to make on business—Mr: & Mrs: Smith called & sat some time24 Dined at the Presidents a great Diplomatic dinner given in consequence of Mr: de Neuvilles departure for France the company consisted of the foreign Corps Mr: Johnson the Senator from Louisiana Mr: Baldwin of Pennsylvania Col Morrison of Kentucky and the Heads of Department with Mrs: Calhoun and myself—Mrs: Monroes health did not admit of her making her appearance. The P. was more social than usual and uncommonly attentive to his guests who appeared flattered and satisfied returned home early being still quite unwell—25 Called on Madame de Neuville and Mr: A— went with Mr: de Neuville to present him to take leave he forgot to send the Carriage for me and Madame de Neuville was so good as to bring me home—When the Carriage returned I again went out and paid several visits and went to the Painter to look at Mr: Adams’s portrait which has been painted for Delaplaines gallery the likeness is good but disagreeable as most of the last pictures are which have been  The Artists find great difficulty in catching the expression of the mouth and instead of making it serious they make it contemptuous which is certainly not the character of his countenance at all26 Rheumatic and good for nothing all day—27 Mr: & Madame de Neuville came to take leave but I did not see them in consequence of a mistake she is in high spirits and her health which appeared to have been much shook is completely restored—I wish they may not regret having left a great and agreeable as well as safe situation—28 The Messenger has arrived with dispatches from Spain to Gen Vines and I yet hope as he seems to remain here that some amicable arrangement may yet be made with that most mean and pitiful Sovereign Ferdinand who now has his hands tied and will surely not be allowed to shuffle quite as much as he has hitherto—It will however be difficult to arrange the business at all events as it is said the Cortes cannot cede away any part of their territory by their Constition—In such a case I should think it would have been better to take it before the question was asked but I am no judge—Such a step might perhaps have caused us some trouble but Europe must be too busy at home for a time to be able to do much against us—therefore we have not much to fear—But we must patiently wait the event—The Coachman disappointed me therefor did not go to Church—Mr: A— in the evening went to the Presidents29 The President and family left Town for Loudon. The City is completely dull and there is nothing stirring whatever—went out for half an hour in the evening30 Received a visit from Mr: Johnson of Loisiana who chatted very pleasantly for an hour—He proposes to  travel  about  from place to place during the Summer—He talks very much of my Brother to whom he is very friendly. After he left me Mrs: Colvin sat with me and gave me some information but none of much importance. The Doctor also paid me a visit and I spoke to him concerning Charles whose health has never been good since his fever  He found him a little feverish and ordered some remedies much against Mr C’s inclination—We dined early and I accompanied Charles to fish as he has no companions with whom he can or will associate—Mary accompanied us and we had a very good sport—31 Charles was quite sick all day and it rained so much all day that we were obliged to remain at home—I have been reading the Monastery—I cannot say I was not amused as I think it impossible to read any of that Authors works without deriving pleasure from their perusal—but it does not altogether please me as much as some of his former productions—June 1st: Went to take Tea at Mrs: Smiths—Mr: Smith quite unwell—His health has been very indifferent for the last two years and he is generally worse in the Summer—Heard plenty of scandal threatened divorces &c now however that I shall report Our City will soon vie in this way with either of the great Cities of Europe—We returned home at ten oclock—Mr: Forbes called to take leave He is about sailing to South America in the Constellation as Agent—2 Nothing material occurred this day excepting that the weather was like winter and we were obliged to have fires—Mr: Roth the French Chargé d’Affaires came to inform us that Mr: de Neuville had Sailed from Anapolis—3 We had a Report that the Royal family in France were all imprisoned of which there is however not a word of truth—In the evening went to a party at Dr: Thorntons it was very small and tolerably stupid—We had some wretched music in which I took a part much to my shame Returned at about ten oclock with Mr: & Mrs: Smith—


Title: From Josiah, III Quincy to John Quincy Adams, 30 May 1820
From: Quincy, Josiah, III
To: Adams, John Quincy

					My dear Sir.
					Boston. 30. May. 1820.

				I have the pleasure to inform you, that at a meeting of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, holden this day, you were unanimously, elected their President.Although your probable residence, at least for some years, at a distance from Massachusetts, may possibly form an objection, in your own mind, to the appointment, yet, in fact the duties of it are little more than nominal, they can easily be done, at Washington, or on your occasional visits, and in facilitating them, so long as I sustain the office I hold, you may always rely upon my best services. I shall therefore hope confidently on having the gratification of announcing your acceptance of it—Very truly and respectfully / Yr St. &c

					Josiah Quincy Cor: Sec: A.A.S.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Josiah, III Quincy, 5 June 1820
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Quincy, Josiah, III

					Dear Sir.
					Washington 5. June 1820.

				I have received your Letter of the  30th: ulto. informing me of my having been elected President of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.Under the encouragement of your obliging promise, to supply in the discharge of the duties of this Office, the deficiencies, unavoidable, from the Circumstances of my present situation, I accept it with a grateful sense of the favour by which it has been conferred upon me.If an ardent attachment to the Arts which contribute to the comfort and elegance of life, and a deep veneration for the Sciences which adorn and dignify the human character, could alike supply the deficiencies which admit of no substitution, I should receive with unmingled pleasure this allotment of one of the highest distinctions to which virtuous ambition can aspire.I am, with great Respect, and Regard, Dear Sir, / your friend and Servant.

					John Quincy Adams.


Title: From Overton Carr to John Quincy Adams, 8 June 1820
From: Carr, Overton
To: Adams, John Quincy

					June 8, 1820

				Deed recorded August 21st. 1821.—Whereas George Boyd and James L. Edwards on or about the fourth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighteen bargained and sold assigned transferred & conveyed unto the undersigned Overton Carr all the right title interest & estate of them the said George Boyd & James L. Edwards of in & to a certain house & lot then in the occupation of said George Boyd which had been sold by John P. Vanness to the said George Boyd by certain articles of agreement dated on the thirty first day of December in the year eighteen hundred & thirteen, & which the said George Boyd afterwards sold to the said James L. Edwards, And whereas the said James L. Edwards hath since bargained sold & assigned all his right title interest and estate of in & to the said house and lot to John Quincy Adams, Secretary of State, & the trusts & conditions in the said assignment to the undersigned Overton Carr have been complied with, and the sums of money therein directed to be paid have been paid and the said James L. Edwards has directed the said Overton Carr, to convey and assign to the said John Quincy Adams, all his the said Overton Carr’s right title and interest of in and to the said house & lot to the said John Q. Adams, Now Know all men by these presents That I Overton Carr for and in consideration of the premises & also for & in consideration of the sum of one dollar current money to me in hand paid by the said John Q. Adams at or before the sealing and delivery of these presents the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge, Have granted bargained & sold assigned & conveyed & by these presents Do grant bargain & sell assign & convey unto the said John Q. Adams, his heirs and assigns all my right title interest & estate of in & to the said house & lot, under the assignment aforesaid To Have and to hold the same unto John Q. Adams his heirs and assigns; as fully as I the said Overton Carr held or could hold the same under the said assignment—In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal this eighth day of June in the year 1820.—
					Overton Carr

				Signed sealed & Delivered in presence of Joseph Forrest Saml. N. Smallwood District of Columbia County of Washington, to wit.—On this 8th. day of June AD. 1820, Overton Carr, personally appeared before the subscribers, two Justices of the peace in & for the County aforesaid, and acknowledged the above to be his act & Deed, & the estate therein mentioned, to be the property and estate of John Q. Adams—Acknowledged before.—Joseph ForrestSaml. N. Smallwood


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to George Washington Adams, 8 June 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, George Washington

					My dear George.
					Washington 8th June 1820

				It is long since I wrote you, because I thought you so busily engaged that you would have no time to answer me, and because I believe my letters are rather an incumbrance than a pleasure—I thank you very much for the Poem which you sent me; it is like all the Poetry of Rogers very beautiful, but almost too highly polished, and if I may use the expression “smells too much of the lamp”. You know my sentiments as it regards poetry already; therefore I need not say, that I prefer the bold irregularity and inequality of Dryden, to the very high finish of Rogers, which like that beauty which consists of exquisite symmetry of form and feature, is notwithstanding often eclipsed by something not half so really lovely, but infinitely more attractive—Too much polish defeats its end, and generally produces monotony or insipidity—Nature may be improved by Art, but is never so much embellished as when we closely copy her multiplied and varied   beauties and by blending gradually and if possible almost imperceptibly the high and the low, the rough, and the smooth, the brilliant and the sombre, with the grand and the softer tints, which the energy of native and cultivated genius so readily perceives and altogether   combines, to produce effect—The whole system of nature consists of inequalities, and we cannot look around us without seeing the most striking contrast.—The Mountains and the valleys, the hills and the dales, the Rivers and the brooks, the trees and the shrubs, the Lion and the mouse; &cc yet all so closely blended, and so intimately connected, as to form one great and beautiful order, far beyond our powers to conceive, utterly beyond our means to imitate—So it is in the mind of man; one is weak and sterile, another quick to in perception, slow in retention; another flighty, and another solid; and sometimes tho’ rarely we meet with those who appear to possess all these qualities combined, the vast powers of whose minds approach almost to our ideas of perfection, or at least as emanations of that divine intellect in whom we have our being. It is to this superlative something which tho’ unseen makes itself felt in such a variety of ways, that  I ever look—this something so inexpressible, so far beyond myself, and yet which I feel exists and has a being, and from which we daily see sparks elicited, where no advantage has been derived by what is called education or instruction—but I have said enough on this subject to tire you, and to bewilder myself; for on reading what I have written, I believe you will be very much puzzled to understand my meaning, and I do not know how  to make myself intelligible—After all I allow that Rogers is a very sweet Poet, and I wish I was so gifted. May You my Son possess some of those ethereal sparks of which I speak, but may that bright intelligence which rules our destinies, teach you to use it with judgement and discretion, to your own honour and to the advantage of your fellow mortals—In this wish I will conclude and in the hope of your accomplishing your present undertaking with all the success you can desire— Your Mother
					L. C Adams.

					P.S. I fear you will call this Letter Rhodomantade


Title: To John Adams from Ward Nicholas Boylston, 10 June 1820
From: Boylston, Ward Nicholas
To: Adams, John

					My Dear Cousin
					Princeton 10th June 1820

				Your ever welcome & kind Letter of the 6th. Ultimo, did not reach me untill the 20th. since then my eyes has denied me the pleasure of acknowledeing it.What you quote as the precept of Confucius, does not apply in that Instance, to me, for I have always rec’d more gratification from you than I am able to return—and you are not able to estimate the value I put upon your kindness to judge how much I feel your debtor.I therefore beg you will attack your Box of Cigars without reserve h as I had made a Contract to procure a fresh supply of the same quality, when those were expended—I am sorry to find you have suffer’d so much from the late Drought that was little felt here, and if I had had a casting vote, in the direction of the Clouds, we could have divided many refreshing showers, to water your Montezillo—which your —nevertheless I hope your apprehensons have been relieved by as Copious rains as we have had here—which gives to every kind, of Grain & Grass, a full promise of abundanceI am almost affraid to express a wish that I cou’d by some means, or other, prevail with you to make me a short visit, I wou’d send a close carriage down to wait your convenience, & Thomas to drive it, & to bring, both, or either of the Ladies with you—I wish I cou’d precisely fix the spot where to find with my telescope your Montezillo. I should daily then Employ every clear day to gratify a desire, that distance will not allow me to do in person.—The Death of our old & worthy Friend Sir John Wentworth was long expected, before it took place—for the last two years, it cou’d not have been desireable to himself—he died as he lived, respected,  & lamented by those who have known him longest—You my Dear Cousin, seem priviledged by Providence to gratify your friends, & your Country by the possession of every active faculty of mind, to make your life valuable & important to them,—I hope you will continue to enjoy the same health & spirits with wch. you appear to write—and that I shall be blessed with your Friendship for 10 years to come—You say you have let your ancient enemy, Mr B. A. Among the Beatitudes of  Human Life, as the records of experience mention’d in a Book of our earliest veneration—it is said, “it is good for a man to out live his enemies.” may this Blessing be yours—and I may wish from the same authority as was the reply of a Servant to his Royal master—“may all thy enemies be as that man—”Mrs Boylston desires her affectionate & sincere respects to you and kind rembrances to the Ladies of yr. family Circle, & thanks for their kind notice of her in your Letter—mine you please to make acceptable to them & also to Judge Adams—and if the young Constabs, are with you, please to tell them I have kept some of the same Cigars they enjoyd. at Roxbury so much, to renew their comforts when they fullfill their promises of visiting Princeton the next vacation—at which time hope to see Mr Secretary Adams & his Lady—When you can spare a leisure ten minutes, you Cannot bestow it, where you will confer a great favour, than by a few Lines on to—your ever affectionate / Cousin—

					Ward Nichs Boylston


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Greenleaf, 12 June 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Greenleaf, John,Greenleaf, Lucy Cranch

					Washington 12 June 1820

				Mrs. Adams requests the favour of Mr. Mrs. & Miss Greenleafs company at Tea on Wednesday Eveng.


Title: From John Adams to Ward Nicholas Boylston, 16 June 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Boylston, Ward Nicholas

Montezillo. 16th: June 1820.

Thanks, dear Cousin, for yours of the 10th. and thanks again for the Box of perfumes. My daughter Louisa wishes me to go to Washington—my Grand-daughter Caroline wants me to come to Fishkill—and you write me to the top of the Skye striking Wachusetts—but you know not what you ask—probably nothing less than the trouble of bringing me back in a box.—Cordial thanks for your offer of a carriage—but if I could go—I should rather go in a Gig.— I congratulate you on the glorious prospect around you—the rains have been so abundent that even the little Blue hills and the neighbouring Valleys clap their hands and sing O be joyful—never did the vicinity of Boston appear to greater advantage or afford a fairer prospect & promise.
You may see form the windows of your house, one or two or perhaps three of the highest Blue hills—but Montezillo is the least and lowest excepting one of the whole range, and therefore probably must be forever invisible at Princetown, even through the most  magnifying Telescope—for it is very little higher than Mount Wallaston, which the least and lowest of the series, and is bounded in the Sea, for which reason it anciently called Mary Mont—but enough of these little hillocks, for the Blue hills are all little hillocks in comparison with your might mountains—what insignificant things must they be then in comparison with the Alps & Apennines which you have seen.—or the Pyranees which I have ascended and descended at the hazard of my neck a hundred times.—
You will have soon to determine at Princetown a mighy question, whether we shall have a Convention to alter our Constitution—why should not the good people of your Town send you a Delegate,—they did as great honour, for many years together, to a man who was not so capable and less deserving of their confidence.
My compliments to all the good people at Princetown who ever saw me. I recollect with pleasure the kindness and civility with which they treated me when I was once on a short visit among them.—I have been reading, this week, Lieutent: William Heude’s voyage up the Persian Gulph and journey over land, from India to England in 1817. through Arabia Felix and Deserta, Persia Mesopotamia, the Garden of Eden, Babylon, Bagdad, Koordistan, Armenia and Asia Minor. Some of these Countries you have visited. The adventures among Arabs, Bedooins, and Tartars and Koords are almost as quixotical as Riley’s—but as it is dedicated to Lord Fitz William I presume the Author is entitled to some credit.
Pray tell me in what part of the venerated Book do you find the words, “it is good for a man to outlive his enemies”? I doubt the genuineness of the Philosophy contained in the Aphorism,—is it not inconsistent with the spirit of the New Testament and even of the Old. It must therefore be in some Book of the Apocraphy. Pray tell me which it is—Chapter and Verse.
Remember me always affectionately to Mrs Boylston and to your Son—and believe me your /affectionate / Cousin

John AdamsThe Ladies request to be remembered to Mrs Boylston


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 17 June 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					my dear daughter
					Montezillo June 17th. 1820

				I have received your journal to the third of June—which is entertaining and Instructing as usual—We have reports in circulation here that many Mr Randolph or Roanoke is in a state of insanity—and many say he is confined—I wish to know the truth—for although Mr Randolph has appeared through his whole public life to be possessed of a Demoniacal Spirit of Malice and Vengence without cause against me—yet I have ever considered him as gifted by nature with some extraordinary talents—and some amiable qualities—and therefore have always feelt a kind of Respect for him—But if he was the most depraved of human Beings and the most completely destitute of Moral principle I should lament the depravity deprivation of his Reason—For this I consider the greatest Calamity that can befall human Nature—and I wish if it is possible he may be restored to his senses—But to turn from this disagreeable subject to another that is more pleasing—I am informed by Mr Quincy that your husband has been Unanimously elected President of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and that he has accepted the appointment I therefore hope you will regulate your Visit to Montezillo and Tremont—so that you may be present at Commencement at the P.B.K. and at the meeting of the Academy, which is a few days before or after—I hope he will prepare an Academical discourse—when I have the Honor to be promoted to that most delectable situation I had thoughts of Commencing my Career with an Inaugural Oration—and had chosen for my Subject the Rise and Progress—the Utility and the Fame of Literary and Scientific Academys—Begining with the one in Italy—The Royal society in London—the Royal Academy of Sciences in Paris—and proceeding to others the most conspicuous and notable for their experiments labours and publications—for the advan advancement of learning and promotion of the happiness of Mankind—But the French Revolution—and the overbaring Enthusiasm of my own Country—with the rest of Europe for that most extraordinary dispensation which appeared to me to be replete with dangers to every thing that was great and good in human life—and the incessant Spirit of Malevolente and bitter Criticism and invective against me—and every-thing that I could do, write or say had broken my heart and totally discouraged me from all exertion—& therefore passed the Cession over in Silence But I hope your Husband will not follow my example—George dined with us on Saturday, with his friend Rogers—and he says that John, though he has been unwell is now recovered—. I hope you will bring Charles with you—and replace him at his Boston school—so that we may have the pleasure of seeing now and then his Wise Face, and his Sober demeanour—while he is meditating his Brilliant Wit and shrewd Satire—as well as his grave lessons of Literature and science—We are about new modeling our Constitution—I hope we shall not make it worse—I am your affectionate Father—

					John Adams—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 19 June 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 19 June 1820

				Have you forgotten your Mother my dear John? or do you never mean to write again? I have been long impatiently waiting for Letters now a long time and still meet with disappointment every post—What is the reason you do not write? Edward Taylor can be very punctual. Your father has had a Letter from your Uncle in which he says that in consequence of abusing the privilege of boarding out you are now to attend Commons and that an order has been issued to prevent any of the Gentlemen from boarding out for the future—Your father rejoices at this change I confess I am sorry for it as I am fearful you may be drawn into imprudences or quarrels should any occur in commons and suffer in consequence materially it is a new trial of discretion which I hope you are prepared to exert and prove both your prudence and self possession—We are all very well and I should have sent your books if I had had an opportunity— Should one occur you may depend upon having them sent to the care of Mr: Cruft—Charles is going to begin the Violin and Mary on the Harp they will have an excellent Italian Master and I hope improve—She has bought a beautiful Harp and it will not be the fault of the instrument if she does not succeed in itWrite me I beg of you and believe me as ever Your most affectionate Mother

					L C Adams.


Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 24 June 1820
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

					Dear Sir
					Washington 24 June 1820

				I have requested Mr. Edward Cruft to pay you on my account two hundred and fifty dollars on the first of July and the same sum quarter yearly from that day.I am Dear Sir your affectionate and dutiful Son.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 24 June 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					My Dear John
					Washington 24 June 1820

				I was seriously concerned to hear of your illness and am still considerably uneasy of lest you should by any imprudence have a relapse and I entreat you will be particularly careful of the Night air—You must write me frequently even if it is only to say “I am well” as I shall be very anxious for some time I presume you are taking the Bark? what Phyissian attended you? was your complaint really the Ague? and fever?Your Aunt Frye has got a fine boy and you another Cousin she is very well the Baby only two days old.The weather is intensely hot you will therefore excuse the shortness of my Letter I will therefore only wish you well through your examination and assure you as usual of the sincere affection of your Mother

					L. C. Adams.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 3 July 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 3d July 1820

				My intention was to write you tomorrow morning it being the anniversary of your birth and to offer you my congratulations not only to wish you joy upon this occasion but rather to rejoice at the improvement you have made during the last year and to express my hopes that your acquirements during the next may be such both in learning and discretion as will merit my most partial approbation—You are at an age when the passions require to be strongly controuled or they will master you and they will call upon you for perpetual exertion to keep under proper discipline—Habit however will soon make the thing when they are once brought into subjection and this habit will afford you more real and solid happiness through life than you can well conjecture—I do not wish to preach to you or to become tedious. all I desire is to point out to you the road to happiness: If you turn aside from it remember you may occasion me an infinity of pain but it is yourself only who will be materially injured—This I mentioned to George as well as yourself. I know it is perfectly easy for you both to say the “old Woman means well but never mind her” and in this way to reject the advice offered you and it is true you have the choice to use it or not according to your pleasure—both duty and affection prompt me to offer you my experience as a shield from trouble and if you do not value the advice thus offered you must at least respect the motives which actuate it—  Your father gave you the British Theatre and I wrote to tell you I would send it to you by one of the Packets which I intend to do—Charles is very well and grows very much he is very much improved in his manners and in the very depth of the belle passion.  You will readily guess the object as he sees but one young Lady. She is becoming a fine Woman. Adieu yours Ever

					L. C. Adams.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to George Washington Adams, 6 July 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, George Washington

					Washington 6 July 1820

				Your Letters were both delivered to me yesterday the one by Dr Waterhouse and one by the Mail. I am very happy to observe that you have at last considered the object of a correspondence with your parents in its proper point of view and from henceforth I have no doubt you will be as attentive as we could possibly wish— You must naturally feel a little anxious concerning your Socrates and I hope your labours will be crowned with all the success you can desire. If you do not gain the prize you will at least have made proper exertions to obtain it and may perhaps be more succesfull on the next trial as the habit of exertion itself will go far towards insuring your reward.As you say the time has elapsed most rapidly since you have been in College and you will soon plunge into a wider scale of existence in which you may perhaps be called upon to play a distinguished part to do this my beloved Son you must make virtue pure and stubborn virtue the rule of all your actions and though you may meet many painful crosses in your career be assured that you will find a rich reward in the conviction that you have adopted that line which is the only one where real eminence is to be found. We are but mortals to whom perfection is unattainable but by adopting a pure standard of excellence for our models let us endeavour by unwearied exertions to approach it as near as our natures will admit and in this attempt we shall be assisted by that divine being who never deserts his Creatures more especially those who faithfully believe in his mercies. With such a rule and under such guidance you must do well and on him and yourself your future destiny must depend.—I have not yet seen Dr Waterhouse but expect he will dine with us to day—Have you been to see Md. & Mrs Gray since their residence in Cambridge? You know it is your fathers wish for both of you so to do— I shall be anxious to know what part you have, likewise if John has got over his examination with credit?Our journey is not yet fixed and we move into our house on the 1st. of october—I will thank you to ask Md Adams to have our Carriage shipped and sent round—it must have an oil skin case and I should be glad to have to Lamps on it but the Glasses to be large and plain . Md Foster I dare say would ship it and send a bill of Lading of it and Charles books could come inside of it—I will thank you to execute this commission as soon as you can and you will oblige your affectionate Mother

					L. C. Adams.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to George Washington Adams, 10 July 1820
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, George Washington

					My dear Son.
					Washington 10. July 1820.

				In looking over my file of Letters received, I find that the latest date I have from you is of 10. November 1819—I am not sure that I have written since then to you—so let this pass for N. 1. of the year 1820—I have lately had at least the satisfaction of hearing from you indirectly, by your Correspondence with your Mother and your brother; but shall be glad to hear from you more immediately.I wrote some Months since to Mr Cruft, requesting him to pay for the collection of the Poets, published at Philadelphia, which were to be delivered at the Athenæum in Boston, and which I gave you. Have you received them?Dr. and Mrs Waterhouse were here a day or two last week, but the extreme heat of the weather deterred them from proceeding farther South, and hastened their departure homeward—We have had twelve languishing days in succession, with the thermometer at Midday above 90—Four days and nights of thunder-showers have scarcely yet swept the atmosphere clean, and seem scarcely to have cooled it at all—Charles and I brush the dew almost every Morning for a bath in the Potowmack—Charles flinches, sometimes for cold, and sometimes for heat; one day for an aching head, and another day for bruised feet—all which are different versions for sluggishness—It is hard to get him out of bed before Sunrise—How is it with you and John? Are you smitten with the charms of Aurora the friend of the Muses? She is the friend of the virtues too—Send me a copy of your Dissertation upon Socrates.Your affectionate father

					John Quincy Adams.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 12 July 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					My dear John
					Washington 12 July 1820

				I am afraid that Charles has been writing some nonsense concerning Harriet Welsh which has caused you to write so disrespectfully concerning her Charl’s got hold of my papers and contrary to my most positive orders read them and then wrote you something or other not much to his credit—I therefore beg I may hear no more on this subjectI am certainly very sorry to hear that you were so seriously ill but my question proceeded from the circumstance of having heard that the Ague and fever was scarcely know in that part of the Country and it is a complaint which is so liable to return I was fearful you might have a relapse—I did not doubt that you had been sick but the nature of the complaint was what I hesitated to believe—I wrote to George about sending on the Carriage as I am afraid this may make your Grandfather uneasy he had better wait a little if he has not already taken measures concerning it.Dr & Mrs. Waterhouse dined with us and I was nearly as much struck with her as you appear to have been altho’ it was the second time I had seen her—She is not half so sauvage as she was and I dare say on acquaintance might become agreeable. She has promised a long visit to Washington at some future period at a more brilliant Season. You must persuade her to come on next Winter that you may have an opportunity to escort her to the party’s—and you will be the envy of all our youthful beaux—As George is fast approaching to his Senior year I suppose he is becoming very grave and sober; he is so soon to enter on the great Stage of life I have no doubt he feels his importance greatly I shall accordingly expect to see him much improved in his manners and general deportment at his and more especially in the arrangement of his person which requires considerable attention—Adieu we drank your health yesterday celebrated your fathers birth day.Yours Ever

					L C A—


Title: From John Adams to Caroline Amelia Smith De Windt, 13 July 1820
From: Adams, John
To: De Windt, Caroline Amelia Smith

My dear Caroline—
Montezillo July 13th 1820—

Extract.
I was not able to accept the condescending invitation of the Government of the State and the various Societies in Boston to celebrate the fourth of July, though my head would have struck the Stars if I could have made so glorious a figure as my Ancient excellent friend Carrol made at Baltimore on that day. But the heat of the season with the pomps and ceremonies, could not have been supported with my feeble frame.
I should have been highly delighted to hear my friend Mr Lyman, who I am informed, pronounced an elegant and masterly Oration. Pray tell Harriet, (Miss H. Welsh) that this Same friend of ours, Mr Lyman, has sent me a rich and costly entertainment which I am constantly devouring with as keen an appetite and relish as ever I felt in my youthful or riper years days—
The life of the Earl of Chatham in three volumes; the life of Lord Russell in two volumes—Chalmer’s life of Mary Queen of Scots in two volumes. Hurde’s journey overland from Hindostan to England—Many of Scott’s Novels—and in general I think this writer has well-merited his knighthood and a much higher order of nobility; for, his writings have a tendency to inform and reform mankind, for no man can read them without disgust at the horrid crimes, miseries, violences, arising from superstition, fanaticism and hypocrisy which have prevailed So Scandalously in all the ages of which he writes. I have reserved for the last the life of Lady Russell. This I have not yet read, because I read it forty years ago—On this hangs a Tale, which you ought to know, and communicate to your children. I bought the life and letters of Lady Russell in the year 1775, in Philadelphia, and sent it to your Grandmother with an express intention and desire that she should consider it a Mirror in which to contemplate herself; for at that time I thought it extremely probable from the daring and dangerous career I was determined to run, that she would one day find herself in the situation with Lady Russell—her husband without a head.—This Lady was more beautiful than Lady Russell—had a brighter genius; more information & a more refined taste, and at least equal in the virtues of the heart; equal fortitude and firmness of character—equal resignation to the will of heaven; equal in all the virtues, and graces of the Christian life—Like Lady Russell she never by word or look discouraged me from running all hazards for the Salvation of my Countries liberties. She was willing to share with me, and that her children should share with us both, in all the dangerous consequences we had to hazard—
From your affectionate / Grandfather,
J. A—


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 13 July 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					My Dear Sir
					Washington 13 July 1820

				Having observed in the papers that the reason assigned for your declining to accept the invitation on the 4h. was on account of indisposition Mr. Adams and myself are anxious to hear from you and to be assured that it was rather the dread of over fatigue than real indisposition which caused your refusal to attend. It would have been altogether improper to make such an exertion and I rejoice that you did not attempt it We are all well here tho’ dwindling into very delicate beings on account of the great and continued heats which melts us into shadows—Mr. A—I think however he bears it better than he has hitherto altho’ he finds the labors of his Office almost insupportable at Noontide—His health is generally good but he says he never had so much business since he has been in the department and the frequent absence of the present President encreases the business very much.The City is encreasing slowly and there several handsome houses going up at present altho’ the times are so bad that people cannot get work.—We are to have two New Churches and a Theatre besides a Town Hall and Penitentiary—The last is much the most wanted as the City is full of the most worthless people and I have no doubt that would easily fill it even if it was built upon the very largest scale.Dr & Mrs. Waterhouse dined with us one day but we could not prevail on them to stay to see the inside of the Presidents House which is now in a state to be visited for contrary to the last year all the Furniture is left in its usual order—The Dr appeared as usual very gay but Mrs. W. was impatient to return home You will see them I dare say and be amased by the account of their tour—He is too much of a Republican to admire our publick buildings but was much delighted with the celebration of the annual University at Baltimore Ours was a dead plat and I think before the expiration of the next four years this day will be annihilated if not the Government which it adopted. John wrote me that he was to spend the day with you at Quincy so that I hope you passed it happily in your family circle as did your very dutiful daughter

					L. C. Adams


Title: From John Quincy Adams to John Adams, 17 July 1820
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

               My dear Son.
               Washington 17. July 1820.

            We were a long time without hearing from your brother George or you, at all, and when at last we did hear it was with pain that you had been unwell, though happily mingled with the comfort of learning that your health was restored.  My own occupations deprive me of the satisfaction of writing to you so often as I would, but you have other Correspondents here who have more leisure to be punctual—Your brother and you must make it a rule to write to some one of us, at least once every week.We have been in a melting mood here, for a succession of three weeks, and by the newspapers I perceive it has been much the same throughout this Continent. The last three days the weather has moderated. A question has arisen among us here, which I, more than any one else ought to be ashamed to acknowledge, none of us is able to solve—namely, who were the seven wise men of Greece, and what was the wise saying κατ’ εξοχην, which was ascribed to each of them? I was surprized to find when the question was started, that although the mystical number seven, of these celebrated sages was quite familiar to me, I neither recollected who they were, nor what were their choice drops of the essential oil of wisdom—Charles has Schrevelius’s dictionary, where seven of them are named, with a saying, tacked to each of them; but I suspect that some of them are like the diamonds in the king of England’s crown, which have just been discovered to be paste. Schrevelius is no authority, and he gives none; and in rummaging among the very few books which I have here, we find other pretenders to the dignity of a Heptasoph, and other sayings to stamp them for genuine—Epimenides, perhaps a Sicilian, Myson of Chen, and Anacharsis the Scythian, all put in their claims to be of the chosen seven, and as I am not acquainted with any learned Theban from the Emerald Isle, to whom I could apply to extricate me from these perplexities, I must call upon you and George, styled by my old friend and Classmate Forbes, my Plenipotentiaries at the Court of the Muses, to inform me who were the true seven wise men of Greece?—how their number came to be ten?—how one of them came to be a Scythian?—and what was the specific wise saying which gave each of them his claim to oracular wisdom?—Thus much will suffice for the present, from your affectionate father

               John Quincy Adams.