Title: Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody to Abigail Adams, 3 July 1797
From: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw
To: Adams, Abigail

            Atkinson July 3d 1797

          Health to my Sister, under a more fervid Sun, than that to which she has hitherto been accustomed. Yes! I most ardently wish you this most needfull blessing, without which all others must be tasteless, even Friends a burden, & grandeur painful.—
          I hope Queen Mab has told me a falsehood. She came last thursday night in her airy Chariot, drove directly upon my heart, presenting you to me, laying upon a sick Bed, very ill— I awoke, chid the impertinent Hag, & prayed she might bring me more welcome news.
          The distressing, & solemn Scenes to which you were called, just as you were leaving Quincy, the variety of duties devolved upon you, & the many necessary preparations for your Journey all centering in

you, made me extremely anxious that even your magninimity would scarcely be “sufficent for these things”; but I am happy to hear you got safe to your best Friend, your earthly treasure.—
          I felt a Satisfaction that if death must enter the dwellings of my Sisters, the melancholly bereavements were before you left home— It must be a great comfort to both Families; particularly to the President whose filial affection has been an honourable, & distinguished trait in his Character.— How must it serve to meliorate his grief, that in his absence, you could prevent the asking Eye, smooth the pillow of age, soften the bed of Sickness by the most solicitous attentions, & pay the last respect to his worthy much valued Mother— I believe in truth it may be said, that your filial affection “for a while, has kept a Parent from the Sky.” Yet we find that no attentions, no arm can avert the fatal stroke, the undistinguishing hand of Death, reaps not only the head that is white with the blossoms of age, & the Shock of corn that is fully ripe in its season, but cuts down also, the early flower, e’er it reaches the meridian of Life— a recent instance in the death of our dear Mary— She had not those strong attachments which bind so many of us to earth, yet life was sweet to her; though not so alluring as if she had been in more prosperous, & agreeable circumstances— Her date was short, yet she had experienced many disappointments. Her extreme sensibility rendered her an easy prey to misfortune, & she felt its wounds with peculiar poignancy. Her amiable deportment, & the virtues of her heart will be held in pleasing remembrance, & her death will (I hope) be improved by the near relatives, as shall terminate in their future felicity—
          The other day I received a letter from my good Sister Cranch which furnished my mind with an abundance of materials for pensive contemplation— It informed me that her Sons Situation at Washinton was not so flattering as he expected, I have for sometime been fearful of it— I hope his prospects will brighten— I have often wished he had never left Haverhill, but he thought he was secure, quitting an uncertainty, for a certainty, so short sighted are we. He thought it the “tide of his affairs,” & considered it as an absolute duty to leave us, & this ought ever to solace his mind, & preclude remorse, or reproach— He has good abilities, & an excellent education, & is capable of rising, & making an handsome figure in his profession— his Wife, & friends have that to encourage, & comfort them— I believe Mr James Greenleaf has drawn into his Vortex the whole of the Family, not a connection I fear has escaped— I pity

Mr John Appleton of Salem, from affluence, reduced in the decline of life to almost penury.— The unfortunate, amiable John Greenleaf, & our Lucy’s fair prospects all blasted— When I look around, & see the inevitables of life, that one event happeneth to the wise, & the unlearned, the virtuous & the vicious, which no exertions, or knowledge of ours could prevent, my heart often sighs responsive to the sage adage, that all is vanity, & vexation of Spirit, that man is born to trouble as the sparks fly upwards, & that all beneath the Sky is marked with this humilating Ensignia—fleeting, & unstable—
          Mr Payson, & Johnstone of Haverhill are confined to their houses for debt— I am grieved for mrs Seargent as Mrs Payson is the only child she has left— But those persons whose mode of living exceed their anual income, subject themselves to mortifications, & canot be just, or honest— General Peabody has been gone to the southward for many months— It is an unfavorable circumstance for our family, for he has more generosity than all the rest of the parish— Mr Peabody was appointed to preach the Election Sermon at Concord, he & his Daughter went— I believe I should have accompanied him, if my dear Abby had not been sick with the scarlet fever, & she had not recovered so that I dared to leave her— It is a terrible disorder— It took off her skin as if a fire had passed over her— She was very good to take what was proper, through the goodness of a kind providence she is now injoying fine health—& the rest of our family— William has written to me that he has still been troubled with the head ake but otherways well— how he must miss his dear, more than kind uncle, & Aunt— Sister Cranch says they are solitary without you— I fully believe it—& poor Betsy feels the want of your, & Her Sisters society— Mr Peabody has been sent for by concord Church to consult, about their affairs— Mr Evans has said he would not stay—& they have not desired him to tarry the alternative is now, that he must go—& for nothing but whims— I believe he will repent it all his days— He say the court house is not high enough, they will not get a Bell, & there is not literary characters sufficent for him to dwell among &cc, now if he could quit all trouble by leaving the ministry it would be a charming thing—but we poor mortals have no exemption—the interdict is irrevocable
          Could I write politicks with as good a grace as my Sister, I would tell her that this state is quite fedral, that is to say friends to Order, government, & the liberties of a People—that they speak higly of the Presidents speech, firmness, integrity, &cc— But if I may tell you without giving Offence, I would mention a remark I have heard

made upon his Composition, that his periods were too long, that his mind could contain a concatenation of Ideas much better than those inferior Persons who perused them, & that his Sentiments were so excellent that they should be obvious to every one, that even those “who run, might read”—
          When I can get resolution enough to set pen to paper I never know when to leave it— If my letter was not so long, I would not trouble you with such bad writing, but now I have not courage to copy it, & if I do not send it to Haverhill immediately I shall lose the chance of sending it by Mr Livermore who has had a Son here at School, more than a year, & told me he should be happy to do me the favour of conveying a letter to you—
          Betsy Quincy is reaping the benefit of your good counsels, & maternal tenderness, as well as myself, I have a comfort in her good temper, I think it improves every day— She begs you & her Uncle to accept of her best, & most dutiful regard—
          Let your candor excuse every error / you may see in your affectionate / Sister—

            Elizabeth Peabody

          Mr Peabody & daughter presents his respects to the President, & yourself—


Title: Abigail Adams to William Cranch, 5 July 1797
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Cranch, William

          my Dear sir
          Philadelphia July 5th 1797

        I received your favour of June 26th, and rejoice with you in the Birth of an other son, and in the safety and Health of Mrs Cranch, to whom be so kind as to present my Regards.
        I have shewn your Letter to the President, and he desires me to tell you, that he would not have you on any account, be the least detered from persueing any line of buisness which shall appear eligible to you, or to your Friends, out of delicacy to his station, and that if you will risk the “Goads and stings which patient merit from the unworthy take” He is too old a veteran to be driven from his post by squibs; Faction is determind to follow the Station with calumny and slander, but he has too good an opinion of the Virtue firmness and Patriotism of his Countrymen to believe that they will ever forfeit those qualities, or easily relinquish their independance, upon that Ground he stands. if the Arts and Machinations of our foes, sap and undermine that, he would not wish to continue a conspicuous Actor upon so disgracefull a Theatre.
        Whether becomeing the Editor of a paper, may in the end, prove as advantageous to you, as returning to the practise of the Law, is a question which I am unable to determine. my own opinion is that a daily paper would not succeed in Boston, as it must depend chiefly upon the Town for its support. it was tried this spring and fail’d perhaps oweing to the Character of the Editer, who was a banished Irishman of Revolutionary principles, Burk by Name.

        Russels paper has been degenerating some time. Edds has laid down his, and the Chronical would not long survive, if it did not live upon Faction, and some aid which it receives from the real Friends of Government who take it, to read what is calld, both sides. there is one paper more, publishd in Boston calld the Mercury which is Federal, and well conducted, but I do not know any paper publishd in the united states, in so high repute as mr Websters of N York. a well conducted paper, publishd twice a week might succeed in Boston. it is of real importance at this Eventfull period and crisis of our publick affairs, that the people should not be deceived, and led blind fold to their own destruction.
        They all know what cannon Ball, and Hostile Armies mean, but the Arts of deception and seduction may be practised a thousand ways, and through an infinate variety of channels, unseen and unknown, except to those who are more immediatly connected with the Government, as a late, and recent transaction will convince you as soon as it is publishd; and will end in an expulsion it is thought of a Senator, by the senate, and of impeachment by the House. I hope it will have this salutary effect, to convince the Well meaning but misinformd; that the President is no respecter of Nations, when their views run counter to the independance and prosperity of America. those Who represent him otherways believe not a word of their own assertions. they are chiefly hireling writers from Foreign Nations with which this city abounds. I inclose to you in confidence the latest Letter of an absent Friend of ours. mr Webster has publishd it in his paper, but with several inaccuracies. you are at liberty to publish it, in the Washington paper with the corrections, as however from the Minerva of July 3d
        one of the commissioners of the Federal city, mr Scott dinned with us, this week. he appears a solid, sensible, well informd, & well disposed Man. I made some inquiries of him respecting you; which he answerd much to my satisfaction; amongst others, I asked his opinion, whether he thought you would succeed in the practise of the Law there? he replied that he never knew a Gentleman of mr Cranchs industery, and abilities fail, with a steady perseverence, that speaking was very necessary towards obtaining a reputation at the Bar.
        If my dear sir upon mature consideration of the subject, you should think it best to go into the practise of the Law: where you are now known, and as I am assured much esteemed and respected,

your uncle desires me to tell you that he will Lend you two Hundred dollors to purchase you such Books as you may be in immediate want of, that you shall take your own time to repay him. if you wish to have Books purchased here, upon making out a List, mr Malcomb who is secretary here to the President, & Studied Law with mr Adams at N york, will do the best he can in the purchase of them for you. I should with the rest of your Friends rejoice to have you in Boston, but I fear to have you quit what may be considerd a certainty, for an uncertainty, where a considerable stock is also required to commence buisness—
        I yesterday received a Letter from your Mother who with the rest of the Family were well. I have inclosed to you the original Letter which I mentiond. you will return it to me by the next post.
        I am my Dear sir / Your affectionate Aunt

          Abigail Adams


Title: John Quincy Adams to Abigail Adams, 6 July 1797
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Abigail

          My dear Mother.
          Maassluys 6. July 1797.

        I am once more in the same pleasant situation as that which I described to you twenty months ago from Helvoetsluys. Nine days since, we left the Hague, and I believe you will think I have at least as much occasion for Patience and Philosophy as I had upon the former occasion.
        I am going to London, where I shall stay no longer than will be absolutely necessary, and from whence I intend to proceed directly to Lisbon. I am afraid it will be long before I shall have any further Letters from America. Even when I am fixed for any time to one spot my American correspondents are not very assiduous, and my frequent removes furnish an excuse, readily adopted for avoiding to write where it is unknown how to address.— Yet I am very sollicitous to hear from you; especially, as you are doubtless now at Philadelphia, and as I am anxious to hear how your health bears the residence of that City, and the mode of life to which you will be obliged to submit in it.
        I waited about two months in this Country for the arrival of Mr: Murray. After he came I thought it necessary to hasten my departure as soon as possible, and allowed myself only time to accompany him through the forms of his reception, and to introduce him as far as I was able to the current of affairs. I shall again be deprived of the same advantage at Lisbon. It will be the third time of my finding myself launched upon an unknown Ocean, without Pilot or compass. Coll: Humphreys will be gone before I can possibly arrive.

        If you should as I presume you will constantly reside at Philadelphia, I must address to you as to the most punctual of my correspondents, a request, which I despair of having executed by any other person. It is to send me some weekly newspapers, regularly by every vessel coming to Lisbon; a series of such kind of dispatches requires indeed a constant attention, which I know from experience, not to be very easy.— My brother Charles undertook to send us Webster’s Herald when we came from America; for which we were to send him the Leyden Gazette. We have faithfully done our part, and scarce a vessel has sailed for New York since we have been in this Country without bearing some Papers, and always the latest possible. We have received in return once in every four or five months a few of the Heralds, and generally six months old.— But Charles is in business, (I hope in great business) he is married, and has a child, and has so many other things to call off his attention that I have been perfectly ready to excuse and to account for his neglect of us. Indeed it is exactly the same thing with my friends at Boston.— I was to receive regularly the Centinel; and I think it has reached me to so late a date as March or April 1796.— In comparison with this, Charles really shines, for I think we have received his Heralds as late as September.
        I have for the last six months sent to my father one of the best Paris, daily newspapers. I have indeed constantly since my residence in Europe endeavoured to furnish him from time to time with newspapers and valuable or interesting publications; but I have not been able to accomplish this so much to my satisfaction as I should if I had been more settled, for although it is almost three years since I sailed from Boston, I have scarcely been a year at a time in the same place.— I now send the latest Paris Papers that I have received.
        Our situation with that Country is still equivocal, and dangerous. General Pinckney acts with great Prudence and Wisdom, and I am persuaded will do every thing possible in the disadvantageous situation in which he still remains. But there are many very wicked agents and many very bad Passions at work against the interest and the friendship of the two Nations.— With regard to the West India depredations, the Directory have published a Letter from Southonax and his brother robbers their Agents in which they freely declare that they had employed cruizers against American vessels, without authority, but because they wanted provisions, because the

Americans were ill-disposed, and because after the election of John Adams as President of the U.S. they concluded there would be a War between the two Countries.— The Directory have recalled those Commissioners, and their infamous piracies have not been unnoticed even in Paris. An investigation and scrutiny has been called for into the other hostile measures of the Directory: there is no doubt a strong party in France who disapprove of them, but they are afraid of nothing so much as of being too much in the right.
        Among those who call and think themselves our friends, and who are indeed sensible how unjustly the Directory has treated us, is Barbé-Marbois, a man well known in America, and now a very distinguished member of the Council of Antients. He has lately made a report relative to the expences in the department of foreign affairs.— It appears they are four or five times as great as they were in the most extravagant periods of the old Government.— And for all this augmentation of charges they have according to Marbois, got but a very contemptible set of negotiators abroad; among whom he has with equal Justice and Severity included their late Minister to the United States: “one of them (says Marbois) sent to a friendly nation will imagine he serves his Country by sowing distrust and suspicion between the government and the People. In order to acquire the reputation of being active and influential, he will expose two Nations united by their reciprocal interests, by benefits and by gratitude, to a fatal rupture: he will exert himself to sully the splendor of the fairest life, the eminent qualities of the greatest man, that our Century can offer to History and present to posterity; and even though he should not attain the end proposed, the minds of men, will nevertheless be alienated, and a double portion of wisdom will be necessary to bring them again together.”— So you see that even in the Capital of France, even in the sanctuary of their Legislation, a public and an eloquent voice is yet found ready to pay the tribute of justice to the character of Washington, and to reward with richly deserved contempt the reptile that would have shed its filth and venom upon such brightness.
        I will not promise you my dear mother to be a very good correspondent from this time untill I get settled at Lisbon. Perhaps the present contrary winds under which I labour are to be considered as advantages, as they give me time to make up for some future deficiencies.— Not that I intend them; but I have a sort of foresight that

I shall not devote enough of my time to my American correspondents, while in London.
        We have had an agreeable acquaintance with General Pinckney and his family, who for the last three months have generally resided at the Hague. He is himself a very pleasant and agreeable, as well as an able and well informed man. Mrs: Pinckney both in person and manners has considerable resemblance with you, and you can easily judge how much we have been pleased with her. They are great botanists, and the General has undertaken to make one of me; I have a better opinion of the master’s abilities, than of the scholar’s docility.
        I beg to be remembered affectionately to all our friends in America, and remain your ever affectionate and dutiful Son

          John Q. Adams


Title: Abigail Adams to William Smith, 11 July 1797
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Smith, William

            my dear sir
            Philadelphia July 11th 1797

          Mr otis will tell you all the News in this quarter of the Earth, where Wickedness abounds of all kinds. I hope however there may be found Rightous sufficient to save the city. we have a senator—you see by his Letter what he is capable of. the Government is not found sufficently strong to punish him according to his Demerrits, or he would not have been permitted to have escaped, nor do I think he would, if too great lenity had not lessned his Bonds—
          Congress are up— before they come again together, I think they will repent of not having left some powers in the hands of the executive of laying on an Embargo if it, was thought necessary. it certainly would not have been wantonly used. it may before, the meeting of congress, be found necessary to have past the Law Regulating the Armanent of private Merchantmen. many will Arm now contrary to Law, and without regulation. an Indiaman captured two Days since belonging to this place, and within the capes is a proof of our Embicility, and I hope of our Love of Peace, for some good ought to flow from so much evil as a counter balance.—
          We have had some very Hot weather which makes me anxious to get away. I was calld sudenly out of my bed this morning to John Brisler, who was taken in the night with the Cholori Morbus. he was fainted intirely away, and every appearence of death for half an hour— the child went well to Bed. he is come too, but I think him very dangerous
          We must get away from this Hot city—
          I inclose to you a post Note of three Hundred Dollors, with which I will thank you to take up a Note of Hand of mine to Genll Lincoln. mr Wells may give it to you if the Genll is not there. you will destroy the Note and write me only these Words—“I have tranacted the buisness you desired in the Way you directed,” as we may be absent When the Letter arrives. I do not desire any more should be said than that.
          My best Regards to mrs smith and Children Love to cousin Betsy—from your sincere Friend / and affectionate

            A Adams

          I wrote you last saturday concerning the carriage You will let me hear Soon. I put dr Tufts Letter in your care there is a post note in it


Title: William Cranch to Abigail Adams, 12 July 1797
From: Cranch, William
To: Adams, Abigail

            Washington July 12th. 1797

          I thank you, my dear Madam, for your obliging favr. of 5th. instant, and for the interest you take in my happiness. Upon further deliberation, I had, before the receipt of your Letter, renounced all ideas of returning to Boston, and had determined immediately to apply for admission to the Bar in this state. I shall for this purpose go to Annapolis on Monday, and as soon after my return from thence as possible I shall go to Philada. to transact some Business with Mr: Morris, and to procure such books as may enable me to begin without commiting any egregious blunders. Mr. Morris is about purchasing a library for his son William and has promised to procure one for me at the same time. If he should fail of doing it, I shall perhaps be glad to accept the kind offer of the President, for which, please to present him my grateful acknowledgements.
          I return you the letter and thank you for the Communication;—it is printed correctly in this days paper. The subject deserves the most serious consideration of every real American, and I hope will tend to open the eyes of those, who are themselves too simple and honest, to believe in the views of that restless nation.
          In every sentiment of respectful affection Nancy joins with your obliged & grateful Nephew

            W. Cranch.—

          We are all well.—


Title: Mary Smith Cranch to Abigail Adams, 13 July 1797
From: Cranch, Mary Smith
To: Adams, Abigail

          Quincy July 13th 1797

        I write my dear Sister with a hope that this letter will not find you in Philadelphia but as we have not heard that congress have risen I

would not have you without a line of information that we are all well & that your chambers are ready the mason has promis’d to white wash the house & mrs Porter is waiting for orders to clean for your reception I have been fearful for your health & that of the Presidents but I know that Being who has plac’d him in the exalted Station he Sustains can & will if he sees it best prolong his life & usefulness. he is a good as well as a great man & I have no fears for Such an one as a Scourge for the wickedness of the people he may be taken from us but no real evil can befall him—
        I fear there has been foul play at the Post offices cousen Louissa Says you have receiv’d Letters not cover’d to the President no Such ever went from our office no not one there came two Letters the other day & Several before for mrs Hunt & mr Tyrrel not frank’d & with Such a Postage that they have refus’d to take them out
        I thank you my dear Sister for the Ribbon tis very pretty if cousen Should me with a pair of half mourning gloves leather or silk which are good & will take them for me I Shall be oblig’d I cannot find any here good
        I hope Something may bring my son this way there are So many gone from the Bar that I do not see why he may not do in Boston as well as any where else & certainly can live as cheap it will be dreadful to me to have him Settle there I do not love a roling Stone I know the Proverbe but in this changable World things may turn up which may make a change eligable without verifying the proverbe— I am full of anxiety
        mr webster is wishing to establish a paper in Boston Similar to his own & wishes my son to engage with him he says tis very profitable to him & thinks it will in a little time become So to him at Boston— What do you think I am So affraid of new Scheems & yet Something must be done I can only Say heaven direct them I know So little myself
        please to give my most respectful Love to the President to cousin & all enqueing Friend good wishes—to yourself / all that is affectionate from your forever oblig’d / & grateful Sister

          M Cranch


Title: William Smith to Abigail Adams, 13 July 1797
From: Smith, William
To: Adams, Abigail

          Dear Madam.
          Boston. 13th: July. 1797.

        Your several favors of the 1st & 9th Ins. I have recd. & am much oblig’d to you for the inclosures. the situation of the United States is indeed very critical, but in my opinion, every day strengthens the Union of the people in favor of the government. the Treason of Blount will confirm the sentiments of many, that all nations are equally friends to us so long as their interest is benefited by it. it is generally suppos’d that Mr Blount’s plan was projected by a very different Interest. from British.— if we can keep clear from a rupture on the Mississippi I have no dobt the dispute will be of service to the Government. & unite us more generally in putting the country in a state of defence.— I hope the warm air of Philaa. will not injure the Healths of the President & yourself. we shou’d be happy of seeing you this way, but hope you will take frequent excursions from the noxious air of the City.— your Couchee will be soon compleated & I will send it by the first good oppertunity.— Cap. Carter arriv’d here this week from Jamaica he was taken by a French Privateer on his passage home. they took out his Mate & part of his people. left Cap. C. on board with 2 Hands. put on board 8 frenchmen. after they had been in possession 10 Days—the prize Master fell overboard by accident. Cap. C. immediately drove the Frenchmen below & retook his Brig & after 12 Days bro’t her in here. he has suffer’d great fatague but is in good health.—
        Mrs. S & my Sister join me in affectionate regards to yourself &, the President.—
        Yrs. Affecly

          Wm. Smith.


Title: Abigail Adams to John Quincy Adams, 14 July 1797
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John Quincy

          my dear son
          Philadelphia July 14 1797

        Gen’ll Marshal expects to sail tomorrow Several Days sooner than I expected, and the weather has been so very Hot, that I have not had resolution to touch my pen for several days past. you recollect what the Month of July is in this place, and how severely I feel, and suffer from the Heat.
        I wrote to you about a fortnight since by the British Packet, Captain Cathcart, but I am so hamperd that I cannot write you with the freedom I wish. I shall therefore send you some publick papers and some Pamphlets and leave you to make your own comments. you will see that an whole Host are rising up in formal array against your Country and that too surely your Prophesys become History.
        Mr W smith of south Carolina is appointed to Portugal, in your Room and will sail in the next week. your & my old Friend mr Gerry accepts his appointment, and will sail in a few days. amongst the papers inclosed you will find Some of your Friend and old school mate Bene Baches virtuous Auroras in one of which you will find remarks upon your mission to Berlin. a French production, all the writers in that paper are said to be foreigners, many of them fugitives from the Halter in their own Country, incendaries who kindle Flames where ever they go, and who for the peace of Mankind, might be very readily consignd to the Element they delight in, with their kindred Spirits you will find in Gen’ll Marshal a sensible upright honest Man you may be of great service both to mr Gerry and him by a free communication with them. by a pamphlet in which you will find a plot disclosed, you will see what Americans are capable of, but to your mortification, I am sure, too many instances occur within your daily observation.

        you will be pleased to learn that amidst this War of parties and Nations the chief Majestrate preserves his spirits and his fortitude unshaken, and that he sustains the burden of his office with patience and magninimity, that the people are alive to the injuries they sustain, but patiently wait the issue of the Mission Extraordinary— but from which, viewing the state of publick affairs, in all their various connections and concequences, I can form but faint hopes—
        I heard from your sister last week. she is at East Chester, and has been ever since last winter the col has been gone up with his Brothers to their new Lands for some time. I can say, She is a truly deserving woman whose lot is cast, not with the most fortunate of her sex—
        Your Brother is doing well in N york— Louissa who is by desires me to present her Love to you. I hope mr Murry is arrived long e’er this— my Letters have been lost. I have written you 4 different times of which Letters we have no acknowledgment—
        I am my dear son / with every sentiment of Maternal affection your Mother

          A Adams


Title: Charles Storer to Abigail Adams, 15 July 1797
From: Storer, Charles
To: Adams, Abigail

          dr Madam,
          Boston. 15th. July. 1797:

        Pardon my thus abruptly addressing you. I plead the occasion as my apology—
        I am just informed that Mr: Leonard Jarvis expects soon to quit his Office. The Office is considered as a decent livelihood. Were I seeking emolument for myself I might be diffident; but when soliciting for the Interest & happiness of a Parent, I am emboldened, & venture to presume upon your friendship & goodness on the occasion.— For the discretion, prudence, integrity & honor of the Candidate you will not require a voucher from so near a friend as myself—& to the President I hope it will be unnecessary; but allow me to say that for exactness & correctness in accounts none exceed him— May I request you to mention my father to the President—at

the same time presenting him my best respects— Tis said some application has already been made: I would hope how ever mine may not arrive too late—
        With sentiments of esteem & respect, I am, Madm: / Yr: much obliged friend / & humle: servt:

          Chas: Storer:


Title: Abigail Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 16 July 1797
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, Thomas Boylston

          My dear son Thomas,
          Philadelphia July 16 1797

        Tis expectation that make a Blessing sweet, says the poet. how sincerely sweet would it be to me to fold my dear Thomas to my Maternal Bosom in his own Native Land. I hope and wish, wish & hope that the Day may not be far distant.—
        This Day, the 14 of July I received by way of N york your kind Letter of April 7th, more than 3 months Since it was written, from your Brother no one of a later date than the 3 of April has arrived. I should suppose that your Brother was kept regularly informd of the various transactions of our Government. I regreet that there is reason of complaint, particuliarly as he is allowd on all hands to be one of the most industerous, able, and accurate ministers abroad.
        I have sent him some News papers and pamphlets. I could fill a volm if I thought my self at Liberty to enter into the details of politicks, that our Country is in danger, and perils, as saint Paul was, in Perils by sea in Perils by Land and in Perils from false Breathern is a melancholy truth. However Foreign Nations may deceive themselves by supposeing that the people are opposed to the Government, if affairs are brought to a crisis, they will find the spirit of America will not easily bend to a foreign yoke, and that the Faction who so loudly clamour, are a combination of Foreigners, joined

with some unprincipled Americans, but by no means, the Body of America.
        I shall not make any strictures upon the conduct of the Members of the last session of Congress. you will see by the various papers which I have cull’d, that these are the same parties, equally voilent, in existance now, as were under the former Administration. I hope however that the Government will stand the various shocks to which it is daily subject. we cannot expect to escape wholy when So many great and powerfull Nations are rending to peices
        Mr Munroe visited here, so did Mrs Munroe. I returnd her visit. she told me she saw you that you was very well & very lively— you will see that an entertainment was made for him, about 40 persons only attended. Congress were sitting. some of the voilents were there, and the vice President. the Man of the people was toasted.!
        Your Friends desire to be rememberd to you amongst the Number was the pretty miss wescot, who visited me
        I have sustaind the weather tolerably untill this week— I find I must quit the city.
        adieu my dear son / God send you a safe passage to your Native land prays your affectionate / Mother

          A Adams


Title: Abigail Adams to Mary Smith Cranch, 19 July 1797
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Cranch, Mary Smith

          my dear sisters
          Philadelphia July 19 1797—

        If the Compass by which my course is directed does not vary again through unavoidable necessity I shall sit out for Quincy next

week. we shall probably be 12 days in comeing. I shall want some preparation at Home. I will write to you from N york. Betsy wrote to her Mother to know if her sister Nancy was at home & that I should want her during my stay at Quincy
        The Hot weather of july has weakend us all. complaints of the Bowels are very frequent and troublesome. I received your Letter of 13 yesterday I have suspected unfair dealings in the post office for some time, tho I cannot say where the fault is. as to the Girls Letters I believe they were foolish enough to send them without any Frank. I received a Letter yesterday from your Son who was well, and expected, to come to Philadelphia soon on buisness. I fear I shall be away, but I shall write him to come & put up at the House the same as if we were here
        Let mrs Porter know that I should be glad she would have mrs Bass to clean up the House I hope it will be white washd first— the post will be gone if I do not close—
        yours affectionatly

          A A


Title: Joshua Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 19 July 1797
From: Johnson, Joshua
To: Adams, John Quincy

          Dear Sir
          Coopers Row. 19 July 1797.

        In consequence of what Mrs. Johnson tells me, had passed between you & her on Sunday, I am induced to believe that a matter of Delicacy on your part retards your Union with my Child. the uncertainty how long you may remain here, together with the shortness of my stay makes me ardently wish to see it compleated, do not then lose sight of personal happiness, by the supposition that the request made by her Mother (to make my House your Home) can possibly be attended with the slightest inconveniency, on the contrary, believe me that your acceptance (en Familli) of the small comforts we have to bestow, will diffuse general Joy & Delight through our little Circle. Any Embarassments you may […] attendant on your private business, will be easily obviated by

devoteing (should you prefer it) your Mornings or any part of the Day at your present aboade—
        I have been thus particular, in order to prevent your haveing an Idea that you will not be perfectly free from restraint, from the pleasure you will recive in takeing her, will be but Judged, my feeling, at parting with her, the goodness of your Heart, will lead you to believe, that being a Witness to her happiness during her stay here will in some degree tend to allevete the pangs of seperation. That those sentiments may be riciprocal is the sincerest wish of my. / Dear Sir / Your truly Affectionate

          Joshua Johnson

          P.S. If you have no Engagement I shall be happy to see you an hour before Dinner Tomorrow as I want to consult you on some affairs of my own


Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to Abigail Adams, 24 July 1797
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Adams, Abigail

          My dear Mother.
          London 24th: July 1797

        The journey which I made to Paris, towards the last of April was performed so hastily, that it was out of my power to give you any satisfactory account of it from thence, and since my return, preparation for departure from Holland has engrossed most of my leisure hours, so that I have only found time to give an imperfect sketch to my Father of the most material occurrences of that tour.
        The detail which I intended for you, is by no means so fresh in my memory as it was two months ago; indeed the greater portion of it would at this time be unseasonable, and I shall therefore content myself with a simple enumeration of the objects, which attracted my notice, during the short period of my residence in the Capital of the french Republic.
        The first visit of curiosity, that I made was to Sceaux a seat which formerly belonged to the Duke de Penthiévre. You doubtless saw it in all its glory, and will be sorry to learn that it has materially suffered since the Revolution. Every thing about it bears the marks of former splendor, strongly contrasted by its present deplorable appearance. Nothing remains of its beauty, but that for which it is indebted to nature. I will not distress you by a description of the barbarous ravages which were committed upon it, while the rage of destruction continued, but of all the Country seats in the neighborhood of Paris, this perhaps is the most damaged. Reincy, a Chateau of the Duke of Orleans, which I saw likewise, had the good fortune to escape. The interior of the house is pillaged like all the rest, but the grounds &ca: are still in good order. The place itself has lately been sold, and will probably recover its former appearance.
        I passed two days at the palace of Versailles, and was greatly delighted with every thing I saw. I never before had a perfect idea of magnificence. My time would not admit of going to Marli, but I went to St: Cloud and at the same time visited the porcelaine manufactory at Sevres. In most of these tours, I was accompanied by my friends Pitcairn & Rogers, both of whom were then at Paris.
        In the City, I endeavored to gain a sight of every thing worth a travellers curiosity, but many things unavoidably escaped me, though I was as diligent as possible.
        The National Museum, & Library, the Garden of Plants, the Louvre, the pantheon, the Luxembourg, the Thuilleries, Elysian

Fields, Wood of Bulogne, Bagatelle, Military School, field of Mars, Hospital of Invalids, & the Gobbelins, together with a considerable number of the public theaters were all visited and admired in their turns. The two Councils & the Directory were the last, though not the least objects of my notice. In my letter to my Father, I have particularly described the interview, which was procured me by Mr: Arnoux, with a distinguished character in the Government. The conversation which he addressed to me may appear strange, but I am persuaded he has a great respect for the character of the person to whom it referred, and I shall be disapointed if his voice, at least, is not in favor of an amicable settlement of our national differences. I presume not however to possess any infallible testimony of such a disposition on his part. He is a frenchman, and has high notions of the invincible & terrible Republic of which he is one of the heads. I wonder that it should escape their shrewd understandings, that an object of terror, can never be an object of love.
        Your old friend Arnoux treated me with great kindness & civility, and seemed to regret sincerely the misunderstanding which has arisen between our two Countries. He used frequently to say, that the french nation were lovers of justice, and disposed to shew it to others; but added he, you have heard the annecdote of a conversation which once took place between a french Ambassador & the English Minister of State, wherein the latter assured the former, that “if England had always done justice to other nations, she herself would long since have ceased to exist.” I was not displeased to find him reduced to such strange reasoning as this, in order to palliate the conduct of the french Government towards ours, but I could not help asking him, if the french Ambassador was satisfied with the reply of the Minister of State.
        As my journey was one of observation, I travelled in the public diligence, and think it much preferable to a private carriage, not for convenience, but for dispatch, and for the opportunity it affords of remarking the manners of the people, whom you occasionally meet in these public vehicles. I was fortunate in my companions, both going & returning, and was much amused by several little incidents which occurred on the road. The sentimental Journey was continually present to my mind, and I think I have now learnt to appreciate its accuracy. It is a very exact copy of a very laughable original.
        I took very few letters of introduction for Paris, and consequently saw but little private Society. I witnessed enough however to

discover the fascinating charm which operates upon strangers who visit Paris, of which I had previously heard so much, and knew so little. But I was not there myself long enough to form an attachment to their mode of living, and I left it with no regret, but that which arose from the apprehension of having seen too little of the people & their Country, to form an accurate opinion of them.
        The Theatres to which I devoted many of my evenings, were the greatest source of delight & entertainment. Nothing in my opinion can surpass the excellence of their Comic Actors, nor the grace & elegance of their Opera attitudes. Old Mr: Arnoux said to me, “My young friend, a young person sees too much there.” I forgot to mention that the day I dined with him, I met Madam de Ville, the daughter of the late M. de Challoux, who recollected my Father & brothers, and desired to be remembered to them. I am not certain that you knew her. She is now a widow with five children, her husband having been one of the victims of the Revolution. Mr: Arnoux himself was a year in prison during the reign of terror. The death of the Tyrant alone saved his life.
        I returned to the Hague towards the last of May; the beauty of the Country as it appears on the road, can hardly be described; even that part of Brabant and the frontiers of old France, which has been ravaged by the war, scarcely exhibits a vestige of damage or destruction, except within the walls of some towns. These indeed have suffered, & no length of time will probably ever repair them. The Country is fertile throughout, and the cultivation very high, scarcely an inch of land appearing to be neglected. Their approaching harvest bid fair to be abundant.
        Soon after my return to Holland, Mr: Murray arrived, and we began to prepare for departure. The family of General Pinckney being then at the Hague, made quite a Congress of American Ministers, and their similarity of views & opinions rendered our Society very pleasant during the remainder of our stay. Mr: & Mrs: Murray were introduced to several of our acquaintance, and will I think pass their time agreeably. I parted with regret from my friends in Holland, particularly those at the Hague, with whom for nearly three years I had lived upon terms of harmony. I shall always retain great regard for the Dutch people, and reflect with pleasure upon the time I passed in their Country.
        As I intend soon to write you again, in answer to your kind letters of Feby 21 & June 20, I shall now merely thank you for them, this

letter being only in payment of an old debt. You are the best and most punctual of our correspondents, & indeed almost the only one that has not ceased writing to me, altogether.
        Remember me affectionately to my father, and to all my Philadelphia friends, and believe me in constant love and duty / your Son

          Thomas B Adams.


Title: Mary Smith Cranch to Abigail Adams, 26 July 1797
From: Cranch, Mary Smith
To: Adams, Abigail

          Dear Sister
          Quincy July 26th 1797

        we have made every thing as ready for your reception as we can. but alass I fear we Shall not see you. I think it will not be possible under the present State of affairs for the President to leave with prudence the Seat of Goverment for So long a journey but I hope you will leave the city If you do not come you will be Sav’d the melancholy prospect of your ruin’d Barley field & distroy’d Garden. we had a fortnight Since Such a Storm of hail as your eyes never beheld it lasted about an hour it was attended with thunder lightning & a torrent of Rain with a violent wind. the hail Stones were between three & four inches round it thresh’d all the Barley broke the

corn, kill’d the vines & tore the cabbages & ever vegetable out of the ground all to peceis where ever it extended there is a hollow in our Farm from which was carried pailfulls of hail a week after to make punch with. it kill’d all my chickens & the bird lay thick in many places kill by it the windows on the west Sides of houses were broke all to peceis the Doctor will write you what he has had to do to repair yours
        I thank you my Sister for your kindness to my Son. he inform’d us of mr websters proposal. we knew not what to advise him I hope he will act prudently. I have advis’d him to open an office where he is immediately for he cannot come away Suddenly if his prospects here were ever So inviting he may be able then to judge what he can do if he Should think it best to stay washington is now at its lowest Stage I immagene at present his character I believe is establish’d there for honour & probity I know the President thought he did right to go there & I would wish him now not to do any thing which he Should think unadvisable I Should rely much upon his opinion
        what a Family of Blounts are there any more of them—
        Providence has Still an eye over us for good. more Blounts will be found out or I am mistaken— the V. P had no curiosity I think or he would not have taken himself of just as he did & tho tis customary to ask leave of absence before the rising of congress yet his doing it just as Bs trial was coming on did not look like the late V Ps doings—thats all— far be it from me to speak evil of dignitys—where there is really any—
        mr Cranch thanks you for the Pamplight— it exceeded in weight what a Postmaster has a right to receeve Post free, & he was charg’d three dollars & an half for it— I do not know if a President may not write Free upon any weight but a Postmaster cannot receeve any thing above a certain weight unless he can— mr Cranch is writing to the Postmaster Generall about it
        Jo Beal was buried yesterday he was in a dreadful Situation a mortification in both his Feet all the Toes on one Foot had been taken off & before he dy’d his whole Foot drop’d off
        he has been in terrible distress—& has left a numerous helpless Family unprovided for I beleive. […] Beals Black Tom was buried the day before he was drown’d a Sunday Washing himself in the water just below mr Careys—
        I had a Letter last week from sister Peabody She & her Family were well but Charles she Says is in a poor State of health

        I am concern’d about him— Cousen Betsy is at Weymouth the Post is come Love to the P. & Cousen from Your / truly affectionate Sister

          M Cranch


Title: John Quincy Adams and Louisa Catherine Adams to Abigail Adams and John Adams, 28 July 1797
From: Adams, John Quincy,Adams, Louisa Catherine
To: Adams, Abigail,Adams, John

            My dear and Honoured Parents.
            London 28 July 1797.

          I have now the happiness of presenting to you another daughter, worthy as I fully believe of adding one to the number of those who already endear that relation to you.— The day before yesterday united us for life. My recommendation of her to your kindness and affection I know will be unnecessary. My sentiment of her merit, will not at this moment especially boast its impartiality, but if there be as I believe an inseparable chain of connection which binds together all the domestic virtues, I have the strongest pledge that she, who has in an amiable and respectable family, adorned the characters of a daughter and Sister, will prove an equal ornament to that of a wife.
          In renewing to you, the assurances of my unalterable duty and affection, I would now join hers to them, but believe they will be

more acceptable to you from her own hand, remaining your ever faithful Son

            John Q. Adams.

          The day before yesterday by uniting me to your beloved Son, has given me a claim to solicit your parental affection, a claim I already feel will inspire me with veneration to pursue the path of rectitude, and render me worthy as deserving of your esteem and tenderness, as those who stand in the same relation, my pride would be severely wounded to yield the palm in the fulfillment of my duties either as wife or daughter, to be respected in these characters, and to meet the approbation of my Husband, and family, is the greatest wish of my heart— Stimulated by these motives (your affection the reward) will prove a sufficient incitement, never to sully the title of subscribing myself your, / Dutiful Daughter

            Louisa C. Adams


Title: Abigail Adams to Mary Smith Cranch, 29 July 1797
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Cranch, Mary Smith

          Saturday Morg. East Chester 29 July 1797.
          My Dear sister

        We leave this place this morning & hope to reach Home on fryday of the next week. I have written to mr smith to procure sundry articles for me in Boston which will require a Team to bring them to Quincy, & bags for oats will you be so good as to consult with mr Porter, and if mr Belcher can go to Town for them So as to get them up before we arrive I should be very glad. will you be so kind as to have some coffe burnt and ground, some Bread and cake made for me, and to be at our House on fryday when we hope to reach Quincy and if you should hear of any intention of company meeting us on the road, to accompany us to Quincy, I must beg of you to make Such arrangments of punch & wine as may be necessary. I have written to mr smith on the subject and he will inform you.

wine you can draw from the casks in the cellar Punch must be made by Gallons. you will procure spirit for the purpose, and in a Box in the North cellar which is naild up is some Jamaca Spirit, that with some Brandy will answer
        I believe it would be best to get Mrs Baxter to go to the House and assist in making Beds as she knows where my things are, better than any one else. the Matresses should be put on the Feather Beds, & two Beds put up in the new out Chamber for the Men servants. I have my two Grandson with me, but they can be provided for by some of my Friends if we cannot lodge them at first. we met at N york with so many unexpected things which we were not provided for, that I wish to have Some arrangments made now previous to our getting home particuliarly if we should meet company. you will find glasses &c enough. you will be so good as to have a table set in the dinning parlour, and every thing ready, to receive / Your truly affectionate / sister & Friends

          Abigail Adams


Title: Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody to Abigail Adams, 29 July 1797
From: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw
To: Adams, Abigail

          My Dear Sister
          Atkinson July 29th. 1797

        Your kind Letter which assured me of your welfare was a cordial to my heart. It came safe to hand, with its contents by Judge Livermore. The affectionate regard it evinced for me, & mine, might have overwhelmed an heart less accustomed to favours; accustomed, not callous I assure you, for esteem, love, & gratitude so often put in motion, fans the finer feelings, & makes them glow with unremitted ardor, & I am frequently so oppressed with such a sense of the unmerited beneficence of my Friends as to leave me drowned in tears, espicially when I consider how inadequate a return I can ever make.
        I feel myself under peculiar obligations to the President, & to you my Sister for thinking upon my Son for good. I wish he may be qualified in every respect for the office proposed. As to his capability of retention I think I can assure you, that he is not “loose of Soul,” but from a Child considered a Secret, as a sacred deposit & I believe at this more mature age would keep inviolate anything entrusted to him. The Utility of method, & regularity in small affairs, & the absolute necessity of it, in the more important concerns of Life, I have frequently inculcated in the most pressing manner, & shall repeat them upon this occasion, with a request to pursue the method you proposed, of purchasing Copper plates, & writing every opportunity he can be released from his Clasickcal Studies— I feel affraid that his mind may be too much absorbed, & that he will not attend sufficently to the various duties of life, but when he realizes that his bread must be earned by assiduity to whatever may be his employment, I hope he will not be wanting in propriety of conduct—
        I suppose I have had greater anxiety upon my mind respecting William’s profession, & getting into business, than if both Parents were living. I have had thoughts of requesting Mr Abbot to bear him upon his mind for an assistant at Exeter Accademy, but your letter has releived my mind from that care, & my wish is, that he may treasure up such seeds of useful knowledge, as shall be servicable in future life, yeilding a rich harvest; & hope that the suggestions relative to my Son in your letter, may prove an incentive to everything that is lovely, & of a good report.— I know he feels too young to determine what profession to follow, indeed the decission must depend upon Contingences. He wishes to pursue his studies after he leaves Colledge. I find that History both ancient, & modern is his

favourite pursuit, & he seems gratified that you say, there will be some time for the purpose of reading. When he first entered Colledge, I did not know but he might prefer the study of divinity, but I cannot say I wish it— Law, I presume would be his favourite pursuit, were there not so many obstacles to impede his Course. I wish him to lay a good foundation a store of knowledge that may qualify him for any business, & then it will not be difficult to find some whereby he may get a living— I scarcely know what to say, with regard to his taking a School in the winter vacation, as his board & other expences in this senior year must necessarily be much accumalated. Perhaps it may be best, should a good place be offered—
        Judge Livermore called upon us Commencement Week. Mr Peabody & Daughter attended it—& I could not give an answer respecting the Children till his return— He now wishes me to assure you, that if Mrs Smith should like to send her Sons, & place them under our care, he will attend to their morals, & manners, & as far as it is in his power, make them excellent Scholars—& on my part I shall be happy to render either you, or my dear Niece any service, & as much as possible supply the place of their amiable Mother, to her dear Children— We have a most worthy Preceptor, who understands human passions, & well knows how to regulate, not exterpate them— The intense heat, & dryness of the weather for this month has been as much as we could bear— I think of you often, & hope you find cool breezes to refresh, & invigorate both body & mind after the fatigues of the Day—
        I was at Mr Allens the other day, She enquired very affectionately after you— She has not been well this summer—she has the Jandice I believe— Our Haverhill friends are well as usual— Mr White called upon me the other morning, & said his Wife, & Son, & daughter were well—
        Our worthy friend Mr Sam. Tufts drinks deep of the bitter Cup— He will soon be called to part with all his Children I fear— His Son, & daughter now lie at the point of death— They are upon the brink of the eternal world— He is almost bowed to Earth with grief—but the Christian religion is his support— Faith in the being, & attributes of a righteous Governor, is as an anchor to his wounded Soul—
        General Wadsworth said he saw you the night before he left the City, & you had some hope of returning & making a short visit, I wish it might be in your power, & then you could take your

Grandsons with you, if it was agreeable to Mrs Smith— I long to see her, she was always a favourite Neice— I cannot but think of what Juba, said of Marcia—“The virtuous Marcia towers above her Sex, true— she is fair” &cc—
        I do not know how to convey this Letter to you, I suppose the mail will be the most regular— I commend it to the care of Mr Smith—wishing it a speedy passage, I / subscribe with much love, & affection, your Sister

          Elizabeth Peabody

          P.S— Everything that respect & gratitude can inspire, is presented by your Nephew, & Neices—
          Perry’s Dictionary Websters third part, & what latin Books are in schools, are used here— Terms of board in Town is from eight to nine shillings pr week, nine shillings entrance for three months—& nine d. pence week—afterwards as long as they chuse—


Title: John Quincy Adams to Thomas Baker Johnson, 31 July 1797
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Johnson, Thomas Baker

          My Dear Sir.
          London 31. July 1797.

        Though I have not hitherto enjoyed the pleasure of a personal acquaintance with you, I have long since learnt to participate in the warm affection which a most amiable and worthy family, to which you belong, bear towards you, and at this time after having formed and solemnized, the tenderest and dearest of all human connections with your beloved sister, Louisa, I am happy in deriving from it some claim to your regard, and the right of giving you the sincerest and most cordial assurances of my friendship and attachment.— On Wednesday last the 26th: instt: we were married, and it is my wish and hope, that henceforward you will consider me in the light of a zealous and affectionate brother.
        The University at which you now reside, was also the instructress of my early youth, and is remembered by me with affection and gratitude. I hope that your career there will be as pleasing and as useful to you, as it was to me, and that in future life you will find the fruits of Literature and Science, as abundant and valuable, as their blossoms are fair and fragrant.
        I have to request your acceptance of the case of mathematical instruments which will accompany this Letter, and I hope they may prove of some utility to you in the pursuit of a branch of your studies, which if not the most attractive of those in which you are engaged, is among the most important.
        I am, Dear Sir, very sincerely and faithfully your friend & humble Servt:

          John Quincy Adams


Title: John Quincy Adams to Charles Adams, 1 August 1797
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Charles

          My dear Brother.
          London 1. August 1797.

        Upon my arrival at this place, about three weeks since, I received your kind letter of June 8th: which was the first line, I have had from you these many months, and it needed not that circumstance to render it highly valuable. You do not however mention in it the receipt of several letters, which I have written you, and which I hope have not miscarried in the conveyance. Among the rest, that of 29 December of the last year was of a nature to require some notice of its contents, as it related particularly to my affairs in your hands. It gave you an authority to draw on me for 2000 Dollars provided you could place such a sum to good advantage, in a proper and legal manner. I have never received any answer to it whatever, and know not whether you have drawn for the money or not.— I requested you to direct the payee of the bills, in case they should come after my departure from Holland, to make application to Messrs: W & J Willink at Amsterdam, who would discharge them on my account. I have accordingly left such directions with them, when I came away.— But if you should not yet have drawn, when you receive this letter, it will be best to draw the bills themselves on Messrs: Willink to be paid on my account, which they will duly honour. And I wish to suggest to you once more, the expediency of your mentioning business rather more frequently than you have hitherto done.
        I should even at this time be glad to know how a small further sum might be disposed of beneficially, but cannot expressly authorise you to draw for any thing more, for want of proper, minute and precise information.
        I had not heard of the death of our Grandmother and of our Cousin Mary Smith, until the receipt of your letter. The former had lived to such a great age, and had seen her Son raised by his merit to such an eminence, that she must have quitted this life, without reluctance. For Mary Smith, her friends might hope a longer date & a more fortunate lot.
        The appointment to Berlin, which your letter speaks of, is not an agreeable one to me, nor should it ever have taken place with my

consent. I shall go however as it is required of me, and am only waiting for my orders.
        The Jacobins you tell me, are not pleased with my official communications that have been published, and Mr: Livingston can compare them to nothing but the speech of the Director Barras to Mr: Monroe.
        My old Schoolfellow Bache has become too thorough-bred a democrat to suffer any regard for antient friendship, or any sense of generosity for an absent enemy, to suspend his patriotic scurrility. These people have improved upon the doctrine of Mandeville. He only contended that private vices were public benefits, but their theories and still more their practice, makes public virtue essentially consist of the most detestable private vices.— As for Mr: Livingston’s comparison, from whom it would have given me severe mortification to have heard it made; but those men would not have made it, however they might have disapproved the tenor of my communications. Had they meant a violent attack upon a man, who never gave them, nor intended them any provocation, they would have waited until he could be present to defend himself. Sentiments of this description however, Mr: Livingston does not admit, perhaps does not understand, and therefore he cannot mortify me, by comparing my letters to any speeches whatsoever, unless it be to his own.— I never intended nor expected that those letters of mine would have been published. It is not my wish unnecessarily to give offence to any one, much less to offer an insult to persons for whom I have a real regard, but it was my duty to give the true state of facts to my Government, as well as to reply firmly to the inadmissible proposals of the Dutch Committee. Had I imagined the documents would have been brought before the public eye, perhaps I should have altered in some few passages the phraseology; but the substantial truth of facts, and the reasoning upon them would have been exactly the same, in defiance of all the teeth of Livingston and all the slaver of Bache.
        I have at length followed the example, which I should regularly have given to you, and was married last Wednesday the 26th: ulto: to Miss Louisa Catherine Johnson, I can pass no higher eulogium upon her, than to say, she is worthy of being the third Sister, where there were already two so deserving. Our Sister Smith knows her well, and I ardently hope for the time, when she will be equally well-known and beloved by my Sister Adams. She intends writing to

her, as I ought to have done long ago. I hope however you will convince her that the omission has not proceeded from churlishness.
        I once more entreat you to write me as frequently as you can, and for the future you may direct your letters either under cover to Mr: King here or to Mr: S Williams the American Consul at Hamburg, or to Mr: Frederick Delius at Bremen. The two latter places will be those, to which the communications from America will be the most frequent.
        I am with invariable affection your Brother.


Title: William Cranch to Abigail Adams, 5 August 1797
From: Cranch, William
To: Adams, Abigail

          My dear Madam
          Philadelphia Augt. 5th. 1797

        Mrs. Cranch informs me that a kind letter arrived from you at Washington since my arrival here, requesting me to reside at your house while I remained in Philada.— I need not repeat how much I am obliged by all your goodness & attention. The second day after my arrival here I met Mr. Briesler, who mentioned to me your kind request & the orders he had received; & inforced the invitation with such appearance of real sincerity, that I promised, I would reside at the house on my return from N. York. I return’d last Monday, & have since occupied your house—but it is solitary in the extreme. I do not recollect that I ever felt the want of society before. The weather indeed, has its share of operation.— My journey to N. York was to carry Miss Eliot, who expects there to meet her parents. I had the pleasure to dine with Mr. C. Adams on saturday.—
        I find Messrs. M & N strongly fortified on the banks of the Schuylkill, with scarce the means of obtaining even their dayly bread. But I feel myself pretty secure, & have no fear of being

eventually a great loser by their misfortunes. But I feel most severely for the confinement of my poor friend Greenleaf.— Disappointed Speculation & exulting Envy have tried to blast his Character, but if ever a heart possess’d that Charity which ought to cover a multitude of faults, I believe it to be his.— His fault has been too sanguine a disposition, in himself and too much Confidence in that of others.—
        I find Mr. Morris in such a situation that I can not urge a compliance with his promise to purchase me a library. I shall therefore accept my Uncle’s kind offer of the Loan of $200 for which I shall leave with Mr. Briesler my note of hand on demand with Interest. Colo. Deakins of Georgetown, voluntarily offer’d to accept my drafts for any sums of money I might want before my return, either for the purchase of books or any other call I might have— But at present I had rather be under obligations to my uncle. Colo Deakins is one of the best men in the world— It would make a convert of the greatest misanthropist to know that even one such man was to be found among ten thousand.— I am happy in believing him one of my best & most influential friends. This is not simply my own opinion of the man, but it is a character establish’d through the whole state.—
        I shall probably be obliged to remain here a few days longer, much against my inclination.—
        Present my most grateful & affectionate Respects to the President, & believe me with every sentiment of respectful affection, your dutiful Nephew

          W. Cranch.


Title: Abigail Adams to Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody, 12 August 1797
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw

          Dear sister
          Saturday— Quincy August 12 1797

        I arrived here this day week, but have been so constantly occupied in seeing company that I have not had time to write a single Line. I received your Letter which I suppose had been on to

Philadelphia, on fryday last, in the full Faith that mr Peabody & you would comply with our request. I took the Children, and brought them with me. John is somewhat indisposed with a return of his Ague— I gave him an Emetic yesterday which I hope will remove the disorder. the Parade of next week, and some engagements which I have, will prevent my getting the Children to you untill the week after, when it is my intention to bring them to you. the President would be very happy to accompany me but the Buisness which every post brings him from Philadelphia, and not having a Clerk secretary with him, will keep him from more than a days absence at a time during our Stay here. I shall take with me our Good sister Cranch & come as early in the week as my other engagements will permit. I am going this day to Boston. I inclose a Letter which mrs smith gave me to you, and have only time to add my kind Regards to mr Peabody, to my dear cousins / from their and your affectionate

          A Adams


Title: Stephen Peabody to John Adams, 12 August 1797
From: Peabody, Stephen
To: Adams, John

          Hond. Sir
          Atkinson August 12th. 1797.

        With pleasure we are informed in the public prints of your safe return from the seat of government. The present critical state of the affairs of our country, has undoubtedly produced pressing anxieties in your mind, of which we have all in some measure been partakers. But the public mind appears to be relieved and satisfied,

with the cool, deliberate, and spirited measures recommended in your excellency’s spech, and adopted by Congress, which we think, cannot fail of arresting the attention, and approbation of every enlightened citizen possessed of a prenciple of integrity.— May Heaven direct our public measures, establish a government upon the prenciples of equal liberty, and make our country an asylum for the virtuous, from all parts of the world.
        The enclosed sermon you will please to accept; excuse want of sentiment, and inaccuracies in the composition, and unjustifiable liberties taken by the printer.
        Here you will permit me to observe; that for a clergyman, in an obscure country village to propose a visit from the president of the United States with his lady, might seem assuming; to omit making the request, taking into view family relations, would be an exhibition of neglect; which involves me in a dilemma. I may say however, that one of the best Sisters in the world is worthy of attention, and with her connections, would feel themselves honored, and gratified to wait on her friends when ever an opportunity presents.
        Master William Shaw the bearer, will inform you of our health and domestic circumstances.
        That the smiles of Heaven may accompany your exertions in directing our national affairs, in discovering the dark complicated machinations of our enemies foreign and domestic, is the cordial pray[er] of / Hond. Sir / Your most obedient, / humble servant—

          Stephen Peabody


Title: Ruth Hooper Dalton to Abigail Adams, 15 August 1797
From: Dalton, Ruth Hooper
To: Adams, Abigail

          my Dear Madam
          Washington August. 15. 1797

        After your having been three months in the City of Philadelphia at this season of the year I think our good Friend the President and you must want some relaxation, and the sea air for a few weeks will be gratefull to you. as we are agreeably situated near the river I dont feel the want of it. where ever you are I wish health and happyness to attend, and hope you will return perfectly recovered and injoy

an agreeble Winter, and that another season we shall have the Pheasure to see you here.
        I have often thought of the alteration there was in the former set of our acquaintance, almost every one then belonging to Congress are gone. I know but few of those who supply their places.
        the times we live in my dear Madam are Critical indeed, and God only knows what will be the end. that the Vessell of State with its present Conductors may be kept in Safety, and brave all the storms and tempests that they may have to pass through, is my Sincere prayer. He took the Command at a difficult season but His known abilities and good conduct I think I can Venture to say the Majority of the people have great confidence in. I hope His endeavours will be crowned with peace and tranquility and Honor to the Country
        The publick affairs have very much affected this place in its growth and Commerce. I hope soon both will revive. This has been a great disappointment to Mr Dalton and made him a Man of much more leisure than he expected or likes to be which makes me sometimes wish we were in Philadelphia, as under the present administration I should have hoped some thing to Mr Daltons advantage, and still flatter myself his good Friend will not forget him
        Please to present my kind love to Louissa and tell her I can sympathize with her from feeling the loss of a sister, dear indeed, for She was more than that, I took her as a Child from the dying hands of a tender Mother, and brought her up, Married her, and she had four de[ar] Children; and in my absence died very suddenly It was for a long time I lost my health and indeed have never injoyed it so well since, the lenient hand of time has in a degree eased the smart not cured the wound these are tryalls we must submit to
        Mr Dalton and all my Family joyn in very affectionate regards to the President and yourself. my young Ladys thank you and Louissa for your kind wishes to see them. At present it will not be in their power they would like it much. Wishing you a most pleasant Jurney and happy return / I am Dear Madam / your very affectionate Friend

          Ruth Dalton


Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to Abigail Adams, 10 September 1797
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Adams, Abigail

          My dear Mother.
          London September 10th: 1797.

        Mr: Fitch Hall being about to embark for New York I have entrusted to his care a trifling present, which I beg you to accept from

me. I intended to have sent you a profile of myself by Mrs: Johnson, but was prevented by the suddenness of her departure, which took place a week sooner than it had been previously fixed. The whole family left this place yesterday morning with the intention of joining their vessel at Gravesend and embarking immediately for Georgetown. The separation, you will easily conceive to have been painful to fond & affectionate parents, & tender sisters, who were taking leave for the first time of a much loved daughter and Sister, though they are well assured that she is left to the care of an husband & a brother who will shew her every tenderness and attention that her situation can claim. She is indeed a most lovely woman, & in my opinion worthy in every respect of the man for whom she has with so much apparent cheerfulness, renounced father & mother, kindred & Country to unite her destinies with his.
        It would have been less unpleasant for us to have parted from this family, had we been ready & free to depart hence ourselves; but no orders have yet arrived, and we are apprehensive of their being so long deferred as to occasion us a disagreeable & uncomfortable journey & voyage in the severest season of the year, which is fast approaching. It is hoped however, that Mr: Smith, or our Commissioners to France, will be the bearers of instructions by which our movements may be regulated. Our actual position is disagreeable.
        The latest news from America is of the 23d or 4th: of July. As there is nothing comfortable in it, I forbear making any remarks upon it, further than that I am heartily ashamed & mortified at the depravity & wickedness of some of our native fellow-citizens. I feel angry rather than humiliated at the injurious language of which the diplomatic body in America, are the organs to our Government; but I hope their communications will be carefully preserved, for ere long they will make a novel & curious collection, worthy to be baptised by the name of impudent tracts, being a specimen of modern negociation, with a neutral nation.
        You will see the newspapers, which I send by this occasion to my father. Those of the day contain important statements of french affairs, but the intelligence is so recent that I know not how far it can be credited. I shall therefore hazard no remarks upon it.
        Present me kindly to my father & to our friends in general & accept the / love & duty of your Son

          Thomas B Adams.


Title: Joshua Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 12 September 1797
From: Johnson, Joshua
To: Adams, John Quincy

          My Dear Sir
          Margate Rhoads 12 Septr. 1797.

        We reached Graves end about 11 OClock on Monday & proceeded immediatly on Shipboard. the Wind being fair we Saild in about Two Hours afterwards & rundown to the Hope, we remained their that Night & got under weigh the next Day & reached Bugsbeys Hole, where we remained until to Day 1 O Clock during which time we experined very heavy Gales of Wind, which created both alarm & much Sickness. we got to this place to Day about 3 OClock & if the Wind comes fair have hopes of reaching the Downs tomorrow, where I purpose to remain the shortest time possible, indeed I am the more anxious to get away as the Season grows late & we may expect a very rough Passage—
        I need not attempt describing to you my sufferings on this occasion of leaving England you have seen & witnessed them, my determination was formed from disappointments & I am perswaided that it is the most proper to enable me to do speedy Justice to every one, however I doubt not but many will censure me, for the moment & who will by & by approve the stop— I deposited a Paper with you, before parting with you, should any accident happen to me, I recommend that to your serious attention—

        To the part of the World you are going to I do not expect to hear from you often, but when ever an opportunity offers I hope you will not omit droping me a Line—
        I beg that you will deliver the Inclosed to my Dear Child & your Wife, with the attendance of the most sincere affections of a Tender & Loving Father whose Prayers are ever held up to the supream being for your Healths & happiness & who is my, / Dear Sir / Your truly Affecte. Frn

          Joshua Johnson


Title: Catherine Nuth Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 18 September 1797
From: Johnson, Catherine Nuth
To: Adams, John Quincy

          Stromness the orkney Islands Sept 18th 97
          My Dear Son

        altho an unsolicited Corespondent my heart assure’s, me these few Lines, will find A Generous Asylum, in your Breast, you will doubtless be surpris’d at the date of this, but driven by adverse Winds, & what is still Worse, Adverse Fortune, we are Obliged to take refuge in one of the Islands, of the Orkney’s, the sport of Boreos for these last ten days, we Blest the Providence, which Secure’d us a safe Retreat, in this harbour. the town the only one on these Island’s, that I Can discover, is A miserable poor place, but to me at this moment, Magnificently Grand, so do we measure happiness, from the transition, of Pain to Pleasure, not a face that I see, but appears to bring me some Comfort, Alass short Live’d will it be, as we are now, not, any nearer to our destination than when we Left Margate, the same tract of Ocean to Measure & the season far advancing, I will not however give way, to unpleasant anticipations, but return my gratefull acknowledgements, to the great [disposer?] of the Universe, that has Conducted me to this port of Safety, well knowing your time Can be better Spent then in perusing my Dull Epistle, I must Conclude with this Great truth, that no Event of my Life, has given me more heartfelt Satisfaction, than that which enables me, to Subscribe myself your / Affectionate Mother

          C Johnson


Title: Abigail Adams to Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody, 25 September 1797
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw

            my Dear sister
            Quincy sepbr. 25th 1797

          I last Evening received your Letter of the 19 & 20th Instant. I am most sincerely grieved for the melancholy situation of our Nephew, and the more so as it is not in my power to render him any personal assistance. Since my return from Haverhill I have thought it necessary to return the civilities received, which has obliged me to entertain weekly several sets of company and that with a Family of 20, & frequently more, is sufficient care, if I was well accommodated with help which from ill health, I am not. Cousin Betsy and your son were sitting out, or had every thing in readiness to do so, when she was Seizd with a turn of the inflamitory Rhumatism, and detaind she made yesterday an experiment to see how she could ride and came there, but was unable to sit up more than half the day. I cannot think but what she would herself need the aid of others, instead of being of service as she is most desirious to be. Louissa fell away during Marys sickness and has never recoverd her flesh since. they all have a Sharp Humour in their Blood which some times falls upon the Lungs & sometimes into their faces. they have none of them firm constitutions. I have only one fortnight more to remain here when we must sit out on our Journey, like the doves of Noah not knowing where to place our feet, for the Pestilence still rages in Philadelphia, and that with accumulated voilence. I received a Letter from mrs Smith in which she says that she anxiously waits to hear from you. I shall write her and inclose Williams Letter. she says when she received the first Letter from them she was ready to cry for Joy. poor Women, her Lot in Life is not what I could wish it. she has not had any late Letters from the col and I believe does not know where he is. it is my determination, that she and her daughter shall go with me this winter if I can find a Home for myself—unless she hears from the col or he returns. I will let her know the calls you have upon your benevelence; I fear it will affect your Health. to mr and Mrs Atwood I shall ever feel a strong attachment and regard for their Parental goodness. may their Children never want the like aid; amidst the many evils and the great cruelties which are daily presenting themselves to our view from Foreign Wars and devastation, it is a relieaf to the pained mind, to find that Benevolence, Love and Friendship still have an existance, and that proofs are not

wanting of many, yet being the deciples of him, who made it a criterion, that we should Love one an other.
          as soon as it is practicable cousin Betsy will come, should her Brother need her. my Love to him and tell him I pray that he may have all needed support
          your son is still here, and looks in much better Health than he was; he grows quite fat & has a good coulour, to what he had. he has had but one of those Headacks to which he is subject. his uncle does not know how to spair him whilst he stays here, and as he has time to study I hope it will not be any injury to him—
          I was glad to hear that my Children were well. I am more anxious for them knowing that they are under my care, than when they were with their Mother. I could not have placed them any where else to have been so well satisfied as I feel myself now. I would have you get a Trunk or chest made, but perhaps with adding one dollor more a chest with two draws might be made to Serve both of them. I inclose ten dollors out of which I will thank you to get some fine yarn spun for Socks for them and to pay for a trunk or chest. if cousin B. gets time to knit them, I will pay her. Present me kindly to mr Peabody. my son you see, as I do by the papers is married we have Letters to June 29th from Thomas & from J Q A to the 20th he was just then going to England. he was married on the 27 July as the Newspapers inform us. We have not yet any Letters from England. my Love to the Children their next Letter must be to me. adieu my dear sister. I scarcly know what I have written, I have not been calld away less than 20 Times since I began. most affectionatly your sister

            Abigail Adams

          compliments to mr Vose I should be glad to have his opinion of the Boys without any scruples.


Title: Abigail Adams to Mercy Otis Warren, 1 October 1797
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Warren, Mercy Otis

          my dear Madam
          Quincy october 1st 1797

        I acknowledg myself indebted to you for two kind Letters, both of which found me in circumstances of distress; the first which came to me before I went to Philadelphia, I fully intended to have replied to at the Time, but the many cares and avocations which at that time occupied my mind, preparitory to my going, and the peculiar melancholy circumstance of the Death of my Mother and Neice within a day or two of each other, not only arrested me in my journey, but added to the cares with which I had before felt myself opprest. to you therefore, who have so frequently been summoned on like Solemn occasions, I need make no further appology.
        your Last kind Letter, which I had no right to expect, and was therefore received as a pledge of a Friendship which bears the stamp of Time, and which I hope will endure with our Lives, however we may discent upon some Subjects, upon that of Mutual good will esteem, and real affection I trust we shall be ever united, and your Letter expressive of it should have met a ready reply, but I was dissabled both with my Eyes and Hands, having met an accident in a carriage which like to have cost me my Life— I have however recoverd so as to leave only a small scar behind.
        Your kind invitation to visit you in the, only stile which can ever be agreable to me, that of Hospitality and freedom, would have given both mr Adams & myself great pleasure. a promise which he made to the secretaries, of not being absent from Quincy more than one day at a Time, that their communications might always find him, has confined him to this place ever since his return. one only visit have I made, and that to my sister in New Hampshire. I fulfilld two duties, that of visiting a very dear sister, which I had not done before, since her residence & Marriage in that state, and placing my two Grandsons at an accademy there, and in her Family and under her inspection, that they may receive a Genuine New England Education which I am Yanky enough to prefer to any other I have yet seen.
        We leave this place in a few days, without knowing where we are to Stop. the distrest state of a city which seems devoted to Calamity, and the Pestilence which still rag[es] there, renders it Dangerous to enter it at this Time, and the certain clamour which will be raised if Congress are convened at any other place, renders it

difficult for the President to know what is best and most for the Good of the Country, & the safety of its Members; without being much nearer, where a more accurate statement of Facts can be assertaind.— The Philadelphians will complain & say there is no danger, tho at Present their city is deserted of two thirds of its inhabitants
        I received a Letter from Mrs otis a few days since. she with her Family are at Bristol about 18 miles from the city, and were all well.
        When I was at Providence I took Tea at the late Govenour Bowens. they inquired kindly and particularly after you & your Family, and desired a particular remembrance to you.
        The President joins me in an affectionate remembrance to his old Friend the Genll and to Mrs Warren both of whom it would have given him pleasure to have Seen at Quincy.
        I am dear Madam with sentiments of / Regard and esteem / Your affectionate Friend

          Abigail Adams


Title: Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody to Abigail Adams, 6 October 1797
From: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw
To: Adams, Abigail

          My Dear Sister—
          Atkinson Oct. 6th 1797

        Since my last my time has been cheifly occupied, in attending to those services, which were due to our late worthy Nephew— Though we had been in daily expectation of his dissolution, & every breath he drew seemed as if I heard a voice, saying “Sister Spirit come away” yet it was a sudden stroke at the close— As he called the watcher who set by him, Aunt, I suppose he took her for me; & I was perswaded to go & lie down; sleep, I did not expect— I presumed that was mounted upon its airy pinions— I had no sooner thrown my head upon my pillow, than I was roused by his distressing exertions to raise, I heard him speak “call the Dr. give me a puke I shall die”—& then an awful silence ensued— it was not dificult to guess the cause— the watchers met me, he is gone—he is gone was their exclamation— I suppose an ulcer broke, & suffocated him— thus ended the short life of the sober minded, patient, once healthy blooming Charles—& may his budding virtues, blossom in an happier, less tempestous Clime—
        I feared his Mother, & Sisters would think his Funeral was appointed at so early a period, as to preclude the Opportunity of their attending even if they had earnestly desired it— I thought they would not come, & as I found it would interrupt Mr Atwoods buisness to have it deffered, as he shut up his Shop I thought it best to let him suit his convenience, & have the funeral when he pleased— I returned home thursday P M, & sent back Betsey Quincy, & her Sister that night— William hired an horse for himself, & we took Cousin John in the Chaise the next day with us— I think

there were twelve of us went down to his Funeral— The near neighbours, & connections were desired to walk as mourners, & it being a pleasant day, there was a large concourse who payed the last tribute of respect to a youth, deservedly dear to all his acquaintance—
        It is a great satisfaction to me that I have been able to attend my Nephew during his painful Sickness— nothing but having him in my own house could have given me more— Mr Atwood is one of the most benevolent of men— The great beneficent Parent must behold him with pleasure, for “God loveth a chearful Giver”—& there has been nothing spared, that could tend to make Charles easy, & comfortable— It is really a charming Family, & I am convinced that those virtues of the heart which dignify human nature, are not confined to time, or place, but are found where we have least reason to expect them, & often flourish most in an humble station—
        I have desired Mr Atwood to collect all the bills The Drs, Nurses, Porters—&cccc ready for me to lay before you, & Dr Tufts— I presume Charles had Cash nearly enough to answer the chief of those— I told Mr Atwood he must think what his own bill will be, & let me know soon as he could what his expences had been— He frequently told me while Charles was sick, that he should charge nothing for his own trouble, but I know the expence occasioned by watchers, two in a night frequently, which were generously treated must be great—& the handsome provision made at the funeral of Coffee, tea, wine &cc must be more than he ought to do— At first I felt loth to stay at his house— Charles was easier, & I went home a day, or two, but he sent his Chaise for me a Sabbath day, & said I must stay, with Charles, & his wife, that he loved to have me with them, & should not feel easy if I, were not— Betsy went & watched with Charles twice, but the poor Girl beged so for me to come again if I were not sick, that I told her I would not leave him— I hope her Cousins sick Chamber may prove salutary to her immortal Spirit, & though painful to the body, yet happy for her Soul— Mr Abbot prayed, that the near friend of equal age who with affectionate concern had watched his pillow, might have such a sense of divine things, such important realities impressed upon her mind as should not be erased by time, or the vicissitudes of Life— He knew the circumstances of the Family, & most fervently prayed for the absent Mother, Brethren, & Sisters, that they might be supplyd with every needful Blessing, & those consolations which their particular circumstances required— It was a most excellent prayer, presented upon the alter of my heart, I hope an acceptable Sacrifice—

        I told Mr Atwood that his Sister had been a most attentive, neat, kind nurse, that I would have her paid the usual price, & something handsome given her— He kindly told me, I must not think of giving her less than eight or ten Dollars, for she was high spirited, & he had rather give a part back to me, than not have her gratified—& pleased— I thanked him for his frankness, & said, she had payed Charles those attentions which no money could purchase—& ought to be rewarded— I wish for your counsel, & advice—
        The exertions which I had made to keep well, that I might behave with true magninimity of Soul, through the gloomy Scenes, & various duties I was necessarily engaged in, shattered my feeble Bark— It was the twenty-ninth day of September, that I was called to attend my dear Charles to his dark mansions; a day, to me ever memorable—for thoughts which are improper for me to utter— In awful Silence, I adore & tremble—
        Thy divine attributes are conspicuous in all thy works, & in all thy dealings, O thou great arbiter of Events!— Thy righteousness is as a mountain, which no human Eye can pervade, & thy Judgments a great deep, which no mortal man can fathom.— Impressed with a sense of thy all surrounding power, I join the Psalmist in that grateful apostrophe, How excellent is thy loving kindness, how great is thy goodness O my God! therefore in humble reliance upon thy mercy, will I ever put my trust, under the shadow of thy wings, & confide to thy arms my fatherless Children— These were the reflections which occured, while with solemn steps, & slow, I passed from Grave, to Grave till I came to the house appointed—till I reached that, which, though no stone told where he laid, I could easily perceive One, over which the turf was scarcely closed & whose green had not yet received its wonted hue— I turned from this melting scene, with this petition,—though our Sins have been as scarlet, may we be white as Snow, washed in the blood of the Lamb, & though these vile bodies of ours, may moulder in the dust, may we all rise in Glory, & be permitted to join the celestial Choir in ceaseless Hallelujahs—
        I have had a charming visit from Mr. & Mrs Smith.
        I had been quite sick all day, but I would not suffer the gloom I felt at my heart, to interrupt the pleasure of their visit— By them the kind present you sent to Betsy Quincy came safe to hand, for which she most cordially thanks you— Mrs Smith told me how good you had been to my Son, & that he looked finely—how thankful shall I be, if he does but do credit, & honour to his benefactors— I feel a

peculiar pleasure in endeavouring to serve your Grand-children, in every respect—either body, or mind, we wish to pour the “fresh instruction” into their tender minds, & lead them to habits of virtue, that they may reach the temple of honour, & like their ancestor, be crowned with unfading laurels—
        Mr Vose says William does well with learning english Grammer, but 2 years makes some difference, & as John is not so good a reader, he had better be kept to that, & to writing at present— They are neither of them bad tempered— William is orderly, & attends to reasoning, John hears, & is faulty the next moment— Mr Peabody is very kind to them, but is resolute in exacting proper obedience— Limited monarchy is the best Government— It is as necessary in large families to have the power vested in one, & to be obeyed, as in states, & kingdoms—
        We are doing your Childrens stocks with some mixed blue yarn, I had left of my sons— they will do in the snow better than wosted— I have put away all their best shirts, & keep the old ones in wear— If you will send cotton, for three a peice, Betsy Q shall make them— The little fellows are charming well, & hearty & I believe happy, I intended writing to their dear Mamma, but I have had something the Dr says of a slow fever all the week, I have taken two large portions of Cinnce, & feel a little better— If I were well, I would not send this ill written letter— May heaven direct your steps, & preserve you, & yours in health prays your Sister
        Give my love to Louisa
        John & William have written letters, & sealed them, before they brought them to me, I would have corrected them if they had not, you will please to excuse their errors— pray do not forget Scate[s]—