Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to John Quincy Adams, 24 August 1798
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Adams, John Quincy

            My dear Brother
            Friday 24 August 1798. Dresden—

          I have this morning received your letter of the 18th: with the enclosure from Mr: Pitcairn. My letter to Mrs: Adams of the 17th: under cover to you, must have reached you in course— By the last post I sent her some little sketches or drawings of the neighbourhood of this place, but I can now assure her that the originals are incomparably finer than the copies.
          Since you condescend to ask for some account of my tour before my return—I will condescend to gratify you, though I did not intend to write again.
          During the first days after my arrival the weather was unfavorable for any excursions out of the City, we therefore visited the several

curiosities within the town— Such as the Elector’s library—collection of China & porcelain—Cabinet of Antiques; & on Sunday the Catholic chappel, where we saw the Elector & family and heard mass— the music was fine (I dare say,)— On Monday we visited the Fortress of Köenigstein—a superb thing—worth the trouble & expence of the whole journey from Berlin— We met there a company of Poles, gentlemen & ladies with whom we soon became acquainted & passed the time very pleasantly with them. One of them, an intelligent young man, acted as interpreter to us, as he spoke German & french with fluency, & assisted us much in understanding the history of the fortress & its neighborhood detailed by our Conductor— To reach this place it is necessary to pass through Pyrna, memorable as the first place of encampment for the Saxon Army at the beginning of the 7 years war. The heigths above the town where the Saxon camp was pitched, command a vast & beautiful prospect, but when you are upon the top of the fortress at the distance of a german mile only, this eminence dwindles to the appearance of a perfect plaine. The fortress answers the purpose of a State prison, but there are at present only two prisoners there, not at all under rigid confinement. After passing in review every thing within the fort & contemplating the magnificent scenery around it, we descended to a vilage at its foot & in company with three of the poles took passage in a boat & descended the Elbe. The River is at this place reduced to very narrow limits— Its bed is paved with rocks, none of which however were visible, because the abundant rains of the last week have swelled its waters and concealed the heads of them. The colour of the water resembled copper, occasioned by the contributions to it from the mountains of Bohemia. Our descent was little more rapid than the current of the river, which gave us time to admire the elevated borders, which on one side are composed of enormous rocks—abrupt, craggy, fantastic, and in many places highly picturesque. The ruins of two Castles, once the residence of robbers, who laid under contribution all the river passengers and infested the neighboring Country, which had been pointed out to us from the Fortress, we were now enabled to approach and it would be difficult to conceive a ruder scene of nature or a place of more dangerous & difficult access— We had not time to go on shore here & therefore missed much of the singular wildness which the place affords. We returned however satisfied & delighted with what we had seen.
          Tuesday we devoted to the picture gallery— The sky was clear and

we skimmed the surface with much pleasure & gratification, but Mr: Kent wanted some one of your patience—taste & talent at criticism to accompany him, book in hand, in order to ascertain the merit of the collection— In one remark we agreed—That the Flemish is superior here to the Italian School— There are wonderfully fine paintings in both, but the Italian Originals are scarce. I believe you would be highly entertained in this Gallery.
          On Wednesday we made an excursion to the valley of Tharand, a place at 2 german miles distance from hence, situated upon a small but very interesting stream called the Weiseritz. The road to it is through another valley called Plauen, equally pleasant. Our principal employment for this day consisted in ascending & descending hills, which command wide prospects over a variegated country. I cannot describe to you the different objects that engaged our notice, but we thought ourselves well recompensed for the fatigue they cost us. We proceeded after dinner to Freyburg two miles further where we passed the night & yesterday morning visited the Silver & lead mines belonging to the Elector at that place. Mr: Jarrett & myself, in the garb of the tenants of mother earth’s inmost recesses, descended 500 feet below the surface—saw the workmen employed— the vast machinery for extracting the water & another for raising the ore—&ca: We were gone two hours before we again saw the light of the Sun, and yet we only descended half the depth. Some of the ladders are nearly an hundred steps before you reach a landing & for the most part quite perpendicular. I found the ascent most tedious & difficult, but when I first entered, the noise of the waters & the rumbling of the machinery, alarmed me more than I wished. We heard several explosions or blasts while we were in the mine and we came out about five or six hundred yards from where we entered. After this we went to the Smelting or amalgamating house, & saw the several processes of the ore to prepare it for coining &ca: we returned to dinner at Freyburg & to Dresden at night. I have not yet satisfied my curiosity and shall therefore stay some days longer. I really wish you could make a journey hither, for I am sure nothing would afford greater satisfaction than the various scenes about this town. The climate & air cannot but be healthy and the exercise which the little excursions oblige you to take, keeps ones spirits in tone, far above the sands of Brandenburg—
          Messrs: K & J— desire to be remembered— they are my constant companions— Mr: C— amuses himself in his own way— The magnet

of his attachment is not Dresden proper. It is not even attached to the soil, but may be transported at pleasure & would render Leipzig or Berlin, perhaps equally delightful. Accident discovered this secret to me, otherwise I should not feel at liberty to make such an allusion—
          I am with best love to Mrs: Adams / your brother

            Thomas B Adams


Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to Abigail Adams, 14 September 1798
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Adams, Abigail

            My dear mother.
            Berlin 14th: of September 1798.

          Your kind favor of July 19th. was transmitted from Hamburg by our cousin Welsh & came to hand last evening. He had a pleasant passage of 38 days and will come on here as soon as he is a little recruited.
          We had already received your letter of the 14th: informing of his intended embarkment in a short time, and I have made my arrangements in consequence to be off as soon as the Elizabeth letter of Marque shall be ready for sea, having written to Mr: Pitcairn to take passage for me on board of her. By my last letter to you, (towards the last of July) perhaps you may be led to expect me rather sooner than I shall actually arrive. When that was written I had thoughts of taking passage on board a neutral vessel, then nearly ready for sea, but the news we received from home in the interval determined me to renounce this project & wait for an armed vessel of our own nation. It seemed, with me, to be even a point of honour, not to desert my Country’s flag, because it was in danger; but even a submissive & tame neutral appeared preferable to the defenceless merchantment under our Colours. At length however an occasion presents itself, such as I should chuse, except that our force is rather less than one could wish. The Elizabeth carries 12 Guns & 40 Men, but if the Captain is hearty in the cause—equal force will not take us.
          I am sorry to find by your account, that N. York proves deficient in public spirit or even inferior to its neighbours. I had calculated otherwise— But if we must have french tories as formerly we had british, New York, has certainly a prior right to the honor of containing them—if precedent in this respect confers a title.
          I have remarked with pleasure, that the thermometer of my feelings upon the subject of our national interests & concerns was not an incorrect indication of the degree of temper, which a full

knowledge of our wrongs would raise among our fellow citizens. I foretold also, that the general politics of Pennsylvania would eventually be right, though I confess, that since this prophecy was uttered, there has been abundant reason to think it desperate. A federal Governor & Chief Justice would keep that State invariably true in its politics— But perhaps “Tom the Tinker” does pretend to such a reputation, in these times— I give the credit of it, if it be so, to his son in law—a worthy & spirited lad, with whom I will be better acquainted, please God I get safe home. Of all the descendents & heirs of the old Pennsylvania Patriots, I have marked him out as one (I hope not the only one), in whom the father’s soul survives. There must be others, whom time and events will bring to light. They cannot conceal themselves in such times as these, for to distinguish them from the degenerate race who court & covet a foreign or a french master, is as easy as to distinguish truth & loyalty from deceit & hypocrisy, or an honest man from a Jacobin.
          The farce is yet kept up by the french Directory relative to their pacific and friendly dispositions towards us (our people)—they have most graciously & condescendingly & gratuitously & lovingly, and abundance of more ly’s raised the Embargo upon our vessels. How many were there & to whom did they belong? The number was hardly sufficient to warrant the name of an embargo, & the vessels chiefly belong to their dearest friends in America. At whose instance has it been raised? As a compliment to the mission of Dr: Logan—(a villain & a traitor to his Country) patronized & recommended if not deputized, by a brother philosophical letter writer, whom I once designated as “liable to be seized with the disorder so common to his inmates & companions, that of betraying his Country’s trust.” In times like these open hatred, publicly expressed, may be indulged with decency when such characters are the objects. This very Extraordinary Envoy arrived a few days too late, for he missed meeting another extraordinary Envoy, who had set sail before he could get to Paris. Miraculous departure! Had an interview taken place, the sage of Cambridge might have been terrified into a new negociation by a fresh menace of rupture. This said Doctor I am inclined to suppose will need the benefit of an amnesty to restore him to his friends & employers. Who knows, but that at this moment, like another Citizen Ochs, he is framing a new Constitution for the United States and securing for himself a seat in the Directory?
          Since the date of my last letter, I have made a short & delightful excursion to Dresden and visited all the curiosities of that town &

its neighborhood, of which I shall be happy to give you an oral description. At present I shall only observe, that knowing the beauties of the place, I should have been mortified to have left the Country without seeing them.
          In the hope of meeting you, my father & friends before another chistmas, I remain my dear mother with the warmest affection / Your Son

            T. B. Adams.


Title: Louisa Catherine Adams to Ann Johnson, 27 September 1798
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine
To: Johnson, Ann

            My Dear Nancy
            Berlin Sept. 27th. 1798

          Although I wrote you a long letter last Week I cannot resist the present opportunity though I confess I have nothing to say that will even be worth your reading—
          I ought perhaps to appologise for my last. upon reflection I see the impropriety of having addressed myself to you on a subject which could only prove unpleasant to you and tend to make you a party in my troubles I am sincerely grieved for having done it and I trust you will excuse my want of thought as I really suffered very much at the time of writing both my last letters and scarcely know what I said to either yourself or Mama—
          I was last evening at one of the princesses who is extremely kind to me she has seen me but once since my illness and told me last night she was quite surprised to find me look so well and likewise grown quite fat but though I hear this from many people I do not think I have yet recovered my looks sufficiently to sit for my picture but indeed I have looked so ill and ugly ever since I have been married that I have avoided sending the one Mama desired you know I am very proud therefore it would not suit me to have a picture worse than common—
          I told you when I began I had nothing to say I shall therefore only desire you to offer to my cousin and accept yourself the sincere love of your friend and Sister

            Louisa C. Adams


Title: John Quincy Adams to Charles Adams, 29 September 1798
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Charles

            My dear Brother.
            Berlin 29. September 1798.

          I have given to our brother Thomas a general power of Attorney to transact all business on my behalf within the United States. I have therefore to request you to account with him for all my property in your hands amounting to four thousand dollars, and the interest upon that sum, for more than two years, as appears by your letters to me, and by information from Doctor Welsh, that you have made no payment to him on my account, since the year 1796.— You will deliver to our brother Thomas all bonds, mortgages, notes or other evidences that you have taken in my name or on my account, and his receipt shall be your discharge.
          Fifteen months have elapsed since I received a line from you.
          I am your affectionate brother

            John Q. Adams.


Title: Louisa Catherine Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 6 October 1798
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine
To: Adams, Thomas Boylston

            Berlin October 6th 1798

          You cannot concieve Mr. Adams’s disappointment on opening your letter and finding it directed to me I was so agreeably surprized that I absolutely kissed it. would to heaven we could have you back again I did not think I should have felt the loss of your society so much but we really are not like the same family as for your brother I never saw him so much affected at anything in my life I fear it will be a long time before he becomes reconciled to your departure. he seldom mentions you without tears in his eyes I flatter myself it will not be long ere we meet again though Mr: A. has not written to be recalled as I told you. he burnt the letter to oblige me I hope some fortunate circumstance will happen to enable him to return home without the necessity of writing to be recalled—
          I will not trouble you any longer with my nonsense as I know you had rather be excused from recieving any letters from me—
          I have only seen Bell Brown since you left us I wont tell you how much she grieves at the absence of a certain person for fear they should be vain she has desired me to recall her to your remembrance with the rest of the family. Odieu and believe me your truly affectionate Sister

            Louisa C. Adams


Title: Hannah Phillips Cushing to Abigail Adams, 8 October 1798
From: Cushing, Hannah Phillips
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dear Madam
            Hendricksons October the 8th. 1798.

          By letters received from Boston I was grieved to learn that you had been very ill. It would give me great pleasure to hear, that your health is perfectly restored. We have been roving to & from, since we had the pleasure of meeting you. We reached Philadelphia the 5th. of August & left it the 9th.; Court sitting only three days as the alarm of the prevailing fever had in that time become general. We returned to Middletown & passed the time with our Friends till the 22nd. of Sepr. when we departed for Trenton, where Mr Cushings Circuit begins; as the middle one falls to his lott. To avoid N York we crossed White plains to Dobb’s ferry, which is 26 miles above the City; & after staying there two nights without being able to cross, the wind continuing very high we went up 20 miles further to Kings ferry at Verplanks point where the river is not so wide & the boats better & after waiting there also two nights we safely passed the ferry, rejoicing as though we had been released from prison. Here we were reminded of some of the scenes of our revolution. On this side was Stony point where we landed, where Waine exhibited some traits of his boldness; on the other, a Mountain, on which Genl. Washington made his head quarters, with a natural Sofa on the top, which was shewn me by Mrs Verplank; 12 miles above is West point where Arnold turned traitor & a mile or two below, lay the Frigate which took him off—to his reward. The inhabitants on the other side

appear’d to be as ignorant of the Country on this, as I am of that beyond the Atlantick. Four miles from the ferry we came through the Clove, a notch of a small Mountain, & then had a good road through a fine cultivated country inhabited by Dutch people residing in stone houses one story high. They ride in open waggons. We met 19, containing whole families, going to meeting at Tappawn a small village 18 miles below Kings ferry. Thirteen miles further down is Hackensack, a hansome town near the head of the river of the same name. Thirteen more carry us in a straight, level, pleasant way, bordering on the extensive meadow of the Hackensack, to Newark. From Middletown here the inhabitants of N York were scattered & we some times found it difficult to be accommodated. Trenton is crouded with the Citizens of Philadelphia so much that we have taken up our residence here for some days. I have been in town once to see Mrs Pickering who was solicitous of my spending a few days there; & Mr Furman a neighbour offering us a room we intend to accept of it. Court sat only two days. The Grand Jury found three inditements for seditious words. One person only was taken who pleaded guilty, for saying somewhat like this—that if the French came he would join them & fight for a shilling a day, & would deliver up any that were inimical to them—& for D——g the P— &C. For which he was fined but forty dollars, being very poor. Judge Paterson is on the Eastern Circuit & is now at Vermont. What will become of the Southern I know not, as that was assigned to poor Judge Wilson. We hope however that Judge Iredel will attend the Court in N Carolina at least. The death of Mr Anthony (as also many others) is very much regreted. He discovered a nobleness of soul in declining to stand a candidate for Congress, when the Federal intrest would be divided by it. We expect to leave Trenton by the 19th. for Dover in the State of Deleware, where the Court is to sit the 27th.. From thence to Baltimore & lastly to Richmond; pleasing ourselves with the idea of passing a day or two with our good Genl. & Mrs Washington on our way. We hope the President enjoys good health. Please to present Mr Cushings respects with mine to him. My love to Mrs Smith & tell her that we had the pleasure of breakfasting with Col. Smith, the morning after we saw her & also of dining with him on our return from Philadelphia. I wish to be remember’d affectionately to Mrs Cranch Mrs Otis & Miss Smith.—
          To hear of your health & happiness my dear Madam next to that of seeing you will always give pleasure to your friend—

          After so long a time we hear that Mr Gerry is safely landed in England.


Title: Margaret Allison Caldwell McHenry to Abigail Adams, 8 October 1798
From: McHenry, Margaret Allison Caldwell
To: Adams, Abigail

            Dear Madam
            Trenton Octbr: [8] 1798

          It was with the greatest concern I heard of your late illness, since which time I have felt very sollicitous to hear of your recovery, & hoped before this to have had that gratification— I therefore was greatly disappointed, when Mr McHenry told me a day or two since, that you were still indisposed.— this information so contrary to my wishes is the cause of my troubling you with this letter for which I flatter myself I need make no apology. The experience I have already had of your politeness & kind attentions could not fail to excite in me the greatest attachment and respect. Indeed my dear Madam I beleive I should feel those sensations towards you in an equal degree were you in a private situation & I had the advantage of your acquaintance, Yet were I to say that your station has no influence on the mind I should perhaps say too much, but the qualities necessary to fill that station with propriety which you so happily possess, renders it more respectable & of course your attentions the more flattering to those who have the pleasure to receive them. I have however wandered from my first intention which was meerly to express the great desire I have to hear of the restoration of your health as there is no information I could receive that wou’d give me more real pleasure. perhaps I may have that satisfaction thro’ Mr. McHenry should the President have occasion to write to him soon will you be kind enough to request him to mention the state of your health, for I wou’d not by any means were you even recovered, wish you to take the trouble to write yourself for this purpose.
          You have been informed that the Officers of Government moved with their families to this Town in August.— it has afforded us a safe refuge from the prevailing calamitous dissease of our unhappy City! but the dreadful necessity of flying suddenly with our families from danger, & all the inconveniencies we experience in consequence, are really very disagreeable & make us look forward to the time of returning to our respective homes with impatience— It will give you pleasure to hear that Mrs: Pickering & Mrs: Harrison are well & Mrs. Wolcott much better within a month past— she is still with her friends at Litchfeild Mr. Wolcott propoposes to go there next week & bring her this far on her way to Philadelphia—
          Will you be so kind as to Present my best respects to the President

my affectionate compliments to Miss Smith & beleive me with the greatest respect dear Madam yours sincerely

            M. McHenry


Title: John Quincy Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 12 October 1798
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Thomas Boylston

            My dear Brother.
            12. October 1798.

          We have received and been entertained with your letters from Dessau, Magdeburg and Brunswic.— We hope to hear from you, to day or to-morrow, at Hamburg, where upon your arrival, you must have found abundance of letters, either to, or for you.
          You ask for news; but you are now so much nearer the sources of all the important news, that it must rather come from you to us, than go from us to you.
          Buonaparte, is neither dead, nor like to die— The newspapers may say about him what they will. That there has been great sickness in his army might be presumed, without positive intelligence— But as it is unquestionable that he is in possession of Alexandria, and of Cairo, there can be no danger of his starving, and as little of his being overcome by Turks or Egyptians, Arabs or Mammalukes.
          Here, all goes on with us according to the old routine— We have been out since you went away, only to the Princess Henry’s, and to Bellevue— The Princess Ferdinand desired me to request you upon your return home, to present her compliments to General Washington; for whose character she has a great esteem.
          We have not been to Charlottenburg since you left us; but Mrs: A. is gone there this morning. And we have scarcely once seen any of Dr: Brown’s family; who when they come to town, have not time to call.— They miss you very much.— I have heard, but not directly from them, that William has obtained a Lieutenant’s Commission.
          We have had no letters from America since your departure— The public accounts announce the yellow fever again at Philadelphia.— I hope you will conclude on your return to settle somewhere else, and should wish it might be at Boston.

          I find by letters from Mr: Murray, that Dandridge has left him, and that for the present Mr: Mountflorence serves him, as Secretary.
          God bless you! and give you a prosperous voyage!


Title: John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 16 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

              My Dear sir
              Quincy Oct. 16. 1798

            The inclosed Letter from the sec. of state will go by the Way of England. In the paragraph quoted from me I wish you not to mistake. I dont mean that I have any aversion to a Treaty with Prussia or sweeden, upon Terms consistent with your Instructions. You may agree to such a Treaty as soon as you please. But in the present State of Things, if the Neutral Powers will not go to War with France and We are compelled to do so, I have no Scruple to say I will not bind the United states to let French Dutch & spanish Property pass, under Neutral Flaggs. I hope the Dutch & the Spaniards will not

force Us into a War with them. But if they do they must and shall take the Consequences.
            Your Mother has been sick of a Complication of Disorders, a chronic Diarrhea, an intermittent fever and almost a Diabetes sometimes for three Months. she is still very weak, but We think better, and hope will get well. We are in hopes of seeing your Brother in a few Weeks. Love to your best Friend and to your new sec. I am / your affectionate

              John Adams

            Be pleased to make my best Compliments to Mr De Thulemeyer and thank him for his kind Remembrance of me: I recollect with great Pleasure his kind & polite and even friendly Treatment of me for some Years, when We resided at the Hague. I would go a Great Way to have the Pleasure of a few Hours Conversation with him.— What Effect upon the World does he think our old Country of Holland, and the Austrian Low Countries will have in the Hands of France?


Title: Thomas Boylston Adams to John Adams, 27 October 1798
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Adams, John

            Dear Sir.
            Hamburg 27 October 1798.

          I wrote you soon after my arrival here that I expected to take passage with Captain Jenkins of the Ship America, bound to Newburypor[t.] I had in fact engaged to go with him, but as he said much to me of the uncomfortableness of his vessel and refused any compensation for taking me as a passenger, I thought best to look out for another opportunity, and upon the recommendation of Captn:

Jenkins, took passage on board the Alexander Hamilton, Captn Clarke bound to New York, and who then expected to sail as soon as any other. We shall probably be off in the course of a week, but as the America will out-sail us we cannot expect to arrive so soon.
          The Alexander Hamilton is the same Ship which took out Genl: Marshall from Bordeaux; is well armed & manned and very commodious. I write these particulars under the persuasion that the America will arrive some time before us and to prevent any anxiety on my account.
          Several very interesting events have lately taken place, as successors to the complete destruction or capture of the fleet, which escorted the french expedition into Egypt. The transports which were moored in the habour of Alexandria have since been totally destroyed by the English fleet, and one of the ships of war which escaped the first disaster, with two frigates are since taken or sunk.
          Nearly all the dispatches from & to Buonaparte since his taking possession of Alexandria & Cairo have been intercepted, and the only official details yet published are in the enclosed newspaper. His situation is thought to be desperate though he may yet maintain a long struggle against the natives of that Country, being in possession of their chief cities and commanding the neighborhood.
          A more recent naval engagement happend on the coast of Ireland, between a small squadron out of Brest & that under the command of Sir J. B Warren, in which four ships of the line were taken with one or two frigates and the rest of the vessels so much shattered that the English Admiral thought it not likely they could reach the ports of France even should they escape the british cruizers. The french squadron was destined to land troops in Ireland, and had very nearly reached its destination when the English fleet fell in with it. The English have lately lost a frigate which ran a-shore upon the french coast, and it is supposed that the Leander a 50 gun ship dispatched by Admiral Nelson after his victory, with the first intelligence of it, to Lord St Vincent, has fallen into the hands of the french. On board this vessel was Admiral Nelson’s own Captain (Berry.)
          It was reported here a few days since that the Embargo upon American vessels in the ports of France had been laid on afresh, but the intelligence proves to be unfounded as there are seamen here who were detained by the embargo and left Bordeaux three weeks since. They say, but one vessel, (the Sampson of New York) remained

when they came off, but that many of our Countrymen are yet imprisoned in the interior, where they were first sent. The papers have said that an envoy has gone out from Paris to Philada:—
          I hear from my brother frequently and shall bring with me his most recent letters if my passage should be fortunate. We have dreadful accounts of the prevalence of the yellow fever in three of our principal cities.
          Present me kindly to my mother & accept the best assurances of / attachment & respect from—


Title: Charles Adams to John Adams, 28 October 1798
From: Adams, Charles
To: Adams, John

            My dear Sir
            New York Octr 28— 1798

          Your very kind letter of the 13 instant was very grateful to me. We have indeed suffered a double anxiety both for ourselves and our friends it is so natural for the latter absent from the City to be more apprehensive than we have been that I have been very much pained at their remonstrances against remaining in town Nor should I have remained had I not conceived it an indispensible duty. I own to you, that I had rather stand in the front of Battle for the same time that the malady has raged. There is hardly an instance of any acquaintance of mine who has remained but has suffered in a greater or less degree by the fever and though for one or two days the alarm seems to subside yet we are soon aroused from security by increasing Reports of death. The inhabitants who have fled are so very anxious to return to their business that many have imprudently ventured and become victims. About ten days before the disorder took a very serious aspect we had the most violent rain that ever has fell since the recollection of the Oldest inhabitants. The Cellars in the lower parts of the City were filled by the over flowing of the Streets this water was but partially thrown out before the general alarm
          I believe it hardly requires a Physician to observe that this water pent up in closed cellars mixed with salt sugar and all the other numerous articles put in there must in three months of hot weather produce a very destructive air such as has proved fatal to many who have exposed themselves to it imprudently.
          With great pain I have often heard violent invective against Mr Gerry. Knowing and highly respecting his Character I have found myself almost his sole advocate among the friends of Government with whom I have conversed And I have always said wait till he tells his own tale. Since his arrival less has been said to recriminate him but still there is certainly some Public information to be given to clear his Conduct to those who may have Suspected him. For such has been the spirit of enimosity towards him that I am sure if any person had advanced the arguments in his favor I have done to many; they would have involved themselves in very serious quarrels but as I you know am privileged and can hardly be suspected of want of Federalism they have only stared and asked me “Mr Adams how can you think him honest?”
          I again request to know if Mr Desdoity’ vessel the Fox will be

permitted to go to the West Indies as a Parlementaire He is a worthy man and if I could serve him consistently I would do it as he has done me many favors. The little Abigail grows charmingly and is very healthy and quiet it gives me and Mrs Adams much pleasure that the name meets your approbation
          With Love and respects to all I am dear Sir Your affectionate

            Charles Adams


Title: John Quincy Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, 30 October 1798
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Thomas Boylston

            My dear Brother.
            Berlin 30. October 1798.

          I have received your’s of the 26th: enclosing one for Mr: Welsh— I now forward those Letters for America, with which I threatened you in my last.— Of all the news which you believed or expected to believe, the only parts likely to be confirmed, are the capture of the Leander, with Captain Berry, on board, and of the two french frigates by the Colossus.— The burning of the transports in the Nile, has no further voucher, and is not even mentioned in Letters from the English Minister at Constantinople of 25. September.— If the other account, from the Irish Coast were true, it would be one more very capital stroke; but it surpasses even the faith of a Jew, to believe it.
          À propos, speaking of Jews, your lottery ticket still remains in the bosom of the wheel, and shall be renewed in due time, for the last and decisive class. Your horse is yet unsold, and affords pleasant relaxation to Mr: Whitcomb, from his toils— Mr: Cornet Brown, (who returned yesterday, with his father, and who regrets very much not having seen you at Hamburg) has him this day upon trial, and if he does not take him, it is not improbable, that I may keep him for my own use
          The English Prince Augustus is here; but much out of health, with the Asthma.— I have not seen him— He has two very agreeable

& clever gentlemen with him—Mr: Livingston & Mr: Arbuthnot—the latter is much like Pitcairn.
          The Turkish Ambassador died yesterday.— He has passed his time here in writing a romance, which he was just about to publish.
          Adieu


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 12 November 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

              My Dearest Friend
              Flaggs at Weston Nov. 12. 1798

            We Stopped at the Governors to take Leave and he told Us the News of last night, which has regaled Us on the Road. We watered at Watertown and reached this Inn at half after one. We hope to reach Williams’s at Marlborough, and Sleep there this night. I strive to divert the melancholly thoughts of our Seperation, and pray you to do the Same. Mrs Smith I hope will keep Up her Spirits and the Sprightly charming Caroline will be a cordial to you both. William is very good attentive and obliging and sister may make herself easy on his Account. He will do very well. I pray God to bless you all and restore you to your full strength and Spirits. But you must ride a little every day.
            I am your ever affectionate

              J. A.

            I wish Mr Porter to cart the Manure from the yard up the Hill, for planting next Spring, as soon as possible.


Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 13 November 1798
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

            My dearest Friend
            Quincy Novbr 13 1798

          Mrs Smith appeard so anxious and unhappy tho She Said nothing, that seeing it, I advised her to follow you, & sent Michial to Town hoping she would overtake you tomorrow. she appeard so

rejoiced at the proposal, that in half an hour, she was gone. I hope She will overtake you by tomorrow night.
          I slept well last night & tho I feel very low spirited, I shall strive to be [co]ntent. I will follow you when I am able if you want me, but must leave it to future contingencies. I congratulate you upon the News which is now thought Authentic of the Capture of the French Fleet by Nelson. I inclose you some Letters received to day. the contents of one of them will remain as tho it had never been seen by me— I think it however, uncandid & severe forgive me that I opend it. it was in hopes of finding a Letter from Brisler— mr storer being here on his return to Hingham, I request him to address them and put them into the post office for you to be sent to N york.
          Mr Cranch remains very sick indeed the dr says— Love to William Shaw & to all who feel interested / in the happiness of your

            A A


Title: Abigail Adams to John Quincy Adams, 15 November 1798
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John Quincy

            my dear son
            Quincy November the 15th 1798

          Once more my dear son it is permitted me to address you by Letter. thanks to the Great Giver of every blessing

          I wrote to you previous to my leaving Philadelphia by Thomas Welch the 20 of July, Since which I have not been able to write a single Letter. I left Philadelphia on the 25th of July; on the 8th of August, I reachd my own Habitation—at Quincy; went into my Chamber, and for Eleven Weeks did not leave it; great part of the time. I hourly expected my dissolution—
          I took leave of all my Children, and left with Your Father my Blessing for them; Your sister was with me the whole time, which was a very great Satisfaction to me; her filial affection & constant attention afforded me much comfort and relief amidst the distressing desorder which threatned my Life. the season of my journey was the hottest I ever knew; the fatigue proved too great for my constitution, and brought on a Billious dierea which accompanied with an intermitting fever baffeld the skill of my Physicians. I am releived from the former of my complaints, but the fever I cannot get rid of. it hangs upon me, depressing my spirits, and depriving me of my sleep in a manner which I never before experienced. I have hopes that it will wear away as the cold weather approaches.
          This dangerous sickness my dear Son has prevented my acknowledging the receit of your many kind Letters which I have received during my sickness—as well as wholy interupted my communication with you. the Letters which I have received and are yet unacknowledged are No 36 May the 4th 37 may 30th, No 35 June 11th, 39 June 22 No 40 June 27th and this day I have received your excellent Letter of july 25 No 41. I cannot sufficiently thank you for your punctuality. if Life is spaired me, I shall be constant in my returns, but my opportunities for obtaining intelligence will not be so good as at Phyladelphia. I am obliged tho most reluctantly to relinquish my Journey this winter, and submit to your Fathers going without me. as the session will I trust be short, I am Supported with that hope— the thought of being Seperated at so great a distance in my low state of Health, has contributed to keep me low spirited, but when duty calls—my own happiness has always been with me; but a secondary consideration.
          Since I left Philadelphia it has again experienced that desolating pestilence, the yellow fever, which has raged with greater Malignity than at any former period. Brisler and Family fled as I directed when I left them, but four of my domesticks who belonged to the City fell a sacrifice to it.
          Many of my acquaintance have been the unhappy victims, amongst the Number the amiable miss Lucy Breck & the Lovely

miss Wescot; tho both out of the city Mr Anthony the Elder, a Greater loss Philadelphia could not have sustaind of a private citizen. death who is no distinguisher of Persons or Characters, leveld with the dust, the disorganizer Bache, & the true Friend of his Country, the honest upright Fenno— His son still carries on the paper, treading in the steps of his Father. N york has been severely dealt by, with this same fever, which made the city nearly desolate for several months, by the fleeing of the inhabitants, and the destruction of those which remaind in the city. nor has Boston been exempt from this deadly foe—tho it proved less mortal there; thousands of the inhabitants removed into the Country. they are now returning to it—
          Our Country with few exceptions, continues to increase in vigor, and to be ready in spirit to meet the Great Nation; despising both their arts and their Charms. from the most remote and distant parts of the union addresses flew in, speaking the same decided language; and approbating the measures persued by our Government. Powder and Ball are the only tribute talkd of for Tallerand. I cannot omit the pleasure of inclosing to you a Character of him drawn by T Paine at the opening of the new Theatre. you know his talent for satire. I wish it could be translated into French without loosing any of its point. the compliment to the President is inimitable, but read and judge for yourself—
          In several of your late Letters you have mentiond a subject which has been a source of distress to me for a long time. it is hard upon you to have your prudence and oceonomy thus trifled away—by one and an other—
          I have written again upon the subject, and expostulated in such terms as must procure an explanation, and replie. I will write you what ever I can collect, but the poor child is unhappy I am sure. he is not at Peace with himself: and his conduct does not meet my wishes. he has an amiable wife, Prudent and discreet, who has every wish and disposition to render Home the most delightfull Spot two lovely Children— I hope my Letters will in time have their effect. I have discharged my duty, I hope faithfully but my dying Bed was embitterd (as I then thought it), with distress for the only Child whose conduct ever gave me pain
          I hoped you would e’er this have sent a power to dr Tufts to have taken your property into his Hands— Dr W—h has never said a word respecting it tho I once wrote him upon it, and my Sickness prevented my doing any thing further for you—

          My Love to mrs Adams to whom I will write. poor Thomas Johnson was very dangerously sick at the same time I was. I think from the nature of his complaints, a spitting of Blood, that he can never be well Nancy is married. I suppose however you get Letters frequently from the Family which give you a circumstantial account of all that concerns them. my Sickness has interupted my intercourse by Letters as formerly— we have had one weding in our Family and it was at this House. Betsy Smith was married to mr Foster—whom I dare say you knew—a worthy young Man in Boston an upholsterer my paper only allows me / room to say I am your affectionate

            M—


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 15 November 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dearest Friend
            Berlin Nov. 15, 1798

          You never recd a Letter from Berlin but with Pleasure: and this I dare say will not be the first.—
          From Austins in a lowry Morning We proceeded to Hartford and dined at Bulls. A polite Invitation from the County Court to dine with them was declined, and We came on immediately to Squire Rileys. The Coachman thought it would be too hard upon the Horses to go to Wallingford

          I have now read all the News from the Boston Paper of Monday and am more of a Pyrrhonest than I was when I read it parteally at Flaggs.
          We have been highly favoured in the Weather for four days and have done well to get as far as this Place. We have glided along unforeseen unexpected, and have avoided all Noise show, Pomp and Parade. This We could not have done if We had been favoured with the Company of a single Lady.
          I want your society, Advice and Assistance however so much that I should be willing to ride but fifteen Miles a day, to obtain it. But alass! I hope You have recd a Letter from me every day for I have written one at least. I have none from your hand nor Mrs Smith nor Louisa.
          By this time I hope I may wish Betcy Joy, which I do sincerely. Mr Foster will make her a happy Woman, if it is not her own fault, and She will make him a happy Man, if it is not his.
          My Head has been a Nuisance to me ever since I left home. My 80d were laid out for a scourge. What I shall do I know not. I ride and live in pain.
          I would give all my Teeth to know whether you slept last night or will sleep to night.
          William is very attentive and obliging but like Dr Arbuthnot has his fault a slouch in his Gait, which however I intend to cure.
          Adieu, Morpheus bless you.

            J. A


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 16 November 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dearest Friend
            Stratford Nov. 16. 1798

          From Rileys in Berlin, We went to Newhaven 26 miles to dinner at your Friends Mrs Smiths who were very respectfully inquisitive after your health, and very sorry to hear an Account of it from me, not so flattering. A Visit from Dr Dwight detained Us agreably for a short time but We found enough to cross the Ferry over the Housatonnac by sunsett and soon reached Lovejoys in this Town. We had our Fire made in our Bedchamber and our Tea and Oysters Served up, When behold a Vision of the Night in the Forms of Mrs Smith and the fair Caroline bolted in upon Us without the least previous notice or Suspicion. The first Sight convinced me that you was better than When I left you. The Ladies have born the Journey to Admiration, and Mrs Smith is convinced as I am that the Stage is the easiest mode of travelling. I shall take them in my Carriage the rest of the Way which is not more than fifty five or sixty Miles to East chester. We shall not however reach Col Smiths before Monday night, for my Horses have been pushed too much already.
          I rejoice to hear you are better, and now my most immediate Anxiety is for my dear Brother Cranch, who is represented by my Daughter to be very sick. I pray for his Recovery as well as yours.
          Generals Washington, Hamilton & Pinckney are at Philadelphia, not waiting for me, I hope.
          Envoy Logan is said to be returned, for any Thing that I know Ambasador from the Directory to——
          I wish you a good night.

            J. A


Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 18 November 1798
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

              My dearest Friend
              Quincy Novbr 18 1798

            By the post of yesterday I received your two Letters, one from Brookfeild and one from Suffeild I rejoiced in your rapid progress as the Weather was so fine but I mournd for mrs smith, Who I knew was following you with all speed, but I fear from your rapid movement did not overtake you untill last night, if then. by a Letter which came yesterday to her from her sister Clarkson which I ventured to open: I am sure she judged right in going on, tho it leaves me more lonely than I could wish I could not have enjoyd her company whilst she approhend any censure could fall upon her; her struggle was hard between her two duties. I decided for her. I knew for her peace of mind, tho she earnestly desired to remain with me. I shall want to hear when and where she overtook you. I have

written you twice, and addrest my Letters to N york to the care of Charles, hoping you would get them when you reachd that city.
            my Health is much as it was the third day I have the intermitting & a sleepless night but I get two Nights of pretty good Sleep. I must find out something if I can to rid me of so troublesome a companion, for it destroys in one night all I acquire of Health and strength the preceeding ones—and it cramps and dejects my spirits in a very great degree. I however strive to throw it of and engage in the Family affairs so as to amuse my mind, yet melancholy thoughts will frequently get the better of me. I hope however to reconcile myself to the solitary lot of absence better in a few weeks than at present. Cousin Betsy was married here on thursday, and went to Boston the next morning to Housekeeping. I did not mention it to you before you went away least you should think I should make some exertion and injure my Health, but I did not. We had only a small Number of the nearest connextions, and I stayd in my chamber untill after Tea, and retired to it again soon after they were married. Mr Foster being one of dr ackeley parisioners he ventured to Marry him, tho out of his own Limits, and Sister Peabody was desirious of seeing her married before she returnd home. they both left me on fryday morning, and here sit Louissa & I looking at each other, and now and then wishing for little caroline to enliven the scene— our Pleasure was much alloyd by the sickness of Brother Cranch & the concequent absence both of him and sister Cranch. Mrs Tufts was the only lively spirit with us—
            mrs Peabody was at Grenoughs, and he lamented very much that you had gone without his seeing you again as he thought he could have renderd you much easier after trial. he expected you would have call’d again upon him, say’d that he was not able to do so well as he should have been, if he had not been so afflicted with his Eyes— I am affraid you must have sufferd an inconvenience from the motion of the Carriage, as you was not Sufficiently innured
            Mr Porter will attned to your orders as soon as possible, but the vessel with the Lumber is just arrived and must be attended to directly. I inclose with this, Letters, received by the last Mail. you will find one addrest to me and will consider the subject if attended with proper recommendations—
            Your ever affectionate

              A Adams

            Present my Respects to Genll Washington with thanks for his & mrs Washingtons kind wishes as exprest in his Letter to you—


Title: Abigail Adams to William Smith Shaw, 18 November 1798
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Shaw, William Smith

            my dear Nephew
            Quincy Novbr 18 1798

          when this reaches you I presume you will have arivd to the end of your journey, and have taken possession of your office, where I trust you will be usefull—and I hope happy— I find the publick offices are removed, from Trentown. I judge your uncle will proceed immediatly to Philadelphia. I have not had a line from mr Brisler for more than a month. I hope if he and his Family are safe returnd, that he will write to me immediatly, as I shall want to learn from him many things respecting the Family, and particuliarly whether he received safe the Letters I wrote him respecting the wine—
          on the Thursday as was proposed, after you left me, Mr Foster was married to miss Betsy Smith, there been present mr Fosters mother, two sisters, and a cousin, sister smith Dr and mrs Tufts, cousin Betsy smith of Weymouth Boston, your Mamma, and the Revd dr Ackly who performd the service, in a very solemn & pathetic manner they came out early in the afternoon took Tea with me about seven the ceremony was performd; and before nine they returnd to Boston. Betsy conducted herself with much ease and propriety. so did mr Foster who is a modest well behaved Gentlemanly young Man. I rejoice to find that Betsy is so agreably connected, for tho I have known mr Foster from others, I never had an opportunity of conversing with him untill a few Evenings before he was married.
          Your Mother went into Boston with her the next day, on fryday; and preposed reaching Home yesterday Saturday. mr Peabody tarried for her in Town—

          Your uncle Cranch has been very sick ever since you went away. mr Porter watchd with him last night, and brings me word that he is rather better this morning—
          I inclose to you the list of your Cloaths which you left. mr Fenno must send me his paper and You must put up Claypoles and send me. let mr Brisler subscribe to mr Fenno for me. you must write to me and tell me your observations upon the Country and what ever you met with amusing. I should not feel so lonely if I could read, but I cannot but for a short time—
          I am my dear Nephew / your affectionate

            Aunt A A


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 22 November 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            Van Tilsburys 3 miles from PrinctonThursday Evening24 I believe [22] of Nov. 1798
            My Dearest Friend

          We Spent Sunday at Stanford at Webbs went to Meeting forenoon and afternon, and on Monday went to Dinner at East Chester. Tuesday in a Violent Snow storm went into New York, dined & Slept at Charles’s. Wednesday crossed the Ferry and went to Elizabeth Town. This day We came five and thirty miles to this Place. From New York our poor Horses have waded and dragged the Carriage through Snow banks and Mud, till I have dreaded their failure. They have Supported the fatigue however a mervaille and even Sloven as lean as a lath has brought along Frank in the Saddle very well. We have yet five and thirty miles to Phyladelphia. I hope to reach McElroys tomorrow and go into the City on Saturday. Mr Shaw has been very good and the Coachman and Footman or Horseman have done their duty with great Care and Fidelity.
          I have heard nothing from you Since Mrs Smith left you, and I have Anxieties enough on your Account, as you may easily imagine.
          I have no news from Brisler and know not the Condition of the House, but I shall alight at the Door on Saturday.
          All Ideas of the Fever both at New York and Phyladelphia, are lost and nobody Speaks of it now.
          We had Scarcely become warm at our Fireside, when Mr and Mrs Liston and Lord Henry Steuart came in travelling also to

Phyladelphia. They used a Slay for the first time of their Lives to day. Very polite Inquiries after your health.
          You cannot be thankful enough that you did not Attempt to come on.
          Adieu, my Dear Friend— Make yourself as happy as you can: And take every possible care of your health.
          Mr Shaw Sends his Duty. I am as / ever

            J. A


Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 25 November 1798
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

            my dearest Friend
            Quincy Nov’br 25 sunday 1798

          you have been so good writing at every stage where you put up for the night, that I have been able to follow you with pretty exact calculation. I thought however that mrs smith would overtake you at Newhaven I received yesterday mor’g your Letter from Lovejoys and was rejoiced to find that mrs smith had come up with you, more So, as the unpleasent weather must have retarded you on your journey; if it was half as bad with you as here; I took a ride in the sleigh yesterday afternoon towards Milton. The whole Earth looks like mid winter, and the snow is 4 & 5 foot deep, in Banks driven together & consoladated so that it will lie at the sides of the Road till next March or April at Plimouth & Hingham there was very little, not much at Weymouth but the nearer you advance towards Boston the deeper it is. if it had fallen level it would have made excellent travelling. our Timber has been rafted on shore at mr Brackets landing, but no carts could get to it, and we were threatned with a repeated snow storm; I sent mr Porter to get Faxon & his two Teams and French’s yesterday with ours. they Hauld 16 load, and if the weather hold good we hope to get the rest tomorrow, but the Boards have not yet made their appearence. mr Porter supposes they will be Rafted as the timber but it is tedious cold work as they are obliged

to work in the water. the vessel would not venture, she was so large to mr Blacks creek, they raft from Germantown. mr Black Speaks highly of the goodness of the timber, but begs you would not spoil the Building by too Short posts. 18 feet post he says captain Beals says 20—or build a common open Barn as it is call’d with 16—and the Coach House by itself with 20 they both agree that the additional cost will be only the Side Boards—and that a Building 40 foot with 16 foot posts will look very Grotisk and ugly—but this for future consideration. mr Black is fully with you & so is capt Beal respecting the placing it in a line with the House—and I believe they have more judgment in these Matters than the dr—
          I think Nelsons victory must be true for it comes confirmd so many ways, and by persons who have seen the official account, that it can be no longer doubted. it is an event which will have great influence in America; and the Authenticity of it a good prologue for the opening of congress— “Who is there to care for Logan? not one” Have you seen the Letter said to be written by Barlow to Baldwin. I fear you will miss it it is publishd in Porcupine paper of 10 & 11. Nov’br If he was really & truly the writer I hope he will instantly be stripd of all diplomatic power—a disgrace to his Country a reproach and a scandle—
          I went to see Brother Cranch one day last week, the first House I have put my foot into Since I came Home. I found him very weak & low, tho I hope mending as his cough and fever have abated, but he cannot stand many of these turns at his Age— he now sleeps better, but the dr thinks he will scarcly get out this Winter. I have had a week without a sleepless night. my mind is more setled & less anxious and I hope I am recovering my usual strength. my fever has also absented itself for a week, and to day tho very cold, I wrapt myself warm & ventured to meeting half a day; I hope I have not taken any cold. Michial behaves very well as yet, & I begin to feel like a House keeper again. Billings came yesterday, and I setled with him, & paid him nineteen pounds six shilling in full— he says he shall come next summer & work for you—
          I want to hear from Brisler & Family. I fear you will be so occupied when you get to Philadelphia that I shall scarcly get a line a week— my Love to William tell him to mind my injunction, of an open Ear, but a close mouth
          tell me who and who inquires after me as if they cared for me. the Nyork paper & Porcupine have undertaken to regreet my

necessary absence from the seat of Goverment. I suppose they think you will want some body to keep you warm, & knowing that you are not a david, commissirate your lonely Situation— the paragraph from the Nyork paper is a very precious one to me—
          Remember me to all my Female Friends. I have the vanity to think, that the Federal Reps and Senators will miss me this winter
          I am as ever your

            Abigail Adams


Title: William Smith Shaw to Abigail Adams, 25 November 1798
From: Shaw, William Smith
To: Adams, Abigail

            Philadelphia Nov 25th 1798 Sunday Evening
            My dear Aunt

          I have a thousand things to tell you and but a few minutes to write. We arrived in this city fryday Evening about seven Oclock— the first week we had most beautiful weather & found the roads most excellent— the President said he never knew them to be so good. but the snow made them as bad as they were before good. We had not been in the house but a few minutes before his Excellency the Govenor came in, with a couple of Gentlemen, whom he introduced to the president & then turned round & shook hands with them himself, as if he had not before seen them. “I wish to God, Mr president, you had not come till tomorrow; for I had ordered all my troops out to escort you into the city— you may depend upon it, sir, that there are not any citizens of the United States (here he let his hat fall) more attached to the federal government & to you, personally, Sir, than those of Pensylvania & they wished very much to show you their respect & attachment on this occasion. I wish to God, Sir, you had not come till tomorrow.” If the above will divert you as much as it did those who heard him, I shall not repent relating it to you, but must beg you not to show the letter to any one.
          I was very sorry to find all the way as we rode through

Massachusetts, that great prejudices had been made against the land tax & Mr Packard of Malborough told us, that a Number of his parishioners had told him that they voted for Mr Varnum for no other reason than as he was a great opposer to the “Land Tax.” I believe it is pretty certain that if Mr. G had consented to have stood as a candidate, he would have had a very great majority.
          I have at last put the office in tolerable order & all the papers in their proper departments, but found it no small piece of business for many of the papers were loose & in confusion. I find Mr & Mrs. Brisler very good friends, they pay every possible attention to me. He has written you five or six letters since he left Trenton respecting the house &c but as they were directed to the president Mr. Hastings sent them to Philadelphia, two of them he has stopped & two will go with this. Brisler says he has no encouragement now to make good diners &c for there are no ladies & if every thing is ever so good, gentlemen never give any credit. He cannot find the stamp for invitation cards & we want it very much. If you recollect where it is please to write.
          I want to hear how my mother went home, how my good Uncle Cranch does &c. please to write to me often, I shall write to you again in a few days. The president is pretty well & in tolerable good spirits but very much involved in business.
          I am my dear aunt your affectionate nephew.

            Wm S Shaw


Title: Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody to Abigail Adams, 26 November 1798
From: Peabody, Elizabeth Smith Shaw
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dear Sister—
            Atkinson Novr. 26th 1798

          I have this moment been conversing with Richard Dexter upon the subject of becoming one in your Family— His Object is to get some property, that he might acquire more knowledge in our Academy, & then go into the country, purchase Land for a little Farm, & by honest industry be stiled a useful member of Society, & a faithful defender of its rights, & Liberties—
          He sustains a good Character, & has been a person in whom Mrs Peabody has placed great confidence, proving himself worthy of trust by his uncommon fidelity— He says he will go on tomorrow morning, upon trial for two months; & if it is agreeable will then contract for a year— I think he must please you, as he is modest, has an Idea of Subordination, is obliging, accommodating, & can turn his hand to almost any kind of business— I have told him he might improve in his writing, that you would permit him to write evenings when you had not business for him—
          I have not heard one word from Quincy since I left the Peaceful Vale— There, I hope, will be no occasion for weeping sorrow, to lift a tearful eye; but for manny, very many succeeding years may health, Love, hope, & joy smile in every Eye, & brighten every feature—
          Abby’s arm I am happy to say is much better, very weak yet, but has recovered all the motions proper to the Limb— For contracted muscles commend me to Dr Hughes ointment— I co[uld] never perceive her arm straitened till I used [it—]
          I have a very bad cold, yesterday I was like a Clock, could not speak a word, but kept in silent motion— I felt such a pressure upon my lungs that I feared I should have a fever, but to day I am much better— I cannot go out of the room to write, so I must sit, & hear a constant buzz—for notwithstanding my recommendations, I cannot perswade any of my acquaintance to become desciples of Zeno—or Phythagoras—incessant talking, singing, playing upon a flute &ce— I perceive there is a Gentleman just come in for a certificate, that wants to teach musick in the Evenings— By his conversation, & air I fancy he is one of those unfortunate persons whom Venus, & Cupid have conspired against, & is what some call love cracked— pray tell me? is there anything musical in love, that all those who are dissappointed in the one, fly to the other— He appears in raptures with

a young Lady where he has been boarding, & says if he had not been proved, a Phylosopher he should be quite undone—
          I am very desirous of hearing from you, as I suppose you have heard when Mrs Smith overtook her Father— I saw, & pitied the struggle between filial & conjugal affection—& rejoiced that in her mind the later prevailed— it was conformable to the rules of the Gospel, to that prudence, & discretion which has in so many instances marked her conduct—
          Pray if you cannot write to me, vote Cousin Betsy scribe, & I must intreat her to write soon to your ever obliged, & affectionate Sister

            E Peabody

            PS love to all— I hope Brother Cranch for our sakes will be kept a little longer from the Sky—


Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 29 November 1798
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

            My dearest Friend
            Quincy Nov’br 29 1798

          This is our Thanksgiving day. when I look Back upon the year past, I perceive many, very many causes for thanksgiving, both of a publick and Private nature. I hope my Heart is not ungratefull, tho sad; it is usually a day of festivity when the social Family circle meet together tho seperated the rest of the year. No Husband dignifies my Board, no Children add gladness to it, no Smiling Grandchildren Eyes to sparkle for the plumb pudding, or feast upon the mincd Pye. Solitary & alone I behold the day after a sleepless night, without a joyous feeling. am I ungratefull? I hope not. Brother Cranchs illness prevented Him and my sister from joining me, & Boylston Adams’s sickness confineing him to his House debared me from inviting your Brother & Family. I had but one resource, & that was to invite mr & mrs Porter to dine with me; and the two Families to

unite in the Kitchin with Pheby the only surviving Parent I have, and thus we shared in the [“]Bounties of providence”
          I was not well enough to venture to meeting and by that means lost an excellent discourse deliverd by mr Whitman, upon the numerous causes of thankfullness and gratitude which we all have to the Great Giver of every perfect Gift; nor was the late Glorious Victory gained by Admiral Nelson over the French omitted by him, as in its concequences of Great importance in checking the mad arrogance of that devouring Nation.
          and here let me congratulate you upon the event, as now made certain. I hope it will prove of Great advantage to us, as well as to all the powers whom France has abused debased and insulted—
          I cannot speak of them in the stile of Govr Henry, tho I like his speech, and belive he made it without the aid of Laudanum. the address from thence I like, make a good answer to it—
          I presume you reachd Philadelphia on saturday— I wrote to you twice to N york to the care of Charles & twice I have written to you addrest to Philadelphia I hope you received the Letters—
          I am as ever your / truly affectionate

            A Adams


Title: Joshua Johnson to John Quincy Adams, 1 December 1798
From: Johnson, Joshua
To: Adams, John Quincy

            Dear Sir
            Geo. Town 1 December 1798.

          The only Letter I have receved from you since my arrival in this Country is dated the 11 October 1797 nor have I wrote you before waiting the arrangement of my affairs, that the Subject of my Letter might be more pleaseing to us both, this is however not compleated, still I have the pleasure of telling you that I have suceeded in getting my late Partners into an Arbitration & which will be finished before the 1 February, soon after which I hope to have my Property delivered up into my own hands & should the British Goverment

restore me that which they have so cruelly detained from me, I will soon get rid of Mr. Delius & every other who has a Just claim on me, and after which, from all that I can as yet see, I shall not be short in value to what I have told you, there will be for my Children, I will say nothing more to you at present on my affairs, more than that they are in the hands of Mr. Cranch your Relation who I am shure will be assiduous in Collecting them— Mrs. Johnson has receved from our Dear Child several Letters, from which we are informed that She has been extreamly Ill and unfortunate. the Prayers of her Sincerly affectionate Parents are rendered up to Heaven for her Speedy restoration to Health & that you both may be blest to the utmost extent of your wishes; a few Lines from you every now and then will be taken kind, if it only says how your Healths are—
          Your informations being diret from the Fountainhead is far superior to any that I can give you, I shall therefore confine myself meerly in telling you that the Seat of Goverment has not progrest as I expected to have found it, what it will do when Congress comes here I cannot say but even then I am not sanguine & as a proof of it I have not made any addition to the property I formerly held in it, tho I could have done it on good terms.
          In respect to Family matters, your Dear Mother has long been indisposed & at one time so much so that we were much alarmed but by Letters Mrs. Johnson has Just recieved from her we are much releaved on her account, your Father is at Philadelphia & I hear pretty well. my little Woman & all the Girls are pretty well, Tom is better but he mends slowly & it remains very uncertain whether he will ever regain perfect Health again—
          May every Blessing attend you & my Dearest Louisa to whom tender the Affectionate Love of her Mother Sisters Brother & Father accept the same yourself from each & believe me truly & sincerely my, / Dear Sir / Your Affectionate

            Joshua Johnson


Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 2 December 1798
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

              my dearest Friend
              sunday December the 2d 1798

            I last Evening received your Letters, one of the 24th from Prince Town, and of the 25th from Philadelphia. I rejoiced to find you safe landed there, tho so far very far distant from me. as you wrote immediatly upon your arrival I could not expect any Family documents. I hope Brisler will inform me. I am going to send you an excellent servant as represented to me by my sister Peabody. sober honest and industerous, he lived Eleven years with Genll Peabody is a Native American, and will carry with him, what Tom Jones calld a good Letter of Recommendation. I mean—good countanance. he may be confided in, and will be a great acquisition to Mr Brisler if he answers the Character given him. he has been used to waiting, tho not altogether in the manner he may be calld to now. my intention was to have kept him myself if Michial had not suited, but as yet I have no fault to find with Michial who does much better here, than he would at Philadelphia and Dexter will be more valuable to you there. he has been used to Horses and can drive a pr. upon occasion but it is more necessary to mr Brisler now, to have honest & Faithfull domesticks than ever, as so great a weight of care will lie upon himself—
            I cannot find any vessel going to Philadelphia, but there is one up for N York in which I believe he will take passage I do not like you should be surrounded with united Irishmen tho I find I have one in my Family, but here he will do me no harm.
            Mr Porter has had a bad weeks work; with the timber tho very heavey they made out pretty well, & got it all home: but when the Boards joists & shingles came to be rafted they had to drag them all out of the water upon the Beach & to work in the water for three days. I was obliged to hire four additional Hands at a dollor a day to assist them. they would not undertake for less— fortunately they have got them all safe on land, and mr Porter and French are carting them: from mr Blacks they could have gone 5 load a peice pr day now they can go only three, but the weather was so stormy & the vessel large the season so advanced, that they could not be prevaild upon to venture up— the whole Lumber is said to be excellent, but it will take a considerable time yet to get it Home, and then the Boards must all be stuck. in short I think the winter as buisy a time

as the summer—not a day but what has been fully occupied. the stormy ones were improved in killing the Creatures— I know you like to know how Family Buisness proceeds—
            Boylstone Adams has a slow intermitting fever and I fear will be confined all winter. no one need have a more unwelcome Guest. after a weeks absence in which time I gatherd more strength & got more refreshing sleep than for two months before, the first thawye damp day it returnd upon me, and out of four Nights I have had but one of sleep— I did not get a wink the last, yet I must write to you. it is all my comfort. I wish you would ask Rush how I shall contrive to get rid of it & Gain my sleep? Laudanum I do not like. I had rather suffer for want of rest than get into the habit of taking it
            Be so good as to tell William that I heard from his mother, and that she got home well on the Saturday after he left her—but took a bad cold riding in the snow Abbe Arm is better, strengthend by Hughes ointment.
            I shall look for the speach with some impatience, tho I do not believe you make a Congress the first week— I received a Letter from JQA last Evening. Thomas Welch had arrived at Hamburgh after a passage of 38 days—and was expected at Berlin Thomas B A designd to embark from Hamburgh. the Letter is dated 4 sep’br. I will send it you the next post but first I want to send it to —— you will then see it
            yours as ever

              Abigail Adams

            Mr Cranch is a little better

              December the 3d

            I had a good nights rest the last & feel better to day we had a new fall of snow yesterday. dont leave my Letters about your table—


Title: Abigail Adams to John Quincy Adams, 2 December 1798
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John Quincy

            my dear son—
            Quincy December 2d 1798

          Last Evening I received your Letter of sepbr. 4th No 42— accept my thanks. it grieved me to think how anxious you must feel before an other Letter from my hand would reach you. I was rejoiced to Learn that Thomas Welch was safely arrived at Hamburgh— I hope you will find in him a true American, but as you observe your Brothers place cannot be supplied to you. I am anxious least he should make a winters voyage here. our coast is dreadfull and every storm will distress me, but He who careth for the fowls of heaven, and the small sparrow of the Field will be his Guardian & protector, and I pray Him to return this dear amiable son to his Parents and country in safety—
          you judge and think so accurately respecting the affairs of your Country, the conduct it ought to take, preserve and mantain, that every syllable you write, ought to be made publick. I hope and trust that you will not be dissapointed in the final result. I am sure you will not, if the advice and counsel of the Head of the Nation is sufficiently attended to, but intrigue art and wickedness walk in darkness, envy and ambition stand ready to seize the Reigns—and push the possessor from His hold—but I trust this cannot be effected even by the aid and power of the Great Nation. the Authentick account of Admiral Nelsons Glorious victory over the French fleet in Rosetta Bay, has fortunately arrived before the meeting of Congress, and will I trust have its influence in silencing the advocates for the Great Nation. Logan has returnd, but neither he or those, who sent him will reap any Lawrels from his mission. he is much despised by all federilist. we shall see what figure mr Gerrys correspondence with Tallerand will make when publishd. he will not sink I trust more than he has already. Genll Pinckney appears much the boldest firmest and most decided Character. mr Marshall has sunk his Character very much with all his real Friends by His answers to certain questions proposed to him by an Elector previous to his voting for him as a Representitive to congress. I own I was astonishd that a Man of his knowledge should condemn the Alien and sedition Bill, past the last session of Congress, tho they were shaved and pared, to almost nothing. they have had a salutary effect, weak as they are. can any Good thing come out of Nor can a Virginnian have a clear Head?

          I received a Letter from your Father on saturday—informing me of his safe arrival on the 25 of November at Philadelphia. I wrote you on the 15 of the last month in which Letter I accounted to you for my long silence oweing to a dangerous sickness of three months, and that my infirm state of Health prevented my accompanying your Father this winter. during my sickness your Father wrote to you—
          Since I wrote to you I have received a Letter from N York—in answer to one I wrote upon receiving yours of July 25. I transcribe it. [“]my Brothers money was secured upon mortgage. the first years interest I payd out of my own pocket. I was prevaild upon to transfer that security for a Note to save colonel S——h from immediate confinement. Mr Justice smith is the drawer of the Note, which is certainly Good in the event, but oweing to the fall of the price of Land he has not been able to advance the interest in time how could I write this to my Brother who would have charged me with imprudence in the appropriation of his money, when had he been upon the spot, as much as I have done would have been sanctiond by him. I have not enjoyd one moments comfort for upwards of two years on this account, my sleep has been disturbed, and my waking hours embitterd.”
          I believe the account true because I learnt as much from sally last Novbr twelve month upon which I cautiond you. Justice smith lives upon his Lands and has a large tract in possession, but what he owes I know not Charles you know, never had the power of resistance. I dare say his own property has gone the same way. I have written Charles and blamed him for not writing you, and laying facts before you in which case you would not have thought so hardly of him as from his total silence you had reason to. I have also written dr Welch a second time desiring him to transfer to dr Tufts his power and to commit your affairs to his Hands. Charles says you have directed him to pay the interest now due to me, which he will do by the first of Jan’ry— I have not received any direction from you what to do with it, but I shall deliver it to dr Tufts to be laid out in publick securitys. if you had purchased with your money the defered stock—you would have done better than you could any other way. our stocks rise, very little at market but in case of a war, they would undoubtedly fall. I think however I should risk them;
          your Aunt Cranch desires me to tell mrs Adams that her son is a near Neighbour to her Father, that both he and mrs Cranch have found Parental attention towards them mr Cranch removed to George Town, and took mr Cooks office at the request of mr

Johnson & has taken mr Johnsons buisness into his Hands Both Families live in the greatest Harmony, and are mutually a comfort to each other. I regreet that mrs Adams has got into a Habit which I fear will injure her constitution. I Love her for the Good qualities she possesses, and rejoice that your Heart trusteth in her. may she continue to do you good all the days of your Life.
          The seperation from your Father this winter is a trial to me more severe I think than formerly. the danger I was a long time in of a final seperation, has only more closely bound us to each other, and having during our connection been so often seperated, we wish the few years remaining to us might be spent together, but I early learnt the lesson of sacrificing to the Publick. I do not write to my dear Thomas. I hope to embrace him e’er long in his Native Land. with the Sincerest / and Warmest affection / I am your Mother


Title: Mary Smith Gray Otis to Abigail Adams, 2 December 1798
From: Otis, Mary Smith Gray
To: Adams, Abigail

            Dear Mrs Adams
            Philadelphia Decr: 2d 1798

          Next to the pleasure of seeing you, would have been that of hearing, of your perfect restoration to health; but ’tho that pleasing account has not yet reached me, it is a satisfaction to know that you are much better than when I left you: & I will still hope that “He, who is the health of the countenance,” will in his infinite mercy establish yours. I feel a great deduction from my happiness, by your absence, & your house & its inhabitants, a void which nothing can make up to them. We dined with the President, this and the last Sunday, according to former custom.—
          We had a pleasant journey home, the weather & roads, excepting the first week, were very fine. Upon our approach to the city, we heard that our house was ready for us, & perfectly safe to go into, notwithstanding our Negro woman, had gone ’thro the Fever, she took every precaution in cleansing & airing the house that was necessary I believe, & had been well herself, a month before we came home, so that I felt no apprehension. But the city to me, wears a glommy aspect, & the mourners go about the streets in great abundance. Those who have staid, ’thro the sickness tell me, they never would do it again. I think there is but too much reason to fear a return of it another year, & the safest way is to shut up the house, & let it take its chance for being plundered.—
          My neigbour Mrs Anthony return’d a few days ago, her daughter accompanied her, here, but will return immediately, I have not yet heard wether she stays in the house, this winter.—
          Mr Brecks family come into town tomorrow their house has been almost a hospital. Miss Willson came to see me, the other day, she enquired perticularly after you & Miss Smith, she bears her afflictions with great fortitude & patience Bishop White, has given her an invitation to pass the winter with him. Mrs Wolcot looks better than I ever expected to see her. The rest of our friends are all well.
          Please to give my love to Mrs Cranch I hope Mr C— is getting better
          Mr Otis & Harriet desire their Affecte: regards to you, with their best wishes for your speedy restoration to health.— Louisa also will please to accept their love, together with that of / Your Friend & Cousin

            M Otis


Title: John Russell to Abigail Adams, 6 December 1798
From: Russell, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            Madam,
            Boston, Dec 6. 1798—

          The Letter which you so obligingly communicated, is this day published in the Commercial Gazette; and I have endeavoured to make its insertion accurate and perspicuous. The original is

enclosed according to your directions. You will, I hope, pardon me for the liberty I am about to take, in requesting the honor of your commands in future, upon any similar occasion. Well knowing my duty in this respect, and feeling every disposition to do it, you may be assured, that all possible precaution would be taken to prevent any knowledge of the quarter from which they come, being obtained through the medium of the printing office. I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect and consideration, Madam, your most obedient servant,

            John RussellEditor of the Commercial Gazette.


Title: Abigail Adams to William Smith Shaw, 9 December 1798
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Shaw, William Smith

            Dear William
            fryday December 9th [7] 1798

          Last Evening was marrid at the Seat of the President of the united states, by the Revd mr Weld mr Ebeneazer Harmon to miss Abigail Hunt. please to inform miss Rebecca Tirril of this auspicious Event. as I am a great friend to Matrimony, and always like to promote it, where there is a prospect of happiness & comfort, and as Nabby had lived with me—and was about to marry the Brother of mrs Porter, I gave her the offer of being married in my Family— which she thankfully accepted. there was present mr Harmon the Father—a very respectable old Man, & 14 Brothers and sisters, which with my own Family made up a Room full. after the ceremony was over, I regaled them with a Glass of wine, & some cake and Cheese, which having partaken of they retired to the Farm House, where mrs Porter had prepared a supper of what was intended for her thanksgiving faire. after supper, mr Richard tuned up, & they closed with a dance. how long they kept it up, I do not know, for I retired to rest at about nine, and with the pleasurable reflection of having made Several honest families happy & pleasd I enjoyd a comfortable nights repose
          I received your Letter of the 25 and was diverted with the Govenours Zeal & sorry for his dissapointment, for as I was not of the party, I should not have regreted an exhibition of the warm attachment of the state of Pensilvana to the President & the Goverment I

believe there is much more of it in reality than formerly but none to spair—if all had been shown which was real
          you will have received a Letter from me before this, and I hope Richard will also have arrived. your mother has written for Betsy Palmer & I suppose she will soon go. she writes me that Abbes arm was much Strengthend by Hughes ointment. I presume you had a numerous Levee on twesday. you inquire for the card plate. it is upon the shelve behind the door in my writing Room—
          I believe some cards with it— I have no News to relate. no event to amuse you I have not been further from Home than Milton, and feel a want of courage for enterprize of any kind— these two or there cold days I have felt better, but all depends upon a Suppression of the fever, and good rest. you must write me as often as you can, & let me know what is passing
          I am your affectionate

            Aunt Abigail Adams


Title: Abigail Adams to John Adams, 10 December 1798
From: Adams, Abigail
To: Adams, John

              my Dearest Friend
              Quincy December 10th 1798

            I received yours of 28th of Nov’br I have not faild of writing to you once a week ever since you left me, and I believe twice, tho the Letters may not reach you, so regularly as I wish. I have kept you informd of our Movements. mr Porter & French compleated last night getting Home the whole of our Timber, Boards, and shingles of the Boards there are more than 30 thousand, and near 50 thousand

shingles— all agree better stuff was never brought. the Boards remain to be stuck. we have a prospect of winter enough, and long Enough. it began snowing yesterday & continues to increase this day, Sunday, with increased voilence. it bids fair for a very deep snow, and this at the commenement of December. we must now look to getting our wood, and sleding the manure upon the Hill we have made great slaughter with our English Hay working our cattle So hard, & keeping Frenchs, both whilst building the wall & carting the Timber, for we had no feed for a long time before you went away. I bought a load of straw for the Horses, so that Michial does not use Hay, nor do I let him be so lavish with oats as James used to be, for the horses are so little used that they do not require them, and Michial is of opinion that Favorites feet have been injured by giving him too many. he was lame before the Coachman went away, and has been so ever Since. his feet are constantly oild and I have had them examined by more than one Blacksmith, both of whom agree that he has the worst feet they have met with. I have now had his shoes taken of, and some old ones slightly put on and have orderd that he shall have only two qrts oats a day. be so good as to speak to mr Brisler respecting the Blacksmith employd by the Coachman, & let him order the Horses shod by the one whom he formerly employd the last did not do justice to the Horses—
            Brother Cranch seems something better tho he swells very much. Boylstone Adams was here & dined with me, the last week. I think his fever is leaving him & his cough has done so in a great measure but he is very thin & very feeble— I think he will not get out soon— for myself, I have not been so sick since you left me as to be confined to my Chamber, and tho my spirits and health are in proportion to the rest I get, my sleepless nights are fewer, and my rest better. I have had but one without sleep for a week, and I hope if the snow does not bank too much to be able to use more excercise—
            I sent Richard Dexter by way of Providence. I do not know what luck he has had in getting on. if you like him as I think you will, I would have him to attend particuliarly upon you, that you may have a Servant whom you can understand he appeard very desirious of pleasing and he wishes to spend his leisure, if any he has, in learning to write and spell. cousin William will do well to assist him in this
            Genll Lincoln has been leading me into temptation. I think it best to give you suitable information of it. He has told me that he expects to go to Philadelphia in Jan’ry if the sleying should prove fine,

and that he will take charge of me & go just as I can bear, as he shall be in no Hurry, and that we may get on—so charmingly if I should find my Health—sufficiently confirmd by that time. but I know not whether I shall have courage to attempt it, unless I should hear that you were unwell, and then no difficulty shall stop me short of sickness on my part. I find the cold weather strengthen me, but you will see in a little time how you make out. I would not upon any account come to be the trouble I have been both to myself and Friends—nor attempt a journey without feeling myself able to encounter it
            I see by last Evenings centinal that Russel has republishd the Letter with some of his own observations upon it. I should like to know how it sits at P— the part which Logan, and his Employers have acted cannot be too fully known & exposed. I scarcly knew how to believe the News paper reports, that Logan dared give himself out as invested with Authority. Jefferson is handled in our Papers without much mercy—and will be still more execrated. he will however find his supporters we have news from Dominico whether to be relied upon I know not— we wait for the speech with some anxiety, perhaps none more so than / your

              Abigail Adams—

            Be so kind as to Frank and forward the inclosed Letters


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 13 December 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dearest Friend
            Phyladelphia Dec. 13. 1798

          Your Letters of Nov. 29 Dec. 2. and 3 affect me very tenderly. The low Spirits, Effects of long and exhausting sickness are apparent: but these are Evils of a serious nature. I pray you to banish as much as possible all gloomy Thoughts and be very cautious to avoid every thing which may endanger a return of your old Disorders.
          To reconcile you to your fate I have a great mind to give you a detail of mine. A Peck of Troubles in a large Bundle of Papers, often in a hand Writing almost illegible, comes every day from the office of  office of  offfice of  &c &c &c. Thousands of sea Letters Medeterranean Passes and Commissions & Patents to sign— No Company— No society— idle unmeaning Ceremony— Family Vices, Follies, Extravagance, shiftlessness, and Health, sinking for what I knew under my Troubles & fatigues.
          You and I, seem to have arrived prematurely at the Age when there is no pleasure.—
          All this is not the Resignation of Socrates.
          I cannot encourage the Idea of your coming on to Phyladelphia. The horrid Roads and cold damp Weather would put an End to you.
          I hope our dear Thomas will arrive and chear you up.— I am with / unalterable affection

            J. A


Title: John Adams to Abigail Adams, 14 December 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Abigail

            My Dearest Friend.
            Dec. 14. 98

          Rejoice with me, that I have this Day finished my Ceremonies with the two Houses. Their Answers to the Speech have been civil and I have given them civil Replies.
          My st. Anthonys fire attacked me again after I had been here a few days— But it has given me no Pain and is better—almost gone off.— It must be the Air or Water of this place that gives it me.
          The H. of R. will dispute about the Alien and sedition Laws all Winter I suppose. France seems to have lost all her Friends.

Bonapartes Mussellman Proclamation has done something— The D—l,! say some, what! renounce the Cross! and then take up the Crescent!— that is too much.— Rush Says there is not one Frenchman left among all his Acquaintance.—
          I hope the Lumber is all up.— Mr Porter must have had a bad time to cart it.—
          It would be nonsense to couple a fine barn with my hut. I shall make it plain & coarse: but 20 foot Post if you will—and by all means on a line With the front of the House.— I know what to do with the space between the Barn and the Road.—
          We had last night a mighty Rain— the hot dry summer has made the House leaky and We were deluged almost—
          The everlasting Damps in Winter in this Town would give you the Ague— We have not one Day nor Hour of dry Air—
          The Barn I suppose will take up much time: but I am determined to do something at Manure if I can in the Spring summer & fall.—
          Billy shaw is very good— Goes to the senate with Messages manfully.— But the solitude in which I live is curious.
          The dangerous Vice is not arrived.— If I was ever absent so long when I was the dangerous Vice, they did not Spare to censure me— But nothing is now Said.
          How I long to hear that our dear Thomas is by your fire Side! How I long to hear that Mr Cranch is well and Boylston Adams recovered? My Love to them all— Louisa I know is glad she is not in Phyladelphia. she never seems at her Ease here and I applaud her Taste.—
          We go on, very smoothly— Brisler keeps all in good humour: but he groans for Ma’am.
          January One February two— No more Months— Perhaps I must reckon part of March.
          I have been five Weeks from you next Monday—three Weeks here this night.—
          Next Fall We will come on earlier— If the Yellow Fever keeps Us out We will go to Bethlehem—, or the Federal City.—
          You went into your Kitchen to make Puddens and Pies too soon.— I suspect too you went even to Church before you ought.— You are an imprudent Lady in the Care of your health.—
          Gen. Washington is gone to Mount Vernon to day— Gen. Pinckney goes to Charleston next Week.— We are not afraid of an Invasion from France this Winter.— Adieu

            J. A


Title: William Smith Shaw to Abigail Adams, 16 December 1798
From: Shaw, William Smith
To: Adams, Abigail

              Philadelphia Dec 16th 1798 Sunday Evening.
              My Dear Aunt

            I received your letter of Dec 9th, with all that pleasure and satisfaction, which, the news of your better health, could not but excite— I declare I wish you would have, Aunt, a wedding every night in the week, for I plainly see that it gives you better spirits and consequently better health, than all the medicine in the world. I have not seen the president so happy this some time, as he was after reading your letters. We had not heard from you before, for more than a week & then you did not appear to be so well and we began to be very anxious.
            I have made myself reconciled little more to my situation, nights than I was; but at first the watchmen crying the hour of the night— the oystermen crying oisters, & the teams & horses directly under my windows would not allow me to sleep scarcely ten minutes at a time. I used to wish them further.
            Have you heard from Mrs Smith and how does my little Cousin do—dear little sensible girl—I loved her.
            The printed letter which you sent to the president has been published in many newspaper and as it deserved has received great applause.— they cannot think what gentlemen should be in France, who could write such a letter as that.
            We have had on every levy day the room very full, once crouded. The order of the day is after asking the president how he does, to regret in a very pathetick manner, the indisposition of Mrs Adams so as to deprive them of the pleasure of her company. Many make the enquiry from a sincere affection and esteem for you, but some do it I am afraid, merely as common place conversation, which they have studied and conned by rote before they enter.
            I went to congress the other day for the first time A gentlemen standing without the bar attracted my attention. Not thinking he was a member, I very innocently asked one, who stood by my side, what scape-gallows he could be pointing to the Gentlemen, he laughed and told me that was Gallatin.
            Has the president ever told you that he has received an address from a volunteer light infantry company, of Hampshire county Massachusetts praying to be organized &c by the name of Lady Adams rangers?

            I thank you for writing me respecting my mother. I am glad that B Palmer is to spend the winter with her I was afraid it would not be so. I have received not a single letter, I have written to my mother. Please to mention it, when you write.
            I can find but very little time to read or write.— they will call me down sometimes twenty times in a forenoon. By the way, a man called the other day, with the Philadelphia magazine & said you owed him for a number. I forget how many. Please to write me what I shall do.
            I am my dear Aunt / Your affectionate nephew

              Wm S Shaw

            If I did not send you such inaccurate, unconnected letters as I do, I should not find time to write any.