Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to Abigail Adams, 21 December 1796
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Adams, Abigail

              My dear Mother.
              The Hague Decr: 21. 1796.

            Towards the close of last month I had the pleasure to receive your kind letter of August 16th:. I have been so much occupied since then, that it has been impossible for me to thank you sooner for the agreeable domestic intelligence it contains. I am led to suppose however that at the time it was written, your own health was considerably impaired, especially when you tell me, that at “this distance I have a sympathetic suffering with you.” in addition to which a letter of September 18 from our Cousin Cranch has confirmed that conjecture, at the same time he informed us that you were upon the recovery. All your letters to me since you heard of my illness, as well as those from my Father, are full of such tenderness and affection that I know not how to express my gratitude, or repay that kindness by words alone, which at this distance are the only means in my power to testify the feelings of my heart. But my parents, I trust, do not require a verbal assurance of my attachment; motives, stronger than duty or mere natural ties, bind me to them, and command every endearing sentiment of my mind. That I may meet them ere long in my native land, never ceases to be the most interesting anticipation which my fancy forms, and that health may attend the prolongation of their lives is the most fervent of my wishes.
            With regard to myself it is with pleasure I assure you, that my health has been very good for the most part since my recovery. A few infirmities still lurk about me, but I am in hopes to keep them in due subjection by a careful attention to my cloathing and exercise. If I could afford to keep a horse, I certainly should from a persuasion that riding is the best adapted exercise for my habit, but my finances do not admit such an expence, and I endeavor to make my own legs serve me instead of those of another animal.
            There is an English article of manufacture, which I believe is of recent date, called Fleecy-hosiery, which is strongly recommend to

people afflicted with Rheumatic complaints, and which from experience I can affirm to possess qualities of protection from this disorder superior to any thing of the kind yet known. It is manufactured in all the different pieces of underdress or overdress, from the night-cap for the head to socks for the feet. It is doubtless to be had at this time with you, and I would recommend an experiment of it to you, persuaded that you will be benefited by the use of it. The celebrated philanthropist Dr: Buchan, who is in such repute with the ladies especially, for making them the physicians of their families, was one of the first persons of the faculty to point out the excellence and utility of this manufacture and has written a scientific letter to the inventor in praise of it. It was his pamphlet which was put into my hands last winter while I was suffering severely from the rhumatism that first resolved me to try it, and I have not found that he overrates its merit.
            The desire which your letters and those of my father have so frequently expressed for my return home, it is my intention to gratify in the course of a few months. It seems probable, at present, that my brother will continue here through the Spring, and though in that case I must leave him before the expiration of his mission here I shall probably prolong my stay somewhat beyond the period which I had meditated for my departure hence. A person to succeed my Brother here will doubtless soon be appointed, and he will most likely arrive here before we quit. Who this successor will be I am unable to conjecture, but I sincerely hope it may be some man of respectable talents, but above all of a firm & decided character. To deal properly with these people, to maintain the harmony between the two Countries and at the same time to yield nothing to them but strict justice, the Minister of the United States at the Hague ought to possess those qualities. The mission is one of the most delicate that we have at present, and it becomes daily more & more so. I say delicate, because there is no knowing how soon the French Directory may order the Government of this Country to break of all communication with the United States until they shall redress the wrongs of which the French Republic has reason to complain. This mode of proceeding has of late become so fashionable, that it ought not to surprize the most friendly Nation of the Globe, to find itself without ceremony ranked among the number of those upon which the french Directory is disposed to cast a frown of disapprobation. Through what medium must the Executive of France judge of the character of the American people, if they imagine that incivility and

harsh treatment will gain their affections? Such a policy is surely not founded upon accurate knowledge of the human temper. But they expect to terrify us into a subserviency to their sovereign will. This being their object, I am not for my single self averse to an experiment of that nature, for I firmly believe that the success of it will be of a description to convince them of its rashness. But experience is evidently not the guide of the French Directory; had it been, they would have learnt a lesson of wisdom from the result of a similar trial upon Portugal and Sweden. A french opposition paper which I meet with some times, contained a few days ago a paragraph of which the following is a translation. “It is affirmed that the Directory seems little disposed to receive Mr: Pinckney the new Ambassador of the United States of America, and that, because his Government is connected in commerce with England. As whatever is too ridiculous does not merit belief, we contradict this news. None but fools require that their friends should be the enemies of their enemies— Moreover the whole world has not yet consented to divide itself between France and England.” The opinion expressed in this extract is very generally prevalent, but it appears not to be that of the Directory.
            Our Anarchists have I presume already received their cue, and the whole doctrine of rewards & punishments has doubtless been rung in the ears of Government, with as much emphasis as it is chimed by the french Minister to the Batavian National Assembly. What a mercenary friendship is that of the french Government at this time!

              29. Decr:

            You doubtless see the letters of my brother to my Father soon after they are received, and as he gives all the political intelligence of importance, it is unnecessary for me to repeat it to you.
            I have lately received letters from my Brother at New York and from W Cranch in which the new married men most egregiously tantalise their single relations, by the flattering colors in which they draw the portrait of their family conditions. One would think that there was no ingredient but enjoyment in the cup of Matrimony, if their estimates are accurate. Bitter or sweet, our family hitherto seem well inclined to taste of it sooner or later. Suppose that I should resolve to perform a prodigy of self denial by shunning the chains of wedlock. It is a tremendous undertaking, but stranger things have happened. I make no promises however. I remember

copying a letter from the Minister to you, about this time last year, written at Helvoetsluys, wherein the said person very nearly abjures a family connection, and three months after what was the fate of that lamentation? This is not the first instance of a revolution, of which a female was the principal cause, and it will not be the last, if I have any skill in Augury. It is doubtful whether the final arrangement of the Ministers family matters will be made in Europe, but if not I think he will stay but a short time at the Court of her most faithful Majesty. But I am meddling with other people’s affairs too officiously; you have already a full account from the party concerned.
            The present is a gay winter at the Hague—Balls—Concerts, Drawing rooms &ca: in abundance. People have thrown aside somewhat of their buckram, and seem to be convinced that melancholy is not the best remedy of itself.
            Remember me affectionately to all friends round the Blue Hills, and at the expiration of the year 1796 let me express the unfeigned wish of my heart, that the new one may bring with it to one and all the fullest measure of felicity and content.
            Believe me with love & duty, Your Son

              Thomas B Adams.

              I wrote to my Father but a few day since.


Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 25 December 1796
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

            my Dearest Friend
            Quincy December 25 1796

          Was it ever colder in this Country. the glasses have fallen much below 0, tho a bright sunshine on fryday and saturday. many people froze their feet hands and Ears. I really compasionate you that you must Sleep alone. not one Day here since the 23 of Novbr in which it has thaw’d so as to Drop from the houses. the snow is very level and near a foot deep. our people are getting wood home. Billings has made a New Sled, and if the weather holds we shall sled some stones. water very Scarce. we are threatned with a very hard and cold Winter. we have no preaching to Day. if we had the weather is too cold for Me to venture abroad. I have read G Mifflins Speach. it is more Complimentary than I expected to the President, and is not destitute of patriotick sentiments as it respects our Country. he probably thought an atonement necessary for the part Pennsilvanna had taken in the late Election. Abraham ventured not so far as to limit his Number to one Righteous Man, when he plead for the city. I would hope however that both Virginna & Pennssilvana have a much larger Number. the Hungry Patriots, we are informd have run beyond the bounds of their credit. I do not compasionate them. their fall will serve as Warnings to others, & eventually benifit the publick. the numerous Banks I hope will be diminishd, and a more rational system, than these immense speculations, these Phantom Nabobs, will Succeed to them, upon more solid and durable foundations. the President in his speach and the Senate in their reply notice the inadequate compensation of publick officers. I am informd that in the Houses answer, the first Draught of which was sent on last week as agreed to in committe, that no notice was taken of that part of the speach. it is an evil of no small Magnitude, and will in the event prove dishonorable to our Country as well as Dangerous.

            [“]Dovoid of decent show,
            How soon does power to trampled Weakness grow?
            How soon base minds the feeble judge deride
            And beggar’d rulers quake at Wealthy Pride?”

          We have so many restless Spirits in the union that I am at a loss to know who in Particular you allude to. Pains pamphlet can do no

Hurt. I most sincerely wish it circulated it is so opposite to the Voice of the Nation, so low & Vilely abusive that neither he or Jaspir can do any other service, than open the Eyes of the Blind. I am at a loss for the politicks of Virginna, unless they intended that Burr should not be V P. I had no Idea but that those who voted for Jefferson, would vote also for Burr in that state. it was quite a surprize giving 14 to S A. their policy was however weak, and their judgments wholy warped by Faction our News papers declare the Election, and have hopes of an additional Number of votes. Yet no person mentions the station, but as a post of difficulty and Danger. I could sincerely Join with Dr Clark and say in the words of Moses, when looking to the Mount, If thou o Lord go not up with us, carry us not up theither.
          I have not any Letter from you of a later date than the 12th I should be glad of a post Note, at the New Year. My Blacksmith & Coach Mender &c call to settle for the Year. I should have been glad to have taken up Genll Lincolns Note, before he goes on to Philadelphia
          The minority in the House of Reps is small. they ought to Blush if they had any generous feelings they would. is there one of them all whose Character if Weighd by the hand of Justice, and Virtue honour & probity were put in the Scale, would not its opposite fly up & kick the Beam?
          consistant in wrong measures, poor Reptiles, censure is Your Due, and that from the pen & Heart / of Your affectionate

            A Adams


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 27 December 1796
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dearest Friend
            Philadelphia Decr 27. 1796

          I recd yours of the 14 on Fryday: but had no Letter on Monday.
          According to present appearances, Jefferson will be Daddy Vice, and between you and me I expect you will soon See a more ample Provision made for him, that he may live in Style—and not be obliged to lodge at Taverns and ride in Stage Coaches. I See plainly enough that when your Washingtons and Adams’s are Stowed away our dear Country will have a gay Government. I cannot help these injudicious Extreams into which People will run, nor these invidious Partialities.
          The Rumours of Peculation and Want of Probity as well as want of Fidelity to Trusts are allarming & afflicting. My Old Friends Mifflin, McKean Ewing, exhibit despicable and detestible Phenomena for Governors Judges & Heads of Colledges, as their Conduct is represented daily in public Companies. I know nothing more.— McKean indeed is only charged with a little too much Madeira and Infidelity to Friendship and political Principle.
          Whatever the French may Say without stammering or with Swaggering, the American People will not be frightened by them.
          Swan came to visit me, as well as Tenche Coxe. What a Puppy this last? He left his Card. I was at home when the other came and had a Conversation with him civilly enough.—

          The Prospect before me, opens many Questions and Inquiries concerning House, Furniture, Equipage, Servants and many other Things which will give me trouble and occupation enough and the more because you will not be here— Luckily for you— I should tremble for your health if you had all the Visits and Ceremonies to go through and all the Preparations to make.
          71 is the Ne plus ultra—it is now certain that no Man can have more and but one so many— if no irregularity appears to set aside Votes 71 will carry the Point. I know of no irregularity. The suggested one of Vermont appears without foundation. I am affectionately

            J. A.


Title: Charles Adams to John Adams, 28 December 1796
From: Adams, Charles
To: Adams, John

            My dear Sir
            New York December 28 1796

          Your kind letter of the last week I have received. Your ideas respecting a young man’s having a Record of a regular education in the Law I think are perfectly right with regard to my Young friend Malcom his age will not permit his taking an examination until near fifteen months after he leaves my office which will be in June next His uncle Mr Joshua Sands is his guardian and has since my first acquaintance with him been such a friend as is not to be ranked among the many It has been Mr Sands object to give my pupil as good an education as this State can afford knowing that the fortune left to him is such that he will not be obliged to toil through the drugery of the law for a maintainance he had proposed to send him for a year or two to Europe and if possible to procure him the place of Secretary to Mr King. I wish not to say too much of the merits of my eléve but it would be wrong to conceal the gratitude I owe not only to him as one of the most attentive students I ever knew but to

his family and connections who have invariably endeavored to promote my interest and wellfare
          The multiplicity of Banks and unlimited Speculations have caused the most deplorable scarcity of money The calculation of money now due to our Merchants from England and France is enormous. The failure of payment of petty debts creates a distress that can hardly be conceived I can give you a specimen which I know is not singular I had the other day many outstanding debts in the way of my business to the amount of about two hundred and fifty dollars and those due from perhaps sixty different people I wanted to collect them and spent two days in the business and obtain[ed] but eight dollars. The complaint is universal [….] man whose word would pass for fifty thousand dollars tells you he cannot command twenty at the moment. Tom Paines pamphlet I have read I shall make no comments but give the Motto I think the American People will give to it

            “Hic Jacet Thomas Paine”

          My dear Mother has this day sent me a pamphlet containing a sett of papers under the signature of Aurelius, they are well intended though the author does not discover a knowlege of the minutia of business Infinitely more might have been said: Whatever confidence you may place in me shall be sacred and on this declaration I would inquire what if any has ever been the coolness between Hamilton and yourself. I have been informed and that by a person although he will lie could not have hoped to escape detection in this instance That Hamilton had declared in his presence in the Chancellors, Brockholst Livingstons, and Troups that his most earnest and sincere wish was that Pinkney might be elected President. If So “There’s something rotten in the State of Denmark” My dear Mrs Adams and her little one who if she could speak would join us send to you the compliments of the season and that my fathers conduct may during his life be admired by the virtuous is the ardent wish and the assured hope of his / Affectionate son

            Chas Adams


Title: John Quincy Adams to Charles Adams, 29 December 1796
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Charles

            My dear Brother
            The Hague December 29. 1796

          It is a long time since I have had the pleasure to receive any letter from you. I suppose you spend so much time in dandling your offspring that you have none left to think of Collaterals. But what makes me most impatient is that you do not send us even the Newspapers until they are six months old. Here have arrived since the beginning of the Summer twenty or thirty vessels from New York direct & I have two or three lines from you just to tell me that you will soon write me more fully. Here are other people have New York papers to the last of October, and I have them to some time in August. So much for Scolding.
          At present I enclose you a couple of letters, which I recommend to your particular care. I know not whether there is a regular Post from New York to Quebec, but if not I dare say you will easily find an opportunity to forward the letter destined there by a private and safe opportunity.
          As to business I hope to hear from you soon.— If you should meet with a good opportunity to employ advantageously a couple of thousand dollars more for me, draw upon me for that sum. But remember I say advantageously. That is at something considerably beyond mere legal interest, without however any thing illegal, which I always understand to be expressly forbidden in the use of my money. Take an advantageous time for the course of exchange, but in this particular you may accommodate more or less according to the benefit with which you place the proceeds. Do not be in a hurry to draw, but do not let slip any good chance. The terms as between you and me are understood to be as heretofore. As it is possible that before you find occasion to draw, I may be removed from this place, you will direct the payee of your bills to apply to Messrs: W & J Willink at Amsterdam, in case of my absence, and they will take care to discharge your draft.
          You will write me however without waiting to hear of my departure from hence, and do not forget a statement of accounts between you and me at the close of every year. If I were not afraid you would think me Mentorial, I should recommend to you to keep the accounts regular and in a mercantile manner, because between order

and confusion, caeteris paribus, the former is upon the whole preferable.
          I could write you a letter a week long, upon the politics of America and Europe; but I believe it would not do much good; I remember you wrote me some time ago, that the People (or as the Boston Honestus always prints it, THE PEOPLE) of America scorned to be Governed by french art or british insolence, but as this is a time of Revolutions & variations, I am curious to see how they will conduct themselves between french insolence and british art. The experiment is making, and I hope our countrymen will prove under it that they are not to be frightened, any more than they are to be intrigued into political dependence upon any European power.
          France and Britain will not make peace yet. France and Austria may, but it is not very probable they will. Another year of war threatens the world. Another year of wisdom, caution, perseverance and firmness, is necessary to keep our Country out of it. Heaven grant that they may be successfully exerted. For if we are once entangled in this war, we are irretrievably tacked to the destinies of Europe, and must be made the perpetual tools and victims of every struggle that avarice or ambition may stir up in this hemisphere. We must fight to give the Netherlands to France, or Gibraltar to Spain, to change a Popedom into a Republic or a federalism into an indivisibility. If we escape this time, we shall have an example and a precedent for futurity and the blessings of peace will be secured to us by the benefits of experience. There will probably never arise a quarrel in Europe upon a question calculated so strongly to interest our feelings as that with which the present war began, but there never can be one with which we have less concern, than that upon which it is now continued. It is no longer a contest between despotism and liberty, since France is in alliance offensive and defensive with Spain, and upon terms of close intimacy with Prussia. It is no longer a contest for the Conquest of France since a general peace is offered them for a mutual restoration of Conquests, and they continue the war for the sake of retaining them.
          You will get the news from the papers. Remember me with affection to my Sisters and be assured of the invariable tenderness of / your Brother


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 30 December 1796
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dearest Friend
            Philadelphia Decr 30 1796

          The Prospect that opens upon me presents Troubles enough of every kind.— I have made Some Inquiry concerning Horses and Carriages, and find that a common Chariot of the plainest Sort cannot be had under Twelve hundred Dollars, and if you go to a little more ornament and Elegance you must give fifteen hundred. The President has a Pair of Horses to sell, one 9 the other 10 Years old for which he asks a thousand Dollars. And there is no Probability of procuring a decent Span for less than Six hundred dollars.
          House Rent, another indispensable Article will be extravagantly high.— The Plenty of Paper, has unsettled every Thing. Nothing has a Price. Every one asks and every one cheats as much as he can, I think.
          I wish I knew what would be asked for a Chariot in Boston.
          The President Says he must sell Something to enable him to clear out. When a Man is about retiring from Public Life and sees nothing but a Ploughshare between him and the Grave, he naturally thinks most upon that. When Charles the fifth resigned his Empire and crown, he went to building his Coffin— When I contemplated a Retirement I meditated the Purchase of Mrs Veseys Farm and thought of building a Tomb on my own Ground adjoining to the burying Yard.
          The President is now engaged in his Speculations upon a Vault which he intends to build for himself, not to Sleep but to lie down in.
          So you See, my little head is made like two great heads and I have ambitiously placed myself between them.
          Mrs Blodget, who I dare say is more desirous that you should be Presidante than that I should be Presidant, Says She is afraid President Washington will not live long. I should be afraid too, if I had not confidence in his Farm and his Horse.
          He must be a fool, I think who dies of Chagrin, when he has a fine farm and a Narragansett Mare that Paces, trots and canters. but I dont know but all Men are such fools.
          I think a Man had better wear than rust.
          The Boyish Language of the Emissaries from Monroes Academy is not confined to Boston Market.— Captn. Barney is holding the Same Cant.

          John Adams must be an intrepid to encounter the open Assaults of France and the Secret Plotts of England, in concert with all his treacherous Friends and open Enemies in his own Country. Yet I assure you he never felt more Serene in his Life. Yours most tenderly

            J. A.


Title: Louisa Catherine Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 30 December 1796
From: Johnson, Louisa Catherine
To: Adams, John Quincy

            London Decb. 30 1796

          I have recieved your letters which afforded me infinite pleasure as they assured me you were well and in good spirits—
          You tell me you are to remain at the Hague, and that you hope a greater distance, and longer time of seperation than we had contemplated, will have no effect upon my affection— I am almost angry when I read that part of your letter, as it implies a sort of doubt which I am sure I cannot have merited. no my beloved friend e’re my affection ceases I shall cease to breathe—
          I will endeavor to answer yours of the 21st of Novb, which I confess did not please me, as it too plainly evinced how little credit you give to what I said upon the same subject in a former letter. I again repeat it. our seperation is fortunate, as it will be the means of preventing my forming any ambitious views and keeping me in the station to which I have been accustomed, indeed I am very fearful I should not have been sufficiently convinced of the honors acquired,

had our union taken place before you went to Portugal— Do not be offended, for I must write as I feel and I value too much your good opinion to risk the loosing of it. but had flattered myself I had fully satisfied you relative to my prefering domestic felicity to the alloy of ambition or parade—
          I am apprehensive upon reflection that all your fears proceed from my conduct before you quitted England— perhaps I appeared too anxious to go with you, but your Louisa was so little guided by reason, and so much by the impulse of the moment, that she thought not of impropriety untill too late. as it is I would give worlds to recall the past, but it cannot be and I must be more cautious—
          I am well convinced and was before you left us that you could not take me with you, therefore do not tax you with insensibility, but as I have very little natural philosophy I must copy yours, and say, “as long as we cannot command events, we must necessarily learn to acquiesce in them, and the more carefully we prepare for them, the more easily we content ourselves under them—[”]
          People tell me I am much altered, I believe I am and sometimes am inclined to think that when we meet you will cease to love me, as I really am not the Louisa you were acquainted with— I am so miserably dull, stupid, and cross, that I have gained the appellation of the Nun, yet I have ceased to repine, and find that though it may not be possible totally to eradicate the thorn of disappointment, prudence may nevertheless prevent its growing to any height—
          I am sorry to understand from mr. Colhoun, that your Brother is soon to return to America. had you been enabled to leave Holland I should not have regreted it so much, as I would have endeavored by becoming your companion, to alleviate the regret occasioned by the loss of his society—
          Mr. C. on his arrival paid us a visit. he turned to Nancy and told her, he had seen her best friend, left him in very good health and supposed she had given up all idea of going to America. I could not help smiling at the mistake—
          Coll. Trumbull is a great man therefore we do not see him often— Poor Mr. Alexander is universally allowed to be quite insane— I have never ceased to lament my folly and ill nature, and really am ashamed to hear his name. I hope long before this you have destroyed those ridiculous lines, I am sure they do no credit to the writers heart— I have not seen Mr: Foster since his return—
          Adieu my beloved friend that heaven may grant you every

blessing, is the sincere and constant prayer, of [your] / Truely affectio[nate]

            Louisa C J[ohnson]


Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 31 December 1796
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

            my Dearest Friend
            Decbr 31. 1796 Quincy

          I received by the last post, Your Letters of the 14th. 16th 18th & 19th. The frequent and repeated fires in the various capitals of Savanna Baltimore and N york are really shocking, but renderd vastly more allarming from the opinion that they are the effect of design, and not accident. I fear America will be the harbour and assilum of the Dissolute and abandoned of the Nations of Europe, unless more vigilence is adopted with respect to foreigners. I have had many congratulatory compliments in the Week past upon the supposed certainty of your Election. they have not however been unmixd with the alloy which every person sees the station is subject to. Some of the Jacobins in Boston I was told, declared they were glad you were Elected, for now they knew they should be governd by Principles, and not Names. they say H would be the President, and P. the puppet. with respect to mr Jay You know that I believe him an upright honest Man, not given to intrigue, and incapable of Deserting an

old and long tried Friend, a Man of Honour a Man of Principle a Man of Religion. You may recollect, that I have often said to you, H——n is a Man ambitious as Julius Ceasar, a subtle intriguer. his abilities would make him Dangerous if he was to espouse a wrong side. his thirst for Fame is insatiable. I have ever kept My Eye upon him. he has obtaind a great influence over some of the most worthy and amiable of our acquaintance whom I could name. He has allways busied himself in the Election of V P. as you well know.
          I received a Letter from an old Friend and correspondent this week who writes thus,
          “The Election of our friend I hope is sure the only adverse chance is that which favours Mr Pinckney, and if he has the North Carolina votes I think he will be Elected there being every reason to suppose that the other four southern and western states will give him their support. I was more apprehensive of Danger from this quarter than from any other, and before we proceeded to vote, the matter was fully discussed, so that if by her own votes Massachusetts should bring into the Chair a south Carolinian, of respectable Character it is true, but with little or no experience in the Domestic politicks of the union, and exclude a citizen of her own, whose experience station and qualifications, give him the highest pretensions to the office, she will have acted with her Eyes open, and must blame herself for her impolicy.
          The fact is as I am informd from high Authority in N York, that a plan was there laid by a quondum secretary to bring in mr Pinkney, and that it was confidentially extended thro the continent. that Letter was put into the N york post office on the 30 Novbr, and was deliverd to me at our post office on the 14th instead of the 7th of when it was undoubtedly in Boston. had I then received it I should have enforced the Argument for reducing the votes for mr Pinckney, and explaind the motives of some of the Electors who were for giving him a full vote. one of these confessed that he had been conferring with a Senator, and some Members of the House of Rep’s of Congress from this state, through whose instrumantality, this plan was undoubtedly communicated. I confess the conduct of that elector was to me Enigmatical untill I received the Letter.” E. G.
          you may judge from the Statement here made, that the high Authority was aware of the snare, and exerted himself to ward of the blow. H. is as much suspected here as he is with you, and for the Reasons given by the Jacobins. they say H.  knows you will

not be governd. I am ready to think that Enmity to Jefferson was the prevailing Motive. Jefferson I hope will succeed. I believe the Government would be more conciliated, and the bitterness of Party allayd the former Friendship which subsisted between you would tend to harmonize, and Moderation coolness and temperance would reconcile the present jaring interests to concord this is my hope, and I do not Despair of seeing it effected you know my Friendship for that Gentleman has lived through his faults and his errors, to which I have not been blind but most sincerely regreeted them. the whole Election has been a jugal, in which You have been an inactive Spectator. the Bostonians Pretend to be very Angry with the South Carolians. Massachusetts however seems to have been a Dupe.
          my Letters are confidential. I wish you would burn those which might be injurious if by any accident exposed.
          I inclose to you an extract of a Letter From Thomas to his Friend J Q, dated october 9th by a vessel from Amsterdam. I had not any Letters
          Weather yet very cold adieu, and a good Night for it is Bed Time, so Dream / of your

            A Adams—


Title: Abigail Adams to Elbridge Gerry, 31 December 1796
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Gerry, Elbridge

            Dear Sir
            Quincy Decbr 31 1796

          Your obliging favour of December 28th, I received by the Hand of Dr. Welch. I thank you Sir, for your Congratulations, which receive their value from the Sincerity with which I believe them fraught. The elevated station in which the Suffrages of our Country have placed our Friend, is encompassed with so Many Dangers and difficulties, that it appears to Me a slipery Precipice, surrounded on all sides, with Rocks Shoals and quicksand.
          There is not any Man, in whom again, can be united, such an assemblage of fortunate circumstances, to combine all Hearts in his favour, and every voice in unison, as has been the Singular Lot of the President of the United States. yet even he, with the full tide of favour, and affection, has tasted the bitter Cup of Calumny and abuse, an imported Cup, a foreign Mixture, a poison so subtle as to have infected even Native American. What must a successor expect who has near half the Country opposed to his Election? as well as all the Friends of the Rival Candidates mortified at their Defeat.
          You Sir, have been too long conversant in publick Life, and full well know, “the pangs and Heart acks” to which it is subject, not personally to mix commisiration, with Your Congratulations
          At my Time of Life, the desire and wish to shine in publick Life is wholy extinguishd.
          Retirement to (Peace Feild, the Name which Mr. Adams has given to his Farm) is much more eligible to me, particularly as my Health has Severely Sufferd by my residence at Philadelphia. But personally I shall consider myself as the Small Dust of the balance, when compared to the interests of a Nation. To preserve Peace, to support order, and continue to the Country that system of Government under which it has become prosperous and happy, the sacrifice of an individual Life, important only to its near connextions, ought not to be taken into consideration.
          I fully agree with you in sentiment as it respects the Election of Mr Jefferson. I have long known him, and entertain for him a personal Friendship, and tho I cannot accord with him in Some of his politicks, I do not believe him culpable to the extent he has been

represented. placed at the Head of the Senate, I trust his conduct will be wise and pruden[t, and] hope it will be a means of softning the animosity of Party, and of cementing & strengthining the bond of union.
          There never was any publick, or Private, animosity between Mr Adams & mr Jefferson. upon the subject of Pains Rights of Man, there was a dissagreement in sentiment. Mr Jefferson “does not look quite thro the Deeds of Men” Time has fully disclosed whose opinion was well founded.
          The Gentleman you alluded to as an active Agent in the Election, has no Doubt his views and designs. there are some Characters, more supple, than others, more easily wrought upon, more accommodating, more complying Such a person might be considerd as the ostensible Engine which a Master Hand could work. To what other motive can be asscribed the Machiavelian policy of placeing at the Head of the Government a Gentleman not particularly distinguishd for any important Services to his Country, and scarcly heard of beyond the state which gave him Birth, untill sent upon a publick Embassy.

            “Coruption wins not more than honesty”

          I feel Sir when addressing you the confidence of an old Friend, and that an apology is unnecessary for the freedom of communication.
          Be pleased to present My compliments to mrs Gerry. it would give Me pleasure to receive a Friendly visit from her and from you. I am Dear sir with sentiments / of Respect and Esteem / Your Friend and Humble Servant

            Abigail Adams


Title: John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson, 31 December 1796
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Johnson, Louisa Catherine

            The Hague December 31. 1796.

          Since my Letter of the 20th: I have not enjoyed the pleasure of receiving any from my friend, but I do not forget the mutual engagement of writing every week, and I cannot close the year in a better or more agreeable manner than in conversing with her— There are some particulars in your Letters of Novr: 29. and Decr: 6. which require a reply from me, which time did not allow me to give in my last.— You request me not to resign any situation on your account contrary to the wishes of my friends and family.— But it is neither my intention nor the wish of my friends and family that I should hold for a permanency any situation whatever in Europe. America is my Country; there all my hopes and all my intentions centre, and I know not of any misfortune that could befal myself personally, which I should consider as more severe than that of being condemned to a constant residence in any part of Europe. The inclinations of my friends are perfectly coincident with my own, and they have more than once intimated to me a wish to have me return home as speedily as possible. This is my own settled determination which I shall effect whenever my duty to the public, and to your interest will permit it. Nor will I disguise to the friend of my heart, that one of the consolations which I derive from reflection upon the necessity we are under of postponing our union, is that a different Event might have contributed to reconcile me to a European residence, and to lengthen it beyond the period assigned by my own duties, my own interests as well as those of the public.
          Your anxiety least the application which is at present my diversion and employment should affect my health deserves my gratitude, as I behold in it an unquestionable token of your affection.— It will make me more anxious than perhaps I might otherwise be, to preserve that kind of temperance the want of which is the most excusable.— Yes; I will often retire from my books to the other delight of my heart, to the remembrance of you, as the only compensation for abstaining from a pardonable excess.
          I do not however apprehend that the health can be affected materially by any ordinary degree of application, and I must not discard

the remembrance that it is the labour to which my life is destined, and which I therefore must not relinquish; that to abandon myself to habits of indolence for the sake of a robuster health, would be to sacrifice a jewel for a pebble, and prove in the end equally degrading to my character and ruinous to my affairs.
          You will perhaps think that I have become very suddenly so rigorous in the estimation of my time, and will remember the time when I was much more indulgent to myself. I readily confess it, but former negligence only increases the necessity for future attention.— For a long interval of idleness my reason accepts the apology of my heart, but at the same time points out the necessity of repairing by present and future industry the losses of that period.— Do not therefore my lovely friend discourage me from the continuance of those pursuits which are suitable to my character and confer upon it its only value; and make yourself perfectly easy with regard to my health, with the assurance that I shall be particularly cautious to avoid any degree of application that will be likely to affect it.
          I mentioned in my last Letter the grounds upon which our union before my own return to America will be impossible, and my opinion that it would not be advisable to propose to your father to come to this Country, in order to embark from hence for America. You may be perfectly sure that your intimations to me on this subject will be held by me in that special confidence which you recommend. Indeed I consider everything that passes between you and me concerning our mutual views and interests, in this light of intimate and exclusive confidence. I write and read every thing of this nature with the idea constantly impressed upon my mind, and persuade myself that you do the same.
          Farewell, my best Friend: I am in hourly Hopes of your Letters, and remain with / constant affection, ever your’s

            A.


Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 1 January 1797
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

            Quincy Jan’y 1 1797

            “O Blindness to the future kindly given
            That each may fill the circle mark’d by Heaven[”]

          The new year opens upon us with new Scenes of Life before us. what are to be the trials the troubles and vexations of it, are wisely with held from our view.

            The universal cause
            Acts not by partial, but by Gen’ral laws
            who sees and follows that great Scheme the best
            Best knows the blessing, and will most be blest

          To him who sits Supreem let us commit the hour the Day the Year, and fearless view the whole. there needs but thinking right, and meaning well, and may this ensure to you, the Souls calm sun shine, and the Heart felt Joy.
          I seldom think twice of a Dreem but last Night I had one of so singular a nature that it has amused My mind to Day with various conjectures. I was riding in my Coach, where I know not, but all at once, I perceived flying in the Air a Number of large black Balls of the Size of a 24 pounder. they appeard to be all directed at me. all of them however burst and fell before they reach’d me, tho I continued going immediatly towards them. I saw them crumble all to Attoms, but During this Scene, two Guns were dischargd at My left Ear the flash of which I saw and heard the report. I still remaind unhurt, but proceedeed undaunted upon My course
          How would the Sooth sayers interpret this Dream?
          whom do you think has undertaken to read the Defence! but Deacon Webb, and declares himself well pleasd with the first volm. as cousin Boylstone informs me.
          I fear the Deleware is frozen up So that Brisler will not be able to send me any flower—
          Billings is just recovering from a visit to Stoughten which has lasted him a week, the Second he has made since you went away. from the first, as he went without the Root of all Evil, he returnd steady. the occasion of his going was the Sickness & Death of the Man who lived upon his place. I have been obliged at his request to purchase for him shirts & other Cloathing.
          Your Mother desires to be rememberd affectionatly to you. one Day last week she walkt here, and spent the Day.
          I am my Dearest Friend most / affectionatly Yours

            A Adams.


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 1 January 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dearest Friend
            Philadelphia January 1. 1797

          I wish the new Year may be the happiest of your Life. Last Night I had a Visit from Dr Rush, whose Tongue ran for an hour.— So many Compliments, so many old Anecdotes. To be Sure, My Election he Said, he had vast pleasure in assuring me Since it had been made certain had given vast Satisfaction in this City and State. Even those who had voted for another had a great Affection for me. Mr Smilie himself had told him this very day that he had an affection for me. He met Mr Madison in the Street and ask’d him if he thought Mr Jefferson would accept the Vice Presidency. Mr Madison answered there was no doubt of that. Dr Rush replied that he had heard some of his Friends doubt it. Mr Madison took from his Pocket a Letter from Mr Jefferson himself and gave it to the Dr to read. In it he tells Mr Madison that he had been told there was a Possibility of a Tye between Mr Adams and himself. If this should happen says he, I beg of you, to Use all your Influence to procure for me the Second Place, for Mr Adams’s Services have been longer more constant and more important than mine, and Something more in the complimentary strain about Qualifications &c
          The Dr then ran on with his Compliments to me and Sarcasms upon W.— This Country would rise in the Estimation of the World and of all Europe, from the 4th. day of March next &c &c &c
          It hurt me to hear this— But his old Griefs and Prejudices Still hang about him. He got disaffected to Washington during the War.
          He has conversed with Dr Edwards and Edwards has told him that Washingtons Character is wholly prostrate in France—that Mr Monroe has been very active and industrious in behalf of his Country. that when his Letters come to be published, they will do him great honour &c. I heard all this with perfect Composure— I only asked if Dr. Edwards had not been Speculating in french revolutionary funds? Oh no was his answer—he believed not. He confessed he had never read the Treaty with England nor one thing in favour of it or against it. he knew not whether it was a good or a bad one. He only disliked the Secrecy with which it was formed negotiated, and ratified—
          All this Chaos, I heard in silence, lamenting to see that the Southern Politicians had got so fast hold of him, he knew not why.
          With regard to my Election he had taken no Part. he had been

neutral— But he had made it a Rule, whenever either Jefferson or myself had been traduced in his Company to vindicate Us both.
          Jefferson and I should go on affectionately together and all would be well— I should Settle all disputes with the French well enough.— These are confidential Communications.
          I have recd no Letter from you the Week past. What Say you to coming along to Eastchester in February and joining me in March.? I cant live without you very well till next July.
          I am most tenderly

            J. A


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 5 January 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dearest Friend
            Philadelphia January 5. 1796 [1797]

          Mrs Swan and her Daughters, conducted by Mrs Otis came into the Senate Chamber this morning to see the Room and Pictures. There I had Opportunities to see for the first time the fair young Ladies.
          I send you Guillotina, the most wanton Muse of the whole ten.—
dreadful Truths are told in jest— Dallas tho, innocent, Dallas is much injured.
          I have now recd Votes from Kentucky the last state: but these could make no Alteration in the Destiny. All was settled before.— More than a Month must intervene before the Declaration can be made. That will be on the 8. Feb.
          Half the Town is out on the Delaware every Day as the whole Town of Amsterdam Used to be on the Amstell, when it was frozen over, Skaeting. I have not seen any Women however in skaets tho many are walking.
          Mr Greenleaf called to see me— He has commenced Suits against Morris & Nicholson for five hundred thousand Dollars. What will be the Fate of all these men I know not nor guess— I hear nothing from smith— I wrote him but get no Answer.— Poor Nabby!
          Charles seems to be very busy— I hope he will get his Bread.—
          Ask Billings, after my Regards to him whether our noble Wall keeps off Captn. Baxters sheep or not.
          My Duty to Mother & Love to all particularly to Louisa.— Ask her if she will come to Philadelphia next Winter?

            J A


Title: Elbridge Gerry to Abigail Adams, 7 January 1797
From: Gerry, Elbridge
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dear Madam
            Cambridge 7th Janry 1797

          I am honored by yours of the 31st of december, & perfectly agree with you, respecting the difficulties to be encountered by our friend in executing the honorable office to which he is appointed. but difficult as it is, when we consider the abilities, integrity, & firmness of the patriot, I think, we have little reason to doubt that his administration will terminate to his honor— if he was weak, versatile, or subject to influence, his enemies, who will always endeavour to be nearest his person, will be the most officious with their information & council, & the most assiduous with their flattery, would soon make him conspicuously ridiculous: but having an opinion of his own, he will establish his principles of conduct, & excepting immaterial deviations which circumstances will sometimes require, he will abide by them, & test thereby the measures of his real & pretended friends.— as much as I respect & esteem Mr Adams, if these were not my sentiments, I could never have wished for his promotion to the presidential chair: because it would prove an ignis fatuus, which would lead him to destruction. but with the qualities which he possesses, like a ship ballasted with iron, he may meet with repeated & violent tempests none of which will be able to upsett him; should however the convulsion of the elements be too great for the best constructed barque, he may, like the best of mariners be overwhelmed, & every good man will lament his fate. this is an hazard, inevitable from the nature of things.
          True it is, that “an assemblage of fortunate circumstances” to favor his administration, “has been the singular lot” of the predecessor in office, & he is in my opinion a very great & good character: but it is said nevertheless & if true to be lamented, that by the wiles of insidious & unprincipled men, he has nominated to offices foreign as well as domestic, some characters which would not bear the public test, & are a reproach to religion, morality, good government & even to decency. he is likewise charged with manifesting a disposition, of extending his power at the expence of the constitution; & notwithstanding the virulence of party has not confined itself merely to the attempt of depriving him of his wellearned laurels, but has attempted to transform his vertues into vices, yet perhaps candor will admit that in both these cases he has not used those

            precautions which have marked his general administration. I must confess however, that wise & politic as it may be to mark the quicksands which have exposed to danger this skilful pilot, I have the highest respect for him; & think there are few if any characters who are his equals in history ancient or modern—
          I have been long acquainted with Mr Jefferson, & conceiving that he & Mr Adams have ever had a mutual respect for each other; conceiving also that he is a gentleman of abilities, integrity, & altho not entirely free from a disposition to intrigue, yet in general a person of candor, & moderation, I think it is a fortunate circumstance, that he is Vice President & that great good is to be expected from the joint elections.
          The insidious plan to bring a third person into the presidential chair, arose from a corrupt design of influencing his administration, as is generally conceived; Whether his want of experience will justify the expectation I will not pretend to say, but sure I am from good information, that the supporters of Mr Jefferson give Mr Adams a decided preference as well for his abilities as his independent spirit—
          I am much obliged to you for your invitation to a friendly visit. Mrs Gerry’s health has of late been so impaired as to confine her during the inclement season: & mine, since an injury which I received two or three years ago in my ancle, has been very indifferent. I shall however embrace the earliest oppertunity for calling on you in the friendly manner you propose. Mrs G desires her respectful comps to you & be / assured Dear Madam I remain / with great esteem & / respect your sincere friend / & hum Serv

            E Gerry


Title: John Quincy Adams to Joshua Johnson, 9 January 1797
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Johnson, Joshua

            Dear Sir.
            The Hague January 9. 1797.

          I received some time since your favour of Novr: 29. and this morning that of Decr: 16. You mentioned in the former your intention to take measures if possible which might secure my wishes, but that you could not fix upon them without first receiving Letters from your partners in America.— Not having it in my power to conjecture what you contemplated, I had hitherto postponed an answer until I should further hear from you as you had the goodness to promise.
          Your Letter of the 16th: ulto: mentions that you were still in expectation of [your] Letters, and intimates a purpose of seeing me at the Hague before you embark for America.— If the object for which you propose to undertake this Journey is to provide an opportunity to terminate my matrimonial union, I regret sincerely the impossibility which will prevent me from concurring in a measure so conformable to my wishes.— My own situation is at present so unsettled and precarious, that the assumption of a family and its necessary appendages would be an act of folly; it is so far from being advantageous in an oeconomical point of view, that I could not add to its indispensable charges without subjecting myself to dependence; a state to which it is my settled Resolution never to submit.— My removal from hence, the only circumstance that could possibly justify my indulgence of my inclinations, has become questionable, and the aspect of Public affairs in America is now such as by no means to encourage in me a dependence even upon a continuance in the public service.— It is an aukward task to unfold the state of ones personal concerns to any Man; but as I thought it not improper to lay open mine to you before my departure from England, as my justification for a determination from which I could not vary, so at the present moment I repeat the same discovery for the same purpose: as you did not disapprove my sincerity on the former occasion, I trust it will be alike satisfactory on the present, as the motives of my determination are the same, and it is taken with equal decision.
          Your opinion upon the subject of Peace appears to have been well founded, at least as far as regards France and Great Britain. The french however have a strong expectation still of making Peace very speedily with the Emperor

          It gives me much concern to hear that the Commission for the settlement of American claims in London is like to terminate so unsuccessfully. I know not what the nature of the obstacles which have stopped their proceedings is.—
          You doubtless know that the French Directory have refused to receive Mr: Pinckney, as Minister of the United States, and you have seen the speech of Mr: Monroe upon delivering his letters of recall and the answer of the french President.
          We have here no news from America later than October. What the issue of the Elections for President and Vice-President may be, it is probable we shall know before long. Those for the House of Representatives will in my opinion be of much greater importance.
          With my affectionate respects and regards to Mrs: Johnson and the young Ladies, I remain, Dear Sir, most sincerely your’s

            John Q. Adams.


Title: John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson, 10 January 1797
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Johnson, Louisa Catherine

            The Hague January 10. 1797.

          How painful it is to me, my amiable friend to feel the assurance that my Letters for which you wait with so much anxious

expectation, when they arrive, can bring to you none but unacceptable news, and that they can relieve you from suspense only by the confirmation of disappointment.
          My Letters of November 19. December 5. 13. 20. and 31. are most probably before this time all in your hands. They will shew that the impediments to our immediate union, are insuperable; that nothing remains for us but resignation and acquiescence to what cannot be remedied, and I hope will at the same time convince you that you may rely as implicitly upon my affection, as you may be assured of my resolution.
          The observations in my letter of December 20. are those which I felt the most reluctance in making, because being sensible how unpleasant their effect must be to you, I could not be sure of giving pain however necessary without sharing it myself, and because I dreaded lest the resolution which really sprung from necessity should in your eyes assume the appearance of unkindness.— I feel the same Sentiment in repeating the same assurance, and it is heightened by the effect of the sensibility expressed in your last Letter.— Indeed my friend, I feel all your regret at our disappointment, with the additional pangs of knowing that relief is impracticable.
          Besides the other uncontroulable objections which I have heretofore intimated to you, against an intention which you have rather given me to understand than avowed, you will be sensible what an appearance in the eyes of the world, your coming here would have; an appearance consistent neither with your dignity, nor my delicacy. You yourself consider it as an extreme expedient in your Letter, and I should therefore not mention my opinion of it in this point of view, if I did not consider the perfect propriety and reserve of your conduct as no less interesting to me than to yourself.
          You will perhaps enquire why I return to a subject which I know must be disagreeable, when I have already sufficiently explained my sentiments concerning it. The reason is, that I find from your fathers last Letter that he had at the time of writing it, the intention of coming to the Hague before he embarks for America. I conclude therefore that you had made him the proposal, and that his anxiety to promote the object of our wishes, and his affection for you prevailed upon him to determine upon this step. I have written to him that the purpose for which I presume he intended the journey is impracticable, as I have written the same to you.— I have not indeed mentioned to him my ideas of the appearance which this measure would have in the opinion of the world. To him, I have no right to

make such observations, because he is the best judge of personal propriety for his own conduct and that of his family. To you, I think myself bound in duty to notice it as I do in the most implicit and exclusive confidence.
          Let us my lovely friend rather submit with cheerfulness to the laws of necessity than resort to unbecoming remedies for relief. Let us acquiesce with resignation in a postponement of our happiness which the course of Events has rendered unavoidable, and which in all probablity will prove ultimately for our own advantage, rather than abandon ourselves to childish weakness or idle lamentations.— We should be indeed unfit for the course of life in prospect before us if we indulged ourselves in dreams of finding all our way strewed with flowers or its borders lined with down. Let us remember that as a certain degree of sensibility to the crosses which we meet is not to be avoided it is not unbecoming; but that the tenderness to feel unless guarded by the Spirit to resist the evils of our lot, can only incapacitate us for exertions necessary to all, and throw us in helpless imbecility at the mercy of every caprice of Fortune.
          Adieu, my dearly beloved friend. Let me know in return to this Letter that you have roused your Spirit and determined to bear with fortitude, what it is vain to lament: assure me of the continuance of your affection, and believe invariably in that of your friend.

            A.


Title: Louisa Catherine Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 10 January 1797
From: Johnson, Louisa Catherine
To: Adams, John Quincy

            London Janry: 10 1797.

          In my last I mentioned having recieved yours of the 13 December, which time our general regulator opposed my answering— Shall I my best friend acknowledge the confession you there make, affords me no small satisfaction. I know not if it is the result of vanity, but am pleased to find a mind energetic as yours, own the theory of fortitude to be easier than the practice—
          I have frequently condemned myself, and been inclined to think I possessed a mind weaker than the weakest of my sex, but to find our

mutual disappointment causes mutual distress, is an alleviation to a heart tortured with self accusation not to be repulsed—
          Permit me to observe your general practice of giving nothing as positive while any uncertainty remains, is an example truely worthy of yourself. Let us in future as much as possible act upon that principle. I am sure it will save us many disappointments— Our doom it appears is fixed— Let us not then repine, but rather by strengthening our minds, be prepared to meet whatever fickle fortune may throw in our way— Secure in your affection I think I am almost equal to any thing— True, reason and affection will have frequent and severe conflicts, yet I flatter myself reason will ultimately return victorious— I think my beloved friend I shall in time become an able philosopher— You say you are more fit to recieve than to give lessons of consolation— Alas I fear the discovery of my unpardonable weakness, has encreased your affection— Let me intreat you to adhere to the resolution you have formed and which I hope to join you in maintaining through life, that of checking and controuling every weakness—
          Be assured my dearest friend, your firm and constant affection is reciprocal— I can experimentally declare, that seperation encreases rather than abates real affection, not but I would willingly have dispensed with its evidence— Your generous and much valued confidence is indeed safely placed, I feel too much interested in whatever relates to you independant of your warm recommendation, to act unworthy the sacred trust reposed in me—
          Our friend Mr: Hall is just returned from Paris I told him what you said and he intends writing on Friday—
          Mama desires to be affectionately remembered she now thinks herself authorized to offer her love. I perfectly agree with her—
          Ah my friend if I could write all I feel—but that is impossible, yet I think if you were here, I could tell you how much how sincerely I love you— But I must conclude or I know not what will become of my boasted philosophy— Adieu love me as I do you, and believe me truely yours

            L. C. Johnson—


Title: Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody to Abigail Adams, 10 January 1797
From: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw
To: Adams, Abigail

            Atkinson January 10th 1797

          Day after day has slid off into the ocean of time, with the Yesterdays beyond the flood, replete with Intentions of writing to my dear, esteemed, much loved Sister. But Sickness, accumalation of family business, & the extreme coldness of the weather has prevented—
          The time alloted for visiting my Friends was much too short, for my feeble constitution. I had been very unwell for three weeks, but as it was the only convenient opportunity we could have this season, I hoped it would not injure me, but I unfortunately found it otherways, for I was obliged to keep my bed, & room for five weeks, & the uncommon severe season has confined me, that I have not been out of the yard since— I was really reduced so low, that I believe, I could not lived a day longer had not the voilence of my disorder abated. Providence has been pleased to spare my life, I hope as a blessing to my Children, & I can scarcely regret my sufferings since it gave Mr Peabody an opportunity of being introduced to my worthy Brother Adams, & my other kind, good relations. Yet pleasing as this Journey was, it had its alloy, & the sensations which it occasioned, were not (perhaps) peculiar to myself—
          The solicitude & anxiety perceptable in the minds of almost every individual member of the community, has subsided, having the pleasing assurance that a real Patriot, a friend to virtuous liberty is the man, whom “his Country delighteth to honour”— I am not sufficiently acquainted with the Characters of Mr Jefferson, & Pinkey to know which, I ought to wish should bear the Palm, only that the one who will act from a principle of duty, steady to his trust, & obstinately good— I sincerely hope that the new elected Majestrates will be as happy in a coincidence of sentiment, as their Predecessors, for it is union which gives power, strength & energy to every kind of Government— But if with great abilities they oppose each other, their situation must be extremely dissagreeable, perplexing, & uncomfortable—
          Whoever speaks of the new election, mentions the choice of Mr Adams with the highest satisfaction & I cannot but Join the general voice, as it evinces gratitude, & respect conffered on merit; & as it opens a wider Field, for greater usefullness, & beneficence for it is the regular, the temperate, & the virtuous who know how to enjoy

prosperity, & not be too much elated by its honours. yet when I consider, that with the laurel, is bound a weight of Cares I cannot but “rejoice with trembling”— with a joy rectified by a full conviction of the instability of human affairs— Should this new election make it necessary for you to remove to the Southward, & be the means of impairing your health, how soon might our Joy be turned into the deepest mourning—
          But I will not dwell a moment upon an[…] so painful— Trusting that wherever duty may lead you, you will have a shield of inward peace accompanying you in the arduous Task, that will secure you from the slanders of an envious world— She who with a sweetness & complacency peculiar to herself, can enter the humble Cottage, & releive the wants of the sick & necessitous, “prevent the asking Eye,” & “cause the widows heart to sing for joy,” will not be immoderately elated with prosperity, but with gratitude, will look up to her almighty Benefactor & view the gracious hand, who in a progressive manner, has raised her up, & safely conducted her through the various steps of life, & crowned her with the most honourable distinctions— May this new year find my Sister happy, & may the great Phisician give her a more confirmed state of health, permiting her for many succeeding years, like the sweet Pliades to shed benign Influences up on every surrounding Object—
          I have been very anxious for my Son. I feared his feet would freeze, for he cannot wear Boots, & he thought there was no need of Legings, what he has done in the Snow for them I cannot think— His time was so short here that I could not fix him with things as I wished to— I think I could not slept any, if I had not considered he was near to the kindest of Sisters who I knew would not let him suffer— I told him to ask you about his geting Cloth for Breeaches, to be sure have something strong, for there is no part of his dress that wears so fast as those, & Shoes— It is almost constant employ, & is like to be so as long as they will have them so small— Upon some account I am glad he has a School, upon others I am sorry—for I am very sure he could no where, be half so much improved & benefited, as in the Family of my Sisters—but though at present he has not that advantage, yet I am not the less thankful to you, for your kind offer— I hope my dear Sister you will not be sparing of your advice to him, nor reproofs if necessary— He will revere every admonition you are pleased to give him— he loves, & considers you as a very kind parent to him—& will (I hope) yield a ready obedience to all your commands—

          At present we have but three boarders— Miss Polly is at Exeter— Cousin Betsy is with us— I find she has not got well of the Stomack ake yet, but is better than when she first came— I believe she enjoys herself here better than she did last winter, got a little more weaned, from her beloved Haverhill—
          I am in great haste, but must beg you to let me hear soon from you, for I believe it never was so long before, since you wrote to your / affectionate Sister

            E Peabody

            Mr Peabody, Cousin, & my Daughters all desire their best regards may be accepted— in the true language of a MOTHER, I must tell you Abby is the best disposed Child, you ever saw— there is innate goodness notwithstanding old Adam, & mother Eve—


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 11 January 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dearest Friend
            Philadelphia January 11. 1797

          on Tuesday when I waited as usual on Mrs W. after attending the Levee, She congratulated me very complaisantly and Affectionately on my Election and went farther and Said more than I expected. She Said it gave them great Pleasure to find that the Votes had turn’d in my favour. &c I doubted whether their Prudence would have ventured so far. I believe it Sincere.
          Ket however the Stewart was very active and busy for Jefferson. This was from Jealousy of Brisler, no doubt. He expected that Jefferson would have taken him, I suppose.— and his Principle was as good as McKeans.
          Gerry is Steady, while so many prove as Slippery as Eels.
          Dined Yesterday with Major Jackson in Company with General Lincoln who lodges there—married to Miss Willing who is an agreable Woman and comfortably provided for by an office, he lives in a neat & elegant Taste: but I believe prudently.

          Mr Ames and a few more, made a very Social set and We enjoyed Ourselves without Alloy—
          The most unpleasant Part of the Prospect before me, is that of remaining here till June or July— I cant see my grass & Barley grow nor my Wall rise— I have however almost forgotten my Farm. it Appears very differently to me.— it seems as if I ought not to think about it—
          The River is frozen so that nothing can get out— Besides flour is dearer here than at Boston by one third It has rained to day like a flood— But the Weather must be very warm and continue so many days before the River can open. There is no probability of it, for some time.
          If it opens in Season I shall Send Some grass Seeds.
          I will not Suffer the Bushes I have cut down to grow again: but I shall not Attend much to my Farm— My whole Time and Thoughts must be devoted to the Public. As long as Trask lives I shall have enough for him to do perhaps.
          I hope Billings will come to himself and get your Wood.
          I think of you & dream of you and long to be with you. But I Suppose this must not be yet.
          My Duty & Love to all

            J. A


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 14 January 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dearest Friend
            Philadelphia Jan. 14. 1797

          Mr Beale called upon me, a few Days ago and left your Letter of Decr. 23d.— Last Evening I presented him to the P. and Mrs W. together with Mr Howard, a son of Dr Howard of Boston.
          You Say Mr H. is very full of his Praises of Mr Monroe— So is Dr Edwards— He Says Mr Monroes Correspondence will do him infinite Honour when it comes to be published—and all that—
          Monroes House has been a School for Scandal against his Country its Government and Governors—Mr Jay and his Treaty &c— Edwards Says, as Dr Rush told me that Washingtons Character was in

total Contempt in France— This I shall not believe till I have better Evidence than that of any or all these great Personages. nay, than all the Directory Ancients and five hundred.
          Mr Madison is to retire— It Seems, the Mode of becoming great is to retire— Madison I Suppose after a Retirement of a few Years is to be President or V. P.— Mr Cabot I suppose, after Aggrandizing his Character in the shade, a few Years is to be some great Thing too— and Mr Ames—&c &c &c It is marvellous how political Plants grow in the shade.— continual Day light & sun shine, Show our Faults and record them. Our Persons Voices, Cloaths, Gate, Air, Sentiments, &c all become familiar to every Eye and Ear & Understanding and they diminish in Proportion, upon the same Principle that no Man is an Hero to his Wife or Valet de Chamber.
          These Gentlemen are certainly in the right to run away and hide— tell Mr Cabot so, if you see him— His Countrymen will soon believe him to be a Giant in a Cave and will go in a Body and dig him out.— I wish, but dont tell Cabot so, that they would dig up Gerry—
          I have bespoke a Chariot and am treating for Horses—
          We read of a Vessell from Rotterdam arrived at salem or its Neighbourhood, by which I hope there may be Letters from our Young friends—as late as the middle of Novr— My Anxiety for Letters from them increases every day. They have more accurate Views, and Intelligence, than any others.— and what is of more importance Still, more Application & Industry.
          The Weather has moderated a little. I am, / with anxious desires to see you, which I fear / cannot be gratified before July, yours forever

            J. A


Title: Ruth Dalton to Abigail Adams, 14 January 1797
From: Dalton, Ruth
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dear Madam
            Washington January 14. 1797

          Your kind letter should not have lain so long unanswered had I not impatiently waited for the event so much wished by me, an event which to myself and Family gives great pleasure, and I beg leave to congratulate you with the greatest Sincerity
          I am happy to find the Country have not forgot to be grateful to so good a Man, and firm Friend. I have no doubts but the place of our Worthy and great President will be well filled by him. With confidence I can say that had He had the appointment it would have fallen as it has
          I joyn with you that the task will be an arduous one. I however feel so much confidence in the Abilities, and am so sure of his good intentions to do what is right, that I am quite easy.
          That there will not be wanting many who will try to plant thorns in the way I am sure, but I pray they may meet their proper rewards. That your Health may be Adequate to your task is my sincere wish, and if that should be the case, I think there will not be any thing wanting in that part of the Administration.
          I wish the time had been nearer that Congress is to come to this City, as I am sure you would regain your health in this Montpelier of America. I flatter myself I shall be so happy as to see you here soon as, I can assure you it will be expected from the President. It has been one reason given in this quarter against his Election that he would not be a Friend to the City, and that he would not Visit it: both of which I Ventured to affirm was false, and I hope there will be no occasion for my Veracity to be called in question, and that I may not be disapionted the pleasure, and if I may now hope, the Honor, of seeing you at my House, where you can not doubt of a sincear welcome
          It would give me great pleasure to be near to you. I wish it was like to be the case. I regret very much that your Health is not more firm, but hope by this time you find yourself relieved from the feverish complants that so have long affected you, and in the Spring quite recovered, and by haveing an healthy situation in Philadelphia you will be very happy, and meet the rewards of the many Sacrifices you have made for the good of your Country, which we are very sensible off.
          Mr Dalton, and my dear Daughters, joyn me in sincear

Congratulations and best wishes for your Health and happiness. Love to Miss Smith.
          Polly Tailor is with me, but not more happy than usual, says she will go to House keeping in the Spring, but since the late event has taken place She talks in her way of paying you a Visit in Philadelphia. I fear She never will acquire a placid Temper, and I am sure her present disposition can never make her Friends— She is I think very much to be pitied I often tell her so to very little effect. She begs me to present her thanks to you for your good wishes. if you will please to Say to Mrs Brisler She is very Sorry for her loss
          It always gave me pleasure to be with you, and I never wished the happiness more than I do at this time, as the Vice President used to say we should have a great deal to talk about. I hope that time will soon arive till when and ever, / and affectionately.— / I am very truly, / Dear Madam / Your Friend

            Ruth Dalton


Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 15 January 1797
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

            my Dearest Friend
            Quincy Janry 15 1796 [1797]

          The Cold has been more severe than I can ever before recollect. it has frozen the ink in My pen, and chilld the Blood in my veins, but not the Warmth of My affection for Him for whom my Heart Beats with unabated ardor through all the Changes and visisitudes of Life, in the still Calm of Peace Feild, and the Turbelent Scenes in which he is about to engage, the prospect of which excite, neither vanity, or Pride, but a mixture of anxiety and solisitude, which soften, but do not Swell the Heart.
          By the last Post I receivd Yours of December 27th & 30. Janry 1 & 3d The extract from mr Madisons Letter I believe to be the genuine sentiments of Mr Jeffersons Heart. tho wrong in Politicks, tho formerly an advocate for Tom Pains Rights of Man, and tho frequently mistaken in Men & Measures, I do not think him an insincere or a corruptable Man. My Friendship for him has ever been unshaken. I have not a Doubt but all the Discords may be tuned to harmony, by the Hand of a skillfull Artist. I See by the paper of to Day that the extract is publishd in the Centinel, not through Eve, I assure you, for I have not disclosd it. it has gaind as Most storys Do, that mr J.

declares he would not have taken the Vice Pressidency under any other Man. the writer adds not unaptly, from shakspear,

            “the Event we hope will
            Unite the Roses Red and White together
            That on one kind and Friendly Stalk, they both may flourish”

          My Authority for the Author of Aurelias, was William Shaw who going one Day into Nancreeds Book store saw a young Gentleman correctting the press. Nancreed introduced him to William as the Writer of Aurelias and gave him one of the Books; notwithstanding this, he may only, as he has on former occasions for our son be the Channel only, to convey & foster the ospring of an other.
          You ask me what I think of comeing on in Feb’ry? I answer that I had rather not if I may be excused. I have not for Many Years enjoyd so good Health as this Winter. I feel loth to put it to risk by passing a spring in Philadelphia. I know not what is to be Done. I think an inventory ought to be taken of what belongs to the United States a House ought to be provided and furnishd in such a Manner as they chuse, or a Committe appointed to Do it, if a sum Should be granted for the purpose. I desire to have nothing to Do with it. there are persons who know what is both necessary & proper. if this is Done I should not be against going to assist in the arrangement of the Household.
          I will make the necessary inquiry respecting a Carriage and write you word as soon as I can obtain information. my old Chariot, I have purchased Runners and put it on. Dr Tufts Says it must never be hung again. it has long been too shaby for use. I was beholden to My Neighbours for a conveyance before I got them. it answers very well for that purpose. the Sleighing is remarkable fine and has been so for more than a Month. I have had one Succession of visiters & company, more than for any two years past. every Body who ever knew one comes to pay compliments & visit who would not have been so forward perhaps . . . . a little prematurely too, but it shews their good wishes.
          I see no prospect of the fall of any article. Grain is as high as ever and all West India articles risen beyond bounds. Such Sugars as were purchased last Winter at 12 Dollors pr hundred are now 18. Loaf Sugar 2/6 pr pd. Tea Coffe Chocolat risen in proportion. at this rate we must be Starved if the House of Reps have not a sense of Justice before their Eyes.

          What is to be Done with our places? I have not advertized, nor have I seen Vinton or French since you went away. Burrel I believe will stay on if we find him a yoke oxen & cart. he has not had a Drop of water since last july. Billings is getting steady. he had but a Small flight this last time, but he wants his Money as fast as he earns it
          I have been so much hindred by company that I have not been able to write for these ten Days only one short Letter to you.
          I took up the Note and Destroyd it.
          I inclose You a Letter from an old Friend it contains some just sentiments. I need not say to you how necessary it is to lay ones finger upon their Lips—and to be upon our gaurd with all foreign Characters, and most domestick ones— I want to acquire an habit of silence, or of saying unimportant things.
          We have had a Wedding in our Family too in the last week which has occupied some part of my Time. Nancy Adams was married on thursday last, and to Day the New married pair dinned with me. Mr and Mrs Shaw are here upon a visit to keep Sabbeth with me, and desire their Respects to you— I am Sitting up after all are a bed to write you that tomorrows post may not go without a Letter. you will write me and inform me what I must Do, or what you wish— Cabot says I must go on or all the Wheels will Stand Still, but I know better.—
          Yours most affectly

            Abigail Adams

            return the Letter when read


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 16 January 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dearest Friend
            Philadelphia January 16. 1797

          I went Yesterday to hear Dr Priestley, in the Philosophical Hall of the University and there I met unexpectedly with Dr Euwing and Dr

Andross or Andrews. Euwing Seems paralytic and falling very fast. The Drift of the Discourse was to shew the Superiour moral Tendency of the Jewish and Christian Religions, to that of all the Pagan Rituals ancient and modern.
          The Weather is moderated. I hope to find a Letter from you this Morning when I go to the senate.
          Inclosed is a List of the best natured Toasts I ever read. They were Sent me in a Baltimore Paper. They are peculiarly indulgent to me, as they allow me, Salmon & Lobster in Addition to Hog, Homminy, Mush, Milk and Cider. There is no Malice in any of them. An Old Fielder is a tough hardy laborious little Horse, that Works very hard and lives upon very little. very Useful to his Master at small Expence.
          Priestly has written something in answer to Volneys Ruins of Empires, which has been more universally read in England than any of his Writings.
          I begin to long for Letters from the Hague. Our next must be important.
          It is not probable, that Dr Wests Year 1796 has wholly Stripped the Pope of his Temporalities.
          The French People in this Country, Seem to be disappointed and a little confounded, at the Strong Ground which has been taken by the People of this Country in Consequence of Mr Adets Note. There have been no Signs of dismay, except among the Quakers and a few weak merchants in Philadelphia, at the time of the Election.
          I, am affectionately and perpetually / your faithful

            J. A


Title: Louisa Catherine Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 17 January 1797
From: Johnson, Louisa Catherine
To: Adams, John Quincy

            London Janry: 17 1797

          I have recieved your very decisive letter of 20th December, which has astonished and mortified me so much, that I can scarcely believe you recollected to whom you were writing—
          You seem to complain of a want of confidence on my part, and tell me it is what you have repeatedly solicited and what you again think it necessary to recommend— Surely you cannot imagine the authoritative stile of your letter, at all calculated to inspire this confidence did I even know what you mean by it, I am very sorry to discover that we have not perfectly understood each other and to find it requisite to demand an explanation.
          In regard to what I said respecting our visit to Holland, you appear to have indulged unnecessary apprehensions. I have cautiously avoided repeating the hint, though my kind and honored Parents, anxious for our mutual happiness, occasioned too by a letter to my father wherein you say, “In consequence of his departure for America you shall be compelled to relinquish the hopes so fondly raised, and which were so essential to your future happiness,[”] generously told me that his affairs might oblige him to quit England, and if it would tend in any degree to alleviate my distress, offered to embark from thence that we might have the satisfaction of meeting once more, which satisfaction I fondly and foolishly imagined would have been mutual— had my hopes been such as your fears have magnified in my wish of seeing you in Holland, your rejection might have been softened by a declaration on your part, of the probable time of our continued seperation, the die is however cast, I go to America, you to your embassy, where I ardently pray the great disposer of events,

to grant that peace to your bosom which mine has, and will be long a stranger to untill that period arrives which will prove, that “I am as incapable of betraying affection or slighting engagements as of breaking a determination decidedly adopted”— In this sentiment I am proud to acknowledge myself as firm as you—
          Do not suppose that this letter proceeds from any change in my affection— no my best friend rather esteem it a proof of the sincerity of my attachment. rest assured that the woman who is capable of calmly submiting to recieve such a letter without asserting sufficient spirit to answer it, is not cannot be worthy your esteem—
          I have been very much surprized at the frequent repetition of the words suspicion and distrust in your last and several of your former letters, I cannot concieve what you mean by them or to what you allude— I certainly have never given you cause to make use of these very kind and tender expressions, heaven knows I have never doubted your affection, and I cannot concieve why you should suspect mine, never could I for one moment suppose you capable of betraying affection or slighting engagements, and I know you too well to doubt, your ever varying from a purpose deliberately formed and decidedly adopted— But why write to me in this stile? did I ever give you reason to believe I feared your betraying my affection? is it my too great anxiety to see you that has created this suspicion and distrust? surely surely no, it cannot be. you have too high an oppinion of yourself, and I trust not so contemptible a one of me, as to suffer yourself to harbour an idea so derogatory to my feelings so unjust to your own merit—
          Never my friend may we meet while there is a doubt on either side, for it would too surely prove a source of endless misery to us both—
          Your letter has caused me such real uneasiness, that I think myself obliged to be very clear and explicit on a subject which you must be covinced is so very important to our future happiness—
          Perhaps I have too severely felt the pontive commanding stile of your letter, from being totally unacquainted with any thing of the sort. you mention the tender indulgence I have always experienced from my family at the moment you are writing so unkindly—
          I have endeavored to discover by retracing my conduct, what part of it can have given rise to a manner so very different from what I have always recieved I confess it has been vain, unless my affection has been too warmly expressed, my love too candidly avowed—
          You quote a part of my letter of July 25th in which I request you

not to see me unless I am permited to accompany you to Lisbon you then say you do not charge me with inconsistency when I express a wish to meet you once more before our embarkation surely the case is very different, I had not then encouraged the slightest hope of attending you, therefore should not have been disappointed. your answer led me to believe I should go with you, which belief most of your succeeding letters tended to confirm. I was prepared to recieve you with the fondest expectation, when instead of beholding you, my best and dearest friend, I encountered that cruel disappointment, and all my illusive dreams of happiness immediately vanished. I was ill. I could not bear this trial with the calmness and patience I ought to have exerted, and thought if I could see you but for a few days, I should acquire fortitude and resignation to endure our lengthened seperation. but even this was not enough. you my beloved friend to whom I looked for every indulgence, from whom I least expected unkindness, I must say have added to the poignancy of my distress, by the peremptory harshness so evidently displayed throughout your letter—
          I had flattered myself from a letter I recieved on a former occasion, I should have escaped the pain attending explanations of this nature. Yet while I think it a duty incumbent on myself to declare my opinion with the utmost candour my heart revolts at the necessity, and feels too sensibly how much it will wound you—
          The generosity of your sentiments charm and delight me, they are a proof of the goodness of your heart, and of that honor it is my glory to see you possess—
          I understand that your father is elected President, by a majority of five votes. I congratulate you with pleasure, as it is a mark of distinction which is highly flattering. though I own I think it dearly purchased at the present crisis of affairs—
          Adieu, that every happiness may await you, is the constant and heartfelt prayer of your truely and sincerely faithful,

            Louisa C. Johnson


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 18 January 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dearest Friend
            Philadelphia January 18. 1797

          I recd, Yesterday by the Post, the inclosed Letter, which excites a hope of more by the Same Ship.
          There is a curious Mass of matter in fermentation at this Time. The French and Spaniards are as injurious as ever the English have been. Washington retires and his Sucessor will have but a majority of three Votes at most. and as if, it were to irritate every feeling nerve a Land Tax must be discussed, at this moment and the Debtor States must be called on for their ballances. The People of America, must awake out of their golden dreams, consider where they are, and what they are about. The foolish Idolatry of France and Paine which Russells Paper, has encouraged as much as any other, has brought Us into Snares and dangers which We might have avoided. We must assume more Decorum than to run after foreign Ministers as if We were their Slaves or Subjects. The Ignorance in which our People will keep themselves of the true Character of the french Nation in general and of their present Government as well as all their former Governments Since the Revolution, is astonishing.
          I must wade through all these Difficulties or be overpowered by them. And if the Case should happen that I should get Safely or even tryumphantly through, it will be forgotten in one month that I had any hand in it—judging of the future by the past.—
          Oh no! it will not be forgotten. My Friends will remember it— Ay and my Ennemies too. They remember too well, for their comfort tho they deny.
          Mr Jay, if I mistake not, will be a glorious Being in this Country before very long.
          Mr Volney talks a bolder and freer Language about French affairs than I Should expect. He Says the Directory will be changed for one Director and be chosen for ten Years, which he considers, as for perpetuity. He Says all the Members of the Constituant Assembly in 1789 will be elected into the Legislature at the next Election. &c &c— This I have from Mr Burr, who wonders at it. What would I give to Spend / the Evening at your fireside

            J. A


Title: John Adams to William Stephens Smith, 18 January 1797
From: Adams, John
To: Smith, William Stephens

            Dear Sir
            Philadelphia January 18th: 1797—

          I Received yesterday your kind Letter of the 13th and Return you and yours the Compliments of the Season and Thanks of your Congratulations on the Probability of a Cartain Election the felicities or infelicities of what Events however are Hidden from our Vew by that impenetrable Veil which Covers Futurity the Prospect at Present is not very bright a Country Impotent at Sea tho Powerful at Land indignantly Sees itself Injured with Circumstances of Contempt and Insolence by more Then one foreign Nation and will hardly be Persuaded to bleive That it is not more or less the fault of thair Government Tho that Should be administered with all the zeal Diligence Fidelity and Skill that its administraters Profess if I am in, I Cannot retreat and indeed I would not if I Could for I May as will mount a breach as another and if it falls to my Lot it will not be my

fault and I will rely on the Spirit and Resources of my Country—and the Blesing of Providence I have alredey as Good a Coach as I wish and as I must have a Chareat I have ingaged a Good one here in Case I Should want it I want two Pair of Bay Horses and have written to Mr Abraham Hunt of Trinton and mr Drake of Brunswick Mr Hunt whose answer I have Received Cannot at Present Supply me from mr Drake I have no answer if you Hear of one or more Pairs I Should be Glad you would inform me of them and thair Prices
          I am not able to Say that Little Suzen is the Greatest beauty I Ever See But I know I have two Charming Little Grand Daughters both of wich appear beautiful in my Eyes they are both “fine Crosses” your kind wishes for my Success and Prosperity are Very Obliging and are Returned by mine for yours the Socratic Philosophy, the Roman Empire the Christian Religion all great things Have begun by being Despised our Nation began in Contempt and altho it Punished that offence in one Nation it is not yet Sufficiently Respected
          I hope we Shall not have to make another Nation Repent of her insolence at So great an Expence of Blood Treasure Labour— I am Sir affectionate yours