Title: To John Adams from Samuel Adams, 22 December 1775
From: Adams, Samuel
To: Adams, John

      Philadelphia Decr. 22 1775
      My dear Sir

     My Concern for your Welfare induced me carefully to watch the Weather till I conjectured you had got to the End of your Journey, and I have the Pleasure of believing it has been more agreable than one might have expected at this Season. I hope you found Mrs. Adams and Family in a confirmd State of Health. I will not envy you, but I earnestly wish to enjoy, at least for a few Weeks, domestick Retirement and Happiness. I dare not however, urge an Adjournment of the Congress. It would indeed be beneficial to the Members and the publick on many Considerations, but our Affairs are now at so critical a Conjuncture that a Seperation might be dangerous.
     Since you left us, our Colony has sometimes been divided, on Questions that appeard to me to be important. Mr. Cushing has no doubt a Right to speak his opinion whenever he can form one; and you must agree with him, that it was highly reasonable, the Consideration of such Letters as you have often heard read, which had been assigned for the Day, should, merely for the Sake of order, have the Preference to so trifling Business as the raising an American Navy. I know it gives you great Pleasure to be informd that the Congress have ordered the Building of thirteen Ships of War viz five of 32 Guns five of 28 and three of 24. I own I wished for double or treble the Number, but I am taught the Rule of Prudence, to let the fruit hang till it is ripe, otherwise those Fermentations and morbid Acrimonies might be produced in the political, which the like error is said to produce in the natural Body. Our Colony is to build two of these Ships. We may want Duck. I have been told that this Article is manufacturd in the Counties of Hampshire and Berkshire. You may think this worth your Enquiry.
     Our Fleet, which has been preparing here will be ready to put to Sea in two or three days, and it is left to the Board of Admiralty to order its Destination. May Heaven succeed the Undertaking. Hopkins is appointed Commander in Chiefe. I dare promise that he will on all occasions distinguish his Bravery, as he always has, and do honor to the American Flag.
     General Schuyler is at Albany. By a Letter from him of the 14th Instant we are informd that “there had been a Meeting of Indians in that place, who deliverd to him a Speech, in which they related the Substance of a Conference Coll. Johnson had with them the last Summer, concluding with that at Montreal, where he deliverd to each of the Canadian Tribes a War belt and the Hatchet which they accepted; after which they were invited to feast on a Bostonian and drink his Blood, an ox being roasted for the purpose and a pipe of Wine given to drink. The War Song was also sung. One of the Chiefs of the Six Nations who attended that Conference, accepted of a very large black War belt with an Hatchet depicturd on it, but would neither eat nor drink nor sing the War Song. This famous Belt they have deliverd up, and there is now full Proof that the ministerial Servants have attempted to engage the Indians against us.” This is copied from the Generals Letter.
     You will know what I mean when I mention to you the Report of the Committee of Conference. This has been considerd and determind agreable to your Mind and mine. Mr. H agreed with me in opinion, and I think, in expressing his Sentiments he honord himself. I dare not be more explicit on this Subject. It is sufficient that you understand me.
     I have more to say to you but for Want of Leisure I must postpone it to another opportunity. Inclosd you have a Number of Letters which came to my hand directed to you. Had you been here I should possibly have had the Benefit of perusing them. I suffer in many Respects by your Absence.
     Pray present my due Regards to all Friends—particularly Coll. Warren, and tell him I will write to him soon. Your affectionate Friend


Title: Editorial Note
From:
To:

      Adams returned to Braintree from Philadelphia on 21 December 1775 and departed from Watertown for the Continental Congress five weeks later on 25 January 1776 (JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 2:226, 227). Relatively little is known about his activities and thinking in this period, for he wrote few letters and made no entries in his Diary. The official record of his role in the Council at Watertown is comparatively meager, even his days in attendance being uncertain. Although Adams is not listed as present until 28 December, he may have begun attending earlier, for he signed a number of resolutions dated the 26th, and on the 27th he was named to a committee. He also signed two Council resolutions on 3 January and one on the 10th, when he was not recorded as present (No. I, below). Payroll records indicate that he was paid for sixteen days’ attendance, but the clerk listed him as present on only fifteen: 28–30 December 1775, 4–6, 11–13, 15–19, and 24 January 1776 (Records of the States, Microfilm, Mass. A. 1a, Reel No. 12, Unit 1, p. 402–497, passim; M-Ar:164, p. 269 gives the payroll record).
      During that time he served on eight committees, the most important of which were those to form a plan for arming one or more vessels, to consider a letter from General Washington dated 10 January, and to draft a proclamation to open the courts (Nos. II, III, IV, below). The other committees, for which no information has been found to illuminate Adams’ role in their activities, were those to respond to a petition from the Town of Harvard complaining of excessive wages paid to officers in the army, to investigate the character of Dr. Samuel Gelston, who was accused of supplying the British Army with provisions (see Gelston to JA, 19 Jan. 1776, below), to report on a letter about lead from William Williams of Connecticut, to wait on Washington with the response to the General’s letter, and to consider the militia bill (Records of the States, Microfilm, Mass. A. 1a, Reel No. 12, Unit 1, p. 401–402, 425, 450, 452).
      While carrying on this strenuous schedule, Adams, as a member of the Continental Congress, advised Washington on Gen. Charles Lee’s plan to bring New York under American control and attended two meetings at headquarters (

        JA to Washington, 6 Jan. 1776, and Washington to JA, 15 Jan. 1776, both below
       ; DLC: Washington Papers, 22:101, 102). He was probably also consulting privately with various members of the General Court, as well as with Washington and his generals. Adams’ last full day with the Council was apparently 19 January, the day on which the proclamation for opening the courts was accepted by that body (Records of the States, Microfilm, Mass. A. 1a, Reel No. 12, Unit 1, p. 472–476).
      His return to the Continental Congress, so far as the General Court was concerned, had been settled on 15 December, although the official appointment and instructions for the delegates were delayed until 18 January. The General Court gave Adams 126 out of a possible 129 votes. John Hancock was elected unanimously, and Samuel Adams got only two fewer votes than John. Robert Treat Paine, however, was chosen by the minimum number of required votes, 65, and Elbridge Gerry, with no vote count recorded, was selected to replace Thomas Cushing (same, p. 467, 371–372). The election brought to a climax the political controversy that had divided Massachusetts leaders into moderates and radicals on the issue of American relations with Great Britain (see James Warren to JA, 3 Dec. 1775, note 12, above, and Thomas Cushing to Robert Treat Paine, 29 Feb. 1776, MHi: Robert Treat Paine Papers). Adams’ margin of victory and the election of Gerry, who would give the radicals so clear a majority within the delegation that the Massachusetts vote would no longer be indecisive, probably influenced Adams’ decision to return to Philadelphia. He was also swayed by the urgings of James Warren and other friends and by his own belief that the courts could open effectively without his being present as Chief Justice given the proclamation (No. IV, below) that was to be read upon their opening (JA, WorksThe Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a Life of the Author, ed. Charles Francis Adams, Boston, 1850–1856; 10 vols., 1:192).
      After a busy day in the Council on 19 January, Adams set out for Braintree. On 23 January he began his trip to Philadelphia, stopping in Watertown, where he had a last, probably brief, meeting with the Council and perhaps received the £130 voted by the General Court to each of the delegates to the congress (Mass., House Jour.Journals of the House of Representatives of Massachusetts [1715- ], Boston, reprinted by the Massachusetts Historical Society, 1919- . (For the years for which reprints are not yet available, the original printings are cited, by year and session.), 1775–1776, 3d sess., p. 201). He also attended a meeting at Cambridge between Generals Washington and Gates and “half a Dozen Sachems and Warriours of the french Cocknowaga Tribe,” to whom he was introduced by Washington as a member of the “Grand Council Fire at Philadelphia.” The following morning, at about ten, Gerry called for him, and the two men set out on their journey to attend what was to be a momentous session of the congress (Diary and Autobiography,Diary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols. 2:226–227; JA to AA, 24 Jan., Adams Family CorrespondenceAdams Family Correspondence, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1963– ., 1:343).


Title: Resolution to pay post-riders, 26 December 1775
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       26 December 1775. Resolution to pay post-riders. M-Ar:207, p. 311–315. printed: Force, Archives[Peter Force, ed.,] American Archives: Consisting of a Collection of Authentick Records, State Papers, Debates, and Letters and Other Notices of Publick Affairs, Washington, 1837–1853; 9 vols., 4th ser., 4:1242–1243.


Title: Resolution appointing members to a joint committee to determine how bills of credit were to be signed and numbered, 26 December 1775
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       26 December 1775. Resolution appointing members to a joint committee to determine how bills of credit were to be signed and numbered. M-Ar:207, p. 316. printed: Force, Archives[Peter Force, ed.,] American Archives: Consisting of a Collection of Authentick Records, State Papers, Debates, and Letters and Other Notices of Publick Affairs, Washington, 1837–1853; 9 vols., 4th ser., 4:1243.


Title: Resolution to pay John Davis a sum in behalf of Edward Johnson, a petitioning soldier, 26 December 1775
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

         26 December 1775.

       Resolution to pay John Davis a sum in behalf of Edward Johnson, a petitioning soldier. M-Ar:207, p. 317–318.


Title: Resolution to approve appointment of a committee to assist the commissary general in procuring military supplies, 27 December 1775
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       27 December 1775. Resolution to approve appointment of a committee to assist the commissary general in procuring military supplies. M-Ar:207, p. 326.


Title: Resolution to liberate Henry Middleton and George Price, prisoners in the Plymouth jail, 28 December 1775
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       28 December 1775. Resolution to liberate Henry Middleton and George Price, prisoners in the Plymouth jail. M-Ar: 164, p. 228.


Title: Resolution ordering committee for purchasing saltpeter to deliver it to Richard Devens, 28 December 1775
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       28 December 1775. Resolution ordering committee for purchasing saltpeter to deliver it to Richard Devens. M-Ar:207, p. 329.


Title: Recommendation to towns to promote the manufacture of saltpeter, 28 December 1775
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       28 December 1775. Recommendation to towns to promote the manufacture of saltpeter. M-Ar:207, p. 330.


Title: Resolution to approve payment to Committee for the Poor of Boston to assist those at Shirley Point, 28 December 1775
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       28 December 1775. Resolution to approve payment to Committee for the Poor of Boston to assist those at Shirley Point (see Joseph Ward to JA, 3 Dec., note 1, above). M-Ar:207, p. 331.


Title: Resolution ordering the Milton committee to deliver Thomas Hutchinson’s furniture to Mrs. Deborah Cushing, 29 December 1775
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       29 December 1775. Resolution ordering the Milton committee to deliver Thomas Hutchinson’s furniture to Mrs. Deborah Cushing. M-Ar: 207, p. 332.


Title: Resolution concerning payment of military companies at Braintree, Weymouth, and Hingham, 30 December 1775
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       30 December 1775. Resolution concerning payment of military companies at Braintree, Weymouth, and Hingham (see Josiah Quincy to JA, 2 Jan. 1776, note 1, below). M-Ar:207, p. 337.


Title: Resolution approving a new levy of men for the seacoast forces, 30 December 1775
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       30 December 1775. Resolution approving a new levy of men for the seacoast forces. M-Ar:207, p. 351–352.


Title: Resolution to have copies made of military rolls for use of the treasurer, 3 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       3 January 1776. Resolution to have copies made of military rolls for use of the treasurer. M-Ar:207, p. 366. Printed: Force, Archives[Peter Force, ed.,] American Archives: Consisting of a Collection of Authentick Records, State Papers, Debates, and Letters and Other Notices of Publick Affairs, Washington, 1837–1853; 9 vols., 4th ser., 4:1251.


Title: Approval of mittimus of Moses Wayman and Samuel Webb to Plymouth jail, 3 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       3 January 1776. Approval of mittimus of Moses Wayman and Samuel Webb to Plymouth jail. M-Ar: 164, p. 230.


Title: Message to House concerning the guarding of Hull and other towns, 4 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       4 January 1776. Message to House concerning the guarding of Hull and other towns. M-Ar:207, p. 369. printed: Force, Archives[Peter Force, ed.,] American Archives: Consisting of a Collection of Authentick Records, State Papers, Debates, and Letters and Other Notices of Publick Affairs, Washington, 1837–1853; 9 vols., 4th ser., 4:1252.


Title: Resolution to supply the Continental Army with 4,000 blankets, 5 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       5 January 1776. Resolution to supply the Continental Army with 4,000 blankets. M-Ar:207, p. 370–374.


Title: Resolution concerning mittimus of sixteen named men to Worcester jail, 5 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       5 January 1776. Resolution concerning mittimus of sixteen named men to Worcester jail. M-Ar: 164, p. 231. printed: Naval Docs. Amer. Rev.William Bell Clark, William James Morgan (from vol. 5), and others, eds., Naval Documents of the American Revolution, Washington, 1964- , 3:631.


Title: Order to Plymouth jail to release James Middleton, 6 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       6 January 1776. Order to Plymouth jail to release James Middleton. M-Ar:164, p. 234.


Title: Resolution to allow the accounts of the treasurer of Barnstable county, 15 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       15 January 1776. Resolution to allow the accounts of the treasurer of Barnstable county. M-Ar:207, p. 405.


Title: Order to Worcester jail to release Thomas Mullin, 17 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       17 January 1776. Order to Worcester jail to release Thomas Mullin. M-Ar:164, p. 237.


Title: Order that blankets collected in Hampshire and Berkshire counties be retained there for use by troops going northward, 19 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       19 January 1776. Order that blankets collected in Hampshire and Berkshire counties be retained there for use by troops going northward. M-Ar:207, p. 423–424.


Title: Resolution requesting accounts from towns of powder, lead, and flints supplied to the Continental Army, 19 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       19 January 1776. Resolution requesting accounts from towns of powder, lead, and flints supplied to the Continental Army. M-Ar:207, p. 426. printed: Force, Archives[Peter Force, ed.,] American Archives: Consisting of a Collection of Authentick Records, State Papers, Debates, and Letters and Other Notices of Publick Affairs, Washington, 1837–1853; 9 vols., 4th ser., 4:1267.


Title: Resolution for raising 728 officers and men in Hampshire and Berkshire counties to go to Canada, 19 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       19 January 1776.
       Resolution for raising 728 officers and men in Hampshire and Berkshire counties to go to Canada. M-Ar:207, p. 430. printed: Force, Archives[Peter Force, ed.,] American Archives: Consisting of a Collection of Authentick Records, State Papers, Debates, and Letters and Other Notices of Publick Affairs, Washington, 1837–1853; 9 vols., 4th ser., 4:1270.


Title: Resolution to approve choice of field officers for regiment going to Canada, 19 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       19 January 1776. Resolution to approve choice of field officers for regiment going to Canada. M-Ar: 207, p. 434. printed: Force, Archives[Peter Force, ed.,] American Archives: Consisting of a Collection of Authentick Records, State Papers, Debates, and Letters and Other Notices of Publick Affairs, Washington, 1837–1853; 9 vols., 4th ser., 4:1270.


Title: Resolution approving appointment of a committee to call in misprinted bills of credit, 24 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       24 January 1776. Resolution approving appointment of a committee to call in misprinted bills of credit. M-Ar:207, p. 461.


Title: Resolution approving an order that bills of credit be delivered to the committee appointed to sign them and that it in turn deliver them to the treasurer, 24 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Council
To:

       24 January 1776. Resolution approving an order that bills of credit be delivered to the committee appointed to sign them and that it in turn deliver them to the treasurer. M-Ar:207, p. 465.


Title: II. Report of a Committee on Fitting Out Armed Vessels, 11 January 1776
From: Adams, John,Massachusetts Provincial Congress,Palmer, Joseph,Orne, Azor,Brown, John,Otis, Joseph,Morton, Perez,Warren, James
To:

        11 January 1776

      The Committee of both Houses appointed to consider a Plan for fiting out one or more Armed Vessels for the defence of American Liberty, have attended that service, and Report in the following Resolves, vizt.

       John Adams Per order

       In Council, January 10th. 1776

      Resolved that two Ships be built, as soon as may be, at the expence of this Colony; One Suitable to carry Thirty-Six Guns, vizt., Twenty Four Guns carrying twelve Pound Shot, and Sixteen Guns for Six Pound Shot; and the other Ship suitable to carry Thirty-two Guns, vizt., Twenty Guns for nine Pound Shott, and Twelve for Six Pound shot; and that these Ships be built in a manner best calculated for swift sailing, and of Timber and other Materials suitable for Ships of War of such a number of Guns and weight of Metal, and furnished with a Suitable number of Officers, Seamen and Mariners and that all kinds of necessary Arms, Ammunition and Provisions be furnished for such Ships.
      Resolved, That  with such as the Honble. House shall join, be a Committee to carry the foregoing Resolution into execution as soon as possible; and that a Sum of Money, for that purpose, not exceeding  be put into their Hands, they to be accountable to this Court for the expenditure of the Same.
      In Council Jany. 11th. 1776 Read and sent down,

       Perez Morton Dpy Secry

      In the House of Representatives Jan. 12th. 1776
      Read and ordered to be recommitted, and the Committee are directed to report an Estimate of the Expence of building and Furnishing the Vessels above proposed to be provided.
      Sent up for Concurrence,

       J Warren Spkr

      In Council Jany. 12th 1776 Read and concurred,

       Perez Morton Depy Secry

      In Council Jany 23d 1776
      Resolved that Thos. Cushing Esqr. be of the aforesaid Committee on the part of the Board in the room of Jno. Adams Esqr. who is absent. Sent down for Concurrence,

       Perez Morton Dpy Secry

      In the House of Representatives Jan. 24 1776
      Read and concurred. Sent up.

       J Warren Spkr


Title: Samuel Hopkins to Thomas Cushing, 29 December 1775
From: Hopkins, Samuel
To: Cushing, Thomas

      Newport, 29 Dec. 1775
      Much honored Sir

     The degree of acquaintance I have with you, through your indulgence; and your known candour, condescention and goodness, encourage me to address you on an affair, which, in my view, is very interesting, and calls for the particular attention of the honorable members of the Continental Congress.
     They have indeed manifested much wisdom and benevolence in advising to a total stop of the slave trade, and leading the united American Colonies to resolve not to buy any more slaves, imported from Africa. This has rejoiced the hearts of many benevolent, pious persons, who have been long convinced of the unrighteousness and cruelty of that trade, by which so many Hundreds of thousands are enslaved. And have we not reason to think this has been one means of obtaining the remarkable, and almost miraculous protection and success, which heaven has hitherto granted to the united Colonies, in their opposition to unrighteousness and tyranny, and struggle for liberty?
     But if the slave trade be altogether unjust, is it not equally unjust to hold those in slavery, who by this trade have been reduced to this unhappy state? Have they not a right to their liberty, which has been thus violently, and altogether without right, taken from them? Have they not reason to complain of any one who withholds it from them? Do not the cries of these oppressed poor reach to the heavens? Will not God require it at the hands of those who refuse to let them go out free? If practising or promoting the slave trade be inconsistent with what takes place among us, in our struggle for liberty, is not retaining the slaves in bondage, whom by this trade we have in our power, equally inconsistent? And is there not, consequently, an inconsistence in resolving against the former, and yet continuing the latter?
     And if the righteous and infinitely good Governor of the world, has given testimony of his approbation of our resolving to put a stop to the slave trade, by doing such wonders in our favor; have we not reason to fear he will take his protection from us, and give us up to the power of oppression and tyranny, when he sees we stop short of what might be reasonably expected; and continue the practice of that which we ourselves have, implicitly at least, condemned, by refusing to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?
     Does not the conduct of Lord Dunmore, and the ministerialists, in taking the advantage of the slavery practised among us, and encouraging all slaves to join them, by promising them liberty, point out the best, if not the only way to defeat them in this, viz. granting freedom to them ourselves, so as no longer to use our neighbour’s service without wages, but give them for their labours what is equal and just?
     And suffer me further to query, Whether something might not be done to send the light of the gospel to these nations in Africa, who have been injured so much by the slave trade? Would not this have a most direct tendency to put a stop to that unrighteousness; and be the best compensation we can make them? At the same time it will be an attempt to promote the most important interest, the kingdom of Christ, in obedience to his command, ‘Go, teach all nations.’
     A proposal of this kind has been entered upon, of which the enclosed will give you some of the particulars. The blacks there mentioned are now with me, and have had the approbation of Dr. Witherspoon, with whom they spent the last winter. They continue disposed to prosecute the design; and would be sent to Guinea in the spring, if any way for their being transported there should open, and money could be collected, sufficient to bear the expence. The proposal has met with good encouragement in England and Scotland, and more than £30 sterl. has been sent from thence; and we had reason to expect more: But all communication of this kind is now stopped. Application would be made to the honorable Continental Congress, for their encouragement and patronage of this design, if there were no impropriety in it, and it should be thought it would be well received. And I take leave, kind sir, to ask your opinion and advise in this matter; and desire you to signify it to me in a line by the bearer, Mr. Anthony, if not inconsistent with the many important affairs, which demand your attention. I am, honorable Sir, with much respect and esteem, Your very humble servant,

      Samuel Hopkins


Title: Robert Treat Paine to Joseph Palmer, 1 January 1776
From: Paine, Robert Treat
To: Palmer, Joseph

      Philadelphia Jan 1st 1776
      My Dear Friend

     I arrived here the 28th ultimo from my journey as far as Ticonderoga, we proceeded no farther as we had some expectations when we sat out, partly because the season was too late to pass safely by water and too early to pass on the ice; and also because the object of our commission of most immediate importance could be determined at Ticonderoga—but a very great reason was because the Military situation of Canada would not admit of our receiving that assistance from Genl. Montgomery which was necessary to promote the chief purpose of our going there.
     At Albany we attended a treaty with the Six Nations and it appeared to be very serviceable to the cause that a Committee from the Grand Council Fire at Philadelphia attended it. The Indians were much elated and behaved with every mark of friendship; their speech contains matters of importance and I suppose will be published as soon as the report arrives from Albany to the Congress.
     You write in low spirits about salt petre making among you, but as your letter is of old date I hope your spirits have been since raised by the production of considerable quantities in divers places, we are informed here that you have got into the right method and that you make considerable quantities. Pray use your influence to have people in different parts set up small works. This will spread and increase it and the Works will always be enlarged in proportion to the success. They make it at this time here in the city works from earth taken from the bottoms of Cellars where wood and vegetables have lain and they have good success. It is spreading also in the family way —I intended to enlarge on this subject but have not been here long enough to digest matter.
     At present my mind is much agitated on the discovery of a malicious and slanderous correspondence between James Warren and John Adams respecting Mr. Cushing and myself and on comparing what is written with the behaviour of some of my brother delegates it appears to me that while I have been exerting myself to the utmost in supporting the common defence of all that is valuable and by that means exposing myself to the vengeance of administration if I should fall into their hands some particular persons whom I considered as struggling with and supporting me in the same cause to my astonishment are undermining my importance happiness, and safety, so that not only if our common enemy conquers we shall be made miserable but if our struggles are crowned with success I am then to be crushed and rendered unhappy by the very men, I have been endeavoring to support at the risk of every thing that is valuable. I have received a notification of my appointment as one of the judges of the Supreme Court and a list of the whole set with the rank, of which the Hon. John Adams is chief Justice. By this opportunity I have sent my answer in the negative and have assigned one reason which I think of itself sufficient. I have had but little time to consider the matter and could have wished to know how the other gentlemen like their rank and wether they have accepted; I am far from thinking that the honorable board had the least intention of disparaging the merit of any gentleman but when we consider that the proposed chief Justice ranks the last but one in age and as a lawyer at the bar it looks to me as if some imperceptible influence had regulated the appointment of a chief justice upon political or other principles than what are usual in such cases; if I was not worthy of such a trust (as my former friend Col. Warren, suggests) why was I appointed; and if I am defective either in law, knowledge, integrity or political rectitude it certainly was wrong to appoint me; but if supposed sufficiently qualified in these respects, why am I degraded? I mourn the appearance of these and some other matters that are coming to light. I fear they spring from a fountain that will embitter the administration of our public affairs. Excuse my writing thus freely to you but it is to no purpose to disguise some sorts of uneasiness; if a junto of two three or four men are able to combine together, settle a test of political rectitude and destroy every one who will not comply with their mode of conduct, if vanity arrogance and violance are primary qualities in a free state I must confess things are like to take a turn very different from what I expected.
     Inclosed is the extract but I have not time to explain the manner in which it came to light, but I have wrote it to Maj. Hawley who will explain the matter to you. I have no desire to incense you against particular persons, but if you think such conduct is wrong you will behave accordingly and give me that support you may think I deserve. Wishing the promotion of our common happiness and a deliverance from the perils of public enemies and also false brethren—I am with great esteem Your friend & humble svt

      (Signed) R T Paine


Title: To John Adams from Josiah Quincy, 2 January 1776
From: Quincy, Josiah
To: Adams, John

      Braintree Jany 2d: 1776
      Sir

     A number of my Neighbours who are present, and in the Names of the rest who are absent, desire me to acquaint you, that, not withstanding Genl. Ward’s Request, that the Companies stationed for the Protection of Squantum would tarry there till further Orders, they are all gone, and that important Place, and the valuable Farms in the Vicinity of it, are left exposed to the Ravages of the Enemy, who must be under the strongest Temptation that the want of fresh Provision can create, to run every Hazard to supply themselves.
     In short, such is our Apprehension of Danger, that some are moving their Families and Effects, and unless we are immediately relieved, we are in the utmost Hazard of losing our all. We, therefore, earnestly beg, that you would be so good (in Conjunction with Colo. Palmer and Colo. Thayer) as to represent our deplorable Circumstances to his Excellency Genl. Washington, who we understand, has taken Squantum Neck under his immediate Protection; and will, doubtless, upon your joint Application send, a Force sufficient, and without Delay, to defend and effectually secure us. I am, Sir, in the Name of my destressed Neighbours Your most obedient and faithfull Servant,

      Josa: Quincy


Title: From John Adams to William Cooper, 4 January 1776
From: Adams, John
To: Cooper, William

      Watertown, Jany. 4. 1776
      Dear Sir

     As some worthy Members of the Honourable House of Representatives may possibly be desirous of knowing the Cause of my return at this Time, I must beg you to inform them, that judging this the most favourable Opportunity which would probably present, I asked and obtaind Leave of the honourable continental Congress to come home, on a visit to my Family, whose Distresses and Afflictions in my Absence seemed to render it necessary that I should return to them for some short Time at least.
     I have no particular Intelligence to communicate from the Honourable Congress, more than has come to the Knowledge of the Public, heretofore, only I beg Leave to say that as much Harmony and Zeal is still prevailing in that honourable Assembly as ever appeared at any Time, and that their Unanimity and Firmness increase.
     I hope the Honourable House will soon receive authentic Intelligence of a considerable naval Force ordered by the Congress to be prepared, as I am well informed they have resolved to build Thirteen ships, five of Thirty two Guns, five of Twenty eight and three of Twenty four, which together with those fitted out before, by the Continent, and by particular Colonies as well as private Persons, it is hoped will be a security, in Time to come, against the Depredations of Cutters and Tenders at least, if not against single ships of War.
     I must beg the Favour of you, sir, to communicate the substance of this Letter, to the Members of the Honourable House in such a Way as you shall think fit. I have the Honour to be with great Respect to the Honourable House, sir, your most obedient sert.

      John Adams


Title: From John Adams to George Washington, 6 January 1776
From: Adams, John
To: Washington, George

      Watertown Jan. 6. 1776
      Dr Sir

     As your Excellency has asked my Opinion of General Lees Plan, as explained in his Letter of the fifth instant, I think it my Duty to give it, although I am obliged to do it in more Haste than I could wish.
     I Suppose the only Questions which arise upon that Letter are whether the Plan is practicable; whether it is expedient; and whether it lies properly within your Excellencys Authority, without further Directions from Congress.
     Of the Practicability of it, I am very ill qualified to judge; But were I to hazard a conjecture, it would be that the Enterprise would not be attended with much Difficulty. The Connecticutt People who are very ready upon such occasion in Conjunction with the Friends of Liberty in New York I should think might easily accomplish the Work.
     That it is expedient, and even necessary to be done, by Some Authority or other, I believe will not be doubted by any Friend of the American Cause, who considers the vast Importance of that City, Province, and the North River which is in it, in the Progress of this War, as it is the Nexus of the Northern and Southern Colonies, as a Kind of Key to the whole Continent, as it is a Passage to Canada to the Great Lakes and to all the Indians Nations. No Effort to secure it ought to be omitted.
     That it is within the Limits of your Excellencys Command, is in my Mind, perfectly clear. Your Commission constitutes you Commander “of all the Forces now raised or to be raised, and of all others, who shall voluntarily offer their Service, and join the Army for the defence of American Liberty, and for repelling every hostile Invasion thereof: and are vested with full Power and Authority to act as you shall think for the good and well fare of the service.”
     Now if upon Long Island, there is a Body of People, who have Arms in their Hands, and are intrenching themselves, professedly to oppose the American system of Defence; who are supplying our Enemies both of the Army and Navy, in Boston and elsewhere, as I suppose is undoubtedly the Fact, no Man can hesitate to say that this is an hostile Invasion of American Liberty, as much as that now made in Boston, nay those People are guilty of the very Invasion in Boston, as they are constantly aiding, abetting, comforting and assisting the Army there; and that in the most essential Manner by supplies of Provisions. If in the City a Body of Tories are waiting only for a Force to protect them, to declare themselves on the side of our Enemies, it is high Time that City was secured. The Jersey Troops have already been ordered into that City by the Congress, and are there undoubtedly under your Command ready to assist in this service.
     That N. York is within your Command as much as Massachusetts cannot bear a Question. Your Excellencys Superiority in the Command, over the Generals, in the Northern Department as it is called has been always carefully preserved in Congress, altho the Necessity of Dispatch has sometimes induced them to send Instructions directly to them, instead of first sending them to your Excellency, which would have occasioned a Circuit of many hundreds of Miles, and have lost much Time.
     Upon the whole sir, my opinion is that General Lee’s is a very useful Proposal, and will answer many good Ends. I am with great Respect, your Excellencys most obedient humble Servant

      John Adams


Title: To John Adams from George Washington, 7 January 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Adams, John

      Cambridge Jany: 7: 1776
      Sir

     You will excuse me for reminding you of our conversation the other Evening, when I inform’d you that General Lee’s departure for New York is advisable upon the Plan of his Letter, and under the circumstances I then mentioned, ought not to be delayed. In giving me your opinion of this matter I have no doubt of your taking a comprehensive view of it. That is, you will not only consider the propriety of the measure, but of the execution. Whether such a step, tho’ right in itself may not be looked upon as beyond my Line &ca &ca.
     If it could be made convenient and agreeable to you to take Pott Luck with me today, I shall be very glad of your Company and we can then talk the matter over at large. Please to forward General Lee’s Letter to me. I am &ca.,

      G. Washington


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Adams, 15 January 1776
From: Adams, Samuel
To: Adams, John

      Philada Jany 15 1776
      My dear sir

     Altho I have at present but little Leisure, I cannot omit writing you a few Lines by this Express.
     I have seen certain Instructions which were given by the Capital of the Colony of New Hampshire to its Delegates in their provincial Convention, the Spirit of which I am not altogether pleased with. There is one part of them at least, which I think discovers a Timidity which is unbecoming a People oppressed and insulted as they are, and who at their own Request have been advisd and authorizd by Congress, to set up and exercise Government in such form as they should judge most conducive to their own Happiness. It is easy to understand what they mean when they speak of “perfecting a form of Govt. stable and permanent.” They indeed explain themselves by saying that they “should prefer the Govt. of Congress (their provincial Convention) till quieter times.” The Reason they assign for it, I fear, will be considered as showing a Readiness to condescend to the Humours of their Enemies, and their publickly expressly and totally disavowing Independency either on the Nation or the Man who insolently and perseveringly demands the Surrender of their Liberties with the Bayonet pointed at their Breasts may be construed to argue a Servility and Baseness of soul for which Language doth not afford an Epethet. It is by indiscrete Resolutions and Publications that the Friends of America have too often given occasion to their Enemies to injure her Cause. I hope however that the Town of Portsmouth doth not in this Instance speak the Sense of that Colony. I wish, if it be not too late, that you would write your Sentiments of the Subject to our worthy Friend Mr. L—— who I suppose is now in Portsmouth. If that Colony should take a wrong Step, I fear it would wholly defeat a Design which I confess I have much at heart.
     A Motion was made in Congress the other Day to the following purpose, that whereas we had been charged with aiming at Independency, a Committee should be appointed to explain to the People at large the Principles and Grounds of our Opposition &c. The Motion alarmd me. I thought Congress had already been explicit enough, and was apprehensive that we might get ourselves upon dangerous Ground. Some of us prevailed so far as to have the Matter postponed but could not prevent the assigning a Day to consider it. I may perhaps have been wrong in opposing this Motion, and I ought the rather to suspect it, because the Majority of your Colony as well as of the Congress were of a different opinion.
     I had lately some free Conversation with an eminent Gentleman whom you well know, and whom your Portia, in one of her Letters, admired if I recollect right, for his expressive Silence, about a Confederation, A Matter which our much valued Friend Coll. W. is very sollicitous to have compleated. We agreed that it must soon be brought on, and that if all the Colonies could not come into it, it had better be done by those of them that inclind to it. I told him that I would endeavor to unite the New England Colonies in confederating, if none of the rest would joyn in it. He approved of it, and said, if I succeeded he would cast in his Lot among us.

      Adieu

      Jany 16th

     As this Express did not sett off yesterday according to my Expectation, I have the opportunity of acquainting you that Congress has just receivd a Letter from General Washington inclosing the Copy of an Application of our General Assembly to him to order Payment to four Companies stationed at Braintree Weymouth and Hingham. The General says they were never regimented, and he cannot comply with the Request of the Assembly without the Direction of Congress. A Committee is appointed to consider the Letter of which I am one. I fear there will be a Difficulty and therefore I shall endeavor to prevent a Report on this part of the Letter, unless I shall see a prospect of Justice being done to the Colony, till I can receive from you authentick Evidence of those Companies having been actually employed by the continental officers, as I conceive they have been, in the Service of the Continent. I wish you would inform me whether the two Companies stationed at Chelsea and Maldin were paid out of the Continents Chest. I suppose they were, and if so, I cannot see Reason for any Hesitation about the payment of these. I wish also to know how many others our Colony is at the Expence of maintaining for the Defence of its Sea Coasts. Pray let me have some Intelligence from you, of the Colony which we represent. You are sensible of the Danger it has frequently been in of suffering greatly for Want of regular Information.


Title: To John Adams from George Washington, 15 January 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Adams, John

      Cambridge 15th. Novr. i.e. Jan. 1776
      Dr Sir

     I am exceedingly sorry I did not know that you were in this place today. Our want of Men and arms is such, as to render it necessary for me to get the best advice possible of the most eligeble mode of obtaining of them. I adjourned the Council of Officers today, untill I could be favourd with your opinion (together with that of others of the General Court) on these heads. They meet again tomorrow at 11 Oclock (head Quarters) when I should take it exceedingly kind of you to be present.
     I understand that the Speaker and Major Halley, are to be of your party to Town at Dinner. Let me prevail upon all three of you to be with me at Eleven. To Make some attempt upon the Troops in Boston before fresh Reinforcements arrive, is surely a thing of the last Importance; but alas! We are scarce able to maintain our own extensive Lines. If the Militia will not be prevailed upon to stay, I cannot answer for the consequences; longer than this Month we are sure they will not; as certain I am that our Regiments cannot be Recruited to their establishment in any Reasonable time; ’tis for these Reasons therefore, and without loss of time I am exceedingly desirous of consulting with you, and the Gentlemen before mentioned on the most efficatious method of collecting a sufficient Force to answer the valuable purpose we all wish to accomplish. In hope of seeing you at the hour appointed, tomorrow; I shall not now enlarge, but only ask that I am with sincere esteem and respect Dr Sr. yr. Most obt. servt.,

      Go: Washington


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Gelston, 19 January 1776
From: Adams, John
To: Gelston, Samuel

       Fryday 9 OClock 19 Jan. 1776

      Sir

     Pardon me for the Liberty I take in Sending a Billet to a Gentleman of your exolted Station and Character, when I have not the Honour to be in the number of your Acquaintance. Had not my situation been Really distressed, I should not have done it. When the Council Rose Yesterday p.m. I was Acquainted by one of the Members That they had come into sundry Resolutions on my Matters and that Business was to be finished in the afternoon by a comitte chosen for that purpose. Since which I am told the court have it under Consideration. How far that may be consistant with the present Constitution I dont pretend to say, but I’m sure it is widely Different from every Idea I have Formed of the Custom of Courts. Perhaps there may be something very extreordinary in my case to Require it.
     For God’s sake Sir take a View of my Situation, to be dragd from my family and Business upwards of an Hundred miles through thick and thin, mud and mire bearing the insults of the Missled and unknowing for a supposed offence only—for I think no one in his sences can condemn me with Regard to the supplys. As to anything further it is merely Information the wait of which can have no Enterence into the mind of a Man of your knowledge and candour especially in this day of Anarchy and Confusion. Pray Sir consider me and my situation and use your Influence to bring about a speedy Settlement of my Affair and Let me know my Doom, which Shall ever be most Gratefully acknowledg’d by Sir Your most Obedt. and very Huml. Servt.,

      Saml: Gelston


Title: To John Adams from Perez Morton, 19 January 1776
From: Morton, Perez,Massachusetts Provincial Congress
To: Adams, John

       Council Chamber Jany 19th 1776
       Sir

      Agreable to the Direction of the inclosed Resolution, I am to acquaint you that by a joint Ballot of both Houses of Assembly for the Colony of Massachusetts Bay You are elected one of the Delegates to represent that Colony in American Congress untill the first Day of January AD 1777 And the enclosed Resolve you are to make the general Rule of your Conduct.

       By order of the Genl. Court,
       Perez Morton Dpy Secr


Title: Enclosure: Resolution Appointing Massachusetts Delegates to the Continental Congress, 18 January 1776
From: Morton, Perez,Lowell, John,Warren, James,Massachusetts Provincial Congress
To: Adams, John,Continental Congress, Massachusetts delegates,Hancock, John,Adams, Samuel,Paine, Robert Treat,Gerry, Elbridge

       In Council Jany 18 1776

      Whereas John Hancock, Samuel Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, and Elbridge Gerry Esqrs. have been chosen by joint Ballot of the two houses of Assembly to represent the Colony of Massachusetts Bay in New England in the American Congress untill the first day of January A.D. 1777—
      Resolved that they or any one or more of them are hereby fully impowered, with the delegates from the other American Colonies to concert, direct and order such further measures as shall to them appear best calculated for the Establishment of Right and Liberty to the American Colonies upon a Basis permanent and secured against the power and arts of the British administration And guarded against any future Encroachments of their Enemies with power to adjourn to such times and places as shall appear most conducive to the publick Safety and advantage.
      Read and accepted, sent down for Concurrence,

       John Lowell Dpy: Secy: pro tem

      In the House of Representatives Jany: 18, 1776
      Read and concurred, And the Secretary is hereby directed as soon as may be to signify to each of those Gentlemen their Appointment, with an attested Copy of this Order.
      Sent up for Concurrence,

       J Warren Spkr:

      In Council Jany: 18 1776
      Read and concurred,

       John Lowell Dpy Secy: pro-tem


Title: To John Adams from Jeduthun Baldwin, 21 January 1776
From: Baldwin, Jeduthun
To: Adams, John

      Cambridge Jany 21 1776
      Sir

     Pleas to allow me the freedom of informing your Honour that in the year 1755 in August, I Received a Captains Commission in Col. Brown’ Regiment and marched with my Company by the Way of Dearfield, and Hoossock Fort, thro the woods to Fort Edward, and to Lake George. Soon after I got there I was employed in building Fort Wm. Henry, under the direction of Col. Ayres. In Decr., when the army came off, at the request of Genl. Johnson, I inlisted a Company in Col. Bagleys Regiment, and tarryed thro’ the winter and Spring to finish the Fort, and Garrison it, and in the year 1759, I Received a Captain Commission in Genl. Ruggles Regiment. After I arived at Fort Edward I was Sent to Halfway Brook, to build a Stockade Fort there, under the direction of Col. Ayres. When we came before Ticonderoga, I had the direction in throwing up Som brestwork at that place. After we had got possession of this place, I was ordered to Crownpoint where I was employed as a director and Overseer, under Col. Ayres, in building that large Fort. When the Army came off, Genl. Amherst was pleasd to Thank me for my Service, and ordered that I should be paid 4/ per Day from the time that I went to Halfway Brook till I left the place In Decr., which was about 6 months, exclusive of my pay as a Captain. I have Served as an Engineer in the present Army before Boston, was at the Leying out the works on Charlstown Hills, was in Charlstown the whole of that memorable Day 17th June, gave all the assistance I was able, went directly to Prospect Hill, had the direction of the work there, and then to Sewels Point in Brookline. I have had the principal direction and over Sight, Since the 17th of June in laying out and raising the works in Cambridge Cobble Hill, and at Lechmer Point all which I have done without having an Establishment equal to the Service. This Province made me a grant of 3o£ for my Service to the first of August, which was equal to a Colonel pay, and left the Establishment to the Honble. Congress.

     It has been proposed that I should have a Regiment, but this was objected too, for it was, said, that I could be of more Service in the Army as an Engineer. Now Sir, all I request is Rank and pay Equal to my Service, which I Submit to your Honour’ Consideration. I am Sir your’ and the Publick’ most Obedient Very Humble Servant,

      Jeduthun Baldwin


Title: To John Adams from William Heath, 22 January 1776
From: Heath, William
To: Adams, John

      Camp at Cambridge Janry. 22nd. 1776
      Dear Sir

     Being informed that you begin your Journey for Philadelphia this week, I would beg to recommend to your Consideration the Services of Colonel Jeduthan Baldwin, who Joyned the Army the Beginning of the last Campaign, and has Continued ever Since in the army as an Engineer on the works. He has received for the months of June and July from the Assembly of our Colony Colonels Pay. But as the Continental Establishment Stands, He Cannot receive for his Services Since that Time more than Six pounds per month, which he thinks to be so Inadequate to his Services that he Informs me He must Quit the Army unless Some further provision Can be made for him. He is Constantly in Business even in this Severe Season and the works at Cobble Hill and Lechmeres Point which you have Seen, (as well as many others) were laid out and Compleated under his Direction. I wish you would mention the matter to His Excellency, if you should see him before you leave the Colony, and if He should have the Same Opinion of his Services, That you would Use your Influence in Congress, that he may have an adequate reward.
     Thus far I think it my Duty to endeavor to obtain Justice for a Servicable and Faithfull man. I am Dear Sir with great Respect your most Obedient and very Humble Servt.,

      W Heath


Title: To John Adams from Lemuel Hayward, 23 January 1776
From: Hayward, Lemuel
To: Adams, John

      Roxbury Janry 23 1776
      Sir

     Ever since your Arrival to the Camp my colleague Doctr. Aspinwall has been confined by a Fever, which has doubled my Service in the Hospital and hereby rendered it impossible for me to do myself the Honor of waiting on you. I hope therefore you will rather impute it to Necessity than to the Want of either Gratitude or Complaisance.
     I sincerely thank you for the Honor you did me in writing, but more especially for your kind Disposition towards me.
     You doubtless have conversed with Doctr. Morgan respecting the Hospital. It is therefore needless to inform you that I have his and the General’s Recommendation. How far they may be complyed with, I trust depends much upon your Influence which if you had not in your Favor of Novr: 13th kindly offered, I should again ask. I am with greatest respect your Honor’s most obedient and most humble Servent,

      Lemuel Hayward


Title: To John Adams from Humanity, 23 January 1776
From: Humanity
To: Adams, John

       ianary 23–76

      sir

     Whot doth thee thenk of thes trubelsom tiems. Is thar not a caus—ye sin no dout is the caus—but among the many sins that might be named I would naem on and that is slaves keepen. Whot has the negros the afracons don to us that we shuld tak tham from thar own land and mak tham sarve us to the da of thar deth. Ar tha not the work of gods hand. Has tha not immortel soles. Ar we not the sons of on adam. How than is it that we hold that pepel in slavery. God forbid that it shuld be so anay longer. O bretesh nasion the lord is angray with you for this and is sufering you to dash on part aganst the other, but amaracae let us se that all things be right with us. Than and not tel than ma we luk for beter tiems. But sir I hear of nothing don for thos captiefs. Are we claeming freedom fighting for it and practes slavery. God forbid. My fathars this mater belongs unto you. Se whot jugments god has brot upon boston that fust imported tham into this provenc, and charlstown that burned on of tham, and will he not do so to many moer plaseses except we reform.
     Sir I ask the faver of you that thee would ues your influenc that somthing might be don for thos captiefs. I hear the gentelman that heads the army holds 700 of them in bondeg. Thenk ye god will prosper the wor in his hand. Might he not as wall tak 700 bostonens and cary tham to his plantsions to the da of thar death. Nuengland bhold the hand of the lord is upon you and is about to bring your owen wa upon your had except ye reform this thing.

      humanity

      This my nu yers geft.


Title: To John Adams from Joseph Palmer, 23 January 1776
From: Palmer, Joseph
To: Adams, John

      Watertown, 23d January 1776
      Dear Sir

     To regulate the trade of the United Colonies, being a field of vast extent, far exceeds my present comprehension; and ’tis not likely I shall ever fully investigate that complicated System of Regulation, which will best Serve the trade of these Colonies; however, I will venture to Suggest to you Several reasons which incline me to favour the following Regulation, which respects the importation of foreign Articles. I wou’d first premise, that I apprehend it necessary that we shou’d have a good Sumptuary Law, well adapted to our circumstances: This being Supposed, I think we Shall be best able to guard against Some breaches of this Law, by being our own Carriers; and by having all imports in our own Bottoms, we Shall have all the advantages of Supplying and carrying; this will also encourage Ship-building, and will be an effectual Nursery for Seamen; and will also prevent other Nations obtaining Such knowledge of our Ports, as may, in some future time, enable them to improve it to our damage, as our unnatural enemies have lately done. When this matter is contemplated; I shou’d be very fond, for the reasons mentioned, to Secure this point, even at a great expence (if necessary) in some other way. For as we don’t want any Imports, as necessary to Life; and as our Exports of the Provision kind will be large, I think we may, in treaty, fair claim the proposed article. I have no time, but only at the Board, where many interruptions necessarily take place; if I shou’d have opportunity, will write more fully.
     I have to ask the favour of you to buy me a Silver Hilted Sword; I wou’d willingly have one that is both Strong and hansom, with a Hilt that will well Secure the hand: Formerly I knew somthing about the backsword, and a little, very little, about the Small Sword, and therefore prefer one that wou’d Serve to push, or cut, as opportunity and occasion may present; my Nerves are unstrung, so that I cannot wish to meet an occasion, but shou’d the necessity arrive, I shou’d be glad to be prepared for defence: When I know the price, will pay it as you may order.
     I have had some tho’ts about Government which I have not had opportunity to mention so fully as I cou’d wish. You know how much we are embarrassed for want of a Governor; how Slow our proceedings; and how difficult to have 15 always in the Chair. We now see that our enemies are determined to push with all their might early in the Spring; how necessary is it then that we take effectual measures for reduceing both Quebec and Boston before the Spring arrives. But this is not all; may we not also attempt to divert the Storm? If the United Colonies shou’d declare for independence, and offer their Trade, in some general way, until treaty shall settle particulars, to Somebody else; would not our Enemies find themselves immediately involved in a War with that Sombody? and would not that involvement break the Storm, in some degree, for the present? and can anybody accept such Trade without such an involvement? And if these things must be done at all, prudence says that they must be done soon, without any delay, and that a better form of Government, at least a more compleat one, is necessary for expedition.
     I mentioned a Governor serving only 1 Yr., and then 3 Yrs. next after, not to be chosen; I have not expressed myself right, but you know my meaning. I could wish also that the Council may be reduced to 21; and 7 others to be assistants, or privy Council to the Governor; these, with such assistants, to be chosen annually, I wou’d willingly trust the Governor with a negative power. May God bless and prosper all your endeavours to promote happiness; so prays yr. affect: Friend &c.,

      Borland


Title: To John Adams from James Warren, 31 January 1776
From: Warren, James
To: Adams, John

       Watertown Jany. 31. 1776
       My dear Sir

      I am Extreamly hurried this morning, and therefore have only time to Express my wishes for your Happiness. I hope by this Time you are not far from Philadelphia. I wrote in great haste to Mr. Adams this morning to whom must refer you for all the Intelligence I could give. I have received and Inclose a Number of Letters for you which I suppose have been once to Philadelphia. I have Another for you from Mr. Adams, which Curiosity, and a Confidence in your Excusing me have Induced me to open. You will please to pardon this freedom under your hand. I Inclose it and also a Copy of a Letter, from your Brother Paine, a very Curious one indeed. A model of Invective and dulness. My next may give you the Answer to it. You will be able without any Aid to satisfie Mr. Adams queries about Sea Coast Men. I am as usual Your sincere Friend.


Title: Editorial Note
From:
To:

      Returning home to Braintree in December 1775, exhausted by his labors in the congress, John Adams “vacationed” by serving on the Massachusetts Council until 24 January 1776. He arrived back in Philadelphia on 8 February and the next day plunged into work during the busiest and most significant period the congress had yet known. In old age Adams recalled, probably without much exaggeration, what his days had been like: “I was incessantly employed, through the whole Fall, Winter and Spring of 1775 and 1776 during their Sittings and on Committees on mornings and Evenings, and unquestionably did more business than any other Member of that house” (Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 3:335). From February through August 1776 he was unquestionably one of the most active members, for he served on over thirty committees as well as participating in debate.
      Adams and those with whom he was associated now had one goal toward which they were driving—independence—but their route had to be a circuitous one in deference to the moderate majority who yet hoped to avoid the dreaded decision from which there could be no turning back. As Adams saw it, the congress could take two steps that would bring independence within grasp: opening American ports to foreign trade, and urging the colonies to replace remnants of colonial institutions with governments of their own choosing. The first was no new issue, for the congress had debated it in the fall of 1775, and Adams had written at length to several of his correspondents seeking their views. The expiration of non-exportation on 1 March 1776 forced the congress to take a stand. In his Diary, Adams recorded some of the debate on the opening of the ports, but as usual he told nothing of his own contribution (sameDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 2:229–230). He stood, however, with George Wythe, who insisted that trade could begin only if Americans acted as a free people, for foreign nations would ignore the opening of the ports so long as Americans continued subject to Great Britain. The resolutions finally adopted by the congress on 6 April fell short of Adams’ hopes, for they were not connected with the grand object of independence (sameDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 3:377; JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 4:257–259).
      The faction pressing for separation had more success with securing a resolution on independent governments for the several colonies, and here Adams played an important part. As early as November 1775, he had sketched for Richard Henry Lee an outline of government (JA to Lee, 15 Nov., above); and Paine’s Common Sense, lacking, as Adams felt, any proper grasp of what government should be, directed his thinking once again to the kind of governments the colonies ought to institute. The upshot was his Thoughts on Government, prepared in varying form for several members who requested his ideas (Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 3:331; ante 27 March–April, below). But Adams sought to come at his objective indirectly as well, for the instructions to the Commissioners to Canada, drafted by a committee which he chaired, called upon them to urge Canadians to establish forms of government of their own choice (No. III, below). The next step came on 10 May, when the congress gave similar advice to the American colonies (JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 4:342). Adams drafted a preamble to that measure that breathed the spirit of independence (No. V, below). Naturally he seized the opportunity to second Richard Henry Lee’s motion for independence when it came on 7 June (Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 3:392; JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 5:425–426).
      These were stirring and well-remembered moments in the congress, but day to day as an active committee member, Adams found much of his time taken up with more routine, but not insignificant, matters. Documentary evidence for his performance on committees is more meager than a historian or biographer would like. Moreover, Adams felt that his contribution and that of others was obscured by the insistence of Charles Thomson that only successful motions and amendments to motions need be recorded, with no mention of those that failed or of those members who made or seconded motions or entered into debate. When the congress met as a committee of the whole, in which some of the liveliest exchange occurred, nothing was officially recorded except the chairman’s report (Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 3:365 and note). James Duane’s notes on the debates record Adams’ skeptical views on long-term enlistments without substantial bounties; Jefferson’s notes give at some length Adams’ speech insisting that no distinction should be made between freemen and slaves in counting persons for the purpose of assessing taxes under the proposed articles of confederation; and Benjamin Rush in his Autobiography recollects Adams’ harsh rejoinder to the charge of Samuel Chase that New England troops were largely to blame for the failure of the Canada expedition (Burnett, ed., Letters of MembersEdmund C. Burnett, ed., Letters of Members of the Continental Congress, Washington, 1921–1936; 8 vols., 1:360; Jefferson, PapersThe Papers of Thomas Jefferson, ed. Julian P. Boyd and others, Princeton, 1950– ., 1:321–322; The Autobiography of Benjamin Rush, ed. George W. Corner, Princeton, 1948, p. 140–141). For the rest one must rely upon a few of Adams’ Diary entries and his recollections in old age.
      In broad terms, Adams served on committees that took into consideration letters from generals, officials, local bodies, and ordinary citizens confused or aggrieved. A number of his committees were concerned with military matters; thus his appointment in June to the Board of War and Ordnance was perhaps a consequence of this earlier service (JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 5:438). Such committees conferred with generals regarding the strategy of forthcoming campaigns, saw to the fortification of ports, consulted about the pay and status of battalions in South Carolina, and considered means to induce Hessian troops to desert. Adams also served on committees to ascertain the value of coins with respect to Spanish dollars and to look into the problem posed by the counterfeiting of continental bills of credit. He was named to the Committee on Spies and to one to determine the compensation owing to Secretary Thomson for services during the year past.
      Accompanying documents are those for which some evidence exists that Adams played a role in their composition or brought them before the congress. Following these is a synopsis of his membership on those committees for which there is no record of his influence on their actions. The listing gives the names of members in the order in which they appear in the Journal, the responsibilities assigned, and the dates, locations, and authorship, when known, of reports and subsequent resolutions. Toward the end of the period under review, Adams was chosen a member of two of the most important committees in 1776: that to draft a declaration of independence and that to work out a plan of treaties (JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 5:431, 433). His work on these committees, as well as on the Board of War, will have separate treatment.
      Adams’ initiatives were not confined to the give and take of committees. He successfully moved the appointment of Baron de Woedtke as brigadier general, and he introduced resolutions to encourage the manufacture of saltpeter and gunpowder (Richard Smith, Diary, in Burnett, ed., Letters of MembersEdmund C. Burnett, ed., Letters of Members of the Continental Congress, Washington, 1921–1936; 8 vols., 1:394; JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 4:209; No. I, below). He also offered a resolution of thanks to General Washington for his siege of Boston, which forced the British to evacuate that town, and proposed that a medal be struck in the General’s honor (No. IV, below). On 21 March, Adams proposed resolutions calling for the promotion of the culture of hemp, flax, cotton, and wool and the manufacture of sailcloth and duck, as well as general encouragement of agriculture, arts, manufacturing, and commerce through societies founded for the purpose. Such pursuits were part of the logistics of war and had the “Air of Independence,” but passed virtually verbatim. Adams had urged the growing of hemp and the promotion of agriculture as far back as 1763 in his Humphrey Ploughjogger and “U” newspaper pieces (Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 2:234–235; 3:372–373; JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 4:224; JA, PapersPapers of John Adams, ed. Robert J. Taylor and others, Cambridge, 1977– ., 1:67–71). Husbandry was still close to his heart.


Title: I. Resolutions on Saltpeter and Powder Mills, 23 February 1776
From: Adams, John,Continental Congress
To:

       In Congress, February 23, 1776

      Resolved, That it be recommended to the several Assemblies, Conventions, Councils or Committees of Safety, and Committees of Correspondence and Inspection in the United Colonies, to exert themselves in devising farther ways and means of promoting and encouraging the manufacture of Salt-petre, and of introducing that manufacture into private families.
      Resolved, That it be recommended to the several Assemblies and Conventions in the United Colonies, that they immediately establish public works in each and every county in their respective Colonies, at the expence of such Colonies, for the manufacture of salt-petre, and appoint Committees of their own members immediately to set up such manufactures.
      Resolved, That it be recommended to the Assemblies, Conventions, or Councils of Safety of every Colony, forthwith to erect Powder Mills in their respective Colonies, and appoint Committees to build such mills, and procure persons well skilled in the manufacture of powder, at the expence of such Colonies.
      Resolved, That a Committee of this Congress, to consist of one member from each Colony, be appointed to consider of farther ways and means of promoting and encouraging the manufactures of Salt-petre, Sulphur and Powder in these Colonies, and to correspond with the Several Assemblies and Conventions, and Councils or Committees of Safety in the Several Colonies, that this Congress may be, from time to time, truly informed of the progress made in these manufactures in all the Colonies.


Title: IV. John Hancock to George Washington, 2 April 1776
From: Hancock, John,Adams, John,Jay, John,Hopkins, Stephen,Continental Congress,President of Congress
To: Washington, George

       Sir
       Philadelphia, April 2d. 1776

      It gives me the most sensible Pleasure to convey to you, by Order of Congress, the only Tribute, which a free People will ever consent to Pay; the Tribute of Thanks and Gratitude to their Friends and Benefactors.
      The disinterested and patriotic Principles which led you to the Field, have also led you to Glory: and it affords no little Consolation to your Countrymen to reflect, that, as a peculiar Greatness of Mind induced you to decline any Compensation for serving them, except the Pleasure of promoting their Happiness, they may, without your Permission, bestow upon you the largest Share of their Affections and Esteem.
      Those Pages in the Annals of America, will record your Title to a conspicuous Place in the Temple of Fame, which shall inform Posterity, that under your Directions, an undisciplined Band of Husbandmen, in the Course of a few Months, became Soldiers; and that the Desolation meditated against the Country, by a brave Army of Veterans, commanded by the most experienced Generals, but employ’d by bad Men in the worst of Causes, was, by the Fortitude of your Troops, and the Address of their Officers, next to the kind Interposition of Providence, confined for near a Year, within such narrow Limits, as scarcely to admit more Room than was necessary for the Encampments and Fortifications, they lately abandoned.
      Accept therefore, Sir, the Thanks of the United Colonies, unanimously declared by their Delegates, to be due to you, and the brave Officers and Troops under your Command: and be pleased to communicate to them, this distinguished Mark of the Approbation of their Country.
      The Congress have ordered a Golden Medal, adapted to the Occasion, to be struck, and when finished, to be presented to you.

       I have the Honour to be, with every Sentiment of Esteem, Sir, Your most obedt. and very hble Sert.
       John Hancock, Presidt.


Title: V. Preamble to Resolution on Independent Governments, 15 May 1776
From: Adams, John,Continental Congress
To:

        15 May 1776

      Whereas his Britannic Majesty, in conjunction with the lords and commons of Great Britain, has, by a late act of Parliament, excluded the inhabitants of these United Colonies from the protection of his crown; And whereas, no answer, whatever, to the humble petitions of the colonies for redress of grievances and reconciliation with Great Britain, has been or is likely to be given; but, the whole force of that kingdom, aided by foreign mercenaries, is to be exerted for the destruction of the good people of these colonies; And whereas, it appears absolutely irreconcileable to reason and good Conscience, for the people of these colonies now to take the oaths and affirmations necessary for the support of any government under the crown of Great Britain, and it is necessary that the exercise of every kind of authority under the said crown should be totally suppressed, and all the powers of government exerted, under the authority of the people of the colonies, for the preservation of internal peace, virtue, and good order, as well as for the defence of their lives, liberties, and properties, against the hostile invasions and cruel depredations of their enemies; therefore, resolved, &c.


Title: VII. Committee Report on Esek Hopkins’ Letter, 7 June 1776
From: Adams, John,Continental Congress
To:

        ante 7 June 1776

      The Committee to whom was referred the Letter from Eseck Hopkins Commodore of the Continental Fleet dated Providence May 22 1776, have taken the same into Consideration and come to the following Resolutions.
      Resolved that Mr. Charles Walker of N. Providence ought to be paid the Value of the Sloop Endeavour, together with four Tons of Lignum Vita and one hundred Cedar Posts taken by the said Commodore for the Use of the Colonies, and the Damages the said Walker has Sustained by the taking and Detention of Said Vessell, Lignum Vita and Posts the Said Walker giving a full Acquittance for the Said Vessell Goods, and Damages.
      Resolved that Commodore Hopkins be directed, the Gov. and Council of the Colony of Connect. be Requested to appoint judicious and indifferent Persons to appraise the Vessell and Goods aforesaid at the Time when they were taken into the service of the Colonies, and to estimate the full Damages sustained by the said Mr. Walker, and report it to this Congress forthwith, that the said Walker may be indemnified by this Congress.
      Resolved that the Said Walker have his Election to receive his Vessell again and the Hire of her, and his Damages, or the Value of her to be ascertained as aforesaid.


Title: VIII. Committee Report on Letters from William Palfrey, 17 June 1776
From: Adams, John,Continental Congress
To:

        ante 17 June 1776

      The Committee to whom were referred, the Letter from William Palfrey Esqr. Paymaster General, dated New York 19 May, in closing his Weekly Account ending 18 May 1776, and another Letter from the said Paymaster General dated at N. York 3 June 1776 inclosing his Weekly interest Return to May 31, have considered the same and come to the following Resolutions, vizt.

       Resolved, as the opinion of this Committee that  Dollars be sent to the Deputy Paymaster General in the Eastern Department for the Pay and other Uses of the Troops there.

      Resolved, as the opinion of this Committee that the Letters and Accounts aforesaid be referred to the Committee on the Treasury, to be filed in the Auditors office.


Title: IX. Committee Report on Fortifying Harbors, 24 June 1776
From: Adams, John,Continental Congress
To:

        ante 24 June 1776

      The Committee appointed to consider what Harbours are proper to be fortified, have attended that Service, and come to the following Resolutions. vizt
      Resolved as the opinion of this Committee, that the Harbour of Cape Ann, in the Colony of Massachusetts Bay, ought to be fortified, and to this End that Twenty Pieces of large Cannon, with Ten Eighteen Pounders and Ten Twenty four Pounders, be procured at the Continental Expence and sent to that Place, and that the Commanding officer in the Eastern Department be directed to order an Engineer to dispose of said Cannon to the best Advantage for the Defence of that Harbour, and also to order a sufficient Number of Troops there to do the necessary Work.
      Resolved That Twenty two Pieces of heavy Cannon, Eighteen and Twenty four Pounders, be furnished at the Expence of the Continent for the Fortification of the Harbour of New London, and that Governor Trumbull be impowered to raise three Companies of Troops on the Continental Establishment of Pay, Rations, and Disbursements, to be stationed at New London to Garrison the Forts there and defend the Harbour.
      Resolved that the Marine Committee be impowered and instructed, to build, Man and equip two large Row Gallies for the Defence of little Egg Harbour, so called, in the Colony of New Jersey.


Title: From John Adams to James Warren, 11 February 1776
From: Adams, John
To: Warren, James

      Dr sir
      Philadelphia Feb. 11. 1775 i.e. 1776

     Mr. Archibald Buchannan, and Mr. Walter Tolley both of Maryland, and hearty Friends of America, introduced to me by my Friend Mr. Chace Chase, are bound to the Camp, and Mr. Chace requested a Letter from me.

     Chace is a Man of common sense.
     I received your Packett. I am obliged to you for opening the Letter from our Friend Mr. Adams, and if you had opened all the others, you should have been equally welcome, altho I would not give a similar Permission to more than two or three other Persons in the World. I have no Correspondences for private Amusement, or Personal Interest, and therefore most Letters to me, might be seen by any public Man of public Virtue, good understanding and Common Decency without Danger, Inconvenience, or offence. But as so many Persons who have not all those Qualities, become in the Course of things public Persons, We cannot be too cautious I find what We write, whom We write to, and how it is conveyed.
     I have Seen the Copy of a Letter. Let the Writers Passions fume away, unnoticed. Peepers often Spy disagreable objects. Let them pay for their Peeping. I have Reason to complain of Negligence in one Gentleman and I fear, of Unkindness in another upon this occasion, but I will not complain. They shall take all Advantages against me that they can get. They cannot hurt me nor you. The only Advantage they have got upon this occasion is to torment themselves, and gratify others. The Gentleman promised me to deliver those Letters into the Hand of Mr. S. A. but he did not.

      I have only this Moment to write. Yours, sincerely,


Title: From John Adams to John Trumbull, 13 February 1776
From: Adams, John
To: Trumbull, John

      Dr Sir
      Philadelphia 13 Feb. 1776

     I take this opportunity by Mr. Romain to write you one Line more for the sake of reminding you of my Existence, and requesting that you would favour me with authentic Evidence under your Hand of yours, than any Thing I have to Say.
     Politicks are a Labyrinth, without a Clue—to write you on that subject would be endless. N. York I think is now in critical state, but I hope We shall Save it. Mr. Dickinson is to march at the Head of a Battallion of Philadelphian associators to the Assistance of, Gen. Lee and Lord Sterling. He has this afternoon been harranguing the Battallions in the State House Yard with the Ardor and Pathos of a Greecian Commander, as it is reported.
     By Intelligence hourly arriving from abroad We are more and more confirmed, that a Kind of Confederation will be formed among the Crowned Skulls, and numbskulls of Europe, against Human Nature.
     Prussia, defended itself last War, against France, Spain, Germany and Russia, not with standing its Vicinity to those Empires and Kingdoms. America, will have a Combination not less Formidable to resist perhaps, but We are Three Thousand Miles off. If these Colonies are not as Powerfull as Prussia what is the Reason?
     It will be said Prussia is an absolute Monarchy, America, a Chaos at present and it can be at best, but a Republic.
     To this I answer, So much the better. For, that a Monarchy absolute or limited is better for War than a Republic I absolutely deny. On the Contrary look through the whole World and universal History and you will find that Republics have been invariably the most warlike Governments, and you will find no Instance of a Republic conquered by a Monarchy, by Arms, nor any other Way but by Corruption and Division. If therefore the Colonies can be Secured against Corruption and Division I think with the Blessing of Heaven, they may hope to defend themselves. In all Events they will try the Experiment. Pray write me your Connecticut Politicks. You, mix the Caution and Jealousy of Athens with the Valour of Sparta. But dont let your People forget or neglect to cultivate Harmony and preserve the Union.

      Your Friend


Title: From John Adams to James Warren, 14 February 1776
From: Adams, John
To: Warren, James

      Dear Sir
      Philadelphia Feb. 14. 1776

     I Shall inclose to a Lady of my Acquaintance all the News Papers which have been printed in this City, Since my arrival, by which you will See, to what Point the Tide of Political Sentiment, Setts. Scarcely a Paper comes out, without a Speculation or two in open Vindication of opinions, which Five Months ago were Said to be unpopular. A vast Majority of the People, indeed, I very well know Secretly entertained the Same Perswasions then, but injudiciously avoided Speaking out. The Restraint however, is now taken off.
     I expect to see hear the New England Papers, very soon chiming in, with the Concert.
     I have written to Mr. Sever that Congress have ordered Ten Tons of Salt Petre to the Council, to be made into Powder and requested him to communicate it to the Court. I hope every Nerve will be exerted with the Utmost Vigour to sett up Powder Mills, compleat them, and procure Persons skilled in the Manufacture of Powder. I am not without Apprehensions that such Persons will be wanted.
     I apprehend however, that there are Persons who are possessed of the necessary Knowledge of the Composition and Proportions of Ingredients. Even Mr. Reed of Weymouth I conjecture would be able to instruct others. The Same Rule, which has made a small Quantity in a Family Mortar, applied to a large Mill will make a larger Quantity. No Expence No Industry ought to be Spared.
     Dont fail, my dear Friend, to inform me, of every Step in the Progress of the Manufactures of Salt Petre and Powder.
     Measures are taking to make Cannon both of Brass and Iron. Some Experiments have been made in Maryland, Philadelphia and New York, with success. I will acquaint you with particulars as fast as I can. I am, your Friend,
     Shall We be able to get Seamen to man our Navy when our Trade shall be opened? Will they not be all better employed?


Title: To John Adams from Joseph Ward, 14 February 1776
From: Ward, Joseph
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Camp at Roxbury 14 Feby. 1776

     We hoped to have the pleasure of seeing you again in Camp before you set out for Philadelphia, but as you don’t like a “sleepy Camp” I can easily account for your preferring the Senate. The time perhaps is not far distant when the Camp will be wakeful and active—and to leave us without excuse, I wish we may have a sufficient quantity of the Needful. The Regiments of Militia which were ordered are coming into Camp fast and in a few days will I suppose all be in; we shall then have a powerful Army, but what shall we do for —— ? Unless we soon have a larger supply, I can think of but one way to conquer that nest of Tories Pirates Robbers and Murders, which have so long disgraced the Capital of New England, by storm. May the God of the Armies of Israel direct our Arms.
     Every man of sentiment or consideration in the Army is now seriously attentive to the great object before us, and concerned how we shall accomplish that which all think must be done. It is certainly a most serious and critical day with us, as also with America in general, and we eminently need the assistance of Him “who ruleth in the Armies of Heaven and among the inhabitants of the world.” I will venture to communicate (for once) my poor but serious thoughts upon this most important affair. If a large supply of powder does not soon arrive I humbly think that the call of Providence will be clear for storming the Town, and I am for obeying this voice of Heaven and would enter the City with the whole Army. I am Sir with very great Esteem Your most Hum. Servt.,

      Joseph Ward

      P.S. Some Deserters and several other persons have within a few days come out of Boston, but bring no material news; they inform that the troops continue sickly, the tory spirits pretty low but something revived with George’s Speech and other tory proceedings in England, that they expect we shall disturb their rest in Boston before Spring, &c.
      Last Night the Enemy burnt a number of houses on Dorchester Point.


Title: From John Adams to Thomas Crafts Jr., 18 February 1776
From: Adams, John
To: Crafts, Thomas Jr.

      Dear sir
      Philadelphia Feb. 18. 1776

     Since my arrival in this City and not before, I received your Favour of December the sixteenth.
     I am very sorry to learn that you ever was even for a Moment in a State of Scepticism concerning the Existence and Reality of sincere Friendship. Surely there is sincerity, surely there is Friendship among Men, altho it must be confessed that too Many Persons ground it on improper Principles and too easily forget its Feelings. I rejoice, however that your Faith returned so soon.
     You was not forgotten, my dear sir, by any of your Friends here, but alass, it was not in their Power to do more than they did. It was the Wish of your Friends here, that you and Mr. Trott, should have all those Rewards from your Country which you can desire, and it is still their earnest Desire, that you and Mr. Revere should be provided for. But it is not in their Power to effect it, and whether it ever will be is uncertain. You know the State of Coll. Brewers Case, an experienced and a brave officer, removed from a Regiment and the General Officers thought


Title: From John Adams to William Heath, 18 February 1776
From: Adams, John
To: Heath, William

      Dear sir
      Philadelphia Feby. 18. 1776

     Your Favour of January 22d. never reached me, untill my arrival at this City.
     I am much obliged to you for the Information you have given me of the Character and services of Coll. Baldwin, and should be happy to do any Thing in my Power, to obtain Justice for so deserving an officer. Upon shewing your Letter and another from him to some of my Colleagues, they are of opinion that Coll. Baldwin will have a better Chance for obtaining an Adequate Establishment, by making a Representation of the Facts to his Excellency supported by a Line from you, and General Putnam who I perceive has written to my Friend Mr. Adams in his favour, and requesting General Washington to represent them to Congress, or to inclose your Representation, than by any Motion that we can make because a suspicion may arise that the Motion is made by us, without any Intimation from the General because of some Disgust that he may have taken at Coll. Baldwin, which though it would be a groundless would be a natural Jealousy.
     I dont mean by this, to decline making such a Motion. I will readily do it, but should be glad of the Generals opinion to assist it, and also should be glad to know whether Coll. Baldwin had any Command in the Army and what it is, or has any station there besides that of overseer or Director of the Works and whether he has any Commission or Warrant and what it is—because he informed me, he cannot now receive more than Captains Pay. I should be glad to know what Title he had to that.
     I should also wish to know your opinion of his Qualifications to serve as an Engineer, in Canada or any other Department, and indeed what other Engineers there are in your Army. Engineers are very scarce, rare and dear. We want many, and seem to have none. I think it high Time We should have an Academy for their Education. Our Country abounds with young Gentlemen of Genius and Learning. It grieves me that so few of them think of turning their Talents to so honourable, so usefull, and so profitable a Branch of Science. I am sir with great Esteem and Respect your very humble servant,

      John Adams


Title: From John Adams to James Warren, 18 February 1776
From: Adams, John
To: Warren, James

      My dear Sir

       Feby. 18. 1776

     We have at last hit upon a Plan which promises fair for Success.
     Dr. Franklin, and Mr. Chase of Maryland, and Mr. Charles Carroll of Carrollton, are chosen a Committee to go to Canada. I must confess I have very great Confidence, in the Abilities and Integrity, the Political Principles and good Disposition of this Committee.
     Franklins Character you know. His masterly Acquaintance with the French Language, his extensive Correspondence in France, his great Experience in Life, his Wisdom, Prudence, Caution: his engaging Address: united to his unshaken Firmness in the present American system of Politicks and War, point him out as the fittest Character, for this momentous Undertaking.
     Chase, is in younger Life, under forty: But deeply impressed with a sense of the Importance of securing Canada, very active, eloquent, Spirited, and capable.
     Carroll’s Name and Character, are equally unknown to you. I was introduced to him, about Eighteen Months ago in this City, and was much pleased with his Conversation.
     He has a Fortune, as I am well informed, which is computed to be worth Two hundred Thousand Pounds Sterling. He is a Native of Maryland, and his Father is Still living. He had a liberal Education in France, and is well acquainted with the french Nation. He Speaks their Language as easily as ours, and what is perhaps of more Consequence, than all the rest, he was educated in the Roman Catholic Religion, and Still continues to worship his Maker according to the Rites of that Church. In the Cause of American Liberty, his Zeal Fortitude and Perseverance have been So conspicuous that he is Said to be marked out for peculiar Vengeance by the Friends of Administration: But he continues to hazard his all: his immense Fortune, the largest in America, and his Life. This Gentlemans Character, If I foresee aright, will hereafter make a greater Figure in America. His Abilities are very good, his Knowledge and Learning extensive, I have seen Writings of his which would convince you of this. You may perhaps hear before long more about them.
     These three Gentlemen compose a Committee, which I think promises great Things.
     But We have done more. We have impowered the Committee to take with them, another Gentleman of Maryland Mr. John Carroll, a Roman Catholic Priest, and a Jesuit, a Gentleman of learning and Abilities. This Gentleman will administer Baptism to the Canadian Children, and bestow Absolution upon Such as have been refused it by the toryfied Priests in Canada. The Anathema’s of the Church So terrible to the Canadians, having had a disagreable Effect upon them.
     In Addition to the whole General Lee is ordered into Canada, to take upon him the Command of the whole Expedition. His address, his Fluency in French, his Activity, his great Experience and Skill, We hope will Succeed.

     I long to hear from N. England that the three Regiments are marched. It would damp me, very much to hear that our People continue to hesitate about Bounties, and Trifles.
     The Unanimous Voice of the Continent is Canada must be ours Quebec must be taken.
     I think the most prudent Measures, have now been adopted, and We must leave the Event. If We fail now, I shall be easy because I know of nothing more or better that We can do. I did not feel so well Satisfied, after the News of the Failure at Quebec.
     It is true that We want Lee both at Cambridge and New York: But We cannot have him in three Armies at once, and Canada Seems to me, the most dangerous Post, and that there is the greatest Necessity for him there. Schuyler is to command in N. York, with Lord Sterling under him who is a very good officer.
     The Importance of Canada, arises from this, and occasions our remarkable Unanimity at present in deciding the Affairs of it. In the Hands of our Enemies, it would enable them to influence all the Indians upon the Continent, and perhaps induce them to take up the Hatchet, and commit their Robberies and Murders upon the Frontiers of all the Southern Colonies as well as to pour down Regulars Canadians and Indians together upon the Borders of the Northern. I am, my dear Sir, unfeignedly your Friend,


Title: From John Adams to Charles Lee, 19 February 1776
From: Adams, John
To: Lee, Charles

      My dear Sir
      Philadelphia Feby. 19. 1776

     The Congress have seen such a Necessity of an able Commander in Canada, as to destine you to that most arduous Service. I tremble for your Health, yet I hope the Campaign will rather promote it than otherwise.
     We want you att N. York. We want you at Cambridge. We want you in Virginia. But Canada seems of more Importance than any of those Places. And therefore you are sent there. I wish you as many Laurells as Wolf and Montgomery reaped there, with an happier Fate, Health and long Life, after a glorious Return.
     But I am ashamed to go on, in such a Strain, when writing to you whose Time is so much better employed than in reading it, when I took up my Pen only to introduce to your Acquaintance a Countryman of yours and a Citizen of the World, to whom a certain Heretical Pamphlet called Common sense, is imputed. His Name is Paine. He is travelling to N. York for his Curiosity and wishes to see a Gentleman, whose Character he so highly respects.
     A luckier a happier Expedition than yours to N. York never was projected. The whole Whigg World is blessing you for it and none of them more than your Friend and sert.,

      John Adams