Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 10 May 1794
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

            my Dearest Friend
            Quincy May 10th 1794

          I received your’s of April 27th & 30th together with the Pamphlets last Evening. two of them from the spirit they breathe denote their origin to be of southern extract. they are a counter part with the attacks upon the Secretary made last year in the House. I have ever thought with respect to that Man, “beware of that spair Cassius—” this might be done consistant with prudence, and without the illiberal abuse in many respects so plentifully cast upon him. the writers however discover too plainly that envy Pride and malice are the Sources from whence their opposition arrises, in stead of the publick good. they are written in the stile & spirit of Honestus, a Rancourous malice or a dissapointed ambition at bottom. you and I know that in two Instances the Letter writer Lies most wickedly and from thence, if he could not be convicted in other instances yet we might safely conclude that many things which he alledges against the secretary are equally false, and I shall Say of the knavish writer as the Son of Vattel says of Genet, that the Books which he abuses will out live his malice and his Mushroom Letters: the North and South appear to be arranged very formidably against each other in politicks and one judas appears from this quarter too conspicuous for his honour, or reputation. tis said here that the Southern Members have promised him the vice Presidency the next Election if the southern states force us into a war— I hope their Negroes will fight our Battles, and pay these real & haughty Aristocrats all the Service due to them, from the Real & true Republicans. the Pamphlet upon

Prophesy I shall send to mr Cranch who has some time been upon the subject, and told me not long since, that he was persuaded we were entering upon the third woe Trumpet. he has borrowd the last volms of Gebeline lately which he is delighted with. when I have read the dreadfull Scenes which have past, and are still acting in France, when I behold so Numerous and powerfull a Nation overturning all their old established forms both of Government and of Religion opposing & baffeling so successfully so many powers, and that under no Government, that deserves the Name, I have been led to contemplate it, as no common or natural event, arrising from the pressure of any increasd burdens or any new infringment upon their Priveledges, but the over ruling hand of Providence fulfilling great designs. it is the Lords work and it is Marvelous in our Eyes— the skirt of the cloud will pass over us—and thankfull may we be if justice and Righteousness may preserve us from its Artiliry
          we are very dry, quite as much so as the last Season— I aim at no rivalship I only wish to fullfill my duty and pursue that which shall be for our mutual advantage. yet I fear I shall be deemd an unprofitable Servant and that some things will be left undone; which ought to have been done. I have the satisfaction however of thinking that I am more usefull here than I could be by residing at Philadelphia
          I have very little hopes to give you respecting our aged Parent, who has had a relapse, and a very severe one, but has survived it, and is again better, tho mere Skin and bone, and unable to walk a step alone. tis the decline of Nature aided by a long Sickness. mr Cranch has accepted the post office— I check every rising wish & suppress every anxious desire for your return, when I see how necessary you are to the welfare and protection of a Country which I love, and a people who will one day do justice to Your memory the reflection however of always having done what you considerd as your duty, will out weigh all popular Breath and virtue be its own reward— I am most / Tenderly and affectionatly / Your

            A Adams

            mr Jeffry has sent me the english papers to the 6th of March, and I have been reading the Parlimentary debates the President must feel a pleasure & satisfaction at the justice done to his wise and prudent conduct, and the enconiums paid to his Merrit. Britain has playd a knavish Game towards us, the extent of which, even those who condemn her conduct towards Neutral powers, do not appear

to be fully apprizd of. I see not but she must humble herself and treat with the Ruling powers in France, or be overwhelmd herself.
            adieu adieu—


Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 11 May 1794
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

            my Dearest Friend
            Quincy April [May] 11 1794

          This day has been our May meeting and without clubs or even Drunkeness, tho we have little purity to boast of in that respect, our Election has been calmly carried, & your Brother chosen. it seems the Name is in high estimation, as the Prophet Samll. find himself not only first but second, being Elected by the people both Govenour & Liut Govenour which I believe is the first instance of the kind in this State. the Land I wrote you about was this day sold for more than a hundred pounds as your Brother informs me, and concequently I was out bidden. Dr Phips purchased it, as your Brother Supposes with an intention of Building upon it. the Town have agreed to sell the front seats in the Meeting House for pews—and your Brother has told them that they shall have that in which we sit, for the use of the Aged, at what it will fetch and he means to purchase for you one of the others. I tell him I chuse that upon the right hand. I suppose they will be high, as that of old captain Beals was sold a few weeks ago at 40 pounds— Captain Beal will purchase one of them I presume—
          Dr Bracket of this Town lies dead. he was getting into practise & was much esteemed. mr Howard who mareid your Aunt Dyed last

Saturday. Your Mother I think is better than she was a week ago. we are extreemly dry here, quite as much so as the last spring. we have but little News. if as tis reported Robertspear is absconded from Paris—some important change will take place in their affairs. he may however have a hydra Head I see by the N york papers that the Gullotine has been advertized to be seen there. I think it should be as “advertized in England, Here is to be seen the Goulotine of the French—and the Wild Beasts”
          I begin to expect your return, and one week of expectation will appear longer than a Month when I know you fixt. I am Sorry that the dry weather will give to my labours so unfavourable an appearence
          present me kindly to all inquiring Friends and, as ever I am wholy / Yours

            A Adams


Title: John Adams to Charles Adams, 11 May 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Charles

            Dr. Charles
            Philadelphia May 11. 1794

          Your Favour of April 19. I believe has not yet been acknowledged. The Extracts from the King of Prussia were very acceptable.
          Yesterday I received your favour of May 9th.— You ask whether there might not exist Such an Equality in Society as the Democrats of this Day Seem to advocate? Yes my Son, there are many Such

Societies, in the Forrests of America, called Indian Tribes. Yet among these there are Princely Chiefs, noble Families and Aristocratical Sachems and Warriours. Plato’s Laws, are a fictitious Example— But he thought himself obliged to prohibit Commerce and all Communication with Foreigners. Lycurgus prohibited Commerce & Intercourse with foreigners and made an equal Division of Lands it is Said. The Lawgivers of the East, both in China and in India prohibited Commerce or at least Navigation. Yet in China, they have an oppressive Aristocracy, tho under an Emperor and in India their Casts established as horrid Inequalities as any in Europe.
          If you admit Arts and Sciences, Manufactures, Commerce and Industry into your Society, you must provide against all Inequalities of Property which will be the natural and unavoidable fruit of them.
          If you exclude all Art and Industry, you must be Savages, and Submit to all the Evils of that State of society. Yet even there there are Inequalities, of Birth as well as Merit. The Tartars & Arabs who lead the Lives of shepherds are Said to be more absolutely under the Influence of particular hereditary families, than the Indians of America the Negroes of Africa or the polished Nations of Europe.
          Plato not only equalized Property, or rather established a Community of Property: but in order to make this practicable or even conceivable he was obliged to introduce a Community of Wives and Children: knowing that unequal families would rise up, if Individuals had Wives and Children— But all systems so unnatural will forever be found chimerical: and impossible.
          New England is happy from her Education and Institutions: but her happiness is preserved by continual Emigrations into the Wilderness. fill up that Country with People, and their manners & Institutions will change.
          The other Evils you mention are Corruptions in Elections which arise from Ambition more than Avarice. Ambition or Emulation would exist where there is no Property, or an Equality of Property or a Community of Property. Emulation would produce Jealousy and Envy and consequently Crimes, in every state of society you can conceive, even that the most destitute of Property.— Love allso would produce disputes and Crimes in all possible states of society— even in Platos Commonwealth— For neither Love of Women nor of Children could be extinguished—nor all Knowledge of Parents and Children prevented.
          I am pleased to see your Mind taking a turn to such Speculations,

and am glad you have got an office to your Wish. The Baron I fear will find too much Ennui in his retreat. Yet I long for mine— If I had his Land and even his small Income I should be tempted to follow his Example. I am indeed weary. May you, my son find an easier Path in Life, than that into which Providence has cast / your affectionate Father

            John Adams.


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 12 May 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dearest Friend
            Philadelphia May 12. 1794

          The Weather is here very hot and dry, which renders our daily Service in Congress more irksome and occasions Some Anxiety for the health of the People and more for the growth of the fruits. I hope you have more rain and less warmth.
          The House of R. have a Committee out, to prepare a Bill for the Ways and means: how Soon they will report I know not: how long it will take the Members after the Report to make up their Minds, is also uncertain— But I think when the Senate get Possession of the Bill, it will not require so long a time for them to decide upon it, some Way or other.— I cannot flatter myself however that I can leave this City, in less than a fortnight. If I can fairly get in motion homewards by the 26th I shall be happy.
          I hear that the Friends of Mr Adams were driven to their Shifts in Boston. Obliged to assemble Lackies & footmen and Coachmen and an hundred free Negroes, to make up their Number. If this is true, I am sorry for it. The old Tories and their Satellites, have done much Injury to this Country by their constant Indulgence of their hatred of the old Gentleman and their ill natured Opposition to him. He will forever defeat them, unless the People loose all sense of Justice as well as Gratitude. He has more Merit than they all. and in my

Opinion will be as good a fœderalist as any of them would be, after being chosen Governor. We shall never see a Governor an Overzealous Fœderalist.
          Clinton’s Competitor is taken Away from the Evil to come. And there will be no Contest or but a faint one in that state, Unless Burr should become a Candidate.
          Thomas has attended the Court at Chester and York town and is now I suppose at Lancaster. He is pleased with his tour. Oh my farm when shall I see thee— Oh my dear Wife— But there will be no End of my tragic Oh’s and tragic Ah’s.— / With the tenderest Affection

            J. A


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 15 May 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dearest Friend
            Phil. May 15. 1794.

          The Alteration of Post Days or some other Cause has disappointed me of a Letter from you this Week, which is the first time I have failled of a Letter on Monday for several months.
          The Weather has been very hot and dry here. Yesterday however We had a Light shower: but to day it is very hot again.
          The House is slow upon the Ways and means the essential Measure which remains— But I think We shall rise by the first of June, and I fear not before. a tedious Six months it has been to me.
          The Senate have given a gentle Check to a very contemptuous Reprobation of the Measures of Congress, voted in the statehouse yard by a Number of Tobacconists & sugar Bakers &c
          By the Way this statehouse Yard is a beautiful Thing formed on an English Plan, like the Inclosure in Grosvenor Square. I walk there every day for Air and Exercise in the shade. It is not a Paines Hill nor a stow, nor a Leasows—but it is pretty. I am, Patience almost / exhausted, tenderly tenderly tenderly yrs.

            J. A


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 17 May 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dearest Friend
            Philadelphia May 17. 1794

          The long continuance of the session, and the uncommon heat and drought of the Weather have made this, to me an unpleasant Spring. And to increase my Mortification, I have this Week received

no Letter from you. I have not for Several months before, failed to receive a delicious Letter worth a dozen of mine, once a Week.
          Well! Boston comes on! Mr Morton is now to be its Leader! How changed in Reputation Since 1788.!
          I wonder not at the Choice of Well-born Winthrop. He might I Suppose have been chosen at any time. His Father was one of my best Friends. and The Son was a good son of Liberty. I know of nothing to his Disadvantage.
          The Fœderalists committed an egregious Blunder, in a very unwarrantable and indecent Attempt, I had almost Said upon the freedom of Elections, at their previous Meeting for the Choice of Governor. The Opposite Party to be sure practice Arts nearly as unwarrantable, in secret, and by send agents with printed Votes— But this is no Justification unless upon Catos Principle In corruptâ civitate Corruptio est licita. i.e. In a corrupt City corruption is lawful!
          Elections are going the Usual Way in our devoted Country. Oh! that I had done with them.— We shall realize the raving in the Tempest, which Charles quoted to me in his last Letter.

            “In the Commonwealth We shall by contraries
            execute all Things: for no kind of Trafic
            shall We admit; no name of Magistrate;
            Letters will not be known, wealth, Poverty
            and Use of service none; contract, Succession
            bowen bound of Land, tilth, Vineyard none;
            No Use of Metal, corn or wine or oil;
            No Occupation, all Men idle all
            And Women too; but innocent and pure;
            No Sovereignty.
            All Things in common nature should produce
            Without sweat or endeavour; Treason Felony
            Sword Pike, knife, Gun, or need of any Engine
            Would I not have; But nature should bring forth
            of its own kind, all foizon, all Abundance
            to feed my innocent People.”

          This is Lubberland indeed— Le Pays de Cocain, I believe the French call it.— but it is terra incognita.— I am afraid We shall have too many of its qualities without its innocence.
          I have no hope of Congress rising, before the last of May— Never in my Life did I long to see you more— I am most ardently / your

            J. A


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 19 May 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dearest Friend
            Philadelphia May 19. 1794

          It is a fortnight to day Since I had a Letter from you but it Seems to me a month— I cannot blame you for one of yours is worth four of mine.
          Three Bills, for laying Taxes are yet unfinished and there is little

Reason to hope that they can be finished this Week, perhaps not before the End of the next. I cannot see much room to hope to get away before the first of June. a tedious Seven Months it has been and will be to me.
          The Committee of Merchants Mr Norris of Salem and Mr Lyman of Boston, have Seen how the Land lays here. They have returned to Boston with more correct Views of Parties in Congress than they brought with them.
          The Projects for War, have been detected and exposed in every Shape, and under every disguise that has been given them, and hitherto defeated. What another Year may bring forth I know not.— Britain will not be in a very good condition to provoke a fresh Ennemy, in the Spring of 1795 with her 3 Per Cents Consolidated down at 55 or less; and they will probably be as low as that, even if the combined Powers should have better Successes than they have had.
          I have no Letter from Thomas last Week. He was at Lancaster.
          Mr John, I hear rises in his Reputation at the Bar as well as in the Esteem of his fellow Citizens. His Writings have given him a greater Consideration in this Place than he is aware of.— I am Sometimes told that I ought to be proud of him; and truly I dont want to be told this. He will be made a Politician too soon. But he is a Man of great Experience, and I hope sound Philosophy. He was a greater statesman at Eighteen, than some senators I have known at fifty.— But he must learn Silence and Reserve, Prudence, Caution—above all to curb his Vanity and collect himself. faculties or Virtues that his Father has often much wanted.— I have often thought he has more Prudence at 27. than his Father at 58.—
          I am, impatiently yours

            J. A.


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 19 May 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dearest Friend
            Philadelphia May 19. 1794

          I have this morning recd your kind Letters of 10 & 11th. of May.— You mention Land bought by Dr Phipps which you had mentioned to me: but I have not recd any Letter from you which hinted at any Land— By this I fear I lost a Letter last monday by some fault in the Post.— however I want no more land at present.
          A Pew I should like to have, and a double one too if possible.— I shall leave you & my Brother to continue the Business as well as you can.
          The Weather is at least as dry here as with you— The Seasons of Rain seem to be past. such a Succession of dry Years, no man remembers.
          My honoured Mother, I fear, will not Stay with Us long. Dr Welsh writes me discouragingly about her. My Duty to her.—
          The Joke about V. Presidency is but a Joke, I believe— The Man was tickled with his Pro temship, but I dont credit the other Insinuation— He has not been so Steady however this session, as usual.
          My Brother will not vote for War, I hope before it is necessary as well as just. Great is the Guilt of unnecessary War.
          I have not a doubt but the farm has been well governed.— I wish the State and the Nation may be as well conducted.
          I cannot expect with any Confidence to see you before the 10th. of June.— I will sooner if I can.
          I lament the Death of a promising, ingenious Youth in Dr Bracket: My Uncle Howard was a shock of Corn fully ripe.— My Aunt and my Mother must soon be gathered.— and then there will be no body before me.
          The World is a Riddle, which Death, I hope will unravel.— Amidst all the Tryals I have gone through I have much to be grateful for— good Parents, an excellent Wife, and promising Children—tolerable Health upon the whole and competent fortune.— Success, almost without Example, in a dangerous dreadful Revolution, and Still hopes of better Times.—
          I am most earnestly yours

            J. A.


Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to John Adams, 20 May 1794
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Adams, John

            My dear sir
            Carlisle 20th: May 1794—

          I was a little disappointed in not finding a letter for me in the Post Office of this place upon my arrival here yesterday— The arrangement, of the Posts is rather inconvenient in all the towns I have yet visited where there is any— In West Chester there is none, in York & Lancaster there is but one Mail Pr Week, as also in this place— the Mail arrived here yesterday from Philadelphia & another will not arrive till monday next— By this arrangement I fear I shall miss another letter— Your’s directed to me at York—I recd: yesterday by a Gentn from that place—
          There was much business done by the Court at Lancaster during the last week—no trials of any great consequence, if the value of the property in dispute alone is estimated—but the length of time that many of them had been upon the Docquet & the expence of the parties made it a considerable object to have them swept off— Lancaster is said to be the largest inland town in America— I believe it is— the people are industrious, & of course wealthy— The richness of the land in this County affords ample compensation for any labor that is bestowed upon it— It must be a great advantage to Philadelphia to have so large a town dependent upon it for every article of foreign Growth;—
          The farmers have heared that the Embargoe is not to be continued, & the price of flour in the City; this has put them upon the move with their Flour, & I presume we did not meet less than 50 waggons heavily loaded on their way thither—many of them from this side of the Susquehannah— Our ride from Lancaster to this place, about 53 miles, was the pleasantest part of my journey— The people have got into the practice of raising Rye within a few years, instead of wheat— with this they feed their horses and make whiskey; It seems to me no very favorable symptom; & I think the change, much for the worse— We crossed the River about three miles below Harrisburg— The town was visible from the Ferry, but not distinctly. The Country for 14 or 15 miles on this side the River is beautiful beyond description— within the distance of 8 or 10 miles

from each other, there are very considerable streams of water, which turn a great number of mills of all kinds—
          Lands on this side of the River 15 years ago sold for £5 Pr Acre— they now sell for £15 tho it must be the best kind of land to command this price; Round Carlisle good land [may?] be bought for £7–10—
          My next remove will be to Reading, nearly seventy miles from this; If convenient, I shall be pleased at finding a letter for me there upon my arrival which I expect will be on Monday next—
          I am / sir / your son

            Thomas B Adams—


Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 23 May 1794
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

            my dearest Friend
            Quincy May 23d 1794

          I last evening received yours of the 12th and 15. the weather for several Days past has been extreem Hot, and as to the drougth it is much sharper than last year we have not had half an inch of rain for two Months & Scarcly a sprinkle for more than a month. neither corn or potatoes can get up, & the few things in the garden wilt like july. I am most discouraged at Farming. I have however Succeeded tolerably in keeping of the canker worm, tho some few have eluded all my vigelence. the caterpillar are also very numerous. every day convinces me of the necessity of an over seer for all the Farms. Faxon or some other Pirates, have made sad havock with the fence. we have already been obliged to carry up loads from here, and every day, new wants arrise, and every Neighbour is preying upon us— this place I can command but the other place has been too long free plunder to be easily relinquishd. we have attended to the salt Meddows, and been obliged to sit a fence against Jonathan Baxter. The embargo is a very popular measure here and there is much anxiety

least it should be discontinued flower & Grain have risen in a few days as well as Lumber. there will be speculators whilst there is Commerce. the report respecting the Election of mr Adams is I believe wholy unfounded. I never heard such a suggestion the people were much united in him, and those who did not wish him to be Govenour voted for him as Leiut Govenour the Jacobines have carried their points so far as to get Several of their Friends chosen Representitives for Boston the meeting was thin, and but little pains taken by the Friends of good order who always rest too secure in the justice of their cause, yet having had a full view of Southern politicks and Southern Elections, I begin to th[ink] we are much the purest part of the union. much as [they] hold Britain in disdain & abuse her constitution, they have adopted the most pernicious part in its most corrupted Stage— a pack of Negro drivers, they deserve chains themselves. I think you must be near exhausted by the length of the Sessions and your constant attendance
          I am glad to learn that Thomas is gone into the Country upon a circuit. I hope he will get into Buisness
          Your Mother remains much as She has been for some time past; Remember me to all inquiring Friends. mrs Brisler and Family are well, his Boy half Grown up—
          I hope Congress will soon rise, and that without doing any more mischeif—Yours affectionatly

            A Adams—


Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 24 May 1794
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

            my dearest Friend
            Quincy May 24th 1794

          Yours of the 17th came this day to me I do not know to what to ascribe the failure of my letters unless our son forgot to put them into the post office. I wrote you twice upon the very week of which you complain; & tho I have not faild writing to you once a week ever since you left me, I have not very often written twice, but some Buisness that week occurd which I wanted your opinion of. That

Morton is chosen a Rept is not more disgracefull to Boston, than that some others hold a seat there, or than Austin is to the senate but in concequence of their having such Men, they have as a Town, much less weight in the Legislature than they used to have, and the Fœderalists may blame themselves for their careless Supineness. I never approved of the measures adopted by them with respect to the choice of Govenour—but they must have been much misrepresented to you. the contest if it may be calld one was only between two candidates, & that maintaind with more Decency & decorum than any Election in any state out of N England. not a tenth part of the opposition to either which upon several Elections I have known take place with respect to Hancock and as to the report of free Negroes voting, I take it upon me to say tis Idle and false, as I never heard a syllable of it. if you had been here you would have been surprizd to find how little bustle there was about the matter. the people were generally disposed to support mr Adams, (as the full vote he obtaind will prove) either as Govenour or Leiut Govenour—and tho’ there was some News paper strictures and Bilingsgate, yet there was very little of it. I suppose some of the stories, have been fabricated to keep our virtuous Southern Brethren in countanance. Boston has behaved very well in many respects, during the whole of these troublesome times, and their democrats have not gone such lengths as in New York or Philadelphia. Jarvis frets & Austin clamours, scolds & writes in the Chronical abuse upon the Government and its Friends: yet in Boston all know who & what he is, and tis very little regarded. it appears to be the General wish that the Embargo may be continued. if you should stay into June & be in a situation to do it I should like whilst flower is low to have a couple Barrels of more flower, that Brisler Sent me is very fine—
          I received a Book and letter for you to day the Book is dedicated to you & is the History of the County of worcester by Revd peter Whitney of Northborough the Letter is short and handsome the dedication, may rather be calld an inscription, after the Name and tittles of office, is added, “this History intended to promote the knowledge of a part of his Native commonwealth is inscribed with all respect By his most obedient Humble Servant &c”
          I have been much gratified in reading it. as you return home I wish you would get one of Thomas’s Bibles. he has printed three Editions and is prepareing to print two others—
          the weather is cooler to day, a small shower yesterday in Boston &

Cambridge of which we got not a drop, has however coold the air. God Grant it may be our turn soon, or Man & Beast will suffer Hay is very generally expended, and the drought raises the price prodigiously—
          I am my dearest Friend with the fond hope of giving you more than the Fraternal embrace, even that of an affectionate wife ever / yours

            A Adams—


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 26 May 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dearest Friend
            Philadelphia May 26. 1794

          I shall inclose with this, some Letters between Randolph and Hammond which will shew you how quarelsome they are. Poor Fellows! They both desire Peace, but think themselves obliged to wrangle for their Countries.
          It is fashionable to charge Wars upon Kings: but I think Le Peuple souvereign is as inflamable, and as proud and at the Same time less systematick, uniform & united: so that it is not so easy for them to avoid Wars. We have laboured very hard to preserve our Tranquility: but the Peuple souvereign is continually committing some Intemperance or Indiscretion or other tending to defeat all our Precautions. if We are involved in a War, my head heart and hands shall be guiltless of the Crime of provoking it. But it will be my Duty to Submit to the Legal Voice & Decree of my Country.
          We have fine Rains here, for three days past, and I hope you enjoy a similar Blessing

          I shall take Leave on saturday 31. of May: but cannot hope to get home before the 10 or 12th of June. The Journey lies before me, like a Mountain— I am too old and too feeble for these long Journeys, dry sessions and uncomfortable Scænes— I am at an Age when I ought to be at home with my Family.
          I Sent 600 dollars to John last Week, which is our whole Allowance till september.
          I wish you an agreable Election. Who will be Lieutenant Governor Gill or Gerry?
          I wrote to Dr Willard, sometime ago a Resignation of the Chair of the Academy of Arts and sciences.— It would be a farce for me to hold it any longer.
          My Duty to my Mother— Tell my Brother that I Suppose he was for War to make himself popular: but I am very sorry to find that warlike sentiments are popular in Quincy. I am glad he is chosen however and hope he will get our Town back to the County of Suffolk.
          Adieu— My dearest Friend Adieu

            J. A.


Title: John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 26 May 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

            My dear son
            Philadelphia May 26. 1794

          Since, I wrote you this morning, at the request of Mr Randolph a thousand things occur to me to say to you, but as I have not time at present I shall write you from day to day.
          You will have a Collection to make of the Journals of Congress and the Laws of the Union; and all the Reports of our Ministers of State to take with you.
          You must remember all the Relations of the U. S. with all foreign Nations.
          In holland you must be very cautious between Patriots and Stathouderiens.
          In your Dispatches you must be very cautious and delicate in casting Reflections upon Nations, souvereigns, and even Courts and Parties. Write nothing which can give personal, party or national offence: unless the public good as well as the Truth, absolutely demand it of you.— You will have Loans & Money Matters to attend to. Study therefore, the Calculations necessary.
          You must make yourself Master of all our disputes with England Spain, France. &c
          You must Study the Lines & Boundaries of the United States.— You will have to watch the English Ambassador & all the Anglomanes. But I have not time.
          Adieu

            J. A.


Title: John Quincy Adams to John Adams, 26 May 1794
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

            Dear Sir
            Boston May 26th: 1794.

          Mr: Dorr obtained a passage in the vessel with Mr: Jay, and Mr: Jones, had an opportunity to go from Newport, so that they had no occasion to make the application to Congress, in behalf of which I requested your favour.
          I drew another petition some time since, for the manufacturers of snuff and tobacco in this Town, making representations against the tax proposed upon those articles. I know not whether you have seen this petition, or in what light it appeared if you did. In the house of Representatives I believe it was not read, and the tax I understand has pass’d. I was somewhat puzzled for reasons to suggest against it.
          The Session of Congress, I presume is approaching to a close; The prospects of immediate War appear to blow over. Whether we shall be able to make any terms of accommodation with G. Britain, and obtain proper satisfaction for her insolence and violence is still very questionable, but it is of infinite importance that we should preserve Peace, until war shall become a duty.
          It is therefore fortunate for the Country, that the passionate measures which have been proposed, were all defeated. That for the suspension of intercourse with G. Britain was one of the most important of them. Your decision of that question probably gives the tone to our affairs for one season further. The fate of this Country depended upon that vote.— I expected it would have renewed the abusive system which was for some time so rancorously pursued, but which for some time past has drooped away. But very little has been said upon the subject, and I have not seen a single speculation in the prints upon it.
          The cessation of the embargo is offensive to our Jacobins, who are reduced to the argument, that either the Congress were precipitate in laying it on, or imprudent in taking it off. I have silenced some of them, by avowing the former as my opinion.
          You have seen the operation of democratic clubs, in this Town, by the dismission of Mr: Jones and the election of Mr: Morton as a

representative. Morton has of late been a violent sans-culotte and faction covers at least as great a multitude of sins as Charity.
          The opposite party have not so much industry, and have not the advantage of an organized system. Otis had about 200 votes but did not obtain his election. Jarvis was formerly his warm political friend, and probably viewed him as a disciple of his own; but finding him untractable, and rather falling into the other scale, he has forsaken him, and of course carried off a powerful interest. Jarvis’s electioneering influence in this Town, is very great.
          I think I have every day less ambition than the former, to pursue a political career. In my profession I trudge along, without eminence, and without total idleness. I see very few things in this life beyond the wants of nature, that I desire: and whether it be philosophy or insensibility, I find myself contented with my state as it is.
          I hope to see you in the course of a few days, and remain in the meantime affectionately your Son

            J.Q. Adams.


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 27 May 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dearest Friend
            Philadelphia May 27. 1794

          It is proper that I should apprize you, that the President has it in contemplation to Send your son to Holland, that you may recollect yourself and prepare for the Event. I make this Communication to you, in Confidence, at the desire of the President communicated to me Yesterday by the Secretary of State. You must keep it an entire Secret, untill it shall be announced to the Public in the Journal of the Senate. But our son must hold himself in readiness to come to Philadelphia to converse with the President, secretary of State Secretary of the Treasury &c and receive his Commissions and Instructions, without Loss of time. He will go to Providence, in the Stage and thence to New York by Water and thence to Philadelphia in the Stage.— He will not sett out however untill he is in form’d of his Appointment.— Perhaps the Senate may negative him, and then his Journey will be unnecessary.
          I shall go in the Stage on saturday to New York, and be at home I hope by the 12 of June
          Adieu

            J. A.


Title: John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 29 May 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

            My Dear son
            Philadelphia May 29. 1794

          Yesterday the Senate advised the Appointment of Mr short to Madrid, but there has as yet been no nomination to the Vacancy at the Hague. The Person however is determined on, and the Nomination will probably be made as soon as I am gone homewards— I have but one night and an half more to stay here.
          This Nomination, which is the Result of the Presidents own Observations and Reflections, is as politick, as it is unexpected. It will

be a Proof that Sound Principles in Morals and Government, are cherished by the Executive of the United States and that Study, Science and Literature are recommendations which will not be overlook’d. It will or at least it ought to have in England and Holland more Effect, than any Thing that has been done, except perhaps the Appointment of Mr Jay. It is a Pledge given by the American Cabinet, that they are not Ennemies to a rational form of Government; and that they are not hurried away by a wild Enthusiasm for every unmeaning Cry of Liberty, Republicanism and Equality.— It will be a Serious Trust for the Man appointed. It ought to make a deep Impression on his Mind. Such Trusts are Sacred Things. The Law of Nations, and Diplomatique Researches, should engage his early Attention as well as the Dutch Language: but especially every Thing relative to the Interests of the U. S.— a few Years Spent in the present Grade, will recommend him to Advancement to higher stages and larger Spheres.
          The Interests Views and Motions of the Belligerent Powers, will engage his constant Attention and employ all his sagacity.
          He must come here and read before he goes all Mr shorts & Mr Dumas Letters— He must consult with The President Mr Randolph and Mr Hamilton.
          He must attend a little to his Dress and Person. No Man alive is more Attentive to these Things than the President. neat at least and handsome.
          When he gets to Europe he cannot keep a Coach, nor keep House— Dress is an abominably expensive Article—but he will not run into it I hope.— He may dress and ought to dress as handsomely as any of them: but he ought not to change so often. Economy must be his study and his Practice.
          In his Dispatches he ought to be very cautious, and he ought to employ all the Elegance and Art of his Pen.
          I shall drop hints broken hints from time to time for I have many Things to say.
          Dumas Luzac, Willinks, Vanstaphorst, Crommeline’s &c will be your first Acquaintances: but you must be upon your guard even with them
          Adieu

            J. A


Title: John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 30 May 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

            My Dear son
            Philadelphia May 30. 1794

          The Senate have this Day unanimously advised and consented to the Appointment of John Quincy Adams to the Hague.

          If this Event should affect your Sensibility as much as it does mine, it will made a deep Impression upon Your Mind, both of the Importance of the Mission and of your obligation to Gratitude Fidelity and Exertion in the Discharge of the Duties of it.
          At two O Clock tomorrow Morning I Sett off homewards.
          Adieu

            John Adams


Title: Daniel Denison Rogers to Abigail Adams, 2 June 1794
From: Rogers, Daniel Denison
To: Adams, Abigail

            Dear Madam
            Boston 2d: June 1794—

          After a Number of mortifying Disapointments I am happy at last in having it in my powers to present you a Miniature Copy from an Original Portrait of Mrs: R. done by Mr: Copley:—it appears to be well executed and I think a very good likeness—
          Nothing could have been more flattering to me than the Request you were pleas’d to make of a likeness of my Angel-Wife nor anything more mortifying than the Delays which have attended the obtaining it— If our departed friends are conscious of what passes here, and are susceptibe of additions to their Happiness, I am sure that a wish on your part to keep alive a kind Remembrance of a warm, tho’ transient friendship here will be an Increase of Happiness to our departed friend: whilst the Hope of a Renewall of it must be a fresh Source of Bliss— Mrs: Rogers’s Letters to me when absent, were replete with Acknowledgments of the Obligations she was under to you for the kindest Attentions and politeness: and she ever took delight in expressing her Love, Esteem and Respect—
          It is pleasing to reflect that such friendships will be renewed hereafter: indeed it would be horrid, for a Moment to think that Death is eternally to seperate those who were particularly dear to each other on Earth:— Mrs: R. was a Woman of uncommon Virtue and unaffected Piety—the more I reflect on her Conduct in Life, the more estimable she rises:— in prosperity or Adversity: Health or Sickness, she was the never ceasing Adorer and Lover of her Creator and Redeemer—a pleasant, agreeable, amiable Companion— a warm faithfull Friend— she neglected no Opportunity for doing good, but study’d to be usefull and acted well her part in Life:—

          The Endeavour to embalm the Memory of a Woman of so many amiable, estimable Virtues, and pleasant agreeable Qualities in the Minds of her friends, as well as in my own; will, I hope, be delightfull to me thro’ Life, and may apologize for my being thus particular—
          I beg you, Dear Madam, to present my Respects to the Vice-President on his return, and to believe me, with the greatest Esteem and Respect, Dear Madam, / Your much oblig’d & most obedt. Hum1. Servt.

            Daniel Denison Rogers


Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to John Adams, 3 June 1794
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Adams, John

            Dear sir
            Philadelphia June 3d: 1794

          I arrived in Philada: on Sunday Morng & was not a little disappointed at finding you had taken your departure only the Day before; I hastened my return from Reading, that I might reach Philada: before you left it. My Journey has been as pleasant as I co[uld] wish, & I have returned not a little prejudiced in favor of the State of Pennsylvania. If my conject[ures] are well founded, it will be nearly the richest State in the U[ni]on in a very few years. The River Susquehannah is the widest & most shallow, I have ever seen; the Soil within 8 or 10 miles on each side of it, is a rich Black mould & the growth of the Trees, Grain & Grass appears peculiar to itself. I received great civility from the Gentlemen of the Bar in the different Counties; but I saw no place during the Circuit, which held forth sufficient inducements for me to quit Philadelphia— As yet I have not found an Office to my mind; my Present Landlord has concluded to stay in the same house, I must therefore find a Room in the Neighborhood for my purpose, or remove my Lodgings somewhere else—
          Congress did not rise to Day as was expected— Some new Communications from the President relative to indian affairs, it is thought will detain them a day or two longer—
          With Respect / I am &ca

            TB Adams


Title: Elizabeth Smith Shaw to John Quincy Adams, 9 June 1794
From: Shaw, Elizabeth Smith
To: Adams, John Quincy

            Haverhill June 9th. 1794

          My Dear Nephew could not suppose a Friend to merit, could read a Paragraph in last Saturdays Paper, without feeling themselves gratified, by finding that the opinion of Persons of the highest eminence entirly coincided with their own—
          He who has obstinately, & undeviateingly persevered in a course of Study, who “can bring back at Eve, the manners of the Morn immaculate,” & steadily pursue the Path of Virtue, though Pleasures allure, & Temptations await him, is the only fit Person for the Publick to confide in. They shall bear the Palm, if they faint not And though “Confidence be a Plant of slow growth in the publick Mind,” yet when once rooted, it generally yeilds its Possessor a rich, & valuable Product.— I presume the desire of deserving the Esteem, & obtaining the Plaudit of your Country, will not lesson your anxiety, & Concern for her Interest— The late appointment of the Presidents will be an additional weight; & the Atlas of publick Care, which has for a long time oppressed you, will now (I fear) fix an indeliable [tr]ace upon your Brow—
          William Cranch of whom you ever speak with so much Love, & affection, has not yet become a Votary at the Shrine of Hymen— He pines—he languishes for the sweets of domestick Life; & as heaven has formed him with a Mind peculiarly suited for that State, I am grieved that Fortune has not blessed him with sufficient Property— As she is a fickle Dame I hope she will soon shew herself more kind—for if rectitude of Heart, & sweetness of Temper can entitle any One to her Favours W. C. has an undoubted Claim—
          And now permit me, my worthy Nephew to congratulate you upon the cold apathy which you say has, (or you fancy has) taken

possession of your Breast— If real, it must be extremely advantageous to your Peace, & Tranquility—
          When I have beheld you nobly struggling with those tender Passions, which few at your age, would have thought of contending with—& seen you sacrificing your own Inclinations, to Situation, & filial Duty, my Heart has honoured, & paid a silent Tribute to your merit— I knew that your Health suffered—& indeed I feared you would have fallen a Victim to the strength of your Reason, & your frozen Judgment
          Perhaps, no one, knew better than myself, the strong emotions which tore, & agitated your Mind— I could have sat by your side & counted out Tear, for Tear— I longed to lighten your Heart—& to have you pour out all your Grief, into my feeling—faithful Bosom—
          But you must pardon me, if I could not (feeling as my heart is) but smile at your fears, that the Tyrant Love, would never again take possession of your Breast, even though your Circumstances should permit you, to sollicit his recall— Believe me, my dear Nephew, if virtuous Friendship be the Basis, (& upon no other build) a Soul like yours, susceptive of every fine emotion, can never be in want of Objects to light the Torch, & place his affections upon— for there is no Principle in Phylosophy more just, than that a noble generous Heart, will gravitate towards O[ne] he finds in Unison with his own— And that there are Ladies possessed of those qualities of the Mind, & those Virtues of the Heart, which beggar the “wealth of Ormus, & of Ind”— every Year evinces, & introduces upon the Stage of Life, some new Candidate for the nuptial State—
          Amiable Minds are said to be the most susceptive of Love— Your Heart has felt his Power, & bowed full many a time at the Shrine of Beauty, & Excellence— Yet let me hope, that whenever you may wish to pay your Vows at the Altar of Hymen, you may find a Daughter who excelleth them all—in real worth, as in Beauty—Who is deserving of your highest Esteem, & tenderest Love—One, who (as the Poet says) “looks like Nature, in the Worlds first bloom”— And when judgment, & cool Reason gives a sanction to your Choice, then may you find all your Sacrifices—all your Anxieties—Your daily Labours—& midnight Toils amply rewarded in the Love, & affection of this happy fair One—
          “Happy they—the happiest of their kind, whom gentler Stars unite, in one fate, their Hearts—their fortunes, & their Beings blend”—

          Perhaps you may wonder that I should take up the Ideas in your Letter of May 23d. 1793, & notice them at so late a period— But be assured I have read it repeatedly, & felt myself soothed, & honoured by the confidence you are pleased to repose in me—though I might never have written, if the late appointment, had not have pressed it upon me as a Duty, owing to a Nephew I sincerely loved, & in whose Prosperity, & Happiness I felt myself highly interested—
          If the wishes of your Friends, & the tender Affection of an Aunt, can be any inducement to you, to make us a Visit in Haverhill, you certainly will not leave America without seeing

            Elizabeth Shaw—

            Please to excuse the writing as my Eyes are poor, & Abby Adams is round me all the time chattering like a Mag-Pye—


Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to Abigail Adams, 14 June 1794
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dear Mother
            Philadelphia 14th: June 1794.

          It is a fortnight to day since my return to the City, & I have been waiting the arrival of every Post in hopes of hearing from my friends— I missed seeing my Father by one day only, & I have not yet heared of his safe arrival at home. It is probable you are busy in preparing my Brother for his departure— I hope however he will be called to Philadelphia before that takes place— I know not whether it be necessary that he should come here, but at least I wish it. It seems as if our family were destined to distant separations; it is within three Days of Six Years since your return from Europe, which I believe is the longest period for many years that the whole of our Family have sojourned in the same Land. Like the Patriarchal

families of old, we have wandered thro’ strange & foreign regions, not in search of “the Promised Land,” but for promised honors & expected benefit. I too have travelled. In the course of five weeks I visited the rich & fertile Counties of Pennsylvania. Wealth, Health, & consequent contentment, were the Guests of every village— Vegetation of spontaneous growth every where charmed the Eye, while the product & reward of Laborious industry afforded a gratification as pleasing to the Spectator, as it is profitable to the owner. I passed a week in each County where the Court was held, & it would be difficult for me to decide, which claims the prefference in my opinion. West Chester, York Town, Lancaster, Carlisle & Reading, were the five I visited; I also passed thro’ Harrisburg on my return. This last is situated directly upon the Fertile Banks of the Susquehannah; in point of local situation it has the advantage over all the others; but within two or three years past, it has been subject to Ague’s & Intermittant’s; particularly last Fall— it lost more inhabitants in proportion to its numbers, than the City of Philada:; but for this circumstance the growth of this town would be as rapid as it has been hitherto; there are now 2 or 300 houses, & 8 years ago, there was but one & that was the Ferry house. The water, through out the Country I visited is said to partake the qualities of the Limestone, & I found it peculiarly serviceable to my health; The exercise of riding on Horseback so long a Journey was rather more severe than I have been accustomed to, but tho’ it took away some of my flesh, it contributed much to my health. If it were not for the expence of keeping a Horse in the City, I should be fond of retaining mine till Fall— I could not have been suited better for my purpose any where— The only objection is that it is a female, which among Beasts of burthen & service is not much of a recommendation. But I am in debt for my Bard between fifty & sixty Dollars, & for other things a few more, & I must endeavor to make so good a bargain of my Beast, as to pay my last quarter’s expences.—
          I have the promise of an Office in my neighborhood & hope to be in it shortly, I could have got one before at a distance from my lodgings, but the convenience of having it near me, induced my delay.— If I can make my Office support itself for the first year, it will be as much as I expect, tho by no means so much as I could desire—but we must all be humbled before we are exalted— I never was much in love with myself, & I feel less so [no]w than ever.
          With the warmest affection / yours &ca:

            Thomas B Adams

            P S, Be good enough to inform me if Newcomb’s money arrived safe—


Title: Abigail Adams to Martha Washington, 20 June 1794
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Washington, Martha

            my dear Madam
            [20 June 1794]

          I cannot omit so good an opportunity as the present by my son of paying my respects to you, and of acknowledging the honor done him by the unsolicited appointment conferd upon him by the President at a very early period of Life I devoted him to the publick, and in the most dangerous and hazardous time of the War consented that he should accompany his Father in his embassys abroad, considering it of the utmost importance that he should receive his early Education & Principals under his immediate Eye, and I have the satisfaction to say to you Madam, perhaps with the fond Partiality of a Parent, that I do not know in any one Instanc of his Life conduct either at home or abroad, he has given me any occasion of regreet, and I hope from his Prudence honour integrity & fidelity that he will never discredit the Character so honorably conferd upon him. painfull as the circumstance of a Seperation from him will be to me Madam I derive a satisfaction from the hope of his becomeing eminently usefull to his Country whether destined to publick, or to Private Life
          Be pleased to present my most affectionate Respects to the President and my Love to master Washington & Miss Custus from Madam Your obliged Friend / and Humble Servant

            A Adams


Title: John Quincy Adams to Abigail Adams, 8 July 1794
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dear Madam
            New York July 8. 1794.

          The stage in which I had engaged a passage for Philadelphia this morning, has gone away by mistake, and left me behind, which gives me leisure to write a line by my brother. He intends to pay you a visit this summer, and will be the bearer of this.
          I was detained three days in Newport for a wind, but otherwise have had a very comfortable passage from Boston hither— I find my health better than when I saw you, and hope that the heats of Philadelphia, will not prove injurious to it. I shall make as short a stay there as possible.
          I have met here with Messrs: Talleyrand and Beaumiez, who are about to proceed eastward, and will in the course of a fortnight or three weeks pay you a visit. I have likewise seen a Mr: Colomb, an aid to Mr De la Fayette; who went to Europe in 1779 with us on board the Sensible. “tempora mutantur et nos mutamur in illis.” Mr: Colomb and I sat and conversed very sociably together for half an hour before either of us discovered that we had been formerly acquainted, and fellow passengers.
          If you do not understand my Latin quotation, I must plead the example of the most respectable authority as a precedent to excuse my inserting it.
          Mrs Smith and the family are well, but her children were in the Country, and I was disappointed in not seeing them.— At three this afternoon I start for Philadelphia, from which place, I hope you will shortly hear from me.
          In all duty and affection, I remain your Son.

            John Q. Adams.


Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to John Adams, 14 July 1794
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Adams, John

            Philadelphia 14th: July [1794]

          Your kind Letter by my Brother was delivered a few days since; as the proposal it contains is of very considerable importance, I have taken time to consider it before I returned an answer. As you have been good enough to leave it in my option whether to adopt the plan, or not, I shall express my sentiments with the freedom which your indulgence seems to authorize. I am sensible that a young man, just commencing his career in the line of a Profession, should have no local attachments but such as are founded on the superior advantages, immediate or remote, which one spot may claim over another; Nor should favorable prepossessions be indulged, farther than they are subservient to his interest. My prospects in the Profession as yet, are not of that flattering nature, which would induce me to forego an offer of greater advantage in another place; but from mature deliberation on the idea of removal to the Office of my Brother in Boston, and consultation with him on the subject, I am induced to believe, that my continuance here will be most favorable to my interest. I have occupied an Office nearly opposite my Lodgings, for three weeks past; for which I am to pay at the rate of Seventeen Pounds pr Ann; I have the use of a Library belonging to a young man, who was my predecessor, and who gave up the Office for my accomodation, sooner than he otherwise would have done, and entrusted me with the management of several causes yet unsettled on his Dockett. These are the inducements which opperate on my mind for remaining in Philadelphia, and tho they are in some

measure circumstances of a casual nature, the least I can do is to think them fortunate. I have felt more satisfaction in the three weeks attendance on my Office, than for Six months past; & tho my consequence hitherto has depended on my own opinion, at least I have enjoyed some satisfaction in the anticipation of its further extension. In making this choice, I renounce the satisfaction which a nearer residence to my Parents would afford—but so long as the Office you hold requires your attendance at this place for some months in the year, I shall enjoy the pleasure & benefit of your company. Here I have already made a begining in the Profession—in Boston I am unknown— Here I have qualifyed myself in some degree for the Practice in this state—In Massachusetts I should have to learn the first rudiments— But droping the parralell I will close with observing, that at all times I shall pay obedience to the commands of my Parents, tho’ in a matter of option I may give my reasons without reserve for not closing with their proposals.
          With much affection / your Son

            Thomas B Adams.


Title: Martha Washington to Abigail Adams, 19 July 1794
From: Washington, Martha
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dear Madam—
            Philadelphia July the 19th 1794

          Mr Adams (your son) presented me with your obliging favor of June the 20th. and I pray you to accept my thanks for your kind remembrance of me; and the assurance of the pleasure I felt at hearing that you had quite recovered your health again.—
          That parental feelings should be put to the test at a seperation (perhaps for years) from a dutyful, and meritorious son, is not to be wondered at; but as there is no trial bereft of consolation, so in the one before you, you have a flattering vẽw of his future welfare.— The prudence, good sence and high estamation in which he stands, leaves you nothing to apprehend on his account from the want of these traits in his character;—whilst abilities, exerted in the road in which he is now placed, affords him the fairest prospect rendering

eminent services to his country; and of being, in time, among the fore most in her councils.— This I know is the opinion of my Husband, from whom I have imbided the idea.—
          he begs me to present his best wishes and respectful compliments to you, and joins me in sincear regards for the Vice-President
          With very great esteem I remain / Dear Madam your / affectionat Servant

            M Washington

            Nelly and Washington write with me in good wishes for miss Smith


Title: Abigail Adams to John Quincy Adams, 20 July 1794
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John Quincy

            my dear Son
            Quincy july. 20th 1794

          I received your Letter this morning of the 12th and one from N york by your Brother Charles, who got here the day before commencment; in good Health & spirits. your Father and Brother, myself and Louissa all went together to commencment. the weather was uncomfortably Hot. it was otherways an agreeable day. I hope you will not experience any unusual inconvenience from the Heat of Philadelphia. your stay there will not be longer than you are obliged to. I cannot think of your going abroad without returning here. Your Father will write to you respecting your Proposal for Thomas— you knew my mind upon the Subject before you left me. provided you had an allowence for a secretary, I have always wisht that your Brother might have an opportunity of going abroad for a short period of Time, and as you are inclined to have him accompany you, I think it is not probably that a better opportunity will ever present itself, for him, as you may be mutually benificial to each other, and it will not be so Solitary to you. I will not take my own personal feelings into the question. What ever may be for the benifit of my children I acquiese in.
          Tilly went as I wrote you to get innoculated but as no other person presented they thought it would not do to take one person only. he is however determind to go with you & risk it.
          Let me hear from you by every the post I think you will be like to get a passage from hence as readily as from N york or Philadelphia. I have a request to make you and Your Brother. if there is a minature painter in the city Set for your Liknesses large enough for

Braslets & if You get them give them to mr Anthony to set with a lock of each of your Hairs to be put on the back together with Your Names in a cypher and whatever the expence may be I will repay you here. the Likeness may be taken and the pictures left with mr Anthony as it will take him some time to set them. you must Spair Time for it if possible—
          Yours affectionatly

            A Adams


Title: John Quincy Adams to John Adams, 27 July 1794
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

            Dear Sir.
            Philadelphia July 27th: 1794.

          I expected to have been on my way to Boston before this; but Mr: Hamilton is gone into the Country, and I cannot be supplied with my instructions untill he returns. He has been expected every hour these four days, and it is very possible that four days hence he may still be hourly expected. In the mean while I am here lolling away my time, and sweating away my person, with nothing to do, and waiting with as much patience, as I have at command.— I am unable to say therefore when I shall leave this place, but hope it will be by the middle of this week.
          But I presume that my instructions after all will contain nothing very particular. The Secretary of State says that the mission is almost exclusively reduced to a pecuniary negotiation.
          To have nothing further to do, but to borrow money, and superintend the loans already existing, is an employment, to which for a certain Time I have no reluctance in submitting. It is a situation in which my services may be of some small utility to my Country, and which may afford me a valuable opportunity to improve my own information and talents: but I cannot think of it with any satisfaction as a permanency whether I consider it with reference to the public or to myself.
          As it respects the public it is a situation of small trust and confidence under the present circumstances. The credit of the United States stands upon such ground, that very little or none of their future success or failure will depend upon the personal character or

abilities of their Representative there. And I presume the Executive Government of this country will not think it necessary to keep a minister constantly resident at the Hague, for the sole purpose of occasionally borrowing a sum of money for the public at Amsterdam.
          Should that however be the policy of the Government, and should it be at my option to continue from year to year in this state of nominal respectability and real insignificance, it is proper for me to determine how long I shall bear it: and this is a subject of much reflection and much anxiety to my mind.
          I have abandoned the profession upon which I have hitherto depended, for a future subsistence; Abandoned it, at a time, when the tedious noviciate of hope and fear was nearly past; when flattering and brightening prospects were every day opening more and more extensively to my view; when I was at least upon a footing of equal advantage with any one of my own standing in the profession, and advancing if not rapidly at least with regular progression towards eminence: when the reward of long and painful expectation began to unfold itself to my sight, and give me a rational hope of future possession. At this critical moment, when all the materials for a valuable reputation at the bar were collected, and had just began to operate favourably for me, I have stopped short in my career; forsaken the path which would have led me to independence and security in private life; and stepped into a totally different direction.
          To that profession I can never return without losing many of the advantages, which rendered its practice tolerable. The reputation which hitherto I had acquired was still very much confined and limited; it was founded upon four years of constant application and attention to business. My absence will not only stop its growth, but will carry me back to that obscurity in which I began. The study of the common and Statute Law has nothing attractive to secure any attention to it unless some inducement of immediate interest serves as a stimulus. My business, and my studies in the character which I am now to assume, have very little affinity with those of a practicing lawyer; I shall probably have but little leisure, and shall not be disposed to devote it to Kings-Bench or Chancery Reports, to Littleton’s Tenures or Coke’s Commentaries. Yet these studies must essentially be uninterrrupted to preserve the learning of a lawyer, and two or three years intermission will have the double effect of disgusting me with them, and of disqualifying me from the practice of the Law, without a redoubled application to them.

          In proportion as my own professional advancement will be checked that of my contemporaries and particularly of those who started from the goal nearly at the same time with myself, will be promoted. They will continue to make their way, and will in a few years have reached the summit of reputation and of business.— My juniors who are now just opening their Offices, or are yet students will then have reached the station from which I have departed, and thus after having been elevated to a public station much beyond my own wishes and expectations, and invested with a character more conspicuous than those of my fellow citizens of equal years and standing in the world, in returning to the bar I shall descend as much below the level of my ambition and pretensions as I have been by my present appointment raised above it.
          The profession therefore can be considered by me in no other light, than that of a last resort, in case all other resources should fail; and yet I have no reason to suppose, that any thing more eligible will occur to me in case I should at the end of two or three years be destitute of public employment.
          Unpleasant however as this perspective is, I think it infinitely preferable to that of remaining in the public service, to perform duties which may be executed equally well by any other man; and with the consciousness of holding a public office without confidence, without utility, and for no other purpose than barely to give me a subsistence
          The idea of being many years absent from my Country; from my family my connections and friends is so painful that I feel a necessity for fixing upon some period to which I may look forward with an expectation of being restored to them. The distance between the two Countries is so great and the communication of course so small, that it is hardly possible for an American to be long in Europe, without losing in some measure his national character. The habits, the manners and affections insensibly undergo an alteration; the common changes to which Society is incident remove many of the friends and connections which he left behind him, and no others are substituted in their stead; his own propensities are so liable to follow the course of the stream into which he has been launched, that he gradually takes an European disposition, becomes a stranger to his own Country, and when at length he returns finds himself an alien in the midst of his own fellow-citizens.
          The attachment which I feel for my native Land, is not merely a sentiment of the Heart; it is also a principle dictated by my Reason.

Independant of my feelings and Inclinations, I hold it to be a duty of the most rigid obligation, to make the place of my birth, the centre of all my wishes and the chief object of all my pursuits. Wherever my lot may be cast; I hope I shall always turn towards it with as much frequency of devotion and as constant veneration as that with which the most faithful disciple of Mahomet presents his face towards the tomb of his prophet. I cannot therefore look forward with indifference to any situation that shall have a tendency to loosen the ties which connect me with my Country. I cannot anticipate without concern a length of absence, which may give my inclinations a bias different from that of my duty.
          For these Reasons I am convinced of the propriety there is in marking out for my own determination the limits of Time for the duration of my present mission. It is very possible that I may have no occasion for any such limitation, and that my commission will be superseded by the will of the President, as soon or sooner than I shall desire; but this is an Event which is wholly out of my controul and which therefore cannot enter into my calculations.
          If after three years residence at the Hague, I should see no particular object requiring my further continuance there; if the business of an American Minister there should continue to be the mere agency of a broker, and my office be of no benefit but to me, I shall feel myself under an obligation to return home; and resume my profession or any other employment in private life, that shall afford me an honourable support.
          I have written very freely to you Sir upon this subject, because I wish to have the sanction of your opinion and your advice. The principle which I have adopted has been so consonant to your own practice, and has been in my mind so clearly the result of your instructions, that I think it cannot but meet with your approbation.— Perhaps the Time upon which I have fixed may not preserve so accurately the medium as I should wish, and if you are of that opinion, I must solicit you for the result of your reflections, in writing if it be not too inconvenient.— Your kindness will excuse the unceasing egotism of this Letter, which could admit of no apology, were it not directed to the indulgence of a parent for the purpose of obtaining the guidance of paternal wisdom.
          Since I wrote you last my brother has received your Letter, and I have the answer to mine consenting to his going with me. You have been kind enough to promise him the continuance of your assistance to him, to enable him to bear the expences of his foreign tour;

but since I made the application to you, I find that an allowance is made for a private Secretary, and my brother is willing to accompany me in that capacity; so that he will have it in his power to unite business and amusement, and may have the advantage of travelling without incumbrance to you.
          In ten or twelve days I hope I shall see you at Quincy, and in the mean time remain affectionately your Son.

            J. Q. Adams.


Title: John Quincy Adams to Abigail Adams, 29 July 1794
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dear Madam
            Philadelphia July 29th: 1794

          I am still waiting for the arrival of Coll: Hamilton whom it is necessary for me to see before my departure, and who has been detained several days in the Country by the sickness of a child.
          I received your favour of the 20th: instt: and my brother is now prepared to go with me.— We should be very happy to comply with your request respecting the bracelets, but we shall certainly not have time for the miniatures to be taken here; and indeed our miniature painters are so indifferent workmen, that it will be best to have them done in Europe.
          A very serious opposition to the collection of the Excise has taken place in one of the western Counties of this State. The Collector’s House has been burnt down, and an action between the insurgents and a company of soldiers terminated in the loss of several lives.—
          I enclose with this a pamphlet which has just made its appearance; written as I judge from the face of it by some Englishman, but I know not any Briton in this Country equal to it.
          There is much party spirit, much virulence, and some

controversial disingenuity conspicuous in this publication. It is certainly not written with a view to popular approbation. But I believe the Doctor and his friends would not find it an easy task, really to answer it—
          A french fleet of forty sail which went from hence about a fortnight since has been picked up by an English squadron on the Coast; and a very small portion of them have escaped.— There is some suspicion I believe of treachery among the french, or by the American Pilots who were with them; but I know not exactly what it is.
          On the other hand the combined armies in Europe, have no reason to boast of their success. Their situation is even extremely critical. And the violent measures pursued by the ministry in England, indicate a consciousness of internal weakness more than any thing that has hitherto occurred.
          No account of Mr: Jay’s arrival as yet.
          The Secretary of State and Hammond continue bickering and recriminating.— If the latter is not absolutely instructed to pick a quarrel with us at all hazards his conduct is very indiscreet. He is now at New-York.
          A pompous Letter from London giving an Account of the present internal state of France has been published in most of the newspapers here, and has probably found its way into those of Boston. It was written by Jackson, the ci-devant Secretary to the President. It contains information really important, but I know not how far it is to be depended upon. There is a circumstance which proves that the author was vain of his Letter at least.— He addressed and sent it to two different persons: Mr: Pinckney in London, and Mr: Willing in this City.— Mr: Pinckney sent a copy of it to the Secretary of State; so that when Mr: Willing received that sent to him, and was anxious to communicate his very interesting intelligence, he was greatly surprized to find that the President was already in possession of it.
          Instead of Salvator-Rosa, methinks this incident would supply a tolerable subject for the pencil of Hogarth.
          I write very freely: indeed I find it difficult to realize that henceforth my Correspondence must be armed at all points, or confidential. It will take me some time to ease myself in diplomatic buckram completely. I have no occasion to request of you that my future letters, may be reserved from all but my father’s inspection.— You will easily distinguish those parts of them which are intended only for yourself and him.
          I am in all duty and affection your Son

            J. Q. Adams.


Title: John Quincy Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 13 August 1794
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Thomas Boylston

            My dear Brother
            New York, August 13. 1794.

          Coll: Hamilton arrived in Philadelphia, the night before you left it, but from the pressure of business more immediately urgent, was not prepared for me untill last Friday. On that Evening I left the City, in company with Genl Knox, and arrived here (quite overcome

with fatigue, and somewhat unwell of the complaint which you brought from the same place) on Saturday at about 6 in the Evening.
          The Secretary of State supposed he should have some farther commands for me, and requested me to stop here until Friday next, accordingly, I have hitherto been here recruiting my health & strength.
          So long as my departure is delayed by the orders of my Superiors, I must submit cheerfully, but I am very anxious that no additional delay of my own should postpone the voyage, beyond the line of absolute necessity. I hope therefore that you will have some Vessel ready to Sail, within a few days after I reach Boston. The best season for the Voyage, we must be content to lose. I shall sail for Providence on friday or Saturday, I hope; and in the mean time am affectionately your Brother


Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to William Cranch, 15 August 1794
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Cranch, William

            Dear William
            Quincy Augst: 15— 1794.

          Your last favor was handed me by Mr C Hall on the road between Philadelphia and New York— It gave me pleasure to receive it, particularly as it was delivered by a Gentleman for whom I have the highest esteem, and who from the satisfaction that was visible in his countenance, discovered the pleasure he must have received in his visit, and the still greater gratification of your acquaintance. I have so far proceeded in my arrangements for leaving the Country as to have arrived safely in this place, and am now waiting with no small degree of impatience for an opportunity to Embark— You know the hurry, bustle &c of such a period as the present, and therefore will pardon me in telling you, that present appearances afford me no prospect of paying a visit to my favorite spot in which you have the happiness to reside. It may however be possible, but if not, the consequence must be that you come and pass a few days with me. I shall be happy if it is in my power to save you the trouble, but if your business will admit your absence for a few days, it will

probably be more convenient, than for me to visit you. My Brother whom I left in Philadelphia, has not yet arrived in Boston, tho’ I expect him by every Post; when he returns I shall be able to inform you whether a week of pleasure can be afforded me or not. As there are no vessels up for London at present, the period of our Embarkation is yet uncertain— We may be detained four or five weeks; and if in that time all matters can be brought to bear, I will run away to you with as much eagerness as ever a hungry boy ran to his breakfast.
          Your Family were all well yesterday; Present me affectionately to all your friends at Haverhill and receive for your individual self the best wishes of

            Thomas B Adams


Title: Elizabeth Smith Shaw to Abigail Adams, 10 September 1794
From: Shaw, Elizabeth Smith
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dear Sister—
            Haverhill September 10th 1794

          My Cousins most agreeably supprized me by a Visit— I had been informed that your Sons were to sail the week before— I thought they were upon the wide Ocean, & many a fervent wish for their saefty T had breathed forth— I am sorry I could not have the pleasure of seeing my other Nephews, especially your eldest Son, as perhaps, it will be many a year before I see him, if ever— It is an unstable world we live in— And we Sisters seem to be called, to be separated from some of our dearest Connections all at once— For I must think, I shall feel the Separation from Mr Cranch, even more than his own Father, & Mother— For I had considered him as fixed among us—as a dear Relative, & worthy Friend, as a Protector to me, & my Children, one whom I hoped to have lived, & died with—but Providence seems to be pointing out to him another Place—a Sphere of more extensive usefulness, I trust, & ought I to murmur, or to repine.— He that cuts of one branch, can cause another to shoot forth—& if it is best, it will be done— Reliance upon the wisdom, & goodness of the divine Being, has the most salutary effect— We derive from it, our sweetest Comforts, & it gives peace, & serenity to the mind when nothing else can—
          Cousin Betsy is much better, riding she finds of service, I hope

she will be able to make you a visit at Quincy when my Cousin Lucy returns—
          The bag the oatmeal was in, I should be obliged to you, if you would send it— It is a nice one for my William to pack his Cloaths in— I mean to do his washing— more cloaths is necessary, but I can do it, better than hire— what you was so kind as to give me I found of great service, they were much better than we could afford to buy— turning the hind part before, & making them over again, made quite useful small cloaths—
          Adieu my dear Sister—may you, & Yours be protected from every kind of danger, & evil—

            Elizabeth Shaw—


Title: Charles Adams to Abigail Adams, 22 September 1794
From: Adams, Charles
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dear Mother
            New York Sepr 22 1794

          My books arrived in good order and well conditioned the day after I last wrote to my father. By some mistake the 28th volume of The Dictionaire Diplomatique was left behind. Though I have not seen an account of the departure of my brothers I suppose from my father’s last letter that e’er this they must have sailed One half of your children are called away from you and though seas do not divide you from the others yet necessity obliges them to be absent but wherever they are I trust they never can forget the maternal tenderness you have ever exercised toward them. You have indeed been a mother to us and such a one as we never can too highly value. My sister wishes you to pass the winter with her but I fear you will not again venture from home. Mrs Fitch has been very civil to me they appear to have a great affection for our family She says one of the principal inducements that Mr Fitch has for coming to settle in America is the friendship he has for my father The opinions of people here are very various respecting the success of Mr Jay’s mission. We have accounts that Genl Wayne has taken several British subjects in a late engagement with the Indians and hung them upon the trees I do not vouch for the truth of this but the conduct of the officers of the British Government towards this Country bear not a very favorable aspect. The antifederalists here predict that the whole power of the United S[tates] cannot quell the insurrection in Penn[sylvania] that open hostilities must be commenced there is no doubt for the indignities offered to the Commissioners cannot be overlooked The volunteers from N Jersey and Pennsylvania are very numerous In the former State they would not agree to the regular draft but insisted upon drafting for those who should not go. There has been as yet no requisition from this State if there should be one I shall take my musket and march in the ranks as I have been drafted as one of the minute men: this will not be altogether so convenient for me.
          On the fourteenth of October I shall set out for Albany The earnest solicitations of the Baron have drawn a promise from me to spend a few days with him at his solitude after I have passed my Counsellors examination. I have always lamented that you have so little acquaintance with this excellent man I never have know a

more noble character and his affection for me calls forth every sentiment of gratitude which can exist in my breast. I hope you will write to me frequently I feel as if every day some friend and I have not many was taken from me to those who remain I am more strongly attached but the affection to my Mother can never suffer any alteration I shall ever remain as heretofore I ever have been yours with the sentiments of the purest filial tenderness

            Chas Adams


Title: Samuel A. Otis to John Adams, 16 October 1794
From: Otis, Samuel Allyne
To: Adams, John

            Dear Sir
            Philada. 16th Octr 1794

          Agreeable to intimation I have been enquiring for accommodations for you but to no purpose unless you should like rooms in Francis’s house. It is not easy to know exactly what will be agreeable to our friends tho we may sometimes please ourselves— I have gone so far however as to engage with Francis on condition you like & wish for your immediate answer—
          Francis’s house is in 4th Street near Indian Queen.
          He will let you have a genteel room, front, one pair of stairs for a drawing room, & A convenient & contiguous lodging room on the same floor— Breakfast & Coffee in the afternoon in your own

appartments, dine with the Gentlemen lodgers, to number of nine or ten, to be all members of Congress— To accommodate Mr Brasler with a lodging room & board—you to find your own liquor fire and Candles and pay twenty dollars the week for self & Sert accommodated as above to wit: Two rooms for yourself & a lodging room for Mr Brasler. You will please to observe, If you ask company to dine transiently you pay consideration pr Man. If you make a dinner specially, for which by the way there will be no occasion, you agree specially— The price & large company will be objectionable, but I suppose the members of Congress for a single room must pay 10 dollars a week & 4 or 5 for servant— You have two rooms & Valet de Chambre a lodging room. As to the Company they will be all members of Congress. If you go to private logings you will perhaps be obliged to sit down with some tradesman & wife or both— And Iz——d who is breaking up house keeping & sending off the baggage says he’ll be d——ned if he sits down to dine with a hairdresser— However I have endeavored to state matters to your view minutely and to add, tis not black Sam but the other Francis, who with wife appear to be decent kind of people, that I am in negotiation.
          The fever and ague has prevaled at New York New Jersies & thro this State and City. Intermittents also prevail, And there have been a few cases of yallow fever. People however are now pretty easy. No cases have happened of yallow fever above 2d Street, and fever & ague abates—
          Fitzsimmons will be run hard if he dont lose his election. Tis hoped however that the army will bring him in. The Legislature having provided for their voting by special statute.— The accounts are favorable from the west— The President being expected prior to the Session— Mrs Otis & Miss S join me in best remembrances to yourself & the ladies—
          I am / Sir / Respectfully / yours

            Sam A Otis


Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to John Adams, 19 October 1794
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Adams, John

            My dear Sir
            London Octr: 19th: 1794.

          I embrace the earliest opportunity to acquaint you of our safe & happy arrival at this place after a Passage of 28 days. I scarcely conceive it possible at any Season of the year to have a more delightful Voyage; we got soundings on the 21st: day after our departure, and arrived at Deal on the 28th: in London the 29th: exactly four weeks from the day of Embarkment at Boston. With a fast sailing vessel we should probably have made a much shorter passage, for during the first 23 days, we had not six hours unfavorable wind— With such good fortune the Atlantic Ocean would become a much less formidable object; I thought myself quite an experienced Navigator compared with some on board, particularly our Servant, who was during the greater part of the time rather in need of attendance, than capable of affording any. My Brother scarcely lost his appetite, and our fellow Passenger Mr: Walker was as little indisposed as myself. “It is a good Bridge (says the proverb) that carries you safe over”; our Ship, tho’ old, leaky, & weak has brought us in a short time & in perfect safety, upon this principle she deserves our commendation; we might have gone further & fared worse.
          Since my arrival, I have scarcely been able to do any thing of consequence; if the novelty of the scene into which I have entered does not confuse my ideas too much, I shall be able perhaps at an early period to commence the subject of Politic’s, at present I can attempt only to give the flying rumors of the day, without being able to distinguish the degree of probability due to any of them.

          The French have within three months past, been successful beyond calculation; they have penetrated into Holland, much farther than at any former period; they have taken Bois-le-duc, Crevecœur &ca within a fortnight past, and the general apprehension here seems to be, that they will in a short time, be in possession of Amsterdam— The Stadtholder is at present invested with absolute power, & the only question seems to be, whether he shall capitulate for his Country & surrender it under the best terms he can make to the French, or make the attempt to save it by inundation—a measure to which we are told the Dutch are less inclined at this moment, than at any former period—
          There is a rumor of a Battle having been fought by Genl Wayne, & the Canadians in conjuction with the Indians; scarce a day passess but some story of this sort is buffeted about, to keep the mind in agitation, or to answer some stock jobing purpose—and yet, if a war should take place between us—not the hundredth part of this people would know the cause or the occasion— It is certain to me, that they never make the enquiry upon any occasion—whether right or wrong, is not a matter that seems to concern them? Why should it? The Government under which they live appears to be essential to their happiness, and if in need of support or defence it must & will have it—
          Yet the Administration appear to have terrors and apprehensions, which are real, or they are merely fictitious, and are to be used as the signals of destruction to some of the most obnoxious characters in this Kingdom. Under an accusation of Treason several persons are now in confinement; Bills of Indictment have been found against them & their trials are shortly to come on; among others is the celebrated Horne Tooke—
          Mr Jay’s negotiations are much the subject of conversation; what he has done, or is likely to effect is as little known here, as in America— I have heared but one sentiment expressed upon the subject by the people I have seen; it is, that the dispute may be amicably adjusted; the expectation however of the sudden accomplishment of so vast an object, is not so sanguine here, as with you— Diplomatic delay is perhaps better understood. Mr Jay is rather indisposed by a Rheumatic affection in his head; he is better at present, than we found him upon our arrival—
          At present I can only add that I am in all / duty & affection / Your Son

            T B Adams


Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to Abigail Adams, 20 October 1794
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dear Mother
            London 20th: Octr: 1794.

          A Passage of 28 days, landed me & my fellow Passengers safe on the shore of England— Our desire was to be put on shore at Dover, but the tide being against us from the place where the Vessel came to, we were obliged to put in to Deal; a little swindling village a few miles above Dover; here we landed, & asif we had been made of Gold or something more precious, the people were crouding round us by dozens. I assumed an aspect as ferocious & forbiding as I was able, but it neither prevented their officiousness, nor disconcerted their most disinterested civility. I had prepared Whitcomb for the reception, by all the previous instruction within my knowledge, and I believe he was fully persuaded, that every man he saw was a Knave, and not to be trusted out of ones sight, nor in it. I gave him the Counter sign, & he let go the end of a Trunk which a sturdy Porter was attempting to take up, & which would have cost some trouble but for the sign. Whitcomb was sick most of the Voyage, & was not only useless, but an incumbrance; you informed me of one complaint which I found very prevalent at Sea; and your specific for it was the only thing forgotten; I trusted to you or Dr: Welsh to have it put up; but neither our private medeine chest, nor that belonging to the Vessel contained it. A spoonful of Castor Oil would have prevented many bad effects, which other medicines did not for a

longtime relieve— we all found ourselves tollerably well upon arrival; indeed I was really Sea sick but about 12 or 20 hours, & that on the second day. The weather for the most part was pleasant enough; sometimes a little blustering but as it was usually fair, it was perhaps better to have too much, than too little—
          Since my arrival here, I have scarcely been able to transact any business; when the novelty of the scene shall be passed, I hope to rally my scattered senses, round the standard of reason & moderation once more. At present, were I to attempt a description of the different impressions I have received, my language must partake of the incoherence of my ideas; wandering as a dream, & more rapid in succession, a detail at present might bear a nearer resemblance to a real reverie, than afford a true sketch of occurrences.
          For the movement of the political waters, I must refer to what I have written to my Father. It is a small portion only, of the news of the day, & very hastily, drawn. We are waiting for the return of the Mail from Holland to learn the real state of affairs in that Country, and what we are to expect upon our arrival there— The general apprehension here seems to be that the ruling powers of Holland will negotiate the most favorable terms with the French, they can; but it scarce admits a doubt, that the French will be able in a short time to impose what terms they please. It will not be a pleasant thing to reside in that Country at this period; but since the death of Robespiere the system of the French is said to be less sanguinary, & should they even overrun Holland during our residence, we may chance to escape molestation. In the course of a week from this time, we expect to take our departure from London.
          Mr: Jay we found somewhat indisposed, but he has recovered so far as to go out— He is treated with a vast deal of respect & attention. A War with America, is the subject of conversation, but the universal wish so far as I have heared seems to be for peace & amity— The French are & have been successful, beyond all calculation for four months past.
          I cannot omit to mention the Civility of Mr. Dickason & his family;—every attention has been shewn us by them within their power. In the procurement of our Bagage we have received every assistance. Mr. Vaughan, Mr Bird, and in short every person to whom we have been introduced, have discovered a disposition to serve us, much beyond my expectations. I shall certainly be ennamored with the hospitality of this people, whatever drawback may arise from other sources—

          I wish to say a thousand things more, but for the present must content myself with subscribing

            Thomas B Adams