Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 15 November 1819
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 15 Novbr. 1819

				I should sooner have answered your Letter my Son had I not expected to hear that you had received Booth’s Journal the first Number of which  was sent to you last Month its he is an object of great respect and attention to our little family here the neglect and coldness with which you appear to treat his literary production has been cause of offence to all and he has determined to retaliate by relinquishing your correspondence altogether— I am much pleased to learn that you are so delighted with your situation and still more that you and your brother live so amicably together. I observe what you say as to the manner in which you check every thing like discord—if done with prudence it is correct but beware of arrogance or supercilliousness for though it may produce the effect of silencing it leaves a sentiment of rancour and bitterness in those towards whom you practice it which it is very difficult ever after to eradicate and in this way it has already operated upon your brother Charles who though very fond of you always insensibly betrays a feeling of resentment imperceptibly to himself at the tyranny which you have exerted towards and the sense of which galls his pride though he acknowledges that in some respects it may have proved beneficial to him—I fear you inherit a little of this manner from your Mother who acquired it from a foolish vanity which was early inculcated and never checked in its growth I have often repented it but have never been able entirely to correct it and it is another proof of how inveterate a bad habit becomes.We anticipate your visit with impatience and think you had better set out in company with Messrs. Taylor and Calvert who I understand intend visiting Washington at the same time I fear that the Boats will not go unless the Season should be unusually mild which will make your journey more tedious The Winter promises to be dull and the lovely birds to whom I wished to introduce you have flown to milder regions than ours and they have really left us to regret their loss—Adieu present me affectionately to your Brother and tell him I know not when I shall find time to answer his numerous letters the subjects of which are so variable that they require time and reflection to answer by your affectionate Mother

					L. C. Adams


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 26 November 1819
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Dear Sir
					Washington 26 Novbr. 1819

				The day before yesterday our City was enlivened suddenly by the report of the ratification of the Spanish Treaty and every thing looked gay excepting my husband who gave no credit to the news when yesterday morning a cloud in the form of Capt Reid of the Hornet dispersed our sunshine and confirmed Mr. As doubts and destroying all the fond hopes of the too credulous citizens—Congress will of course have sufficient to occupy them at the moment of their meeting and we are taught to expect a stormy Session—Perhaps after the experience of last Winter we ought to rejoice that they must now sit down in sober sadness to deliberate on great realities without the necessity of going so far out  of their way to seek subjects for the expansion of their abilities and instead of promoting dissention I trust their great object and aim will be to unite firmly with the Administration in support of the measures best calculated to promote maintain the best interests of the Nation—Mr. Calhoun has been very dangerously ill and we are still kept in a State of anxiety concerning him. report states that he is better but so very weak that there is still much to apprehend—He would be a serious loss being one of most promising men of the age—Washington begins to fill slowly and I am in hopes that I may soon be enabled to find something for a journal—hitherto I have heard of nothing but disasters and sickness—and I do not seek gloom when I can avoid it—The President is said to be in fine health and spirits—I have not yet seen any of the family—The Master who has now the care of Charles’s education informs us that he could fit him with ease to enter the Sophomore Class at Cambridge by next August twelve Months which has given his father and myself the greatest satisfaction as a proof of his improvement and ability but at present we are not desirous of urging the point and shall be well satisfied to have him enter Freshman—His health is wonderfully improved and he has grown quite fat and has a fine flow of spirits. You will have an opportunity of judging of his character from his Letters to Thomas which we seldom see.I have not seen Mrs. French but am told she is in fine health—Present me kindly to all the family—and believe with the utmost respect and affection your daughter

					L. C. Adams.


Title: From John Adams to John Peter De Windt, 29 November 1819
From: Adams, John
To: De Windt, John Peter

Dear Sir
Montezillo November 29th. 1819

I beg your pardon for neglecting so long to acknowledge the receipt of your letter—Announcing the pleasing intelligence of the Birth of another Daughter—but you are not so good as to inform me of  thier heir name—Blessings on her—and all her Connections—Please to present the family to of Verplanks my Condolence with them—on the departure of the Venerable Dr. Johnson—though at an Age fully ripe, whose learning talents Virtues and accomplishments I greatly esteemed and admired—
from your Affectionate Father
John Adam


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 29 November 1819
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					my dear Daughter
					Montezillo Novber. 29—1819

				one week more will effectually relieve you from your ennui which perhaps may be succeeded by fatigues more difficult to bear—if not more dangerous to Health—Kings of England when they have wished to carry some great point with Parliament, have informed that Assembly that the Eyes of all Europe were upon them it—and it may be safely said that the eyes of all Europe, and of all America North and South English Spanish Potuguese &c &c in the Islands, and on the Continent are now turned towards the approaching Cession of Congress, expectation is on tiptoe—Subjects of Debate, if not of passionate discussion, and party dissensions occour in great numbers—which however as they are better known to you than to me—I shall not innumerate—I rejoice to hear that my Son is in good health—yet I pity him, because I believe the task of public business will lie heavily heavier upon him, than any other person—The news from various parts of Europe ressemble the rumbleing noises and slight tremblings of the Earth which commonly precedes the great Eruptions of Volcanos—Germany Prussia England and Spain—Indicate symtoms of Effervescence—but I hope there will be no great explosion—for I have been stuned and deafen’d by the din of War—and I hope never to hear another blast of his trumpet—We are, here all well—pleasing ourselves with the hope of seeing the Collegians on Thursday our great Anniversary festival—my love to my Son—and my Grand sons—and all your, and their Connections—tell Charles that I have hope of a letter from him—and that I rejoice to hear that he is pleased with the scenes about him—and espicially with his school, and his new school mates—that I hope he will sometimes be permitted to hear the Oratory Logic and Rhetoric of the Fathers of this Country in both Houses of Congress—I am in as good Health, as when you left were here—Louisa and Susan send love—little Susan, also, sends duty to her dear Auntee—and talks a great deal about her—I am my dear daughter your Affectionate friend / and Father

					John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 30 November 1819
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

my dear daughter
Montezillo November 30th. 1819

One Week more will effectually relieve you from your ennui, which perhaps may be succeeded by fatigues more difficult to bear, if not more dangerous to Health—
Kings of England when they have wished to carry some great point with Parliament, have informed that Assembly, that the Eyes of all Europe were upon it—And it may be safely said that the Eyes of all Europe, and of all America, North and South, English, Spanish Portuguese & In the Islands and on the Continent, are now turned towards the approaching session of Congress—expectation is on tip toe—Subjects of debate, if not of passionate discussion,—and party dissensions occur in great numbers—which however as they are better known to you, than to me, I shall not enumerate
I rejoice to hear that my Son is in good health—yet I pity him because I believe the task of public business will lie heavier upon him, than any-other person.—
The news from various parts of Europe resemble the rumbling noise’s and slight tremblings of the Earth—which Commonly precedes the great Eruptions of Volcano’s—Germany Prussia England and Spain—Indicate symptoms of Effervescence—but I hope there will be no great explosion—for I have been stun’ed and deafened by the din of War—and I hope never to hear another blast of his trumpet—
We are here all well, pleasing ourselves with the hope of seeing the Collegians on Thursday our great Anniversary Festival—My Love to my Son, and my Grand Sons—and all your—and their Connections—tell Charles that I have hope of a letter from him—and that I rejoice to hear that he is pleased with the scenes about him—and espicially with his school, and his new school mates—that I hope he will sometimes be permitted to hear the Oratory Logic and Rhetoric of the Fathers of this Country in both Houses of Congress—
I am in as good Health as when you were here—Louisa and Susan send love—little Susan’s duty to her dear Auntee—and talks a great deal about her
I am my dear daughter your Affectionate / Father—

John AdamsPS kind rememberance to Mr & Mrs Smith—and Mrs Frye


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 1 December 1819
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 1 December 1819

				Your Letter my dear John was brought me just before dinner and I hasten to answer it more particularly that part of it in which you mention that Messrs. Calvert and Taylor intend leaving Cambridge a week sooner then than the commencement of the Vacation and I am authorized by your father to tell you to present his compliments to Dr. Kirkland and request he will permit you to leave Cambridge at the same time so that you may spend your Xmas with us at Washington—.You and George may get whatever is necessary for you to have to enable you to appear as you ought here as to clothing and he recommends that you should be very careful of your baggage Great Coats &c on the road. Mr. Adams is already authorized to advance you the Cash for your journey and we have spoken to a Lady at Philadelphia where we suppose you will probably pass a night and perhaps a day to take you and furnish you with an apartment She resides in North third Street number 30 and from there you must take charge of a box for me which you must keep inside of the Carriage and take special care does not get broken—You must not forget to bring Charles’s boots and Shoes who says he shall certainly be very angry if you do not answer his last very polite Letter—Be sure you look smart and bring with you a store of good humour to cheer the heart of your affectionate Mother

					L. C. A.


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 22 December 1819
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					December 22, 1819—January 13, 1820

				December 22nd 1819.—Went to visit a neighbour and walked as far as Mrs. Smiths.  This evening a small sociable party at Mrs Forsyths where I heard some good music by Mr. and Mrs Meigs the former of whom has a remarkably fine voice Mr and Mrs Lowndes were there. She has visited me in the most friendly manner all the summer during the absence of her husband but has now dropped my acquaintance on the score of etiquette. Mr Lowndes as well as all the members of Congress visit at the house very freely but it is understood that a man who is ambitious to become President of the United States must make his wife visit the ladies of the members of congress first, otherwise he is totally inefficient to fill so high an office. You would laugh could you see Mr A— every morning preparing a set of cards with as much formality as if he was drawing up some very important article in a commercial treaty. but thus it is and he has been brought to it by absolute necessity. You will at least have had the happiness of living to see the day when the prosperity of the country has arrived at such a pitch of greatness that Congress can find no better subjects to regulate than the common and general intercourse of society, I dwell too long on this subject which has certainly become much too high for my poor abilities, and which is to be decided by much higher-powers. It will soon be before the people then we shall hear and see much rank or no rank is the question.23rd Morning spent in seeking for two ladies who have done me the honour to visit me and after rambling through this spacious city for two hours and stopping at nine or ten boarding houses was obliged to return home fretted and fatigued to death and almost unfitted   (by my anxiety to return the civility shown me and the ill success of my efforts for which I shall never have the least credit) to attend a very large party at Colnel Bomfords where I felt myself bound to go they having been at my house last Tuesday and made it a point. In the evening we stopped at Mr Sanfords to take Mr Davis whom we met a few doors from it returning home on foot.  We took him up and with Mr and Mrs Smith proceeded to Colonel Bomfords where we literally had a jam as it was scarcely possible to move.  when we had squeezed ourselves into the presence of the Lady of the house who however did the honours very handsomely (She is a pretty and pleasing woman and very much beloved) was perfectly stupified by the heat and dullness of the party. returned home at ten o clock. Our dear John arrived from Philadelphia in fine health. he left George there24 Rode out again today in search of the Ladies and proved successful they were however not at home and I left cards and cards of invitation—Called on Madame de Neuville—25 Xmas day—Passed it at Mr. Frye’s George having arrived at my house time enough to go with us after being detained a day at Baltimore in consequence of the Steam Boat having run aground—It was a family party social friendly and agreeable—Mr A— dined at the Russian Ministers to celebrate the Emperor Alexanders birth day—returned home at ten o clock—26 Walked to the Capitol and heard Mr Post the Chaplain of the Senate. He gave us a good Sermon but rather flat and insipid The echo is so distinct in the House it almost produces a ridiculous effect—drank Tea at Mrs. Smiths—27 Went out to pay visits with John and George to the  Heads of Department having received 19 morning visits before we left the House—After we got home Mr. & Madame de Neuville came to invite them to dine with her on Wednesday—Cardelli gave the Children a lesson of drawing—28 Kept myself tolerably quiet for my evening party and made all necessary preparation which was well attended—Several of my Cousins from Frederick came and the party went off pretty well Mrs Cathbert and Mrs. Houstoun from Georgia and Mrs & Miss Dickinson from New York honoured me with their presence I mention them particularly they being Members Ladies and ettiquette having become a political question—Mrs. Decatur & Miss Monroe the daughter of the  President were detained some time after the company had departed in consequence of the failure of their Carriage—retired very much exhausted—29 A very sick day therefore a blank in my Calendar—Engaged to dine at Mr. de Neuvilles—Mr A— and George carried my excuse after I had in vain attempted to rise and dress but fainted away and was put to bed again immediately again—John out Shooting until too late to go—Drawing room at the Presidents—George introduced to him and his Lady—30 A party of Gentlemen to dine at 4 o clock in a tremendous Snow storm—All but five of the Gentlemen came notwithstanding the weather. The Vice President the Speaker Govr. Barbour Genl Smith Mr Sanford Mr Wilken Mr Mason Gov Dickerson Mr Wirt. Col Trumble Mr Eward, Mr Lowndes and Mr Thompson of the Navy Department—Mr Crawford Mr Calhoun Mr. Macon Mr Rhea and Mr Pinckney sent excuses—The dinner was pleasant but I was not well enough to enjoy it.—John was very useful to his father and assisted in carving very much to our satisfaction their general deportment is very much what it ought to be modest and well bred and we have no reason to complain of any want of discretion—There was much good humoured skirmishing between the Gentlemen and the Speaker was uncommonly civil and affable—does this betoken a storm in petto— 31 Staid at home all day being quite unwell and the weather severely cold—In the evening the Children took their lesson of drawing—All appears quiet and the alarms on the Missouri question seem to be hushed to peace at least for a time—some think it an awful pause as the Union itself is threatened. They are  now endeavouring to unite Main and Missouri and think by this means to weaken the restricting party and the great object of our great Legislators is to excite some new and violent sensation in any quarter that is likely to divide the attention of the public from the main point of discussion: many people however doubt their success as the Nation is in general rouzed to a state of exertion which will not be trifled with—May all these evil forebodings be brought to nought and may our confederacy be more solidly sealed by the present issue of the present difficultyJany 1 1820 Miserably sick but went to the Presidents to pay my respects on the return of the new Year—Not so crowded as usual in consequence of the severity of the cold—which exceeded by six degrees anything before experienced in this place—Passed the Evening sociably with my children who have hitherto been  blessings of fair promise—God grant they may continue so and glide through this world of Passion and temptation without stumbling. Mr Forbes passed the evening with us and we amused ourselves with a game of Loo. He brought a copy of a Letter which Mr A— has been obliged to write on the subject of ettiquette—So thus he has been brought much against his will in consequence of a formal complaint made to the executive concerning his not paying first visits to the Senators after having had a Cabinet meeting in which no agreement could be made as to the establishment of an ettiquette: this has necessitated the step he has taken and tho’ it may make you smile it will prove to you that we are not what we profess to be in this Country and that trifles may be magnified into things of serious import—And it is evidently understood by persons high in Station to be a step to the Chair of State—This is perfectly confidential at present altho’ I have no doubt it will soon be public—2 The weather intensely did not go to church—but was under the necessity of going to see one of my Sisters on business of importance and made a few calls on my way home—Nothing occurred during the day worth notice excepting the visit of one of the new Senators from Virginia—3 Left home at twelve o’clock on  my usual business and dispatched nine visits in a circle of about six miles—A continuation of the American has appeared in the Richmond Enquirer in which there is a very splendid and bold defence of Slavery—These papers like the former ones which  in the National Intelligencer are written with great talent but of principles so loose and so free that religion and morality are perverted to his purposes and have no influence whatever over his mind—His papers make a strong impression on the minds of youth who reflect but little and are naturally led away by the force of their imaginations and I much fear they are calculated to do much mischief by rousing the most intemperate passions—13 The weather is most severely cold but we  are all well and as happy as dissipation can make us. I have been negligent with my journal but will endeavour to repair it—Yours affectionately


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 23 December 1819
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

my dear daughter
Montezillo December 23d. 1819

As I take a great interest in your pleasures, and your troubles, your last Journal has given me a large share of both—the social scenes are delightful and the prospect of trouble is afflicting—I am interested too in the Journey of our Collegians who came here on Thursday—sett all the Tailors with their Needles in Motion—and on Saturday went to Boston with their Uncle who fitted them off with Boots and Caps—and saw them safe in the Mail Stage at one oclock—You will probably see them before we shall hear from them—I wish you much joy in their Society—they will draw many eyes upon them—some perhaps of good Nature, but more I fear with less benevolent feelings—they must be very Cautious of their Words and actions, very modest and reserved—it will be a very interesting Session of Congress that they have to attend—I am not so much afraid of manufacture’s Bankrupt Acts and twenty other dittos that may pass under the Ship—But the Missouri question will be a very serious one—
The Caucuss for the approaching Election will occation no difficulty, for Mr Monroes Administration is more Universally poupular than any that has preceded it. His late message has not a dissenting voice, not a murmur, not a whisper, nor a Criticism has appeared against it. The Missouri question however hangs like a Cloud over my imagination—I am strongly inclined to believe, that if the Sentiments of the People in that Territory could be fairly collected and Ascertained a majority of the Suffarages would appear against the admission of Slavery—I am sure it is their interest to exclude it, and I think I can prove it to be so, to a demonstration—That Territory will multiply in people in a quadruple Ratio without Slavery—for Migrations into it from all the States North and East of Virginia—will be very numerous if there are no Slaves there—and very few of them are Labouring people. In New-England New-York Pennsylvania &—hate to go among Slaves or if because they cannot get employment among them—or if they do, they are considered upon a level with them—and the middling Class of People of those who have houses and families and small Farms, will not sell their little Establishments and remove to such a distance, to settle in the Neighbourhood of the great Lords of immense tracts of Uncultivated Lands—Inhabited chiefly, and Cultivated wholly by great hoards of Black Serfs—the rapid multiplication of Inhabitants in Ohio, and Indiana, is a practical ocular demonstration of this truth—if the objects of the great Speculators in Missouri Lands is a rapid increase of the Value of their property, they ought for their own interest as well as for the feelings of humanity to exclude Slavery from their State—
Such is the little budget of Politicks this Morning from your affectionate Father

John Adams.my love to your great Statesmen and your two Sons—and all the rest of our friends


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

my dear Daughter
Montezillo January 1st. 1820

Compliments of the Season, and what is better prayers that you may enjoy the present year and as many future years as you can endure in health Peace and Competence—I congratulate you, on your having your Olive plants round about you—though the two Collegians have not been dutiful enough to send me a journal of their journey—nor an account of their arrival at their Paternal Mansion—a Residence at Washington must be to them a scene of dissapation—but as they are all in love with Books—I hope no temptation will allure them from their first love—
This is a region of perfect indifference insensibility if not stupidity—there is nothing hear to make us angry with one another in all New-England—we go on chiseling Rocks Weaving Cloth—making shoes—Building Houses and Churches of Granite—making Roads and Dam’s across the Sea—Eating fat Turkeys roast Beef—and Indian Pudding—and more than that, mince-Pies and Plumb pudding in abundance—besides Cranbery Tarts—
Tell the Boys if they do not write to me, I will sett up pretentions of the Authority over them, as a Grand father
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Caroline Amelia Smith De Windt, 1 January 1820
From: Adams, John
To: De Windt, Caroline Amelia Smith

my dear Caroline
Montezillo January 1st. 1820—

I wish you a happy New year, and as many new-years as your Nature can bear, in health Peace and Competence with your Children like Olive Plants about your table—but be sure to make them all Male and Female Children, Grand Children, and Great Grand Children work hard with their own hands, so as to be able to command their own livelihood by their Industry Economy and sagacity—
I am very glad to find, you are in correspondence with my friend Van der Kemp—His Correspondence will amuse you—and if you are not very learned, will instruct you—But even he does not know every thing He was Ignorant till a few days ago, that Inoculation for the Small Pox, was first introduced into the British Empire in the Town of Boston—by this time he knows that Dr. Zabdiel Boyleston a younger Brother of my Grand-Father Peter Boyleston of Brookline—Inoculated his own Children in 1720—one hundred years ago—and after that inoculated his negrows, at their express desire, and carried his own family safely through the distemper—His success in his own house encouraged others in his Neighbourhood to run the risk—He Inoculated all who would submit to the operation—The fame of his success in the Town of Boston spread to England, and produced an Invitation to him to Embark for that Country to Inoculate the Royal Family—He did Embark, but before his arrival the Royal Children had acquired Courage enough to trust their own Surgeon—
My love to Mr De Wint—all your Children—and to my Venerable friend your Mother,—and all the Family—Our Collegians are gone to Washington—We have news of their Arrival—they must necessarily spend a Winter of Dissapation, but they are all so smitten with the Charms of Literature—that I hope they will continue faithful and true—We are all in good Health here eighteen in Number—
I am as ever your affectionate— / Grand Father—

P.S. Since I have written the above, I have picked up a good Story—Two Noble Men in the Neighbouring Counties—one had a Son—and the other a Daughter—the Son fell in love with the Daughter and Solicited her fathers consent that he should pay his addresses to her—in answer her Father asked, how will you maintain her—He answered according to her Rank! Rank what rank have you, or has she—answer the rank of her Father—what have Children to do with the Rank or fortunes of their Parents—Rank and fortune in reversion are neither rank nor fortune—Have you any Profession occupation, Trade Office or employment by which you can get your own living—No my Lord—I have none—then you shall never have my Daughter—I will never give my daughter to any one who cannot maintain himself and her too—Very well my Lord, have Patience with me—I will endeavour to show your Lordship that I can maintain myself and your Daughter—A Basket maker in the Neighbourhood—was making great Profits by the Manufacture of Curious Baskets which he sold for their elegance and taste for a very great price—To this Man the young Lord went, and gave him sufficient reward to teach him the Art—in which he made so great proficiency that in one Year he became a more exquisite work man than his Master—or his Appretice’s or any of his Journeymen—he immediately carried some of his own handy work to the Old Noble Man—here my Lord—I am now an Independent Man—with these productions—with my own hand I can maintain myself and your Daughter—in a manner that will make us both perfectly happy—without any aid from either of our Parents—then if you have, or can obtain her affections she shall be yours—
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to John Adams, 2 January 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John

My dear Namesake
Montezillo January 2d. 1820

Your letter of the 27th. of December has given me great pleasure—though I shuddered at the idea of the dreadful night you discribed—The Season of the Year concealed the beauties of the Country through which you pass traveled and must have taken away most of the pleasures—But you must have been amply repaied by the joys of meeting your Parents, and Brother, and other friends—A residence in Washington of Six or Seven Weeks during a Cession of Congress, and the Supreme Court,—is a prize, a great prize, a rich prize in your hands and I hope you will lay it out in the purchase of Wisdom—when I was a Boy at the Latin school in Ancient Braintree—Joseph Cleverly Master—I did not love my Books half so well as my fowling-piece—my paddles, my Skates or my Kite—I frequently beged my Father to let me lay aside Latin and Greek—and work upon his Farm—my Father of whom I always love to speak had set his heart upon giving me a Liberal education—and would not hearken to my importunities—and when I urged him too obstinately he never failed to come out upon me, with “when a fool has a prize in his hands—he has no heart to improve it”—This John was a knock-down Argument and I dared never dared to say any more for that time—This however finally made some impression on me—and I was ashamed to be sett down for a fool without a Struggle—I accordingly persuaded my Father to change my Master and immediately indeavoured to give some serious attention to my Books—You my dear John I know can never be called or thought a fool, and I doubt not will find a heart to improve the prize in your hand—
I should admire the ship on your Seal—if I thought your Constitution sufficiently Robust to go through the rough Voyages and rude encounters to which the Independence is devoted—you have now an opportunity now to see collected into a focus the Literature science—Political Wisdom and Public Virtue of this great Country—Look upon it I beseech you with reverence and awe—by such conduct you will contribute greatly to the dying Comfort of / your Aged Grand-father—

John AdamsP.S. I have a story of a Basket Maker to tell you in some future letter—my love to George and Charles—


Title: From John Adams to William Smith Shaw, 3 January 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Shaw, William Smith

dear Sir
Montezillo January 3d. 1820

In presenting the Compliments of the Season I wish you a happy New Year—as many as human Nature can well bear—the year comes in very bright—but very cold—and I hope it will be bright and wholesom to the end—
The little Tract you mentioned entitled thoughts on Government in a letter from a Gentlemen to his friend—has been printed in Niles’s Register—Since you were here I have found the Original Edition by Dunlap—among my old Scraps—which I will show you, when you come to see me—which I hope will be soon.—
Congress is not yet gathered into Life nor acquired heat enough to emit Electric Sparks—but I hope expect before long—to hear loud Claps and harsh chrashes of thunder—I hope the bolts, will strike only in desolate places—
I mourn over my friend Bently—with great sincerity—he was rather rara avis in terra nigroque simillima cygno—An Emmence Magazine of learning a prodegee of industry and a Model of Benevolence and philanthropy—his Stile was not perfectly polished, nor his thoughts perfectly digested at all times—indeed he did and wrote and thought two much—to revise and correct and burnish any-thing—The Essex Register will never find such another Editor and I shall loose the only newspaper I pretended to read—It is reported that Everet is to preach the funeral Sermon—and if it were possible—I would go to hear it
my love to the family—with compliments of the Season / fare well—
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 4 January 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					4-15 Jan. 1820

				4th. Jany The weather still severely cold—My Sons are gone to the House of Representatives to hear the Debates—Your Letter has just been put into my hands and I observe all you say upon the subject of Missouri. She has unfortunately a very intemperate Delegate who is not calculated to soften the impending storm. Much alarm evidently exists as to the consequences of this Question and Congress are endeavouring to evade it by a variety of means and trying to produce something which shall by exciting the passions and prejudices of the people to draw off their attention from this difficult business which combines all the great interests of the Union and either way is dangerous to the Southern Dominion—It is said that if the Bill should pass with the restriction that the P– would not sign it as he feels bound by the Louisiana Treaty And the restriction is here declared altogether unconstitutional by the Southern interest—Some say the purchase of Louisiana unconstitutional—How will matters stand in this case? In the Evening my company assembled as usual and we had a full (seemingly a very essential thing) and pleasant party with very little music—5 Several morning visits among which Mrs:  & Miss Dickinson very charming women from the State of New York—Dined at the Presidents the dinner very stiff and the President unusually silent—In the Evening a large Ball at Mr: Crawford’s 450 invitations out—The party very social and pleasant—Some conversation with Mr: Crawford—The night very cold—6 Morning visits as usual—at a party at Mr: Kerrs in the evening where I had some conversation with Mr: Meigs of New York concerning the incorporation of our Orphan Asylum society which he is to manage for us in Congress. A new ettiquette is established no gentleman is to be allowed to talk longer than six minutes with any Lady—George and John were  much amused—There never was so much beauty in Washington as this Winter—7 Went out to pay morning visits and Mrs: & Miss Dickinson the Vice President was very chatty and pleasant—Mrs: & Mr: Smith came and passed the evening with us—The most difficult thing I find to do is to be exact in regard to titles which has become a perfect torment—Any omission is immediately resented and I often feel very awkward and foolish for not being aware of the rank of my visitors—George is quite unwell—8 The weather wet and rainy—Mr: A– went with the Viscount Quabec to announce the Death of the Dutchess of Brunswick the Sister of the King of Holland to the President in form—In the evening we went to the French Minister’s where we met a small party—We returned early and my neice accompanied me with all the boys—Congress is very surly and no one knows what is the reason of their ill humour—On Monday the Missouri question comes on tho’ Col Trimble intimated it was likely to be postponed Much is expected on this subject and as passions and interest are the spurs we must anticipate a long and sharp debate which may be productive of very disagreeable personal consequences to some of the Members9 Went to the Capitol and heard a young man by the name of Sims Henry of New Jersey who gave us an uncommon fine Sermon after which I called on Mrs: & the Miss Thompson’s Mrs: Thompson was too much indisposed to see me also went to ask Mrs: Forsythe to take Tea with me tommorrow10 The day sat in with a heavy Snow Storm—which lasted with great violence and I almost gave up the idea of seeing the friends I expected but to my astonishment and great satisfaction they came at about seven oclock and we passed a very sociable evening had some good music and singing and some admirable buffoonery from Dr Thornton—Mrs Smith was quite sick and disappointed me11 The morning passed in receiving morning visits and the evening in receiving my weekly party Which was not so full as usual tho’ pretty well attended—and on the whole agreeable paid a visit to Mrs: Frye and intended to pay several others but my Horses began their old tricks and I returned home Oh! these visits they have made me sick many times and I really sometimes think they will make me crazy—12 Very busy all day making a Cap to go to the Drawing Room but after having completed it found it was so cold that I concluded upon wearing a warmer dress—The Drawing Room was full tho’ not crowded and we had altogether a pleasant evening—Mrs: Monroe as usual looked be13 Preparing all the morning for a dinner—at 5 oclock our company met and out of 21 invitations we had but one excuse The party consisted of Mr: Crawford Govr Tichenor Mr: Noble Mr: Logan Mr: Pleasants Mr: Stokes of the Senate with Mr: Dickinson Mr: Meigs Mr: Woodbridge Mr: Brush Mr: Cuthbert Mr: Newton Mr: Hendricks Mr: Crowell Mr: Hill & Mr: McLean Mr: Lauman of the Senate Mr: Meigs of the Land Office & Mr: Thompson the Son of the Secretary of the Navy—This was one of our social dinners at which everyone seemed mutually inclined to please and to be pleased—Gov Tichenor of Vermont expressed a great desire to see you once more and said many handsome things concerning his former acquaintance with you which was in 96 when you were Vice President He is a charming cheerful old Gentleman and was the life of our Table They soon left us after dinner 14 A quiet day paying about 7 morning visits; in the evening the children took a Lesson of Drawing and afterwards played a game of whist—15 Went to pay a visit at Com Porters to see Mrs: Evans the Lady of Captain Evans who had taken offence at the accidental omission of her name in a note of invitation which I trust I repaired—My life is made so miserably uncomfortable and I am so thouroughly unfit for so exalted a situation that I think the wisest thing I can do is to retire to some quiet place where I may at least spend my life in peace—In the evening went to Mrs: De Neuvilles with my two boys a pleasant party—Saw John Randolph Apropos did he ever write to you for Letters of recommendation for any friend of his? You will excuse the liberty I take in asking this question as I rely on your indulgence


Title: From John Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 12 January 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Charles Francis

My dear Grand-Son—
Montezillo January 12th. 1820

I am much pleased with your frankness in relating the manners and customs of your School—talking playing and whistling are amusements not fit to be indulged or tolerated in the scene of Education for Youth—and you bear an honorable testimony in favour of your excellent School in Boston—I hope your Parents will bring you with them next Summer—and place you again at Mr Goulds most excellent Academy—not only for the sake of your accommodation and instruction—but that I may have the pleasure of seeing you from Monday to Saturday to Monday as heretofore—Your Cousins Abigail—Elizabeth and Thomas—are deeply engaged in the Study of French, under their Father who is a very Capable Preceptor—Nevertheless your presence with them once a week would be a very powerful excitement and assistance in the reading writing and speaking that most useful and beautiful Language—
Your friends are all very well here—Miss Welsh is with us for a few days—and is as active inquisitive and Sagacious as ever—Winter is setting in upon us with great Solemnity—we have had three or four little flights of Snow which soon disappeard—but now the second snow Storm is blowing with considerable violence—the banks are numerous and deep—the roads are so obstructed as to render travelling very difficult on wheels and runners—and even on horse back—or on foot—
Mr Everet has commenced a very splendid career in the Literary and Theological roads—we hear little else but of his Sermons and writings—and Dr Bentleys Will—Mr Ticknor of whom great things are expected—has not yet opened upon the World in so much splendour—a foundation is laying in Harvard College I hope for a structure of Literature and science which may take away the reproach of our Country—the advantages you young gentlemen have who are just peeping into the world are enough to excite the envy of a Man of most a hundred years of Age—indeed I wonder how the Men of former generations have crept along so well as they have—Let not these precious means and opportunities be lost for want of emulation energy and activity—The responsibility of the Youth of the present day is very great to themselves, their families, their Country, their Species, and their Maker—Take heed to thyself—so wishes / and enjoins your affectionate Grand-Father
J Adams


Title: From John Adams to George Washington Adams, 12 January 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, George Washington

My dear Grandson.
January 12th. 1820

I thank you for your letter of new-years-day, and congratulate you on your arrival in the great City that is to be where you will have an opportunity of seeing the great world & making many observations & reflections upon it: you may there see a variety of sentiments on government: despotism to the depths of sansculotism, & religious opinions; from the sublimities of Catholics to the profundities of Swedenborgians—How kindly has providence provided for our comforts in this world by furnishing us with such an ample portion of that self-love which is the cordial drop of life in all ages & conditions—, it pleases every purchaser of a lottery ticket with the sweet hope of drawing the first prize, it pleases the young priests with hopes of being arch-Bishops and Cardinals and it pleases every young American with the hopes of being President of the United States, every ensign with hopes of being a General, & every midshipman with hopes to be an Admiral. The same principle, the same active agent, operates in religion; it makes all men happy in their own religion, whatever it may be—the Mahometan is confident that he shall go to paradise,—the Hindoo to Brahma,—the Hebrew to Abrahams bosom,—the Calvinist is sure that he is one of the elect,—the churchman, has a sure and certain hope of a resurrection to life eternal: the North american Indian expects to go to a level country without Swamps or mountains—where grand & beautiful rivers meander thro’ vast prairies & lofty forests abounding with deer elk & buffaloe, indian corn—kidney beans, pumpions & squashes, growing spontaneously—; & who can say that this is not all as it should be—but I wish that all had a little more charity for those who differ from them—you George I hope will have charity for all, and treat all, with great civility, candour, & respect; you must be very prudent & cautious, lest you hurt the feelings of any of those people, or alarm their jealousy or pique their self love. So says your affectionate grandfather.
John Adams


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

					16-21 Jan. 1820

				Jany 16 1820 Was disappointed of going to church in consequence of their having prepared the heavy Carriage which I was afraid to go out in. The boys, however went and the Horses behaved so well that I took courage after they returned to go and make two visits of ceremony—The evening passed at home—17 Very busy all day preparing for my Ball tomorrow, taking down bedsteads, and furniture of all descriptions, and oversetting all my poor husbands papers—I cannot therefore pretend that the day was passed quietly—However we were all pleased at having accomplished this great labour and went to bed full of expectation and anticipation of what the next day was to produce, some auguring nothing but delight others more experienced and less sanguine, foreseeing nothing but toil and disappointment—Several visits as usual—18 We were so busy all the morning, as to be almost exhausted by the time our company arrived, which they began to do at about seven o’clock.—During the first hour there were only four Ladies, and A– who is apt to take alarm, began to be anxious and uneasy—The rooms were nearly full of gentlemen nearly all of whom were Members of Congress 80 Members of the House and 14 Senators when the Ladies began to assemble so fast I could scarcly have time to make my salutations; and some even left the House without coming into the rooms at all—We had between three and four hundred and the party was more than commonly animated—I could give them no  supper and substituted as well as I could all sorts of refreshments and my guests were apparently satisfied and amused—but was best of all was that Mr. A– was so pleased with my success that he joined in a reel with myself and the boys and you would have laughed heartily to have seen the astonishment of my people, and the musicians who were the only witnesses of our sport—We retired to bed much fatigued and I not much pleased at the prospect before me of the cleaning and scrubbing which must take place ere we could resume with any comfort our usual occupation—The uncomplaining good humour with which your Son submits to these inconveniences; excites no small portion of my gratitude—My Boys all assisted me but John did the honours of my Ball with a grace all his own and which won all hearts; he proved my sheet anchor—They all danced and acquitted themselves very well Of the Secretaries our party was honoured only by the presence of the Secretary of the Navy and his family who have recently arrived—Mr Crawford after having received my invitation having chosen to give a dinner on and asked Mr A– to dine with him I was under the necessity of urging him to decline as I could not undertake to receive so large and divided a company alone.—The Music was excellent—19 As usual I paid the price of a violent head ache and pain in my limbs in consequence of my exertions—I therefore staid quietly at home all day and had the comfort of seeing every thing returned to its pristine state before dinner; and my husband once more in possession of his apartment surrounded by his multiplicity of papers but freed from the accumulation of dust and dirt which had been gathered during the Winter—Went to bed early as every one was anxious for a good nights repose after their toils the greater part of which fell upon John who amiably assisted in restoring every thing to its proper place—20 Remained at home all day—George went to the Senate and heard the debate on the Missouri question—He was much pleased by a speech of Mr Burrill of Rhode Island and one of Mr Macon of North Carolina—They became warm and something was suggested concerning a division of the Union which produced considerable alarm. Evening at which Mr Smith spent with us—Mr A– dined at Com Decaturs—We hear of nothing but Mr Pinkney, he has threatened to speak in the Senate for many days and has excited a sensation even greater than could possibly be imagined—The Senate Chamber into which they now admit Ladies on the floor has been occupied early every day, and his fame has attracted the attention of a part of the fair Sex who if the tongue of scandal says true out of gratitude must naturally be desirous of affording their admiration and bestowing it in as public a manner as possible on one who is so ready to distinguish them—However as the grave fathers of the Senate are supposed to be old and steady enough to set a good example to the lower house, it has been thought by some the public rather indecorous and the respectable Ladies of Washington can now only get admittance through the medium of a Senator—As however Ladies of a very public character did get in and take seats on either hand of the Vice President he has been subjected to some jests for having been thus supported—21 Went quite early to the Capitol to hear Mr Pinkney accompanied by Mr Forbes and get a seat in the Hall through the medium of Mr. Mellen—The room was so thronged with Ladies the Senators could scarcely keep their proper Seats and the coup d’oeil was beautiful it was much too theatrical for so august and grave a body as the Senate of the United States—After having waited sometime in longing expectation he appeared in all the elegance of dress with his hair nicely curled “shedding odours round” gracefully addressed the President and glided gently into the most flowery splendid elegant and splendid compliment to the State of Massachusetts I ever heard, with the intention I suppose of giving a sop to Cerberus and gaining that by flattery which it was impossible to obtain by reason—The theme was copious or at least he made it so for there was neither figure trope or simile which act or nature could yield, and so heavy a tax was laid upon poor common sense that to those who have passed the age when imagination kindles and blazes at each electric spark it produced the effect of a fine epic poem which we take up occasionally with delight but which exhausts and fatigues if we attempt to peruse it as one reading—There is something unnatural in excessive splendour; which affects   very as the long days of Russia used to do where I absolutely used to pine for darkness from positive weariness at beholding too constantly the brilliant light of the garish Sun. Mr Pinkneys brilliant rhetorick as you perceive has made me prolix and diffuse and I am in danger of being as tiresomely  lenghty as was the fashion last winter last Winter on the  Seminole question—I have written this sheet to send you in con imagined mistake supposing it to have been  this not be the case and you have already received  to George and believe me with much respect your du


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 22 January 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Journal
					January 22-27, 1820

				Jany 22 The ettiquette question will soon be put down as the fathers of the Nation now decline all pretence to the right of first visits as Senators; but think they ought to receive it Strangers, making it thereby perfectly optional as it regards those who may be residents in the City to visit or not according to their inclination—And they are reduced to the necessity of denying the fact of the Committees having waited on Mr A—to call him to account for his Sins of omission—Sat at home all the morning and in the evening went to Mr de Neuvilles the boys anticipating a charming dance—but alas we found only a small party with rueful faces on account of its being the anniversary of poor Louis decapitation—Met there General Brown who was just arrived—Nothing heard of but the sublime eloquence of Mr Pinkney who is decidedly pronounced to be the first Orator in the United States—Some bad Music—Commodore  & Mrs. Rogers a little offended by the failure of their invitation to my Ball—but it is in vain to sigh and fret these accidents will happen take what pains I will to prevent it—Sent John Boyd to join the Columbus as a midshipman—23 Read prayers at home and in the evening went to take Tea with Mrs. Thornton quite sociably—The invitation was to meet Mr & Mrs Brown with whom it has been the fashion to pretend I was not on friendly terms. As he has a plantation which produces a revenue of about thirty thousand dollars a year he is of course a very great personage and every one who does not court himself and his Lady are looked upon as Goths and Vandals—I have been so silly but as I do not wish that any body should imagine there is any thing between us whatever I accepted the invitation and passed a very pleasant evening having a good deal of conversation with Mr Brown concerning Europe from whence he has recently returned and much more concerning my Brother with whom he is intimately acquainted and whose health he thinks would be much benefitted by a journey—He hinted to me that he had done a great deal for him and seemed to extort that from my gratitude which I was not willing to offer to the length of his purse. 24 Returned some visits in George Town, and went to see my Sisters who are all well—Passed the evening at Mrs. Smiths, quite sociably with the Boys and did not return home until eleven o’clock It is said that  a Lady of ill fame got into the Presidents House on new years day the Mistress of the English Charge d’Affaires I do not vouch for the truth of this—Mr Pinkney ended his Speech to day and it is said great was the fall thereof—Johnson Hellen has distinguished himself very much in a Speech made in George Town at a sort of Town meeting against the recession of the District of Columbia—he is only nineteen and likely to make a figure in the World more especially as his habits are all good and he is industrious— 25 My Sons went to the Senate and heard Mr. Otis with whom they were very much delighted—In the evening we had a small but pleasant party but I was so much at a loss to entertain my company that I sang and made George sing— 26 Genl Brown and staff were here and he introduced one of them by the name of John Adams Dix, from New Hampshire a very fine young man— 26 Went as far as the Navy Yard to return visits; the day was raw and cold—when I returned the Snow began to fall and ere night the ground was again completely covered—The Debate on the Missouri question has begun in the House with great asperity on both sides and the minds of either party appear to be in such a state of exasperation that I much fear it will only be productive of mischief in every point of view—Your Son requests me to beg of you as a particular favour to him should you be addressed on the subject (which he has no doubt you will be) to refrain from giving any opinion whatever as he does not think the time has arrived in which he can with propriety take a part in the business and it would be said when he does that you had influenced any measures he may think necessary to adopt hereafter; which would operate unfavorably. In the evening at the Drawing room which was thin tho fuller than might have been expected in consequence of the bad weather—had no opportunity of speaking to the President—Mr. Lanman a Senator from Connecticut was very kind to John and invited him to go and see him—


Title: From John Adams to Caroline Amelia Smith De Windt, 24 January 1820
From: Adams, John
To: De Windt, Caroline Amelia Smith

My dear Grandaughter
Montezillo Jan. 24. 1820

This year compleats a Century Since my Uncle Boylston introduced the practise of Inoculation into the English dominions; but what improvements have been made, Since 1720 partly by experience, but much more by the Accidental discovery of Dr Jenner? The history of this distemper is enough to humble human pride! enough to demontrate what ignorant Puppets We are! how we grope in the dark! and what empty Phantoms We chase! You are not Singular in your suspicions that you know but little. The longer I live, the more I read, the more patiently, I think and the more anxiously I inquire; the less I seem to know.
Why Should the “Vaccine” have been concealed from all Eternity and then instantaneously revealed? Why Should the material World have Slept in Non Entity from Eternity and then created or awakened into Existence?
Worm! Ask no Such questions! Do justly: Love mercy; Walk humbly; This is enough for You to know and to do. The World is a better one than You deserve; strive to make Your Self more worthy of it.
So questions and so answers, your affectionate / grandfather
John Adams


Title: From William Pinkney to John Quincy Adams, 27 January 1820
From: Pinkney, William
To: Adams, John Quincy,Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					27. Jany 1820.

				Mr Pinkney presents his Complements to Mr & Mrs Adams and will have the Honour to wait on them at Dinner on Thursday the 3d of February.—


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 27 January 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					27 Jan—6 Feb 1820

				27th. Jany Remained at home all the morning in the course of which twenty cards were left—At five oclock our dinner party began to assemble—we sat down 22 under the expectation of a formal & stiff kind of meal as the company were almost almost all strangers to us—but they were very animated and cheerful and before dinner was over you would have thought we had been acquainted many years—They left us early a very good custom which has been introduced by which much and many disagreeables are avoided—28 Went in the morning to see Mrs: Smith from whom I had received a very urgent note—I found her in great distress as William had again been arrested on the old ground, and had at last to free himself from difficulties which were constantly accumulating taken the benefit of the act—His uncle is rejoiced that he has at last brought himself to this as in the circumstances in which he is without a prospect of promotion it was utterly impossible for him to do any thing to extricate himself from the pressure of his debts—Mr: A—  and George went to dine at Mr. Crawfords and from thence to an Evening party at Col Freemans which I declined as I did not feel in spirits for company of any kind John and I staid at home with Charles and Mary who took their Drawing Lesson as usual—29 I felt in such wretched spirits all the morning I was absolutely good for nothing—Sat at home and read Halls Travels—Mr: A— at dinner said to me said I had better go to Mrs: De Neuvilles George John and myself accordingly attended and I should have passed a very pleasant evening had I not been teazed to death by mistakes and explanations about missing Notes of invitation and want of punctuality in returning visits, for which I am everlastingly reproached—I wish from my heart people would not give me a consequence I do not in the least desire to possess, and would not give suffer me to sink into my natural insignificance. but as long as my parties are fashionable and the Secretary gives good wine it is in vain to contend against this torment of pleasure As a Young Woman I detested society, and always looked upon it as a toil; as an old one it is becoming an insupportable burthen upon the footing on which it is set in this place—Mr: Holmes made a Speech in the House upon the Missouri Question and occupied the floor of the House two days it is said to very little purpose, as he has produced very lit no effect as it regards the question before them of any consequence; and expressed sentiments which neither party approve—How difficult it is to steer a middle course in such circumstances—Poor Massachusetts was very roughly treated by him, and his threats to Virginia through her were tremendous—Where passion is already so high would a prudent man endeavour to encrease jealousy, and natural hatred, by exaggerating danger and inspiring terror? Surely this is not wise and cannot be approved by the majority of his Constituents—He came to me several times in the course of the Evening, and complained of low spirits, repeatedly saying how much he envied me for possessing a flow of spirits which was the chief support of my frail existence I received many flattering messages in the course of the evening one from Senator Pinckney who sent me word he was gone to fetch his Wife who would make it a point to visit me as soon as she arrived, and one from Mrs: Madison inviting to see her and saying she intended to visit Washington next winter, and should take a corner at my parties—All this is very civil but what does it amount to; I fear I am growing cinical since I find  the most trifling occurrences are turned into political machinery Even my countenance was watched at the Senate during Mr: Pinckneys speech as I was afterwards informed by one of the gentlemen—If my husbands sentiments are to be tried and judged by such variations, the gentlemen will have hard work to  fix a standard to form their opinion upon—30. Read prayers at home the weather being very bad—The boys were to have dined with their Aunt Frye but found the weather too bad to walk so far—Staid at home all the evening—31 At home all day—In the Evening the boys went to a party at Mrs: Pleasantons with Mary—They expected to dance but in consequence of the Music disappointing them, they had a dull party—They left me at Mrs: Smiths on their way and returned with considerable ill humour, at least an hour earlier than I expected—1st: Feb. The day severely cold—went and paid several morning visits, at one of which I was pretty closely questioned about my Tuesday Evenings, especially to assertain if I was not liable to have improper persons at my house—As people come by invitation, and no one without an introduction by one of our acquaintance I can scarcely understand what this means—There is such an  attempt to introduce distinctions here & to clash our society it is to me perfectly sickening—I am the reputed author of it which is the most laughable part of it As my own family connections rank according to this new scale among the inadmissables—This is too preposterous for common sense!—And it is absolutely disgusting to me to hear of rabble and such stuff as we used to laugh at so much previous to the French Revolution under the appellation of the Cannaille—Returned home to dine with the boys Mr:— A— being engaged to dine with Mr: Calhoun—In the evening we had a small party on account of the severe cold and we made out tolerably with singing and dancing on the Carpet—2 The boys went to hear Mr:  Randolph but were quite disappointed; he is said to have fallen of prodigiously since he was in Congress formerly—George went from thence to dine with his Aunt Frye; and in the evening Mary, John and Charles went to a party at Mr: Ramsays, and I brought them home after taking Tea at my Sisters—Every thing appears to go on more smoothly than was anticipated—The Young folks were quite enchanted with their party—3 This day a party of 22 to dinner selected by Mr: A— that the boys might see the most striking members of Congress—Mr: Calhoun the Secretary Mr: Pinkney Mr: Burton Mr Foote Mr: Hemphill Col R M Johnson Genl Bloomfield Mr Mellen Mr Metcalf Mr Norvill Joe Joe Monroe Mr: Packer Mr: Roberts Mr: Jenkins Mr: Storrs Mr Taylor Mr: Vandye & Mr Warfield—Mr: R King & Mr: Livermore declined—I did not dine at Table there not being sufficient room for our company and wishing that my Sons might not  lose the opportunity offered to them—The gentlemen all went away gay to say no more5 Feb Went into George Town to make some purchases and to do some business for George and they left cards for the Heads of Departments to take leave—In the evening George John & myself took Tea at Mrs: Smiths and bade her farewell—6 This morning was passed in confusion and very disagreeable anticipations at the approaching seperation which cost me all the fortitude I possess to visit it without shrinking—George has become a very valuable companion for his father and I think is forming fast—He is subject to a depression of spirits and a nervous irritability  which makes me quite uneasy otherwise we have been much gratified by his general improvement—John is still the boy and would enjoy himself more if he did not persevere in a principle altogether foolish of never doing any thing during the vacation—This often occasions weariness and the time always hangs heavy on his hands—We passed the evening at Mr: de Neuvilles at the request of them both & George appeared much pleased—John began to enjoy it just as the dancing finished and we were obliged to return home—You will have heard ere you receive this of the loss poor John sustained of his Trunk from behind the Mail—Poor fellow he left us much agitated and distressed and I feel very anxious about him he was so feverish—Yours respectfully

					L C A


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Harriet Welsh, 8 February 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Welsh, Harriet

					My Dear Harriet
					Washington 8th Feby 1820

				The boys left us on Sunday morning intending to arrive at your house on Saturday Evening when to my astonishment and terror John walked into the room yesterday evening very feverish and looking half wild with agition and fatigue and announced that his Trunk had been cut off from the Mail Stage and he had lost all the Clothes he had in the world—The reception his father gave him  was not such as to enliven the poor fellows spirits and he has again set forward with two old ragged Shirts past service which was all I could find to give him during the few hours that he staid—Mr A. requests you will have the goodness to purchase a piece of Linen for him and have it made up as soon as possible and when he arrives I will thank you to fit him out anew with every article necessary to make him comfortable. He will not want any more winter stockings but Cotton he must have for the Summer—I got some very cheap things at Babcocks such as pocket handkerchiefs Cravats &c I know you will kindly take this charge on you as it would occasion much delay to send to Quincy to beg one of them to do this business and you will send the accounts to Mr Adams stating that Mr. A—requested you so to do.My Sons have been very much pleased with their visit. they quitted us with more regret than I ever remember to have observed as they grow older their father takes more notice of them and talks more freely to them and this they set the higher value on from having been but little used to it—They however return to their studies with great cheerfulness and I hope will renew them with as much ardor as they have hitherto displayed—Spring appears to be coming on us very early to repay us for the unusual severity of our Winter and if it extends far to the North I fear our travellers will meet with dreadful roads.Present me kindly to your father & Mother and believe me—with great regard yours

					L. C. A—


Title: From John Peter De Windt to John Quincy Adams, 10 February 1820
From: De Windt, John Peter
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Dear Sir,
					Fishkill Landing February. 10th. 1820

				The subscriber to the inclosed paper has long been a friend to my family, and the circumstances therein related, and which are all to my certain knowledge correct, entitle him to the favorable consideration he solicits in behalf of his son. His wish is that the Danish minister should be consulted on the subject, and the idea that the communication being made by the American Secretary of State would attach a greater consequense to the proposition and most probably promote the fulfilment of his hopes, is sanctioned by the advice of respectable persons in this neighbourhood, well acquainted with his particular situation and character.Mr. Knevels can produce certificates of the ability of his son from the most eminent practioners in the City of New York, and his pecuniary embarresments at present, and large family, having six sons, preclude the possibility of a compliance with the ordinance of the King.The young man is a native of the Island of St: Johns; has been married but a few months, and must depend solely upon the exercise of his profession for a livelihood. It may operate to his injury should the Danish Government learn that his fathers desire is to transfer his property in St: Johns to this Cuntry; having become a citizen of the United States; which circumstance he thinks the Government here in this instance should be acquainted with.Should this proceeding appear to you improper and any other more expedient suggest itself to your mind, I beg the favor of you to communicate it to me.I am with respect Dear Sir your Obedient humble servant

					John Peter de Wint


Title: From John Adams to Caroline Amelia Smith De Windt, 11 February 1820
From: Adams, John
To: De Windt, Caroline Amelia Smith

my dear Granddughter
Montezillo Febuary 11th. 1820

I have been informed that you have read Mr Locks Essays on the human Understanding it would also give me great pleasure to hear that you have read his Essay on the Conduct of the Understanding— There is a little Aeriel World within us—the reign of Intelligence, of sensibility, of Activity, as well worthy of investigation, as the great World without us—of Heaven Earth and Seas.—and nothing in my opinion, can qualify a Lady better for the Education of her Children, than some acquaintance with the great writers who have spent their lives in the Contemplation of it—I therefore advice you to read Dugald Stuarts great Work on the Elements of the Philosophy of the human Mind—You will there see the Sentiments of Descartes Malebranch Locke Berckeley Reid Hume Condillac D’alembert Turgot—and many others—with judicious Commentarys on them all—and Luminous Corrections of a Multitude of their errours—Your little witlings may call this a Study of Metaphysicks if they please—but that it is, a pursuit of Wisdom and Virtue, I am sure—
The Animule Parvule of Adrian—“The Vital Spark of heav’nly flame of Pope—is as well worth our Study as the moon Sun in the Heavens I hope Mr De Wint has this Work in his Library—if he has not I beg him to place it there as soon as possible—for I wish it to go down to your Posterity from their Ancestors—The Intellectual Powers, and the Active Powers of the Human Mind, are as inconsistent with every property that we know of the Matter, as light is inconsistent with darkness, or Life with Death—
There is as much Snow upon the Ground at this moment as I ever knew, and more is now falling, and to what length the Storm, will be extended, and with what violence it may terminate we know not—But this does not excite so much apprehension, as the debacle, which may soon ensue—Our Collegians we expected would arrive to-morrow from Washington—will find it difficult to get here—for a Week to come—They have had an opportunity to see much of the World,—and I hope have had sense enough, to preserve themselves from the Vanities—Fopperies and frollies of it
Being theirs—and your affectionate / Grandfather
John Adams


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to George Washington Adams, 12 February 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, George Washington

					My Dear George
					Washington 12 Feby. 1820

				As I presume you will have accomplished your journey ere this epistle arrives, and that you will have enjoyed the amicable greetings of your friends, and have in some measure fallen into your old habits, I may venture without the apprehension of recalling too tender ideas, to relate some of the circumstances which have occurred since you left us. Poor Colvert has lost one of his Children since his Son George went away, and the family are plunged in grief—On Tuesday we had our usual company—The party consisted chiefly of young Ladies; your favorite Louisa looked as pretty as ever, and Miss Davis was most gracious and sung sweetly—They danced and appeared to amuse themselves very much—Yesterday I went to pass the evening at Mrs. Calhoun’s a very pleasant party, where I met your two beauties, and Johns two   favorites the Miss Randalls; the youngest of whom looked handsomer than I ever saw her—She was much disappointed at not dancing, not being able to get a partner—My Horse is so lame I cannot go out this day, though I promised last evening to go to Madame de Neuvilles—Your Aunts are both well, and Mr Smith is released from durance vile, tho’ much out of spirits—I most sincerely wish something could be done for him, but the torrent seems to swell against us, and it is impossible to resist it—Mr King spoke yesterday on the everlasting question, and has produced a violent effect—Our Southern Bretheren are furious—and some pretend he is a man without talents—His talents are I believe of a description too superior to represent the poor persecuted half of our species, and it is not wonderful that the holders of this poor shackled race, should not know how to appreciate abilities of so superior a cast—This will again call forth the great Orator, who is once more to dazzle our senses by his gaudy Splendor, but who is not likely I think to convince our reason, any more than he did on our first experience—The importance of this question seems to be hourly growing and it is likely to be debated a fortnight longer at the least—After which there are several quetions of much difficulty, and tho’ last not least the spanish affairs, which have hitherto been kept quite in the back ground, where you may expect to here your father assailed from all quarters— The Drawing Room on Wednesday was very brilliant and crowded—I had some conversation with the President and as usual a Consul intervened to make me laugh, and to discompose a wiser person, who however stood his ground with more fortitude than during the first attack, which so diverted your affectionate Mother

					L. C. A.


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 18 February 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					18-29 Feb. 1820

				18 Feb Passed the day quietly at home excepting returning a few morning visits19 Mr A. dined at Mr Lowndes’s and I called for Mr & Mrs: Smith and Mr: A. to accompany me to the French Ministers. Mr S declined going—We found a small company assembled and the party was tolerably agreeable—I was engaged at a Ball at Mrs: Gales’s and intended to go from Mrs: de Neuvilles quite early but Mr A. played Chess and I could not get away until ten oclock—We found them dancing at Mrs: Gales’s and met the Speaker who joked me about being seen at so many places in the course of one evening—I told him he must kept me in countenance or he could not have traced my steps so exactly—Mr: A. danced a Country Dance which has occasioned as much talk as Missouri—Returned home very much fatigued—20 Went to Church and heard a Young Man by the name of Russell who literally roared forth his Sermon with Stentorian Lungs It was a jumble of showy matter intended to be elegant and even sublime but failed most terribly in its effect upon the audience—Bombast is at all times insupportable to me but in the pulpit it is odious as it casts a shade of ridicule upon things the most sacred—The remainder of the day at home21 Had a small party at dinner Mr: D. P. Cook Mr: Hopkinson Mr: Hutchinson Mr: Forbes and Mr: Smith two or three disappointed us—It      was ten oclock before Mr: Cook left us—Mr: A. was a little severe upon Mr Hopkinson concerning the Missouri business and told him he had helped to kindle a flame which would not easily be extinguished; of which Mr: H appeared to be altogether unaware as to the consequences or the result22 Went to the Birth night Ball which was handsome tho’ not crowded—The President his Lady & daughter attended—There were not more  than three or four Members of Congress there which occasioned considerable astonishment—All the Corps Diplomatique were there in grand Costume and the Supper was very handsome—The President and family went away before Supper—23 Caught a violent cold and was ill as to be obliged to remain in bed all day—Did not go to the Drawing Room of course—24 At a large party at Col Tayloe’s the handsomest Ball I have been at this Winter—It was very crowded but I was too ill to take any pleasure in it—Had some conversation with Mrs: Thompson who told me Miss Monroe was to be Married in a fortnight to Mr: Gouveneur had just arrived and she had staid at home—Mr: Thompson has taken a house for which he is to pay 850 Dollars rent on a leave of five Years They are a very pleasant family and a great acquisition to our society Mrs: Dickinson not there having heard of the death of a distant Relation—Met there Gov Sprigg of Maryland25 Went out and made a number of visits Returned to dine and then went to a party at Mr W Lees This is  a Man of so notorious a character that it is almost inconceivable how he keeps his standing in Society—He is involved in debts to a very large amounts and there is hardly a Gentleman of his acquaintance (whom he has not,) drawn in more or less to assist him in his extravagance—There is at this very time an execution on a part of his property and this is the moment chosen to open his house to the gay throng—I went with a sort of conviction that such a character should not be countenanced but it is not for me to turn Censor and I pity his family more especially his two lovely daughters who are amiable well educated and highly accomplished—The question was yesterday taken in the restriction in Committee The Votes in favour of restriction 101 against 84—This majority is a matter of general astonishment—26 Was quite unwell and remained at home all the morning Mrs Tucker a Lady from Virginia Wife of one of the Members called on me—She told me she had come to pay me a visit tho’ she did not owe it  But she had liked my countenance and manners and was determined to be acquainted with me, spite of ettiquette—I of course told her how much I was flattered by her politeness and that I hoped our acquaintance would be lasting—She is a pleasant unaffected Woman whom I am much pleased with—Mr: A. brought Mr: D. P. Cook to dine with us—He is  a Young Man of very promising talents in Congress for the first time from Illinois—We had much conversation concerning Mr: Randolph, who had again been speaking for hours in the course of the morning on the everlasting question—Poor Man he has so entirely sunk in the public estimation, that he is by many thought to be partially insane; and a mere wreck of what once was great in intellectual power—There is a sort of painful consciousness about him of this fact, which excite compassion, and it is impossible for a feeling and reflective mind to witness such a debasement, without being grieved at the awful changes which a few short years produce in this lordly creature man, and to acquire the conviction of our extreme weakness and frailty—These are the great Lessons to teach us humility and to show us how little cause there is for our vanity and pride in this life—he barely exists upon the recollection of his former greatness and is dying at the loss of it—a perfect hypocondriac at one moment revelling in the fairy dreams of gratified ambition, the next sunk into gloomy despair and sending for his friends to close his eyes—Thus are changes he perpetually exhibits this Winter  & tho’ I never had any acquaintance with him and seldom see him I cannot view this once powerful man brought so low without a sentiment of heartfelt pity even tho’ this power was exerted against those I love & reverence Such a fate is surely dreadful! He was much affected at being called to order very harshly by the Speaker and even shed tears—Mr Cook staid with us until ten oclock—We can form no idea of what time Congress will adjourn—27 Went to the House of Representatives and heard Mr: Rice again for whom they are about to build a new Church here—His manner is pompous his language Vulgar and his ideas pretty generally poor with much of the affectation of would be thought Orator—I fear I am very difficult and hard to please, but true Religion appears to me to be in itself so simple so clear and so striking that the tawdry dress in which its precepts are sometimes taught to the public by men who have mistaken their genius, almost always mortifies me as it  casts a shade of ridicule on things in themselves the most sacred—Its simplicity is on my mind at greatest beauty for its simplicity consists in its superior excellence—It was made for the sole advantage of the great Mass of Mankind and the Mass of mankind cannot understand it if this simplicity is lost for to them it is no longer comprehensible Plain truths will speak for themselves they require not the aids of art—And Vulgar embellishment of things divine, is altogether so grossly inconsistent that it is Religion in Caricature Past the evening  at Mrs: Decaturs with a small party where I met Mrs Hay with whom I had much conversation There are some Women who seem to found their own excellence entirely upon the errors and failings of others and therefore take a sort of unnatural delight t in rannking the histories of private families with a view to spread their scandalous history abroad with a desire to shine as it were by this borrowed but unholy—Even from my earliest years I remember to have been too proud to think that the faults of others could excuse my own. So far from it that I have always considered them as examples set before me as a safeguard from committing what appeared to me odious in them and human nature is so frail I think we ought where it is possible to be lenient to one another in all cases where it is possible—My Poor Father used to tell me when I was a Girl that I should defeat my own happiness in this World in consequence of my anxiety to trace even the commonest actions to their motives—This I believe having used one in some measure as it has taught me to measure Men & things by a very circumscribed rule and sometimes to judge them unjustly—Such as I am my character is before the World and from it I expect no mercy—My only shield is a pure conscience and that shield is a brazen one—Poor Mrs Bagot who was so popular here has left a reputation so tatered and torn to very shreds that it is wonderful what pains must have been taken to collect the morsels so as to form any thing of them Is it because she was beautiful and accomplished and that few equal her? Is it from that natural envy of unwillingly acknowledged superiority that this insatiable craving to destroy proceeds I do undertake to vindicate her because I am not acquainted sufficiently with her family to enable me so to do—But her conduct during her residence in this Country was such as to entitle her to the greatest respect and the breath of Slander dared not attack her added to which in England the supposed Scene of her follies where characters so prominent cannot escape the lash I never heard a whisper against her—If I cannot vindicate her I am not bound to believe all that I hear and I will hope that the whole is a fabrication and wish that I may still be allowed to admire what appeared so excellent without seeking to do more—My burning Cheek must sometimes lead people to suspect me of guilt—For t on these subjects I am alas too sensitive as they have been made to reach my heart which has suffered almost to bursting—but though it is vulnerable to the attacks of the cruelly unfeeling I can yet trust in heaven to support me through my trial and to give me strength and spirit to support myself in the path  which will transplant me to a better World—There  are bitter poisoned Shafts aimed by a pretended friendly hand but my Cup is full & I must drink it to the very dregs.—28 Went out to return morning Visits and sat sometime with Mrs: Frye & Mrs: Smith—Returned to dinner and remained at home the whole Evening having sent an excuse to Mrs: Gales as I am absolutely weary of parties—29 Received my own company as usual and had quite a crowded party—Only one Member of Congress came in consequence of the House of Representatives sitting very late and the debate was excessively violent—Charles went to hear it being as tired as I am of parties—1st March Another turbulent day in Congress but a very quiet one at home—As the opposing party are determined to bring them to a conclusion they leave no method outvied to put an end to the Debate, and as the Southern people have the most at stake they are in hopes of obtaining that from weariness which they cannot procure by fairer means—


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 20 February 1820
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

my dear Daughter.
Montezillo February 20th. 1820

yours to the 6th. is received, Our Sons of Harvard took leave of us this Morning for Cambridge in good health and Spirits—they arrived here the 16th. somewhat fatigued but very well—Their Uncle is gone to Boston with them to fit them out for Cambridge—
I have this Morning learnt the death of my Patriarchal friend William Ellery in his 94th. year—which is a greater age than human Nature can well bear, his picture is fresh in my imagination as I saw him 70 years ago, in Mr Trowbridges Pew in Cambridge Church—His Death leaves no signers of Independence above ground—But Jefferson Carrol and Flloyd—he was a Wit, a Humorist a droll a doggerel Poet, and what is worth a Million of such Characters, an honest and sensible Man—
your journal continues to be very entertaining and interesting to me—but I am afraid Mr A. is wrather too profuse in replenishing his Decanters—you must have great care not to Make the grave Legislatures unsteady—pray tell me who ever suggested that Mr Randolph had written to me to request recommendations of Instructions for his friends—it was the most improbable supposition in the World—and is utterly groundless—I want very much to know what he has said about me in the present Cession of Congress my Vanity is very much flattered by his Compliments to me—I should be loth to loose a single flower of his Rhetoric on my Subject—I take great pleasure in reading them—I do not find that he has done you the honour to dine with you—or to dance at your Ball, or appear at your Evenings—I am afraid you are not acquainted with him—
In this part of the World, nothing occours, but Morning, Noon, and Night—New Moons and full Moons, Spring Summer and Winter—
Mr and Mrs Boylston have been here this week expressing a thousand friendships for your family—and fretting about Harvard College—whose conduct does not flatter his Vanity, nor command his approbation—
Our friends in Boston are all well—particularly Mr Shaw who has been perfectly well ever since he changed his lodgings—which Mr Adams will be very glad to hear, I know—to whom I pray you to present my love—and my advice is, not to be too anxious about this Phantom of a World—nor too laborious in his Office—We expect soon to hear of a Congressional Caucus to nominate Monroe and Tompkins as in duty bound—
I depend upon a Visit from you this Summer—so have a care not to disappoint me—unless I should disappoint you—
I am your affectionate Father—
John Adams


Title: From François Adriaan Van der Kemp to Caroline Amelia Smith De Windt, 25 February 1820
From: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan
To: De Windt, Caroline Amelia Smith

My Dear and Respected Madam:
Oldenbarneveld, February 25th, 1820.

I must acknowledge that some time ago, I fostered the expectation of being gratified with a few lines from your hand, and although I was disappointed, yet could not persuade myself that I was forgotten.
Your cousin’s supposed departure, the concerns of a numerous family. Is it not strange that I was not struck with the possibility of sickness and trouble, which might have prevented it, or should these confine themselves to old age, while silently they undermine the tottering frame? At least, I did not think upon it, and yet it was the case, and I trust that fully recovered, and burried up in the capital, your frame shall be strengthened in the spring.
My contentment at Cedar Grove, my dear Caroline, was so perfect, my enjoyments so exquisite, that I do not only recollect these often, but gratify myself in renewing these communications to my family and friends. I was indeed happy during those three days, and was it in my power, I would strive to renew it; but at my age, in my situation, the prospect towards it is not bright, although even this is not a cause to mourn. We ought rather to be thankful for every share of bliss with which we are favoured.
You know me too well, to doubt for a single moment, if a copy of John Adams’s letter would gratify me; but who is that lady so accomplished as to captivate a nearly nonaganarian, and place him in such an ecstacy? But I do not envy the happiness of my so highly respected and beloved friend; his last days are his best days, and the blessings of his contemporaries, and posterity must be a delightful repast for his children and grandchildren.
Remember me with kindness to Mr. de Windt; this shall strengthen the impression, if any good one was made in my favour, by my visit, and obliterate the less favourable. Mr. Lawson’s courtesy cannot be forgotten by me, which received a higher value, from his modesty and frankness. He is the third British soldier with whom I became acquainted, and how should I be pleased might I see the trio under my humble roof. Should Lawson dare try the adventure he will be cordially received by an old brother soldier.
Believe me, my dear Caroline, that the remembrance of Mrs. Adams’s virtues and accomplishments, must be first erased from my heart, before seeing you pressing her steps, I can ever cease to be, dear and respected madam, your affectionate and obliged friend,

Francis Adrian Vanderkemp.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 28 February 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					My Dear John
					Washington 28h February 1820

				Your Letter distressed both your father and myself on account of the painful news it contained—but we were neither of us displeased with you as we were perfectly sensible of the motive both of duty and affection by which you were situated—We are still very uneasy at your Grandfathers situation altho I have had a letter from him since the receipt of yours which has induced us to hope that both his health and his spirits have ascended.The desease of your Uncle I have long thought incurable and I am very sorry that he is not removed to some distance from his father—but as it is we must hope for the best and trust that the poor old Gentleman may be enabled to support this bitter affliction with fortitude and not sink under the grief which preys on him so severely—I am rejoiced I did not know of your dangerous situation in crossing the North River otherwise I should have been in agony and condemned your rashness very sharply; as it is I am too happy to say any thing about it more than that I sincerely thank God for your escape I have seen your favorites several times and Henrietta becomes more lovely every time I see her—The Balls Concerts parties &cc are incessant and I am almost worn out—I have stolen to night and sent an excuse to Mrs. Gales where we went about a week since and where your father danced to the astonishment of all the world. This circumstance has given rise to a great buz of conversation and I think for a week almost hushed the Missouri Question out of Congress there it still occupies our great rulers and we are likely to be honoured with their company half the Summer which will add greatly to the heat and not much to the enjoyment of your affectionate Mother

					L C A—


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 2 March 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					2—7 March 1820

				2nd. March—Company at dinner consisting of Chief Justice Marshall Justice Washington Justice Todd Justice Story Justice Livingston Mr Story Mr: Ingersoll Mr: Hopkinson Mr: I Ogden Col Taylor General Brown, Col Morrison Gen. Winder & Mr: W Jones—The dinner was pleasant and the Bottle did not circulate too freely—The House was in Session when the Gentlemen arrived—Nothing heard of but Mr: Randolph—The company left us early—3 The famous question was decided this morning—while we were looking at Sully’s picture Mr: Nelson of Massachusetts came in and told us that the business was over—They having passed the Bill with a compromise—Mr: Randolph  moved to reconsider—The Speaker called him to order stating that they had not acted upon the order of the day which Mr: R. was obliged to submit to The Speaker took advantage of the circumstance to send the bills to the Senate and when the time came for Mr: R. to make his motion the business was completed and every thing terminated The honesty of our Congress has been displayed in such exalted colours this Winter that the next generation will certainly have cause to be proud of their fathers—Indeed it is a pity that we have not a Homer to chant in the most elevated strains the glory of such patriots—At least we shall be allowed to have attained to a high pitch of excellence when such knavish trickery can be practised in the face of an enlightened Nation and delight in the glory of tricks atchieved which would do honour to a gamester or a blackleg—These are    the rulers I am bound to admire—If this is the case, if this is the vaunted superiority of our Government & the purity of our elective Institutions I do not think we have much to be proud of & morality and religion are of little use if they cannot teach us to discern the difference between Right and wrong—If such is public virtue may my Sons have nothing to do with it—May they be far above polluting their names and fair fame in such a school and I had rather see them live in the most secluded state than thus sell their honour to favour the views of any man or any party tho’ that man were my husband—A place obtained in such a way would be an incessant scourge and I should be ashamed to fill it lest I read the contempt of the good in every speaking age—It is all barter and he who can afford to bid the highest is the instance of success—Enough however on this subject excepting that I understand the Clerk of the House was publickly reprimanded for doing the dirty work of his Master—I think very little of the picture there is nothing striking certainly nothing very novel in the design & some confusion in the colouring—Altogether it does not please me—I passed the evening quietly at home and Mr: Connell from Philadelphia spent it with us4 Remained at home until dinner time reading Ivanhoe the last new Novel of Scott in which I was so deeply immersed that I had scarcely time to dress for dinner at Mr: De Neuvilles at which however we arrived in good Season. We found a large company assembled and the dinner was served almost immediately—The party was pleasant but somehow or other I was not in very good spirits and it appeared to me that there was an odd sort of crowing tone among some of the Members of Congress which seemed to aim at my husband and some queer questions were asked me concerning his opinion on the Missouri business which I could not understand, all this might be however fancy, as I am ridiclously  sensative—I have never pretended to understand the question in all its bearings as a political one: in a moral & religious point of view and even as a gross political inconsistency with all our boasted  Institutions, liberty, and so forth, it is so palpable a stain that the veryest dunce can see it & understand it without the foreign aid of education or art—Returned home very weary tired of myself & all the World—I see too much and was certainly never intended by Nature to enjoy the Matchiavelism which is performing around me5 The day very damp and disagreeable staid at home The Romance of Ivanhoe is as well written as most of the things which have appeared by that Author & his characters are even more highly drawn—The period in which the scene is drawn admits of the highest colouring and the Author has according to custom painted with all the glowing tints for which his pencil is famed—His characters are as usual deeply contrasted and the dark shades admirably thrown in so as to heighten the general effect—I do not like to measure this Authors works one with another and they are so superior to every other work of the kind that with them no comparison can be made—The age was so full of darkness licence & superstition that he  had ample scope for horrors and he has used them almost with as much licence as the leading character of his work but one such pattern of excellence fortitude and real piety as the beautiful Jewess Rebecca is worth the whole book—Mr: Hopkinson spent the evening with us in social chat until near ten oclock. We had a surfeit of politicks—which as usual did not tend to heighten my sentiment of admiration for those who at present play the leading game here—6 Remained at home all day Johnson Hellen called to see me and sat with me two hours In the evening Mr: & Mrs: Smith came over to take Tea with me and we played a social game of whist Charles making up our fourth—Much talk but no news—7 Received my company as usual—The party was crowded altho’ the weather was very stormy & the party was pleasant & sociable it consisted almost entirely of Strangers—who appear to flock here in such abundance this Year that there is a perpetual & constant succession of them—Mrs: Hays Carriage detained here as usual & she was as obligingly tiresome as she can make herself when she chuses it—This Woman is made up of so many great & little qualities, is so full of agreeables & disagreeables, so accomplished & so ill bred, has so much sense & so little judgement she is so proud, & so mean I scarcely ever met such a compound—I have certainly not written this in haste as I have taken two years to decide upon her merit & even now I do not like to declare which side preponderates perhaps were I allowed time to see her less brilliantly  establised my judgment would be more lenient than it is inclined to be under the present circumstances—But of one striking trait I can pronounce and that is her love of scandal no reputation is safe in her hands and I never since the first moment of any acquaintance with I have never heard her speak well of any human being—We had about a dozen Members of Congress—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to George Washington Adams, 7 March 1820
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, George Washington

					My Dear George
					Washington 7th March 1820

				I am at length about to attempt to answer your Letter but am not quite sure whether I shall be successfull as it is late and impossible to guard against interruptions—In the first place the Missouri question is decided—How I leave you to judge as you will read the account in the publick papers—The juggling between the Clerks of the House and the Speaker places our National Councils in so elevated a point of view it is impossible if one drop of the blood of our Ancestors fills our veins for us not to delight in their descendants who to judge of their present Acts would have atchieved greater wonders than our great fathers in the Revolution—It is a pity the famous Ventriloquist Mr Charles had not been here at the time to have afforded his assistance tho’ I am not quite sure that he would have been a match for one of the performers—tho’ he was suspected of being in league with the devil—  Of the Poem I cannot yet say much as I have not yet read it through—but of Ivanhoe I can say much but not at present as my time is short as we are just setting down to dinner and afterwards I must prepare to receive my company— Johnson Hellers called yesterday to know if you had written to him and appeared very anxious to hear from you—You now how happy it would make  to have you cement the friendship which I hope was began here during your visit and I am sure he is so deserving of every kind sentiment that any neglect on your part would be unpardonable— Adieu my Son—I wish I were with you for every moment I become more & more disgust with the exalted situation of your affectionate Parent

					L. C A—