Title: From John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 29 July 1822
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					9.My dearest Louisa.
					Washington 29. July 1822

				Your journal of the 24th. and 25th. has been received—The complaint of cold, and the want of winter Clothes, almost makes me stare; though even here we have had two or three more moderate days— I give you an extract of a Letter which I have this morning from my father—“If you cannot come on yourself, I wish Mrs Adams would, and bring with her, her Brother Johnson.—The air of Quincy Sea, and rocky mountains would do her more good, than all the Air and Physick of Philadelphia.”This invitation you and your brother will consider—If his operation is not to take place till October, perhaps a tour to Quincy, so easy now to make in the Steam-boats might be of use to him—I would send George to accompany you, but I can hardly bring my mind to part with him, as he is now my only companion—If you conclude to go, I know it will highly gratify my father, as well as our Sons—But I would not urge your brother, if he has any aversion to it and leave it entirely to yourself. I have also received a new and very urgent invitation from Mr Boylston to revisit Princeton this Summer; but that must be deferred.I have spent another evening, last week at Mr Calhoun’s; and yesterday George and I went with him and dined at Mr Dainel Brent’s in the Country. Gales & Seaton were there—Also Mr Pearson and his daughter—Miss Brent—Coll. Freeman and Mr Pleasonton—An agreeable party. Saturday Evening we had a Soirée at Mrs Richard Forrest’s. But Sir David Dunder, and Megrims Blue Devils had such fascination for George that he forsook our worshipful Society for the Children of Thespis.Ever affectionately your’s

					J. Q. A.


Title: To John Adams from Ward Nicholas Boylston, 29 July 1822
From: Boylston, Ward Nicholas
To: Adams, John

					My Dear Cousin
					Mount Badinage 29th. July 1822

				How unfortunate I am, that I was not ealier informed of your magnificent intentions with respect to your establishment at Quincy—my Hundred Thousands would be some help to be sure, but a small one in comparison with the extended  of the many that are to be blessed with it—But what will you say to me, when you hear of my building a large stone edifice on the summit of Wachusetts—for the reception and contemplation and cure of those who are afflicted with short memories & slanderous tongues—and that I have thought of appointing Mr. Jonathan Russell first president of the , with a right to all the Blueberries that grow on the mountain, the previledge of Catching all the Skunks, & Woodchucks, & Hunting all the Foxes & hares that inhabit it—and when the President or other members of this establishment becomes unfit by age, or incorrigible  in Disposition to remain there—. The They will be provided with a place of retirement for Life on the Bald Rocks of Mount Desert, (where)“With vast amazement they’ll survey,The wonders of the Deep,Where Mackerell swim, and porpoise playAnd crabs, & Lobsters, Creep:—”What do you think my Dear Cousin of the scheme, is it not humane that those who have forfeited all confidence in society should be able to reach as far as they can the highest earthly situation  in this state & may by a Contemplation of the Heavenly Bodies, be stimulated to a due preparation for the future glories beyond them—Your wisdom and long life of experience may suggest to your Dutifull Son, the improvemts that you think may be necessary, which will be strictly & promptly obeyd by your affectionate

					Badinage Junior


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 29 July 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Philadelphia 29-31 July 1822

				29 Rode out to Mr Sergeants about 2 miles and a half from Philadelphia on the Ridge Road. The Place is really beautiful leading down to the Skuyllkyll and laid out with a great deal of taste. It belonged to a Mr. Clifford whose plaything it was until last Summer, when he fell a Martyr to the prevailing fever at the the of age of seventy—and it now belongs to his Widow who in consequence of the general derangement of his affairs, has only preserved this place, out of a large property which she brought him. Sergeant Rents it very moderetely, and has no trouble with the use of it; so that it is fast going to ruin—Mrs. S. was quite unwell when we first arrived there, but recovered very much before we left her. She is one of the most attractive women I ever knew; and literally steals into ones affections without our being immediately sensible of the effect she produces—She is not possessed of any great beauty but there is a sweetness, a loveliness about her, altogether irrisistable—He is a lover Husband who seems to live on the smiles of his bewitching Wife—Their family generally presents a charming picture of genuine domestic happiness—We passed a delightful Eveng with them, but returned early; after Tea when I went to see Mrs. Jackson, who is a very interesting Woman, dejected by long suffering, and highly respected by all her connections—We met there a Mr. Hemphill who married one of Girards Nieces—Mr. Girard has three Nieces; and one of them was married about a fortnight since, and returned to his House and took her bonnet off, supposing herself quite at home—The Servant having announced her to the old Gentleman, he sent her word by the Servant his “compliments, he never desired wished to see her again; and desired she would quit his house immediately—He objected to the marriage from the beginning of the courtship; but the Lady would have her way, and has met her punishment—Dr Physick has a daughter nearly in the same predicament. She has engaged herself contrary to his wills; the young mans character being altogether exceptionable; and The Doctor informed her that if she persevered in her determination he would disinherit her; upon which she answered he might do as he pleased, her Mothers fortune would be a sufficient provision—This is liberty—Intemperence is said to be the cause of the fathers aversion to the match; if true most certainly an amply sufficient one—More especially as it proved the bane of his own happiness in his matrimonial connection—He was obliged to separate himself from his Wife some years before she died—Mr Sergeant is impatient to get your promised paper, the termination of the “Diplomatic Controversy”—I see by the Papers a suit is Instituted by Jonathan against Mr. Haut. What motive can that man have for his accusation at this time? Is it that insatiable love that seems to be innate in human nature, to trample even unto death? Surely it is cruel to torture a poor crushed worm in this way; particularly while he is in the hands of a Goliah!30 Mr. Keating has just called with the best respects of the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Freemasons inviting me to visit the Lodge this Eveng which is to be opened to the publick—Fortunately for me the secrets of the Society are such, as to insure their private visitors from the honour of a brand—I of course accepted this honour and am to go at half after five—I suppose this is a great honour!! perhaps, or most likely I shall find it the farce of much “ado about nothing” Mr Duane has received Letters from the Emperor Iturbide inviting him to go to Mexico as Minister from the United States—I give you this information that you may be at no loss for an honourable Representative of the Union in that Country—It would be a kindness if his Imperial Majesty would provide for this Gentleman, in his own Country—he is certainly well calculated for so turbulent a Hemisphere—Was disappointed of the Masonic visit—Took a ride in the course of which we met C. Ingersol with one of his Sons, a fine sprightly Boy—His Wife and family are again very sick, and they are all going to the Sea Shore—We likewise paid a visit to Mrs. Powell—Poor Boston appears to be suffering greatly in her turn—But I cannot find out who are the Merchants who have failed—There is much exageration I understand in the Rumours that are afloat—31 I received a Letter from George yesterday in which he speaks of your health being much affected by the heat—Pray if you are sick do not deceive me, for I could not bear the idea of being absent while you are indisposed—One of the Papers announces that you are to be absent all Summer from Washington—I wonder where he got his information? Mary Roberdeau called this morning—She goes to New York tomorrow with her father who has been detained here by Law business—Hopkinson who piques himself upon his prophecies, must look a little down at the recent news from Europe, which breathes nought but peace between the threatening powers—The miserable Turks are not to be extirpated yet, though the poor Irish seemed to be scourged by a higher power—Ever Yours

					L C A


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 31 July 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Philadelphia 31 July—1 Aug. 1822

				July 31 Mrs. Powell, Mrs. Fisher, and Mr Saul from New Orleans, called on us, and I returned all my visits excepting the one to Mrs. Markov—My Brother is again better—Poor Mrs. Lee—We were told on our arrival that Dr Physick seldom ordered his patients into the Country if he could do any thing for them; and this circumstance has been a proof of his practice—I believe she remained but a few days under his hands. The situation of the poor Girls is indeed melancholy. Was Mr Lee with them when their mother died? I understand that the Dr. sent Mrs. McLane to the Sea Shore—Her case is nearly desperate and this is a kill or cure experiment—Mrs. Charles Ingersol is also in a very delicate state, in consequence of the fever which she took last year from which she has never recovered—Consumption stares all these interesting women in the face, and I much fear no medical skill will be sufficient to save them—Mrs. I— is a very handsome woman She has an eye that speaks and emits sparks—This is not always a criterion of character—but it sometimes is an indication of something more than mind—The weather is remarkably cool; so much so that in the Eveng we are obliged to close our windows, and many persons are leaving the Sea Shore in consequence of frosts—August 1 This Eveng we are to visit the Masonic Hall—Mr Keating is to accompany me—Mrs. Meredith says she cannot think what I should go there for? As it was an invitation from the Grand Master and I was informed it would gratify him, I thought it best to go. I hope I have not done wrong. No one affects parade less than myself; and I am almost too apprehensive of thrusting myself upon the publick; therefore I hope you will not condemn me—There is not a particle of news stirring unless you have read Mr Hollands Oration on the 4th of July in North Carolina—It is a happy specimen of Oratory, and some of the figures are so elegant and tasteful. Have so much of that attic salt which gives a pungency to wit, and of deep pathetick, which steals into the soul and melts  its sweetest sympathies; that I almost doubt if any one will dare to follow in the path of this too bright original; and surely the “Ladies of the fair” will find it difficult to listen to the soft language of flattery from any other Mouth—You must pillow yourself upon his support which is promised with much energy, and endeavour to improve your manners by imitating the fascinations of Mr Calhoun; and avoiding the “vegetable plant” immobility of your great Master who you are too much inclined to resemble. On this subject if I indulge my pen, from ludicrous I may fall into serious, but the constant hints of your most devoted friends, would almost urge me who am so far very far inferior to you in every thing, to give you a lecture on common sense; or in other words on that worldly and every day sense, which is so essential to adapt us for the common intercourse of society—In nothings, every one can deal—In true solid sterling sense refined by experience and strengthened by cultivation and acquirement how few!—When these things are united, man becomes a paragon and nobody can resist him—to you nothing is impossible—Cease to view a place hunter in every phiz, and you will find yourself at ease—At this critical time when all is warm in your favour, when the flash of superior talent has found its way into every soul susceptible of feeling; you should if possible seize the happy occasion to shew yourself to your Countrymen; and convince them that the coldness and austerity of which they complain, is not a part of your nature; but has only been produced by situation and circumstance—You will not I know be displeased at this expression of my wishes; for one of the qualities for which I have most respected you has always been, that of bearing to hear the truth without impatience when it affects yourself—This is indeed an epitome of my favorite fable, and I think if I go any further I shall certainly share the fate of the Frog, and burst with my new born dignity of adviser—this is King Log advising Jupiter I will therefore close my performance and throw myself on your mercy—N. 9 has just appeared with your urgent desire for me to go on to Boston—My Brother cannot accompany me; His food is of such a quality and requires so much care in the preparation as it must cook from eight to ten hours every day, it is absolutely necessary for him to remain stationary—Mary is to pass the next week at Borden Town, and I can go on the week following if you think it expedient—If I do go, I must be back by the beginning of September; and I hope it will not prevent my boys from making me a visit in the Winter, as they will not have seen you for more than a year and a half: My funds are so low, that it will be impossible for me to start until I hear from you. On Thursday next I shall be ready to start, and shall take Mary with me—I have no doubt I shall find a Gentleman going from here whose protection will suffice without robbing you of George who I would not have you part with on any account—I shall not go into New York at all if I can help it, as a Boat starts from Jersey City—It will shorten my journey and lessen the expence—Shall I send the carriage home or leave it here? You must give your directions in full.—I am happy to see that you are so gay. Walsh is much better, but goes into the Country so much that he seldom comes to see us—Hopkinson says he is much hurt by your truth in the controversy—If I go I shall lose the whole of the Boys vacation and have the plague of commencement—Without a carriage to keep up any communication between us—I cannot conceive why you cannot go now your controversy is ended


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 1 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					My Dear Sir
					Philadelphia 1st August 1822

				It is very long since I had the pleasure of writing to you. considering George a better correspondent I resigned the pen to him but being here and out of the way of hearing from you so often as I used I am induced to write and recal to your recollection some of your old friends who make frequent enquiries concerning you—Among them and perhaps the first in rank is Mrs. Powell whose age and memory nearly equals your own all though she has been a greater sufferer having lost one of her eyes by a paralytic affection—Her mind is as vigorous as ever and she loves to talk over times past when active memory retraces pleasures long gone by and fills her still vivid fancy with actors and scenes in which she shone a brilliant constellation—The manner in which she speaks of your loved partner is truely gratifying to me. It is a theme on which she loves to dwell for in it she can portray excellences universally acknowledged and esteemed and cite a model for the rising generation Her conversation is full of anecdote and I wish I could see you together as I think your reminiscences would be delightful—My poor Brothers health is so very low that I fear it will not be in my power even to take a trip to look at you this Summer. But I hope the next I shall be able to pass the greater part of it in Quincy among friends to whom I beg you will kindly remember me and at the same time be assured of the respect and affection of your daughter

					L. C. Adams—

					P.S. Mrs. Lewis intends to visit Boston and told me one of her first visits would be to you whom she remembered with the sincerest gratitude and affection—


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 2 August 1822
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					My dearest Louisa.
					Washington 2. August 1822.

				I continue to receive your journals—that of the 29th. was the last; and they would continue to be most agreeable, if they all gave cheering accounts of your brother—Count de Manon called on me yesterday and told me he had seen your brother last week; and thought he looked not worse but if any thing he thought rather better than he had a fortnight before. Tuesday Evening we had a party at Dr Sovell’s—Mr Maigs the Commissioner of the Land-Office was there, and told me he was going next Morning for Philadelphia. He promised to call and see you.  Wednesday we had a pleasant dinner at Mr Frye’s. Mr George Johnson was there—Mrs Frye told me for the first time of something which put me as much out of humour with Kitty, as I was already with her Husband—They are both too bad—I enclose you a Letter, which by the hand-writing, I perceive comes from our old friend Mrs Agnes Porter—I hope it contains as much Court Calendar Scandal as usual; and if it does you must let me know all about it.My friend Walsh has no cause to be uneasy at his neutrality between brother Jonathan and me—He could have no just reason to decline publishing his Letter; and after publishing it, I think he was in some sort bound to be neutral between us—He has fairly given both sides of the question; and in one of his last papers he says that I have the best of the personal part of the controversy—If there were a human being, who after hearing both sides hitherto said otherwise, I should have thought even this too much for him to say—But I care nothing about the personal part of the controversy—I once thought Jonathan Russell my friend, and valued his friendship—I now bear him no more ill-will than Uncle Toby did to the fly, that annoyed him by his buzzing—But the mischief is in his principles and Walsh has not only departed from neutrality, upon them; but committed himself so deeply in publishing the Letter, without waiting to hear what I had to say against him, that I expect he will never be on the right side, concerning them—whether if he has seen the comments upon the controversy in the Louisville Public Advertiser.  to them, of about half a column in the  Argus of Western America—a paper printed at Frankfort Kentucky The piece I mean is in the paper of 18. July; and if I mistake not comes from the first hand—It betrays not a little vexation and disappointment, and contains proportionally as much misrepresentation as Jonathan’s own productions—it seems that in Kentucky the Question has been asked, how the Mississippi proposition was so desperately wicked, Mr Clay came to sign his name to it?—And in this Paper, which is anonymous and headed “the Ghent Mission“ he is defended upon the ground of the New Instructions—Jonathan says the new Instructions had no effect on the question at all, and appeals to Clay, for the assertion that the question was never taken after they were received—But this piece is as spiteful against “the Secretary“, as Jonathan himself—It says if the Secretary were President, and the British were to claim the navigation of the Mississippi to-morrow, he would be obliged to grant the claim or contradict his favourite principle—Jonathan, in the Boston Statesman, says, by the way, much the same thing—Tis the last poor thread by which they think they have the Secretary, still entangled; but he will break it, and could wind it round Mr Clay himself. Last Evening we saw Booth in Richard the third—He is here, engaged for five Nights—The House was tolerably well filled, but I did not like him so well as when I saw him in England. He seemed to have little respect for his Audience, and not to think them worth pleasing—I doubt whether he will fill the house even his five Nights—I enclose you a check for 100 dollars—The horses I suppose do not cost much more for keeping at Philadelphia, than they would at home; and they would be of so little use to me, and are of so much to you, that I wish you by all means to keep them. especially as they have recovered from their periodical ill-health.Ever faithfully yours

					J. Q. A.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 3 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Philadelphia 3 Aug. 1822

				August 3 After despatching my Letters we received Georges N. 10 with one from Mrs. Porter in London in which she is desirous that you should dispose of 20 copies of some work written by her father which she has just published, the first Vol of which she has sent to Mr. Gracie with an order to send them to you, and she has fixed the price in England at half a pou 18S. 6d a Vol. The poor old Lady as usual talks of Sir R and Lady Liston, and the Compliments of Lord St. Hellens, who she tells me has promised to present her book to the King—This evinces a little more of that twist as poor Mrs. Hewlett used to say, which more or less pervades every body’s brain—By the same opportunity my Brother received a Letter from Mrs. Smith, in which she informs him that they had sold off every thing they possessed to pay the  expences of their voyage, and were to sail in the Amanda Melvina, about the 11 of July so that we may expect them every hour—It is impossible not to feel a little uneasy about them, as there are so many pirates in those Seas, and they are so atrociously cruel that the idea of their falling into their hands is truly horrible—We rode out into the Country which we do every evening by order of the Dr who is desirous that my Brother should exercise as much as possible in this way, but walk very little—When we returned, we found a present from Mrs. Fisher of a most beautiful night blooming Ceres—It is impossible to form an idea of any thing more delicately elegant—The Flower is white in the globe form, surrounded by three or four rows of leaves in a saucer form, rather spiral, of a pale or rather yellow green—These leaves are so separated as to have at a distance the appearance of feathers, which adds much to its beauty by its waving lightness and brilliancy—Like our Sex it only displays its charms to advantage by Candle light, when it enchants all beholders—The heat yesterday and to day is almost unsupportable and I am very anxious concerning you, as I understand you bear it worse than usual. I am happy to see by all the Letters which we receive that you are so gay in the City. At any rate it serves to vary the dull monotony of every day quiet; and draws you for a few hours from your too constant and oppressive duties, which really wear you to death.—To attain the highest honours your Country affords is certainly an ambition worthy of a great mind—but I much doubt whether it can ever prove a reward for the harrassing toils, the desstrest distressing anxiety, and the load of obloquy and loathsome calumny through which you must wade to obtain it; and when possessed of the station; I observe by sad experience a man must descend as he rises, and suffer nearly as much persecution by way of clearing the road for his successor—All this however is nothing compared with the thorns which strew the pillow of a chief Magistrate in an elective Government; which must pierce the Soul of a man of sensibility, and prove destructive to every comfort—You will smile at my view of these flattering distinctions, which lure but to betray: but my intimate acquaintance with head quarters has taught to me the value of this coy and fleeting blessing; and has in a great measure destroyed my taste for such felicity—I believe it requires all the congealing qualities of our present Executive, to support the situation with stoicism; and to make it lucrative if not easy—Major Jackson sat an hour with us—He is a remarkable instance of the changes incident to human nature in the advance from youth to age—When I knew him seven and twenty years ago, he was thought a man of wit, brilliancy, and that light and superficial reading, which just suffices to give an appearance of learning without any real or solid acquirement—He was fitted for a boon companion who could with the assistance of  Joe Miller set the Table in a roar, and his society was ever hailed with glee by the lovers of pleasure—How the picture is reversed—his vivacity is lost sunk in heaviness—his wit has sunk changed into dry unmeaning jokes, and his general conversation has lost the charm (which was once so attractive) by its perpetual and wearying sameness—When I meet with such person’s I cannot refrain from asking myself of what man with all his boasted reason has to be proud—How few like your father retain the power to delight; the desire to enlighten—How few have the talent to “gather honey from every opening flower” and lay it up in store for future generations—Here and there we meet with such examples, but they are like the Alloe Aloe which blooms but once in a Century  to delight the astonished world—I am very happy to learn that John and Charles are doing so well—May they meet the reward their exertions merit, and if they cannot attain to the height to which we aspire; may they at least meet with the approbation of those on whose kindness and indulgence they must depend—We see many promoted far beyond their merits, and many sunk whose merits ought not to be questioned; and we hourly witness how hard it is to force mankind to do us justice, even at those periods of life which have afforded opportunities to perform acts which entitle to us to claim the highest rewards, nay even to demand them—In no situation can we be exempted from caprice and partiality; and the children of a public man must share his popularity or the advises of party—Talents are the gift of God cultivated and improved by man’s labour—To some the labour is not great; to others acquirements are hardly earned: all we can ask and all we can require is, that the most shall be made of opportunity, and that done we must endeavour to be satisfied—Ever yours.

					L C A.

					Throw this like all the rest of my Letters among your waste paper


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 4 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Philadelphia 4-6 Aug. 1822

				August 4 Your N. 10 was brought me this morning containing the order upon the Bank for which I thank you—I am more uneasy than I can express at the part of your Letter concerning Kitty and cannot possibly guess what it can mean—Surely there are persons in the world so singularly constructed that their minds are utterly incapable of improvement from experience which generally teaches the most impressive Lessons—I confess I feel alarmed knowing her indiscretion and that suppleness of character which leads her so often into difficulties—Whatever it is I know you would not have written with so strong an expression of censure were you not convinced of the truth of the allegation—Yet I must still hope as the world is full of exaggeration that her error whatever it may be is not so bad as it has been represented—What is to become of them?!! God only knows—It is a dark and dreary prospect—John has written me a Letter which I shall enclose to you as you will see by it how busy your father is with Mount Arrarat which he has disposed of to the Town of Quincy as a present on certain conditions—His Letter will however explain all the particulars—Charles has likewise written to me—His tone is very lofty and he says he is more and more convinced of the unjust partiality of the Government of which he says he judges by their conduct to John—Mr Gilpin called on us this morning, he is a very young man, full of talk; who will not find his entrance into life impeded by the want of easy assurance—This Even’ Mr. Paul sat an hour with my brother, and I amused myself with his Grandson who has lately been on a visit to the Sea Shore of which he was giving me a long account. After telling me that they first went in a Boat and then rode in a Carriage, he got to the big water and they all went and let the serf roll over them—but he said I must not go with myself, but must let a man take hold of my hand, because  he must snap me down and wash the dirt off of me—I thought this a capital account of the Scene for a Child of three years old; and the Ladies must have a little fun then the Grandfather said it was very true, and he had taught two of the Ladies to swim himself—I have not seen the pieces you mention in the different Papers—not have I seen Walsh for some time—he is gone to see his Son as some School in New Jersey, and I do not know when he will return—Mr. Keating took Tea with us this Eveng—He is one of the most steady, studious, respectable young men I have seen for a long time—It is said he is engaged to marry Elizabeth Hopkinson—but I do not know if it is true—He is a Roman Catholick but perhaps this is no objection—He is mild, amiable, and modest—As he resides in the House where we board, I can judge pretty accurately of his conduct although I seldom see him—There is not a word of news and no end to my nonsense—5 August The day being more suppotable supportable I walked out and returned my visits to Mrs. Mackos, and Mrs. Paul—being the last which I owe and all ettiquette business here is I trust settled—The Count de Menon I see by letters from Mrs. Thornton and George, is returned to Washington and full of importance; and quite Sur chargé des Affaires. In pity to the poor little fellow you should cut him out some small piece of work to rest a claim on for future fame; otherwise like his pendant Harris, he may sink into obscurity—Kirby says he is one of the deepest intriguers who under the mask of easy familiarity and sociability gets admittance into families, and uses the information thus acquired for his own purposes—My opinion of his talents are is not such however as to rank him among the dangerous What has become of Mr. Randolph Canning? Are his simpathetic feelings still so excited as to make it impossible for him to leave the Manor? Lady Hervy it is said has likewise listened to the soothing balm of consolation and returned to London and mixes again in society—We may expect shortly to hear that some Lord or Earl or Duke inspired by his Grace of Wellington, has made proposals to this hitherto disconsolate fair—Betsy Caton writes that visits are exploded altogether in person, and that in London they have adopted the Continental fashion of hiring a man to distribute Cards—As we generally follow the usages of the old Mother Country, perhaps we shall tumble into this convenience; a wise measure at least as it would put an end to a great many silly pretensions—John Randolph will perhaps introduce it, and then it must be admited; for though acknowledged to be more than a little cracked, he will be known to have associated with great folks, and that will ensure his success—Mrs. Porter says the Rush family have too much to do, to take care of their family; to mix much in the World—John Smith she speaks of as usual, and says his health is much better since he keeps a horse It is almost time for Mr. R–—h to return—He has represented our eoconomy long enough—6 We have just received a Note from Mrs. Fisher inviting us to go to the Woodlands if Miss Hamilton had visited me—As this was the condition I declined although the matter would have been of little consequence to me—as you know I am not fastidious as to making first visits when abroadBut as two branches of the family have received attentions from me, it would look too much like demanding a return; in addition to which poor Mrs. Fisher would have been quite frightened at the idea—We are much the same in health as usual / Ever Yours—

					You will I fear find my journal more than tiresome


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 5 August 1822
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					My dearest Louisa
					Washington 5. August 1822

				Your Journal of 31st. July and 1st. instt. is received. I enclose you another Check for 100 Dollars, that you may be  payable want of funds, if you should finally conclude to go on to Quincy—But besides the doubts which are mentioned in your Letter, arising from the situation of your brother, I have others since I have this day learnt that the yellow fever is in New-York—my fathers invitation was of your brother with yourself addressed here. I seconded it, I was in hopes your brother might be able to go with you, and that it might even be serviceable to him—But although it would rejoice my father to see you, I am persuaded he would lose much of that pleasure, if it must be purchased at the price of depriving your brother of your affectionate and soothing Society, and if you would be obliged to return the beginning of September, you would scarcely have it in your power to see our Sons, unless by making them truants to their Studies—I would leave it therefore still entirely to your own determination, and if you decide not to go, I know my father will be entirely satisfied, if you allege the state of your brothers health as disenabling him, and making it inconvenient to you to go If you go, you had better leave the Carriage at Philadelphia, for the use of your brother till your return—I have no occasion for it here and the difference of expense of maintaining the horses, and Coachmen there or here will be inconsiderable. I would by no means have you send them back, till you come yourself.Your Letter contains so much excellent advice, that last Saturday evening at the Theatre where I was seeing Booth in Sir Edward Mortimer, and Mrs Burke in Little Pickle, I determined to commence my practice upon it, and I made myself as amiable as possible to Mrs Gales and Miss Kitty Lee, who were in the same box with me—Now to commence a course of politesse and gallantry with the thermometer at 100—was truly distressing, and that I was enabled to undertake it proves to you, how deeply I was convinced by your Eloquence—I asked Mrs. Gales how it was possible for a woman to love a man with such honours as those of Sir Edward Mortimer—She said his misfortunes made him interesting—and I loved her the more when I heardSuch tenderness fall from her tongue But as Mrs. Gales has a husband and I have a wife, I thought it was time to stay the use of my fascinating powers there; and with Miss Lee I was still less successful, having only had the advantage of supplying her with a Play-bill. Now you must know there are already two Conquests upon which I calculate, both atchieved by your advice—And I have a presentiment that if I ever do acquire the faculty of being irresistible my greatest atchievement, will be upon the “Ladies of the fair—who as Montesquieu wisely observes are the best possible judges of some of the qualifications which constitute a great Man—Your  communication to me to cease viewing a place hunter in every phiz; I suppose is connected with the advice to make a summer excursion to visit my father—Most of those whom I see here, would think themselves very ill used if I did not view them as place hunters, for they neither desire to see nor to be seen by me in any other capacity. A place or a subscription is the object of all the new acquaintance that I make, and if I could satisfy the seekers of the first of these Classes as easily as I can those of the second, they would not have so much reason to complain of my vinegar aspect, as they do—You may be assured that I feel in the fullest extent the value of your advice, as well as the affectionate motives by which it was inspired—But you are sanguine in the observation that at this time all is warm in my favour—The last attacks upon me have been in some degree failed; I have not been yet killed in the battle and the tool used against me, has lost its edge, or been broken in the conflict—But the controversy is far very far from being ended, and its management becomes more difficult the further I proceed—Upon the main topics of Jonathan’s Letter, my victory is not yet complete, and although I can make it so in every part, I cannot do it, without exposing him in lights more odious than those in which I have exhibited him already—At this moment the Public are so far from favouring me, although they have done justice to him, that a very large portion of them, are on the look out to catch me tripping, and will seize upon the slightest indiscretion to turn the tables against me—The Dispatch and Enquirer has copied that part of the paper in the Kentucky Argus, mentioned in my last Letter to you which points out the direful consequences if the Secretary should be President tomorrow—and calls upon me to answer it—I shall answer it, not at-all to the Satisfaction of the Enquirer. But the Enquirer has suppressed the part of the paper in the Argus which admits that Mr Clay signed all the papers, and is therefore as responsible for the obnoxious proposal as the Secretary—The St. Louis Enquirer has done better still—He has pompously published the President’s message to the House of 4 and 7. May, and Jonathan’s private Letter and has suppressed the duplicate, and the Secretary’s remarks. These Enquirers stick to their character. They still Enquire, and take only such answers as suit themselves— Ever affectionately yours

					 J. Q. A.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 6 August 1822
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					My dearest friend.
					Washington 6 August 1822

				I enclose you a Letter from Mrs Frye—upon whom I called last Evening—Mr Frye doubts whether he will have it in his power to make his Northern excursion this year—I conclude that even if you go to Quincy, you will not leave Philadelphia, so soon as Thursday and accordingly continue writing to you at that place—I did suffer much for some time from excessive heat—But the cool weather has relieved me—We are all comfortable—The river bathing has been very refreshing and useful both to George and me. We have now a week of interval and low tides.Five years this day have passed since we landed at New-York—What a portion of my life and my labours!—May the next five years be but as prosperous, and I shall have no feeling but of gratitude to indulge—To you may they be five times more happy.Affectionately your’s

					J. Q. A.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 6 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					My Dear John
					Philadelphia 6 August 1822.

				Your Letter of the 29 reached me safely the day before yesterday and as it contained information concerning your Grandfathers plans I enclosed it to your father to whom it will probably be very interesting—Your regular and constant attention to your College duties gives me the utmost pleasure and though it may not be crowned with as much success there as you hope or have a right to expect rely upon it your exertions will always be duly appreciated by your parents whose cordial approbation will reward your toils independent of the advantage which will accrue to yourself in your future course of life—Continue then my beloved Son to deserve distinction and sooner or later you will obtain it and whatever occurs do not let disappointment affect your spirits or mortify your pride—disappointment is the hard  lot to which man was destined and when we do not bring it on ourselves by our own folly it is very supportable and requires but little courage to sustain it manfully and with great magnanimity:—I observe what you say about Sir Mungo. His character is well drawn and there certainly are such in existence but they are almost too unpleasant to contemplate and show us the mind of man in a state revolting to humanity—Walter Scott is on a visit to Ireland it is said to cull subjects for future novels. As he generally loves to delineate the dark shades of life he could not have chosen a better time for his visit when famine glares with spectral eyes upon this wretched Nation and adds its horrid gleam to all their former varied crimes and sufferings—Such pictures will suit his magic pen and he will have full scope for painting horrors in their most wild and gloomy forms—Your Grandfather is happily amusing himself with a project which will afford occupation and interest to his future days and I am rejoiced to hear it is likely to yield him so much pleasure and the Town such serious advantage—It would probably have produced little to his Son’s and his Grand children must learn to make their own fortunes without depending on any one but themselves—It gives me so much pleasure to write to you I scarcely know where to stop when I begin. Browns Lectures I have not read though I have no doubt I should take great pleasure in their perusal but my head is a little like a sieve and seems ill calculated to derive any real advantage from any sort of reading whatever—It is the experience which I unfortunately have acquired of the effects of want of attention in regulating my mind and an early neglect of proper application to the subjects which ought to have engrossed my attention that and that rendered my perceptions so rappid and indistinct that makes me so solicitous that your studies should be of a deeper and more durable nature as I am perfectly aware that the pleasure to be derived from a matured cultivation heightens every enjoyment in life—Your Uncle remains much the same—Love love to my rattled Brain Charles and to yourself from your Mother

					L C A


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 6 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Philadelphia 6-7 Aug. 1822

				August 6th. It is very cold here to day so much so that we can sit comfortably with the windows shut—My Brother suffers very much from this change his nails are quite blue—Miss Hamilton and Mrs. Fisher called on us this morning—Mr. Harrisson is still very sick and I think Mrs F. appears to have some fears concerning his recovery, which from all I can gather, will be very doubtful—I really was very much distressed at seeing a poor Dog taken to day who was harmlessly walking through the Streets—He was caught up and the bow String applied so instantaneously that I had not time to quit the Window so as to avoid the sight of his agonies—The practice of allowing the Dog catchers so much a head for as many as they take; is a sufficient encouragement for any cruelty that they are inclined to execute—I am far from sentimental: but I detest all those customs which have a tendency to corrupt the heart of youth; and such acts however necessary should be performed in the least offensive manner possible, and with as much compassion as the nature of the case will permit—By this Evengs Paper I observe Mr J Hunt has come out very decidedly regarding the charges made by Ariel, and poor Jonathan will surely find it very very hard to get rid of them satisfactorily—After all it amounts to nothing more than what Bayard did; and yet to whisper such a thing would be high Treason—His —his Letter, and his signature which the Count Harris Levity as they called him in Russia displayed to Montreal and other Gentlemen there, are sufficient proof of the fact—Poor Jonathan proves by the exquisite folly of his conduct, that as Mrs. Harrisson says, “there are more madmen without the Hospital than within”—Walsh is forced to give him up spite of all his kindly feelings, and I suspect he does not like much to come near me—Miss Hamilton is a fine looking Woman upwards of fifty, full of health and spirits, looking as if she enjoyed the good things of this world, in abundance of which have fallen to her lot—She gave us a pressing invitation to her house at the Woodlands; where we promised if possible to visit her—Mr & Mrs. Becket reside with her with one or two other members of the family, until the Estate can be divided—Miss Erwin has just called on us She has been on a visit to the Country, and has just returned. She is a little angry with the Count de Menon, who she says called on her during her absence, and stated that he had a Letter for her which he would call on her again and deliver: and she never saw or heard anything more from him, and supposes he must have taken her Letter away with him—This is a singular circumstance for a man who piques himself so much upon his gallanterie—Mr. Baker is here in a deplorable state of health, and looks I am told wretchedly—I have not seen him—He stayed sometime at Bristol, but I fancy was not much benefited by the air there—It is said to be too dissipated for an invalid—Mr. Keating called.7 The Doctor has just left us after performing the operation in part with the utmost success and giving great hopes of the recovery of our poor patient—Tomorrow he is to call again as there are still three or four tumors to remove, and he can only take one at a time for fear of exhaustion—The suffering was not very great, but the soreness will of course be painful—Dr Physick say’s the state of the disease previous to the operation was very much ameliorated by the course pursued which has rendered it much easier in its performance—Mr Paul is now with him, and he is really fortunate in meeting with so many kind friends, to cheer and support him in his tedious suffering—During the trial I was walking about my chamber, sick of anxiety and dread; a prey to the exaggerated terrors of a fertile imagination; and the Dr had actually been gone a quarter of an hour before I suspected his departure—How singular it is that the mind should have such a propensity to magnify the evils of this life. Surely they assail with sufficient strength in reality, without the added dread horrer of anticipation—The fact is I suppose that in situations which require particular energy, the soul is braced to action; and the sufferings of the flesh are partially forgotten—but it requires an extraordinary stimulus to shake off the natural supiness of mere corporeal matter—You will wonder at my philosophising in this way at such a time, but it is the consequence of the recent event, and the strech in which my mind was kept, you must therefore excuse it—Mary who has been quite sick for the last week is gone to Borden Town to visit Elizabeth Hopkinson—The air and the Mineral water there will reinstate her I hope in her accustomed health—Mr. Keating procured me the papers you mention from the Westward. It requires more than a Master hand to parry such a thrust as the Louisville paper contains, which is penned in more than a masterly manner if possible—Independent of any individual concern it strikes me as being a most correct view of the crisis approaching in this Country—which is evidently such as to necessitate the most decided measures on the part of the people, in opposition to the growing and dangerous cabals of the times—As to the reply I am not Lawyer enough to make something out of a mere nothing, consisting of prevarication and abuse—He (the Author) does not know how to support his own story—The old Proverb of “set a  rogue to catch a rogue” is here verified; and the two friends are likely to destroy one another without any assistance from others—Ever yours

					Do not say any thing to Caroline until the operation is completed


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 8 August 1822
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

my dear Daughter
Montezillo August 8th. 1822

Oh! that I could visit Philadelphia! and run about as I did Forty Eight years ago—to Roman Catholic Churches, Quaker meetings Anabaptist Churches, Methodistical Churches, Swedenborgian Churches—and Presbyterian Churches Not one Congregational Church could I find. Nor of a Unitarian Church was the possibility conceived by any one in that City.Tell Mrs Powell however, that I would now visit her before any of these Assemblies. That her praises of my beatified Consort cannot be exagerated. Tell her that I love her now as well as I did when I toasted her in a large party in the presence and hearing of her husband, who instead of conceiving any jealousy appeared to receive it as a compliment.—As indeed it was intended—Tell her that I know she never liked me very well, and that she particularly disliked my correspondence with Tench Coxe, as I did myself, and still do, and Tench Coxe himself too.—
Now I have something to say to you that you must not repeat to Mrs. Powell—She is a Lady of as Masterly an understanding as ever I knew, an understanding superiour even to her fortune, and worthy of the high station and Character of her excellent husband.—
My love to Mrs. Lewis—Tell her I shall depend upon a visit from her. Tell her that I once aspired to the honour of having her for a daughter in Law—the Wife of your Husband. Tell her that I had the impudence to say, that I know that General Washington wished the same thing.—How much more wisely does Providence dispose of us than we can dispose of ourselves!!
My love to your worthy Brother, and pray him to come with you to Quincy. Our Quincy granites breath an Oxygen air—so salutiferous, that I entertain sanguine hopes it would restore him to perfect health—Tell him I will go with you and him to Cambridge, to visit his Nephews; or even to Nahant or Nantasket beach, to eat Sea Perch and breath salt water air.—
Pray write again soon to your affectionate / Father
John Adams


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 8 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

Philadelphia 8-9 Aug. 1822

August 8 Towards evening my brother became much better. To keep his thoughts from his immediate sufferings and to amuse him with conversation is the best remedy, and produces the most wonderful change both in his spirits and countenance; and the most difficult part of the business will be to wean him from the isolated habits he has acquired by his unfortunate mode of living; which made him believe that no mortal breathing had ever endured such calamities as himself—At present to fix his mind on external objects is impossible, and I have not yet discovered the master passion; but I expect much from its powerful influence should I be enabled to excite it to a good purpose—At present he is too much reduced to be susceptible of much beyond the sense of personal feeling, and the dread of family disgrace—The arrival of our friends, from Pensacola has which we hourly anticipate, opens a large field for speculation and occasions some little apprehension, which by occupying his attention however disagreeably may be productive of the best results—Walsh tells me that Dr Physick thinks his desease is an inveterate dyspepsia, but that he hopes by rigid diet &cc to remove it, and once more set him on his legs but his recovery will be tedious The other complaint he says will be radically cured by the operation—This is the only modern radical that whose acquaintance can give me any pleasure—I was much diverted by a piece in the National Intelligencer giving a thourough dressing to that consequential Gentleman the Editor of the National Gazette—There is a neat and pointed Irony in it, which was very well supported throughout—It reads like Mr. Gales—A propos! I congratulate you upon your gallantry (by no means your first attempt) to her fair Ladyship; proceed you know from experience that when you please you can raise the fair and however insignificant they may be thought, their approbation contributes largely to heighten and brighten a mans reputation, more especially when he is accused of coldness and austerity—The softer Sex can best deny such slanders and through them it is easy to check its course by a little well timed attention, delightful to yourself and enchanting to them—Whatever we may think of a mans person or manners, if his reputation is great for abilities or learning, womans pride or vanity call it what you will, is ever gratified by his notice, because it raises her consequence in the eyes of her own, Sex and in that of the society in which she moves—. That sense of inferiority which by nature and by law we are compelled to feel, and to which we must submit, is worn by us with as much satisfaction as the badge of slavery generally, and we love to be flattered out of the sense of our degradation—We cannot give a greater proof of our weakness or our inconsistency; but in these two words consist the great charm of the female tribe for had we less of either which we should resemble the Lords of the creation too much; and lose our feminine attractions N 12 reached me at noon like all your Letters it was full of affectionate wishes which are thankfully recieved and reciprocated, though there is evidently a meaning couched in them which does not appear. our fates are so jumbled together that whatever befals we must support each other to the end and if the trial is severe we may at least take the privilege of grumbling out our discontent a privilege of no little importance if we may judge of it from the satisfaction it usually affords to those who have attained it—Howeve being naturally of a very sanguine disposition I will wait for the evil and not add to its bitterness by unpleasant anticipations—
What is the reason I am no longer afraid to write all that passes in my head or in my heart to you—Time was when my pen refused to mark the dictates of my fancy and I dreaded a censure where I claimed a friend—Perhaps it would be better for you if to a certain degree this idea still existed, as you would not be overwhelmed with such torrents of nonsense and egotism—but the flattering kindness with which you have received my former Letters, has I fear produced an improper effect and made me troublesome and tedious—remember however that I neither desire or wish to exact answers to my scribbbling scribbling; as your time and your labours call for more serious occupations and I would not add to labours already too oppressive for my own personal gratification
9 My Brother has slept well all night and is much better. The Dr. has not yet paid his visit and of course I cannot tell what he may judge proper as to the continuance of the operation—But I hope he will proceed as the suspence is insupportable—The extreme irritability of the nervous system however makes it absolutely necessary to take the safe side of the question added to which our good Dr. possesses the great gift of the most unbending firmness from which it is said he never was known to flinch. His aspect is stern and cold almost callous but his heart is full of sensibility and his manner during an operation soothing and kind towards his patient but never such as to indicate the possibility of his suffering himself to be alarmed or intimidated by the cries and groans of his agonized patients—This has the happy effect of giving them confidence and lessening if possible the horrors of their situation—It is said that it takes him several days to brace his feelings or his nerves to his duty but that once done he is immoveable— Ever Yours—

L C A.

We receiv’d an elegant bouquet from Mrs. Powell I am a great favourite—She is of the old school—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 9 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

Philadelphia 9-10 Aug. 1822

August 9 The Boston papers announce the death of one of our Grandees James Perkins—I think I recollect him many years ago; but I am not sure that I was acquainted with him. Was he not brother to S. H. Perkins?
They tell a ridiculous story here about Mrs. S. Perkins She came to consult Dr Physick concerning a desease to which she is subject in her throat, and which will finally destroy her—When called to see her she explained her case, and he recommended such remedies as he thought would prove efficacious, all of which she positively and rejected and declared she would do no such thing The Dr. made her a bow and took leave, observing that it was quite unnecessary to consult—She boasted much of her conduct saying she was delighted at the idea of humbling his pride, and showing the Philadelphians what she thought of their prodigy—This Lady I always understood was famed for her superior understanding; if it consists of such extraordinary stuff, it is not to be envied; for her word would go but little way to inquire such a colosal reputation, independent of the injury she was doing to herself in rejecting services which in all probability would ultimately have proved a blessing and prolonged her days.—He has just left us and was quite surpirzed at the favorable change in my brother since yesterday—He is doing even better than could have been hoped, and has only to exert a good stock of patience to get through his difficulty—You know I pique myself upon my nursing qualifications, and I hope this case wont discredit me—
In the National Gazette of this Evening, I have just read your last piece to the Editors of the National Intelligencer; and will only say “well done thou faithful servant” for well have you served the nation, by exposing to the publick the base and shamefull plot of your enemies; and so fully justifying yourself to the world for conduct which must ever honour you—This is the worst dressing the man has had yet; and you have certainly left yourself nothing more to say concerning him or his baseness—He is too deep in the mire into which he has plunged himself, ever to extricate himself unless you help him to a lift—
I have just received a very pretty Letter from Mary; and for the first time I begin to feel a little proud of my pupil. In the course of time I shall perhaps operate a change in her manners; and do away some little blemishes in her temper and character which have been subjects of anxiety and even distress to me—“All in good time” shall in future be my motto—Mr. Hopkinson and Dr Chapman called to see us and sat a few minutes to day—Poor Susan Lee. She is quite deranged and her recovery is deemed almost hopeless. This is the consequence of deceiving an unfortunate Woman, and suffering disgrace and calamity to steal upon her entirely unprepared—That man has much to answer for, and if he has a heart susceptible of feeling; it must be bitterly wrung by the domestic misfortunes which now overwhelm him—
10 The arrival of Mr. Lowndes is announced in last nights paper which however I had not seen until to day—His health is said to be very bad and his recovery very doubtful—My Brother is better again this morning and was able to leave his chamber—could the Dyspepsia be as easily eradicated as the complaint for which he is now treated he would soon be a well man; but it will require length of time and great care to produce a favorable change.
During my brothers confinement I have sent the Horses to Pasture—The man who has taken them says that Bob is very seriously sick; and that his malady might and probably would have proved fatal if I had not sent him to grass—A strict diet which is here the rage will however restore him as his desease is owing to overfeeding—As I have placed them myself with the assistance of our good Hostess, and with a man that Joseph did not know; there can be no deception; and I shall give more credit to his assertions in future—They are out at three dollars the Week—The operation is likely to be so prolonged that I know not what to think of our journey to Boston. We must wait the event. That infamous wretch Corri has I find been in Philadelphia and married a Quaker Woman. You must recollect why he was obliged to leave England. I went out to pay Mrs. Lowndes a visit the papers having announced her arrival, and to my utter astonishment found him at the Boarding House alone, though scarcely able to walk about—His fate I much fear will soon be decided—He told me his physicians thought it necessary for him to stay here, and he regreted that Mrs. Lowndes did not accompany him. I told him I thought that was easily arranged as Mrs. Lowndes could speedily follow him. He seemed surprized and observed it was not always easy to obtain an escort—This would prove but a small obstacle to me in similar circumstances. But Carolina Ladies cant move without assistance. This is one of the glorious effects of Slavery, and a woman becomes an automaton as helpless as an infant, and so dependent she cannot move without a dangler— My Brother says her face and manners would be sufficient guards  from one end of the Country to the other. I hope she will take courage and come to her sick husband as soon as possible; for certainly his appearance denotes the absolute necessity of her constant care and attention At all times Yours


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 10 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Philadelphia 10-15 Aug. 1822

				August 10. Mr. Joanoff and Baron Maltitz and Mr & Mrs. Pederson and Mrs. Markoe called—I had gone out to visit Mrs. Lowndes who I understood had arrived; but I found that Mr. Lowndes had come alone to consult Physicians—He came down to see me, and I was shocked at his appearance—if the Doctors even set him on his legs again, they will have performed a miracle—I also called on General Brown who sent to request I would go and see him; so that you see I am quite in the way of visiting the Beaux—but an old woman has her privileges—Anthony St John Baker pretends to be very anxious to find out from me, if Mr Canning is going to be married? I thought this very curious and suppose it was intended to find out what was generally thought of the subject.—Eveng at home alone—Mr Cook and Mr. Paul came immediately after dinner which is at two o’clock11 Waked at about three oclock with a smart chill and violent cramps; and continued very sick throughout the day; the Doctor gave me two grains of Calomel which was of great service—Mr. Paul brought his children and sat some time with my brother, who continues much the same—12 Much better this morning—My Brother is however not so well—His desease is so much on his spirits, that unless objects are perpetually occurring to draw his attention from himself, he sinks immediately; and fancies himself afflicted with every desease under the Sun—This day ten years I thought every wish of my heart was gratified in the birth of my beloved babe; and I had nothing more to ask—It was the Lord who gave her to me It was the Lord who took her from me—shall I dare to repine He best knew what was fit for his Servant; but he will in his bounteous mercy pardon me for regretting the loss of such a blessing—It is a selfish regret for she is in a world of bliss—Mr. Cook has been sitting here  great part of the morning—He has taken Joseph to look at a Carriage that he is about to purchase—it holds four is neatly made, and handsome to go with one or two Horses; and the price is three hundred Dollars. Mr. C. has partially settled his affairs; and has obtained possession of a Horse belonging to his Wife; and is likely to obtain some money, although he complains bitterly of the dilatory proceedings and thinks it necessary to remain here sometime longer to instruct John Sergeant—The latter say’s C— is a thorough going man of business—This mediation of the Emperors is not at all understood; and it is said that the latter part of the Law published; entirely destroys the first—I know nothing about and do not understand it it in any way—But it is as well to report what I hear as you may perhaps be able to put in a clearer light the doubtful parts; and have it published through some private medium, without appearing in the business—13 Very ill all day and quite unable to write—Mr Cook came and took Joseph to look at a carriage which he wishes to purchase. They ask three hundred Dollars for it, but Coachman does not like it—He has seen one at 225 which he thinks a better one—The Calomel slightly salivated me, and I was so feverish the Dr thought it necessary that I should lose eight ounces of blood; and I was almost immediately relieved—15 Mr. Saul came again last Evening and sat with my brother who was much better—I had a Letter from your father who says he intended Mrs. Lewis for your Wife; but matters did not turn out as he wished—morer the pity for she is a lovely woman, and would have been a prize worthy of you—I suppose however that I have been the gainer—At any rate I think on this subject that “whatever is is right.”—The Doctor has not proceeded any farther with the operation, and we cannot form an idea when he intends to terminate it—He is the most cautious man I ever saw. I was so sick as to be obliged to consult him; and he say’s I have narrowly escaped a billious fever: but my bleeding has entirely cured me; and I am now as well and as pert as ever—Mary is still at Borden Town enjoying herself very much—Did you notice the Article in Walsh’s paper concerning John Randolph. He will return, the Monkey that has seen the world; and play more tricks in the House of Representatives than ever—Mrs. Hopkinson is a famous punster and you know I enjoy any thing of the kind—We were speaking of Prince Saunders his house company &ca and I observed he was visited by many literary characters—She turned very quick and said to look for black Letter—Mr. Saul and Miss Patterson made me a visit this Evening—She has just come from New Orleans and Pensacola, where she saw Mrs. Smith who was preparing to return—She was looking very thin and out of health—The Vessel has arrived and tomorrow I suppose we shall hear something about them—They will probably go to his Aunt Thompsons; and there form some plan for their future measures—Still I ask myself what is to become of them? Surely the President has acted cruelly in this business, and they really have  a right to complain—But what does this avail—I enclose a small paper for George—Should any change be made in my plans, I will write before I put them in practiceGod Bless you—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 11 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

					August 11, 1822

				  I enclose the Letter just received I cannot guess why it was written to me—

					L. C. A.


Title: From John Adams to Ward Nicholas Boylston, 12 August 1822
From: Adams, John
To: Boylston, Ward Nicholas

Dear Cousin
Montezillo 12th. August 1822

Badinage Avaunt!!! I must now be very serious. I have recollected all I can of Homer Virgil and Shakespear—for you know I can read neither and I can recollect nothing comparable to your idea of a stone edifice on the top of Waychusetts Hill as an asylum for men and women in despair—it is in Milton only that I can find any thing approaching it, in sublimity. In humanity it has no competitor Despair! Despair! Despair! the most awful the most dreadful state of human nature. It is worse than madness for their is a pleasure as Nat Lee tells us in being mad which none but madmen know. and how tender, humane, and benevolent is your idea of transporting these poor Sons of forlorn hope after being a little soothed and composed by contemplating the Heavens from such a higth to another stone edifice on Mount Desert. There to contemplate the milder beauties and sublimities of the ocean and restore the poor creatures to some faint hopes. Your plans are so much more exalted than mine, that I hereby renounce every hope and with that you would contribute a farthing to my poor Latin School on Montezillo—But in all humility and modesty I beg leave to suggest, that you have committed one error in your plan. Mr: Russell is by no means a proper superintendant of your Hospital. Far from being in dispair, or sympathising with those in their forlorn condition he yet retains sanguine hopes of being ambassador abroad, or a minister at home and I believe that those hopes are well founded and will be realized
I have heard read a part, but not the whole of Mr Nichols’ book. I really think him the most upright and correct Statesman in England—
I am your loving CousinJohn Adamsby Louisa C SmithMiss Smith offers her affectionate rememberance to Mr: and Mrs Boylston


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 15 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Philadelphia August 15 1822

				The last budget from Europe was indeed a fruitful one according to Walsh’s paper—They appear to suffer every horror beginning with Fires, Plagues, Pestilence, Famine, Massacre’s, civil War, and tremendous Storms—All these are to be found in the different news—We have also a slight share of calamity, as the Country fever is said to rage again, and New York is violently afflicted by the Yellow fever—Our good old Lady says Miss P. that the Prophecies are about to be fulfilled; and that the bloody scenes recently acted in Greece, are only the beginning of the manifestation of the great displeasure of the Deity. The Turks she says are allowed to commit these barbarous outrages for a time; that the spirit of other Nations may be roused against them sufficiently to ensure their extermination—I have been reading Newton on the Prophecies; but the very little knowledge I have acquired makes it impossible for me to take part in such questions—I understand her better when she tells me she thinks Grammer is best acquired by attention to people when they converse, than when it is studied for pronounsation—Com Patterson called to day. He visits Washington next week for a few days—His Wife has lost the use of her Limbs, and is in the hands of the Physicians likely to do well—My Brother received a Letter from Kitty to day—They were fortunately prevented from sailing by a very violent Gale, in which she says it is supposed the delegates from Pensacola are lost—They were to Embark on the 17 of July—Mr Scott had gone to Caraccas; and was so intemperate it was not likely he would live long—They dined in company with the Governor two days before—Yesterday there was a great sensation excited throughout the City among the African’s, in consequence of the Schism in their Church—The Street might literally be said to wear a sable hue, and their jargon produced sounds neither sweet nor melodious—The jotty beauties were very active in the business; and really by their zeal in the righteous cause, would have done honour, to our head of the Church—Thank you for your long Letter, which I received to day at noon—It is so flattering and so kind, that you will only draw forth more of my sapient remarks—I am truly grateful for the attention you have shown to my wishes concerning Mr. Rh. He has reason to be still more so—Johnson wrote Mary that he intended to pay you a visit, and complained of a Letter which I wrote him on the subject of Montgomery, in which I expressed the same fear that your Letter contained this day—Like most Youths of his age, he does not like a “plain unvarnished tale” and would rather be flattered than hear the truth—He will I hope do well—His great complaints of dullness look suspicious, as that was the thing I most dreded—To get properly rid of this dullness is the main point—If he can do this, and resist dangerous but alluring temptations, I will pronounce him a hero—In the evening I called on Mrs. Fisher to enquire after Mr. Harrison. She told me he was much better though still partially confined to his chamber. I would not  ensure his life for a trifle notwithstanding—She is a very entertaining companion and full of anecdote—Speaking of Doctor Physick and his Wife from whom he was separated sometime before she died in consequence (as Mrs. Sergeant) informed me of her intemperance. Mrs. F—— said, one of the great causes of complaint on the part of the Lady was, that the Doctor would always sleep in Gloves and stockings, and never would allow the Window to be opened in Summer—This to be sure must have been a serious grievance; but the Doctor assigned as a reason for it, that it rendered his hand more susceptible, and encreased the delicacy of his touch, perhaps an additional cause of complaint to his Lady—Doctor Chapman (I do not know if for a similar reason) tries the pulse of a Negro with a stick, probably because he is exquisitely sensitive. The knowledge however which he acquires by this mode of practice generally hastens his swarthy patients to a comfortable resting place, lowly and deep—Among the news she gave me was the death of Mrs. Lloyd Rogers of Baltimore—I hope sincerely it is not true—It is singular that the three Sisters should each have lost a daughter so immediately in succession—Poor Mrs. Custis I feel for her from my heart—Walsh is gone out of Town again, and only visits the City occasionally—He is a martyr to dyspepsia, and tells me that there are days with him, in which he could hang or drown, for very sport I suppose—How wonderful it is that superior genius is almost always attended by this unsettled cost of mind; and how powerfully it teaches that man is not destined to attain beyond a certain point of perfection in this our nether world—This alone might convince the most unreflecting that greater things must come hereafter—I will deliver your Letter as soon as he returns from Borden Town—Tell George he can send me the little Box I wrote for by Com Patterson, who will return from Washington immediately—We have a most glorious dog day to day, which makes us all feel that we are but flesh and blood, and liable to great inconveniences which do not depend upon ourselves—When Physick came to see me the other day he asked me what I thought could have made me so sick: I told him it was probably having slept with my Window open, and the night being very cool—I said however I was used to it, you having never been  used to a hot Climate, could not breathe with the Windows shut—He immediately answered it would Kill him in a week; and he thought a set of questions should be put previous to matrimonial engagements, as they might prevent much mischief—


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 17 August 1822
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					My dearest friend.
					Washington 17. 1822

				An interval of three days without a Letter from you had  me, and I find by your Journal to the 15th. yesterday received that it was not without reason—I hope your health will not suffer by a Summer residence in PhiladelphiaMr and Mrs. Smith arrived here, the Evening before last from Pensacola—Johnson Hellen left us on Wednesday Morning to return to RockvilleI wrote you last Monday Morning that we were to dine that day at Dr Thornton’s with the Peter family—But before the hour of dinner came they were called away by the melancholy intelligence of the death of Mr  of Baltimore—George and I dined at the Doctors; but without other company.I spent Wednesday Evening at Mr Calhoun’s—Miss Hanson with a Miss Magruder was there—Miss Hansen sung two or three songs, with self accompaniment on the Piano—The more pleasant, as yours in the Drawing–room has been so long mute.We are burnt up with heat and drought. The New Moon has come in with a cooler atmosphere—and we hope for rain in a day or two—But the corn crops will fall short.John and Charles had written to George about my fathers donations to the town of Quincy—They are for excellent purposes and I hope will prove as useful in their consequences, as they are wise and virtuous in his intentionsI am very glad you visited Mr Lowndes and General Brown—and greatly lament the condition in which you found the former. He is one of the most valuable public men in the Union and his loss I fear would be irreparable.This is our bathing and swimming week, and I am this moment fresh from the Potowmack—We are all blessed be God, in good health, and Johnson Hellen says George has grown fat; which is a sign of health to him, as growing lean all summer is to me.In all Conditions I am ever faithfully yours

					J. Q. A.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 17 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Philadelphia 17-18 Aug. 1822

				August 17 Mr. Cook called to inform me he intended to return to Washington tomorrow; and while he was sitting with me the Doctor again went through the operation on my brother again which was as in the former case attended with complete success. For two hours after he suffered great anguish, but I gave him a small dose of laudanum which soothed the irritation of his nerves; and he was much relieved having neither fever nor pain—Mrs. Harrison and Mrs. Fisher call’d to see me as well as Mrs. Willing—but as I wished to keep the house perfectly quiet I denied myself—In the Evening I was much astonished by General Brown calling to pay me a visit—He looks very badly, but he walked here with the help of a cane, and the assistance of Mr. Kirby—He appears to be less sanguine of his recovery than his Physicians—but he acknowledges he has gained so much he begins to be a convert to some of their opinions—He has now a partial use of his hand, and can walk without a stick, but his leg catches, as if there was a partial contraction of some of the leaders—He was very much overcome by the effort of walking up stairs, and returned in consequence of it sooner than he intended. I have not seen the article concerning your toilet that George mentions; but I have no doubt it is highly diverting—My Brother as well as could be expected—18 This is our dear Charles’s birth day. God send him many many of them, and that each suscessive one may be happier than the last—This morning has been so engrossed by visitors, I have hardly had time to breathe—In the first place the Doctor; then Mr. Paul; then Major Jackson, Mr Ewing, Mr Cook, Mr Sergeant have sat with me; and each have talked of the attack upon your dress, or as I understand undress—In your own defence you must become a beau; and when I return I must assume the command, and, drill you into fashion—Ewing has been preaching to me upon the necessity of it; stating that the taste of the Country and the refinement of the times, makes it absolutely necessary to pay particular attention to it—people expect it, and it has a most imposing effect upon the vulgar—It injured Mr Jefferson and they say it injures you—I think I could give a good receipt for a Presidential Candidate according to the old style of Mrs Glasses Cookery—Take a good deal of small talk; a very little light literature; just sufficient attention to dress to avoid the appellation  of a dandy: a considerable affectation of social affability; with as much suavity as will induce the fawners who surround him, to fancy they rule him—A fine House, a Showy Carriage, and a tavern kind of keeping establishment; and you have the man whose popularity will carry everything before him—This forms a combination adapted to every capacity, and evinces none of that spiritual and intellectual superiority which excites envy or jealousy—Jumble up the ingredients together so that none shall seem to preponderate, and I think my receipt is complete—I was asked if you really went to Church without Shoes or stockings; I replied that I had once heard you rode to your Office with your head to your Horses Tail, and that the one fact was as likely as the other—If these are the heaviest charges they can bring against you; you must stand high indeed: as enemies never touch little things, when they can sieze on great ones—Often in the course of my life have I been convinced that we depend more on trifles for our success in the course of affairs than we are will to admit, and to scorn them is always dangerous—It is for this reason I have been so solicitous about a due attention to such things in my children—knowing that habits once fixed it is easy they   become as easy as to take our meals; and take no more time in reality—It has often astonished me that you who are so precise, and so methodical in every  thing else, should be so indifferent on this one point, which has so long been interdicted between us—I now touch on it with pain—Accustomed as you are to dwell on objects of high import, it is no wonder you should look with contempt on customs which to you must appear puerile—but to the bulk of mankind objects which strike immediately upon the senses, produce the strongest effect, and for the eye decides quicker than the ear—I preach to practice—you must practice to mend—Mr Cook has postponed his journey until Monday—I have sent you a box of famous Corn Plaister which you are to use according to the directions; applying it only once a week instead of every twenty four hours—I have just received a Letter from Mr Meigs telling me that the place is still considered as belonging to Mr. Smith—I hope they will sit down contented and be more prudent than they have been—Mr. Meigs speaks of him in the highest terms—They are I suppose with you, and I hope they will stay with you some time—Give my love to Kitty and tell her how disappointed I was at not seeing her—My brother has sustained this second trial better than he did the first; and Doctor Physick says he never performed an operation in which all the symptoms were so every way favorable—He gives him the strongest hopes of a rappid recovery, in which we shall both seriously unite—Gen Brown and Mr Lowndes are both better and no ill consequences resulted from the visit of the former Like you I defend my honest opinions


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 18 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Philadelphia August 18 1822

				By some thoughtlessness I dated my journal wrong the last time I wrote, and only anticipated my congratulations on the anniversary of Charles’s birth—My Brother is not so well to day, and suffers much from the heat. Indeed the changes are so frequent, and so great, in his complaint, that I vibrate incessantly between hope and despair—The Doctor is thought infallible and when his opinion is favorable, I am told it is treason to fear—but I am afraid no doctor however skillful can contend against fixed and determined habits; which defeat every endeavour that is made for his recovery, and I confess throw a damp upon my spirits which it is difficult to resist—I sometimes tremble lest there should still be some undiscovered cause which does not yield to the present system—He certainly wastes away in a wonderful manner and is as weak as an infant, notwithstanding which he supports the operation in such a way as to astonish his Surgeon—Mr Saul and Mrs. Fisher called yesterday but I did not see them and I was invited to take tea with her last Even but did not think proper to leave my brother who was confined to his bed—I am much grieved at Kitty’s not coming to Philadelphia as I thought the sight of her and the change for a little while, would have produced a great effect upon his spirits, and cheered him with new hopes: more especially as I am aware that her manners are much more amiable and agreeable than my own. Had she come I should have gone on to Boston immediately and passed the next Month, and that was what I meant by my change of plans—As it is and I am likely to remain here some time longer, I wish my boys could come to see me, and relieve me a little by their society from the care and anxiety which preys upon my mind—Mr. Ewing has been a journey and appears to be quite renovated in health and spirits—He is no longer the “melancholy Jaques” but is gay and cheerful and apparently quite happy—George is a prodigious favorite of his and Mrs Ewing he says is quite in love with him—Apropos George tells me you are very much overcome by the heat. Why do you frequent the Theatre in such warm weather?In the Evening Miss Purdon our Hostess had an Aunt and Cousin to Tea, and I was invited down immediately after they came. As I felt myself an object of curiosity, I was upon my p’s and q’s and tried to behave prettily. How I succeeded is to be known hereafter—The yong Lady had been at School at Frederick, and knew all my relations—As I am somewhat of a favorite with my good Landlady, I have no doubt she decked me in my best colours.I have proposed to go to Borden Town for Mary on Wednesday, and to stay there until Thursday Evening; but should my brother not be better I shall not attempt it—The last time I went he took to his bed and would not see any one during my absence—There have been great difficulties at Long Branch, and at the Yellow Springs about ettiquette—I hear, which have been both unpleasant and ridiculous—Mr Sergeant say’s that finding the last attack upon you knocked up by your Letter, they now are going to try the other tact, and make you out the greatest ettiquetter in America—It will not be long before they turn you into the greatest Dandy—I suppose there is wit incontrast—I warrant that there is absurdity.—How barren that field for censure must be, which obliges people to resort to such trash for abuse—These silly attacks will stand on record for posterity, and show how mean and contemptible were the sources from which they emanated—I like Walsh’s observations upon the Negro business in Carolina—When we see the thousands of Blacks parading the Streets of every City in the Union, and witness the Insolence and extravagance of their manners and appearance; we  have indeed reason to tremble for the future: and they cannot be too strongly impressed with the idea of their own weakness, and the dreadful punishments which they must be exposed to if they rise upon the Whites; whose interest it must be from one end of the union to the other to guard against them, either as free men or Slaves—Count Levity I suspect will move with caution ere he comes out before the publick—This affair of Mr. Seth Haut, will in all probability teach him prudence; and though he has but little reputation to lose (a great advantage that he has over you) he will still take some pains I imagine to conceal transactions, that would not give weight to his testimony against you—How few can stand against the brazen shield of truth—or gaze upon its splendor—I hear that Jonathan is writing again. His ink must be less frothy than it has hitherto been if it makes much impression upon his paper—He had better get Madame to write for him—Give my love to Kitty and tell her how much I am disappointed at not seeing her—I counted much upon the gaiety of her conversation and the sprightliness of her conversation manners in promoting a change in our brothers spirits, more especially as he grows so weak exertion becomes painful—Notwithstanding all this all his symptoms are considered good—The struggle you have to maintain is a great one; and we must be prepared for every event—That every effort will be made to drive you from your situation I am perfectly aware: but as I conceive that in elective Governments no disgrace attaches to a failure; it will cost me but little uneasiness; and there is but one point of view in which I can place it that can occasion me any regret—A man once accustomed to a wide range of business, cannot all at once sink into the routine of common every day life—without suffering materially by the change: as the mind is left comparatively vacant; and it is almost impossible to supply materials sufficient to maintain its activity—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 19 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Philadelphia 19-20 Aug. 1822

				August 19 Notwithstand the budget just sent, there is still some thing left to be said in answer to some observations of yours concerning place hunters—As you say they certainly do wish to live in your thoughts; but their pride is hurt when you suffer this to appear in your manner—Men often do things which however they feel ashamed of doing; or in other words they cannot bear to be made sensible by others of that, which they desire to conceal from themselves: and I really believe it is possible so to temper with the conscience, that people bring themselves at last to believe that what ought to cause a blush redounds to their honour—I do not however intend to say that the desire to procure respectable situations should be considered improper altogether—It is only that restless uneasiness which leads the idle to spend their best days in teazing and soliciting office, when they have youth and health to put them in a better path, that is to be condemned—Such people can never be satisfied, and are generally led on by their vices to endless want—They are the most insatiable and the most dangerous class of society; but alas an evil from which high Office cannot be exempt—An honest man can have no charm to fascinate this serpent tribe—At all events it is better not to spy out a beggar until he forces us to see him (in this sense more especially) when we cant or wont relieve him—Who is the Mr. Ackerman of Washington that lately died in New York?—I never heard the name in Washington—20 Mr. Ingersol sat with me some time last Eveng—he has been on a journey with his Wife; but he is afraid her chills will return, as she was again threatened with them on her arrival in Philadelphia—Major Roberdeau and Mr Long called likewise. The Major told me he was to leave the City to day for George Town—Mr Ingersol was anxious to know how Mr Wirts health continued, and seemed to think the death of Mr Rush’s eldest daughter might induce his return—How unfortunate they have been—this is the second since they have been there—Nothing new—This morning I was surprized by a visit from Mr. Bailey and Mr Vail, who informed me they had left you in very good health—Mr Bailey said you told him that I had sent for a box; but that Elizabeth could not understand what box I meant—I hope she is not growing stupid in my absence; for if I dont find every thing in the best possible order she will find me very cross—The box I spoke of contains some red and black beads, given me by Mr. Wyer, and originally contained the peruke brought by Madama de Neuville—if she now misunderstands it must be willfully—Ewing speaking of Mr Hunt and the suit instituted by Mr. Russell says, he dined in company with three Gentlemen the other day, who stated that they were in England during the Negotiation of the Ghent Treaty; and that the correspondence of Mr R with the mercantile houses there, was a matter of universal notoriety—and appeared surprized to find it should here be a matter of question or doubt—I told him I had never heard the thing whispered any where—He mentioned the names of the Gentlemen but I have foolishly forgotten two of them; the third was a McCorwin I think of Liverpool—Welsh has deserted me—He is perhaps nettled at some thing or other for his dyspepsia makes his nerves very irritable He tells me he is making a handsome provision for his family, and has no views beyond his present business—This observation I presume was intended for you therefore I repeat it—Mr Baily informed me there was a report in Town of the death of Mrs. Lowndes—I hope this is not true as it would materially injure her husband, who has the best prospect of recovery from his present illness—as dr Physick thinks his care has been altogether mistaken—God send this may prove true as he is in every extended sense a valuable member of society—Mr. Bailey announced to me the birth of the young Prince, which must be a matter of great joy. Pray make my congratulations to the President—I know they will be acceptable because they are sincere—Mr Mc.Lane is I understand so much recovered (though still and always a malade imaginaire) he is a candidate for the next Congress—He is rapidly recovering—Mary is still at Borden Town, and intends to remain there sometime longer I shall leave her there until I return home if she wishes it as this proves that she is not  much inclined to render us any services; or to lighten in any degree the hours of sickness and suffering—At her age it is but fair she should enjoy pleasure: pain and trouble always come soon enough—Mr Baily tells me that Mr Smith and Kitty both look very thin though in good health—Mr Cook will have returned by the time you receive this and will inform you how we go on— I have this moment received a Letter from Kitty and one from Charles—Tell Kate I wish she would take rooms at Mr Wheaton’s at least until I come and then we will talk the matter over—She knows my reputation for loving to interfere in other peoples concerns, and therefore will not wonder at any request; and tell her to make use of my cloathes till she gets my her own—Mr Charles is grieving bitterly about your fathers books—But he say’s that all the ragged boys from Quincy to Pensacola are to be educated free of expence in this new Academy , and no plough boys are to be found in the next generation to till the Land—Yours ever

					L C A—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 21 August 1822
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					My Dear Charles
					Philadelphia 21 August 1822

				I yesterday received your Letter and could not help smiling at poor Shaws distress though I really do not see why he grieves about the Books. Surely he did not pretend to go want them for his Atheneum? If not why does it concern him?—Your Grandfather is the best judge of what is to be done and his advisers know best what they are after—He appears now to be in the hands of a Judge—I wont say a criminal Judge—I am very sorry I shall not be able to come on this Summer I never gave up the hope until last week but I fear now it is impossible—Had your Aunt Kitty come to Philadelphia instead of going to Washington I should have left her to take care of your Uncle and paid you a short visit at least but at present his health is too low to permit me to leave him—What do you mean by the Poem? You rattle in your Letter as if I was on the spot and knew all that was passing—What tale have you been reading for even here I am quite in the dark? Your observations concerning religion are incorrect altogether—Of real intrinsic religion you cannot have too much—Of the hypocritical ostentation too little—But beware how you decide between the two and end in having none—At your age and in your present situation the less you talk upon this subject the better as it is probably not among your dissipated College friends that you will obtain any knowledge of the subject that can be of any essential benefit to your heart or morals—Deep rooted and early principles will I trust protect you from the foul contagion of free thinkers—I have sent your books by Mr. Bailey tell John I have not forgotten him and that his shall speedily follow—Does he propose to speak for the Boylston Prize this year? If he does tell him to practice to bawl as loud as he can His voice is so sweet he will only “roar like any Nightingale” and it would really give me more pleasure than I can express to have him gain one of the prizes—God Bless you both and ever love your Mother as you are loved by

					Louisa C Adams—

					P.S. Your Letters will soon be a secret to me as even with Spectacles I shall not be able to decypher them—Here lies the pith—