Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Harriet Welsh, 28 January 1818
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Welsh, Harriet

					Dear Harriet
					Quincy Janry 28th 1818

				Mrs Cushing came last fryday to make me a visit, so that I have not been able to write a line She left me to day about noon, when I received a note from You with Carolines and mr Lymans Letter. it took us Some time and trouble to decypher it, but finally we made out to read & reread it. The president thinks it the best and most accurate account of the State of Literature &  the Learned professions in that Country which he has met with. he lends it to the Family, but considers it his property and requests it may be returned to him—I send you Vanderkemps Letter and my last Journal which you will see must not go further than your own Eye—as what she says respecting mr A would not do for any Eye but a Friends. If you see the National intelligencer it will explain to you who the strange figure of a Lady was who enterd the drawing Room in a Bonet & Pelese—The allegorical figures are not explaind to me in her painting but according to mrs A. they are too much for the modesty of one of the ministers—have you read in the paladium a peace peice addrest to mr Clay upon South American affairs dated Philadelphia. it treats him very plainly—I presume after the proclamation of the prince Regent forbidding his Subjects to engage, mr Clay will be more Wary—yesterday being fine Sleighing beside mrs Cushing and her Nephew, about ten a clock mr & mrs Holley came, then mr & mrs Boylstone—Mr Holley was so entertaining that he staid till night & I beleive would not have gone then, if she had not been engaged in the Evening—He is indeed a man of wonderfull powers of conversation, great reading, and retentive memory, none of which does he hide in a Napkeen. He is going to Washington on Monday—I have not been able to write to Caroline as I designd, but will tomorrow—the old Man must have made his Story out of his own Head. we never had any Chariot made for us in this State, and certainly not 40 years ago which was before the President went abroad—O sad what a rain and melting this delightfull snow away—I hoped for a lasting and solid foundation for a time—I want John to get me Some patterns of coating such as childrens Great coats are made of that which is good, and some patterns of Buff Cassemere & the price, also some pattern of calico Vinton & Case usually have a good assortment. be so good as to ask at Callenders what I can have a Bag of Coffe at for, of about 30 wt—My Letter from Caroline chiefly respected mrs Smith, and I sent it to mrs Adams to Show to her Sister. I fear a bundle designd for mrs Smith from Caroline is lost through carelessness—more words  may hap tomorrow—29nothing New this morning, but fair weather. pray why did you never show me Mr Holleys poetry upon miss Hart? I first heard of it from Washington. we are puzeld for mr. H Christian Name. is it Horace? not very Christian neither—I See in the paper, that the strange Lady has addrest a Letter to the Senate offering them this picture—I am mistaken if they purchase it. I also see a motion for raising the Sallery of our Govt If it does not succeed, shame upon the Members who prevent it. it ought to be 5 thousand—Rich as this state is—were you and I there Harriet we would do better things, provided we were Sovereign! burn, burn all such Hodge Poge from

					A A


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to John Quincy Adams, 29 January 1818
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, John Quincy

My Dear Son
Quincy Janry. 29th 1818.

I write but seldom to you, least you should feel as tho’ you were obliged to replie, when you must be much occupied with public Business and as I am now engaged to address you in that line, You will feel obliged to listen.
My present design is to name to you a Gentleman for office conditionally. It is reported that Major Warren of plymouth is about to resign, or be removed from the office of collector of the port of Plymouth. Should that be the case, Mr William Hamet of that Town, has requested to be named as a candidate. He is a Gentleman of Good Character, a Friend of Government altho’ not of party.—Much esteemed, and respected, of Sober Habits—I have known him for several years, having married a Neice of my Friend Mrs Cushings—You can name him to the President.—Having finished this business—I want to know if you have any personal acquaintance with Mr Wirt. Your Attorney General? I have lately been reading his sketches of the Life of Patrick Henry, with as much pleasure, and lively interest as any Romance of the highest order; If he had the materials for his whole Life, What a Book he would have written? I query tho’ whether Mr Henrys Eloquence surpassed his Biographers pen
Your Father has written a Letter or two to mr Wirt Upon his Book—I want to ask your Patronage, and subscription for the North American Review. It is the best Periodical work which has appeard and wants encouragement; George says that he takes it, and will send it to you, that his subscription will terminate next April when he will subscribe for you, if you direct it—What Shall be done with the great picture? I fear half Standing, half lying, that it may get injured. mr Foster said he should be glad to take it and hang it up in his House untill you should call for it—
You See a proposal for a Marble Bust—how it will terminate I know not, the Governours Sallery, I hope will pass—Yours as ever
A Adams


Title: From John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 29 January 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

My dear Son
Quincy Jan. 29. 1818

This will be presented to you by Mr Holley whom you know and whom I pray you to receive with Civility; because he is one of the few in whom I delight. I love him because he is, as Dr Holmes calls him “a phylosophical divine.” I do not much affect any unphylosophical Divines though I candidly tolerate them all and esteem Some.
I am told there will be complaints against Henry Warren as Collector at Plymouth. Of these I know nothing. I hope, none are well founded. I hope Warren will be continued, and certainly will not do or Say any thing against him. But if any thing Should appear, of which I know nothing, to render his removal indispensible I am desired to mention to you Major William Hamet of Plymouth who married a Niece of Mrs Judge Cushing and is every Way well qualified for the Office, and is much esteemed and respected in Plymouth. Mr Sampson the Representative is Supposed to aim at the Appointment, and probably other Candidates will appear. I know nothing of their Pretensions and desire to be considered merely as nominating a Person that his Character may be considered and weighed with the rest.
The Regents Splendid Proclamation of Neutrality between the Patriots and Antipatriots of Spanish America made me Laugh. I dare Say his Ministers would rejoice in their hearts if the Officers would go and Succed. Not one would be punished any more than La Fayette was. On the contrary be rewarded with Glory and Promotion
The Same Ministers, I doubt not would be glad if they could dupe Mr Monroe Secretly or openly to cooperate with them to Sell the Patriots up, as Mr Pitt attempted to dupe me, & as he did dupe poor Col. Smith to his ruin. But the Old Fowls are too old to be decoyed by Flutterers and Such Netts.
Tell Louisa I love her, better and better / every week. All Well, Your affectionate / Father
John Adams


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Caroline Amelia Smith De Windt, 29 January 1818
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: De Windt, Caroline Amelia Smith

					my dear caroline:
					Quincy, January 29th, 1818.

				As Dean Swift says, “eyes with writing almost blind,” I commence a letter to you, near ten o’clock at night, after having written seven letters to go abroad by the Milo.I have been wishing to write to you all the week, but last Friday, in a snow storm, who should come to make me a visit, but Mrs. Cushing, who is always a welcome guest; she stayed until Tuesday; I could not leave her to write.We find so little here to interest us beyond our domestic concerns, that few subjects arise to ruffle the calm, which so tranquilly surrounds us.The only one which creates a public sensation, is the battle of Bunker Hill, as lately published by General Dearborn, in which he has attacked the military character of General Putnam. This has roused the indignation of the son of the General, and he replies with no small share of severity, at the same time with a filial respect, love, and veneration, which cannot fail to interest every reader. He has written a letter to your grandfather, as to one of the oldest survivors of the revolution, respectfully requesting him to inform him, if he had known, or ever heard, in Congress, or out of it, any dissatisfaction with the conduct of General Putnam, upon the memorable 17th of June, 1775? He wishes for the information, whether it may tend either to honour or dishonour.“I desire no favour or concealment, for however alive I may feel to a sense of injury, prompted by envy and selfishness; truth, from a source so respectable and impartial as that of President Adams, will be always held in the same reverence and treated with the same respect, whether it bears the marks of censure or condemnation.”“His honest fame is the most precious inheritance he left his family; and having been his constant attendant from the commencement of the revolution to the last moment of his life, I will defend it, if need be, at the expense of every other earthly hope.”Such a high sense of filial affection and duty, with such honourable feelings, so pathetically expressed, drew tears from my eyes when I read the letter, to which I can by no means do justice without the whole.Mr. Holly is going to Washington, and from thence to Kentucky, where he is invited to be President of a College. He prefers to go and see the country and the people, before he gives an answer; to this purpose, he has obtained leave of absence for three months, and proposes to visit the great and the gay scenes at Washington, to visit Mr. Madison and Mr. Jefferson. Last Monday, he and Mrs. H. came and passed the day with us. He is a very pleasant companion; one need be only a hearer; he has a mind vivid, active, inquisitive, ardent, comprehensive; shall I say profound? He is only 35 years of age; can a man be profound at that age? He says he will not print even a sermon until after 40. he certainly belongs to the family of the Searches; he is very eloquent, a fine person, as you know.And now  dear Caroline, if I could have flourished over my paper as you do, I should have covered three sides, but I had rather have a little than none at all. Let me hear from you, it lessens the distance that separates us. Adieu, dear girl; kiss the babes for me, and believe me in cold weather and warm, in all season and times, your affectionate grandmother,

					A. A.


Title: From Hannah Phillips Cushing to Abigail Smith Adams, 29 January 1818
From: Cushing, Hannah Phillips
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					My Dear Friend
					Scituate Jany 29th. 1818.

				We came here in less than four hours. Found the riding much better than was expected & were not in the least incommoded by the rain. The Ply Stage was on wheels. We had Tea immediately after which Mr Hammatt left as being so anxious to join his family we could not persuad him to pass the night here. I find myself invigorated by the excursion, as is always the case after joining the society under your hospitable roof, where I not only feast according to nature, but intellectually; & my Dear Madam after having been blessed with your friendship so many years, the idea that a termination is fast approaching as to this life would be painful indeed, if it was not for the strong hope, & trust, that we shall meet again in a happier clime, where no alloy will be admited to interrupt celestial enjoyments; & being then reunited to those dear Friends whome we have known here on earth Many of those blessed beings have departed & whose continuance then appeard so essential to our happiness; & when I recoil to mind the pangs of separation, I am at the same time cheered with the hope of their felicity. To wave this subject which is so familiar with you my dear Friend. I regret not seeing Mrs Beal which the weather & company prevented; my love to her, & hope next time to have that pleasure. We found Sister Bowers better, She joins me in best respects to the President & yourself with Love to Miss Smith, & Mrs Clark, Aunt Cushings Love to Thomas.30th.Company coming in yesterday prevented my closing this. What a cold storm to day. I congratulate myself upon the favorable time we had both going & returning from Quincy & unless something extraordinary takes place I do not intend to resque another night till Spring. We have three Grand Children of Sister Baldwins here, to enliven the scene But I must close having a private opportunity to send this to Hanover, as our Mail does not go till WedyAccept of the best wishes of your / Affectionate Friend

					H Cushing


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Harriet Welsh, 30 January 1818
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Welsh, Harriet

					Dear Harriet
					January 30, 1818

				I received the articles this morning cloth Nankeen Ribbon Letter covers &c altho the Gospel declares man & wife to be one, the Law of congress will not allow me that priviledge and my name upon a package or Letter Subjects me to postage—in future by post, let my good mans priviledge cover mine—I Send you my last Letter—what would have been Said in my day if Such Etiquette had been establishd? the cry of monarchy would have resounded from Gergia to maine—I should not have ventured upon such Steps yet there was no other way to bring order out of confusion after the medly of Liberty and Equality which was the order of the day in mr Jeffersons time—and practised by mrs Madison after wardsThe drawing Room in future will be what it formerly was; but with more stile and ceremony. I found Niles Register with the drawing Room article—and have attackd him upon It, in a Letter which I hope he will print—his correspondent was not correct correct.I will send my Letters to Caroline with restrictions they are too free for to be seen & known to be hers—mrs A’s—will you be so good as to get me  yd of the Bambazet like the pattern; enclosed, are Six dollars? I will get osburn to call for it—I gave only 4/6 for mine which was Twild—I think Susan Says she bought it at Hagwoods—this is a good coulour and price. if it Storms do not expose yourselfyours as ever

					A A

					return my Letter
				please to Send the handkerchief which went with the Childrens cloaths


Title: From Nathaniel Niles to Abigail Smith Adams, 30 January 1818
From: Niles, Nathaniel
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					Madam,
					Balt. Jan. 30, 1818

				I was honored with your note, & have attended to it as I hope is in accordance to your will on the subject.I have suffered several times by such mistakes as are noticed in my printed reply; & the opportunity to vindicate myself was so happily presented that justice seemed to require that I should not pass it over.I disavow all connection with the party business of the past or present—& though, to the utmost of the ability afforded I have reprehended political vice, my great object has been to support the broad principles of our happy Constitution, & to make us one people.With sentiments of great respect, / I am, Madam, / your obet St.

					N Niles


Title: From Hezekiah Niles to Abigail Smith Adams, 31 January 1818
From: Niles, Hezekiah
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					Madam—
					January 31, 1818

				It is with high respect that I have the honor to assure you, you have mistaken my “Register” as well as its character, in attributing to it an offensive article about “Drawing Rooms;” while I have to regret that this is not the first time in which my secret pride has been humbled by a similar misapprehension. And such mistakes are easily committed, because another paper is published (at another place, however,) in which the form and manner of the “Weekly Register” is attempted to be copied; probably, that it may pass for mine with the honest and unsuspecting. But of that paper, madam, I never opened or examined but one number, and do not expect ever to examine, much less to read another. I see it only by accident, because it is refused an admittance into my office: nor is my curiosity excited about it, although I am told that its ostensible editor, through a hireling pen,* has several times attempted to honor me with his abuse. I cannot see how I have deserved such marks of respect—seeing that I never have mentioned that editor or named his paper in this; and that I very seldom appear to be wholly sensible that such a thing as the one or the other exists at all.I perfectly recollect to have observed something about “Drawing Rooms,” copied from it, (in another paper) and remember to have read three or four lines of the piece; when I discovered that its subject was not suited for my own taste or that of my male readers, and cast it behind me—I could not believe that the public was any way interested in the domestic arrangements of the president’s wife. Hence I did not know until now that it was so rude as to wound the feelings of a lady—who, in every rank and condition, is entitled to courtesy and protection, but especially commanding it as the worthy consort of a venerable and illustrious patriot of the revolution, who has also filled the most honorable office in the gift of any people in the world. And if, madam, I could have committed myself so far as to publish in my “Register” a thing like that, please to believe that I would have been incapable of adding insult to injury by intruding it upon you. President Adams receives my work only in volumes.Not being decisively instructed, I have only to hope that in publishing your letter I have met your wishes on the subject—The record of facts thereby made will much over-balance, and out-live the calumny. Nay, when that calumny is forgotten, it will stand in evidence of your impartially polite attentions to all that were pleased to visit the “Drawing room while you had the honor to preside there.”With great respect, I have the honor to be yours, &c.

					H. Niles.Editor of the Weekly Register.

					*I acquit the ostensible editor of writing any thing that appears in his paper as original—because I know that he is not competent to it—no matter what is its quality.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, January 1818
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					Jan. 1818

				I am very happy to find by your Letter of the 7th that you are kind enough to be satisfied with my efforts to amuse you  I am generally obliged to write in so great a hurry that I cannot attend to elegance of style and I believe I cannot always boast of writing sense—I am only guided by the current of my thoughts which frequently flow too rappidly to be perfectly rational—If however they enable you to draw some little information as to what is passing in this part of the World and excite some interest for our little perplexities I shall have attained and accomplished my aim—Of Political News I hear little but I fear that the embers which have been some time smothered will soon burst into a blaze and time can only show who it will consume—You will have seen by the Papers that Amelia is in our Possession—Present me kindly to all and believe me ever dutifully yours

					L C A.


Title: From Alexander Contee Hanson to John Quincy Adams, 1 February 1818
From: Hanson, Alexander Contee,Hanson, Alexander Contee
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Feby. 1st. 1818.

				Mr. & Mrs. Hanson are highly flattered by having it in their power to acknowledge the honor of an invitation to dine with Mr. & Mrs. Adams, and certainly do not regret less than Mr. & Mrs. Adams the circumstances which will deprive them of the pleasure of accepting it.They take pleasure in reassuring Mr. & Mrs. Adams of their very high respect & consideration.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 3 February 1818
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Thomas Boylston

					N. 7.My Dear Brother
					Washington 3 Feby. 1818

				I have received your Letters of 13 and 17 Jany, the Letter numbered 7. and enclosing your account to the close of the year—The other two Powers of Attorney, both of which I am obliged to return to you re infecta. Mr. Cutting’s Letter will explain to you the state of things with regard to the Land-Claims, and you must ascertain whether you can furnish the proof required As to the Stock, the Power is to receive only interest due on the  3 per Cent, 6 Per Cent and deferred Stock—But of those two latter descriptions there is always a portion of the principal paid off with the interest—You must therefore substitute in the Power the word dividends wherever the term interest is used, before I can receive the money—If you will send me the Power again with that alteration I will with pleasure complete the business Mr J. L. Sullivan has sent me the Report of the Annual Canal Treasurer, by which it appears there has been no dividend You may suspend all purchases of Shares on my accountYours faithfully.


Title: From Thomas Boylston Adams to William Smith Shaw, 10 February 1818
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Shaw, William Smith

					Dear Sir.
					Quincy February 10th: 1818

				I am informed that my Nephew G W. Adams is to take his examination on Friday next, and as Bondsmen are required by the College Government, I should be glad if you will join with me in the Obligation, as I know of no one whom I can ask with equal freedom. As it will be necessary to go to Cambridge to sign the Bond, I can call for you on Saturday next and give you a Seat with me, Should your health admit of your going; but if you object to the measure or should you be unable to go, please to inform me by Mail.I am very truly, Yours

					Thomas B Adams

					PS. I shall write to George to have a Bond drawn out which he may bring to Boston for Signature.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 13 February 1818
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Thomas Boylston

					N. 8My Dear Brother
					Washington 13 Feby. 1818

				Your Letter of 5 Feby. has been received.—I shall attend to its contents as it regards Mr S. Codman, if the Bankrupt Law should pass—But I recommend no kinsman of mine for any thing—I think the proposed Bill for making national Justices of the Peace will not be adopted but if it should, and your name should be proposed as a Candidate there will be opposition—You know I presume that there is a project in contemplation to move for an address to the Governor of Massachusetts from the two Houses of the Legislature, to missing text I have learnt by a Letter from him that he has passed his examination and been admitted into the Freshman Class—I was disappointed in the hope that he would have got in a year advanced and as hope beaten from one ground is always ready to sieze another, I now begin to flatter myself that the fruits latest ripe, come to the best maturity.The whole of my U.S. Bank Stock has been disposed of and the proceeds, are to be invested as occasion may serve—I am not however very anxious to replace it in Bank Stock of any kind. Mr. J. L. Sullivan has been here—I would now give $.200 a share for Canal Stock, and if you can procure me any at that price you may take itYours affectionately


Title: From François Adriaan Van der Kemp to Abigail Smith Adams, 17 February 1818
From: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

My Dear and Respected Madam!
Oldenbarneveld 17 Febr. 1818.

Although I highly value the honour of your esteemed correspondence—even if it should be limited within the limits of a few lines, yet I receive a far higher gratification from the kind sentiments of friendship, and the unquestionable proofs of your good opinion, which you art pleased to bestow upon me. My only regret remains, that I can not reciprocate these—and that from my part, I often hesitate, to take up my pen, was I not instantaneously encouraged by a lively sense of your courtesy—and these condescending attentions, which I so often experienced—when admitted into your family. Do me not the injustice, my Dear Madam! to suspect me capable, for one instant of flattery, towards a Lady, whom I so highly respect. If I can not express my sentiments in such polished language as John Quincÿ, at least, I trust, you will believe it is the language of mÿ heart, and, in my opinion—it is as much becoming to a modest consciousness of our own worth to accept the tribute to our merits—paid by truth, as it betrays a too common weekness to vaunt ourselves—on what we scarcely knew by name. You have honoured me with your good opinion—which I reckon among the undeserved blessings, for which I sincerely thank my God; and it is my ambition to endeavour to deserve it in some respect. You know—my Dear Madam! to instruct, while you correct, and I must have expressed myself in some what harsh or uncouth manner about female learning—as I doubt not, we agree in the main point—Neither Maria Schwermans—nor Madam Dacier not even Madam Stael could ever have become—would never have been the friends of your bosom, whom you would have loved—and trusted with an unlimited confidence.
Judge Platt is one of the noblest characters I have become acquainted—with I knew Him since 25 years—I love & respect Him—to Him alone in this State I communicated the Biographical sketch—He is my warm friend. Although I have been honoured with distinguished favours from you, I did not expect this last proof of your confidence—in trusting me with that masterly performance. I have perused and admired it, though I could not assent to everÿ sentiment there expressed—but in what I could not agree, I trust I did full justice to the purest intentions of the noble writer: the last strokes have not yet been given—but an unfinished bath of Michel-Angelo imbues us with a deep reverence—and I should not be surprised—that by a revision some strokes were smoothed—neither that the episode of shortland was some what curtailed. I did read it—with your permission, to my wife and daughter; upon both it made a similar impression—and—if I was permitted—to interpret from the Latter’s countenance what passed in her mind—it was in unison with mine.
It is such a valuable tribut of filial love to an affectionate mother—that I request the permission to copÿ it—did I not trust to enjoy your perfect confidence, I should deem it indelicate to propose it—and yet—I can not find fault—if you deem it improper to grant my wish—without leave I shall copÿ his concluding address from 765-768.
While thus oer Europe’s realms my feet have rang’d
My grateful heart to thee remains unchang’d
I could wish Jove removed from a beautiful line 731
Thÿ Franklin’s nod Jove’s lightning has disarm’d
It gives me an inexpressible pleasure, that party—animosities are subsiding—Many, whom I love and respect did view many Practical objects from a different point. and yet bestowed their favours upon me. I was lately called by the Gov—of Albanÿ—which at first I hesitated to comply with—I could not do so without rudeness at the second invitation. The object was, to examine, and if I would undertake it, to translate the Dutch State-Records.
I examined the proposed task—containing about 40 vol. in fol. and finally resolved to endeavour—if in my power to accomplish it. I received distinguished attentions. You, Madam! would have been delighted—in the sight—just so—as if I had been something more than common—but the reflection, that I owed all this to the partial opinion of my friend Adams—at least the largest parts, would have given it  a higher Zest. How honourable all this seemeth—yet, the kind council I was favoured with by a few, who had they been acquainted with the Ladÿ, who in the delight of a Husband—and a son—respected—admired in both continents, would have indulged a pride, to form themselves after this illustrious pattern—this enrapturing pleasure overshadowed all—Adams & Liberty was play’d and sung—and it seemed, as if my approbation was a sufficient motive, to renew the repast.
Once more I am under mÿ roof—in good health—although smarting under pain—occasioned by a fall—the first day of my arrival in Albany— It was a blessing, that I did not break my leg—it was only a wound above the ancle—and shall soon, as I expect, be healed. My Dear Daughter—knowing how I value every line of my Honoured frend send me his Letter to Albany which arrived there after my departure, and shall soon be returned here.
I now endeavour to disengage myself of a vast correspondence—and then I will endeavour to try, if I can accomplish the Herculean task. My object in sending you my Biography has been answered—you did peruse it with some interest. By this I was gratified—Remember me to miss Welsh and assure Her of my high respect. Had my situation permitted me to make an excursion—on my return from Philadelphia, I would have ventured in making a visit to your grand-daughter de Wint—and the distinguished attention with which I am honoured by her and mrs Adams would have saved me in lieu of letters of introduction, and I doubt not, or I would have obtained admittance.
I need not to apply—how powerfull—how irresistible it is—for your intercession in my behalf—to mr. Adams—and am confidant, that you permit me not only but art pleased, when I assure you, that I remain with deep respect and affectionate regard / My Dear and respected Madam! / Your devoted Servant and / highly obliged Frend!

Fr. Adr. vander Kemp

P.S. Mrs v.d.k. and my daughter solicit to be remembered with kindness to your Ladyship—Both deserve to share in your regard—and to day I celebrate the 33 anniversary of the later—the first in perfect health has entered her 72th year. what uncommon blessings has Providence bestowed upon me! You will pray, that I may deserve this and become more thankful every day!


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Harriet Welsh, 18 February 1818
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Welsh, Harriet

					dear Harriet
					Febry 18th 1818

				I have wanted to be writing these two days, but an incessant succession of company which the fine sleighing has tempted out, has prevented, and this Evening after tea I have taken my pen to thank you, for your kindness to George, and to say mr Adams will Send you a check upon the Bank on Saturday if he does not come to Town before—I have a Letter from Caroline which altho it does not contain much I enclose to you—I do not think with you, respecting mrs A, altho her representations were Strong, that the advice & order as She terms it, were given but out of regard to her Health, which does, and will suffer more if She keeps up Such a round of visiting &c I Shall enforce the advice by new admonitions—have you read mr Williamsons  Speech? in the Patriot? when we saw the fate of the G——r Sallery in Senate, the P. said he was sure they would give the Graven Image the go by, if not a positive Negative here you see the workings of humane Nature—the Relatives & Friends of other conspicuous Characters are instantly Jealous & wounded; in honour prefering one & other; Preeminence is a crime not to be forgiven—and are you not asshamed Said a Phylosepher to his Son, or daughter, to dance so well? even distinction in amusement excites envy—they need not fear the P’s being wounded, or planting one furrow more on his Brow. he knows the human Heart too Well—He has no wish to Stand alone or to be Singled out. there are others who acted with him whom he would be fond of Still being associated with altho I heard Honestus should Say, they were about to make the State House Timothy Dexters yard—I really was very anxious yesterday least the P should be Seriously Sick—on Sunday he complaind that he did not  feel well and did not go out. on Monday the cold affected him more than it has this year & on tuesday he was seizd with a voilent cold & cough. I had his feet in warm water & Nurst him with Tea drinks, and to day he is much releived for myself I have got along pretty well, tho the cold pinches meLouissa is but poorly—not a day of health, swells in her feet, her whole frame like a dry parchment—and there is no such thing as getting any perspiration upon her—which is a great misfortune—pray you burn this Scrawl—in mercy to my Spelling—Susan—fingers better—so good nightgood morning I Send the waistcoat—all better that are awake & up, which happens to be only myself—Yours as ever

					A A.

					more out Side paper for wraping Letters


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 27 February 1818
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					my dear Daughter
					Quincy Feb’ry 27, 1818

				Your Journal No 7. to Janry 30th, Harriet brought me to day, just as we had sat down to dinner; It being thursday, John and Charles thought they would treat themselves, and miss Harriet with a Sleigh ride to Quincy—our Friends and acquaintance do not fail to improve the Season, and sometimes come upon us a little unwarily, for one day last week, I had nine at once to dine, when I knew only of my own Family.—However a cordial welcome, and a cup of cold water with it; is more gratifying; than a Royal Feast, into which the Heart does not enter.I designd to have written to you the day after I received your Letter, but was again prevented by company—Indisposition followd—and as this is a month most trying to my constitution, I have been obliged to Nurse a day or two—I was the more desirious of writing to you immediatly, as some parts of your Letter gave me anxiety—I perceive by what you have written, that the point of Ettiquette is not settled to satisfaction, between the Ladies of Senators; and the Ladies of the Secretaries. I beleive it was determined that the Secretaries should Rank with the Senators, but that the first visit should be made to the Senators—as I presume you would not willingly give offence, and if the Secretaries make the first visit: I think their Ladies should follow the example—I do not know what new principles may have been adopted since I was at Philadelphia, or what the practice of those Ladies was. not more than one MacHenry kept a carriage. your situation in some respects, is different from those who have gone before you. you have resided so long abroad, and at different Courts, that you will be considerd as taking the lead. there will be a jealousy of you, that you are sitting up pretensions, which our “proud Republicans,” as Madam de Neuvile aptly calls them, will not Swallow—I would inquire of Mrs Munroe what had been her practice—and call a council of the Ladies of the other Secretaries, and act in concert. I know there was an attempt to bring this subject to a decision, while General Washington was President, but the Gentlemen always appeard to shrink from it—and to be so fearfull of the Hideous cry of monarchy, that they dared not exert their own dignity; about this period French democracy was, in its full vigor, and all distinction, was swallowd up in the cry, of Liberty and equalityI know the delicacy of your situation, and the circumspection necessary for you—while on the one hand, you would not wish to be considerd as seeking popularity. on the other, you would not exact homage from equals—I consider mr Adams and you, as a city sit upon a hill, where every Bird of prey will allight upon you—I would propose to have a new office created—a Master of Ceremonies—! Similar to a Garter-King at Arms, for with all our boasted Simplicity, there is not upon the Globe; a prouder people; or one more tenacious of Rank, and tittles, from the Subaltern, to the President of the united States, without the honesty to acknowledge it—The obnoxious word “well Born” which has rung as many changes in America; as Burks Swineish multitude has in England is founded in the principles of Human Nature—“In pride, in Reasoning Pride the Error lies”“All quit their sphere, and rush into the skies”I hope mrs Smith has a son, or daughter by this time—I expect one of the same grade in my own Family in due time—there is not any necessity in America, of adopting the Dey of Algiers Bastinado to promote Matrimony. I have heard of flagellation as a cure for madness, but never before to excite the tender passion—my Love to my son who I hope will not expose his health. excercise is better than bleeding if he can take it—but I fear he is obliged to too close application to business—If you was here to day I beleive you would feel the cold as much as you did in Russia; tho the weather is clear. I cannot keep warm before a large walnut fire—with the sun shineing into four windows—Gen’ll Forest whom you mention I was well acquainted with. He was one of Col Smiths Brides men when he was married—the Col. served in the Army with him, and Loved him as a Brother—I went once to visit him at his seat while I resided at Washington, accompanied by your Mother—I am glad to learn that a daughter of his, is so respectably married—As the Boys were here on thursday, they have contented themselves to stay in Town over Sunday.—the Bird and dog are both in fine health and spirits. we tollerate them for the Love we bear to John. the Bird is under no controul, and sings so loud, especially if we are reading as to be quite a Nuisance—he is a true worshiper of the riseing sun, and mr Booth is such a church going animal, that we are obliged to shut him up to prevent his disturbing the congregation.we all send Love, but the Severe Cold, is too much for us old peopleaffectionately your Mother

					Abigail Adams


Title: From John Quincy Adams to George Washington Adams, 1 March 1818
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, George Washington

				N. 4.
					My dear George.
					Washington 1. March 1818

				Your Letter of the 19th: of Last Month, informing me of your admission to the University gave me great Satisfaction; and as you are now fully enrolled among the Sons of Harvard, I hope you will make it your constant and earnest object to do honour to that Institution, by the regularity of your conduct, and the steadiness of your pursuitsYou say that in the Class which you have entered, emulation is carried almost to excess Let me caution you against too much emulation—Pursue your proper studies, ardently, and steadily without any reference to others. Always preserve your good humour with your Classmates; and be specially careful not to be envious of the success of any of them—Enter into no combinations, partial or general, for any purpose whatever—Be obliging and friendly to all; let the selection of your particular friends be marked by the propriety of their conduct, and their attention to their studies; but shape your own conduct, by your own sense of right, independent of all others—This firmness of character is quite as essential in the affairs of life, as good scholarship—The exercise of rendering the lessons of every day into elegant English, is a very useful one—Persevere in it, always with a view to improvement, and take care not to become self–conceited.Write me as you find leisure, a particular account of your studies—the distribution of them. The books, in which you recite—the lectures upon which you attend; and the particular objects in which you take the most satisfaction—Remember the motto which I have recommended for your first prize essay, and follow the advice of your Grandfather, to study more, and read less. I sent you yesterday a Letter, forwarded from London, and written as I conclude from the seal, by David Baker—I hope it will give you some information of your English School–mates.your affectionate father

					John Quincy Adams.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 9 March 1818
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Thomas Boylston

				N. 9.
					My dear Brother—
					Washington 9 March 1818—

				You have here enclosed, a draft on the United States Branch Bank at Boston to the order of Charles Newcomb, for 172 dollars 54 Cents, being the amount of dividends on the six and three per Cent Stocks due to him standing on the Books here, and for which I have signed receipts as his Attorney. The payment comes down to the second Quarter of 1816—inclusive—Upon the subject of the other application, for land I am not yet able to give you a definitive Answer.I thank you for your offer to become one of the bondsmen, upon the entrance of my Son George at the University—I have learnt by a Letter from him, that he has passed his examination and been admitted into the Freshman Class—I was disappointed in the hope that he would have got in, a year more advanced; and as hope beaten from one ground is always ready to seize upon another, I now begin to flatter myself that the fruits latest ripe, come to the best maturity.The whole of my US. Bank Stock has been disposed of; and the proceeds, are to be invested as occasion may serve—I am not however very anxious to replace it in Bank Stock of any kind—Mr J. L. Sullivan has been here—I would now give $200 a share for Canal Stock, and if you can procure me any at that price you may take it. / Your’s affectionately

					John Quincy Adams.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Henry Wheaton, 10 March 1818
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Wheaton, Henry

					Washington 10 March 1818.

				Mrs Adams requests the favour of Mr Wheaton’s company at Ten on Friday Eveng.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 15 March 1818
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					Dear Madam
					Washington 15 March 1818

				It is long since I wrote you in consequence of a very severe indisposition which confined me to my bed ten days and to my chamber more than a fortnight—The time thus passed of course afforded but little to relate and still less to interest—On Tuesday evening 10 of March I drank Tea with Mrs. Sergeant a most charming woman, the Wife of a member of Congress from Philadelphia—It was a social evening and I there met Mr & Mrs. Hunter of Rhode Island, Mrs. Ruggles Miss Duane, General Stevens of New York, and a Mr Baldwin. We made a party to go to the Supreme Court the next morning—In the course of the evening the Ladies informed me they heard I was anxiously looking for a Nurse as it was said I expected to be confined immediately—I mention this because I dare say you will hear some nonsense of the same kind— 11 This morning accompanied Mrs. Sergeant  her Sister Miss Buchanan and Madame de Neuville to the Supreme Court where we heard Mr: Webster a very fine speaker—he spoke four hours on the Dartmouth College business and I thought very much to the purpose after  I then paid a visit to Mrs Crawford and returned home to dinner. After dinner we dressed and sat waiting for the Carriage when the Servant came to inform us that the boy had let the Horses out of the Stable and they were not to be found. We were obliged to send for a Hack and arrived at the drawing Room rather late It was very thin and the company retired early—The President has been much indisposed The Influenza prevails here very much. We came home early Poor Mrs Frye’s twins were buried on Tuesday morning—She is as well as we could hope—12 I passed the morning at Mrs Boyd’s who is expecting hourly as well as Mrs. Smith The Horses were found three miles from us with the Harness all broke to pieces—In consequence of which I walked to Harriets and home it is distance of about two miles much of it up Hill and when I got home I was obliged to go to bed being exceedingly ill my head ached violently and nothing would stay on my stomach My last indisposition has reduced me so much the least exertion affects me—and I am becoming as sickly and tiresome as ever—The Winters are too severe for my constitution—If you hope to see Mr: Adams this Summer you must begin to urge him as from all I can discover there is but little hope of his going on—In this case I shall certainly expect to see my Boys during the Summer Vacation—At any rate I do not expect to be able to take the journey this year—13 I went to see Mrs. Frye and Mrs. Smith met Mrs Boyd and Mrs Hellen, at Mrs. Frye’s, she has refused Mr Monroe—I found them all pretty well but could not prevail on any of them to come and drink tea with me in the evening We had a party of about fifty consisting of the foreign Ministers and some of the Strangers lately arrived—We had some excellent Music—The entrance to my house is so bad the dutch Minister fell down and sprained his  ankle very much—14 Took Miss Buchanan to Mrs. Frye’s where she proposes to pass the night—Returned home early and amused myself with setting out some flowers in the Garden. spent the evening at home alone—15 This morning went to St John’s Church with a determination to lay aside all prejudice against Mr Hawley—but it is impossible to argue against conviction, and I returned as I went Mrs Decatur called on me told me another circumstance concerning him which I could scarcely believe; on Sunday last he informed congregation that he should give the Sacrament to any one that did not go and confess to him the week previous—Mrs. Monroe was at Church and Miss Gouverneur—Another Letter from Hanson about Lands belonging to my father ten thousand Acres in Virginia—


Title: From François Adriaan Van der Kemp to Abigail Smith Adams, 16 March 1818
From: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

My Dear and respected Madam!
Olden barneveld 15 March. 1818.

I was then once more honoured with your affectionate favour of the 27th favour—from which I receive a fresh proof, that you do justice to my feelings, and perceive, how highly I value Such distinguished marks of your attention. I regard these indeed as one of the great blessings, which a kind Providence bestows on my chequered life, and for which I can never be too ardently thankful, could I only reciprocate, what I so gratefully receive! but your condescending indulgence is to me a warrant, that even my good will—if my better efforts fail—is to you acceptable—and how deplorable, my Dear Madam! would our condition be, if we received nothing, as that, to which we were entitled by our own merits. Much—I know—I am indebted to my respected frend’s partial opinion, no less, and even modesty can not be hurt by this confession, to the amiable dispositions of that noble mind, which delights to encourage an humble admirer, whom you have favoured with your esteem, whom you have honoured with your frendship; and a John Quincy—who reveres you who loves you as his deare Mother—who is enraptured—when He calls you his frend—can appreciate the greatness of the gift, for which I am indebted to your goodness—Be this my Share in this life—till my last breath.
Yes, my Dear Madam! I lost mr Braÿ—I bewail his irreperable loss for his aged Parents, for his excellent wife—He was indeed a man of an eminent character—which even his modesty could not vail—his integrity commanded respect, and his amiable manners conquered by an irresistible force every one—who was favoured with his acquaintance. We have lost him—and within the time of one month, Dr Wistar—col. Walker were torn from my Side—you know, what it is—to bid farewel to those—So near our heart—I was with the latter the two last days of his useful life—That anguish—with which I then was tortured—can be conceived by you, can not be expressed—and yet—I am not yet quite alone—The Allmighty Spare in his mercy the valuable lifes—on whom So much of our happiness depends—but in this too—I will learn from your example to Submit and adore.
I hope, the writer of that Epistle, may find—when again at Quincy—an opportunity—to correct—to polish it. It is deserving his attention—every where it is already adorned with brilliant traits—but all these are overshadowed by the Pathetic address to his Mother—and—if I am permitted a conjecture, then She—would hesitate—one Single moment—with what reluctance the Sacrifice might be made—not to part with the whole—if the remaining 23 lines might be Secured—The remainder may prove the masterly performance of a bold artist, this delineates the affectionate Son—this I have copied from it—and considere the ensemble with the Same eye as the unfinished bust of Michel-Angelo.
I thank you, Madam! for inclosed address—but can add nothing to your high and deserved encomium upon it, as that I willingly Subscribe it. If the Judge visits you occasionally—procure me from him the Sight of a treatise of mr. Adams on feudal law—which he possesses, as my frend has informed me—I Shall return it with my thanks by a Save opportunity—
If my friend does possess an old Italian work—Ammaestramenti degli antichi—which Salviati calls a golden  book—I Should wish to peruse it.
This is the Severest winter—which I have passed in America—I hope—my respected frend may revive with the Spring—and—Send more Letters to Baltimore—I was highly pleased with that performance, as in former time I had received from him a few Scraps about that respectable Patriot—If mr. A. possesses more copies—So that he can Spare one of this and other Letters—published in that manner—I deem it not presumptuous to claim a copy of each Continue to gratify me with your affectionate esteem, and / permit me the assurance, that I remain with the highest respect / Dear and respected Madam / Your most obed. and obliged / Frend & St.

Fr. Adr. van der Kemp


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 17 March 1818
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					my Dear Daughter
					Quincy March 17th 1818

				I received your Letter of March 2d which has increased my anxiety to hear again from you, for a series of misfortunes Seem to have clustered around you. pray inform me how mrs Frye her Husband and Children are? I scarcly expect to hear the last are living. what a Scene you had to pass through? I do not wonder you were Sick—That Erysipelas which has Several times troubled you, is a very unpleasent visitors altho he appears in the Character of a Saint. I was once the Subject of his Devoirs, and was very glad that his visits were never repeated.—you do not mention mrs Smith, who I heard expected confinement in Feb’ry—Let me know how She is—and tell me if mrs Hellen has consented to take the widower, and his encumbrances?My Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren increase yearly. Here we have a Spring Bird; born in the House, a lively little  Susan has a daughter—She is very feeble. I do not think she was ever well after the accident She met with, in the winter; of cutting two of her fingers to the Bone, by the Glass of the Sleigh. they are cripled to this day—Last week we had, May in March—I presume it must have been Summer with you. I do quite long to get a Letter from my Son. I do not know whether he will approve of what his Father and I have assented to. mr Boylstone has Solicited so warmly to have the portrait of your Father to place in his House, that we have finally agreed that he should take it, with a promise from under his Hand that he will deliver it to you my son, when ever you he shall call for it, which promise I have in writing—He will take good care of it—Here it was in danger of getting injured—ask my Son who was the writer of a Letter addrest to a correspondent in New york, relative to Spanish Relations with the Unites States? it is ascribed here to the Secretary of State, be it whom it may it is a very able Letter—and will do much good—So you will not allow that you felt a little Angry at being the Subject of observation—why you must expect to pay a tax for being “esteemed the most Briliant Lady at Washington by all odds” This is the report of Gentleman of N york who attended your Ball. no doubt you will be looked up too, as a model by the fashionables—who know You have been presented at various Courts, in a public Character—and noticed by Emperors Empresses Kings Queens and Princesses—a distinction much more valued—than its real worth, in the estimation of many—but we must take the world as we find it—always paying due respect to public opinion—which seldom errs—Real affability and politeness, which is the Spontaneous result of good Breeding sits so easy and naturally upon you; that it must be envy alone which can assail you—to that turn a deaf Ear—remembering however that we may profit even from our EnemiesThe Citizens of the Town of Boston have fill’d a Subscription for a Bust of your Father. He is now Sitting, to an Artist. I think he will obtain a likeness—amongst the Negative votes in Senate, I own  not expect to find Sullivan, Pickman & Saltstone—as to the others,  Men who knew not Joseph—George was here on Sunday. he was very well and appeard to be very happy and Satisfied—I excluded the other children for a week or two, as we wanted quiet and a Still House—I expect however to see them on SaturdayMy Love to my dear Son—I hope he will not get over plyed—Louissa and Susan request to be kindly Rememberd to you—ever your affectionate Mother

					Abigail Adams


Title: From Charles Thomas Clark to Sarah Smith Adams, 23 March 1818
From: Clark, Charles Thomas
To: Adams, Sarah Smith

					My Dear Mother
					U.S. Ship Washington—23d: March 1818.—

				It has been much longer since I wrote to you than I intended. The opportunities by which I have sent letters to dear Susan have been unexpected and sometimes I have scarcely had time to write to her; and I know that she would always inform you and my other friends of my situation. I wrote to her the other day by a vessel going to the rock of Gibralter. My health has very much improved notwithstanding the disadvantage of the voyage to England at so unfavourable a season. By the advice of the physicians of the Squadron I have given over exposing myself on board ship and sh have resided in Messina two months. It is a large town on the island of Sicily where the celebrated Scylla and Charybdis are; opposite to the Calabrian shore. It is said to be healthy in summer but in winter the changes are more frequent than any place in the U. States. I had determined to go to Rome or Pisa and as the Washington sailed yesterday for Naples I have taken passage in her. I believe I shall leave her there and go from thence to Rome. It is said she will go home and if it be to Boston I will be able to send some little curiosities to my dear Wife. I sent some little things by a vessel from Messina; but those were none very rare .—I am in hopes the warm weather now coming on I shall get entirely rid of my cough. I will not go to any place where I cannot readily receive letters; for I have none yet and my anxiety encreases every day to hear from dear Susan. I trust I shall get letters soon for I have suffered a good deal in knowing what she must suffer. If it had pleased God that I could have remained with her in her tender situation it would have been a blessing I should have been most grateful for. It has been a severe trial to us both and I fondly hope to be repaid by our meeting, when I shall be doubly blessed by the sight of my child. I have suffered so much from leaving her that should my health be restored I have determined to relinquish a profession to enjoy and improve in which the mind must become callous and indifferent to every endearing domestic tie. If my nation could ever have become so perverted the time is now past and my dear wife and child require that attention in which duty and inclination are most intimately combined. I am well aware that it will require exertions to support them; but to do that any situation is preferable to my present. If I can obtain a tolerable means of subsistence on shore I will not neglect it for I now know I have no resources of my own to depend on other than personal exertions.—If we have a wind we shall be in Naples tomorrow. I shall have an opportunity of seeing places the antiquities and unequaled beauties of which would once have filled me with rapture and delight. I now consider them only as in the light of my being restored to that health which is so necessary for my dear wife and child. My anxiety and uneasiness now (in despight of my exertions) are greater every day and it will be a long long time before I shall be made easy. In the Merciful Providence of God I trust.Give my love and best wishes to Mrs. Johnson, if I could meet with a safe opportunity I would send her a Leghorn bonnet which are very fine here. My love also to Miss Smith and when I next see her I hope I shall not require that kind nursing; which if I required did here I should not experience and for which I shall ever be so grateful: also to Mr: Johnson and his Father and Mother, and a kiss to John and Alexander. I hope dear mother that you have enjoyed good health through the winter: the warm weather will soon enable you to take exercise.I am with the most affectionate wishes / Your Son

					Chars: T. Clark


Title: To John Adams from Ward Nicholas Boylston, 24 March 1818
From: Boylston, Ward Nicholas
To: Adams, John

					My Dear Cousin
					Hermitage Jamaica plain 24 March 1818

				That I may prove to you and my Dear Mrs Adams, the high estimation of the value I attach to the picture you have confided to my care—I sent immediately for a blacksmith, and had an Iron fender made to go round the lower part, as a protection from the careless brush, of the House maid, or the incautious foot of those who might otherwise wish to come too near it—The room is every day aird, and the door kept lock’d, and the key in Mrs: Boylstons pocket, and no one sufferd to see it, without either she, or myself are with them—As soon as it’s known that I am the possessor of it, I shall expect to be visited by all the amatuers of the fine arts, in Boston and its vicinity, and assume the office of Sir Clement Cotterell (who I conclude was the master of Ceremonies at St James in your day;) to Introduce all the strangers of distinction who may visit Boston; to an acquaintance with the portrait, when they arent so fortunate as to be known to the originalI must however, beg your permission to disscontinue the Levee days from next thursday, to the Wednesday following, as I am compeld to be at Princeton till the last mentiond day—In the Interim, no eye shall penetrate beyond the key hole—on our return we promise ourselves the pleasure of greeting you at Quincy—accept in the interim Mrs Boylston’s sincere regards to Mrs Adams & yourself—and believe me always hers, & your— / affectionate Cousin

					Ward Nichs. Boylston

					PS Be so kind as to tell Mrs Adams, that her favorite Hobby, improves every day, both in good looks, and my estimation, in as much, that we divide our daily bread together every morning, which I dare say reminds him of the same tokens of regard he experienced at Quincy—


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 30 March 1818
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					My dear Mother
					Washington 30 March 1818.

				In my last I think I informed you that the news of this place was become so little interesting that my journal must cease added to which my health has become so unequal I am seldom well two days together—The last week we had a party of twenty at dinner consisting of Mr: & Mrs.Otis, Mr: Mason, Mr. & Mrs. Sears, Miss Perkins, Mr. & Mrs: Tucker of Virginia, Govr. & Mrs. Middleton of South Carolina, Mr Roberts of the Senate, Govr. Dickerson, Mr: Johnson N. O. Mr Lacork, Mr: Sanford Genl. Smith & Govr. Bloomfield—The dinner was extremely pleasant and every one appeared social and satisfied—The next day I found myself much indisposed hoping the air might be of service I went out to ride but on returning found myself so ill I was obliged to go to bed which I could not leave again for two days and did not feel strong enough to entertain company on Friday Evening as I had intended—On Saturday Mr. A. was desirous I should go to the French Ministers and accordingly I sat out with Mr Watmough one of the handsomest young men in America, he is brother to Mrs. Sergeant a most lively and amiable Woman the Wife of the Gentleman who went to England a year or two ago on the Bank business—He is a man of very superior talents and it is altogether a most charming family—Among the events of this week none have produced such a sensation as the South American question in the House of R. The Speaker came out in fine Style and produced the most interesting debate there has been this year—however as it has become the fashion to talk of my journal I must say nothing on this subject as I am already suspected of saying more than I ought—The wonder of the day is Mr. Holley who last Sunday gave us a most brilliant discourse in the Hall of Congress and who has excited the most enthusiastic admiration in almost all his hearers—The effect of his Sermon was astonishing, he was listened to with profound attention and you might almost perceive the joy of renewed and extatic hope beaming  from the eyes of those who are habitually accustomed to hear of naught but Hell and all its terrors—He dwelt upon the unbounded mercies of our great Creator and descanted with eloquence almost sublime upon his excellence and his greatness and it appeared to me almost impossible for any thing possessing a human soul not to ascend with him in imagination to those celestial regions where all is peace and love—where perfection too dazzling for the narrow mind of man is alone to be found. Mr. Holley with such powers of fascination as he possesses both in his manners his personal accomplishments and his theories is a very dangerous man, and I can never believe that the time can arrive, when the state of the world at large, that is the great mass of society, can be sufficiently enlightened either to understand or to detect their fallacy—The nature of man is such, his passions through all the stages of his existence are so difficult to curb, his temptations to sin are so manifold, his vanity and his presumption are unmeasured and so arrogant, he can only be restrained by fear, and this fear can only be inspired by that conviction of a being superior in the highest degree to himself which is I believe implanted in every human being—and that faith in the just exercise of that great authority, to punish Sin and to reward virtue—He took occasion frequently to prove that his doctrine was founded on the broadest and most liberal basis, and like most of us when indulging a favorite idea, forgot or was totally unaware, that while exerting this great liberality to all mankind, he was betraying the grossest illiberality towards the great and Almighty Creator, whom he professes to adore and whose power in the plentitude of his Wisdom this earthly worm pretends to limit—Why should he doubt the Trinity? is there any thing more wonderful in that to the mind of man than in all the glorious works of nature? is there a thing in existence that is not a miracle? and can God perform all miracles save that one?—I have read but little, I have digested less, but nature herself points out this solemn fact, and we need nothing but the commonest observation and dailey experience of our lives, to see and feel that to him who reigns above you heaven all is possible, and that if it is ordained that we should remain in darkness upon some great point of our religion, it is because our nature is incapable of a high state of perfection while our souls are shackled by the drop  of earth, and that state can only be attained through the passage of death to life eternal in the full faith of his boundless power and infinite mercy—I believe in faith and works jointly and am not at all of Mr. Hawley’s opinion that good works will naught avail—I am said here to be a Unitarian—I confess I hardly know what to call myself but this I never can admit that I am either a free thinker (I shudder at the bare idea), or what is properly understood a philosopher on religious subjects—I have to apologize my dear Mother for this Letter the subject led me on insensibly and I can only entreat you to pardon any thing you may disapprove—I am sorry to learn by your Letter that Mrs. Clark is so much indisposed congratulate her for me on the birth of her daughter which must be an interesting little plaything for you and give my love to Louisa—Mrs Smith is not confined and it is impossible for us to guess when it will take place she is however much better in health Mrs Boyd expects in a fortnight and is very unwell—My friendly saint still visits me occasionally, and our acquaintance is I  believe so permanently established, that I shall be obliged to receive his visits the rest of my day, however unwelcome It would afford me pleasure could I put him on a footing of ettiquette as that would probably be a means of discarding him altogether and I should really not grieve to shake off his ardent professions of friendship—How ignoble for the most brilliant lady of Washington to make a pun! Poor Washington the brilliancy of its Ladies it seems is rated pretty much in the manner it is as a City—but I will not expose its nakedness—Present me most affectionately to my father and tell him I shall ever be anxious to deserve his love and merit his esteem. Yours Respectfully

					L. C. A.

					I forgot to mention that at Mr de Neuvilles party on Saturday we met a Chinese who favoured us with a Chinese Song which produced such a roar of laughter that the poor man went out of the room crying as Madame de Neuville says “I have a shame. I am afraid we somewhat injured the reputation of Washington for politeness but it was born and bred to bear the taunts and scoffs of the world and I dont think it is in danger of growing more barren—I have a dinner of twenty people again on Thursday and can get nothing but a piece of roast Beef and some SoupOn Sunday evening I drank tea at Mrs. Middletons with a small party—The President left his room for the first time on that day—Mr Sergeant spent an hour with us last evening—his family left Washington to day. Congress is to adjourn the 20 next Month. and I am not sorry to have a little rest.—My Boys scarcely ever write—excepting Charles and he  is very punctual—


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Harriet Welsh, March 1818
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Welsh, Harriet

					Dear Harriet
					March 1818

				I beleive you thought me very imprudent to consent to the Presidents going to Town So cold a day as yesterday—but the cold increased much after the morning and I was quite anxious untill he returnd—much pleased and gratified with his days excursion there is Such a thing as Staying at Home untill it becomes wearisome to us change of place, or dear variety compose part of our happinessI enclose you the last journal—and mr vanderkemps Letter. poor mrs A——s is Sadly beset with preachers go where She will—I really pitty a liberal minded person obliged to hear what they cannot beleive, and must abhor—what do you think of mr vanderkemps translating 40 folio volms? I hope they will pay him well—give my Love to mrs Crufts when you See and tell her I hope she will come & take Quincy air as Soon as the Spring opens. upon calculation we have found more old people living in this place than in any Town between here & Boston. there are ten or Eleven between 70 & 80 within half a mile of us—But the only line of Ossian which made a deep impression upon my mind is that in which he Says “old Age is dark & unlovely” Yet it is what Human nature covets—when I took my pen, I thought only of writing a line to ask you to get me a yd of Line as good as you may find for 6 or 76 pr yd for a Small cap. if the weather is fine the Boys may come as the Sleighing is So good. I do not think it worth while for them to bring their every day cloaths. it only makes a Bundle to Send back as they return on Sunday—Yours as ever

					A A—

					Susan has a terrible cold much opprest upon her lungs


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 5 April 1818
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Charles Francis

					My Dear Charles
					Washington 5 April 1818

				The observations which you make in your Letter to me of the 29 March on the Books you have been  reading are just and prove that you derive advantage from your application, and that you digest, and reflect upon the subject of your at author There is a striking similarity between that part of Scottish Chiefs which you mention and Telemachus and from both these much instruction is to be derived—As you have finished it would perhaps be worth your while to read Robertson’s Scotland and his other historical works which are highly interesting and which you may procure from your Brother George—I have also read Rob Roy and agree with you in opinion The beginning is a little tedious and the end very abrupt but it is admirably well written and the language elegant The principall principal objection I have to W. Scotts novel’s are that his hero’s and heroines are almost always vicious and that he still paints them in so interesting a light that it is difficult even while you are aware of their great defects to restrain your admiration of their few good qualities Their vices are softened down by the blaze of a few romantically generous acts which perswade the imagination and destroy that horror of vice which properly depicted must ever inspire—Thus it is with Mr. Gregor, with Hellen, and though least defective with Diana Vernon, who in real life instead of exciting love and admiration, would produce little or no sensation but disgust or pity, for Woman can never infringe the laws of decorum and modesty, without losing the brightest charm which can adorn her Sex—Rob  Roy and his Wife are people who in consequence of misfortunes have been  reduced to a state of the utmost distress and suffering; but who instead of placing their firm reliance in heaven have taken the power of revenging themselves into their own hands, and by this means have rushed into the greatest crimes and the most horrid deeds: and divest them of the high colouring and shewy dress of the Author, and you find him a common thief and her a cold blooded murderer—It is thus my dear Charles that you must analyse what you read and understand the moral of the books which fall into your hands—The character of Rashleigh is seen in all its native deformity and we naturally loath the unnatural monster—All Miss Edgeworth’s works are interesting admirably well written and affording the purest moral—Tell George I would recommend him to read ‘Forrester’—Continue to write me your father will answer you as soon as he is able—Miss Elle Nicholas in a Letter which we lately received desires to be particularly remembered to you all—Continue to write to me, continue to improve, and be assured of the love and approbation of your affectionate Mother

					L. C. Adams

					This is a shockinly written Letter my dear Charles but I am so tired I cannot write you a better at present—


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 14 April 1818
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Thomas Boylston

					My dear Brother.
					Washington 14. April 1818.

				I thank you, for giving the necessary Bonds for the entrance of my Son George at the University and am very glad he is there—Market Projects, have lost most of their attractions for me—I desire to have nothing to do with that which is in contemplation, till something comes in the shape of returns from the other. I yesterday received a Letter from Messrs: R. P. & C. Williams of Boston, Booksellers. They say their mother was of the family of Boylston, and they make proposals for taking a lease for ten years of my whole house in Court Street, with Liberty to make alterations to suit their own business. They give hints about a rent of 6 or 700 dollars a year, to commence, from the expiration of Homer’s lease—I might refer them to you; and if they will give just double the rent at which they hint, they may have the house on a lease for ten years; but with a covenant not to under lease any part of it, without my consent, or that of my agent—See them, and talk with them about it—They say something too about purchasing the place; whereupon, tell them they shall have it for $20.000. securing payment by a mortgage upon the place itself, and bond upon interest—Payment of the principal, by instalments of two thousand dollars a year.Congress have only the reminder of this week to sit—After they rise I may write you more frequently and more at length—The Aurora has fallen into its old habit of lying about me, by instinct—Not one line of the publications at which it has been day after day raving for many weeks, as issuing from the Department of State, did go from it, directly or indirectly—The Letters about Amelia Island are well written, and from a masterly hand—Not one line of them was written by me—The Letter first published in the New-York Evening Post, I never saw nor heard of till after it had been some time in print—I have to this day nothing but conjecture with regard to its author—The Aurora labours in its vocation—It cannot name me, without annexing a lye to the mention of my name.I will send you a National Register, as soon as it is published; and if I can procure them, the numbers of the National Intelligencer containing the five Letters upon the affairs of Amelia Island, the High-life below stairs of South America—The South American struggles, are now, of nearly ten years standing; but there has been so little difference of opinion in this Country upon any thing connected with them, that until the commencement of Mr Monroe’s Administration, it was scarcely possible to raise a debate about them. But our political mint is issuing a new coinage. The images stamped upon the circulating medium of party were all completely worn out, like those of the old English Shillings—So they are called in, melted down, and reissued with a new image and legend—A very laborious effort has been made, at this session of Congress, with a sympathetic, and corresponding exertion out of doors to make the contest between Spain and South America, an apple of discord among ourselves. After eight or nine years of singular inattention, and carelessness about South American Affairs, all of a sudden starts up a sort of political Peter the Hermit, and exclaims—“eighty-eight degrees of Latitude!—eighteen millions of virtuous Patriots!—Spanish tyranny and oppression!—Atlantic and Pacific Oceans! Mountains and Rivers! Sir Gregor M’Gregor, Amelia Island and Commodore Away!” And then, our neutrality has been all on one side—And then Bills of Indemnity for the past and of security for the future for the benefit of Pirates! and then Expatriation bills for the benefit of future Benedict Arnolds, who may be inclined to expatriate themselves and surrender West-Point for instance to the enemy by one and the same act! And then a Battery opened upon the Administration for suppressing a gang of Buccaneers; and for feuding Commissioners to obtain information and ascertain facts—And last of all—Appropriations of outfit and Salary for a Minister to the Republic of La Plata—With interludes of Vicente Pazos deputy from     all the Republics of the South, with his Memorial to Congress against the President, and Vicente Pazos, petitioner, for himself and friends, against the cruel operation of the Courts of Law.The Labour of this mountain has been so hard, the agonies of its throes have been so comulsive, and there has yet been so much of burlesque intermingled with the commotion, that people are yet looking about them and enquiring whether it is to end in the explosion of a volcano, or in the parturition of a mouse. The struggle in South-America, is savage and ferocious almost beyond example It is not the tug of war between Greek and Greek, but the tyger-conflict between Spaniard and Spaniard—The Cause has never been the same in any two of the revolting Colonies—Independence has not even been the pretext during great part of the time—Sometimes they have fought for Ferdinand; sometimes for the Cortes—Sometimes for Congresses and Constitutions, and sometimes for particular leaders, like Morales, Hidalgo, Artigas, or Bolivar—The resemblance between this Revolution and ours is barely superficial. In all their leading characters the two Events, present a contrast, instead of a parallel—Ours was a War of freemen, for political Independence—This is a War of Slaves against their masters—It has all the horrors and all the atrocities of a servile War—That there are among the Patriots men of Virtue and of Talents, there is no doubt—and so there are among the negroes of Haÿti—The State Papers of King Christophe, and his Counts of Limonade and Marmelade, are as eloquent, and just as profound as the manifesto’s of Bolivar and Pueyrredon—The Common places of political Liberty, have been so hackneyed throughout Europe and America, for the last forty years, that idiots even have them all by heart—There is not a parrot but can repeat them with variations suited to the time and place—The South-Americans have occasionally fabricated, and are now fabricating Constitutions but in the whole History of their Revolutions, there is not an instance, in which the Patriot commanders have shewn the slightest respect for individual rights or personal liberty—There is no more liberty of the Press at Buenos Ayres than at Madrid—Once in the course of our Revolution it was proposed in Congress to invest General Washington with dictatorial powers for a few Months—yet the proposition was rejected—In South-America, every petty chieftain is a dictator, and puts down Congresses and Constitutions, with as little ceremony as Praise god Barebones put down the Rump Parliament, or as Buonaparte put down the Council of five hundred at St Cloud—Sir Gregor M’Gregor constitutes a Republic of the Florida’s at Amelia-Island—Issues Letters of Marque and Acts of Naturalization—establishes Admiralty Courts, and Collectors of the Customs; distributes the Public Lands of Florida, and hoists a National Flag, under which Citizens of the United States are told they may lawfully plunder Spanish property, and we have suffered Vicente Pazos to tell us that we had no right to enquire into the competency of his authority—Avry, whose only Commission was that of a Lieutenant in the Navy of New-Grenada, takes a power from Herrera, nominal ex-minister Plenipotentiary from an extinct Mexican Congress, turns a sand bank at Galvezton into a Seaport, makes Custom House Officers Admiralty Courts Privateers and Prizes, with as little restrain as M’Gregor, and when broken up in his best of piracy, sends Vicente Pazos, a Peruvian, Patriot Printer; banished from Buenos Ayres, by the Patriot Pueyrredon,  as Ambassador of all the Republics of the South, to impeach the conduct of the President, before the House of Representatives of the United States. Surely to compare these Heroes and Legislators, with Sancho and his Buonartorias doing injustice to the wisdom, and moderation of the sagacious Squire of the valiant Knight of La Mancha—In all this Tragi-Comedy of passion for South-America, which is acting in our Country, there is an underplot, as yet but partially disclosed.Will you be good enough to inform Mr G. Apthorp, that 1500 thorn plants fit for setting out have been shipp’d in the Enterprize, Captain Marrick, bound to Boston, addressed to him, and to the care of R. D. Tucker & Co. I hope they will arrive in Season; but it was not practicable to send them sooner. The vessel sailed from Georgetown last week.With affectionate regards to your wife and family, I am yours

					J. Q. Adams.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to John Adams Smith, 19 April 1818
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Smith, John Adams

					Dear Sir.
					Washington 19. April 1818.

				Mr John Edwards Holbrook the bearer, is a Gentleman recommended to me, as of a highly respectable character, nephew of George Edwards Esqr. of Charleston, South Carolina—He is going to Scotland, and afterwards to London, with the intention of completing a medical education, and other views of liberal improvement and curiosity. I beg leave to recommend him to your kind attentions, and if necessary, official Services, and to those of Mr Rush. I am with great regard, Dear Sir, your very obedt Servt.

					John Quincy Adams.


Title: From John Adams to John Adams, April 1818
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John

Mr Dear Child
Quincy April 1818

I am much pleased with your Translation The Character of Anacreon is one of the many Mysteries of Antiquity which the Researches of your whole life will not be able to unridle.
He did well to renounce the Heroes for he either knows nothing of the Sons of Atreous of Cadmus the Theban King or of Hercules and his twelve Labours or if he knows any Thing he dared not tell what he knows.
It is however agreed that in voluptuous Poetry he has never been exceeded in the Long Track of Time from more than 500 before Christ to this 19th Centuary La Frontain himself never equalled him in delicacy No nor the Irish Voluptoary Moor
But if I mistake not your Nature John You have in your little head contemplations of Deeds of higher Renoun than the frivolus Amusements of Love and Wine
You will never Say with Miltons LiberationGive us Love Gods and WineOr take what you gaveMajora Canamus. So advises and s prays Your / affectionate Grandfather
John Adams


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 2 May 1818
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					My dear Mother
					Washington 2 May 1818.

				My health has been so indifferent and the City is so flat since the adjourment of Congress that I cannot find materials for a Letter—It is difficult for me to say what the nature of my indisposition as the Doctor cannot ascertain it no more than myself but I believe general weakness and a slight attack of what they here call chills and fevers has been my chief complaint and the latentness and languor which it always produces has caused the report of my being likely to encrease my family and which report I have taken pains to contradict and which my Letters were intended to prevent your crediting but produced exactly the contrary effectI believe I wrote you that Mrs. Boyd was safely brought to bed of her seventh Son, six of whom are living—She is by no means well having a very ugly cough which makes us very uneasy—The President has been out of town for a few days but is expected to return to day—Mrs Smith continues much the same—her spirits are very good and she is waiting the event most patiently—You will I fear not see Mr Adams this Summer he says he has so much business he does not think he can go on it is a great disappointment as I have anticipated this journey with much pleasure ever since I quitted you and I am sure I should derive great benefit from the change of air and the exercise in addition to the delight of again seeing you and my Children—The City is rappidly improving this Summer and Land here is becoming very valuable and many gentlemen are speculating largely—Congress were not very liberal towards us and we remain in status quo which however was in consequence of two of the Senators being rather too much inclined to partake of the good things of this world at the french Ministers—not satisfied with being allowed to participate of the dinner they were led on to spend the evening and the consequence was the loss of the motion or bill—I am sorry to hear that Mrs. Clark’s health has suffered so much but hope the fine weather which we must soon expect will restore her—Mr. Cruft has written to me to say he expects soon to come on here  I am very sorry to find that it is in consequence of the dreadful state of health of Mrs. Cruft.remember  me to my father, and to Louisa assured of the respectful attachment of your

					L. C. A—


Title: From François Adriaan Van der Kemp to Abigail Smith Adams, 4 May 1818
From: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					My Dear and respected Madam!
					Olden barneveld 4 May 1818.

				I hail this happy day—the Snow and rain can not lessen my enjoyment—I arose chearfully and thanked a bountiful God—when my Son delivered me your affectionate Letter, which giveth a new zest to my delightful feelings—you intended to assuage the heart rending pangs of Sorrow—which had been already Soothed by a Sense of religion—by the noble example of my amiable Daughter in Law—who has learned to Submit and adore—while your friendship opens a rich Spring not of comfort only—but of voluptuous pleasure—yet my Dear Madam! you bring a voluntary offer on the altar—erected this day for our family—to remember the numerous undeserved blessings bestowed upon us with profusion—among which is of the first magnitude—the uninterrupted, and I foster the notion & increased friendship of you and that of your consort. This day is the anniversary of my 30th year’s residence in this country and of the 66 of my age—and do you not participate in my joy, as you did in mÿ sorrow—God forbid—that I could ever doubt it—Mrs. v. d. k. and my daughter are composed. this too is chiefly caused by the tidings of Philadelphia—and I—would—could it be bought at my own expence, render the last days of that worthy wife, to which I am So deeply indebted—and who approaches her 72. if not pleasant at least comfortable. My task must Soon be over—and my mind is in unison with yours, although willing to lay the last hand to it, yet I feel, if my heart does not impose upon me no Shadow of reluctance at quitting a Scene—on which I only remain attended by a few—who feel themselves interested in my existence.My health Seems firm—tho the Records injure my Sight—I have few wishes—only—and one I dare entrust to your breast—that is—if your days and those of my respected frend are to be prolonged, that I might once more—before our final departure—pass a few days under your roof—and—if, by any unforeseen event it is placed in my power—I Shall indulge it and appear before you—without Standing So awkwardly aghast, as I Stood in 1813—Mrs v. d. k—and my Daughter requested me to assure of their respect, and consider themselves honoured by your remembrance Last week I received per mail The Transac: vol. III  P. 2—The first part has not arrived—If it is yet at Quincy—my frend ought to write his name in it. Part 2 was wrapped in Brown paper—I hope not, that I have abused your indulgence—the day must be my apologÿ in Scribbling So much—I glory in the title you honour me with—and wish to deserve it—and wish—I can not conquer these wishes, I might personally assure you—that, what Sincere tribute of homage is paid to you—none can be more ardently, more chearfully   offered than that from— / My Dear & respected Madam! / Your devoted and obliged Frend!

					Fr. Adr. vander Kemp


Title: From John Quincy Adams to John Adams, 10 May 1818
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

					My dear Son.
					Washington 10. May 1818.

				Your dear Mother has this day received your Letter of the 3d: instant, which gave us both much pleasure; for various reasons—First because it gave us the gratifying intelligence of what you call Charles’s promotion—Secondly because it is a proof of your brotherly kindness to him, that you take the opportunity of writing to let us know of his success, which you know we have as well as your own very near at heart. And thirdly because the Letter has the appearance of being in your own hand-writing, and is carefully written, differing much from the last Letter which had been received before; bearing your signature; which was so carelessly and so badly written, that we could scarcely believe it came from you.You observe that your schoolmates seem to think that Mr Gould favours your brother and you; and if so, I trust it is on account of your good conduct and assiduity in your studies. As you are both boys of good dispositions, I doubt not you will feel this kindness of Mr Gould, as an inducement not only to persevere, but still to improve in your studious industry and your discreet deportment; shewing your gratitude to Mr Gould, by deserving the continuance of his favour.If Charles is now nearly as far advanced as you was when you left Ealing School, I hope he will be fitted for the University, in less than four years; though I am not desirous that he should enter sooner than three years from next Commencement. I had flattered myself that you would have been prepared to enter this year—How say you? will you be ready to pass examination, next Commencement, or must you have another year?—Another Question—How do you make progress in your arithmetic, which used to be your favourite study; are you still as fond of it as at Ealing?The last time you were all measured, was on Charles’s last birth-day year’s birth-day—the day of our arrival at Quincy. George was five feet seven inches and a half. you was four feet nine inches and a half and Charles four feet four—We hear that you are growing very fast—Write me how tall you are now.And above all be careful as you increase in stature, to grow still more in knowledge and virtue—which while it will lay a solid foundation for your welfare here, and your happiness hereafter, will be among the most precious enjoyments of your ever affectionate father

					John Quincy Adams.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to George Washington Adams, 11 May 1818
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, George Washington

					Washington 11 May 1818

				I am not sure my Dear George whether your last Letter was answered or not but at any rate you will not be much grieved at receiving another supposing that to have been the case as in that Letter you assure me that both my Letters and my advice are of consequence to you and afford you pleasure—Upon this ground then I shall continue writing as I have much more time than you have and send you a Letter whenever the writing fit is on me—I am now reading a book that I think would interest you very much could you read it during your vacation It is Doctor Franklins Memoirs  published by the Gentleman you saw in England—The rise and progress of this great man is truely surprizing and though some of the events of his life appear to be buried in obscurity yet there is a large portion of it laid open to public view which  is calculated to excite the admiration and ambition of young men and to form a model on which they can both amend and improve—He does not like Rousseau thrust his vices with unblushing impudence upon the public nor does he paint himself a “faultless Minster that the world neer saw” and satiate you with his perfections but he lays some excellent plans to promote the habits of virtue and to improve the heart the mind and the manners which I believe to be well adapted to the purpose and should by all means recommend the trial of them to my children were it only with a view to accustom them to watch and detect those little th failings which though at first apparently trifling soon grow into mighty faults and render us odious to those who surround us—His advice on most subjects is excellent and generally drawn from the best school that of experience it is therefore worthy of the greatest attention—Washington is as flat and gloomy as possible and I have scarcely seen a soul since  the week before last—I shall send your Review on if I find an opportunity in the meanwhile be assured of the affection of your Mother

					L. C. A.

					I am glad to find my Watch is come safe I hope you have got it—Mr. Storrow gave it to Dr. Waterhouse—


Title: From John Quincy Adams to George Washington Adams, 18 May 1818
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, George Washington

				N.5.
					My dear Son.
					Washington, 18 May 1818.

				I direct this Letter to Quincy, concluding that you will be there during the Vacation which commenced last Friday—My last Letter to you, was dated the first of March, since which I have received only one from you—dated the 26th. of April. It would have given me pleasure to have received that which you wrote me on your birth-day; and if instead of giving it to Mrs: Gilman’s boy, you had taken it to the Post-Office yourself, no doubt I should have received it in seasonable time—You conclude that its miscarriage was “rather the effect of the mischance than of negligence”—This, my dear George, is “laying flattering unction to your Soul.” It was negligence to trust the Letter to Mrs Gilman’s boy; whose business it was not, to carry your Letters to the Post-Office—It was negligence, after having given the Letter to him, to let a fortnight, or even a day pass, without enquiring of him, whether he had carried it or not. nd if you had asked that question, the Letter might have been sent and received, still in due Season. Among the earliest Books that were put into your hands to read, while you were at Atkinson, was Mason, upon Self-knowledge—Pray does that writer say any thing of the natural propensity of the mind, to throw off from itself, upon others, or upon chance the disasters with which it is itself justly chargeable? If he does not, let me urge you to reflect upon it very seriously, and to draw from it lessons of Prudence for yourself—You will never derive any advantage, when any disappointment, great or small, happens to you, by attributing it all to mischance—But if upon every such occasion you ask yourself, “have not I, by my own neglect, or error, occasioned this result”? and if you will answer that question to yourself, impartially, and without self-delusion, you cannot fail to derive benefit from such Self-examination; and will make even your faults lessons of wisdom and virtue.How it happened that my Letter to you, of 1. March, did not reach you till the 21st. of that Month, I do not know—It was sent from hence a day or two after it was written—Perhaps it had been laying sometime at the Post-Office in Cambridge before you called for it.The account which you give me of your studies, with your Class, since you entered College is very gratifying; and I approve highly your determination  to apply with equal assiduity to every portion of the duties assigned to you—The opinions you have formed of the merits of Livy’s composition are generally just; but you have admitted rather hastily the idea that he is chargeable with extreme credulity.—The supposed miracles which abound in his History, are no doubt to us merely ridiculous; but to him they had the venerable sanction of religion—The Romans were from the beginning a superstitious People; and so were all the celebrated Nations of Antiquity Livy repeats the tales of wonder, which were recorded in the antient annals, from which his work was necessarily compiled—among the Romans they had become articles of religious faith—And yet, Livy himself, gives notice, that reporting these marvelous incidents he barely takes them from the antiquated Records, as he finds them, without vouching for their authenticity.As you will be almost immediately after receiving this Letter, about returning to College, I shall be glad to hear from you, as often as you can find time to write, without encroaching  upon your hours of study—I shall be particularly desirous of information concerning your exercises of composition—You mentioned in a Letter to your Mother, that you had translated an Ode of Horace given you as an exercise, into verse; and that your version had been approved. Send me a copy of it, if you have one.It will be perhaps advisable that after next Commencement you should reside at College—and in that case, it will be necessary to attend in due time to two things—One, the means for obtaining a chamber, and the other the mutual choice of chamber-mate—Do not fail to write to me on the subject, and take good advice concerning itWe have received, two Numbers of the North-American Review; but you need not give yourself the trouble of forwarding any more; as we have other opportunities of receiving it here.We have a few days since received Letters, with information of the death of your Aunt Pope, at Frankfort, Kentucky—She had been several Months in declining Health.I am, Dear George, your affectionate father.

					John Q. Adams


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 18 May 1818
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Thomas Boylston

				N. 11
					My Dear Brother
					Washington 18 May 1818

				On examining the Register which you sent me, I find that your Court sits at Nantucket the second and at Edgar Town the third Monday in May—This Letter may therefore find you, upon your return home—At the same time I trust you may will also receive the Register just published here, and also the Intelligencers containing the five Letters on Amelia Island.You  must give me more particular information before I can receive the dividends of Stock, for our father, to effect which you sent me his power of Attorney—There are no dividends of interest standing on the Books here iether in his name or in that of the North American Insurance Company You have not mentioned the Quarter nor the time when that Company relinquished their charter.—I had no knowledge of any such Company.The old Revolutionary Soldiers turn out in greater numbers than the Legislators expected; when they passed the late Law in their favour—The principal amount of this benefaction will travel North East; which if it should not be discovered before the beginning of the next  Session of Congress will be a further proof of the liberality of that body.Since the adjournment of Congress, I have made leisure to take a view of my private concerns, and have reviewed your account for the year 1817—The new account, from the time of our settlement last September is correct in substance, and as there is no further account occasion for keeping a separate account for the Middlesex Canal Shares Agency, that of the present year may commence with the balance of $:1350.4.But the great defect in your account of 1817 is that while you intended in it to close the open account between us which had been running during the whole period of my absence in Europe it actually shews no such transaction—It contains no traces of our settlement on the 8th. of September; neither shewing the balance which was due, nor having any reference to your two notes of $5000, and of $600 by which that balance was discharged—It takes no notice of the interest, upon the annual balances which had remained in your hands from December 1813 to October 1816, the date of your note for 5000 dollars, which was to be added to the debit side, nor of the additional 2 1/2 per Cent upon the receipts and payments during the same periods which I agreed should be added to the credit side of the account