Title: To John Adams from Edmund Randolph, 30 April 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Adams, John

Sir
Department of State—April 30th: 1794.

As soon as I received the resolution of the Senate, requiring an abstract to be made of the cases of vexation and spoliation, it was begun. At that time, notwithstanding the pressure of business in the department, I expected soon to accomplish what was called for.
But after some days, new cases crouded in so fast; that the number and labour is increased more than four fold. Resuming therefore, that it would be the desire of the Senate, to see an abstract of the whole, and not merely of such, as had appeared at the date of my Report; I have ventured to consider the whole, as virtually included in the resolution of the Senate, and have proceeded accordingly. I hope the abstract will be finished in a few days; and I trouble you with this letter, to prevent a supposition of inattention or unnecessary delay on my part—
I have the honor, Sir, to be / With great Respect / yo. mo. ob. serv.
Edm: Randolph


Title: To John Adams from N. Olive, 1 May 1794
From: Olive, N.
To: Adams, John

					Monsieur
					New-york 1er. Mai 1794.

				J’ai reçu la lettre que vous m’avez fait L’honneur de m’écrire le 22: du mois dernier; je Suis très sensible aux invitations précieuses que vous voulez bien me faire et diner le cas où mon séjour ici fut indispensable y ayant des interêts assez majeurs; je vous Supplie de me faire prévenir de votre passage à New-york après la cession du Congrès afin que j’aie l’honneur de vous voir, Monsieur & de vous présenter ma famille.Je désire que l’hommage que j’ai fait au sénat des Etats-unis par votre entremise ait été agreable, je me trouve avoir bésoin dans ce moment-ci d’un plan de frégatte pareil a celui que jai offert ayant depuis peu conçu un projet qui peut être utile, oserois-je vous Supplier, Monsieur, de me faire faire & de m’envoyer un Copie de ce plan, ou Si cela vous cause le plus petit embarras je chargerai une de mes amis de Philadelphie de le faire copier lui-même, & je vous l’indiquerai afin que vous ayez la bonté de le lui confier seulement quatre à cinq Jours, je vous en aurai obligation.Jai appris avec douleur que M. Grand pere à perdu Sa femme. Il étoit avec sa famille retiré à Passy d’où Il ne pouvoit quitter par attachement pour un lieu qu’il a creé et rendu trés agréable, Ses enfants le pressoient en vain d’aller en Suisse et de jouir de la faveur accordée à tous les Suisses résidants en france de retourner dans leur pays, même avec leur fortune. M. Grand chérit le lieu où il a perdu sa vieille amie, Cest là qu’il là pleure & qu’il veut finir ses Jours. Je l’informerai de l’interêt que vous prenez à Son Sort et je pense que ce Sera un adoucissemt. à son chagrin.Je Suis avec Respect, / Monsieur, / Votre très humble & très / obeissant Serviteur.

					N. Olive


Title: From John Adams to Joseph Willard, 6 May 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Willard, Joseph

Dear Sir
Philadelphia May 6. 1794

I beg Leave to communicate, through your kind mediation, to the Members of the American Accademy of Arts and Sciences, my most affectionate and respectful Thanks for the Honour they have done me by repeated Elections to their Chair. If I have ever entertained a hope that I might at some time or other have been of some Use to that respectable Society, the State of Publick Affairs has hitherto wholly prevented me; and the present and future Prospects render it wholly impossible for me to give the Smallest Attention to the Interest or Honour of that Institution which has such just and so important Claims upon its President.
As it would be unbecoming in me, therefore, any longer to withhold the Honours of the Accademy from other Gentlemen, who have so much better deserved them and are so much better qualified to do service, I hereby decline the future Election to the office of President of The Accademy of Arts and Sciences.
With great Respect and / Esteem for the Members of the Accademy / in general and with the highest Consideration / for yourself in particular, I / have the Honour to be Dear sir / your most obedient Sert

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Welsh, 6 May 1794
From: Welsh, Thomas
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Boston May 6th 1794.

Your Favor of the 7th Ulto: stands ’till this Moment unacklowdged.
I did not like the Method of electioneering which you so justly deem improper; but it seemed in sum Sort justifiable at the Moment to counteract the effects of the Promoters of it. but I hope it will not in future be persued. Mr Adams, the Secretary informed me last Eveng, will probably be chosen by three fifths of the Voters. the Returns being nearly compleated excepting those from the County of Berkshire which have not been received. there will be no choice of Lieut Governor Mr Gill Mr Gerry Gorham and I think Phillips will be the Candidates.
The Humane Society has been called upon at different Times during the Session of Congress both by individuals and in the public Papers to promote by their Recommendation the obtainment of a Contribution for the Relief of the American Prisoners in Algiers this the Trustee’s thought might have a Tendency to interfere with the Views of Congress and therefore declined encourageing. last Evening at the Monthly Meeting of the Trustees the Subject was again brought up and a Proposal made for the Trustees to petition the General Court or the Executive of the State to issue a Brief to procure a Contribution for the Relief of the Prisoners from Captivity or if the Sum collected was not sufficient for the Purpose to render their Situation more comfortable. but this proposal was waved and a Committee appointed to consider the Propriety of such an Application
The Comee. consisted of Mr Russell Jna Mason Senr Mr Balch Dr Howard and myself. Mr Balch observed that He had a Cousin a Prisoner and he had consulted you upon this Subject and that your Advice was not to do anything at present as the Subject was before Congress. The other Gentlemen of the Comee: therefore desired me to write you and to take your sense upon the Propriety of the Application, or in other words whether such a Measure will in any Way injure the Arrangements of Congress there will be sufficient Time for your Reply as the Committee have ’till the first Monday in June to prepare a Report.
I was at Quincy last Saturday I saw Mrs Hall your aged Mother and I fear she will not tarry with us through the Summer I saw her when she was taken in Feby I then thought she might reconst. but it appears to me that her Lungs are materially affected and that her Complaints are hectic. her understanding remains uninjured by the Malady.
I am Sr with much Respect Your Friend &c

Thomas Welsh


Title: To John Adams from N. Olive, 7 May 1794
From: Olive, N.
To: Adams, John

					Monsieur
					New-york le 7 Mai 1794.

				Depuis la lettre que j’ai eû l’honneur de vous écrire le per. de ce moi par laqu’elle je vous priois de me confier le plan original de fregatte que j’ai offert au Senat des Etats-unis pour en faire tirer un copie dont j’ai besoin; j’ai trouvé quelqu’un qui a bien voulu se charger de là faire faire très promptement. Je vous prie donc, Monsieur, de remettre ce plan au porteur qui vous le fera rendre aussitot qu’il en aura fait faire la Copie.Je vous demande pardon de l’embarrâs & suis avec Respect / Monsieur, / Votre très humble & tres / obeissant Serviteur.

					N. Olive


Title: To John Adams from Jacob Morgan, 9 May 1794
From: Morgan, Jacob
To: Adams, John

Sir.
Philadelphia, 9th: May 1794

In compliance with the request of my FellowCitizens, I have the honor to transmit to you, a Copy of the Resolutions which were yesterday unanimously adopted, at their General Meeting, to express their sense of the proposition depending in Congress, for imposing an Excise on certain Domestic Manufactures, which you will be pleased to lay before the Senate.
I am, Sir, / Your Most Obedt. Hble serv.

Jacob MorganChairman


Title: From Peter Legaux to John Adams, 15 May 1794
From: Legaux, Peter
To: Adams, John,United States Senate

					The Honorable the President and Members of the Senate of the United States.Gentlemen,
					Springmill May 15. 1794.

				The only and lively zeal which has animated me for these 8 years past for the welfare and prosperity of America has induced me to attempt a kind of agriculture hitherto unknown here. The encouragement which the President of the United States and some among you, Gentlemen, have been pleased to give me has undoubtedly contributed not a little to augment this zeal, and turn my labours into pleasures. Success having crowned my intentions beyond all expectation; I think it my duty to offer you herewith my acknowledgments; humbly praying that you will be pleased to continue to bestow your patronage on my vineyard which for reasons in which all men now agree and which at present agitate the politicks and interrupt our trade, is of the utmost importance for America. The best things in the world have nevertheless their enemies and it is for this reason that an improvement of this kind might meet with some obstacles, if your known patriotism did not induce you to prevent the effects thereof: this I am convinced of by the interest I am persuaded you would take therein, if you had viewed the experiment with your own Eyes. This persuasion induces me to request that you will convince yourselves of the success of the culture of the vine in this new Empire, where formerly England made several unsuccessful attempts for the same purpose. I would spare you the trouble of a journey of thirteen miles, if it was in the power of mankind to transfer mountains, and to lay before you a natural vineyard as easily as a Geographer could present you with a map of the world. A subscription has been authorized by Government in order to furnish America with wine, brandy, tartar &c. I beg of you not to subscribe until you have assured yourselves of the success which the goodness of your soil and the temperature of your climate have procured me since the beginning of my undertaking: vouchsafe then to honor my vineyard with your presence, and then you will be convinced from ocular demonstration that America need not go to foreign markets for her Wines as she can supply her own wants and gratify all the wishes of the inhabitants in that article at home.I am with the greatest respect / Gentlemen / your most obedient humble / servant.

					P Legaux


Title: To John Adams from Rufus King, 20 May 1794
From: King, Rufus
To: Adams, John

Sir
Philadelphia 20 May 1794

The amendment reported by the committee of the Senate to the Bill relative to the Balances due to the Creditor States is in itself so important, and particularly so interesting to the State of New york, that I feel great reluctance to be absent while the same is under Discussion; but a sudden indisposition in my family compels me to return to Newyork, I hope to be again in my Place on Monday or Tuesday next—
May I be permitted Sir, through you, to request the Senate to suspend a Decision upon this Subject for a few days? The unexpected Absence of my Colleague, occasioned by an afflicting Event in his family, may be deemed an additional apology for my asking this Indulgence—
With great respect / I am &c

Rufus King


Title: To John Adams from Edmund Randolph, 20 May 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Adams, John

Sir
Philadelphia May 20. 1794

I now do myself the honor of transmitting to the senate, the abstract of vexations and spoliations of our commerce, which was required by their resolution of the 13th. day of March last.  The volume sent will shew, that such a business could not be immediately completed. Indeed, sir, I was compelled, by the burthen of business daily depending and arising in the office, to engage a gentleman of the law, to assist me in preparing the abstract.
Permit me to remark, that the documents, which have been forwarded to me, are in many instances so imperfect, as to render it impossible to make such regular statements, as I wished.
I ought at the same time to observe, that on the second day of March 1794, when I wrote my letter to the President of the United States, the cases of complaint against the British were thirty two; against the French twenty six; against the Spanish ten; and against the Dutch one.  The propriety therefore of what that letter Contains, will not be determined by the great list, which has been exhibited since; nor will it be supposed, that I ever have undertaken, or do now undertake to vouch for a single fact; having made, and being able to make, no enquiry before the allegations of the parties interested.
The abstract would have been drawn in the first instance; had it not been intended to endeavour to settle the business by representations to the foreign courts. Unless the senate declares, that the  be retained here, it is probable, that many of them will be sent abroad.
I have the honor, sir, to be / with very great respect / yr. mo. ob. serv.


Title: To John Adams from Peter Whitney, 20 May 1794
From: Whitney, Peter
To: Adams, John

Sir
Northborough, May, 20th, 1794—

I have taken the liberty of dedicating a history of the County of Worcester to You.
You will please to accept a Volume of the work.
Though not personally known to your honor, you will do me the favor to believe that I have a Sincere respect for, & high esteem of, you; & permit me to add, that I am,
Dear Sir, Your most obedient / & most humble servt.

Peter Whitney


Title: To John Adams from Edmund Randolph, 27 May 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Adams, John

May 27. 1794

E. Randolph presents his best respects to Mr. Adams and informs him, that Mr. Short’s nomination to Madrid must necessarily precede that of his successor to the Hague. Mr. Adams will therefore not be surprized at finding no nomination for the Hague, made to–day.


Title: To John Adams from Henry Knox, 5 June 1794
From: Knox, Henry
To: Adams, John

Sir
War department June 5th. 1794

In obedience to the order of the honorable the Senate of the United States, of yesterday, I respectfully submit a statement of the troops of the United States according to the last returns.
I have the honor to be / with great respect / Sir / Your most obedt. servant,

H Knox.Secy of War


Title: From John Adams to George Hammond, 16 June 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Hammond, George

Dear sir
Quincy June 16. 1794

Permit me to introduce to you, rather too formally to be sure, as it is an old Acquaintance, my son John Quincy Adams, whom the President has honoured with an Appointment to Holland.
His Disposition to Peace is as hearty as that of his Father, and in every Thing that may depend upon him, his Endeavours will not be wanting I presume to preserve it.  Mrs Adams joins me in Compliments to Mrs. Hammond. With great / and sincere Esteem I have the honour / to be &c.

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Brand Hollis, 22 June 1794
From: Hollis, Thomas Brand
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
June 22 1794 Chesterfeild Street
I recd your letter with the correspondence of Gennet for wch am much obliged to you but being put into the post it cost 19S which the captains often do as soon as they come to Land— how mine was delayed know not beleive it was by a private hand.
The communication by letters is exceeding dangerous the habeas corpus bill being suspended, wch gives power equal to lettres de cachet & it is used not only to prevent correspondence but to examine all letters.
it was the remarks on paine wch Stockdale had the impudence to publish in your name but nobody beleived it— The same man had the assurance to repeat through 3 Edits of the life of Paine that I was instrumental to the publishing the rights of Man presiding over a committee of Democrates in this house whereas I never saw the book till it was printed, nor was there ever a committee of democrates in this house nor did I ever preside at any one any where else but it was done on purpose to mark a simple individual & it has had its effect.
if I called your performance a book it was not in contempt of it but in honor for remember Thucidides called a book an inheritance
in your work you have proved your point that for want of a Balance former republicks have died away but it was not for want of finding that Balance but not knowing how to preserve that Balance when found, & in practice & therefore it has never been effected whither it is not better to build on a broader basis & not like a china Jarr admired at a distance but fall to peices when Touched
I esteem your work greatly & it introduces a new branch of Litterature much neglected & unknown in so much I wish you would complet it as much as you can by continuing your collection of Italian States.
know then dear sir I have begun a series of that kind but want your presence & aid to encourge & assist me without any animosity to the Man who is very ignorant & impudent & is not to be depended on.
I fear your labors would suffer greatly as he will consult nothing but his own interest & that at any rate—the situation of this country is truly deplorabl & prevents for the present other attentions
I had wrote a long letter on French affairs but prudence prevents sending it you could have given me your opinion freely but I cannot tho we think very differently!!!
should be glad to see your dialogue but why bring in Louis—France will neither be sluiced out nor partitioned by the combined power nor call out for the restoration of the old monarchy but—
Mr Jay & Mr Trumbull gave me the pleasure of their company this day am highly pleased with the republican simplicity & good sence of yr minister & have no doubt he will maintain the dignity of his republick & presenting its rights and liberty—will secure an Asylum to the virtuous & distrest where the long hands of Tyrants cannot reach I have inclosed a few pamphlets & with them send my best wishes for health & happiness to you & Mrs Adams & desire you to beleive I am Dear Sir / Sincerely & affectionately yours


Title: To John Adams from John Trumbull, 25 June 1794
From: Trumbull, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
London June 25th: 1794.

I have the pleasure to forward to the care of your Son in Boston, a packet which I presume comes from your friend Mr. Hollis—neither Lord Wycombe nor Mr. B. Vaughan are in Town. but your Letters I have been careful to forward.
The Campaign by Sea as well as by Land is thus far severe & bloody—In the Naval Engagement the French Suffer’d a severe loss, which they consider as compensated in a great degree by the safe arrival of the convoy from the Chesapeak.—Towards Spain & Italy their Armies are Victorious.—On the Rhine they have lost ground.—in Flanders where the great Effort is made, they have gaind more than they have lost.—& Ypres if taken as it is universally believed to be, gives them the command of all Maritime Flanders.—on the Whole they appear to be in a condition (so long as their present internal union & energy continue) to overpower all external opposition:—
Their Government approaches daily nearer to a dictatorship in One person instead of in commission, as it has been in fact for some time:—Danton &c &c are gone. And all competitors appear to sink before the mighty popularity & power of Robespierre—How long he can retain these, or avoid the Guillotine & the Dagger we know not.
Poland is making a much firmer struggle against her Oppressors, than her best friends would have expected.—it is suppos’d that the Turk will side with her against Russia. in which case She has some distant chance of success.—In the mean time it occasions a most important diversion in favr of France by calling off entirely the King of Prussia.
In this country, the language of the mercantile & manufacturing interests are favorable to peace with us. how far their wishes will influence the conduct of the Government, a little more time will Shew.—we at least may found some hopes of peace upon the combination of internal & external motives which equally appear to press in our favor.
You will excuse this line—& believe me to be with much Respect / Sir / Your Obligd & real frind & servant

Jno. Trumbull


Title: To John Adams from John Sinclair, 5 July 1794
From: Sinclair, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Whitehall London. 5 July 1794.

I request the favour of your attention to the bearer, William Strickland Esqr, a gentleman of considerable Property in Yorkshire, and an honorary member of the Board of agricultural, who proposes taking an agricultural survey of America. Any civilities you will have the goodness to show to him, will much oblige,
Your very faithful / humble Servant

John Sinclair


Title: To John Adams from John Cranch, 8 July 1794
From: Cranch, John
To: Adams, John

Honor’d Sir;
No. 15. Essex Street, Strand, London 8 July 1794.
I hope your Excellency will pardon my presumption in sending to you these books, with the specimens; and condescend to accept the same in acknowledgment of my gratitude for the notices you have honor’d me with: I send two other copies to Uncle Cranch, one for himself, and the other for the Academy; and 3 or 4 more for other friends in New England,—having some apprehension that the work neither is, nor will be published, and on that account dreading a mortification of my own Vanity—(being I observe honorably mentioned in it)—no less than a disappointment of the more laudable views of the ingenious author.
I hope my respectfull Compliments may be acceptable to Mrs. Adams and yourself; being, most faithfully, / Sir, / Your Excellency’s / obliged, obedient / humble servant
John Cranch.
P.S. The person who does me the favor to take these things to America, is Mr. Peironnet, lately an officer in our navy, who is going to settle in your country, and is an intelligent and deserving young man, and much attached to me.


Title: To John Adams from John Trumbull, 15 July 1794
From: Trumbull, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
London July 15th. 1794.

I have the Honor to forward a packet which I presume is from your friend Mr. Brand Hollis: and also to add two or three the latest Newspapers.—
The Affairs of the Combin’d powers have very much chang’d their Aspect since the Opining of the Campaign within four or five weeks all Flanders, as far as Namur on one hand & Antwerp on the other is lost by them:—
The Austrian Troops are said to be exhausted with fighting. the English, Dutch & Hanoverians are not equal in Number to their Opponents: to whom great reinforcements are said to be now on the March:—so that considering that there are no verystrong positions in front of Breda on one hand or Maestricht on the other it is a prevailing opinion here that All Flanders is lost; & there are who trouble for the Fate of Holland.
The Effort of Poland has call’d off the Attention of the King of Prussia:—The Spaniard is thought to be negotiating for a separate peace.—& the Emperor is believ’d to be tir’d of ineffectual Efforts:—The Loan which He obtain’d here two Months since cannot be paid of course: it was taken by 50 Men at £50,000 each, & the security was the Revenues of Flanders:—while the fate of this part of his Dominions was doubtful no person would buy his Scrip:—now that this fate is decided in a way so destructive to him, no one will, & the original subscribers if the could (which I doubt) will not pay.
My Conjecture is that the war by Land is nearly at an End:—& that this Country will soon turn all Her attention to the Sea.
How our Affairs are to Issue is yet uncertain at Loyd’s Coffeehouse a Policy was offer’d on Saturday last to ensure Peace with America One Year:—Fifteen Guineas upon an Hundred pounds were offer’d, but nobody would write:—I will only say in the words of Scripture—Be ye also ready;—neither put your trust in Princes.
I congratulate you (on Newspaper Authority) on the Appointment of your Son in Holland, & hope we shall soon have the pleasure to see him.—
Mr. Freire whom you remember, sail’d a few days ago for New York as Minister from Portugal.
I beg to be remember’d to Mrs. Adams, / & am / with the highest Respect / Sir / Your Oblig’d & Humble servant / & friend

Jno. Trumbull


Title: To John Adams from John Jay, 27 July 1794
From: Jay, John
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
London 27 July 1794—

Docr. Edwards of Philada. will be so obliging as to take charge of this Letter. I regret that he & Mrs. Edwards leave this peace so soon—. You will find him a Gentleman of extensive Information.—He has visited the greater part of this Kingdom, and paid particular attention to the Husbandry of it.—Permit me to introduce him to You.
I have heard, and wish it may be true, that your Son is appointed to Holland. He will there meet with many of your friends. His Talents, Education, & attention to Business promise Utility to his Country, Honor to himself, and Satisfaction to You—That all these Prospects may be realized is the sincere wish of / Dear Sir your most obt. & hble Servt.

John Jay——


Title: To John Adams from John Trumbull, 27 July 1794
From: Trumbull, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
London 27th. July 1794.

Will you permit me to present to your acquaintance Dr: Edwards of Pensylvania:—He returns by the way of Boston & the Northern States to Philadelphia, after having pass’d some time in this Kingdom, attending particularly to its agriculture:—On this Subject as well as the general Ones of the War & present state of Europe you will find Dr. Edwards very well inform’d, & will I doubt not derive much pleasure from his Conversation.
I beg Mrs. Adams’s permission, at the same time to commend to her kindness Mrs. Edwards & Miss Clarkson.
I am with much Respect / Sir / Your much Obligd servant
Jno. Trumbull


Title: To John Adams from Edmund Randolph, 8 August 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Philadelphia August 8. 1794.

The letter, which Mr. Adams delivered to me from you, was truly acceptable, as well from its friendly style, as the opportunity, which it presented, Of an Acquaintance with him.  When he was first contemplated for the Hague, my mind readily embraced the idea, under the influence of his own merit. I must be permitted at the same time to own, that the public services of the father strongly confirmed the pratensions of the son.  He will therefore find in me, that mode of conduct, which will mark my respect and esteem for both.
Mr. Adams will inform you, that we are upon the eve of a great crisis.  He knows all the circumstances; or I would, notwithstanding my pressure, snatch a moment to detail them.
In all situations, sir, I shall ever be / with real esteem and regard / yr. mo. ob. serv:

Edm: Randolph


Title: To John Adams from Jonathan James Maund, 17 August 1794
From: Maund, Jonathan James
To: Adams, John

Sir
Kuisale Westmoreland County in Virginia 17th. Aug. 1794

The inclos’d Letter for my Friend your Son will I trust plead my excuse for addressing you: it is in Answer to a Letter from him in Philadelphia where I experienc’d the pleasure of his Society and as he informs me that he was the Last month to leave America for Holland I at present know of no other Opportunity of assuring him of my Affection than by thus troubling you to take Charge of my Letter
Permit me to request that you will inform me his Address for I fear that inclosing my Letters to your Care may be troublesome.
I have the Honor to be very Respectfully / Sir / Your most Hble Servt.

Jno: Jas: Maund


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Brand Hollis, 26 August 1794
From: Hollis, Thomas Brand
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
The Hide Aug 26. 1794

I am desired by Mr J Cartwright, whom I beleive you know by his writings, a firm honest & inflexible man in the cause of Freedom & a sincere friend to the true interests of America, by him I am requested to introduce two young men to some persons in America it occurred to me that your disposition & situation in life might be of service to them, Mark & Robert Denison. Their Father “Mr Denison is concerned in a large cotton manufactury at Nottingham: a large cotton mill of his has been infamously attempted to have been destroyed this event & I beleive the general complexion of things in this country have determin’d Mr Denison to remove his whole family to America whither his two eldest sons Mark & Robert are now about to embark on board a ship from London: They proceed to Philadelphia & thence in the spring to Baltimore New york & Boston in order to look out for an eligible situation for their future establishment.”
major Cartwright assures me it is a family among whom he knows not an individual but is worthy of esteem & affection they are persons of considerable property & the circumstance of their fleeing from this country to take refuge in America is a practical comment on the two governments which he saies places them in a just light.”
“Mr Denison carries on the hosiery trade at Nottingham to a large extent as manufacturer & merchant & his two eldest sons have been with him ever since they completed their education.  they are a very valuable & virtuous family amongst whom as much affection & concord is to be observed as perhaps in any family in this Island. The mother is a most amiable & sensible woman but suffers extremely from ill health.” you will observe the account of this deserving family is from Mr Cartwright & he is to be depended on therefore from their worth I wish your protection & encouragement which I shall esteem a favor & obligation. I need not remind you that America is the only Asylum but it is to be hoped it will not long stand alone profit therefore of the times. I cannot write more at present being streigthend as this must be sent directly away.
hoping you are well in health & that my amiable friend mrs Adams has recover’d hers
I remain Dear Sir / with great regard / yours very Sincerely
T Brand HollisRobertspierre is taken of & the Nation is Quiet & active.


Title: To John Adams from François Adriaan Van der Kemp, 28 August 1794
From: Van der Kemp, François Adriaan
To: Adams, John

Sir!
Rotterdam at the Oneida Lake 28 Aug. 1794.—

Confiding that mÿ moving to the western Parts, and arrival there Shall be by your Excellency a Sufficient plea for the excuse of this Letter, being unable to give a more valid, I am So free to renew for a few moments the remembrance of him whom you honour’d to this time with your esteem.
The Situation here is delightful—the Soil rich enough—and my Seat in particular would admit everÿ improvement of taste, if my finances were adequate to it.I have been imposed by those, who contracted to clear a great part, and left it nearly untouched—this had been a considerable loss.  however grieveous this maÿ be, all will be Surmounted in time—if once I may be happy enough to See my family on the Spot. Mrs. vanderkemp is Still at Mr. G. Boon’s in Services, with the familÿ of Mr Mappa, where She Shall Stay, till I have prepared the outhouses and a convenient Log house, as was intended for a temporarÿ Residence. She is resolved to make few Sacrifices more, and more yet, if by necessity it is required that is should become permanent.  To avoid this however, and to make our retirement more comfortable to my worthy Consort, as accustomed to a nother manner of Living; I am resolved, to repair for a Small part our losses, to offer mÿ Librarÿ for Sale in the hope, that the amount Shall be Sufficient to build a convenient house.  It consist chiefly of Belles Lettres of ancient and modern Languages—first, and magnificent editions, neatly bound—There few Americans shall be longing to make this acquisition—I imagine, that your Excell, might perhaps recommend it to one of his acquaintances. I value it between 400 and 500 £, and I Shall prepare the Catalogue this winter.So much of mÿ domestic cares, which I know are not indifferent to your Excell.
I did write to N. york and Philadelphia, I adressed my Self in both cities by private gentlemen, but could not enjoÿ, to this time, the Satisfaction of Seeing and perusing Davila’ discourses—I hope your Excell may find an opportunity, in conveying it to me, the one or other time, it will afford me a fresh regard of your esteem.  Though retire’d from all public business, and as burried in the wilderness I am not indifferent in the progress of Sciences or welfare of mÿ countrÿ—’tho I place So much confidence in the principal rulers that I am less anxious to trouble myself with the Sub-alterns I love to make one thorough-ly acquainted with the principles on which good government must be conducted—Between this Study and that of agriculture, if that of Bel. Lett. Might be broken of between these and the Education of my children, and the improving of my Land my time Shall be emplored—So I will enjoy be here and comfort and contentment, live happÿ in the bosom of my family far removed from the noise of the crowded multitude, unknown by all—few excepted, who will honour me with the marks of their distinction—self in the western wilderness.
Permit me to recommend me and mÿ family to your remembrance, and believe me, when I assure you, that no American can pledge himselves, with more warmth and Sincerity, to your Excell. with higher Sentiments of consideration and respect than / Sir! / your Excell.- most ob. humb. Servant

Fr. Adr. vanderkempP.S. in case of war the neighbourhood of Oswego would not be desirablebut I flatter  myself with the continuation of peace.


Title: To John Adams from François D’Ivernois, 30 August 1794
From: D’Ivernois, François
To: Adams, John

					Monsieur
					Londres ce 30e Aoust 1794

				J’ai l’honneur de vous adresser le Duplicata de trois Depeches que je vous ai expédiées le 23e Ct par la Minerve. Celles ci ne contiennent rien de nouveau si ce n’est les deux dernieres pages du No 1 qui annoncent les nouvelles ultérieures de Geneve. Ce n’est plus une Révolution passagere qui s’y promesse: C’est une fureur destructive qui semble particulierement menacer les lettres & les sciences et surtout nos établissements Religieux & Académique; comme si aux yeux de ces Révolutionaires non moins aveugles que feroces, notre Académie; qui avait versé tant de prospérités sur Geneve, était devenue tout à coup ainsi que la Religion une institution Aristocratique!Ces nouvelles desastreuses m’attachent de plus en plus au projet que je vous ai soumis Monsieur, et m’en prouve toujours davantage la praticabilité de la part des Genevois, si l’Amérique de son coté consent au sacrifice nécessaire à son succès. Cependant j’ignore absolument si elle voudra s’y préter, je ne dis point en considération de l’industrie & des Capitaux qu’y porteraient nos Colons; mais en contemplation de nos malheurs, & surtout en contemplation faveur d’une circonstance aussi extraordinaire et aussi nouvelle que la transplantation d’une Université.La dot que je réclame pour refonder la notre, paraitra peut etre énorme: Mais si l’on considere que dans les circonstances où nous nous trouvons, il faut pour assurer le succès meme de sa transplantation, lui donner dès son origine toute l’extension dont elle est capable; si l’on observe qu’il serait également facile & important de lui associer un College à part pour l’éducation des enfans des deux sexes les plus pauvres, college qui devrait etre par conséquent gratuit comme chez nous, pour tout ce qui tient aux secours dinstruction élementaire; on comprendra combien la somme que je sollicite est tout à la fois modique & indispensable. Elle l’est tellement à mes yeux, que sans l’obtention de quelque patrimoine pareil, je ne saurais prendre sur moi de conseiller une transplantation aussi hazardeuse à notre Colonie Académique. Et c’est cependant celle ci qui doit etre le noyeau & assurer les succès de notre Colonie agricole & commerciale.Tous les divers appercus que j’ai été à meme de rassembler de si loin, me porteraient à croire Monsieur, que le voisinage plus ou moins rapproché de la ville fœdérative serait peut etre la situation qui conviendrait le mieux à notre établissement, puisqu’il pourrait s’y marier admirablement à celui de la Capitale naissante, &  etre d’une égale utilité soit à la Province de Mary Land, soit à celle de Virginie. Dailleurs, s’il est vrai que celle ci soit à la recherche des moyens de multiplier ses instituts d’éducation publique, il semble qu’elle pourrait trouver en meme tems dans l’adoption du notre, de quoi suppléer dans son propre sein à l’éducation étrangere & dispendieuse qu’une partie de sa jeunesse vient chercher sur notre Continent.La richesse de cette derniere Province semblerait offrir en outre un moyen de plus pour le succès prompt & complet de notre Négociation, en lui facilitant davantage, soit le don des terres qu’elle peut encore posséder, soit l’appropriation de tout autre revenu quelconque annuel & suffisant. Si vous en jugiez comme moi Monsieur, personne ne ferait sans doute plus à meme de préparer ce succès et de l’assurer que S. E. le General Washington & Mr Jefferson auxquels je vous prèe de vouloir bien communiquer mes Dépeches à cet effet, en leur présentant mes respects.Agreez l’expression de celui avec lequel j’ai l’honneur d’etre, Monsieur / Votre tres humble / & tres obéissant serviteur

					F d’Ivernois


Title: To John Adams from George Hammond, 4 October 1794
From: Hammond, George
To: Adams, John

Sir,
New York 4th October 1794.

This letter will be delivered to you by Mr Strickland, a very respectable English Gentleman and a friend of mine, whom, as he proposes making a tour in the eastern states, I take the liberty of introducing to your acquaintance, and of assuring you, that I shall esteem any attentions and civilities shewn to him as personal favors conferred upon myself—
I have the honor to be with the greatest regard / Sir, / your most obedient / humble servant

Geo: Hammond.


Title: To John Adams from François D’Ivernois, 4 October 1794
From: D’Ivernois, François
To: Adams, John

					Monsieur
					Londres ce 4e 8bre 1794

				J’ai l’honneur de vous adresser ici une 4e continuation de l’historique des convulsions toujours croissantes de la malheureuse Geneve. sa lecture suffira pour vous faire comprendre combien est praticable et pressant l’établissement que j’ai proposé à l’amérique en faveur de mes malheureux compatriotes, et que je viens recommander de nouveau à votre protection & à votre appui.J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec respect / Monsieur, / Votre tres humble / & tres obéissant serviteur

					F d’Ivernois


Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 23 October 1794
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

My dear Sir.
London October 23. 1794.

On the 15th: instant in the Evening, twenty-eight days after our departure from Boston, we arrived in this place, and I now write you from our old station at Osborne’s Hotel, in the Adelphi.
We landed at Deal and came up from thence by Land. The Dispatches which had been delivered to me for Mr. Jay, and which were my principal inducement for coming here, were so bulky that they could not be contained in a trunk which I could bring with me in the Post-Chaise, and therefore I had the trunk that held them lashed on before, so as to have it immediately under my eyes. It was about 7 in the Evening, and of course quite dark, when we reached London Bridge. About a quarter of a mile on the other side of it, I thought I heard something fall, and instantly upon looking forward, found the trunk, together with another which had been put with it, were both gone. My brother instantly alighted; and fortunately found the trunk of papers directly under the carriage: the other was a few yards behind; under the horses hoofs of another Carriage which followed us. We secured both in the Chaise with us until we reached the house where we stopped, and upon coming to a light found that the Ropes and leather straps which had held the trunks had all been cut away.
I was sufficiently aware how far the felonious ingenuity was carried in this ingenious town, and from the moment of my landing had felt a great weight of anxiety on my mind with respect to my papers. I kept therefore a watch as strict as possible over them; and yet I cannot but attribute it to an extraordinary degree of good fortune that in the noise and bustle of a London Street, in the darkness of the night I was enabled to save the trunk, which had fallen from a carriage upon the full drive over the pavements, and which in half a minute more would have been irretrievably gone.
After such an accident, I could not possibly sleep, with Mr: Jay’s dispatches in my possession. I therefore delivered them to him myself, the same evening. I found he had been two or three days confined to his chamber by rheumatic complaints, but he has now I think entirely recovered from them.
He has fully communicated to me the State of his negotiation here, and has done me the honour to consult me with respect to the Treaty now in discussion between him, and the Ministry here. It has been brought so nearly to a termination, that I presume it will within three months be laid before the Senate for consideration. The terms are such as will not suit many people in America, and yet the stipulations on our part appear to me to be no more than honour, and honesty dictate, and the satisfaction to be made by them almost as much, (setting aside the further delay as to the delivery of the Posts, I should say quite as much) as we are fairly entitled to require. The national honour will be maintained; the national Interest will suffer infinitely less, than it would by the most successful War we could wage; and is it in the heart of an American to derive an objection from the consideration that by this Treaty the National Justice will be fully complied with and performed?
I have not supposed myself competent to form a proper judgment upon a subject of this magnitude, without longer time, and more extensive information than I have been able to command. When Mr: Jay therefore condescended to take my opinion, I told him that as the whole project, I felt myself inadequate to the decision from my own mind, and I could but assent to the idea in which he and Mr: Pinckney concurred, that it was better than War. As to the several articles they were freely canvassed by those two Gentlemen for three days during which I was present at their interviews, and suggested such ideas as occurred to me upon the subject. My observations were made with the diffidence which naturally arose from my situation; and were treated with all the attention, that I could expect or desire.
Upon the first occasion on which as the Servant of my Country, I have been called to think, and to speak, I am desirous to give you a full account of the manner in which I have conducted. Young as I am and unused to the Station in which I am placed, my only hope is that the indiscretions of my noviciate may be few and unimportant. The confidence reposed in me by Mr: Jay on this occasion has been flattering in the highest degree, and I hope he will have no occasion to regret it. His kindness and civilities to my brother and me since our arrival, have been fully correspondent to the friendship which has so long subsisted between him and you, and to the benevolence which I have always experienced from him. We are also indebted to Mr: Pinckney for every possible attention and civility, since our arrival. He has lately had the misfortune of losing his Lady.
When I asked you, before I left America, what I should do, if upon my arrival in Europe, I should find no States General and no Stadtholder, the circumstance was nearer to the eventual fact, than I expected. The successes of the french Armies in every quarter have been exceeded all the powers of calculation; they are in full possession at this moment of all Flanders and Brabant; they are besieging Nimeguen and Maestricht, and it is admitted on all hands that nothing remains but a General Inundation to keep them out of Amsterdam. Against this measure there appears to be a formidable opposition on the part of the people: the patriotic party are again emerging from the silence of despair, and one or two of the Provinces have already declared for negotiating a separate Peace.
At Amsterdam a petition said to be signed by nine thousand persons was lately presented to the magistrates in Session, against the admission of their allies’ troops into the City, and against the Inundation. Mr: Van Staphorst and Mr: Visscher were two of the three deputies from the people who presented the petition; it was delivered in defiance of a law against petitions in times of danger, and I am informed that Mr: Van Staphorst is imprisoned in consequence of this procedure. Troops of Cavalry have been introduced into the City and parade the Streets. Cannon are placed at the Stadthouse, and attended with lighted matches, and the Stadtholder has threatened declared that any man who shall discover the smallest sign of opposition to the regular authority, shall be punished with instant Death.
In this convulsive situation, between the army of an invading enemy, and those of allies equally terrible the people in the Province of Holland are at this moment placed. The crisis cannot possibly be of long duration. The Stadtholder has been invested by the States General with a dictatorial power. His measures probably will be to receive the army of the Duke of York into Amsterdam, and to lay the Country under water. But the decided inclination of a great majority of the people being opposed to this step, it becomes a question whether it will be practicable, and upon the issue of this Question the fate of the Netherlands is suspended. The king of Prussia negotiates a separate Peace: Spain and Sardinia in all probability must do the same: and the Emperor is so thoroughly exhausted that he is almost wholly disabled from continuing the war with any vigour; at the opening of the Campaign Britain and France, the Rome and Carthage of modern Times, will perhaps remain alone to terminate the present contest.
You have long before this heard of the Catastrophe of Robespierre in France; and of the pretence upon which he suffered. Since that time a party, styling themselves the moderates have hitherto maintained their ascendancy in Paris and in the Convention. They all join in loading the memory of Robespierre with every possible execration, and have transferred to him the appellation of the Tyrant; which had before been appropriated to the late king.—The horrible cruelty which has been so destructive at Lyons, in la Vendee, and in every part of the Republic; The sinking of thousands by boat-loads in the Loire, the shooting of thousands by pairs at Lyons and elsewhere; the murdering of thousands under the forms of Law, by the Guillotine, all is heaped upon Robespierre, with as much apparent detestation as every friend to humanity has really felt at these transactions.
A system of moderation has been pursued by the present ruling party. Very few have suffered by the Guillotine. the Commissioners in the several Departments have conducted themselves with lenity, and endeavoured to soothe and conciliate. Great numbers have been liberated from prison: The Convention has ordered that those remaining under arrest shall be immediately tried, or discharged; the disposition for mercy seems even extending to the wretched emigrants themselves; and though always accepted from the terms of capitulation granted to the several garrisons taken by the french troops, yet in one or two late instances, they have not been put to immediate Death.
But the violent party, are far from being crushed: in the Convention it still struggles; and by the Jacobins and most of the popular Societies it is still supported. A rupture between the Convention and the Jacobins has widened so much, that it must before long come to a crisis.—Such is the succession of anarchical factions which alternately bear sway in the centre, while at the borders all the armies of the Republic, with a combination of order and enthusiasm, of severe discipline, and irresistible impetuosity, pass from Victory to victory, and have actually almost laid the whole alliance of their enemies, prostrate at the feet of the Convention.
Britain however yet retains every appearance of continued hostility, and although the most determined partizans of the Ministry, venture to sigh openly for Peace, yet no man of any description appears to expect it. The War to every outward appearance is still popular, and the Administration since the Duke of Portland’s admission to it is said to be strong beyond all former example.
But the reins of Government have been drawn so tight here, that it would not be surprizing if they should break. Thirteen persons are to be tried for high-treason the next week. You will probably see in some of the late papers the Indictment upon which they have this day (Octr: 25) been arraigned: The trials are expected to take up a month, and there is much more agitation in the public mind, upon the subject, than appears. Loyalty at this moment is strong, and yet it is in terror; Opposition gnashes its teeth; but is silent or joins in the general cry. Suspicion, jealousy, and a want of mutual confidence betray themselves in the conduct and conversation of every one. These things are not heard; they are not seen: they can only be felt. In short the present state of Society in this Land of Freedoms has almost every mark of a severe despotism. But it is certainly an unnatural state of temper to this people, and it cannot continue long. A gentleman, conversing with me yesterday, upon the approaching trials said, "The treason is violently constructive, but it will do for this Time. I expect the prisoners will be found guilty: Hambden was found guilty: so were Russell and Sidney: so was Sacheverell: but it was remembered afterwards." I have heard nothing like this said by any Englishman (the Gentleman I speak of is an American) but I have seen many who I believe think as much or more.
As to the war, excepting their naval successes, they have only shared in the defeats of their allies, who are now all upon the point of leaving them. France will probably have the terms of Peace with them all at her own disposal, and will then turn all her attention towards the Sea. At this moment there is said to be a fleet of twenty seven ships of the line at sea from Brest about 100 leagues West of Scilly; ninety frigates have been built since the beginning of this year.—They have ten thousand british seamen now prisoners in France, and they will not exchange a man of them. The deficiency of men here for the navy, is of course, prodigious, and even the fleet under Lord Howe is not half-manned. It is however just gone to Sea again, and another action as terrible as that on the first of June, may be fought before the close of the year.
But for the future in this War, every advantage seems to be on the side of France. Their numbers are inexhaustible, and the loss of ten thousand men, has no other effect than that of calling out myriads more. Every thing that can be the subject of human possession, belongs to the Nation, and this maxim is most thoroughly reduced to practice. Of every species of property, and of human life, their prodigality exceeds the bounds of Imagination itself. They have no commerce to lose. They have a most inveterate animosity against this Nation; and above all they have to establish upon the Sea, a reputation to bear a parallel with that of their armies upon the Land.
On the other hand the resources of Britain are comparatively small. They will not want money. there does not appear the smallest suspicion of a deficiency on that score; and it is every where agreed that at this moment the Minister might command it to any amount. But their want of Seamen is without a remedy, and must increase greatly even by the most brilliant victories. Their commerce suffers severely, and the moment they lose their naval superiority must be annihilated. Strongly as they are bent upon the success of the war, and inveterate as they always are against the french they have not that enthusiasm which in France has levelled all the boundaries of private property, and put the whole mass of physical force in the Nation into the hands of the Government. They contend with an Enemy, whom repeated defeats will not discourage, but who would be irresistible after a single victory. In short, Sir, the situation of this Country, external and internal appears to be perilous, and its prospects gloomy in the extreme.
But I have already spun my letter to an immeasurable length, and will ask for no more of your time now except to assure you that I remain with every sentiment of duty and affection, your Son.
John Q. Adams.
P.S. Instead of thirteen persons to be tried for high treason, I find upon further enquiry, only nine; and instead of twenty-seven ships of the line now at Sea, from Brest, there are but fourteen. I had this last fact from an American Captain who fell in with them—


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Welsh, 6 November 1794
From: Welsh, Thomas
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Boston Novr: 6. 1794

I have the Pleasure to inform you that Mr Ames is reelected by a very respectable Majority of the Votes of this District and perhaps there never was a time when the Rights of Election were more fully improved or greater Exertions made. you will see by our Papers who the Persons were who stood in the Entry of Fanieul Hall to distribute the fæderal Votes. their party scream the Antifæderal were sanguine of their Success at the Commencement of Election. The Governor came himself to vote for Jarvis. He had a Vote offered him for Mr Ames which he refused and said aloud He is not the right Man.
Mr. Russell stood at the Door handing Votes. when the Governor came down he addressed Mr. Russell: Sr. how do the Votes go? He replied Mr Ames they tell me has a Majority of more than four Hundred; ah replied the Governor they will put the Cart before the Horse.
You will also see that Mr Dexter is reelected for the next District.
I am Sr with respect your humble St
Thomas Welsh


Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 9 November 1794
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

My dear Sir
The Hague November 9. 1794.

Under the present circumstances of affairs in this Country, I did not think it prudent to make any unnecessary delay in England, and accordingly left London on the 28th: of last month. Our passage to Helvoet was short though not agreeable; the packet being very much crowded with passengers. We were only three days from London to this place.
I had been told in England, that I should perceive fewer symptoms of War in this Country than I should leave behind me there, but I had no idea of finding every thing so perfectly quiet as it is. Excepting the course of conversation in Company, you would imagine yourself to be in a Land blessed with a profound Peace. No confusion; no agitation; no aggregations in the streets; no appearance of exertion. I had almost said no symptom from any part of the people, of feeling an interest in the fate of their Country. You remember Sir, how feeble the efforts of this people were when their war broke out with England in 1781. Yet at that time the active spirit of Liberty predominated. Patriotism was the popular idol, and the power which upon the whole, governed the Country rested much for its support upon the motives of public spirits. But now, that the reins of Government are held by a power, professedly founded upon mere force; a power, which has always been at war with public spirit, and considered patriotism as its deadly enemy; which has always dreaded enthusiasm, and discountenanced the amour sacré de la Patrie, you may judge what a state of lifeless imbecility characterizes the people even at a moment so full of danger and dismay as the present.
The Government meets with no internal resistance. The appearance of opposition lately made at Amsterdam, has been completely crushed, and the petitioners have tamely delivered up their arms at command. Van Staphorst has fled, and is safe at Hamburg. Visscher is in close confinement, and patriotism is again compelled to hide its head. This people I fear have lost that Energy of character which once so honourably distinguished them. Had there been a common share of spirit displayed by the petitioners at Amsterdam, the consequences I am informed would have been extremely different; but it was a struggle between Weakness and Impotence, in which the former can scarcely be said to have obtained the Victory, though the latter was certainly defeated. But passive obedience and non-resistance are one thing; and the warm, animated zeal, which is necessary for the defence of an invaded Country, the dauntless heart and the nervous arm, which inspired and directed by the enthusiasm of Liberty have heretofore performed miracles for the salvation of this as well as of other Countries, are another. The strength of the Government is sufficient to controul the inclinations of their adversaries within their walls, but it can hope nothing from their assistance. It can paralize their limbs but cannot arm them in its defence.
They have to contend with Enemies of a very different description. With Armies, powerful in numbers, under the most perfect discipline, and of uncontroulable impetuosity, and who pursue to the utmost every advantage they obtain.
There is another Circumstance, which has added to the extreme debility which has characterized the defence of their  country frontier against the present invasion. The length of time elapsed since this Country has been before engaged in a war by land, has removed all the officers of martial experience from their troops, but especially from the command of their fortified towns. The usual system of patronage and protection has conferred most of these places as sinecures upon favourites; and in the distribution of the places military merit has been deemed the most unnecessary and useless of all qualifications in the officer to be provided for. The benefit of the individual was the only consideration of importance, for as to the service required, where is the cowardice or stupidity, that can be inadequate, to the mere parade of a military Government in time of Peace?
But however suitable the post may be to the officer, in Peace, it seems the officer turns out very unsuitable to the post in War: so that when the day of trial comes, one Commander resigns, on account of his Health; another finds himself incapable to maintain his station from his old age. A third contrives means to be disgusted at some paltry pretence for taking offence; and a fourth without ceremony surrenders as soon as his command is invested. I am told that all these things have really happened; and the most bitter execrations are vented against the Prince of Hesse, the late Governor of Bois le Duc, for capitulating as he did. Treachery and cowardice are both very liberally imputed to him by the partizans of this Government; but I know not with how much foundation. A momentary popular odium is very often the lot of the best Officer when unfortunate, and at such a point of time the voice of the people is far from being infallible. The Commander at Bois le Duc may therefore have been fully justifiable in his surrender; but I have seen a Gentleman who was there at the time, and is very decidedly of a different opinion.
They are equally dissatisfied with the behaviour of their allies; particularly the British. The king of Prussia has abandoned the confederacy; and the Emperor will probably do the same. The English and Dutch troops cannot harmonize together, and the former have made themselves so obnoxious by plundering the Country they are employed to defend, that their assistance is more dreaded than the attacks of the Enemy.
What then must be the expectations of the ruling power here; with one half of their own people, exulting secretly at every Victory of their Enemies, and wishing to be conquered as a relief from oppression: with officers incapable of defending, their defensible posts, and with troops who fight bravely only against one another: with allies dayly forsaking them and associates whose assistance is a calamity. It seems to me clear beyond a doubt that their only remaining resource is Peace.
But before it can be ascertained whether even this resource will avail them, it is to be settled whether France will treat with them. The general opinion, the grounds of which I do not know, seems to be that she will, but separate from Great-Britain.
The patriotic party indeed imagine, and I may add they hope she will not. It is to me a new thing under the Sun, to see a people anxious to be conquered, and praying for the success of their enemies; though not indeed in the spirit of Christian humility. This phenomenon, now discovers itself more and more to my view. Since my arrival here the intelligence has been generally unfavourable to the Allies. The king of Prussia’s Peace is ascertained. Maestricht has capitulated, and Nimeguen is severely bombarded: at each of these several articles of news I have seen more than one Dutchman’s eyes sparkle with pleasure, and I have observed countenances to fall at the transient rumours of successful sallies from both those Towns, which have been invented and propagated to cheer the sinking Spirits of the Orange party.
But the french have hitherto shewn no distinction between the parties in their Treatment of the conquered towns. They have discovered no propensity to favour the patriots and no particular animosity to the others: all have fared alike, and all have fared well. Their property has all been subject to the requisition of the Republic; and has been paid for in Assignats, but otherwise I hear of no occasion of complaint that has been given them by their conquerors.
If this system, so full of wisdom and moderation should be pursued by the french Republic, and she should continue carefully to avoid any interference in the internal affairs of this Country, she will certainly make no scruple at treating with the present Sovereign, and the constituted Authorities by obtaining Peace, may still secure the continuance of their own existence.
The terms she will be disposed to grant, will no doubt be hard, and a separate Peace might be extremely disagreeable to the House of Orange in particular. But when the Question is reduced to the alternative of Death or amputation, there can be but little hesitation in the choice—
It becomes therefore very probable that in the course of the present Season a general peace except between France and Britain will take place; in which case the war for the future will probably be confined to the Sea, and the naval supremacy of the Island will be disputed more obstinately than it ever has been hitherto.
As the great object of political speculation at present is the proximity of Peace, I have dwelt upon the subject I fear even to tediousness. But in endeavouring to discover the position of the several parties, and the operation of interests at this moment from which you will be enabled to judge of the probable event much better than I can, I hoped you would excuse the minuteness which occasions my prolixity, as well as the freedom of my observations.
In my official correspondence with the Secretary of State, I feel a restraint owing perhaps to the natural awkwardness of novelty. The constant dread of committing some impropriety to the paper, prevents me from saying many things, which naturally flow from a confidential communication. If any facts or observations contained in my Letters to you, are in your opinion by any possible connection with the advantage of the public service, worthy of being known to the President, I have no doubt you will impart them to the Secretary of State. I have all possible confidence in him personally, and hope to acquire in time the habit of writing to him, with as much ease and freedom as is consistent with diplomatic decorum.
I took the liberty of sending you from London, a new publication strongly recommended to me by our friend Stockdale, but the character of which I do not know. He said it contained a great number of interesting particulars relative to our neighbours the Indian tribes, and I thought it would afford you some amusement at least. I hope you will have received it when this reaches you. By the first opportunity from Amsterdam you will also receive the little Treatise of Martens, from Dear Sir, / Your ever affectionate Son
John Q. Adams.


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Chittenden, 9 November 1794
From: Chittenden, Thomas
To: Adams, John

Sir
State of Vermont Novr. 9th. 1794

I have the honour to transmit to Congress a Copy of a Resolution of the Legislature of this State approving of and ratifying the Articles proposed by Congress as an amendment to the Constitution of the United States.
I am with sentiments of perfect esteem, Your Honour’s / most obedient and / very humble Servant
Thos. Chittenden


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Meredith, 12 November 1794
From: Meredith, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir
Treasury of the United States November 12th. 1794

My Account of Expenditures in the War Department for the quarter ending the 30th. June last having passed through the Offices, permit me, through you, to lay it before the Honorable the Senate;—My other Accounts are at present at the Treasury for Settlement; as soon as they are completed, they Shall be immediately forwarded for your Inspection.—
I have the Honour to / be With perfect Respect / Sir, / Your most humble servant

Saml MeredithTreas of the United States


Title: To John Adams from Joseph Priestley, 13 November 1794
From: Priestley, Joseph
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Northumberland Novr 13. 1794.

As I presume you are now at Philadelphia, and I have an opportunity of writing by a private hand, I take the liberty to trouble you with a line, to thank you for the attention you paid to my friend, for whom I gave letters of recommendation to you when I was in England, and to beg your acceptance of a few of my publications, which Mr. Dobson will have directions to deliver to you.  In them you will see my reasons for leaving England, and I hope you will approve of them.
You will see that I do not come hither from choice, and that I only wish to be quiet, and pursue my studies without interruption, with the few advantages that I can expect in this country. I came to this place with a view to a large settlement in which my son was concerned.  But being come hither, and having, at a great risk and expence, brought my library and Apparatus hither, tho that scheme has failed, I cannot remove any more.   I like this part of the country as well as, I believe, I should any other, and indeed living in any of your large towns would be more expensive that I could afford.  One of the greatest inconveniences I find here is the want of an easy communication with Philadelphia, which I hope will be remedied in time.
At one time I was apprehensive that I should find more disturbance here than I left in England; but I now hope that in consequence of the seasonable and vigorous exertion of goverment every thing will be quiet.  Such was the spirit of this place, or rather of the lower class of people, that my baker refused to supply me with bread because I was understood to be against the erection of the liberty pole in this town, tho I have made it a rule to take no part whatever in the politics of a country in which I am a stranger, and in which I only wish to live undisturbed as such.
It is possible that in the Spring I may take a journey, and get as far as Boston. If so, I shall be happy to wait upon you at your own house. In the mean time, I am, with the greatest respect, / Dear sir, / yours sincerely

J. Priestley.


Title: To John Adams from George Washington, 15 November 1794
From: Washington, George
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir,
Saturday 15th. Novr. 1794.

I have not been able to give the papers herewith enclosed, more than a hasty reading;—returning them, with out delay, that you may offer the perusal of them to whomsoever you shall think proper.—
The picture drawn in them, of the Genevese, is realy interesting & affecting.—The proposition of transplanting the members, entire, of the University of that place, to America, with the requisition of Means to establish the same,—and to be accompanied by a considerable emigration, is important; requiring more  consideration, than under the circumstances of the moment, I am able to bestow on it.—
That a national University in this country is a thing to be desired, has always been my decided opinion;—and the appropriation of ground, and funds for it, in the federal City, have long been contemplated, & talked of;—but how far matured;—or how far the transplanting of an entire Seminary of foreigners, Who may not understand our language, can be assimilated therewith is More than I am prepared to give an opinion upon.—or indeed, how far funds in either case, are attainable.—
My opinion with respect to emigration is, that except of useful Mechanic’s—and some particular descriptions of men—on professions—there is no need of extra: encouragement:—While the policy, or advantage of its taking place in a body (I mean the settling of them in a body) May be much questioned;—for by so doing they retain the language, habits & principles (good or bad) which they bring with them;—whereas, by an intermixture with our people, they, or their descendants, get assimilated to our customs, manners and laws:—in a word, soon become one people.—
I shall, at any leisure hour, after the Session is fairly opened, have pleasure in a full and free conversation with you on this subject, being with much esteem & regard / Dear Sir / Your Obedt. Servt
Go: Washington


Title: To John Adams from Edmund Randolph, 16 November 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Philadelphia Novr. 16. 1794

I could not resist the impulse of my long affection for Geneva, to postpone for a moment the papers, which you were so obliging as to send me last night. Its fate is truly afflicting and injurious to humanity.
The transplantation of its academy would fill up a vast chasm in the Education of the United States.  For I do not believe, that a complete system is to be found in any state, and I doubt, whether it could be collected even by piecemeal in all the states.
But what can be done? Congress have no lands at their disposal, on the South side of the Ohio. Science requires too many aids from civilized life to flourish on the north.  Or if it could flourish there, the position would be too remote for the great mass of the United States—Nor are these the only difficulties; for the questionable power of congress to make such a donation, and the crisis of the times, might perhaps restrain some of the warmest zealots for literature from gratifying the Genevese.
The ability of individual states to furnish lands, in a proper situation, is as little incompetent, as that of the United States; and the legislatures of some of them, not knowing the value of learning, would be disgusted with the project, as being, what they would call, an aristocratic establishment. It is possible too, that some of the best intentioned legislatures might entertain peculiar ideas of the policy of concentrating into one spot foreigners, whose ideas of government may differ widely from the spirit of our own, and whose talents must obtain a certain degree of ascendancy. Their defective knowledge of our language I consider, as no objection.
To the utmost of my faculties, I would welcome them to our country with the most zealous hospitality. But the assurances of individuals ought not to be calculated upon, when they have so much at stake, and are really of no importance in forwarding their extensive scheme. If there be individuals, who could cooperate with effect, they are Mr. Robert Morris, Mr. John Nicholson, and Mr. James Wilson of this city, who are proprietors of immense territories.
I am persuaded, however, that, if the professors of high character were to come over, some openings might be found in old academics; new professorships might perhaps be created; and perhaps new colleges might perhaps be raised; and thus they might be disposed of separately.  This must be the case, if they go into Germany; which is contemplated as the alternative asylum.
In so interesting an affair, as this, I never undertake to advise; but confine myself to facts. If however I were to offer an opinion for the consideration of Mr. D’Ivernois, it would be, to adopt a settlement in Pennsylvania or the Fœderal city, on the best terms, which can be obtained.  Farther south, than the one, or north than the other, would not, I think, satisfy his extensive views.  But if a distinct establishment be not in their his reach, let them open schools, under in different places, under the patronage, which will certainly be extended to them by the friends of humanity and science.
I have the honor to be dear sir, / with great respect & regard yr. mo. ob. sert.

Edm: Randolph


Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 17 November 1794
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

N. 3.
My dear Sir
Amsterdam November 17. 1794.

The day before yesterday, I had my Audience of the Stadtholder and delivered him my credentials. He enquired after you, mentioned the time of your arrival here and that of your acknowledgment and reception asked me if I was not here with you, and whether I did not study at Leyden.
Yesterday I came here by the Schuyts through Leyden and Haerlem; I had not been here an hour before I was informed that General Eustace, an American citizen, had been arrested in the morning by order of the magistracy, and that his papers had been seized, and sent to the Hague.
This day one of his friends here applied to me, requesting me to interpose in his behalf. Nothing exceptionable was found it seems among his papers, and he expects to be soon released.—I shall endeavour to see him to-morrow, but I do not see what service I can render him, and am under some embarassment how to conduct in respect to his situation. He has served as a general in the french service, since their war with this Country, but affirms that he resigned his command, and withdrew from their service immediately upon his receiving the President’s proclamation, declaring the neutrality of the United States.
Under these Circumstances there is certainly some plausible reason for the government here to assign in justification of themselves for arresting him; and I can only sollicit his release as an indulgence, even if nothing exceptionable should appear among his papers.
He is however as a Citizen of the United States, entitled to every proper exertion on my part, for securing to him the privileges of our neutrality, as far as he has not personally forfeited his right to them.
Since I wrote you last Nimeguen has capitulated, and the french troops have crossed the Wahal. The army that has been for two months employed in beseiging Maestricht is now released, and their next attack is expected to be directed against Breda and Geertreydenberg.
It is not certain that the king of Prussia has made a separate Peace, but he is of no service to the allies in this Country. A reinforcement of Austrians was expected, and had actually advanced into Guelderland; but have fallen back again. Whether from the apprehension of not being able to make the junction, or on account of negotiations supposed to be pending between the Emperor and France, is not ascertained.
In a very curious political memorial lately published, from the manuscripts found in the cabinet of Louis the 16th. a copy of which I shall send you, the writer speaking of Holland, says "Elle a peur de tout, souffre tout, se plaint de tout, et ne se garantit de rien." This is indeed a very exact description of her present situation. She fears every thing, and has every thing to fear. She suffers every thing; for between her allies and her enemies she finds scarcely any other difference than the name. She complains of every thing, for in every thing she has cause of complaint; and yet in the midst of all her distress and danger she guards against nothing. The Patriots, so called, scarcely conceal their wish to be conquered, and the partizans of the present Government curse their allies, but do not so much as lift a finger in their own defence.
They seem to think that an Orange cockade in their hats is equivalent to the most heroic self-devotion, and so far are they from thinking of any personal sacrifice or exertion, that they can scarcely be induced to lend a stuyver of their money. The Stadtholder some time since opened a loan for two or three millions of guilders; it has not filled even to the sum of five hundred thousand. I leave you to judge what is to be expected from such friendship as this.
I have seen one of the Messrs: Willinks’, and delivered to him your letter, together with the obligations and coupons, one of which, it seems, has drawn a prize of a thousand guilders in the last Lottery, as those Gentlemen have already written you.
I shall write again by an early opportunity, and in the mean time remain in all duty and affection your Son
John Q. Adams.


Title: From Commissioners of the Sinking Fund to United States Congress, 18 November 1794
From: Commissioners of the Sinking Fund
To: United States Congress

Philadelphia Novemr. 18th: 1794

The vice President of the United States and President of the Senate, the Chief Justice, the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Treasury and the Attorney General respectfully report to Congress as follows:
That pursuant to the act entitled “An Act making provision for the reduction of the Public Debt” and in conformity to resolutions agreed upon by them and severally approved by the President of the United States, they have since their report dated the sixteenth of december 1793, caused purchases of the said debt to be made through the agency of Samuel Meredith, to the amount of One hundred and thirty nine thousand and seventy-seven dollars and eighty eight cents, for which there have been paid in Specie One hundred thousand and sixty one dollars and seventy six cents.
That pursuant to the act entitled “an act supplementary to the act making provision for the debt of the United States” and in conformity to resolutions agreed upon by them and severally approved by the President of the United States, they have also caused purchases of the said debt to be made subsequent to their said report of the sixteenth day of december 1793, to the amount of One hundred and six thousand seven hundred and fifty dollars and thirty seven cents, for which there have been paid eighty five thousand eight hundred and thirty two dollars and ninety one cents in specie.
That the documents accompanying this report marked B, C, D & E, shew the aforesaid purchases generally and in detail, including the places where the times when, the prices at which and the persons of whom, the purchases were made.
That the documents marked A, shew the proceedings of the accounting officers of the Treasury in respect to the settlement of an account for the expenditure of fifty thousand dollars in purchases, which were stated in our former report, at the date of which the said settlement had not been completed.
That the purchases now and heretofore reported amount together to two millions two hundred and sixty five thousand and twenty two dollars & fifty seven cents, in Stock, for which there have been paid in Specie, one million five hundred and eighty one thousand three hundred and twenty three dollars and sixty seven cents, as will be more particularly seen by the document marked F.
On behalf of the Board John Adams


Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 18 November 1794
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir,
Amsterdam November 18. 1794.

The bearer, Major-General Eustace, after having served with great honor and reputation in the Armies of France, retired from that service on receiving the Presidents Proclamation, declaring the Neutrality of the United States, & is now upon his return to America.
It is with great pleasure that I introduce to your acquaintance, and recommend to your attentions a Gentleman of so much merit, and so capable of giving the most accurate and useful information, relative to the state of affairs, as well in France, as in this Country, where I wish he had more reason to be satisfyed with his reception.
I am Sir, very affectionately, your Son.


Title: From John Adams to Thomas Welsh, 19 November 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Welsh, Thomas

Dear Sir
Philadelphia Nov. 19 1794

I thank you for your kind Letter. The Elections in Massachusetts have done honour to the Principles and Dispositions of the People. The Error of my old Friend is no surprise to me, for although I knew his the Abhorence of Jarvis in his heart, I have lately seen his Versatility in so many Instances, that his Character, always Subtle  fine and and Slippery, is now become lubricated to a degree Susceptible of almost any Refinement in Casuistry. Old Cato Said "Corrupta civitate corruptio est licita"—others have Jona. Sewall Said from Mandeville I believe
When it is to combat Evil
’Tis lawful to employ the Devil.
I could never reconcile these Maxims to my Judgment or my Feelings. But I know a Man who always Seem’d to think, that the End Sanctified the Means. Was Boston understood to be the Horse and Dedham the Cart? or was the State Government the Horse and the federal Government the Cart? or was the Town the Horse & the Country the Cart? To Day We shall have the Presidents Speech. I hope We shall have a peaceable Session. Rebellion is not the Ton, for the Moment, nor is War a la mode, in this Country.
The Sour Fog that I see in the Street and feel even here at my Fireside, almost gives me the Ague. I will never vote again for meeting before the Constitutional Day. A London November is not more Suicidical. All the World on Mountains and in Valleys, in Plains and Cities have had the Ague this Way. Oh that I was out of the Region of it.
I Salute your Fireside & am / as ever
J.A.


Title: To John Adams from Petrus Franco van Berckel, 19 November 1794
From: van Berckel, Petrus Franco
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Philada. Novb. 19th. 1794.

In Consequence of Your recommandation of Mr. John Green, I have furnished him with a Letter of introduction to the Governor of Surinam requesting Him to do in behalf of Mr. Green, whatever his duty and the laws which He is obliged to maintain, will admit of.—At all events I have no doubt but the Governor will assist him with His best advice.
Being happy to be serviceable to an honest Man, I feel at the same time a gratification in having it in my power to assist a person recommended by You.—
I have the honor to be very respectfully / Sir, / Your very humble and / Most Obt. Servant.

F: P: van Berckel


Title: To John Adams from Jan Willink, 20 November 1794
From: Willink, Jan,Willink, Wilhem
To: Adams, John

Sir!
Amsterdam 20 Novr. 1794

We rec’d with pleasure your respected favor of 12 Sepr: by your Son John Quincy Adams Esqr: & heartily congratulate your Excelly on his nomination, We shall always esteem ourselves happy to manifest the Regard we entertain for you, & endeavour to concile ourselves yr: Sons friendship: & to conserve yours to which we Recommend ourselves.—
We have exchanged your 20 Obl: and conform your direction handed five Obl: to Mr. J: Q. Adams five Do: to him as Trustee to his Brother Mr: Charles & five to Mr. Thomas Boylston Adams, keeping the five remainder subject to your orders.—
Inclosed please to find yr: acc: by whh. a ballance is Due to us ƒ 176.13. which we’ll find out of the first Coupons Falling due—You’ll observe we charge therein the Amount of two Obl: of the Bank of the U.S. procured for you.—
We give yr: Excelly the pleasing Intelligence of a prize of ƒ 1000 Drawn on your Obl: of the 4 PC. Loan No. 1023. for which an Obl: will be procured for you, not Doubting but the whole management is to yr: satisfaction.—
Please to receive the assurance of our sincere Regard & esteem with whh we have the honor to be / sir / your Excells. most Obt. & Humble Servants
Wilhem and Jan Willink


Title: From John Adams to Thomas Jefferson, 21 November 1794
From: Adams, John
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir
Philadelphia Nov. 21, 1794

I am desired by our old Acquaintance Mr D’Ivernois to transmit you the inclosed Papers for your inspection Opinion and Advice.  The poor Fellow has been obliged to fly a Second time into Banishment. The first time, he was driven out as a Democrat: but it is now, Day about, as they Say, in Geneva, and he is compelled to run, as an Aristocrat.
Shall We print his History? What Shall We do with his Academy?
I have Spent my Summer So deliciously in farming that I return to the Old Story of Politicks with great Reluctance. The Earth is grateful. You find it so, I dare say.  I wish We could both say the Same of its Inhabitants.
When will the Crisis of this fever in human Nature be over, and in what State of Health will it be left? Solitudinem faciunt, Libertatem appellant.
Virginia I hope will send Us Some good Senators, we grow very thin. I begin to think the Senate Scarcely numerous enough for so large a People. But this is not a time for Changes: We must go on as well as we can. Make my Compliments, if you please to your Daughters, whom I had once the Pleasure to see, and for whom I retain much Esteem. I am, sir / with great Regard, your / most obedient
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from John Jay, 21 November 1794
From: Jay, John
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
London 21 Nov. 1794

From the Day of my appointment to this mission, my Attention has been much withdrawn from my friends, and confined to the Business which brought me here; & which has at last been terminated by a Treaty.  In future I shall have more Leisure to attend to my Friends, and to my own affairs—
Both your sons arrived here in good Health.  I wrote to my friend John lately, but as yet have not had a Letter from him.  I ascribe this to his Prudence. In such Times and under such Circumstances much ought not to be written.—Holland is in a sad way—
It may seem extraordinary, but the fact appears to me to be, that this Nation has never been more united in any War than in this.  Circumstances may press them to listen to Propositions of Peace, but not without Reluctance.  If the War should continue, I think we may easily avoid being involved in it.
I write in too much haste to make this Letter interesting, by Remarks on the Treaty—They might be entertaining, but to you not necessary—
With sincere Esteem and Regards / I am Dear Sir / Your friend & hble Servt.

John Jay


Title: To John Adams from Edmund Randolph, 21 November 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Adams, John

(Private)Dear SirPhiladelphia Novr. 21. 1794.

I am extremely unwilling, that the department of state should become the vehicle of letters to congress, the contents of which may be improper, and the authors of which perhaps ought to have addressed themselves to the executive, rather than the legislature. Inclosed are two sealed letters, which have been forwarded to the President. He cannot open them, because they are addressed to the members of congress; nor ought they, at a hazard, to be transmitted thro’ him.  Be so good, as to favor me with your opinion, what shall be done with them; and to believe me to be / with great respect and esteem / Dear sir / yr. mo. ob. serv.

Edm: Randolph


Title: From John Adams to George Washington, 22 November 1794
From: Adams, John,United States Senate
To: Washington, George

Sir:
22 November 1794

We receive with pleasure your speech to the two Houses of Congress. In it we perceive renewed proofs of that vigilant and paternal concern for the prosperity, honor, and happiness of our country, which has uniformly distinguished your past administration.
Our anxiety arising from the licentious and open resistance to the laws in the western counties of Pennsylvania, has been increased by the proceedings of certain self-created societies, relative to the laws and administration of the government—proceedings, in our apprehension, founded in political error, calculated, if not intended, to disorganize our Government; and which, by inspiring delusive hopes of support, have been influential in misleading our fellow-citizens in the scene of insurrection.
In a situation so delicate and important, the lenient and persuasive measures which you adopted, merit and receive our affectionate approbation. These failing to procure their proper effect, and coercion having become inevitable, we have derived the highest satisfaction from the enlightened patriotism and animating zeal with which the citizens of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia, have rallied around the standard of Government, in opposition to anarchy and insurrection.
Our warm and cordial acknowledgments are due to you, sir, for the wisdom and decision with which you arrayed the militia to execute the public will; and to them, for the disinterestedness and alacrity with which they obeyed your summons.
The example is precious to the theory of our Government, and confers the brightest honor upon the patriots who have given it.
We shall readily concur in such farther provisions for the security of internal peace and a due obedience to the laws, as the occasion manifestly requires.
The effectual organization of the militia, and a prudent attention to the fortifications of our ports and harbors, are subjects of great national importance, and, together with the other measures you have been pleased to recommend, will receive our deliberate consideration.
The success of the troops under the command of General Wayne, cannot fail to produce essential advantages. The pleasure with which we acknowledge the merits of that gallant general and army, is enhanced by the hope that their victories will lay the foundation of a just and durable peace with the Indian tribes.
At a period so momentous in the affairs of nations, the temperate, just, and firm policy that you have pursued, in respect to foreign Powers, has been eminently calculated to promote the great and essential interest of our country, and has created the fairest title to the public gratitude and thanks.,
JOHN ADAMS,Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate


Title: To John Adams from Moses Robinson, 22 November 1794
From: Robinson, Moses
To: Adams, John

Saterday Novr 22d 1794.

Mr Robinson Respectfully presents his Compliments to the Vice President with Information that he is So unwell by Reason of taking a Suden Cold. he is not able to attend the Senate to day—


Title: To John Adams from John Jay, 24 November 1794
From: Jay, John
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
London 24 nov. 1794—

I wrote you a few Lines last week—This Morning I was favored with two Letters from your Son of the 14 & 20th. of This Month—Parents are gratified by hearing of or from Their children—The former Letter was Dated at The Hague—The latter at amsterdam—He had been recd. and acknowledged by The States General, and on the 14th had “a gracious audience of The Stadtholder.”—In his last Letter there is This Paragraph—“It is here said That on The Meeting of Parliamt. The King of Great Britain is to mention in The Speech from The Throne, The Signature of a Convention for the Settlemt. of The Differences with america.  This Intelligence is extremely grateful to The Merchants engaged in the american Commerce here, who are anxiously sollicitous for the Event of your Negociation; and whose Curiosity is proportionable to Their anxiety”—Before your Son left us I submitted to his Consideration the Draft of The Treaty, as it Then stood—
with real Esteem and Regard I am / Dear Sir / Your Friend & Servt

John Jay—


Title: To John Adams from Giuseppe Ceracchi, 25 November 1794
From: Ceracchi, Giuseppe
To: Adams, John

Home Tuesday Morning 25 Novber. 1794

Mr Ceracchi’s respectfull compliments to the Wise President, and takes the Liberty to beg him to present the annexed Medal to Mrs: Adams, he hopes that this Respectable Lady in honor him with her acceptance, will tink it as a very small degree of the high estime that he intertones for the sobjet reppresented in the Medal, as well as for his family.


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Pinckney, 25 November 1794
From: Pinckney, Thomas
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir,
25 Nov. 1794

I inclose to you a letter received under Cover from Colo: Humphreys and with it another for Baron Munchhausen which you will oblige me by forwarding by Post to its Address.
I am with sincere regard / My dear Sir / truly yours

Thomas Pinckney


Title: To John Adams from William Vernon, 25 November 1794
From: Vernon, William
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Newport Rhode–Island 25th Novemr. 1794

I hope the Length of Time since I had the Honor of paying my Respects to you, will be no Objection to your granting my present Request, that is of great Consequence to me—
In the Month of May last I had a Concern in the Ship Ascention, Saml. Chase Master, which enter’d the Harbour of the Havanna with 198 Negroes, where they were sold, principally upon a long Credit, to the Amount of upwards of 23,000 Dollars and the said Ship return’d Home to Newport in July—therefore it is become absolutely necessary to send the Ship back, in Order to receive Payment for this large Sum, in Molasses, and the other Produce of the Island—
The Owners of the Ship think that she will not be permitted to enter the Port without a special Licence from their Excellencys, the Commissioners from the Court of Spain to the United States of America; In Order to obtain that Permission they present a Memorial to their Excellencys, which I have taken the Liberty to inclose; and hope through your kind Influence it will be granted—
The Bearer, Captn Joseph Gardner, we have sent especially upon this Occasion, to whom we have given the Merchants Acct. Sales and Acct. Currt. at the Havanna, to produce as Vouchers to our Petition.—As the Ship goes empty we would offer to carry One Thousand or Five Hundred Barrels of Flour for the Government, at the very lowest Freight; and as the Season is too far advanced to send the Ship to New York or Philadelphia, we will be at the Expence of freighting said Flour from New–York to Newport.—If this may be thought serviceable in obtaining the Permission we will chearfully comply therewith.—Captn. Gardner will pay any Expence that may arise on this Affair.
I am with every possible Regard and Respect / Your most obedient, & / most humble Servant

Wm. Vernon
P.S. I was inadvertently drawn into this Adventure, and shall think my self happy, in obtaining my Property again, which is too much to loose.

WV.


Title: To John Adams from Donald Fraser, 29 November 1794
From: Fraser, Donald
To: Adams, John

Sir—
New York Novr. 29th 1794—

The bearer, Mrs: Fraser, will deliver you a copy of the Second impression of the “Young Gentleman & Lady’s Assistant.” A work which You were, originally pleased pleased to countenance with Your Subscription; and now, in its improved state, appears honored with Your approbation.
It is highly gratifying to me, to have this Small attempt, to promote the interest of the rising age, patronized with you by Such an illustrious Character;—whose name will be long remembered, with applause, in this Enlightend land of Liberty! Where, virtue, talents, & Patriotism alone entitle men to places of public trust & honor.—
Accept Sir,—of my most hearty thanks, for Your polite condescendsion, on this & a former occasion;—that You may long very long, continue, to merit, & receive, the confidence & approbation, of Your Enlightened fellow Citizens—Is the Sincere wish of Sir, / Your most obedient & obliged / humble Servant—

Donald Fraser


Title: To John Adams from Joseph Priestley, 29 November 1794
From: Priestley, Joseph
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Northumberland Nov 29 1794

You are indeed very kind in expressing your wish to hear from me when all I can do is to ask favours. As You mention your readiness to assist me with respect to arrangements in the Post Office, I will take the liberty to inform you of our situation in that respect.
The state Post goes no farther than from Philadelphia to Reading, and Mr Williamson of the Genasee undertakes to carry the letters farther. Between both we now pay 1.6 sd for a single letter, and 1 ½ Cent for a News paper; whereas a while ago the former charge was 1 s, and the latter 1 Cent. Besides the Post Master at Reading is much complained of for inattention to the duties of his place, and to my certain experience justly.
Now I am persuaded that if the state would undertake to bring the letters to this place, if the post was regular, and the charge moderate, it would answer very well.  At present the charge is so high, and the conveyance so uncertain, and tedious, that all persons take every opportunity of sending letters by private hands; when, if the case was different, they would all prefer the regular post.  But tho there should for the present be some loss to the state, it would not be of long continuance, and the gain in one place should compensate for the loss in another.  Could we have a Coach or a coachée, to carry parcells, and passengers, as well as letters, it would be a great convenience and benefit to the country, and in time would pay for any reasonable expence attending it.  We sometimes talk of petitioning the legislature on the subject.  Could you give us any assistance in the business, you would confer a great obligation on me who am so much interested in the conveyance of letters and small parcells.
It is, indeed, Sir as you observe an aweful crisis in which we live.  What I think on the subject you will see in the Sermon to which I referred you.  One extreme naturally produces another.  But I flatter myself that since truth and right have a great advantage over their opposites, the present conflict of opinions, and of arms, will terminate in a better system than any that has hitherto prevailed.  But the struggle I fear will be extensive and dreadful. Happy they who, looking to an overruling providence, can calmly wait the issue, endeavouring to lessen prejudice and violence on all sides, and contribute what they can to enlighten the minds, and improve the morals of their fellow creatures.
With the greatest respect, I am, / Dear Sir, / your sincerely

J. Priestley