Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Morgan, 6 October 1791
From: Morgan, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
6 October 1791

Agreeably to my instructions from the Director of the Library Company of Philadelphia, I have the honor of communicating to you the following copies of their Resolutions.
At a special Meeting of the Directors January 18th 1791
“The Directors of the Library Company of Philadelphia desirous of shewing a respectful mark of attention to the President and Congress of the United States—Resolve that the President, and Members of the Senate and of the House of Representatives of the United States shall have the free use of the Books in the Library in so full and ample a manner as if they were Members of the Company—”
At a Meeting of the Directors October 6th: 1791
“Resolv’d—that the Resolution of the 18th of January last be extended to the present Congress of the United States and that the Secretary be directed to furnish a Copies of the said Resolution to the President of the Senate and to the Speaker of the house of Representatives.”

Benjamin R MorganSecretary to the Directorsof the Library Companyof Philadelphia


Title: To John Adams from Bailey Bartlett, 8 October 1791
From: Bartlett, Bailey
To: Adams, John

Sir
Haverhill Octo. 8th 1791

At the request of Capt. McFarland, the bearer of this letter I have taken the liberty to address your Honour on his behalf.  The early and active part he took in his Countrys service during the contest with Great Brittain; the commissions he has been hond with, and the wounds he recd—in its defence, his commissions and the Pentioners certificate will certify.  as a Citizen and Townsman he has ever been held in the highest esteem by all who knew him—A fellow feeling for a brother Officer in destress Induced him to become surety for him for a considerable sum which on failure of the principal he was Oblidged to sell the pay he recd from Government for services at the rate of 2/10 & 3/ on the pound to discharge the debt—This with the addition of a large family to support has Oblidged him to sell or morgage the greater part of what real Estate he was possessed of previous to the war.  The wound he received at Bunker Hill renders him unable to procure a subsistance by manual labour. The earnest desire he has to serve his Country in some capacity where he can be of more service than living an Idle life on the small pittance allowed him as a Pentioner has Induced him to request the Influence of his friends for that purpose.  I am well acquainted with him do believe him to be a man of Honor and Integrity and as such, If his services merit a place w... can be of more service to his country and himself  present situation I am sure your Influence  not be wanting.  Relying on your goodness  Apology for the liberty I have taken in Introducing Capt. McFarland to your Honour, who I am sure will have a grateful remembrance of all favours—
I take the liberty to subscribe / your Honours / most Obedt /  Humble s

Bailey Bartlett


Title: To John Adams from John Montgomery, 14 October 1791
From: Montgomery, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Boston 14th October 1791

By special request of my Brother at Alicante I have the Honour of communicating to your Excellency in his name of the demise of the Dey of Algeirs on the 12th of July, and that the Minister Ali Hassan Who Was always Mr Montgomery friend is now Dey and that Sir. Soliman an Algerun Nobleman Who paid him a Visit at Alicante is promoted in consequence
from those circumstances Mr Montgomery has no doubt that Something might be don at this Critical period towards a peace if proper measures were adopted by Congress—Interim I have the Honour to remn. / sir / Your Excellencys / Obt Humbl.  Servt

John Montgomery


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Meredith, 25 October 1791
From: Meredith, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Treasury of the United States October 25th. 1791

My Accots from the 1st October 1790 to the 30th June 1791 having passed the Offices, & been reported in, permit me thro you to lay them before the Hnble. the Senate, and at the same time to inform them, that my Specie & Indent Accots. from the 1st July to the 30th Septemr are at the Treasury for settlement, and when passed in, will be immediately handed you
I have the honor to be with perfect / Respect / Sr / Your Most humble servt

Saml Meredith Treas of the United States


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Brand Hollis, 26 October 1791
From: Hollis, Thomas Brand
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Octo 26 1791 The Hide.

I have waited with impatience to hear from you as the begining of Feb: I sent a Box containing the 2d. vol Gerradaccis History of Bologna. you have been in search after it for some time; I met with it by accident in the city & am pleased to complete your copy you deserve it more than any having brought it into light Paradisum Voluptatis a real fact.  what a pleasing article it would make in the Philadelphia gazeeteer. the book is very scarce it is not in Crofts nor Beauclerks catalogue, it is in consul Smith’s, with it a few tracts & some papers for my amiable Friend Mrs Adams with a Dolphin catched at Harvard—the Box was sent the 12 feb: by captain Billington the Ship called the Apollo for Philadelphia.  I hope the Dolphin swam safe to her, with my best complimts, & entertain’d her.
wonderful events have taken place since you left Europe & beyond our expectation but not our wishes.  Having secured the Church by making the Priests salaried & informed, the army they were citizens as well as soldiers & that men were to be distinguishd only by actual merit & services—titles being burdens useless to the state & their nobles hereditary tyrants, all necessary reforms would succeed—For but very lately could a french man conceive that the happiness & liberty of 30 millions of people were of more importance than the pomp & power of one man alone.
The Flight of the King & his return has totally ruined the Aristocrats had he escaped, the trial would have been over with the loss of some thousands.  The New assembly is much esteem’d by the people & will pursue the plan of the constituent Assembly so that the Democrats are stronger than before.  What think you now of a Royal republick This is as superior to Nieushattel as the extent of France is to the Swiss canton.
more than one house would, have been impossible as the upper one with the present principles would have tore the other in peices.
you who are well read in plato must be sensible how much the French are obliged to him their principles maxims rights & priveledges, are all taken from his writings and Laws, some Americans also were indebted to him & own’d it, & it does honour to all who have so done to bring into effect principles wch are the produce of one of the first of men near 3 thousand years agoe—rules of justice and natural jurisprudence, but his times were not worthy of him & they had no Idea that a great nation could speak by their representatives—Taylor is translating all Plato.—How desirable it would have been that Plotinus his Disciple had obtained leave of that wretch Gallienus to have built Platonopilis & to have been govern’d by the laws of Plato.
It would be an amusing performance to trace parallel principles & Laws.
The spirit of enquiry is abroad and cannot be dampt but to break out with greater force.  Plato was thankful that he lived in the time of socrates. I am most thankful that I have seen the things of this day & their Issue for now I have no fears.  tho probably this will be the last country which will profit.
The French have gone on so prudently & strenously that it is not likely they will make any essential alterations.  no resentment or revenge seem to have operated with them, without levelling their Nobility they could not have effected any good essential.
I am not fond of your Mediator—a single person may run away but it is more likely he may ride. The French assembly by their caution confirms me in my principles power is dangerous to be trusted in one hand.
I rejoice to hear that perfect calm & contentment reigns in every part with you; France now enjoys the same without the necessity of an adequate remedy against competitions, which do not exist.  after Death the works of Great men follow them the Living are to be satisfied with having done their duty.
many thanks for the Books & Papers you sent me by General Mansel & Mr Knox, were most acceptable.  Burke & Payne’s book have occasioned most valuable discussions & truth which fears no trial comes out the stronger.—Burke has been defeated by several. I am ashamed to mention the enormous outrages at Birmingham it is a disgrace to this country & a reproach to the Church; that some of the best citizens & one of the first Philosophers should be markd out for objects of malice & revenge; but I hope this persecution will operate for good as the Riots against the R Catholicks promoted their cause & gain’d them redress.  the remedy is plain & just—annul the test Laws & there would be no more persecution.
Nedham is in high repute in France & is translated The excellent Dr Price lived not to see the N. assembly but he rejoiced to have seen what he did & maintaind constantly that God was good.
Mrs Macaulay departed the night before the Kings flight but left a spirited answer to Burke.
it is reported that a nation lately emancipated has proposed with the assistance of 20 men of war to give liberty to the Spanish colonies.
What a fine revenge, for assisting America & the insult from Nootka Sound.
Col Smith I saw very little of so cautious & reserved that one might imagine he had read Payne.  one would think a distinction between friends & foes is easy to a Diplomatick—I hope he is returned safe & well & the little Hollis & mother are also well.  my River is enlarged and increased as is my Library in useful books but the rage for splendid Editions is not lessen’d. The illness & approaching dissolution of my excellent friend Mr Timy Hollis prevented me going to Paris and since some unfortunate circumstances tho it is my desire & inclination; but I hope this winter to pass some time there for the revolution of America & since the New constitution of France have kept up my spirits which otherwise would have been low indeed if I had depended on the situation & principles of this country.
The Life of Payne is wrote by a American Secretary to a Lord in office some truth with much untruth all regarding me is notoriously false never having seen the book till printed—
Let me have the satisfaction to hear from you that you are all well & happy.
I should not forget to give due praise to Dr Priestley who supports his losses with fortitude & dignity has reed many approbations.  all his manuscripts & apparatus & Library the work of years totally lost & destroyed & never to be recovered!
Mackintosh a young man of 23 has produced a very capital book vindiciæ Gallicæ.
The French revolution engages all our attention indeed the human species is interested in their success—the world never produced the like, the consequence of Printing—preserve it sacred & unrestrained & the communication of sentiments free and not burden’d with postage when you think of your committees of correspondence.
pray what is the state of the Libraries in Philadelphia I understand there are two? of Roman or Greek medals imagine there are none.
I am Dear Sir / with great Esteem / your sincere Friend
T. Brand Hollis
Think of the Revolution of Poland—all good is possible.


Title: From John Adams to George Washington, 31 October 1791
From: Adams, John,United States Senate
To: Washington, George

Sir,
United States October the 31st: 1791.

The Senate of the United States have received with the highest satisfaction the assurance of public prosperity contained in your Speech to both Houses: the multiplied blessings of providence have not escaped our notice or failed to excite our gratitude.
The benefits which flow from a restoration of public and private confidence are conspicuous and important and the pleasure with which we contemplate them is heightened by your assurance of those further communications which shall confirm their existance and indicate their source.
Whilst we rejoice in the success of those military operations which have been directed against the hostile indians, we lament with you the necessity that has produced them, and we participate the hope that the present prospect of a general peace, on terms of moderation and justice, may be wrought into complete and permanent effect, and that the measures of government may equally embrace the security of our frontiers and the general interests of humanity; our solicitude to obtain, will ensure our zealous attention, to an object so warmly espoused by the principles of benevolence, and so highly interesting to the honor and welfare of the nation.
The several subjects which you have particularly recommended and those which remain of former Sessions will engage our early consideration; we are encouraged to prosecute them with celerity and steadiness by the belief, that they will interest no passion, but that for the general welfare, by the assurance of concert and by a view of the arduous and important arrangements which have been already accomplished.
We observe, Sir, the constancy and activity of your zeal for the public good. The example will animate our efforts to promote the happiness of our Country.
By order of the Senate

John AdamsVice President of the United States, and President of the Senate.


Title: From John Adams to Joseph Brown, Jr., 8 November 1791
From: Adams, John
To: Brown, Joseph, Jr.

Sir
Philadelphia Novr. 8th. 1791.

By what accident it happened I know not, but your kind letter of the 6th. of August never came to my hand till the 7th of this month of Novr. before which time the vacancy in the Office of Collector of the Port of Charleston was filled.  But if even that event had not happened it is probable that no representation of mine concerning a Gentleman in your State, of whose character and accomplishments & connections my knowledge must be very imperfect, would have had much weight with the President in comparison with the gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives from the neighborhood.  I thank you Sir for your personal civilities to me.  I doubt not America will continue to reward me as generously as she has ever done.  For my posterity I wish no other rewards or honors than their talents and virtues may merrit from a free and enlightened people; and that the same rewards may be obtained by you, and every other worthy citizen, is the sincere wish of Sir, / Your most obedt / and most humble sert.

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Alexander Hamilton, 18 November 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adams, John

Sir:
Treasury Department, November 18, 1791.

In pursuance of the order of the Senate, I have the honor to transmit a return of the imports of the United States, so modified as to convey a considerable portion of the information which I conceive they require. I beg leave to observe, that this document is a part of a set of papers relative to imports, exports, and tonnage, which have been some time in preparation at the treasury. Some others, which are completed, will be transmitted to the Senate as soon as they shall have been transcribed.
I have the honor to be, sir, with the greatest respect, your most obedient and most humble servant,Alexander Hamilton,Secretary of the Treasury.


Title: From John Adams to George Morgan, 20 November 1791
From: Adams, John
To: Morgan, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia Novr 20—1791.

I have this morning, Receiv’d your kind letter of the 15 of May, from the hand of Mr: Cazinave, who arrived here from Bayonne a few days ago.  Among the many mourners for Dr. Price, I believe myself to be one of the most sincere in America because my esteem and affection for him was the result not only of his writings, but of a personal knowledge of his many virtues and endearing social qualities.  I have agreed with Mr Cazinave to present him to Genl Washington on Tuesday next, and shall be happy in any other opportunity of doing them any little service that may be in my power.  That these partners will add to the Wealth of America and find their emolument in it, I have no doubt.  The commerce and wealth of this country grew as fast as its population and fame; I wish I could be sure that its virtues and Wisdom would encrease in the same ratio.  Will you do me the favor to remember my regards to all my acquaintance at Hackney and elsewhere And Mrs Adams requests the same favor.  This Letter will probably be favor’d, by Mr Morris, the eldest son of my friend Mr. Robt: Morris, a Senator of the US. and formerly the famous financier.
With much esteem I am Sir your friend / And Hum Servant

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Rodney, 20 November 1791
From: Rodney, Thomas,Rodney, Caesar Augustus
To: Adams, John

Dr. Sir
Dover Bastile Novr: 20th 1791

Be not offended that I write to you from the Cells of a Bastile—You are Acquainted with the Chief Justice of Pensylvania, and if my own sentiments does not inform you, He can, inform you Whether I am worthy Your attention or not—  And however I may be viewed myself, I view you and him as having co-operated in the same principles through the Revolution and as Two shining stars in that political American Constitution which perchance it may be hereafter Considered the most Elustrious that ever has arisen in the World; as being the Authors of perhaps the greatest and most awfull revolutions that hath ever appeared in it at least since the flood.
I have read only the first volume of your late writings, and I consider that labour as a Rich and valuable Present to the World; There is no light that can be cast on the human Mind more valuable than that of revealing to it the Conduct of past ages; to shew them how various Nations in various Circumstances have Organized & conducted that Machine of Government.  In doing this you have laid down the principles which affoard every Man who reads them An opportunity of Judging for himself, with the same freedom and from the same source that you have drawn your Own Observations; and whether he Agrees with you or Not he is greatly Indebted to you for that information which Enables him to Judge for himself, and the work is not the less valuable for any difference of Opinion that may arise on the premisses between the Author and his readers.  The great Aim is to instruct the human mind the domination of Tyrany, is preserved by the Superior knowledge of the few Over the Ignorance of the Many, but light & knowledge will always brake the bonds of Tyrany Yet it is seldom that a people are sufficiently Enlightened to Act like few men on the light of reason only; therefore Tyrany is seldom opposed untill a people are seized by the feelings arising from its severe oppression.  but the Americans were singular in this respect their opposition was founded on knowledge and the light of reason they felt little oppression; so far from it they were in a state of great felicity but they saw by the light of Reason that the Principle of Mastery & Domination Claimed by great Brittain would place them in a State of slavery & subject them to every Evil their Masters Chose to impose upon them; they therefore preferred leaping at once out of felicity into danger and difficulty to preserve those rights Which they knew were the foundation of their felicity.  There rights Sir I am well pursuaded. You have supported and defended too steadfastly and too solemnly ever to desert them; for if you were to desert them it would be a self condemnation of all that you have done in their favour: but what mode or manner of Government is best and safest to preserve those rights? is a question that Politicians and Statements have differed in Opinion about in all Ages; and the natural rights of Man have been preserved in different Countries in different ways; It is Certainly then a valuable Labour to shew a free people who have just Assumed the Charge of their Own rights; the various ways that have been pursued in other free Nations; and no doubt upon this view a variety of different opinions will naturally arise, but Sir this does not lessen the value of the work in my view, because each mind is Enlightened and directed according to their various capacities to the same Object tho’ they may prefer different routs.
The Domination of a despotic Monarch forms the Extreme on one hand: The Domination of the people in their simple democratic capacity forms the Extreme on the other hand.  Some where between these two extremes, is placed the Medium which may best preserve the Equal rights of the Community; And this perhaps depends much on the Extent & particular Circumstances of the Community.  For it is Certain that a Community of Ten or a hundred Men would be governed most happily, and most safely, in the state of simply Democracy—but when the society increases and Extends so as to require a select and special government, then the difficulty Occurs how to form and Constitute this so that the Equal rights of the Community may be best Secured. and here arises the cause of various opinions;  but the more light and knowledge a people have the better it may be supposed the Majority will determine therefore the Utmost freedom of sentiment and opinion on this subject is Necessary to disseminate that knowledge which is Necessary to direct the Majority to determine in the best Manner; for as was Observed before the Ignorance of the many always tends to the Tyrany of the few who are better informed—The dominion of Man over the Animals that are much stronger than he is, Certainly is owing to his superior knowledge—so the superior knowledge of the few gives them the dominion over the many who are Ignorant; light and knowledge is therefore Essential to liberty But why Am I saying all this to you Sir when it is only what you already know?  It is only to shew you Sir that I am aware of the value of that work which proves your desire of preserving the liberty of your Country by Enlightening the minds of a few people.
The Federal Government seems to have been formed much after the Manner of the sentiments you express in your first Volume; yet I find some of the Advocates of that Government seem now to think your political Principles heretical; this is being less favourable to you than I am who was not an Advocate for that Government I thought it best to Improve the system that carried us thro’ the war without Altering from its principles; for I did not like to risk the Independance of America on so great a Change as was proposed, but seeing that the greater murmurs of the wise men of America were for the Change I did not oppose it, but hoped it would turn out for the best—And as I saw the people greatly oppressed I was in hopes it would affoard relief—And in respect to those immediately Interested in the department of Government and the public funds it has effected great relief, by the Establishment of a permanent revenue—And great benefit hath been extended to the country by the effects of a Regulated and increasing Commerce—but no great benefit has yet been felt from the Judicial department of that Government; Individual redress being Chiefly administered still by the state Government—And it has been from this sorce that the people have felt the heaviest Oppression; and much of it still remains in those states Which have not yet reformed their Police, and Especially in the one I belong to—I have felt myself the utmost force of this kind of Oppression. After being plundered of more than Twenty thousand pounds, of my brothers Estate left in my hands & my own I am obliged to submit to the Invidious Chambers of the Bastile; but my case has been peculiar and is grounded on political motives; it is the Price I have paid for my friendship to the Revolution; but Sir I will not trouble you with my Complaints, the Philosophic mind must suffer what it cannot avoid.
I was but a little over twenty years old when the first Congress met at New York but My brother Cæsar, was able with the proceedings to Communicate to me the knowledge that had been exhibited there and particularly from Mr. James Otis of Masichusetts; it was this which first Enlightened and gave my mind a proper direction on this subject.  Great Indeed was the Caracter my brother gave Mr. Otis.  He considered him as the Luminary of that August Assembly—And that he there Exhibited that light which afterwards was reflected from various stars in different parts of the Continent.
I was some time in the old Congress but it was not till after you went to Europe—I observed the distinction of Southern and Eastern Police—The Southern is Often more generous, and measures are proposed by that Interest with Ardor but if not immediately successful are neglected and soon forgot—The Eastern is more firm and steady, and measures after being undertaken are pursued—I found the latter in the war most generally to my mind altho I was always with the former when I thought their measures best, but I like a firm & steady Police.  I am not fond of hasty & inconsiderate plans.  You see Sir, altho this is but an Adventure, and May be thought an intrusion for aught I know that I write freely & openly to you, for which perhaps you may consider me, more knowing than wise, but perhaps it is some consolation to such as inhabit, such a place, that the mind is more free here than in the open Fields; for what more can be done to me? Nothing but to take a life which would relieve me from what I feel, and transmit the soul where it would enjoy other rewards for the exertion of Patriotic Virtue. May you ever persevere in that good cause which has made your name venerable in America,
I am with very great respect / your most obed

Thomas Rodney


Title: To John Adams from Alexander Hamilton, 23 November 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adams, John

Sir
Treasury Department Nov. 23. 1791.

I have the honor to transmit to the Senate, in further obedience to their order, an estimate exhibiting the value, at the several places of shipment, of all foreign goods, wares and merchandize imported into the United States, during the year ending on the 30th. day of September 1790.  The principal objects of this document are to exhibit the portion of our consumption which is supplied by each foreign nation, and the aggregate value of the whole of our importations.
I have the honor to be with the greatest respect, Sir, / Your most obedt. / & most humble servt.

Alexander Hamilton


Title: To John Adams from Henry Knox, 23 November 1791
From: Knox, Henry
To: Adams, John

Sir,
War Department, 23th November 1791

I have the honor respectfully to submit to the Senate, a Report on the petitions of the widows, or the Children, or the Representatives of the Children of the following commissioned officers, who were killed or who died in the service of the United States during the late war—to wit; Bernard Elliot, Samuel Wise, Benjamin Huger, John Bush, Charles Motte, and Richard Shutnick—
With the greatest respect / I have the honor to be, / Sir / Your most obedt. / huml servt.

H KnoxSecy of War


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Jefferson, 26 November 1791
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Adams, John

Sir
Philadelphia Nov. 26. 1791

Supposing that the first Consular convention agreed on with France, and not ratified by Congress, may explain as well as account for some articles in that which was last agreed on & ratified. I take the liberty of inclosing, for the members of the Senate, copies of the two conventions as they were printed side by side, to shew where they differed.  These differences are not as great as were to be wished, but they were all which could be obtained.  I have the honour to be with the most profound respect and esteem, Sir, / Your most obedient / & most humble servt.

Th: Jefferson


Title: To John Adams from Alexander Hamilton, 3 December 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adams, John

Sir
Treasury Department Dec. 3. 1791

I have the honor to inform you that I have issued a warrant for the sum of five thousand two hundred and fifty six dollars in favor of the Secretary of the Senate (Samuel A. Otis Esq.) for the purpose of discharging the compensations due to the members of that body, grounded upon a pay roll certified by you to the 30th. ultimo inclusive.  I take the liberty of communicating to the Senate that this mode will be pursued till they shall signify their pleasure in regard to some other mode of proceeding.
I have the honor to be, / with the greatest respect, / Sir, / Your most obedt. & most humble servt. Alexander Hamilton


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Meredith, 3 December 1791
From: Meredith, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir
Treasury of the United States Decemr 3, 1791

Permit me thro you to lay before the Honble The Senate my Specie Accot. from the 1st July to the 30th Septemr as settled at the Treasury—
I have the honor to be with perfect / Respect / Sr. / Your Most humble Servt

Saml MeredithTreas of the United States


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Jefferson, 9 December 1791
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Adams, John

Sir
Philadelphia Dec. 9. 1791.

The inclosed information relative to ransom & peace with the Algerines, being newly come to hand, I take the liberty of communicating it to you, & through you to the Senate. it concurs in some facts and opinions with what we had before learnt. thro other channels, and differs in some others, so as, on the whole, to leave us still in considerable uncertainty as to interesting points.
I have the honor to be with sentiments of the most perfect respect, Sir, / Your most obedient / & most humble servant
Th: Jefferson


Title: To John Adams from Miles Merwin, 26 December 1791
From: Merwin, Miles
To: Adams, John

May it please Your Excellency
Cherry Alley No. 13. Decr. 26th. 1791

Excuse this address from a person whose station in life is far inferior to Your’s, and who to You is an utter Stranger.
The address is perhaps impertinent, but necessity is my only appology—I Sir was born in Connecticut, and recieved my education at Yale–College, but having nothing on which to rely, but my own exertions, when I left the Seminary, have had many difficulties to encounter, and have struggled both with poverty and sickness—Being a lover of science my attention has generally been fired on literary objects, and the study of Law has been my main pursuit—To the practice of which I was admited in Connecticut and have also lately been admited in this City—My destination now is to some of the interior Counties of this State, to seek a living from my profession; but can hardly brook the idea of going into the Country without Your most excellent work entitled “A defence of the Constitutions of Government of the United States,”—it contains such a fund of useful knowledge, that it ought to be the companion of every young man in America who is a well wisher to our prosperity—To purchase it I am unable,—as ten Dollars is all the cash I possess or have it in my power to command—Having no friend in this City of whom I can borrow it Your defence is the reason of my thus troubling You, and if through Your means I can obtain it I shall be laid under the highest obligations of duty and gratitude—
I am / May it please / Your Excellency / Your Excellency’s / Obedt & humbl / Servt
Miles Merwin


Title: To John Adams from Miles Merwin, 26 December 1791
From: Merwin, Miles
To: Adams, John

May it please Your Excellency
Cherry Alley No. 13 Decr. 26th 1791

It is difficult for me to express  real gratitude for Your Excellency’s favour this morning, which is a treasure of inestimable value to me. My heart feels much more than my pen can describe—
May Your Excellency long live to display those public and private virtues which have ever been the most distinguishing traits in Your character, and when all the honours which a grateful people can bestow for distinguished merit and usefulness, have been heaped on your Head, may You be received to regions of unceasing Joy and felicity, is the ardent wish of /  Your Excellency’s /  most obedt /  & obiged humbl / Servt.

Miles Merwin


Title: From John Macpherson to John Adams, 27 December 1791
From: Macpherson, John
To: Adams, John,United States Senate

					Decembr 27 1791

				May it please the honourable Gentlemen of the Senate to peruse the following thoughts dictated by humanity & love of my Country. A few minutes since I told General Knox I wished to be sent against the Indians as soon as possible, & that I knew some of the Senate allso wished it. General Knox replyed then lett them send you I am your friend.Therefore Gentlemen, I hope you will be pleased to Consider my reasons for wishing to go against them in the Winter. In the Spring I make no dout but that many Tribes will join to pursue the advantage they Latly gained, & if so no doubt there will be great Carnage. Butt in the Winter they will be unprepared of Course easily subdued, and if treated with merciful humanity they may become our firm friends & allies.To go against them, with design to take their Land, or Property from them, I would not, to be made the sovereign Ruler of the whole Globe. To go against them to convince them of our superiority, only to make them our friends would give me pleasureI am Honourable Gentlemen / Your Obedient humble Servant

					John Macpherson


Title: To John Adams from Jan Willink, 29 December 1791
From: Willink, Jan,Willink, Wilhem
To: Adams, John

Sir
Amsterdam 29 dec 1791

since our last of 5 July, we are without any of your esteemed favors, we take now the Liberty to recall ourselves to your friendly remembrance, and to make you the Compliments of the season, wishing you pray happy year.
You’ll be acquainted that Mr. Short effectuated thro’ our hands with Messrs V St. a Loan of 5 per C: of Six Mills. Pnds/br & that he afterwards caused one to be made of  3 Mn. at 4 1/2 per C: at Antwerp, this circumstance affected & displeased our money Lenders greatly, whos furnished Loans when elsewere they could not be obtained, & expected that the US should not borrow but in Holland because the Credit can be better supported than if a state borrows everywhere, when the extents of Loans cannot be ascertained so well, Mr. Short Authorised us in Nov. to open at Said Rate a Loan, but tho’ our money Lenders were much displeased at the measure of Antwerp & could in justice pretend an equal intrest, we got the flattering hope of reducing the intrest of 4 per C: & in consequence we did not propose the Loan but informed Mr. Short of our Opinion, whch. by our Local knowledge we grounded, on the rise of the English Stocks & the high Exche. by whch. we calculated many people would sell out, whch. should produce a considerable flux of money, whch. with some rembursmt of forcing Loans should reduce the intrest by raising the 5 per C: obligy. above par, as people should not be disposed to place money in france at the actual circumstances, but rather withdraw from it, the event has verified our opinions, & tho’ with great trouble to effectuate such a great reduction and to reconcile the indisposed spirits abt the Antw: Loan, we have the pleasure with V St. to have obtained a 3 Mn. Loan at 4 per Ct whch. we flatter ourselves will be a pleasing intelligence to your govermnt & prove our assiduity and Zeal for the intrest and confidence to our care.
We hope however that no farther Loans will be made on other places, whch. in times of speed might hinder a success here, the more as our place can furnish any Sums wanted, when properly managed, we hint this to you, that you’ll consider of it, as realy convenient to the credit & intrest of the US. but we are only free with you as a friend, and speak not abt the matter to you in your Quality, neither do we intend to blame Mr. Short, as he is Zealous for the intrest of his Principals, and that we are sure his direction is only motivated by a desire to serve the State to his best Judgment, but as we are more proper to judge the local situation & the impressions it makes on the money Lenders, we would not forbear to Submit it to your judicious reflection as our Friend.  In this aspect you’ll indulge our Liberty.
We beg Leave to offer our best Respects to your Lady and have the honor to be with great esteem.Sir Your most Obedt. servants
Wilhem & Jan Willink


Title: From John Adams to John Jay, 4 January 1792
From: Adams, John
To: Jay, John

Dear Sir
Philadelphia January the Fourth 1792

As the Week is approaching when you are to be expected at Philadelphia, I take this opportunity to present to you and your Lady the Compliments of the Season, and request the honour and pleasure of your Company at our House during your Visit to this City.  We live in Arch Street at the Corner of fourth Street where your old bed is ready for you in as good a Chamber and much more conveniently Situated for your Attendance on your Court and intercourse with your Friends.  Mrs Jay We hope will bear you company and in this request Mrs Adams joins with me.  The Winter is very mild: Politicks dull.  Speculation brisk.  As We have little Interest in these Things We shall have a freer scope for Friendship.
I am, my dear sir with Sincere / Esteem, yours

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Alexander Hamilton, 6 January 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adams, John

Sir
Treasury Department January 6. 1792

In obedience to the order of the Senate I have the honor to transmit you sundry papers relative to the exportation of fish.
With perfect respect I have the honor to be, Sir / Your most obedt. / and most humble servt.

Alexander Hamilton


Title: To John Adams from John Jay, 10 January 1792
From: Jay, John
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
New York 10 Jany 1792—

I cannot easily tell you how much I am pleased & obliged by your friendly Letter of the 4th. Instant:—were I to pursue my Inclinations, I should without Hesitation accept your kind Invitation—but our Inclinations even in things innocent must not always be gratified.  my Visits to Philadelphia have ceased to be occasional, or I should certainly avail myself of those opportunities which your Hospitality would afford for that free and social Intercourse which I shall always be happy to enjoy and indulge. the courts call me regularly and periodically to Philada. and they will continue to call me as long as I remain in Office, or the present Order of Things continues unchanged.  This circumstance produces Considerations which press me, on those occasions to be in Lodgings—and the more so, as your living in Town obviates Impediments to our seeing each other frequently, and passing as many pleasant Hours together, as our official affairs may permit.—mrs. Jays situation will not admit of her being from Home next Term. We expect an Increase of our family about that Time.  a severe cold and cough have confined her to her chamber for ten Days past—she is much indisposed, and as yet I do not perceive that her complaints abate.  The present State of her Health added to the situation she will soon be in strongly oppose my leaving her.  she requests the favor of you to present her best Compts: & acknowledgements to Mrs. Adams—be pleased to add mine.
Altho you keep your Doors shut, yet a certain motion has found its way out.  I am not pleased with it.  If that Encroachmt. should take place, no Man will in my Opinion be able to administer the Governmt. with Reputation to himself or advantage to the Public.  this appears to me to be the best Time to try the construction in Question.  I wish it may be pursued to a Decision; and not be reserved to some future occasion, when a contingent Combination of Circumstances may promise success to such an improper Measure—
With sincere Esteem & Regard I am / Dear Sir / Your most obt. & hble Sevrt

John Jay


Title: From John Adams to Anonymous, 19 January 1792
From: Adams, John
To: Anonymous

Dear Sir
Philadelphia Jan. 19. 1792

At a time when all the Men of Letters in the World are or ought to be employed in researches after the Principles of Society, although my friends and my Ennemies, (for I must at length acknowledge that I have such) concur in forbidding me to publish any of my Speculations, I see no reason why you and I may not exchange a few Letters, upon these important Subjects.
A Society can no more Subsist without Gentlemen than an Army without Officers, So Says Harrington: So Says History: So Says Experience: So Says reason.  Out of a Body of Gentlemen, some how or other formed, are to be drawn Officers to command your Armies for national defence; Magistrates to execute the Laws and distribute Justice; Legislators to enact Laws; Physicians to preserve or restore health; Clergymen to preach the moral Science &c.
In every free Government, there has hitherto been and probably there always must be, a Senate, composed of a Collection of the best Men, by whom I mean the most knowing experienced upright courageous and independent Men. The great Question is how these shall be known formed or selected.  Election has been tried no doubt. Birth has been tried too: but Mankind seem to be now disgusted with that project, without knowing what to substitute in its Place, There is not a more curious question, now debated in the World, than this “What is to become of the Nobility in Europe?
This question which has long puzzled me, has been brought fresh to my mind by reading Sir James Steuarts Principles of Political Œconomy. Vol. 1. page 63. Book 1. chap. 11 he Says “If there be found in any Country a very numerous Nobility, who look upon Trade and the inferiour Arts as unbecoming their birth; a good Statesman must reflect upon the Spirit of former times and compare it with that of the present. He will then perceive that these Sentiments have been transmitted from Father to Son, and that Six generations are not elapsed Since, over all Europe they were universally adopted: that although the Revolution We talked of in the 10th Chapter has in effect rendered them less adapted to the Spirit of the present times, they are however productive of excellent Consequences; They Serve as a Bulwark to Virtue, against the Allurements of Riches; and it is dangerous to force a Set of Men who form a considerable body in a State, from necessity to trample under foot, what they have been persuaded from their Infancy to be the test of a noble and generous Mind.
“About 200 years ago, the Nobility of Several Nations, I mean by this term, all People Well born, whether adorned with particular marks of Royal favour or not, used to live upon the produce of their Lands. In those days there was little Luxury little circulation; the Lands fed numbers of Useless mouths, in the modern acceptation of Useless, consequently produced a very moderate income in money to the Proprietors, who were, notwithstanding, the most considerable persons in the State.  This Class of Inhabitants remaining inactive in the Country, during the revolution abovementioned, have in consequence of the introduction of Industry, Trade and Luxury, insensibly had the Ballance of Wealth, and consequently of consideration turned against them.  Of this there is no doubt.  This Class however has retained the military Spirit, the lofty Sentiments; and notwithstanding their depression in point of fortune, are found calculated to shine the brightest, when Set in a proper elevation.  In times of peace, when trade flourishes, the Lustre of those who wallow in public money the Weight and consideration of the wealthy merchant, and even the ease and affluence of the industrious tradesman, eclipse the poor nobility: they become an Object of contempt to bad Citizens, an object of compassion to the good; and political Writers imagine they render them an important Service, when they propose to receive them into the lower Classes of the People.  But when Danger threatens from abroad, and when armies are brought into the field, compare the Behaviour of those conducted by a Warlike nobility with those conducted by the sons of Labour and Industry; those who have glory, with those who have gain for their point of view.  Let the State only Suffer this nobility to languish without a proper Encouragement, there is no fear but they will soon disappear; their Lands will become possessed by People of a Way of thinking more a la mode, and the army will quickly adopt new sentiments more analogous to the Spirit of a moneyed Interest.
I find nothing more affecting to a good mind, than to see the distress of a poor nobility in both Sexes.  Some have proposed Trade for this Class.  Why do you not trade? I answer for the Nobility; because in order to trade I must have money.  This Objection is unanswerable.  Why then do you not apply to other branches of Industry? If it is the State who is Supposed to ask the question, I ask, in my turn, what Advantage She can reap from their Industry? What profit from their becoming Shopkeepers, Weavers or Taylors? Are not, or ought not all these Classes to be provided with hands from their own Multiplication? What Advantage can she reap by the Children of one Class taking the Bread out of the mouths of another?
If the Sentiments in which the nobility have been educated, prove detrimental to the State, throw a discouragement upon them, If Birth is to be no mark of distinction, let it not be distinguished by any particular mark of distinction priviledge, which in appearance Sets that Class above the level of those with whom the State intends they should be incorporated. You do not make your Valet de Chambre get behind your Coach, though upon an occasion it might be convenient and though perhaps he had been your footman the day before; you would even turn him out of Doors, did he not change his Company with his rank.
If you cannot afford to have a nobility, let it die away: grant as in England, the Title of noble to one of a Family, and let all the rest be commoners; that is to say, distinguished by no personal priviledge, whatsoever, from the lowest Classes of the People. But if you want them to Serve you as Soldiers, and that they Should preserve those Sentiments you approve of in a Soldier, take Care, at least of their Children.  If these appear to you poor and ragged, while they are wandering up and down their Fathers Lands, chasing a wretched hare or partridge, compare them when in the Troops, with those of your wealthy neighbours, if any Such you have.”
I have transcribed this long passage from this dry old Fellow least you might not have his Work at hand: but to make it more intelligible, I must transcribe the Passage referred to in the 10th Chapter.


Title: From John Adams to Pseudonym: "The Recluse Man", 19 January 1792
From: Adams, John
To: Pseudonym: "The Recluse Man"

(Copied)Sir
19th Jan 1792,

I received by the last post a sheet subscribed, “A Recluse Man” enclosed with another in Print, and have read both with feelings and reflections, some of which I should not choose to commit to paper.  The printed one, I had read with much pleasure in its season, and felt myself obliged to the writer, altho’ I had no knowledge or suspicion of the Author. I have sometimes thought of collecting together and printing in Volumes all that has been written at me, since my return from Europe to my native Country. If I had more regard for my own glory in the eyes of posterity, than for that of my fellow Citizens, I should esteem such a monument far preferable to Mr. Cherachi’s marble.  Such a torrent could flow only from the foul source of secret enmity to the Constitution of the United States, united with another stream of ill will to the present Constitution of Pennsylvania. Both, mingled with foreign politicks and domestic envy, jealousy and disappointment. And all these parties and individuals have done me the choice honor to give to the world and to posterity in the bitterness and agony of their hearts, the fullest proofs that they consider me as the first obstacle in their way. It gives me pain however to perceive that all their endeavors were ever able to impose for a moment on a man of Letters, of so much candor, sagacity and information as the Recluse Man.  The writers in opposition to me, have founded their speculations, on my Defence of the Constitutions. These Volumes will answer for themselves to any one who will enquire of them, and will prove that no other Books that ever were written except the Bible, were ever so much belied.  If you will do me the favor to accept a sett of them, and the greater favor to read them, I will order them to be presented to you.  The history of my passion for Titles is briefly this. In 1788 and 1789, there was much enquiry in conversation in Boston and its neighborhood, concerning the titles which were to be given to the Representatives Senators and president in the new Government, Many were for Majesty to the latter, others for Highness, some for Excellency; and others for no title at all.  The title of Most Honorable was constantly given to the Senators in one of the Boston papers, at least Rusells Centinele, and it seemed to be a general opinion that some title or other must be given to the President and Senators. When I took my seat in Senate at NYork, a Committee of both houses reported a plan of receiving the President when he should arrive, one part of which was, that the Vice President, should receive him at the door of the Senate Chamber, and conduct him to the Chair, and afterwards address him to inform him, that both Houses were ready to attend him while he took the Oath.  This Report was accepted by the Senate after having been accepted by the House. Upon this I arose in my place and asked the advice of the Senate in what form I should address him. Whether I should say Mr Washington Mr. President, Sir, May it please your Excellency, or what else? I observed that it had been common, while he commanded the Army to call him his Excellency but I was free to own it would appear to me better to give him no title but Sir or Mr President, than to put him on a level with a Governor of Bermuda, or one of his own Embassadors, or a Governor of any one of our States.  After I had made my observations, a Senator arose, and said it was an important point, and this was the precise moment to settle it; he there fore moved for a Committee of both houses to consider and Report upon it. This is the substance of the charge against me for a passion for Titles. For my own part I freely own that I think decent and moderate Titles as distinctions of offices are not only harmless but useful in Society and that in this Country where I know them to be prized by the people as well as their Magistrates, as highly as by any people or any Magistrates in the World, I should think some distinction between the Magistrates of the National Government, and those of the State Governments proper.  There is not however in the United States, personally a Citizen more indifferent upon the subject, or more willing to conform to the public will or wish concerning it. If the proofs that have been given me in the Newspapers of a deep malice against a Man, who has spent a life of anxiety hazard and labor in the Service of his Country, have given me pain it has been in some measure compensated by bringing me to the knowledge of the Recluse Man, whose goodness of heart, and ellegance of composition, I shall not soon or easily forget.


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Meredith, 26 January 1792
From: Meredith, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir
Treasury of the United States Janry 26th. 1792—

Permit me thro you to lay before the Honble. the Senate my Intrest Accot. from the 30t Septemr to the 31t Decembr. as setled at the Treasury, the Specie accot when passed the Offices shall be immediately transmitted—
I have the honor to be / with perfect Respect / Sir / Your Most humble Sert

Saml. Meredith Treas of the United States


Title: To John Adams from George Hammond, 28 January 1792
From: Hammond, George
To: Adams, John

Saturday 28 Jany 1792.

Mr Hammond has the honor of sending to the Vice–President the last Monthly Review, and Gentleman’s Magazine, and will be much obliged to him, if he will have the goodness to return, by the bearer, the last English Newspapers, if he has perused them


Title: To John Adams from Nathaniel Hazard, 29 January 1792
From: Hazard, Nathaniel
To: Adams, John

Sir
Newyork 29th. Jany 1792—

I understood from my Friend, and late Fellow Traveller, that “A Recluse Man” had been heard of, but never seen, by the principal Object of it.  This Mistake alone, prompted the Author to inclose it, at first, in a blank Cover.  The Idea of commenting on it, arose after it had been sealed.  It was a disinterested, volunteer Effort; written at a Moment, when the Author had not the most distant Idea of ever being known, to those concerned; much less, of the distinguished Honor paid him, of noticing it, and accompanying it, with so very acceptable and valuable a Present, as the large Edition of the Defence of the American Constitutions.  The “Recluse Man” confesses, he was prompted to boast, that it was entirely a voluntary Affair, previous to, and uninfluenced by, personal Acquaintance, and consequent high Respect.  He had however a purer Motive.  He supposed, an Instance of disinterested Zeal & Good will, might tend to counterbalance all the possible sting, of at least one of the many calumniating Performances, which I hope for the Honor of my Country, do not represent the Essence and Acme of Southern Wit; the Quarter from which they apparently come.
I had early purchased, the small American Edition of the “Defence” & began to read it with Attention in the Summer past.  I then learned, that a heavy Attack, would be commenced in Autumn, I believe, an Anticipation retarded it. “Venienti’ occurrite Morbo” is perhaps, as good a political, as medical Rule.
I asked of Doctor Johnson, (of our College) the History of the Business of Titles, in the Senate; he explained it, as it is done is the Letter, I am honored with.
A Prone-ness to Change, appears to be an inherent Quality of Human Nature.  The first officer in America, has escaped its Effects longer perhaps, than usually happens in a Republic; longer than his most sanguine & personally devoted Friends could possiblyhave rationally counted upon.  But the Tide is now turning from Adulation, to its Opposite. The Indian War; expensive Diplomatique Establishments; improper Appointments; a Hobby-horsical federal City; a vain & expensive Statue; are familiar Topics of Censure.
I consider every honest, independent Character, or Officer of Note in a Republic, almost as a temporary Martyr.  A good Conscience, and a Certainty of Justice in the public Opinion, when retired from public Station & Envy, are the only sustaining Reflections; & indeed they are powerful Consolation to those who have the Magnanimity to merit them.
The very flattering Notice taken, of my slender Efforts, induces me, perhaps imprudently; to mention my having, (with the Knowledge only of a very few confidential literary Friends) aimed at Times, at some useful Purpose, by occasional Publications.  In the American Museum of September 1790, an “Hints & conjectural Observations on an American Excise”. In that of July 1791 – Page 25 Remarks “On Toll Bridges & Turnpike Roads”. Of August following Page 67 “Consolatory letter to an afflicted Friend”.
I cannot conclude, Sir, without reiterating, the very strong and grateful Impressions which I feel, on the distinguished Mark of Attention bestowed upon me, by a Character so eminent, in both Hemispheres, for Literature, Politics, and Patriotism; and that I am, with my very high & unfeigned Respect /  Sir /  Your most obedient and very humble servant

Nathl. Hazard
P.S. Jany. 31st. The Receit of the three Volumes this Day, induces me to add, to a Letter already too lengthy. The second & third, are very important Supplements to the first; the whole contain such an Epitome of ancient and modern History & Polity, as is invaluable to a Man unavoidably engaged in busy commercial Life; who, however desirious, can enjoy very little literary Leisure.  I will with great Pleasure, make Time enough to read them; and compleat, what I once had began, that of making Extracts, which, without Comments, would confute Traducers


Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 4 February 1792
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

My dear Sir.
Boston February 4th: 1792.

A variety of circumstances have occurred since you left this part of the Country, which have combined to change in some measure the state of our parties in this State; you have probably heard of them from other Quarters, and ought to have heard of them before this from me. I will endeavour however to retrieve as far as possibly my former deficiency, and to give you an account of the present situation of affairs here, so far as I can collect my information from public report.
In the month of October a town meeting was held in this town, wherein it was voted to petition our general Court for a repeal of the law prohibiting theatrical exhibitions. The vote was carried by a large majority, but the party opposed to the measure was numerous, and a counter-petition signed by more than 300 persons was presented to the legislature at the same time with the petition for the repeal. Upon this subject, the lieutenant Governor, and Dr: Jarvis were upon the opposite sides of the Question, and debated the point so warmly together that a coolness, it is said has ensued between them, since that time.—This however is a matter of small moment, in comparison with another event, which has produced a more extraordinary variance.
When the vacancy upon the bench of our Supreme Judicial Court, occasioned by the death of Judge Sargeant, was to be filled up, the Governor was sollicited by the friends of Mr: Dawes (by his father particularly, and perhaps by himself) to fix upon him for the office; and whether from motives of personal friendship, or from pecuniary obligations, or from an idea of the family influence of the man, and a wish to secure it in his own favour, or whatever his reasons were, he did, without consulting an individual member of the council, or any of the Judges of the Supreme Court, or even his confidential favourite and adviser Sullivan, nominate Mr: Dawes. The nomination met with universal disapprobation. The bench, the Bar, and the people at large in every part of the State, were dissatisfied. The opinion that Dawes was not a proper man for the office, was universal, and the importance of the office itself greatly increased the discontent which the nomination occasioned.—That discontent, however would have evaporated in a momentary censure of the levity, and caprice of the Governor, as it has upon many former occasions, had not the arrangement interfered, with the views of private interest, and with the designs of faction.—From the first moment of the nomination, it has met with an avowed, and determined opposition from Sullivan and from Judge Dana, who appear even to have joined in a sort of combination to obstruct the progress of the appointment.—Sullivan has clamoured in all his private conversations, has scribbled anonymously in the newspapers, has personally urged Mr: Dawes to decline the appointment and wrote a long Letter to the Governor, perswading him to withdraw the nomination: and he has so decidedly and perseveringly pursued this line of conduct, that an actual rupture has taken place between him and the Governor: nay I have some reason to conjecture, that he has serious thoughts of advancing as a candidate for the chair himself in opposition to the present possessor.—The pretext of his violent opposition to Dawes is an ardent zeal for the dignity of the State—And as an Enemy to the national Government his principle is certainly well founded.—The Supreme Court of the State, has lost much of the veneration of the people by a former appointment—It is indeed surprizing how that diminution of confidence has in so short a period of time since the last change, pervaded every part of the Commonwealth; and the mortification of the party, is greatly aggravated, by the respectability of the national Courts, and the growing attachment of the people to them.—In addition to this it is said that Sullivan expected that the Salaries of our Judges would before the vacancy should be filled up be raised to £500, in which case, he would have stood ready to take the place himself, and in the opinion of many people his disappointment in this particular has exceedingly sharpened his zeal for the dignity of the State.—
Of Judge Dana I feel myself always obliged in duty, and from personal attachment, to speak with respect and reverence: but in writing to you upon the state of our politics, I must not conceal, the opinions which are held with respect to the motives of his conduct. He has been equally open and decided against Mr Dawes, with Sullivan, and equally active in endeavouring to prevent the appointment. His patriotism and public spirit are allowed, and admitted, as being much more forcible principles to actuate him than Sullivan, but the peculiar earnestness and even virulence, with which he pursues Dawes at present, has given occasion to a suggestion, that the prospect of failing to obtain an augmentation of his salary, contributed not a little to give additional vigour to his patriotic ardour.—His eyes as well as those of Sullivan are supposed to be fixed upon the chair of State, and possibly he may anticipate an increase of his own popularity, by maintaining a contest against an unpopular measure. The views of the two men are so widely different, and indeed so irreconcileable together, that they cannot long act in concert, but as the object of keeping Dawes from the bench, is a favourite point with both, they have apparently formed a coalition for this particular purpose: they have both endeavoured to perswade Dawes to decline; both used all their influence with the members of the council, that the nomination might be disapprobated; but in vain. To decline an appointment, which he had sollicited, and obtained notwithstanding the opposition of Sullivan’s influence with the Governor, would in Dawes’s opinion betray a want of Spirit on his part, and after getting so good hold of the public loaf, he has no disposition to relinquish it. The council though most of them were dissatisfied, yet would not by passing a negative upon the Governors choice, cast a stigma upon the character of a man, whom they considered as only unequal to the office, and as to the Governor himself, in addition to all the motives which originally operated to determine his election, he is now induced from obstinacy, and resentment to support the man whom he brought forward. Dawes is therefore appointed, and has accepted the appointment. Mr Dana however does not yet give the point—At the same time when Mr: Dawes was nominated, Dana was appointed to the vacant seat of Chief Justice; but he has not yet accepted, and it is said he intends actually to decline accepting it; and that, for the purpose of bringing in Question, the legality of Dawes’s appointment. Our Law says the Supreme Court shall be held by one Chief-Justice, and four other Justices, and the inference is that there were four other Justices at the time when Mr: Dawes was nominated, the Governor had no right to propose a fifth untill the Chief Justice had declined his acceptance, and taken the Oath of Office.—Thus the affair now rests, and the result of all the plots and counterplots will probably appear in the course of three or four weeks, when the next Session of the Supreme Court is to be held in this Town.
I wrote to my brother by the last post an account of another transaction, which has occasioned much altercation in this Town, and has also contributed to widen the difference in the party. Sullivan and Jarvis strenuously supported the System that was proposed; and it was opposed violently by Ben: Austin, and by the influence of the lieutenant Governor, though he did not publicly appear against it. The parties were very severe upon each other in the public town-meetings: and are said to be still at variance; but whether from a sense of necessity for the mutual support of their own importance, and of their hostile Spirit to the national Government, they will again come together, or whether they will continue to separate untill a complete disunion and opposition of pursuit shall ensue, must be left to the determination of Time.
This Story has been so long in the telling that I have no room to give you any further accounts of our politics. Our General Court has been about three weeks in Session, and will probably sit three or four weeks longer: their time has hitherto been employed in the consideration of private petitions and other applications not of a public nature.—They appear to be peaceably disposed, and indeed the happiness and prosperity of the people throughout the State, seems to continue and to encrease.
With my respects to my dear mother, and love to the rest of the family, I remain, my dear Sir, your faithful and affectionate Son.
J. Q. Adams.
P.S. My brother Tom in a Letter which I received by the last post, says, he has two Setts of Espinasse, and promises to send me one if I have occasion for it.—I would only remind him that the sooner he sends it, the more agreeable it will be to me—I shall write to him again soon.


Title: To John Adams from Alexander Mitchell, 8 February 1792
From: Mitchell, Alexander
To: Adams, John

Honoúrable sir!
Hagûe Feby: 8th: 1792

May I be So bold as to join my humble Sollicitations to those of My Revd: Father, Nothing coúld have determin’d me to do it, but the almost Certain information of the present Critical Sitúation of Mr. Dúmás Affairs.
If the Honourable Congress shoúld think Proper to appoint another in his place, may I be So free to beg yoúr Interest & Favoúr to Recommend me as his súccessor, A fixed Resident here might be more agreable and less Expensive; and my knowledge of the French, Dutch & English Languages Woúld Greatly Facilitate the Several Fúnctions of it.  As I Shoúld accoúnt, a Favourable appointment to Súch a Post, as a very Distingúishing honoúr, Especially from a Free and Independant State, So the Several Duties of it Shoúld be my Stúdy and Pleasure
These are the Real Sentiments of him, who begs to be honour’d with a favoúrable answer to his Request, & Who has the honoúr to Sign him Self Yoúr Most Húmble & Obedient servant
Alexr: Mitchell Advt:Prinse Gragt


Title: To John Adams from William Mitchell, 8 February 1792
From: Mitchell, William
To: Adams, John

Honourable Sir!
Leyden Feby. 8th. 1792

As I had the Honour of knowing you personally during your short Residence here, & had seen many Proofs of your generous & disinterested Conduct, I use the Freedom to make a direct application to yourself in the important Character & Relation in which you stand to the united & independent States of N: America.
It is more than probable, Honle: sir, that Mr; Dumas the present Agent or Chargé d’affaires from the Honle: Congress at the Hague, by some disadvantageous circumstances in his domestic affairs, will be found, according to general Report, incapable of acting any longer in that Character by their High Mights: and consequently that that Post may become vacant. I hope therefore you will not take it amiss that I sollicit your interest in favour of my Son, who after taking his degree in Law in this University, has now been settled for some years in the Hague.  As he has married a Lady of fashion and fortune, his present genteel & independent Situation would enable him to do Honour to whatever Character might be conferr’d on him.  It would ill suit me, sir, to say much in favour of my own Child.  As he is universally known and respected by People of the first distinction the, and has the Honour to be particularly in the good Graces of his S: Hs: the Prince of Orange, both his Ambition & Capacity would excite & enable him to discharge the duties of such an Employment with propriety & Reputation. He is now in his 28th year, in the prime & Vigour of Life, & would esteem the honour of such a Character more highly than the Profits or Emoluments resulting from it.  His moral principles & Conduct, I can assure you, are irreproachable.  As, I dare way, you still remember the very worthy & learned Dr: Maclean, with whom he is connected as Member of his Church Council there, you may, if anyways consistant with your other Views, freely apply to him or any one else of your Acquaintance, for farther Information.  A letter of Sollicitation from my Son will accompany this, both which, your known Candour, I hope, will excuse & favourably receive.  After assurances of the profoundest Respect, I have the Honour, very Honle: sir, to sign myself / Your most obedient humble Servant

Wm: Mitchell


Title: To John Adams from Rodolph Valltravers, 15 February 1792
From: Valltravers, Rodolph
To: Adams, John

					Monsieur!
					De Rotterdam, ce 15e. Févrr. 1792

				En attendant le Sort de la Lettre, que j’ai pris la Liberté d’addresser á Vôtre Excellence, le 8e. Decembre 1791. par le Cape. Rose, de la Marylande; parti d’ici pour Georgetown; renfermant une Copie de ma derniére Lettre á S. E. le Genl. Washington, Président du Congrés des Etats unis de l’Amérique: permettés, que j’aye l’Honneur de Vous faire Part du triste Etat actuel, de vôtre jadis Sécrétaire, le bon vieux Papa DuMas, Agent de Vos Etats, quoique sans Caractére avoué et réconnû de LL. HH. PP. Lui ayant fait adresser quelques Paquets, sur des Sujets literaires, par vôtre ingénieux et laborieux Concitoyen, le Sr. Jean Churchman, je fus le saluer á la Haÿe avant hier; ou je le trouvais dans l’Etat le plus affligé, soufrant Martyre, du Corps et de l’Esprit; réduit, par les hypochondres, á un Etat de squelette, negligé et chagriné par sa Famille, et entouré de Gens de peu de Confiance, desquels il ne sait, coment se dépétrir, pour se rétirer quelquepart en Pension, dans une Famille plus humaine, & moins avide á le dépouiller. A juger par son grand Abbattement du Corps et de l’Ame, et par son Impatience de se rétirer de ce bas Monde: je croirois sa Fin trés prochaine. V.E. saura mieux, que moi, s’il posséde quelques Actes et Documens publics, qu’il conviendroit de mettre en Sureté? Et, ayant rénoncé á tout Travail, qu’il n’est plus en Etat de continuer; Si les Interets des Etats conféderés, tant politiques, que mercantils, n’exigent pas, ad interim, la Vigilance et l’Activité d’un Home de Confiance sur les Lieux, pour le soulager, et vaquer á ses Fonctions, en attendant les Dispositions nécessaires, du Pouvoir exécutif des Etats conféderés? pour remplir, á leur Satisfaction, une Station trés importante dans les Conjonctures présentes.En cette Occasion, comme en toute autre, je Vous prie, Monsieur, de réiterer á S.E. Monsr. le Président les humbles Offres de mon Zéle ardent et sincére, pour la Prosperité de Votre illustre République, par tous les Services au faible Pouvoir de / Monsieur! / Vôtre trés dévoué Servr.

					Rodh. Vall-travers.


Title: From John Adams to Henry Marchant, 3 March 1792
From: Adams, John
To: Marchant, Henry

Dear Sir,
Philadelphia March 3d: 1792.

I have received and read with much pleasure your kind letter of the 20th: Ult; Your sympathy with me under the Case effusions of mallice and falshood ought to be converted into shame for your Country, which wanted virtue, sense and spirit to discountenance what will remain a lasting disgrace to America to the Press and to letters. A Brown, a Markoe, & a Finley, suffered to insult for a whole Summer! Whom?
Emulation is inseparable from the human mind. Elective Monarchies, however limited are the rankest soil in which emulation can be planted, and the Government of the United States as well as that of every individual State is to all intents and purposes an Elective tho’ limited Monarchy; however ignorant people may amuse one another with eternal repetitions of the words Republic and Commonwealth, which they understand not.—I own I did not expect that truth, honor and virtue would so soon have been trampled under foot in America, as much aware as I was of the turpitude usually produced by ambitious rivalries. You mention one very grave and serious charge against me which I never heard of before; to be sure it deserves a sober refutation. You say—Mr. Ad——s does not walk the Streets enough.—This I deny—I can prove by many witnesses that I walk a league in the Streets of Philadelpha. every day, which is more than any other member of Congress ever did. So that in this respect I am undoubtedly the man of the most merit, any where to be found.
The funding system is the hair shirt which our sinful country must wear as a propitiation for her past dishonesty. The only way to get rid of speculation is to hasten to rise of our stocks to the standard beyond which they cannot ascend. Clamor and murmur will do no good. The bad morals of the people brought them into this situation, together with their ignorance; and their bad morals and their ignorance will keep them in it, if they should obstruct or divert the public councils, from pursuing the scientific principles of social order and political œconomy. Do our people imagine that those who buy land will not buy as cheap as they can, and sell as dear as they can? Mercantile bargains and sales are not made pro bono publico. Do we expect that Dutch Capitalists or English Merchants or American speculators in Lands, or funds, will spend their time and employ their Capitals as Washington and La Fayette, serve their Countries for nothing. It is time my friend that honest men should commune with one another, or unanimously agree to retire to obscurity together.
I am sincerely / Your affectionate friend

John Adams.


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Allyne Otis, 5 March 1792
From: Otis, Samuel Allyne
To: Adams, John

Sir
Philada. March 5th 1792

I am hurt by your unexpected & I think unmerited resentment this morning, for I had not the most distant intention to give offence
So many reflections have passed on the expenses of my office, I have redoubled my exertions to keep them as moderate as the nature of business will permit.  I did accordingly at the close of the last Session agree with Mr. Heysham to bring up the business of the Session, he calling the service 94 1/2 days, and on condition that I would state to you that number of days, necessarily employed in the recess, for your Excellencys certificate as the Lears provides.  This was done early in this Session when he received his money and signed a rect. in full.  And by this arrangement he was paid for Clerkship from Jany 1791 to Jany 1792 Dols 679.50, which is 179.50 more than other Clerks receive—Men of equal abilities and attendance.  And with this he appeared perfectly easy until Mathers’s last grant.  As to business in the recess, if Mr Heysham would attend as I could get plenty of capable men to attend, and as many hours as I attend myself, the business of the recess would take but a few if any days attendance of a Clerk—
In fact Mr Heysham has received all he agreed for, all I drew from the Treasury for him, and in any opinion all that justice entitles him to.  I shall however receive neither good or hurt from a resettlement of his account, and shall cheerfully acquiesce in your doings, having nothing to regret but the unexpected loss of a friend, for what I supposed my duty.
I have the honor to be with esteem & / respect / Your Excellencies / Most Humble & / Obedt Sert
Sam. A. Otis


Title: From John Adams to Nathaniel Hazard, 10 March 1792
From: Adams, John
To: Hazard, Nathaniel

Sir
Philadelphia March 10th. 1792

Your obliging favor of the 29th. of January would not have remained so long unanswered had not sickness in my family of a long continuance and distressing nature interrupted my inclination to acknowledge my obligations to you.  The “Anticipation” which you observe to have retarded an “heavy attack”, I do not fully understand.  Such is the constitution of the human mind, that nations and other great bodies of men, can never be expected to have even virtues but in extremes. The habit of praise as well as of blame runs naturally to extravagance. I cannot vindicate every measure which you say is a topick of censure; and if neither prevention nor remedy are in my power, it would do no good for me to concur in the blame. I have read the hints &c on an American excise; the Remarks on Toll bridges and turnpike Roads, and the consolatory Letter to an afflicted friend; and I think they are proofs of a talent at composition which ought not to be neglected, of a Judgement which will be respected, and of a virtuous disposition which cannot but be loved and esteemed. If the Volumes you Received should afford you any amusement, or occasion any new reflections, I shall be happy. They were all written and printed, except the last letter of the last volume, before the Constitution of the United States reached my hand. They lay open all the sources of information on the subject, and if my own opinion expressed in them is not well founded, the reader will know where to look for facts, arguments and objections against it. I have seen no rational attempt to confute my doctrines unless it be in a writer under the signature of Philodemos, who finally rests his argument on this position, “that the people of America are, and will continue to be, different in knowledge and virtue from all other people who are or have been.” On this position I am willing to rest it, and leave to time and experience the decision. If ambition and avarice are not as strong in this Country, as in others, my observations have been inaccurate. If intrigues and manuvres in Elections have not been practised, and are not now practising, I have been misinformed; and if the people are not every day deceived by artifice and falsehood, I have no understanding. The share that has been assigned to me in publick affairs the circumstances of my fortune and family, as well as my age, make me very willing to resign to any other, who may possess more of the popular favor, or national confidence.  The Hozanna’s of blind Enthusiasts, I never covetted. The esteem of the wise and the good will ever be dear to the heart of / Sir your obliged humble servant

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Alexander Hamilton, 10 March 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adams, John

Sir
Treasury Department March 10th. 1792

In obedience to the order of the Senate, of the 8th instant, I have the honor to transmit thirteen returns exhibiting, as accurately as practicable, the various descriptions of vessels employed during the year ending the 30th September, 1790, in the import trade of each State at that time comprehended in the Union, together with the foreign places from whence they departed for the United States.
I have also the honor to transmit thirteen returns exhibiting, as far as the public accounts admit, the various species of Merchandize imported during the year ending on the 30th day of September, abovementioned. Two of each sets of these returns, vizs: Those for North Carolina and Rhode Island, are not for the entire year, as they were not during a part of it comprehended within the Union.
It is ascertained by the Books of the Treasury, and the fact will appear from a return now in preparation, that the proportion of duties accruing on goods imported in foreign ships during the year ending the 30th of September last, is less than one-fourth of the whole duties on goods imported.
These returns, having been completed prior to the order of the Senate, do not convey all the information required by their Act, but as they contain a considerable portion of what is directed, I have thought it best to transmit them without delay. The remaining information will be prepared as expeditiously as possible; though the preparation of a part of it will require very considerable time.
With the highest respect, I have / the honor to be,—Sir, / your most obedt & most / humble Servant,

A. HamiltonSecy of the Treasury


Title: To John Adams from Henry Marchant, 12 March 1792
From: Marchant, Henry
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir,
Newport March 12th. 1792—

I take the Liberty to introduce my Friend Dr. David Olyphant to Your Notice.—He is a Native of Scotland, but for many Years a Citizen and Physician of Eminence in Charlestown So. Carolina; and for some Time one of the Councill of that State.—A few Years past he married here a Connection of mine and of Your old Friend Govr. Ward,—a Miss Vernon who accompanies him,—a Lady of exceeding good Sense—and fine Accomplishments—The Dr. is a Gentleman of good Sense and a most agreable Friend, and I believe is now pursuing some Interest at the Ohio in behalf of himself and others—
I find You have appointed a Committee to let You know what You have to do, that you may depart as early as the begining of April—I am very confident now of Us, presumed Congress would rise till May or June.—The Business we recollect as recommended for Consideration is in great part unfinished. But perhaps You will never see a clear Board.—Sure I am You must wish for a Relaxation.—I wish Your Return to Boston may be by the Way of Newport.—We will endeavour to give You good Bridges or Boats:—And if common Fare,—a sincere Heart with the Hand of Friendship—And all the Return we wish is, that You will not conceive by doing this You or Yours will give Us trouble;—For I assure You we will not be at any—In all this Mrs. Marchant sincerely joins me, with sincere Respects to Mrs. Adams—
I am most respectfully Yours

Hy: Marchant


Title: To John Adams from Alexander Hamilton, 15 March 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adams, John

Sir:
Treasury Department, March 15, 1792.

In further pursuance of the order of the Senate, of the 8th instant, I have the honor to transmit a return of the exports from the United States, for one year, ending the 30th September, 1791, exhibiting the islands and countries to which those exports have been shipped.
This document is completed so far as the returns have been received at the Treasury; but an additional is yet to be made of the exports from Charleston, in South Carolina, and from some ports of inferior consequence, for the two last quarters of the returned year, the papers relative to which have not been received. There is also transmitted a return of outward tonnage for one year, ending March 31, 1791.
In regard to the remainder of the statements required by the Senate, it is very uncertain whether the delay of the returns from certain of the custom houses, and the length of time they will require, will not prevent the completion of them before the end of the session.
I have the honor to be, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant,
Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the Treasury.

   This statement is not now to be found.


Title: To John Adams from John Jay, 23 March 1792
From: Jay, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
N York 23 March 1792

            I have this Moment afternoon recd. the Letter wh. you did me the Honor to write on the 21 Inst—by & by which I am informed that the Trustees of the sinking fund are being equally divided in opinion respecting the Construction of their authority under the Act making Provision for the Reduction of the public Debt, my attendance had become necessary—
[crossed out: On considering the Act in Question it appears to me that any three of us with the approbation of the President are authorized to direct the Purchases to be made of the Debt However entwined under at its Market Price of not exceeding the Par or base Value that I do not percieve that their authority is contravened by the Act except at the market price, if not exceeding the par or true Value thereof——By this I understand that we are never to give more than the market price, and that was we  are restrained from giving that, whenever it exceeds the Part, or true Value thereof——end of crossed out]
As the  the Season of the Year, & the State of the Roads I have  obedience The Debt was imposed upon you by the ActI shd. conceive it to be  my Duty instantly to set off for repair to Philada., of the Day were it not for the Risque of being detained   by now for last days the Curcuit Court here, was not to declare as that there would be no Risque of I ought return in   to me to allowd it—considering   out any  Risque of being  by the bad weather & bad Roads common at this season—from the circuit court wh. is so shortly to be held in this city as the point in Question can turn only on the word of the words of the Act, Would it not answer every Purpose to state the to state Would it by me—I well would put it the most mature & candid consideration, & take the earliest opportunity of conveying to you my Opinion respecting it Be pleased Sir to p with great Respect
I have the Honor to be with great Respect / Sir / yr. most obt. & hble Servt


Title: To John Adams from Abijah Hammond, 30 March 1792
From: Hammond, Abijah
To: Adams, John

Sir
New York March 30th. 1792.

At the moment when Colo. Smith was leaving this Place Yesterday for England, the enclosed letter was delivered to him by the Unfortunate Man who is the Subject of it—Not having time to Write to You himself he has Requested me to do it; and it being the cause of Justice and Humanity I comply with Pleasure, heightened by the hope that through Your Patronage he will Receive from Congress that aid which he Seems very Modestly to ask and justly to Merit
With great Respect I am / Your Excellencys / Very Hble. Servt.

A. Hammond


Title: To John Adams from United States Congress, March 1792
From: United States Congress
To: Adams, John

               March 1792

            Mr: BassettNoBradleyNo" Burr.No" Butler.No" Cabot.No" Carroll.Aye" Dickinson.Aye" Ellsworth.No" Few.No" Foster.No" Gunn.No" Hawkins.No" Henry.Aye" Johnston.Aye" Izard.No" King.No" Langdon.No" Lee.Aye" Monroe.Aye" Morris.Aye" Read.NoRobinsonNo" Rutherford.No" Stanton.No" Sherman.No" Strong.No" Wingate.No

            20 N7 A.After apportionment in the amendt. made by dividing the whole or aggregate numbers of the people in the United States by  thirty thousand, and apportioning them among the several States by  that ratio, untill they shall respectively have the number to which it will entitle them, and the residue of said members among those States having the highest fractions—On motion to amend the amendt. last agreed to by inserting these words after the word apportionmentYeas & Nays No 2


Title: To John Adams from Francis Dana, 2 April 1792
From: Dana, Francis
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Cambridge April 2d: 1792.

I beg leave to introduce to you my friend and kinsman Capt. Hobby who is going on to Philadelphia partly with a view of obtaining the appointment of Inspector of the Militia for the eastern part of our Commonwealth, if it shou’d be in the gift of the President.  I am told the bill which has passed the house upon this subject, leaves the appointment & pay also, to the several States: This, with submission to the wisdom of that body, is an unadvised provision, & I fear, if it shoud stand in the bill, will be the means of loosing the principal benefits to be expected from such an officer.  However this may be, you wou’d confer a new obligation upon me, by affording my kinsman any aid in his views, which you can consistently with your own ideas of things in the station you hold in our general Government—As to his qualifications for the office, I can say that I believe he is well known to Genl. Knox, and will also be recommended strongly to him, by Colo: Jackson to whose regiment he belonged, I am not sufficiently intimate with Genl: Knox to write him myself on this subject I shou’d otherways do it—If you shou’d speak to him upon it, and shou’d see no impropriety in it, you may mention to him that I have written to you upon the subject and shou’d be obliged to him for his interest in Capt: Hobby’s favour.
You will be pleased to accept my sincere wishes for your political & domestic welfare, &c.
I am dear Sir, / with much respect & esteem / your obliged friend & humble Servant

F M Dana
P.S. Mrs: Dana joins me in presenting our best regards to your Lady


Title: From John Macpherson to John Adams, 2 April 1792
From: Macpherson, John
To: Adams, John,United States Senate

					To the President and other Gentlemen of the Senate of the United States of North America.
					April 2d: 1792.

				The Petition of John Macpherson most respectfully ShewethThat his attachment to and desire to serve this Country has been the cause of his loosing an independent fortune by the Revolution.Therefore he begs liberty to relate the following facts, viz. That he has enriched North America more than any man of his station ever did, as he took more prizes in the French War than any other person ever did that commanded a Ship of War, That by so doing he acquired an independent fortune to himself, which fortune he has entirely sunk by still endeavouring to serve this Country. That he rejected the command of Eighteen Sail of Cutters, of eighteen nine pounders each which command would have been more lucrative than any Admirals in the Royal Navey, not only so, but threw up the Command of three Vessels that he then commanded, rather than fight  against America, and immediately brought his family out again to North America, where he has met with nothing since comparatively speaking but disappointment, persecution, loss of Fortune and by his perseverence to serve the Country, reduced to perfect poverty.When our Army was sent to the Northward, he sold all his Houses and Lots in this City and called in three Mortgages with which he had Bonds and Judgements, and drew out of the Bank of Edinborough, Two thousand, Eight hundred pounds Sterling, not only so, but sold his Bills of Exchange for one per Cent less, to be paid in Gold & Silver, as no other Money would suit the Army going to Canada.He must also take the liberty to declare, that he has run a greater risk of his life than any Man in the United States, and by which he changed the face of the War, as he was the cause of taking the Hessians at Treton. General Washington at first refused to give him a pass to cross the Delaware, declaring if he granted his request, he certainly would be hanged as he must be well known to many Officers in the British Army, but afterwards, by the intercession of General Armstrong, crossed the River at Carrials ferry went thro’ their whole armies and succeeded to his utmost wishes, gave General Washington proper information, who made a very proper use of the intelligence he got, If such Services are not to be rewarded in this Country, some will think there is no gratitude in it. I hope the honorable Congress will take such notice of this petition as to convince me, there is both Virtue and Gratitude in North America,—Your speedy compliance may lead me from poverty and distress and fix proper Sentiments in a gratefull heartAnd your Petitioner as in / duty bound will ever pray

					John Macpherson—


Title: To John Adams from Jonathan Trumbull, Jr., 5 April 1792
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.,Adams, John
To: Adams, John

				An Act for an apportionment of Representatives among the several States, according to the first enumeration.

					April 5, 1792

				Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That, from and after the third day of March, in the year one thousand seven hundred and ninety-three, the House of Representatives shall be composed of one hundred and twenty members, elected within the several States according to the following apportionment; that is to say: Within the State of New Hampshire, five; within the State of Massachusetts, sixteen; within the State of Vermont, three; within the State of Rhode Island, two; within the State of Connecticut, eight; within the State of New York, eleven; within the State of New Jersey, six; within the State of Pennsylvania, fourteen; within the state of Delaware, two; within the state of Maryland, nine; within the State of Virginia, twenty-one; within the State of Kentucky, two; within the State of North Carolina, twelve; within the State of South Carolina, seven; and within the State of Georgia, two.

					Jonathan Trumbull, Speaker of the House of Representatives.John Adams, Vice President of the U.S. and Pres. of the Senate.


Title: From Thomas Fielder to John Adams, 10 April 1792
From: Fielder, Thomas
To: Adams, John,United States Congress

					To the Honble the Senate & House of Representatives of the United States
					Philadelphia 10 April 1792—

				The Memorial of Thomas Fielder Respectfully representingThat he having invented an Apparatus for facilitating Navigation for which he has obtaind the grant of an exclusive privilege, by the requisition of Friends to the extensive utility of the Idea he has at a very considerable expence attempted the prosecution of his Design but perceiving that its completion (so as to carry it into useful effect) will be too ponderous a weight for him, and having clearly ascertained that the Publick weal is so materially concerned in no time being lost in pursuing this Business he trusts that it will not be incompatible for their Patrons and Friends to grant him such aid for the present as in their Wisdom they may deem meet, which he will cheerfully refund at their own timeThis is most Respectfully submitted by

					Thomas Fielder


Title: To John Adams from Henry Bromfield, Jr., 13 April 1792
From: Bromfield, Henry, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Sir,
London 13h. April 1792

At the Request of our mutual Friend Mr. Copley I have shiped on board the Polly, Capt. Reed for Philadelphia a Case directed for you containing two Prints of his Earl of Chatham—It is accompanied with a Letter from him & a Bill Lading under this Enclosure—
With them I beg Leave to present my sincere Respects to yourself & Mrs. Adams, and shall be happy in ev’ry Opportunity that my Situation here may afford of being in any Degree useful to you.—
I have the Honor to be / Sir, / Your most obedient / Humble Servant

H. Bromfield Jun.