Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 30 March 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

My dear daughter
Quincy 30 March 1823

Your journal which has become a necessary of life to me has failed me for so a long a time but I must excuse it because it too severe a tax upon you & I hope & presume that George is too deeply absorbed in the studies of his profession to be able to spare time to copy your records. We are here in a newspaper flurry of flickerings for Govenor & they will associate your husband with Mr Otis as two friends like Theseus & Perithous—it is true that Mr A. has been & I stil believe still is the best friend to Mr O. he ever had but he never gave countenance to the eccentricities in politics of Mr. O. No, not for a moment. Cato some times stood a candidate for election to offices & failed; but Rome and not Cato was disgraced by the failure. Mr A. I presume will make no bargains and give no pledges. He will be free or nothing. He will be suaviter in modo—fortiter in re” a point in which his father too often failed His character stands at present on too high an elevation to be injured by the result of any election—though but a very small part of his merit is known to America or to any other people. I look forward to the month of August with some gleams of hope of seeing you all once more—but if I should be dissappointed the will of eternal wisdom be done. George might give me some accounts of the talents & eloquence of some of the great lawyers at the bar of the supreme court & the most conspicuous speakers in Congress, but I would not wish him to borrow too much time from his books—We have much snow on the ground & more threatened on this 30 March. We are all well and write in respects compliments & love with your affectionate father

J. A


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 2 April 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

Washington 2 April 1823

Your father was amused by your last Letter and glad to learn that you were pleased with any part of your studies and thinks that your distate of Mathematics may decrease as you advance in your course—George is gone to Rockville to visit Johnson whose health is very indifferent in consequence he says of severe study and probably some other nameless causes—He has not been up since you saw him and I suppose will not come although I have sent to ask him by George—His law business he says is likely to be productive and it is to be hoped he will not give it up in a fit of impatience—or rather the perpetual terror of consumption which he suffers to prey constantly on his mind—I foresaw this difficulty and on that account was very anxious he should settle among his friends who would have formed a pleasant society for him and taken care of his health at the same time I still hope he will soon remove to Frederick for the same reasons otherwise I fear he will give up his  and blight all his prospects—
We have had a tremendous Gale of Wind which has done some mischief among the small Craft at Alexandria but not much at Washington. I fear it must have been very dreadful with you more especially to any Vessels arriving—
We are in momentous expectations of the arrival of Baron Thyle which is the only novelty at this moment in anticipation excepting the wedding of Miss Cecilia Thompson who is to be married in two or three weeks to Mr. Stevens—Next Month or perhaps later we are to expect a Prussian and a Dutch Minister and if a War should take place in Europe we shall probably have a new French one—The Mexicans are gone to Philadelphia and it is said that  is to be married to Miss Ford who I believe you recollect This is all the news I have; the Cottringers called yesterday but I was not at home I am afraid that John’s serious belle passion may interfere with his future residence in Washington I would therefore recommend to him to cure it as soon as possible that it may not interfere with his future plans.
Miss Hopkinson is still with but I shall probably accompany her to Baltimore in a few days—You must not expect to hear from me till I return— / Adieu

L. C. A.—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Quincy Adams, 3 April 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Rockville 3 April 1823

				Our poor George is so much better to day that we shall probably be able to get home sooner than I at first anticipated although I cannot fix the time as the arm is not yet in a state to curve. The inflamation has entirely subsided and the feverish symptoms are so much diminished that the Doctor says his case is more thriving than could possibly have been expected—We this morning changed his bed and he bore his removal without suffering and has been much easier since—Johnson looks very ill but is I think better than when you left him. He cannot procure the Medicine which Dr. Huntt recommended nor in fact is any thing whatever to be had in this place this being the last sheet of paper to be had could you find any opportunity to send me down some with the above mentioned things from Huntt I should be very glad as I really feel very anxious that he should begin the course prescribed as I think him seriously ill and requiring great care and skill to prevent alarming consequences—Among my Commissions I wish Mary to get Mrs. Forrests receipts for the Rhubarb draughts and to have them prepared at Guntons and sent with the other things among which I should like to have felt Mr. Adams’s Flannel Gown and Georges Cloak—and Elizabeth wants the Muslin Hand kerchiefs she is making which Mary will find in the second drawer in my Chamber—A few sheets of paper pens &c would be very acceptable and Mr Forrest may perhaps hear of an opportunity from George Town—Give my love to the Girls and tell Elizabeth if she has not left you how very sorry I have am that I shall not see her again and that I hope she will be quite well ere she leaves you—For yourself my beloved friend I cannot express how anxious I feel to hear from you as your indisposition of yesterday gave me indescribable pain—Poor George like yourself is too anxious to philosophize and examine into the minutia of things which he cannot understand to get well without some trouble and I hourly think of John’s story of the Spider although he behaves better than I could hope considering how restless and whimsical he is in his general notions—He finds me a very determined Nurse and Mistress and the Dr. highly extols him as a Patient—God send that he may soon be enabled to move and that he may soon be conducted home to you quite convalescent by your affectionate Wife

					L. C. Adams—

					Mary had better send a Dozen of the Draughts—Write how Caroline is I am very anxious to know—Excuse all and many faults—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 10 April 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

Washington 10 April 1823

You will no doubt have been fretting again at my unusual silence but it has been occassioned by a very unfortunate accident which befel your brother on his return from Rockville where he had been to visit Johnson—He was thrown from his Horse and fractured his right just in the elbow joint which is likely to disable him for many months—Your father and myself went immediately to Montgomery where we found his arm had been set by a very good Surgeon and every thing done that could be done in such a situation to make him comfortable—His fever was very high and I remained to take care of him as poor Johnson was quite as ill as himself. Until yesterday it was impossible to move him when he bore his ride over the horrid Turnpike with great fortitude and I gave him safe back to his father though bruised and maimed and incapable of doing much for himself—The accident occurred about a mile on this side of Rockville and he after breaking his arm mounted his House with a view to proceed to Johnson’s Rooms. A fainting seized him which obliged him to dismount and remain seated against a fence until a Cast could be procured and a bed to take him on—Johnson and a Gentleman had fortunately walked out and come up to him immediately after his fall so that he met with all the kindness that the most anxious friends could wish—He behaved with the greatest heroism and has quite made himself a name among the inhabitants of the place and has then borne his sufferings with as much patience as could be expected from a man in such a situation never flinching from pain or refusing the remedies ordered and submitting pretty well to the confinement of laying on his back and keeping the poor broken arm in a strict position—
He most sensibly feels the fatigue of yesterday and is low and feverish but the Doctor say’s is doing well—
I cannot write on any other subject as I am still very anxious and must beg you to break it to your Grandfather which will account for the silence of your brother and present his expecting him to write for sometime—I received your last Letter and as your brother cannot write to you shall say nothing more on the business—
I am very sorry that you have such bad weather. Give my love to Charles and believe me your affec / Mother

L. C. Adams.

G. desires to be remembered to you both—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 13 April 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

Washington 13 April 1823.

Your brother my Dear Charles is much better and his arm doing well though it will probably be a long time before it will be of any use to him. He is entirely without fever and his health in consequence of leaving off tobacco in all its forms is better than it has been a long time. Both his Surgeons have agreed that he is undermining and destroying his Constition which cannot support any powerful and active stimulant which would inevitably shorten his days.—This is advice for both you and John, and I leave you to make the most of it—
Miss Selden came the other day to take leave of us she is going to Norfolk to pass the Summer—The Cottringers  are all in Town and Mrs. Moore has got a Son—
Miss C Thompson came yesterday to invite Mary to be bridemaid as she is to be married on the 22 instt—The Wedding was to have been quite private but as there are six groomsmen and bridemaids I presume it is to be a gay one—Of this however I will tell you when the time comes. Mary Miss  Kerr Miss Feil Miss  E Monro Miss Pleasanton and Miss L  Thompson are to exhibit on this occasion and I have only heard three of the Gentlemen named Col Henderson Major Dix and Mr D’ Espinville who has become quite a finished Buck since Laborie went away—
Every thing here goes on quietly and there is nothing stirring to make a subject for writing—Your Uncle and Aunt Smith have just removed to the neighbourhood of Mrs. Decatur’s House in the Square which is taken by Baron Hayle who is expected every hour if not already arrived—
Your Uncle Tom intends to visit you this Summer at the North and your father and myself still hope to leave this City sometime in July—George will by that time be able to go on and begin his Law reading with Mr Webster who says he is a hard Master—
Remember me to John and never doubt the affection of your Mother.

L. C. Adams.


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 16 April 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 16 April 1823

				I have not written to you for some time my Dear Sir because I had nothing but bad news to tell but being all once more in the mending way I hasten to assure you that Georges arm is doing as well as we can hope and that the recovery is as rapid as the injury received will permit although he must bear up against a very tedious confinement—Although his fever ran high for the first four days his health generally speaking is better than it has been for several Months and I think it probable it will be benefited by the attention he is obliged now to pay to his diet—Every thing is so still in our part of the World that we have absolutely nothing to talk of unless it is your Election in Masstts. That however excites but little astonishment as the Hartford Convention is too much execrated to have made it a matter of wonder that one of its members should have been defeated—I am sorry for the disappointment of Mr. Otis individually but I am very glad that the Nation and the State should manifest their disapprobation of a fact which was unquestionably disgraceful to the Country—George flatters himself if he was now in Boston Governor Eustis would make him one of his Aids—You will laugh at the young Gentlemans ambition—He will go on with us and commence his last year of study with Mr Webster who is prepared to receive him—The European politicks are now becoming very interesting and the preposterous War now threatened with Spain occupies all the attention of the publick so much so as to check in some measure the phrenzy excited by the Presidential Question—It will do some good to us if it only allays some of the fiery paroxisms which have burst forth within the last year and I heartily pray that the poor beings thus affected may no more be tempted to call forth the ire of one who has proved himself a giant in the strife and crushed the puny pigmies who have assailed him by the best of all possible weapons talents and truth—We hope my Dear Sir that you are well and that we shall have the pleasure of passing part of the Summer with you at Quincy Mr. A— requires the change of air and exercise and I flatter myself he will find great benefit from the journey and the sight of his friends his health has been much shook by the winter but he begins to recover his appetite and strength and is evidently getting better every dayGeorge presents his duty and I beg to be remembered to all the family

					L. C. A—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 19 April 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					Washington 19 April 1823

				Your Letter is this moment brought me and I really cannot conceive what you mean my Dear Charles by John’s thirteen Letter a week or who  the numerous correspondents can be from whom he receives them—I am perfectly sure that neither of you could take time to read them much less to answer them—The roads have been so bad that the course of the Mails has been much interrupted and I fear I have not been as punctual as I might be—I write so much in the Winter I lose the relish for it in the Spring and added to that we are  as you know so stupidly quiet unless we possess great and extraordinary genius it is not possible to write a Letter worth reading—Your father was much amused at the idea of your assumption of dignity when you write to him and as he made no answer to your petition I will advise you to delay your project until after Commencement—when you begin your Junr. year you will have more leisure to attend to it and will of course make a greater proficiency so as to attain the end to which you aspire—The papers have this day announced Mr Quincy’s election as Mayor—it is a lofty aspiration for place and he must no doubt be much gratified by his success more especially by such an overwhelming majority!!!I have no doubt of John’s success; the only thing that he wants is confidence in himself and I hope I shall here that he modestly assumed that easy assurance which will carry him through with flying colours—Your taste is so much improved to your studies I have no doubt of your having your turn when you will be as “amusing” as your brother is now—We are about to have a succession of Balls on account of Miss Thompson’s marriage and I wish they were all over most sincerely—This would probably interest both John and you and at any rate I hope it will furnish something to rattle about in future Letters—Poor George was invited to be one of the Groomsmen but his arm is not yet in such a state as to enable him to wear his Coat—God Bless you both is most sincerely prayed by your mother

					L. C. Adams


Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 22 April 1823
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

					My dear Sir.
					Washington 22. April 1823.

				Mr De Bresson, a Secretary to the French Legation at this place, and his Lady who is a daughter of Mr Thompson the Secretary of the Navy, are going upon a Short visit to Boston; occasioned by the approaching departure of our old acquaintance and relative of Mr de Valnais.Mr de Bresson is desirous upon this occasion of paying his respects personally to you, and I take great pleasure in introducing him, and I hope his Lady to your acquaintance—Judging of the satisfaction which it will give you, from the esteem that I entertain for them, I could not discharge a more agreeable duty—Mr De Bresson who has been upwards of two years a member of the French Legation here, by the propriety of his Department has conceliated the friendship of all to whom he is known; and his Lady whom he has lately married, now does honour to the nuptial State, as she had before adorned the maiden condition.I am, Dear Sir, your faithful and dutiful Son.

					John Quincy Adams.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 26 April 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 26 April 1823.

				I have been very sick confined to my bed for several days therefore not able to write to either of you as I have intended as I have this day left my bed I send you at least a few lines in answer to both your Letters received within two days and to express if possible the gratification which the proper and affectionate feelings they manifested to your brother occasioned both to your father and myself—He is still quite helpless although the arm is doing well and I would if I could give you some information concerning the fracture but fear I shall get entangled in the technical phraseology of our learned Surgeons which is altogether beyond my comprehension—The injury was in the Coronoid process which was fractured and the internal Condile of the humerus was dreadfully pressed so that the (to speak english) elbow joint gave way and the arm bone from the shoulder pressed forward and the bone below the elbow pushed back and thus forced all the muscles down towards the  Wrist which by the effort to remount the horse which he accomplished and the exertion of again dismounting to save himself from a second fall in consequence of the fainting which siezed him so bruised all those parts as to make it probable that though the bone has happily reunited it will be long before he recovers the horrible effect of the contusion—He is however in a fair way of recovery and already joins the family at meals—His nerves are a good deal shaken and he suffers much from the tooth ache in every other respect he is wonderfully better in consequence of leaving off snuff and Tobacco in every form—I am delighted to hear that you have done the same for I assure you that half of the evils of poor G’s belle passion have dissolved into this air since that all potent plant has ceased to keep his nerves in a state of irrascibility almost amounting to phrenzy—Cicely was married last Tuesday and Mary officiated as Bridemaid—Miss Kerr declined the honour having been so unfortunate with Mrs. Middleton and Miss Goldsborough took her place—Next Tuesday they give a Ball. Wednesday we have a dinner to Baron Tuyll and Mr. Hersant and Thursday a Ball at S. N—The Cottringers called here a few days ago and told us there were to be a number of parties on May day to make a number of Queens plenty of whom are  believe to be found in our City and only the above mentioned acknowledged by our house of Representatives as Sovereigns of the people—They are all to be à la PaysanneJohnson has left us for Rockville within an hour and has promised to return in a short time—He is recovering fast—Mary has been quite sick and your Uncle is with us quite well. He will visit Boston this Summer when we come. This  War in Europe will I fear prevent your fathers visit until Commencement and I will not leave him earlier—But we will both come as soon as possible—

					L. C. A—

   a paradox


Title: To John Adams from Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 3 May 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					My Dear Father
					Washington 3 May 1823

				I should certainly have answered your last very kind Letter immediately, had I not been very suddenly siezed by a violent Fever which confined me to my bed, and so entirely prostrated me in a few hours as to render all exertion impossible. Blistering and bleeding have at length subdued the disease, and I am now about the house again, although far from well, and sieze the moment of recovery to inform you that George though very cripple, is doing (we hope) as well as possible under the remedies prescribed; and our only apprehension is that some stiffness may remain in the joint; which may occasion future inconvenience—The reason of my writing first to John on the subject of the accident, was certainly to spare your feelings any sudden and violent shock, as this was a case which admitted of no alleviation, and which neither advice nor sympathy could remedy or assuage—The distance which separates us would only have been a source of added anxiety, and I therefore thought it would be better to pursue the course which I adopted—Had I been near you when the accident occurred, I should not have hesitated to inform you instantly of the circumstance, as I am perfectly acquainted with your firmness, and should have looked to you for consolation and comfort, which I have ever found you ready to afford me—The prospect of a European War, the Pirates, the North Western Coast, and numerous other points of political importance, at present so entirely absorb Mr. Adams’s time, he is even more oppressed by his official labours than he was during the Session of Congress—As these circumstances are  at present the most prominent I suppose them to be the points which so deeply occupy him; but my judgment as to his real business may be and is probably quite erroneous—What do you think my Dear Sir of the prospects of Spain?—Is it not singular that nothing can teach the Bourbon’s prudence? adversity it has been said is a great master, but in this instance it seems to have failed altogether, and we cannot help recurring to the observation of Napoleon, who said “ils n’ont rien oubliez et ils n’ont rien appris”—for every days experience conforms its justice—Dreadful indeed will be the state of Europe should another violent struggle for liberty ensue; as the savage hordes of the North will overrun its fertile vales, and introduce a new race of beings on its soil, and lay its present population in the dust—These Nations it is true are all vicious—but the vices of a civilized people notwithstanding all that modern philosophers can write on the subject, are less odious than the vices of barbarians, who add to the general stock possessed by mankind universally, all the savage cruelty of untamed passions, and uncurbed appetites—I lived long enough in Russia to form an idea of the loathsome picture, and sincerely pray God to prevent the horrid calamities which threaten these stormy times—Thank God that we are exempted from these evils, and that most of our ire is wasted on Newspapers, which injure no one materially, though they may produce a little momentary “vexation of spirit”—The perfectly established integrity of your Son, has hitherto made me laugh these things to scorn; and this shield will I have no doubt protect me through the “raging of the battle” which yet must last its time—I am indifferent as to its result, having little or no ambition for myself—My Brother has just arrived in very good health from New Orleans—He proposes visiting Boston this Summer, and will pay his Respects to you, to whom he is grateful for many kindnesses formerly received—The President leaves Town to day for a few days—Mr. Crawford is going to pay a visit to Mr. Jefferson and to Mr. Madison—Mr Calhoun has given up his trip to Carolina, and is going to Bedford: and Mr. Thompson is to remain here through the Summer—Mr. A. will certainly come on to Boston, but I fear from the present aspect of things not so soon as he expected. John however will prepare as we shall certainly not fail him at Commencement, and shall hasten to see you my dear Sir as much sooner as publick duties will permit—We anticipate with impatience some account of the Exhibition which took place last Tuesday, and hope it was attended with brilliant success.—Love to all the family from your affectionate daughter

					L. C. Adams


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 5 May 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					Washington 5 May 1823

				Being better to day my dear Charles I hasten to write to you fearful if I delay that a Chill and another attack of fever should prevent me and deprive you of hearing how George comes on—We are at present very anxious on account of a violent spasmodic affection of the muscles which are very considerably contracted and make it impossible to straighten the arm—he moves the fingers but cannot hold any thing and there is some play in the wrist—As I never saw any thing of the kind before I am perhaps alarmed without sufficient cause but Dr Huntt intimated yesterday apprehension that the joint might remain stiff John can ask Dr. Warren and let me know if there is any danger and what to do to prevent it—I have been so sick it has been impossible for me to go out to the parties given to Mrs. Hersants but there has been little or nothing done in that way as you can scarcely collect dancers enough to make two Cotillions—Mr & Madame de Bresson are now in Boston on a visit and I understand are much pleased with the place—They will I hope receive attention and they propose to go out to see your Grandfather to whom they have a Letter.—Mr. Marston writes that the old Gentleman loses his strength rapidly—have you noticed that he is weaker than he was?Your father will let you learn Italian if you wish it but he is afraid it my take too much time from more serious studies—As to the petition about the Books your father says you must send him a list and he will indulge you under certain limits—This you ought to be very grateful for as it is an indulgence which few boys or men of your age could expect—I am so confident that you will use every effort towards improvement that I do  not mind a word you say for indeed I would not have so bad an opinion as to suppose you would return evil for constant and unwearied goodGod Bless you my dear Boy if you wish to spare my old and weak eyes pray write more distinctly—Your writing is much too small

					L. C. A.


Title: From John Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 10 May 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

my Dear Daughter
Quincy May 10th. 1823—

Thanks for your favor of the third—With great pleasure I learn that you are all convalescent, and that your Brother is well and intends us a visit with you—Our John performed his part at the Exhibition with applause and approbation; But something has happened since, that has brought him here, where I wish he could remain, till next August twelve months, but I cannot advise him so, for his Fathers advise is much better; John has become a sensible considerate young Man, he has communicated to me his plans for his future Life, which pleased me very much. A hurricane or a Tornado has happened at College, which has blown away fifty five of the Senior Class, and John one of the number, I cannot censure the Government, because the outrage was too violent to be overlooked, And I cannot find it in my heart severely to reproach John, since he did no more than all the rest, nor so much as many, but I presume he has communicated with great candor the whole to his father and mother, who I hope will receive him tenderly, and forgive him kindly, though I have not censured the Government, nor entirely approved of his Conduct, I believe his personal provocations were very great.—
The Secretarys prospects are nothing but slavery for two years to come, the spirit of evil has got abroad in Europe and Asia. The Bourbons and the French people are not yet wise, nor are the Spanish people for they have adopted a foolish Franklinian system, which is not a farthing better than their ancient monarchy it will be as bloody and ferocious, and cruel as the French revolution, And must end in a dictatorship like that of Napoleon before it can get into any order. even if they should be able to defend themselves against Russia Prussia and France; I cannot promise myself that we, notwithstanding our distance shall be able to escape the conflagration, Our Government may have as hard a task to preserve our neutrality as I had in 1800 I fear that too many of Napoleans prophesies will come to pass, the Wolves of Dallecarlia, the Bears of Siberia, and the Tygers and Panthers the successors of Zingeskan, if drawn together and let loose will spread the personification of evil over the world.—
I am your affectionate Father
John Adams.


Title: From John Adams to Alexander Bryan Johnson, 10 May 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Johnson, Alexander Bryan

My Dear Sir.
Quincy 10th. May. 1823

I have received your favor of May 5th. The King of England has performed one noble action, and I hope he will many more, his Fathers library was a glorious one, when I saw it, it was well chosen, elegantly printed bound and lettered, but not gorgeously, it has been greatly increased since I saw it. If it was in my power I would give as many Books to my Quincy Academy, but this is only a Utopian wish, and vision.—Have you read Omeara and las-Cases, these I think deserve to become Classacal Books Napoleon can never be forgotten he deserves to be remembered more than Alexander or Ceaser or Nebuchadnezzar or Zingeskan; as a legislator a hero and a conqueror he was greater than them all, and a much better Man—
I know little about the inhabitants of Utica but I understand they are good friends of the Southern interest, and much good may their political faith do them—I presume they have a reasonable quantity of New York Antipathy to new England, I hope however they will be blessed and became a great City. Even my Grand Son De Wint is seasoned with a spice of contempt for New England, and a reasonable admiration for the southern Statesmen. I hope however that Cedar Grove will be blessed, and all its Inhabitants ? Do you read French? Love to Susan and Abigail and all the little ones. with the best wishes for your / welfare, from your, and their affectionate / Grandfather
John Adams


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 10 May 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 10 May 1823

				What shall I say to you my Dear John? or how shall I refrain from reproaching you? I will not judge you because I cannot yet understand what the difficulty is which occasioned your fault for a fault it is and a grave one however you or your Class may colour it—You were fully aware of how much you would lose and perfectly understood how much your father always is affected by this sort of misconduct—Of what consequence wh was it for the short time you were to remain in College whether your fellow Student was good or bad? and what right had the Class to undertake to punish him and by this means draw down disgrace and punishment upon themselves?I will hope my dearly beloved Son that you may yet be restored to your place by making proper submissions and I pray you to beware how you suffer a strong wrong and mistaken pride to confirm a disgrace which would render your father inflexible, give me heartfelt pain, and produce to yourself years of sorrow and repentance—If you have any influence with your Classmates, exert it like a rational being, and endeavour to lead them back to the path of honourable distinction which is seldom to be found in rebellion, unless in very very extraordinary cases, in which the hard hand of oppression is stretched beyond the possibility of endurance—Your feelings I am sure are very keenly affected by this most unpleasant circumstance; I will therefore say nothing more on the subject, being perfectly convinced that no exertion will be spared on your part to obtain the pardon of the Government, as you owe it to yourself, but still more to your father, to whom your debt of gratitude for the most unbounded kindness can never be repaid but by good conduct, and a return to those duties which will lay the foundation for your future success in life, with honour to yourself and to your connections.—You had a warning in your brothers former folly which ought to have shielded you from the error you have now committed—and the distress into which the family have recently been plunged, should have proved a caution to you not to have added to the pangs of your Mother

					L. C. Adams.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 11 May 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					Washington 11 May 1823

				I received yesterday my dear Charles your Letter of the 4th. and hasten to answer it as I really feel anxious lest the heated atmosphere in which you appear to have lived for the last week or two should produce have a bad effect and produce the fever which is so common at Cambridge towards the end of a term and generally so frightfully infectious—We are much obliged to you for the information contained in your Letter as John in his high spirited way said nothing in his vindication and merely stated that he was dissmissed in consequence of some unpleasant occurrences at Cambridge only requesting us not to prejudge him a thing which neither his father or myself have the least inclination to do more especially as we always incline to be lenient when it is within a possibility—This is one of those cases in which it is difficult to decide with strict justice to both parties—All this trouble might have been avoided or at least much mitigated had the Class drawn up a memorial to the Government stating their griefs in a manly and firm manner and petitioning for the return of Robinson—If it had not proved successful it would in all probability of have produced a good effect and prevented the Rebellion which has taken place which nothing can justify as it is always attended by an infringement of those Laws which ought and must be binding to keep the Instition in its perfect and useful purpose which is decidedly intended to be beneficial to mankind—It is not for rash and hot headed youth to take judgment into their own hands for there is scarcely an instance of the exercise of this kind of power which is not proved to end in mischief more frequently in guilt—Reason and passion are ever at variance and though the motives which actuate us in the first instance may be fair and honourable the mode of expressing those sentiments may be utterly improper and lead to the most pernicious consequences—It is peculiarly difficult to resist the torrent with which in our common relations in society we are frequently linked. but it is our duty whenever there is a possibility of such exertion not only to subdue our own passions but use our utmost influence to mollify and soften those violent impulses which generally actuate the many and which once coursed into action like the whirlwind devastate and destroy and injure alike the innocent and the guilty—Be therefore timely warned my and recollect that you war against talent and experience power and strength and that in such struggles you defeat your own education and utterly deprive yourself of that particular advantage which is considered both in Europe and this Country as the peculiar privilege which leads to future eminence—and keep constantly in view the example of your brothers both of whom have been involved in troubles because they wanted a little firmness which if exerted before the exc general excitement would I am confident prevent much of the discord confusion and disgrace which so often assail the students—This matter occupies the Editors of Newspapers as much as the Presidential Election and to about as much purpose—It gives a good opportunity for fabulous histories and conceits and for a great display of ignorance—Person’s who dabble with matters beyond my their comprehension always commit errors, which silence would prevent—Keep Cool and write me often—We are impatient for further accounts—Give my love to John and tell him that we yet hope that some arrangement will be made to retrieve the present misfortune and that we do not blame him singly—Yours Ever notwithstanding bad jokes which you do not from your Mother

					L C A—

					P. S. Edward Tayloe’s statement was sent to us by Ogle last evening and is very circumstantial—I repeat we hope the best but still have many fears


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 11 May 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 11th. May 1823

				From Letters received from Edward Taylor and Charles, I at length understand that the unpleasant occurrence which has taken place at Cambridge has again proved one of those in which the Esprit de Corps has made it necessary for you to take your part and to act with your Class—I grieve most sincerely at this necessity which ultimately must be very injurious to you and probably lose you your degree but it is an evil to which we must now submit and you will have an opportunity I trust by your application and diligence in your professional Studies which I presume should you not return to College you will immediately commence and thus to retrieve as far as you can the present misfortune for one it is to you which I do not and cannot pretend to conceal—Your father though very much vexed makes every allowance for your difficult situation and now relies on your making the necessary submission should any be required to ensure your return and this will obviate all further trouble and anxiety on the subject and lead perhaps to a residence in the family at least for a short period—George’s Arm is doing well we hope but it will be months before he recovers the use of it if ever—He is in good spirits though very thin—Mary has been quite sick but is likewise getting better—My own health is nearly restored and I hope to grow fat this Summer if nothing intervenes to prevent—I am sorry to hear that your Grandfather complains I hope the mild weather of Spring will be of service to him.—Though he is no doubt angry with you he will I hope spare bitter reproaches which generally do more harm than good—. I was very much pleased with your Letter to your father it was manly and respectful and I confess that if I have committed an error I had rather be the first to acknowledge it than to suffer the apologetic or exaggerated accounts which are written by friends or foes—remember by beloved Son that although I must condemn this turbulent spirit which leads young men to set all laws at defiance that I am still your affectionate and anxious Mother

					L. C. A.

					P.S. If opportunity offers for a return to College beware of pride and do not mistake it for false honour.—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 18 May 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					Washington 18 May 1823

				Your Letter of the 10th. my Dear Charles afflicted me very much as it still betrayed the same spirit which has already cost your brother so much and which if not timely quelled may end in crimes at which my soul shudders with horror—Let me ask you once more, are you or any of the young person’s who are at College while your passions are excited to fury I say are you capable of judging correctly on a point of such a nature and is not the Government bound by every thing solemn to protect the person’s and lives of the Students placed under their charge? can they are or ought they to countenance under any circumstance whatever such a rebellion as this, or in fact any whatever? Put these questions to yourself and to your Classmates and let them decide on what right they act and whether they can justify themselves to their Parents and to their own hearts—John will tell you honestly and candidly that he deeply regrets the circumstance which has deprived him of the honours he was so near receiving both to the high gratification of your father and myself—During your vacation you will have ample time to reflect upon the subject and I hope that you will obtain both influence and distinction by preaching peace and good will even to the fallen, in the hope that his errors may be pardoned and that he may only suffer from the inflictions of his own conduct conscience—What is the course to be pursued? The President has written to your Father announcing John’s dissmission and that he is not to receive his degree or go to Cambridge—for a year—Can he come home and may he begin the Study of the Law under these circumstances; and will his professional studies should he begin immedeately date from the present time with the Bar—You must answer all these questions through your Uncle Thomas who must endeavour to ascertain them positively—John is to come home but the time is not yet fixed—Your father will write on the subject as soon as he has leisure—We are very anxious concerning your Grand fathers health—His Letter to me which I received two days since denotes no change in his spirits and I flatter myself the warm weather will restore him to his usual strength—My Brother begs to be respectfully remembered to him and hopes to have the pleasure of seeing him in the course of the Summer—Poor Black Charles is dangerously sick and the family generally except your father are sickly—We have heard from Tom Hellen he is much pleased with his situation and quite happy—Love to all from your affectionate Mother

					L C A—

					It was happy for John he did so well at Exhibition as it has left a good impression How goes the Phi Beta Capa—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 24 May 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 24 May 1823

				As I feel very much concerned for your dissmission from College my Dear John lest you should have some debts that may embarrass you I beg you me immediately that I may find some plan if possible to extricate you from your most pressing difficulties without disguising in the least the real state of things—My means are very small but perhaps I may find some medium which may enable me to settle matters at least for the present and transfer your debt to one who will give you a long credit upon reasonable interest—Johnson came up last night to stay some time with us and looks much better though he says he has been quite sick—Colvert has arrived and is to proceed to Europe in five weeks—Pray is young Bonaparte in your Class and what age is he—It is said he is about to marry his Cousin—What sort of a young man is he and was he one who got into trouble?Poor Mrs. Whitcomb—I see by yesterday’s Mail that she died in Boston—did you know she was sick?—It is a happy release for I believe she was very miserable—We are told that there is to be a commencement and that some distinguished Members still remain in the Class—Ogle Tayloe and his Sisters are to go on and Edward I suppose is to be a leading Member—Who were the four young men that were expelled we took Tea last Evening at Mrs. Decaturs that is to say your Uncle Tom and myself. We only met the Secretary of the Navy’s family and the British Legation but on the whole passed a pleasant Eveng—George’s Arm is getting better  SlowlyWe are all pretty well though the heat has been excessive—Give my love to all and believe me as ever your affectionate Mother

					L. C. A—


Title: From John Adams to Joseph Adams, 29 May 1823
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Joseph

My dear Sir
Quincy May 29th 1823

I have received your kind letter of the 28th and the terse and nervous pamphlet inclosed My friend Mr Shaw of the Atheneum brought up that Pamphlet and read it to me a fortnight or three weeks ago I thank you for the present and feel a pride that a man of our name should have written it you I presume you are a sprig from the old Mount Wollaston stem and should be glad to know from which branch.
The author of that pamphlet cannot be long unknown or remain long in obscurity the public will soon hear more of him. I wish him and you and yours all happiness and am / Your friend & Cousin
John Adams.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to John Adams, 29 May 1823
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

					My dear Son
					Washington 29. May 1823

				I have received your two Letters; and have since then also received a Letter from President Kirkland, containing a Statement of the reasons of your dismission from the University—I have delayed answering your Letters, in the hope, that you might obtain permission to return after the vacation, and receive your degree, without degradation—I have written to President Kirkland, and hope to hear soon from him in reply—In the mean time I wish to spare you and myself the pain of expressing my feelings on this occasion—Yesterday your Mother received your Letter mentioning the illness of my Uncle Adams, and repeating your previous accounts of my dear father’s infirm state of health—If Mr Cruft can procure a Carriage like that which you mention, and you can obtain your Grandfather’s consent to make use of it, I most cheerfully authorise you and Mr Cruft to do so, and to charge the expense of the Carriage to me—I hope in two Months from this time to be enabled to leave this place for a few weeks to visit my father. It may be sometime in August before I can go. My absence must not be long—Your brother George will then leave me, to complete the third year of his Law Studies, at Boston—I propose that you should come with me, when I return here; to take his place in my family—And we may hereafter consider your project of settling eventually at Baltimore—Give my duty to your Grandfather, and my love to your brother Charles, and the other members of the family.I am your affectionate father

					John Quincy Adams.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 29 May 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 29 May 1823

				I was very much hurt at the tone of your Letter yesterday my Dear John which could only be accounted for by the sourness and irritation which the late unpleasant events at Cambridge have produced upon your feelings and general character—You are too susceptible and misconceive the meaning of even your best friends still worse of a Mother who has ever shewn you the utmost kindness and tenderness—When I wrote to you I asked your father what I should answer and he willing to flatter himself concerning his fathers situation and clinging to hope attributed your fears to the natural agitation and trouble which your own difficulties had created naturally believing likewise that some one or other of his connections would have given information of such deep interest—If my company could afford him any pleasure I would with great pleasure go on although I candidly confess I could not leave your father long as he really suffered from my absence last Summer and we fear it will be sickly here during the Summer—Your father has written you a very kind Letter and stated the reasons why he did not write earlier—We still hope that you will return to College, and as faults are acknowledged on both sides neither can scruple to make concessions and thus you will still obtain those distinctions I trust which your application and exertions entitled you to expect—Johnson and George are perfectly crazy about the race and it is rumoured in Town that Eclipse has won—It is a terrible thing that they should mix local jealousies with their sport for I fear much harm may result from passions and feelings thus excited Mary is on a visit to Mrs. Decatur and George’s arm is getting better slowly but it will be some Months before it is strait—We are all as dull as possible and very anxious to learn that you are all better as well as your Mother

					L. C. A—


Title: From John Adams Smith to Jeremy Bentham, 30 May 1823
From: Smith, John Adams
To: Bentham, Jeremy

					My dear Sir.
					May 30th 1823

				Our Consul Hunter would gladly join in the repast of potatoes & water to which your kind note invites him on Thursday—& I should be glad of his having a tête á tête, at the empyreum board of good principles & free government—I am no tweedler—nor do I speak to deceive or listen to betray—but he leaves town on Saturday for Cowes—I am ever Yours

					J. Adams Smith


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 1 June 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					Washington 1 June 1823

				The Mail is this moment arrived and as I am at leisure I hasten to answer your Letter which is a very good one if it had been a little more legible to read.—Hard things to get at are we know often thought more valuable but Enigma’s but would be worthless if we never discovered their meaning—I therefore again pray you to attend to your hand writing and to write a large hand which will correct the cramped manner which you have acquired and which can no otherwise be overcome but by writing large and bold Letters—If you could find time to write a Copy every day in a few weeks you would conquer the difficulty and spare my poor eyes that are becoming so bad I shall soon not be able to decypher them at all—I could not help smiling at the termination of your letter in which you use the word crimes very pointedly though oddly—The expression in my Letter was owing to your saying in a former one that the suspected person who has caused all the mischief at College should he return was in danger of being torn to pieces—You will not be surprized that an expression so strong should have made me shudder and warn you against a possibility of being involved in  what to all intents and purposes would be crime and crime of a dreadful nature—Enough however on this very unpleasant subject which I trust will not be painfully renewed—The question’s I put to you concerning John’s degree were not intended for your father—I only wanted to know because it was suggested that he must read Law four years instead of three—Colvert is going to Europe in four or five weeks but his father is very much vexed at the loss of his degree for so long a time—We are all intolerably dull here and nothing seems to rouze us—Johnson is come from Montgomery and is much better—Mary is at Halorama on a visit to the Miss McKnights—Your Uncle Tom is gone to your Aunt Fryes and Georges Arms is getting well—slowly—There is very little improvement going on in the City excepting a Bank or rather Branch Bank for the United States which is to be erected opposite the State Department and to cost from twelve to twenty thousand dollars—The plan is said to be beautiful but like all our beautiful plans it is to be defaced because the Cashier chuses to have a South front to his house—The study of Botany is very pleasant, but your vacation was too short to give you much insight into the business—Your father has written a most kind and affectionate Letter to John—he is much pleased at his success at the Exhibition We yet hope he will get his degree at the proper time—Your father hourly anticipates the Presidents answer—Your Mother

					L. C. A—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 13 June 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 13 June 1823

				Your last Letter my Dear John was indeed filled with grievous news and I sincerely pity the afflicted family who are left in a situation so melancholy—The shock must no doubt have been severe to your Grandfather although it was expected; but the strongest minds insensibly repel the idea of death until the inevitable doom is sealed, and we cannot fly from conviction by its sad and solemn reality—The old Gentleman is removed from a scene of sorrow and calamity from which he could not relieve those who were dear to him by the strongest ties of family connection, and is removed to a world in which we are promised oblivion to our woes. God send him rest—You will have received your fathers very kind and affectionate Letter, which will convince you that altho’ he apparently neglected you, you were never out of his thoughts—beware my Dear John of hasty judgments—they only embitter moments which otherwise would be passed in happiness, and lead us into moroseness and discontent—The pressure of public business is overpowering, and your father’s principles on this subject are severe to an excess, even to the devotion of every other thing in the world—You must therefore not imagine that you alone suffer, but believe that he loves us all equally, and that circumstances alone of the utmost importance, prevents the ready expression of his sentiments, which are always kind, always paternal—Charles must feel your loss sensibly, and I was much gratified by your manner of writing on the subject—family union and affection, I have ever found the most delightful, and the Dearest blessing that I have enjoyed through life—It is difficult in this journey even to meet with those who can supply the place of Brothers, who from our earliest recollections, are so entwined with our sorrows, our pleasures, and our affections, we naturally, nay almost imperceptibly cling to them, and want their sympathy through life—Most earnestly do I pray that no event may ever occur to blast the fruit which has ripened so propitiously under my guidance, and may you and your brothers long live to taste its sweets, and cultivate its delights—Present me most affectionately to your Grandfather—Your Uncle leaves us on Monday to begin his tour—He expects to be with you early in August, or rather in Boston; where I hope you will meet him as soon as possible after his arrival, and show him as much attention as you have in your power to offer—We shall be with you late in that Month and remain until October—My health  is so bad that I wish the time was come, but if I am not better soon, I shall make up my mind to give up the journey, as I never could go through the fatigue of Boston hospitality—God Bless you my boy; ever love your Mother

					L. C. A—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 15 June 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 15 June 1823

				Yesterday brought me your Letter my Dear John and your father and myself were both pleased to see the account you give of our dear fathers health for whom we have been very anxious for some time—According to your account I am a little afraid you will get spoilt among so many belles who will so inflate your natural vanity that you will be likely to share the fate of Narcissus—Some of these young Ladies may however teach you that you have a heart susceptible of charms superior to those of your present betrothed bride, who will require very long and steady wooing ere she is won, but when won will lead you to wealth, and fame, and distinction—As it regards my visit to Quincy I am cannot at present say at present say when it will be in my power to leave the City but I am very desirous to gratify your Grandfather and myself in hastening it as much as possible—In consequence of the cold my health has been very bad all the Spring, but the return of warm weather seems to have renovated me, and within the last two days I feel a new being—It will however require some time to recover my strength, and I propose to pass a week at Bladensburg to drink the Waters from which I hope to receive great benefit, if not a complete restoration to my usual state as far as coming age will admit—George is ready to commence arguments with you as soon as you meet, and it is probable as you are now initiated in the equivokes of the Law, that you will think him more rational in his theories than he appeared to you when here last winter—Sophistry forms so large a portion of that delectable profession, that you will unfortunately learn in the course of your reading that to be right is not so much esteemed as proof of genius, as to make the “wrong appear the better part”—This is a power however to be used with great discretion even when possessed, and from which an honest man always shrinks—The principles of my children are I trust too good to fear any thing on this subject—I am told that by the Laws of Maryland a man must read law three years within the State to be admitted at that Bar. Of this however more hereafter—I send you Mr. Websters course as given to your Brother—It will be of great service to you for it is complete—As to the things mentioned by Miss Welsh your father says if they are handsome I must take them—If they are all White I shall have no objection if coloured I wont have them—We shall settle with her when we come on—The thermometer near ninety but all well—Do you think I could purchase a pair of very good Horses cheap? ours give out—Let me know—Mr Boylston was very lucky—do not buy any until you hear from your Mother

					L C A


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 17 June 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					Washington 17 June 1823

				Your Letter from Cambridge arrived yesterday my dear Charles and I was sorry to find you still suffered from your old nervous timidity—Do not however despair I struggled many years of my life from against the same difficulty but fortunately conquered it and now can almost generally command myself—Habit and constant practice will soon get the better of this very unpleasant sensation and reading aloud to others will greatly contribute to wear it off—I am at present going to Bladensburg for a week and shall therefore not write until I return in the mean time be assured of the love and warm affection of your Mother

					L. C A—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 28 June 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					Washington 28 June 1823

				Huzza, my little gallant Soldier—what wonderful feats of glorious prowess am I to anticipate from your valour?—Military and philosophical a union of necessity for I believe a poor Soldier never understands philosophy so well as when he is forced into the midst of danger without an opportunity to get out of it—In your military exertions which I understand from your brothers former experiences are not trifling I hope and trust you will take every precaution that is possible of your health for you are yet very young and your Constitution is not fixed and while I am on this subject suffer me to entreat you will not bathe in the river at Cambridge of I have an unbounded horror of and it would make me miserable to think that you ever thrust yourself into such imminent danger—Go to the Bath House and I will pay your expences—When I see you (God knows when that will be) you will I suppose chop logic as fast as your brothers and this calls to mind that George is fast sinking into a plain sober quiet man rapidly preparing to enter on his course of business—His Arm still continues bent which makes him look very awkward but we still hope and flatter ourselves that he will entirely recover it—Of books my dear boy I can say nothing—Your father is kindly indulgent but experience has taught him that this taste becomes a passion grows out of it which like love shrouds the reason and so blinds the judgment ere you think yourself in danger ruin stares you in the face—Should you be refused it will prove a wholesome check for which however hard you may just now think it you will be very thankful a few years hence—You cannot be too popular to please me as I know nothing better calculated to cure you of your mistaken timidity than the conviction that others justly appreciate your talents which though they do not make you a prodigy fit you to pass thro’ the world as easily as your neighbours—I wish you would stir up your Rockville correspondent who is yet with us upon this subject—he values your opinion and you will have the satisfaction of saving a fine young man and keeping him from one of those low connections which will otherwise prove his ruin—The flame for his Brown Betty still exists and grows like love in idleness which is born to wither in the desart—God Bless and preserve you from all harms and second all the good efforts you make to improve yourself is the prayer of your Mother

					L. C. A—


Title: To John Adams from Ward Nicholas Boylston, 29 June 1823
From: Boylston, Ward Nicholas
To: Adams, John

					My Dear Cousin
					(Princeton) Sunday E’vg 29th: June 1823

				I lament to say, that I have been at this place two months, without a Line from you—or seeing any person, who had within that period seen you—I have some degree of pleasure in flattering myself, that you will releive my anxieties by a Letter in reply to one I wrote you  a fortnight since.—The Inclosed Letter was closed to go by the Stage tomorrow morning, but Dr Thayer who preached here today & Dined with us—informs me that he had seen Lt Gov Lincoln yesterday who told him, that Mr Secretan Adams was on his way from Washington & wished to be in Boston on the Celebration of the 4th. of next month—whether his information is correct or not, you will be better able to decide, & therefore beg you to dispose of my Leter to him as you judge best—if not expected soon, it may reach him at the place its addressed.—but if he is to be with you by the middle of the month—it can wait his arrival—I have claimd his promise, & I fasten on your’s, that you will accompany him here—only let me pray & implore you not to leave us so soon as you did last—We shall do every thing to make it pleasant to you—and as you felt some good effects came from a very short visit, I am persuaded you will find more permanent advantage from giveing us, the Happiness of a longer stay—we have added two Bedrooms to our premises that I might accommodate the young Gentlemen of yr. party with seperate Bedrooms if they wish it—With Mrs. Boylston, affectionate Respects to you, & our united regds to Judge & mrs Adams, & the young Ladies—& Miss SmithI am my Dear Cousin ever sincerely yours

					Ward Nich’ Boylston


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 5 July 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					My Dear Charles
					Washington 5 July 1823

				I am very much pained by your account of your health and hope sincerely that you have made a short visit to Quincy where such remedies have been applied as have restored you entirely—It gives me great pleasure to learn that you are growing popular in your Class and I grieve that you must lose your room because I know what delight you took in it, and that you spent a good deal of money on it—Anthony and Ellen have just given us notice that they mean to quit our service in August or the beginning of September and the loss to us as you may suppose is very heavy so much so that we are quite out of sorts at the idea—There are evils which we are all obliged to submit to and though it happens most unfortunately for us at this time we must make the best of it—I am so out of spirits I cannot write any more about it—Your father proposes to leave this place somewhere about the middle of August and to go on as rapidly as possible—We have got Ovis place to say at for a Month of six weeks and I shall go there next week—God Bless you my Son

					L. C. Adams


Title: To John Adams from William Cranch, 9 July 1823
From: Cranch, William
To: Adams, John

					Sir,
					Alexa. D.C. 9th. July 1823

				As I know you feel an interest in the prevalence of the pure principles of the Gospel, I take the liberty of introducing Mr. Mauro; a respectable citizen of Washington, who, I understand, intends visiting New England upon business connected with the interests of the Unitarian Society at Washington; any information which it may be in your power to give him, tending to facilitate the object of his visit, will much oblige, / your most respectful and / obedt servt.

					W. Cranch.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 15 July 1823
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					My dear Son
					Washington 15 July 1823.

				The bearer of this Letter Mr Cornelius McLean is a young Gentleman of very respectable character and connections who goes to Cambridge with the view of entering the University after the next Commencement in the Sophomore Class. I pray you to shew him every kind attention and to render him every obliging service that may be in your power—I am, Your affectionate father—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 17 July 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					Washington 17 July 1823

				I am very sorry my Dear Charles to find by your last Letter that your health is not good but am glad to see that your spirits are high and that you are tolerably happy—Johnson left us yesterday for Rockville and will probably not return very soon as he and I do not agree as well as we used to do—His opinions on politics and his great desire to see your father promoted to a higher station urge him to indiscretions which although well meant produce unpleasant feelings—He is much given to the intrigues practiced in these States and is constantly dissatisfied at the opinions which you know both your parents have on the subject and which no reasoning can change—The poor fellow seems to fancy that in the attainment of this object every blessing will be granted to us and believes me a great hypocrite when I assure him that I do not look upon it as the ne plus ultra of human happiness and express fearful doubts of our ever being bettered by the exchange—They tell me that it is thought by the public that my anxiety upon this point injures my health and that it is in vain for me to deny it as they will not believe any assertion to the contrary—The charm of liberty to me is preferable to all the dignity to be acquired by living in that dull and stately prison in which the sounds of mirth are seldom heard and where dullness presides with as much pomp and dreary show as Pope ever wished to paint—It is the house of wisdom and quite contrary to Dunciad’s crew is filled by the best and most respectable talents,  but this is the very reason why I should not breathe freely in an atmosphere so uncongenial to my nature—So let the matter turn out as it will I am determined to make the best of a bad bargain and if honours are thrust upon me (of which I believe there is no danger) as the War Clarion blows a joyous blast I will bear them as I may neither grieving or rejoicing at my fate though I should prefer above all things to remain as we are—The Cottringers it is said are all going to be married Harriet to George Graham Ann to Robert Brent and Cornelia to Mr Fairfax—Our Theater is open and I have been two or three times to see Mrs. Duff who I like very well—Booth plays Richard to night but I shall not go as I am going to see my Uncle Roger who is just come to the City—I have not heard from John for some time what a fine puff in the papers about the Quincy celebration—God Bless you I am as ever your affectionate / Mother

					L. C. Adams—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 18 July 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 18 July 1823

				I cannot imagine my Dear John what can be the reason of your not writing to me. You used to be a very regular correspondent, but I suppose the Ladies have such demands on your time you have none to bestow on your poor Mother. We are very happy to learn from Mr Pomeroy, that your Grandfather is so entirely recovered he tells us the old Gentleman has not looked so well this two years as he does at this time—Your father proposes to leave this place on the 15 of next Month and to travel with the greatest dispatch so that we shall probably be at Quincy by the 25 or earlier. Mr. A. says he proposes to stay altogether at Quincy and go to Boston as seldom as possible so that I hope we may have a quiet time—I wish I could have passed one week at Nahant but all the advantages of a journey for health are destroyed to me by delaying it until the Season is so far advanced—I have had an intermitting complaint ever since May and it has now settled in my head and face and absolutely stupifies me from excess of pain so that I am neither fit for a companion or to be alone and am a burthen to myself and every body round me—The very air I breathe seems to poison me yet I cannot endure the idea of taxing every body for my comfort so that suffer suffer suffer is the order of the day and nothing but opium affords relief at night you may judge what a delightful companion I am and what prospect there is of my enjoying my proposed visit if this continues—George has almost entirely recovered the use of his Arm but I think he has lost his spirits very much and is much more serious and silent than he used to be—He will I hope be happier in Boston and you must prepare for your trial which I rather think is to be the next effort as there are already strong symptoms of a plan of attack and you will be called upon chiefly to guard  the breast work in repelling the first advances—George fancies himself cured but it is far from the case and she knows very well how to provoke him by making you the theme of her conversation—Adieu Give my love to all and believe me your affectionate Mother

					L C A.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 27 July 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					Washington 27 July 1823

				You are right my Dear Charles to go Quincy for a few days to restore your health a little before the vacation and I am glad to hear that you have adopted the resolution although it may probably lose you a few marks on Mr. Hedge’s and other Lists—Your Brother George has just had a very dangerous illness the crisis of which passed last Eveng. and he is pronounced so much better to day we now hope for his speedy recovery—He has had an inflamatory sore throat or rather Quincy from which he suffered most severely until the Abcess broke. Pandora seems to have opened her box for the  especial benefit of my family just now for all the evils fall at once—I wrote you that Anthony and Ellen are about to leave me—Poor Charles is dead and Sam is sick—You can therefore imagine how difficult it will be for me to moveI note your remark concerning College Scholars but you must recollect that profound learning generally indicates worldly ignorance and not despise that which you perhaps are too young to understand—I have been up the greater part of the two last nights and feel so stupified I can scarcly write at all—Who is Elizabeth going to stay with in Philadelphia? I have never heard any thing about it—You complain much of poor John and so do I for he never writes to me—but he cannot go to Cambridge as that is part of his punishment as Dr. Kirkland writes to Mr. A—Mr Pomeroy who lately called on your father says your Grandfather has not been so well this two years or so strong as at present—Your father will begin his journey probably on the 15th of next Month and will go on without stopping so that you may expect him from the twentieth to the  twenty second—If I do not go on I shall hope to hear from you very often but on this subject nothing is yet decided—When does your vacation begin? what do you complain of? and how do you manage yourself? Write me fully and take care of yourself if you love your Mother

					L. C. A.—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 3 August 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 3 August 1823

				Your Letter my dear John gave us great uneasiness on your Grandfathers account and we feel very anxious lest the violence of the shock should have injured his health. We hope to hear from you frequently and that your Letters may be welcomed as harbingers of good instead of ill news for the future—I propose to leave this City on the 14 as your father wishes me to travel in the Carriage I shall probably be with you by the last of the Month and it is not impossible but that your father may arrive before I do—The billious fever is appearing here with unusual violence and I much fear we are about to have a dreadful SeasonPoor George has had a very dangerous fit of sickness and still looks very ill—His father has granted ALL his wishes but his spirits are very low—I trust the Climate of Boston will restore his health which has never recovered the shock occasioned by the breaking of his arm which although now quite well still retains a stiffness that makes him look very awkward and occasions him much mortification—You must not notice this when we arrive as it always wounds his feelings and makes him unhappy—The President was siezed with a fit yesterday in which he lay two hours and there was a great alarm in the City—he is much recovered to day and is likely to get quite well over it in a few days—Present my love and duty to your Grandfather and remember me to the family. love to Charles and yourself, from your Mother

					L C A.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 6 August 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					Washington 6 August 1823

				In answer to your last my Dear John I can only say that if the accomodations are so suitable and the price so reasonable as you say at the Exchange I should most certainly prefer them to any others but you know that your father is particular on this point and I wish you to ascertain exactly before I come so that we may decide immediately after our arrival—There will be your father myself Ellen George and Joseph—We most likely shall not want them for a week after; which will be about the eighth of September and even then I cannot say for how long Perhaps you had better write to New York and let me know I expect to arrive there on the twentieth and then to visit Mrs. de Wint for a couple of days and on my return meet your father and cross together to Providence—If I should wish to engage them directly I will let you know by Letter from New York in answer to yours—We are most happy to learn that your Grand father has got so well over his accident and hope soon to him quite well—Present my affectionate duty—At last my family are all pretty well as is also your affectionate mother

					L. C. Adams.


Title: To John Adams from William Cranch, 6 August 1823
From: Cranch, William
To: Adams, John

					Dear Sir
					Alexa. D.C. 6. Aug. 1823.

				Accept my thanks for your kind letter of the 10th. of March last, and for all your other Kindnesses to me, to my parents, & to my sister; and believe me most sincerely, respectfully & affectionately, your grateful & obliged nephew

					W. Cranch.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 8 August 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					My Dear Charles
					Washington 8 August 1823

				Yours of the 30th. came to hand yesterday and I feel very uneasy concerning the fever you mention, and advise should it encrease, that you quit the College and return to Quincy—I hope however that it will subside, and that there will be no danger—I recommend you however at any rate, to get some good vinegar, and wash your hands and face with it two or three times a day, and sprinkle it about your room—Concerning the great question, we hear nothing of it here but from the Newspapers, and they wear themselves out for want of notice—You did right in making the bet if it was necessary, but the best way is to avoid the subject altogether; more especially as General King boldly asserts here, that your father will not have five votes through the Eastern States—I again declare that I am perfectly indifferent on the subject—Your fathers merit and services, entitle him to it; but in point of happiness we are better without it—It is an affair of the people, and we have nothing to do but to await patiently their fiat, which will be right either way; as they are the best judges on the subject—I am afraid our visit will be ill timed if the old Gentleman has workmen in the house—I cannot imagine what contrivances you allude to; but I  hope it is nothing which will stamp the morbid sense of growing dotage, and leave an unpleasant memorial to the future race—Vain and thoughtless mortals that we are, our vanity and pride is shocked at the decay of nature in others, which we ought hourly to anticipate in ourselves—but there is something painfully aweful in the prostration of a great and powerful mind, which rouses all our sensibilities, and leads us almost to prefer annihilation, or that quiet Sleep which ne’er can be disturbed—You complain of the shortness of my Letters—The cacoêthes Scribeni, has not been on me for sometime past, and I cannot write unless the sudden inclination prompts—My mind seems to have become perfectly barren and sterile, and the ill weeds which overrun it have destroyed the little capacity which it once possessed, of covering a sheet of paper with studied nonsense and all that is left is the power to assure you of the love and affection of your Mother

					L. C. Adams

					I set out on my journey this day week the 14th—and expect to find you at Quincy when I arrive which will be about the first of next Month—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Mary Catherine Hellen Adams, 14 August 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Mary Catherine Hellen

					Baltimore 14 August 1823

				We have arrived without accident after a pleasant journey in this City my Dear Mary and safely deposited Robert who behaved like a Hero and required no counsel as Mr. Frye seems to have stamped his Lessons very powerfully on his mind as well as on his affection—I write to tell you that Anthony is to let Mr. Frye have your Uncle’s Tea Table and that he is to pay Elizabeth her full Month and I beg you to see that the flesh brush for Georges Arm is passed packed up in Mr. Adams Trunk—We had a charming ride and met with a Mr. Mitchell who supposing I was speaking of Mr. A. when I was talking of Mr. Sparks came out with the most ardent panegyric about your Uncle which surprized me very much and forced me to say that it was Mr. Sparks I had alluded to—When we reached Waterloo I found Mr. Proud of Baltimore who immediately recollected me and announced himself to the great astonishment of Mr. Mitchell who apologized on entering the Carriage assuring me had he known who I was he could never have made observations which must have appeared fulsome although the very opinion was founded upon the of the superiority of his the object of his praise—This Gentleman was very polite during the whole way and at parting I requested should he visit Washington he would call that I might have the pleasure to introduce him to my husband—Mr Parish and Doctor Catbush are to dine with and we start again at five o’clock—God Bless you and my best friend—Love to all

					L. C. Adams.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Mary Catherine Hellen Adams, 15 August 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Mary Catherine Hellen

					My Dear Mary
					Wilmington 15 August 1823

				I write you again a few lines to beg that you will contrive to send the red Morocco  belonging to the Carriage in your Uncles Trunk if they can be laid at the bottom, without taking too much room and to have Georges Umbrella tied outside of it as he forgot to bring it. Do not make a mistake I mean the leathers that fasten into the sides of the Carriage to keep out the air—We have come this far without any accident and expect to get to Chester to night—All send love to you and beg you to give where due—Ever Yours

					L. C. A.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Mary Catherine Hellen Adams, 17 August 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Mary Catherine Hellen

					Borden Town 17 Augt 1823

				I am ordered to write to you immediately by the family here to tell you that you must come on by the first favorable opportunity and that they will be mortally offended by your refusal—I advise you by all means should you hear of any body coming to join their party and come immediately to Mrs. St—— at Philadelphia when Elizabeth and one of the young men will meet you and escort you out you must however write a few days before at what time you expect to arrive—If Mr. & Mrs. Thompson come on you can come with them—All well in a great hurry

					L C A


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to John Adams, 20 August 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, John

					My Dear John
					New–York 20 August 1823

				I write to announce our safe arrival at this place from whence we propose to start on a visit of two days to Mrs. De Wint this afternoon to return on Friday night to meet your father and proceed in the Steam Boat on Saturday afternoon to Providence where I presume we shall remain until Monday Morning—As the Horses are very tired it is probable we shall take a Stage to Quincy and see you all on Monday night a little after Tea time—I write now that I may not take the family by surprize Your Letter is this moment put into my hand and I send this in the hope that you will receive it before we arrive at Providence and meet us with your Uncle according to your intention on Sunday Eveng.Love to all from your Mother

					L C Adams.


Title: From Christopher Hughes to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, August 1823
From: Hughes, Christopher
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					August 1823

				Anigma by Mr. Canning:There is a word of Plural number,Foe to peace, and tranquil slumber;From, any word you chance to take,By adding S. You plural make;But if to this   word, You add an S,Strange is the metamorphosis;Plural is plural, then no more,And Sweet, what bitter was before.Solution—Though bitter cares soft slumbers seldom meet;Yet, by some loved caress, they’re rendered sweet.One Morn from the Town éloignéeI wandered in the Bois de Soigneés;Gallanted by Columbia’s  pride;Who moved attentive by my side;Discussing, criticising, scanning,The Lines above of Premier Canning;He said to me, in walk thus rural,“Cut cares & cultivate its Plural.”

   (that’s Me; Jc!)
N.B. The last is the versification, of a Billet doux, by Col. Rushbrooke; The Father of a Young Lady; to whom, I sent, at her request, the above Relics, from one of my English papers; in my Billet, I counselled Miss Augusta, to “Cut cares & cultivate its plural.”—
				C. HughesI hope Mrs. Adams will find some relief & refreshment, by the perusal of this harmless trifle, after sending me decent newspapers.Mrs: Hughes if she were here, would unite with me, in expressions of the truest esteem & respect, with which, I have the Honour to be, &c, &c, c.C. Hughes


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Mary Catherine Hellen Adams, August 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Mary Catherine Hellen

					August 1823

				The picture you enquire for my dear Mary is in one of  little boxes in the Wardrobe in my chamber—I give all the rights to my friend Mary that she chuses and make her over to Mr A——. till I come—and if she wishes it he is perfectly welcome to see her dans mon litI’ll answer your Letter  tomorrow Mrs. Sumpter promised some letters for your Uncle speak to de Menon and Sr Rudic—love to all

					L C A—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Mary Catherine Hellen Adams, 9 September 1823
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Mary Catherine Hellen

					Boston 9 September 1823

				I write you a very few lines to tell you that I have seen your Brother that he is delighted with his situation and is more improved than I can express. He is now at Quincy with my boys and as much at home as either of them—Mr Lee offered to take your Shawl and Veil which I hope you will like as well as the handkerchief—I will answer the questions of Miss Mease when I arrive at Borden Town which I expect to do in the second week in October—As to what you say of your Aunt I can only answer that you are so in the habit of behaving shamefully that I am not at all surprized at the charge. had you acted with propriety towards Mrs. Hopkinson you would have had no trouble on the subject—You are your own Mistress and can go home  with Mrs. Thompson and remain a year with Mrs. Frye if you like it I shall make no sort of objection and you can use my house as a convenience whenever it suits you—The ties that exist between us are of so brittle a nature it will require very little to break them to pieces—Present my best respects to the family and be grateful for their kindness so prays your Aunt

					L. C. A.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Ward Nicholas Boylston, 11 September 1823
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Boylston, Ward Nicholas

					My dear Sir.
					Boston 11. September 1823

				Mindful of the very kind invitation of Mrs Boylston and of yourself, and of our own earnest inclination and promise, Mrs Adams and I propose to visit you at Princeton the next week—we hope to reach your house on Friday the 19th. and to pass the Sunday with you—The only intreaty which I permit myself to make of you, is that you will receive us as children of your own family, to the exclusion of all notice of us, other than of the many friends, who from this quarter avail themselves in like manner of your friendly hospitality—I regret that my father’s infirm state, will prevent him from going with us.I am faithfully and affectionately yours

					John Quincy Adams


Title: From Susanna Boylston Adams Clark Treadway to Alexander Bryan Johnson, 13 September 1823
From: Treadway, Susanna Boylston Adams Clark
To: Johnson, Alexander Bryan

					Dear Sir,
					Quincy Sepber. 13th 1823

				As it is a long time, since I have received a communication from any member of your family, and as their silence is, as implausible as it is painful, I am anxious to have it explained. my own letters, have remained so long unanswered, that I have become almost weary of writing. Since the arrival, of my Uncle’s family, from Washington, we have had few leisure moments, the house has been thronged with company, and our time is constantly occupied. At present, public, and private attention has been arrested, by the explosion of the long threatened Noise, which is to blow up all Mr. Adam’s claims to the next Presidency. I allude to the correspondence, between my Grand Father, and the late William Cunningham, which has just made its appearance in print. these letters were written under the strictest injunctions of secrecy; they disclose, the real characters of many Individuals, whom the public have been accustomed to idolize, and my Grand Father, never intended to wound the feelings of their connections, by a disclosure. this Mr. Cunningham, in a fit of Insanity, destroyed his own life, and the letters, have fallen into the hands, of the political Enemies of both Father & Son, and they have given them to the world, perfidiously, violating the engagements of fidelity, which were made, at the period of the correspondence. It is said, the public are already disgusted, with this breach of confidence, and that, the effects resulting from the disclosure, will be totally different, from what has been anticipated by the Crawford party. I send you a Newspaper, with the first number of the “Remarks upon the Correspondence” the writer, has enclosed, two numbers to my Grand Father, “with the sincere hope, that the pain, which cannot, but have been occasioned, by gross breach of trust, in the publication of his private letters, may be in a great degree, diminished, by the veneration, which it will call forth, for the greatness of his public character, and the anxiety which it will disclose, for the happiness of his remaining years.” If you have not seen, the pamphlet I can procure one for you, two thousand copies are already in circulation, at a dollar a piece, and it will probably go through a Second Edition. the “Remarks” I will send you as they appear, if you would like to read them.We are all well, except myself, who am suffering with the Influenza. My best love to all your family, and affectionate remembrance, to your father, and Mother.Very Sincerely yours

					Susan  B Clark


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Harriet Welsh, 19 September 1823
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Welsh, Harriet

					Quincy 19 Septr 1823.

				I pray you in presenting my respectful & affectionate regards to Mr & Mrs Bailey to assure them of the regret that I feel in the inability to avail myself of their friendly invitation & in the loss of the satisfaction which I should have derived from a visit to them. It is now uncertain whether I shall be able to go at all to Portland; & certain that if I do, I shall not go further nor be more than one day there. I flatter myself however that my visit to them will only be postponed & made at a time of less hurry & more leisure.I am ever faithfully Yours—


Title: To John Adams from Nathaniel Adams, 20 September 1823
From: Adams, Nathaniel
To: Adams, John

					Honored & much respected Sir
					Portsmouth Septr. 20th 1823

				What apology can an intire stranger make for intruding himself upon you? I have the honor of bearing the same family name but do not know that I am descended from the same stock. A desire of getting some information respecting my ancestors has induced me to give you this trouble; and as I have been informed that my progenitor, who came to this country, but whose christian name I am ignorant of, settled in Braintree, I thought it probable that you could give me the information I wished. He had three sons, if not more, Hugh, who graduated at Harvard College in 1697 and afterwards settled in the ministry at Durham in this state. John, who settled in Nova Scotia, and Matthew, who settled in Boston and whom Doctor Franklin mentions in his life. Matthew was my grandfather; he had four sons; William, Matthew, John and Nathaniel, my father. I wish to ascertain the Christian name of my great grandfather, the time he came to this country, whether any of his relations came with him, or at any other time, what part of England he came from, what employment he followed in this country, and when & where he died.You will have the goodness to excuse my addressing you on this subject; and if you will take the trouble to give me the information requested, or any other particulars which may be within your knowledge relating to my ancestors, you will confer a particular favor on / Honored Sir / your most obedient / humble Servant

					Nathl. Adams


Title: From John Quincy Adams to George Washington Adams, 1 October 1823
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, George Washington

					My dear Son.
					Quincy 1. October 1823.

				I have constituted and appointed you my Agent and Attorney, for the management of my property in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, excepting that in the town of Quincy, and for the transaction of my private business; for which I hereby give you full authority, subject to the instructions herein contained.The following is the specific property, which I commit to your care.1. House in Court Street Boston2. House in Hancock Street. do.3. House in Nassau Street N. 1.—The Corner.4. House in Nassau Street N. 2. Adjoining.5. House in Nassau Street—N. 3. In three small Tenements.6. A Pew, in Brattle Street Meeting House—N.7. Stock in the State Bank.8. Middlesex Canal Shares—329. New–England Insurance Company—55 Shares at $100: each10. Fire and Marine Insurance Company 26 Shares at $5 each11. Mutual Insurance Company—Five Policies.12. Boylston Market Association—Twelve Shares at 13. Neponset Bridge—Shares.14. Braintree and Waymouth Turnpike Shares.The Houses in Boston are all under Leases—They and the Stock in the Middlesex Canal have hitherto been in the charge of our friend and Relation, Mr Edward Cruft, who will give you every information necessary concerning them, and with who you will freely consult upon every occasion when you may need advice, for the discharge of your Trust—The five Policies at the Mutual Insurance Office, are upon the houses in Boston—Each of the Policies is for seven Years, and they expire at different times to which you will pay due Attention, that they may be duly renewed.You will attend regularly the Meetings of Stockholders, of all the incorporated Companies, of which I am a member and one of the proprietors; and you will carefully inform yourself as far as their regulations authorise, of their condition and Circumstances: of the Laws of their incorporation, and the management of their Affairs.You will receive the Rents, of the Houses, and the Dividends upon the several Stocks, and you will deposit in the branch Bank of the United States at Boston, all the monies that you shall receive for me and as my Agent—Opening an Account there, in that character—You will draw by Checks thence all the monies that you shall be required to pay on my account; and at the end of every quarter, from this day, will inform me by Letter of the balance on that Account.You will keep a regular Book of Accounts, of your Agency, and a separate Letter Book, in which you will keep copies of all your Letters relating to your Agency of my Affairs.Your Compensation will be, a Commission of five per Cent upon all the monies proceeding from the Rents and dividends that you may receive and deposit in the Bank; and five per Cent on the payment of the same for my account and according to my directionsYou will pay to my father 250 dollars at the end of every quarter, taking his receipt therefor. And when Mr Stuart’s portrait of him is finished, you will pay him. Have it then neatly framed, and keep it subject to my directions.You have already received Powers, to vote, and receive dividends for me, at the State Bank—I now deliver to you a General Power which might perhaps render any other unnecessary—But I have added special Powers, for the Middlesex Canal, the Fire and Marine, and Mutual Insurance Companies, the New–England Insurance Company, The Boylston Market Association, and Neponset Bridge, and the Braintree and Weymouth Turnpike—These are to be deposited at the offices of the several Corporations as your vouchers for acting in my name and behalf.You are also to pay to Miss Louisa C. Smith 18 dollars quarterly,  commencing on the 1st. of November next.I am your affectionate father.

					John Quincy Adams


Title: From John Quincy Adams to George Washington Adams, 4 October 1823
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, George Washington

					My dear Son.
					Boston 4. October 1823.

				I leave with you one thousand Dollars to be deposited in the Bank, and applied to the payment of a subscription which I have promised, for the Establishment of a Professorship of Astronomy, and the erection of an observatory at Cambridge—I authorize you to make the subscription in my name as my Agent, and to pay the money for me in such manner as may be directed by the subscribers.You will converse with judge Davis upon this subject, to whom I have communicated my views relating to it—And you will with the consent of the subscribers attend their Meetings, and inform me from time to time of the progress of the business.Your affectionate father

					John Quincy Adams.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to George Washington Adams, 5 October 1823
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, George Washington

					N. 1.My dear George.
					Princeton 5. October 1823.

				I now enclose you a Letter for George Davis, which you will deliver to him—The subscription as I told you is conditional to be paid only, unless a sum of (I think 50000) Dollars should be subscribed before the first of January next and deposited in Bank—If you are admitted to attend the Meetings, I shall expect you will give me an account of the proceedings and of the progress of the object, from time to time—I declined taking the lead in the Subscription—But my name is to be put down, whenever President Kirkland and Judge Davis shall think proper—I have it much at heart, and hope you will give as much attention to it, as your situation will render proper.I had a pleasant ride in the Stage, and arrived here about five O’Clock. I found Mr & Mrs Boylston well, and need not tell you how kindly I have been received—I told Mr Boylston of my injunction to you, which I now repeat of cultivating his friendship and kindness—He still intends returning to Jamaica Plains the 20th. of this Month.Your affectionate father

					J. Q. Adams.

					You must send me copies of this Letter, and of that to Judge Davis now enclosed.