Title: From William Smith Shaw to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 5 June 1799
From: Shaw, William Smith
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Sir
Quincy June 5th 1799

I have the honor to enclose to you, by the direction of the President, a letter from General Lincoln with a certificate signed by a number of the most respectable merchants of Boston, recommending Captain Silas Dagget of Martha’s Vineyard, to be keeper of the light house, to be erected on that Island. The president desires me to add that he has seen the man—was pleased with his civility and conversation.
I have the honor to be Sir with respect / your very humble and obedient servant

Wm S Shaw.


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 7 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy June 7th 1799

I return you all the letters of Mr. King & Mr. Humphry’s which were inclosed with your letter of May 30th. Encourage Mr. King I pray you in your letters & instructions to him, to persevere with all the decision, which may be consistent with decency & politeness, in denying the right of British men of war to take from our ships of war, any men whatever & from our merchant vessel any Americans, or foreigners, or even Englishmen. There is no principle under heaven, by which they can justify takeing by force, even from an American merchant vessel, even a deserter from their army or navy, much less private seamen. If they have a right, we have the same. I know not whether the exercise of it, would not be most useful to us. Their merchant’s ships are more numerous than ours & than they have more foreigners—Sweeds, Italians, Portuguese, Spaniards, Danes, Dutch &c than we have. If our men of war had a right to take them we might easily man our navy—but the thing has no principle.


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 7 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy Ma June 7th 1799

I thank you for the details in your favor of the 29th May Captain Truxton has deserved well of his country and will as he ought, have their thanks, as well as yours and mine. But I should have been much easier on account of the safety of our commerce, if he had remained longer in the West Indies. The Merrimack has been detained by contrary winds but I believe is now gone. Talbot has arrived and came up in his boat to see me. I was rejoiced at the sight of him and have full confidence in his capacity & activity. His appointment to the command gives good satisfaction as I am informed.
We shall do nothing with St. Domingo untill we hear again from Stevens. The anihilation of privateering in the island, must be an indispensable condition of future intercourse. We can do nothing but in concert with Maitland & what his reception may be is uncertain. The English in my opinion have made much mischief for themselves as well as for us in that island. The hopes of our merchants, of great profit from the trade, will be found too sanguine & the evils in store seem not to be foreseen.
With great regard &c


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 7 June 1799
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State Philadelphia June 7. 1799.

Since I had the honor to transmit to you Doctor Stevens’ dispatches, relative to the affairs of St. Domingo, they have much engaged the attention of myself and colleagues.
We are all of opinion, that the arret of Roume, the particular agent of the Directory, of the 25th of April, cannot be considered as commensurate with those conditions which in the original instructions to Doctor Stevens were prescribed as the basis of a proclamation for renewing the commerce with St. Domingo. Of this Dr. Stevens was aware; and stated his objections: and then were given to him those private assurances mentioned in his letter, on which he relies, as tantamount to the required terms. But no public act of the American Government can properly rest on private assurances. If there should be an occasion for the government to justify its proceedings, the public act of the Agent of the Directory being insufficient, an appeal must be made to the private assurances. This might not be deemed very honorable for the Government; and if those assurances, which were verbal as well as private, were not evaded, either by denial, or the plea of misconception, they must be made public; which is what the Directorial Agent & Toussaint have desired to avoid.—In fact, if the circumstances of St. Domingo will warrant its actual Government in the measures they propose to adopt, in order to procure the supplies and commercial exchanges which its necessities and well-being demand, they will authorize their frank and public adoption.
It is hoped, however, that all difficulties on the subject above mentioned will be obviated, by the arrangements which General Maitland was to propose to General Toussaint, and in giving efficacy to which Doctor Stevens was to assist. In reference to this event, it has been thought advisable to prepare the draught of a proclamation, to be submitted to your consideration; and if approved, it may be issued without the delay which must attend the subsequent transmission of it to you, and its return to Philadelphia. Such a draught I have now the honor to inclose, in anticipation of the advices which may in a few days be expected to arrive from General Maitland & Doctor Stevens. These advices may perhaps require some alterations in the form of the proclamation; but probably none to vary its principle. You may therefore deem it expedient to direct its being issued, without delay, if the expected advices from St. Domingo should correspond with the arrangements which have been contemplated as the proper basis for a proclamation: the impatience of the merchants, and the great interest of the country in the St. Domingo trade rendering it desirable to prevent every delay which can by any means be avoided.
But Doctor Stevens’ dispatches exhibit some symptoms of indifference on the part of General Toussaint, in regard to a trade with the British, in the prospect of a free trade with the United States; and there is a possibility that the proposed regulations, embracing equally the British and American commerce, may not be adopted. In such an event, it will be an important question, Whether if the British commerce with St. Domingo be excluded, it will be “expedient and consistent with the interest of the United States, to remit & discontinue” the existing “restraints & prohibitions” on the commerce of the United States?
On this question, I beg leave to submit to your consideration the following remarks.
1. The negociation between General Maitland and General Toussaint, when the former withdrew the British troops from St. Domingo, seems to have been the occasion and a principal ground of Toussaint’s assuming the administration of the affairs of the Island, and taking measures to procure the supplies requisite for its support: among these, that of sending an agent to the U. States, with his earnest request that the commercial intercourse might be renewed; and his agents’ giving assurances of protection and safety to our vessels which should be employed in it.
2. By that negociation, the security of the British island of Jamaica was stipulated: its great negro population putting it in jeopardy, in case of an invasion by black troops from St. Domingo. Consequently, if Toussaint should decline admitting the British trade into the ports of St. Domingo, all the apprehensions of the Jamaicans and of the British Government would be excited; and they would naturally resort to all the precautions in their power to shield them from the dreaded calamity: and as the most efficatious, they may endeavour to deprive the people of St. Domingo of the means of annoying them, by interrupting all supplies of provisions, cloathing, stores & vessels, without which the invasion of Jamaica would be impracticable.
3. With such interruptions to our commerce with St. Domingo, involving immense losses to our merchants, the utility of its renewal might well be doubted: or rather it seems too certain that pecuniary considerations should forbid it. The aggregate of the losses would probably surpass the collective profits of the trade.
4. But in this case, a more weighty consideration would oppose the renewal. The commerce once begun, many would persevere in its pursuit. Numerous captures would be the consequence; and as certainly great irritation against the British; and eventually perhaps a war.
5. Another object merits attention. Our southern states, altho’ not equally with Jamaica, are yet in much danger from attempts to excite the blacks to insurrection. And hence it is necessary for us as well as Great Britain, to form such arrangements as shall be calculated, in the best manner human prudence can devise, to guard against the danger to be apprehended from St. Domingo. It seems important that the two nations should be agreed, and concur in the means of their mutual security.
6. By concurrent measures, our commerce with St. Domingo will be uninterrupted and prosperous: General Maitland having engaged that in such case the British cruizers on the coast of that Island (whose number too was to be increased) far from molesting, would aid our own vessels in the protection of our trade. This indeed will be the necessary result of an adoption of the proposed regulations; which are framed in such a manner as to place the commerce of each nation, British and American, with St. Domingo, on a footing equally free.
Such are the objections which have occurred against our renewing a commercial intercourse with St. Domingo, unless the British also should be comprehended. I might indeed have added, that a few intelligent merchants to whom I have mentioned the subject, agree in the opinion, that if the British do not participate in the trade with St. Domingo, our own trade with it will be too precarious to be worth pursuing.
On the other hand, Doctor Stevens was originally instructed to make known to General Toussaint the terms on which our commercial intercourse with St. Domingo might be renewed, without reference to any direct commercial advantages for Great-Britain. And hence another question may arise, What is to be done, if General Toussaint shall be willing to comply with those terms, in relation to the U. States exclusively? It is a question of delicacy and importance. Towards a solution of it, I beg leave to observe—
1. That the public act of the Directorial Agent, Roume, before mentioned, falls essentially short of the terms which Dr. Stevens was to propose; and that no private, verbal assurances of complying with them can be admitted as the basis of any public act of the American Government. The U. States, then, are not yet bound by any formal stipulation whatever to renew the intercourse. Doctor Stevens, it is morally certain, would not, after forwarding his first dispatches, take any new measure, until he should receive answers from his own government, or until General Maitland should arrive with the arrangements concerted with him and the British minister, and the new instructions for the Doctor to assist in carrying those arrangements into effect: and we have reason to conclude that General Maitland arrived at the Cape within a very few days after Doctor Stevens had sent off his dispatches.
2. If after a proffer of terms, and a rejection of them, or their acceptance in a manner inadmissible as the basis of any public act, any circumstances occur which render a fresh proffer of terms incompatible with the interest and welfare of the country, there would seem to be no doubt that such proffer may be withheld, and the contemplated commerce abandoned. But such circumstances have occurred in the present case.—When Doctor Stevens received his first instructions, it was universally supposed here that the British Government had secured for its own subjects a commercial intercourse with St. Domingo; and that our great and only object was to obtain a participation in it, on terms consistent with the act of Congress. In this however we find there was a mistake. We find that the British trade with St. Domingo remained to be arranged: and the measures concerted with General Maitland and Mr. Liston demonstrate how closely, in this business, the interests and safety of the U. States, and of Great Britain & her West India Colonies were understood to be connected.
These and the preceeding considerations have rather inclined us to think it would be inexpedient to renew the commerce but in concurrence with the British. But without forming a definitive opinion on this very important question, it seems proper, that in the vent of a failure of General Maitland’s mission in respect to the British commerce with St. Domingo, Doctor Stevens should be instructed, as promptly as possible, to state candidly to General Toussaint the sentiments of the American Government, & its desire to renew the commercial intercourse; but that if the British are not admitted to a participation in it, very cogent reasons, perhaps insurmountable, may thence arise against its renewal on the part of the U. States. That therefore the Doctor should use his best endeavours to remove the objections of Toussaint to such an admission of British commercial intercourse, & to convince him, that there is no substantial reason why he should not continue for Saint Domingo, during the present war, that armistice which was begun by the convention between him and General Maitland: And probably he may do it, when he shall find that a refusal may hazard the loss of those supplies from the U. States which cannot elsewhere be obtained, and which are essential to the well being of Saint Domingo.
These reflections having been deliberately considered by the heads of departments and the Attorney General, have received their undivided assent; and are now respectfully submitted to the President of the United States.
I have the honor to be / sir, your most obt. servt.
Timothy Pickering


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 8 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy June 8th 1799

I have just received your favors of 30th May & 3d of June. The commissions shall be bestowed as you propose. Mr.Williston and Mr Savage have been to see me & I am so pleased with them that I shall make them midshipman
With great regard


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 8 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy June 8th 1799

The plan of operation in the naval service projected in your second favor of the third of June I like very well.—We must open the intercourse with St Domingo on the best terms we can provided the accounts from Steevens and Maitland will admit of it. I will not dissappoint those islandlers if I can help it. My greatest fears are that Maitland & Toussaint will not agree.
The Constitution will not be ready so soon as you & I wish. Talbot will do all in his power I am convinced
With great regard


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 8 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Sir
Quincy June 8. 1799

I have this moment recd your favour of the 1st.—The Letter you have written to the Collectors appears to be well considerd and I return the Copy approved as well as your plan of a temporary Arrangement for the Expenditure of the Fund for the relief of Sick and disabled Seamen. Castle Island is the most proper Place for Massachusetts and Dr Welsh I believe as good an Appointment as can be made. I have no great Objection to the Marks on the Ensign and pendent. The Yellow Colour however I do not admire: but know not what other Colour would be better. I Shall leave it to you to determine in favour of that or any other, which you may prefer. I return the Commissions Signed for Captn. James Taylor.
I am, with great regard

J. Adams


Title: To John Adams from Daniel McNeill, 10 June 1799
From: McNeill, Daniel
To: Adams, John

Sir—
United States Ship Portsmouth, June 10th 1799—

There is wanted to compleat the warrants of the Ship Portsmouth’s Officers, vizt: for Charles Hall as Sailing master, John Skriggins Carpenter, Thomas King Boatswaine, Robert Dickey Sail maker, Mr. Edmund Andrews, John Prentiss and David McGregore Midshipmen. Mr. Edmund Andrews requests permission of leave of absence to go to Europe to settle his Business for which favour he will be greatly obliged
With great respect— / I am your Excellency’s / Mot. Obt. Hl: St:

Danl McNeill


Title: From John Adams to Daniel McNeil, 11 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: McNeil, Daniel

Sir
Quincy June 11th 1799

I send you the commissions and warrants you requested in your letter of the 10th viz. for Charles Hall sailing master—John Striggins carpenter Thomas King boatswainRobert Dickey sail maker, John Prentiss & David McGregore midshipmen. Mr. Edmund Andrews you may give permission to resign or  if you can possibly spare him leave of absence as he desires. I wish you success & glory & am / your humble servant


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 12 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy June 12th 1799

I return the papers inclosed in your favor of the 4th. relative to the consulship at the Havanna and am very well satisfied with the recommendation of Mr John Moreton, whose commission may be prepared for him when you think fit. As I am preparing to attend the funeral of my esteemed relation & beloved Gov Sumner, I have not time at present to advert to any other matters in your late dispatches. I have the honor to be Sir / your most obedient


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 12 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy June 12th 1799

Inclosed are recommendations of Henry Jackson Knox to be a lieutenant in the Navy & a petition for liberty to Capt. Brown to take some merchant vessels under convoy, which I granted—This petition you may file away.


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 12 June 1799
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State June 12. 1799.

Yesterday I received the inclosed letter from Jacob Lewis, Consul of the U. States at the Isle of France, from whence he has recently returned to Boston with his family. I shall write to him by this mail, and desire him to wait upon you, to give more full information concerning that French Colony; particularly in reference to the anxious wishes of a number of merchants here trading to the East Indies, who imagine that an arrangement may be made with the Government of the Island for a renewal of commerce on terms compatible with the late act of Congress. Without such an arrangement they are apprehensive of numerous losses by the privateers of the Isle of France, which probably have too generally a force superior to that of our East Indiamen.
If you should approve of the proposition, the merchants here would send a vessel, with the public agent to be appointed for the purpose; trusting in such case that you would permit them to put such a cargo on board as would cover the expence of the mission.—The information contained in Mr. Lewis’s letter shows strongly the necessity of expediting the mission, if the plan should be adopted.
I have the honor to be / with great respect, / sir your most obt. servt.

Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 12 June 1799
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State. Philadelphia June 12. 1799.

I have this morning received from Mr. Liston, the minister of his Britannic Majesty to the U. States, a note of which the inclosed, is a copy. I also inclose a copy of the instructions given to private armed vessels, and of the bond entered into by their owners and commanders, to observe them. The penalty in each of the bonds, in the cases of the ship William and brig. Polly, mentioned in Mr. Liston’s note, must be seven thousand dollars. This gives room to inflict an adequate punishment on the offenders: or they may be deprived of their commissions, which are held at the pleasure of the President.
But perhaps the account of their conduct may be exaggerated: and at all events it should be a subject of enquiry. I therefore beg leave to suggest the propriety of committing these papers to Mr. Davis the District Attorney, with a direction to investigate the facts, and report a state of them to you, that a prosecution on the bonds, or a revocation of the commissions, or both, may be ordered, as the case may require. Yet it cannot well be supposed that such rigorous measures would be expected to be taken, seeing Governor Dowdeswell has furnished no legal evidence of the outrage, or insult, complained of. And the commanders of the two letters of March may & probably will urge in their defence, that they only examined the vessel, to ascertain whether she was or was not a French armed vessel, or a captured American vessel in possession of the French.—It is not a singular act for British commanders to break the seals of letters addressed to the Secretary of State of the U. States, & found on board American vessels.
If you approve of the proposed mode of enquiry, you will have the goodness to send the papers to Mr. Davis with a direction to investigate the subject.
I have the honor to be, / with great respect, / sir, your most obt. servt.

Timothy PickeringShip William, 6 guns—17 men
William Mugford, commander
Solomon Towns 2d. officer
Robert Gray, 3d officer
Owned by William Gray jun. of Salem
Brigantine Polly, 6 guns, 12 men 1 boy
James Laskey junr. Commander
Benja: Andrews, 2d. officer
Eleazer Leech, 3d officer
Owned by Robert Hooper of Marblehead.


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 13 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy June 13th 1799

I return you the papers inclosed in your letter of the 1st. I have carefully read the proceedings of the court martial on Ensign David Fero
It will be necessary for the legislature at their next session to make some provisions for cases of standing mute. The best possible jurisprudence in this case in my opinion is, to order the refusal to plead, to be recorded & then proceed to tryal in all respects, as if the defendant had pleaded not guilty. I would not even refuse to hear him in his own defense, or by consell, & would swear and examine all witnesses, & admit every species of evidence in his favor, offered by himself or any of his friends, as freely and fully, as upon the general issue. I should have been better pleased if the court martial had extended all this patience and candor to Mr. Fero. The result would I believe have been the same however and although however I do not see my way clear to confirm the sentence of the court martial, I have no scruple to conform to your opinion and dismiss Ensign David Fero from the service
I have the honor to be Sir your very humble servant.


Title: To John Adams from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 13 June 1799
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Treasury Department June 13th. 1799—

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipts of your letters dated May 27th. & 28th. and Mr Shaws letter dated June 5th. covering recommendations in favor of Noah Pease, Nathaniel Mayhew and Silas Daggot, for the appointment of Keeper of the Light House to be erected on Gay Head—
The Light House is not erected, and there is not an immediate necessity any appointment;—to prevent the trouble of repeated applications it may be however expedient that the decision be now made, upon condition that the salary shall not commence, till services are required.—The Revd Mr Thaxter appears to be anxious to prevent the establishment from being prejudicial to the Indians and on that account has recommended Noah Pease;—with reference merely to the public service, I should suppose that Captain Daggot’s recommendations were entitled to a preference;—if the President is satisfied with the assurances, which he has made to General Lincoln, not to become a retailer, I take the liberty to submit his name, as being entitled to the first consideration.
The Office of Inspector for the 3d survey of South Carolina has become vacant by the death of John Trotter—the enclosed Letters from the Supervisor Daniel Stevens Esquire dated May 18. & 27th. and from the Honble. Jacob  Read Esquire dated May 24th. & 31st. present the names of several Candidates who are well recommended—The pretensions of Eugene Brenan, William Tennant, and Julius Nichols junior appear to be best supported—Mr Tennants local situation constitutes an objection to him;—of Mr Nichols I know nothing more than is to be collected from the Letters;—as Mr Brenan is stated to have served with ability & fidelity, in the Office of Collector and is particularly recommended by the Supervisor—I am inclined to think the preference due to him:—I enclose a blank Commission to be filled up as the President may direct;—at the same time, I take the liberty to say, that if additional important information shall be received before the Commission shall be transmitted, I will submit the matter a second time for consideration.
Attempts are making to draw into question the solidity of the public Credit—I think I may say with confidence, that the credit of the United States is equal to that of any Country in the world, and that it has suffered no recent diminution. Our payments have been punctually made in Holland, and there has never been a momentary hesitation in satisfying any well founded demand on the Treasury. Our Stocks are as high, in Holland as those of any Nation—Our 3 Per Cents bear the same price in London as those of the British Government—The course of Exchange has long been in our favour from every part of Europe—The Certificates for the 8 Per Cent Loan, will not, indeed at the present moment command their nominal value;—this is owing to various causes, but principally to the great demand for money for the East India Trade.—The Loan itself having created a new demand for money, has had a tendency to raise the rate of Interest—when the subscriptions shall have been completed & the Stock have found its natural level, we shall have a criterior for ascertaining the market rate of Interest in the United States.—at that rate only, whatever it may be, will be just to expect future Loans—It is certain that the last Loan was not obtained on disadvantageous terms;—in proof of which assertion it may be alledged, that the Stock formerly issued, has suffered little or no depression—At present the discount on the subscription Certificates, is not greater than has been allowed on the best private Notes, or even on the Post Notes of the Bank in some parts of the Southern States.—The price of all securities must depend on the demand for money, this is great in the United States, owing to the variety of objects to which money can be profitably applied.
The valuations have been completed in the States of Tennessee and New York, and as far as I can judge, the business has been well done.
The Lands in Tennessee are valued at about five millions eight hundred thousand Dollars,—the House Tax must be inconsiderable in a New State, but the Quota will require an assessment of only two and an half mills upon a dollar.
The Houses exceeding one hundred Dollars in value in New York, are valued at upwards of twenty five Millions of Dollars, and the Lands and other Houses &c. at Seventy three Millions—three fifths of the whole tax, will be assessed on the Houses exceeding one hundred Dollars in value and on the Slaves; and about two fifths of the whole Quota will fall on the City and County of New York—The estimate given in some of the papers of the Tax in the State of New York is incorrect.
In the other States from which I have lately heard, the business of the valuations is progressing and in the Northern States will soon be completed—
I have the honor to be / with the highest respect / Sir / Your Most Obedt. Servant

Oliv: Wolcott


Title: To John Adams from Moses Gill, 14 June 1799
From: Gill, Moses
To: Adams, John

Boston, School Street June 14th: 1799—

The Lieutt. Governor presents his dutiful respects to His Excellency President Adams, and begs he will accept of a Family Picture now sent him. Hopes Madam is growing better, and will soon be at Boston.


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 15 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy June 15th 1799

Inclosed is a letter from Cotton Thayer, who is well recommended for a commission as lieutenant of marines on board the constitution. If you please you may send him a commission.
I have the honor to be Sir your servant.


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 15 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Sir
Quincy June 15. 1799

Inclosed is a Petition from John Sylvester for a Pardon, a Copy of the Record of his Conviction, a Petition which he presented to Governor Sumner, and a Certificate and request Signed by a large Number of respectable and Worthy Citizens of Plymouth in his favour.—
My answer to his Relation who brought me the Petition was that the Crime was of so serious a Nature, that, Whatever might be my disposition, I dared not to pardon it, without deliberate Consideration and the best Advice. I promised him however to transmit the Papers to the Secretary of the Treasury and Attorney General and request their Opinions. This Promise I now perform by praying you to take the opinion of the Heads of Departments if you think it necessary, or at least of the Attorney General, and transmitting to me the result of your and their deliberations. If you should recommend a Pardon I request you to Send one, on for signature to, sir / your most obedient Servant
J. Adams


Title: From John Adams to Moses Gill, 17 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Gill, Moses

Quincy June 17th 1799

The President of the U.S. presents his best respects & friendly regards to his Honor the Lieutenant Gov. & begs him to accept of his unfeigned thanks for the very acceptable present of a picture of Mr. Edward Boylston, a character held in veneration by the president from his infancy & a picture which he has a peculiar regard for occasioned by an history of it given him while an undegraduate at colledge by the venerable professor Wigglesworth.


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 17 June 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir.
War Department 17 June 1799.

I have the honour to inclose you, letters from Major General Pinckney under date, the 12th of March 19 & 20th of April, and 9th & 29th of May ulto. These will give you a continued detail of his movements and opinions, since the receipt of his instructions, and situation of things, on part of the Southern frontier. I also inclose copies of my letters to him of the 10th and 13th of June Inst.
With the greatest respect I have the honour to be Sir / Your most obt & hble St

James McHenry


Title: To John Adams from William Alexander Humphrey Graham, 17 June 1799
From: Graham, William Alexander Humphrey
To: Adams, John

To the Honrable John Adams. Esqr. President1799. June Month 17th day

I have spent some considerable time & Propperty in Aiding & Assisting to support Government under your direction—have spent my time in the northern part of the Country—since the first day of August—in Vermont state & in the northern & western part of the Country, for that Purpose. believe Sir you have seen some of the good effects—Acknowldged to your Honour, since that time Sir when or before I came to your Hous to speak with you I expected your Honor had been some Accquain with me but I did not receve any mark of it—But hope I have your Approbation in seeing you. Sir I have money enough & propperty in Circulation but it is out of my Command at Present—& Crave the Benifit of your Assistance in some way to Obtain Credit enough to pay for an. Hundred Puncheons or Hogs heads of W. J. Rum tomorrow as it a matter of Consequence to us the Propperty is mine but wish to another Remittance for the Above mentioned Rum tomorrow Honord Sir your Complyance will Obige us & your Humble servt.

“William Alex H. Graham”wrote in haste & no convencency for writing neither pray excuse the Abrupt style &c—& give me Credit enough to sattisfy the Rabble for an 100 puncheons of Rum.


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 18 June 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir.
War Department 18 June 1799

I think it was mentioned to you, some time last winter, by the Secretary of State, in consequence of a letter he had just received from Mr. King, that Count Rumford intended to visit his native country, at which you seemed pleased, and expressed yourself favourably of his talents.
Mr. King has renewed the subject to the Secretary of State, and in a letter to me, which I have the honour to inclose. As the reference of the subject to me, can only be meant so far as it respects the military department, I beg leave to submit for your consideration, whether it would not be to the advantage of the United States to make such a proposal to the Count, which if accepted, would ensure to the army the full benefits of his skill and experience.
There is still a vacancy of Lt. Colonel, to be filled for one of the Regiments of Artillerists & Engineers. The President is besides, authorised, by the 17 Sect. of “an Act for the better organising of the troops of the United States and for other purposes”, passed the 3d of March ulto, to engage and appoint, distinct from the officers of the corps of Artillerists & Enginerers, two Engineers, with the rank of Lt. Colonel, an to stipulate and allow to them respectively, such compensations, as he shall find necessary and convenient”.
Sect. 9th of the Act to augment the army of the United States and for other purposes” passed the 16 July 1798 also provides for an Inspector of Artillery, to be taken from the line of Artillerists and Engineers, who shall be allowed in addition to his pay in the line 30 Dollars per month and four rations of provisions for his daily subsistence.
Two propositions may be made to the Count resulting from these laws.
1. He may be offered the vacant commission of Lt. Colonel and be made also Inspector of Artillery. Or if he prefers it. 2d. He may be invited to accept of the office of Engineer contemplated in the 17 sect. of the act before recited.
As I consider him to be less of an Engineer than an Artillerist, altho in this I may be mistaken I should think it most adviseable to give a preference to the first proposition. If he accepts of it, he can also superintend the establishment of a military academy which the laws so far contemplate, as to have made provision for books, instruments, and teachers.
At any rate, if the Count should refuse himself to either office, the offer cannot be otherwise than grateful, and if he wanted any stimuli to induce him to be useful to this Country, to the extent of his talents, it might have its effect.
I have the honour to be with the greatest respect / Sir / your most obt / &  hble st.

James McHenry


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 18 June 1799
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State June 18. 1799.

This morning I was honoured with your letter of the 12th, and agreeably to your direction, have had a commission made out for Mr. John Morton as Consul at Havana, and now inclose it for your signature.
All the European Powers having Colonies in the West Indies have hitherto refused the formal admission of Consuls from the U. States. The British Treaty in its 16th article and the Spanish treaty in its 19th allow each of the contracting parties to except from the residence of Consuls such posts as they please. We cannot therefore demand as if right the admission of Mr. Morton at Havana. But the French have an authorized agent there; and for a purpose injurious to the Spaniards as well as to the United States—the sale of prizes carried in there by French corsairs.—If the New Governor of Cuba should refuse to admit formally Mr. Morton in the character of Consul, he cannot refuse to receive him as the Agent of the Unites States, sent to Havana to attend to their interests and those of their citizens doing business there. If therefore you see no impropriety in it, and are pleased to signify your approbation, I will give to Mr. Morton a letter expressing your designation of him to be the Agent of the United States at the Havana.
It has also appeared to me expedient that a letter should be written to the Governor of Cuba, expressive of your expectation of a friendly reception of the public as well private vessels of the U. States, and of all that attention to our rights which justice, the existing treaty, and good neighbourhood demand. The draught of such a letter, now inclosed, is submitted to your consideration. Letters which I have received from Mr. J. M. Yznardi, now at the Havana, have suggested to me the idea. His numbers 14, 15, & 16 I think it necessary to inclose. His zealous attention to the interests of our Citizens, and the provision which he has effected for our sick seamen, appears to merit our warmest thanks. I shall feel happy in being authorized to convey to him your sense of his conduct.
I have the honor to be, / with great respect, / sir, your obt. servt.
Timothy Pickering


Title: From John Adams to Anonymous, 19 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Anonymous

Sir
Quincy June 19th 1799

Inclosed are the two patents for land received by the post yesterday signed by

                            J. Adams


Title: From John Adams to John Davis, 19 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Davis, John

Sir
Quincy June 19th 1799

Inclosed is a letter from the Secretary of State of the 12th of June, a note of the British minister to him of the 11th a copy of instructions for the private armed vessels of the U.S. and of the act further to protect the commerce of the U.S. and a blank copy of a bond.—I pray you Sir to make enquiry into this transaction and to inform the owners of the ships complained of, and make report to me, and also to return me the papers, when you have made the use of them you may have occasion for.
As it is my determination to demand of the British government satisfaction for all insults and injuries, committed by British subjects on American citizen—natural equity as well as sound policy requires, that I should do all in my power to give satisfaction when insults and injuries are committed by American citizens on British subjects, by punishing the authors of them.
With great esteem I am Sir your most / obedient and humble servant


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 19 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy June 19th 1799

I return you the selection of two majors from North Carolina & that of officers for South Carolina and Georgia with the letter of Genls Pinckney & Washington with that of Mr Steele. I am satisfied with these recommendations and approve the selections.—I return the proceedings of the court martial in the cases of the deserters. The absolute necessity of examples in such cases as that of Richard Hunt is very deeply impressed on my mind, and I should not dare to pardon him if the proceedings are all regular. By the Constitution the President has power by and with the advice of the Senate to appoint officers & by the same Constitution the president shall commission all the officers of the United States. A question occurred to me whether the signature of the commission is not the act of appointment, and whether any other evidence of appointment will be admitted by the courts of law—In short whether there can be an officer without a commission? I pray you to lay the proceedings of the court martial and the foregoing constitutional questions before the heads of department and request their opinion. If they are unanimous I shall order the execution. I have interlined six words in the form of the warrant, which I return. It will be worth while to make a new copy. I should be sorry that such an instrument should go out of my hands with my signature to it with any interlineations. If you return a fair copy to me with the advice of your colleagues I shall sign it
I am Sir &c.


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 19 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy June 19th 1799

I received last night your favor of the 12th. which with all its inclosures shall be sent to the Attorney of the district that he may investigate the facts & make report to me. Every complaint of the kind from the British minister shall be treated with great respect and examined with the utmost candor, being from inclination as well as a sense of duty, disposed to cultivate the best understanding, as well as to do ample justice in all cases to his nation.


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 19 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy June 19th 1799

Inclosed is a recommendation of William Jennison from Dr. Jennison of Cambridge to be a consul at St. Petersburg which you will file, with other solicitations for the same appointment.
I have received your favor of June 12th, and have no objection to the proposed mission to the isle of France. I return you Jacob Lewis’s letter, also all the papers from the city of Washington. I pray you to consult the Attorney General and Mr Stoddert, and in concert with them to return such an answer, as you & they may judge proper. My inclination and judgment, as far as I understand the subject, are with Gen. Washington and Mr Thornton.


Title: To John Adams from Henry Knox, 19 June 1799
From: Knox, Henry
To: Adams, John

(Private)
My dear SirBoston 19 June 1799

I flatter myself with the hope that the subject of this note, will not be deemed by you as unreasonable importunity.
My son my only son has been a midshipman in the Navy upwards of a year. Before that period he performed a long voyage to India. He is reputed to be well skilled as a navigator, active as a seaman, in addition to which the experience of three years, appears in the opinion of Capt Nicholson, and the sailing master, to have qualified him as a lieutenant
He has an ardent desire to be promoted. He feels himself so degraded, by circumstances of situation as a midshipman that he continues with extreme impatience in that office. And I am very apprehensive that he will unless he obtains the object of his wish, abandon the pursuit altogether. This circumstance would be to me inexpressibly mortifying. It is far from my desire to injure, or interfere with the rights of others on board the Constitution, however irregular the appointment of some of the junior Lieutenants. But if my son could be appointed a lieutenant in the navy, and be permitted to act as an extra junior Lieutenant on Board the Constitution, or the Boston, as they are soon bound to sea it would be considered as a great favor.
I have the honor to be with perfect Attachment my / dear sir Your sincere and / devoted humble Servant

H Knox


Title: To John Adams from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 19 June 1799
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Treasury Department June 19th. 1799.—

I have the honour to enclose a Letter from the Commissioner of the Revenue dated the 19th. instant, and submit it as my opinion, that the proposals of Mr. Martin Lincoln, for erecting a Light House on Gayhead, are reasonable, and that it is expedient to authorize a Contract conformably thereto.
The Act of Massachusetts requires, that the lands which may be designated as the scite, and for the accomodation of the proposed Light House, be defined by a written instrument, and entered in the Registry of Deeds for Duke’s County. The draft of a suitable instrument has been prepared, & herewith submitted to the President’s consideration.
I have the honour to be, / with the highest respect, / Sir, / your mo. obedt. Servt.

Oliv: Wolcott


Title: To John Adams from the Selectmen of Boston, 20 June 1799
From: Boston, the Selectmen of
To: Adams, John

Boston June 20. 1799—

The Selectmen present their dutiful respects to the President of the United States & request the Honor of his Company on a Visit to Rainsford Island Thursday next—The Company proceed from Faneuil Hall at 8 o’Clock in the Morning—


Title: To John Adams from John Davis, 20 June 1799
From: Davis, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Boston June 20th: 1799

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter of yesterday, with the papers referred to therein.
I shall without delay make the enquiry, which you direct, and make report to you of the facts, that may be ascertained, pursuant to your instructions.
I have the honor / to be with great respect / Sir / Your obedt Servt

Jn Davis


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 20 June 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir.
War Department 20 June 1799

I received this morning a letter from Major General Pinckney dated the 10th Inst. with Cap Taylors report dated the 23 of May Ulto. which I have the honour to inclose, and to request authority to make the exchange of names proposed by the General.
With the greatest respect / I have the honour to be / Sir / Your most obt. / & hble St.

James McHenry


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 21 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy June 21st 1799

Inclosed are very respectable recommendations of Mr George Augustus Cushing to be consul at Havanna. They were presented to me yesterday by Mr. Cushing himself, who appears a genteel man. I told him that I considered Mr. Moreton as appointed. These papers however may be filed in your office & if any thing should happen to Mr. Moreton, Mr Cushing may be considered as a candidate
I have the honor to be Sir your most obedient


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 21 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Sir
Quincy June 21. 1799

In your Letter of the 13th, you hint that Attempts are making to draw into question the solidity of the Public Credit: but you have not explained the particulars and I am at a loss to conjecture the facts which you may allude to.
Public Credit can never be Steady and really Solid without a fixed medium of Commerce. That We have not Such a Medium, you know has been an opinion, for several Years. The fluctuations of our circulating Medium have committed greater Depredations upon the Property of honest Men than all the French Piracies. To what greater Lengths this Evil may be carried I know not. The Massachusetts Legislature are authorizing a Number of new Banks. The Cry is, the immense Advantage to Agriculture! Credit cannot be Solid, when a Man is liable to be paid a Debt contracted to day, for by one half the Value a year hence.
I have the Honor to be / Sir, your humble Sert
J. Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 21 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Sir
Quincy June 21st 1799

In your letter of the 13th. you hint that attempts are makeing to draw into question the solidity of the public credit but you have not explained the particulars and I am at a loss to conjecture the facts which you may allude to.
Public credit can never be steady and really solid without a fixed medium of commerce. That we have not such a medium you know has been my opinion for several years. The fluctuations of our circulating medium have committed greater depredations on our commerce upon the property of honest men, than all the French piracies. To what greater lengths this evil may be caried I know not. The Massachusetts legislature are authorising a number of new banks. The cry is the immense advantage to agriculture Credit cannot be solid, where a man is liable to be paid a debt, contracted to day, by one half the value a year hence
I have the honor to be Sir your humble ser


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 22 June 1799
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir
Department of State June 22. 1799

Yesterday I was honoured with your letter of the 15th covering the proclamation respecting the St. Domingo trade; and last evening a packet from Doctor Stevens & General Maitland, announcing that the arrangements were to far made as to admit of the opening the ports of Cape Francois & Port au Prince on the first of August. That is, vessels previously sailing from the U. States and Jamaica, may on that day enter those two ports, and not before.
The Heads of Departments have been reading the dispatches and considering the subject—and are to meet again presently. I seize the interval to announce thus much; the mail being near closing. By the mail of Monday (the 24th) I shall be able to forward copies of the most important documents. The British merchant vessels are to enter under the flag of a Parlementaire, at present. Colo. Grant is not yet permitted to remain in the Island, nor any other openly as a British Agent.
I have the honor / to be with great respect, / sir yr. most obt. servt.

Timothy Pickering


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 24 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy June 24th 1799

I have received your letter of the 18th and have read Count read Rumford’s letter to Mr. King. For five or six years past I have been attentive to the character of this gentleman, and have read some of his essays. From these, I have formed an esteem for his genius, talents, enterprise & benevolence, which will secure him from me, in case of his return to his native Country, a reception as kind and civil, as it may be in my power to give him. But you know the difficulties those gentlemen have, who left the Country as he did, either to give or receive entire satisfaction. I should not scruple however to give him any of the appointments you mention, & leave it with you to make such proposals to him, through Mr. King, within the limits you have drawn in your letter, as you should think fit. I return Mr King’s letter, & inclose one from Mr. William Williams, a very respectable personage, recommending Rufus Tyler to be an officer in the army.


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 24 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy June 24th 1799

I return the letters of Gen. Pinckney and your answers inclosed in yours of 17th. There is no occasion for any comments on my part. I cannot refrain however from expressing a high gratification in the intelligence activity and zeal exhibited by the Gen. and my entire satisfaction with your answers.


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 24 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy June 24th 1799

I have received your letters of 17 & 18th. Lieutenant Beale it is true is a young man of 26 or 27, but he has been fourteen years at sea. His conduct, since the ship arrived here, has been very attentive & faithful to his duty.
If Talman and Dobell are appointed what are you to do with Hull & Hamilton. Do you give Talman & Dobell rank before them? Neither Hull nor Hamilton are older than Beale or better qualified for first Lieutenant. I wish you had informed me whether Talbot had advised these appointments & who recommended them from Boston.
I am with great regard


Title: To John Adams from Elbridge Gerry, 24 June 1799
From: Gerry, Elbridge
To: Adams, John

Dear
Cambridge 24th June 1799

I inclose the remarks, which I proposed to make, when I had the honor of paying my last respects to you. The delay has been owing, in a great measure, to sickness in my family, but it cannot be attended with any ill consequences. I shall wait on you soon, with the information for explaining such parts of the curious Journal of General Martial, relating to myself, as you was pleased to communicate to me, & in the interim, remain Dear Sir, with every sentiment of respect & attachment your most obedt & very / huml sert

E Gerry


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 24 June 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir.
War Department 24 June 1799.

The following names appear best supported, for medical appointments to the 13th or Lt. Col. Taylors Regiment. vz.
Joseph Trowbridge. Recommended by Lt. Colonel Taylor
Timothy Pierce Litchfield. Do. by Genl. Tracy.
John Spalding, by a number of respectable characters.
Should these Doctors be acceptable, I request your authority to announce to them their appointments: At the same time, as I expect every day, to hear, either that Mr. Spalding is agreeable to Col Taylor or that he prefers some other person as mate, I pray also to be authorised to make the substitution.
I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect Sir / Your most ob St.

James McHenry


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 24 June 1799
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State Philadelphia June 24. 1799.

On Saturday the 22d I had the honor to inform you that dispatches had been received the preceeding evening from Dr. Stevens and General Maitland, relative to the opening of trade with St. Domingo; and I now inclose copies of them. They will require some variations or rather additions, in the form of the proclamation, which will be made with the advice of the heads of departments. The idea which has occurred respecting the promulgation of the proclamation is, that printed copies should be sent by post to all our ports, and so ordered in the times of forwarding them, that all may get notice as nearly as may be at the same period, and thus have an equal advantage in preparing their voyages to St. Domingo. The probability however is, that the throng of adventurers, at the first, and will disappoint the hopes of most of them, by glutting the markets.
Doctor Stevens refers to articles 9 & 10 in the secret convention between Generals Maitland & Toussaint: but only 8 articles appear in the copy transmitted by the Doctor. I have mentioned this circumstance to Mr. Liston, that if his copy from Maitland is complete, he may favour me with a copy.
I have the honor to be / with great respect / sir your most obt. servt.
Timothy PickeringList of papers inclosed
1. Dr. Stevens’ letter to the Secy. of State, of June 7. 1799
2. His documents numbered from 1 to 8 beginning with his letter of May 23d. to Genl. Maitland, and ending with No. 8, regulations for the country trade.
3. Dr. Stevens’ letter of May 12 to commanders of American armed vessels.
4. Toussaint’s printed answer to the calumnies of Rigaud.
5. Genl. Maitlands letter to the Secretary of State, dated May 23d.
Note, The list of American vessels which had entered the port of Cape Francois from January to June, transmitted by Dr. Stevens, contained the names of sixteen.
The quantities of the produce, noted on the back of the list, as exported in 1798, from the Cape, are 3,588,460 lbs sugar—4,174,185 lbs coffee—and 12766 lbs cotton.


Title: To John Adams from Arthur St. Clair, 24 June 1799
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Adams, John

Sir
Cincinnati 24 June 1799

I have been honoured with your very obliging Letter of the 18th. May which arrived here at a time when I was absent on an excursion to Pennsylvania in order to bring my family to this Country, and obviate the necessity of the like in future.
The approbation you have been pleased to bestow on the Pamphlet which I took the liberty to enclose to you, could not be received without great satisfaction, and it would imply a want of both sensibility and good manners not to acknowledge it—My intention was good, but I am truly happy that the execution could give pleasure to so excellent a Judge–It has however, Sir, drawn upon you the trouble of perusing another small performance, published in numbers in the newspaper at the time the cry against the alien and sedition Laws was loud—The reference made, in the considerations of Mr. Nicholas’s Letter, to those publications caused a demand for them that the Printer could not satisfy, and I thought it might do some good to have them republished in a different shape. I beg the favor that you will be pleased to accept a Copy as a token of my respect. Although I was very sensible that a weak advocate often hurts a good cause, and that the Subject must necessarily lead me into a path I was but little accquainted with, it appeared to be necessary to attempt to check the current the course of the current, which sometimes a very slight obstruction will effect when it has risen to a considerable height, and I have had the satisfaction to see that effect produced in a good degree.
With the Sentiments of perfect Respect I have the honor to be / Sir, / Your obedient humble Servant

Ar. St. Clair


Title: From John Adams to George Little, 25 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Little, George

Sir.
Quincy June 25th 1799

It has been represented to me that Capt Little & his lieutenants would cordially receive Mr Knox as a fourth or an extra Lieutenant on board of the Boston. If this representation is just, it would be agreeable to the president of the United States, that Cap Little should receive on board the Boston frigate temporarily & untill further orders, Mr. Knox as an extra or volunteer lieutenant.
With great esteem I am Sir your most obedient


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 25 June 1799
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Navy Department 25 June 1799

Agreeably to your Letter of the 19th. instant, which I had the honor to receive this morning, I enclose a Letter & commission for Cotton Thayer, to be a 2nd Lieutt. of Marines, which after receiving your Signature may be forwarded to Capt. Talbot.
I have the honor to be, / with the highest esteem & respect / sir, / yr most obed sert

Ben Stoddert


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 25 June 1799
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department June 25. 1799

I have the honor to enclose Sixty blank Warrants for your Signature.—
The inferior Officers of the Delaware Pickering Scammel, Frigate United States and vessels to the southward together with the different midshipmen formerly appointed many of whom had not received Warrants, have nearly taken the whole of those formerly received from you.—
The resignations and changes among the inferior Officers of which there are a great many in every Vessel, are so frequent, and the demand for new Warrants and Commissions so sudden, that it often happens, that there is not time to communicate to you, without delaying the Vessels.—On such Occasions I give the Commissions, trusting that you will pardon the liberty I take, for the motive.—
I do not presume to do this with more important appointments, except in cases of indispensable necessity
I have the honor to be.— /  with the highest respect & esteem /  sir Yr. Most Obed Servt

Ben Stoddert.


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 26 June 1799
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State June 26. 1799

Mr. Barclay is here, and produces an original letter from Lord Grenville, informing him that His Britannic Majesty had appointed him his Consul General for the Eastern States, in the room of Sir John Temple, and that his commission would be sent to him; desiring at the same time that he would repair to New-York. The letter is dated in January; and as the Commission is not yet arrived, there is reason to suppose it may have miscarried. In the mean time Mr. Barclay is desirous of entering on the duties of his office; and Mr. Liston has again solicited that he might be allowed to do it.—I have therefore thought it expedient to lay before you the form of an Exequatur adapted to the circumstances, omitting any reference to a commission. When the Commission shall arrive, a new Exequatur may be issued in the usual form.
I have the honor to be / with great respect / sir your obt. servt.

Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 26 June 1799
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department 26th. June 1799

I do myself the honor to enclose a Letter from John C. Jones Esquire recommending Capt. Joseph Saunders, for a Lieutenancy in the Navy—and a Letter to Capt. Saunders, enclosing his commission, which will require your signature should you think fit that the Appointment should be made—As Lieutenants will soon be wanting in that country, I should presume from Mr. Jones’ representation, that Capt. Saunders is a fit character for the Appointment.
I have the honor to be with the / highest respect and Esteem, / Sir, / yr. most obed. Sert.

Ben Stoddert


Title: Proc. Open. Trade W/ Cert. Pts. Of St. Domingo, 26 June 1799
From:
To: Adams, John

					26 June, 1799.

				Whereas, by an act of the Congress of the United States, passed the 9th day of February last, entitled “An act further to suspend the commercial intercourse between the United States and France, and the dependencies thereof,” it is provided, that at any time after the passing of this act, it shall be lawful for the President of the United States, if he shall deem it expedient and consistent with the interest of the United States, by his order, to remit and discontinue for the time being the restraints and prohibitions by the said act imposed, either with respect to the French republic, or to any island, port, or place, belonging to the said republic, with which a commercial intercourse may safely be renewed; and also to revoke such order, whenever in his opinion the interest of the United States shall require; and he is authorized to make proclamation thereof accordingly;

And whereas the arrangements which have been made at St. Domingo for the safety of the commerce of the United States, and for the admission of American vessels into certain ports of that island, do, in my opinion render it expedient and for the interest of the United States to renew a commercial intercourse with such ports;Therefore I, John Adams, President of the United States, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the above recited act, do hereby remit and discontinue the restraints and prohibitions therein contained, within the limits and under the regulations here following, to wit:1. It shall be lawful for vessels which have departed or may depart from the United States, to enter the ports of Cape François and Port Republicain, formerly called Port-au-Prince, in the said island of St. Domingo, on and after the first day of August next.2. No vessel shall be cleared for any other port in St. Domingo than Cape Francois and Port Republicain.3. It shall be lawful for vessels which shall enter the said ports of Cape François and Port Republicain, after the thirty-first day of July next, to depart from thence to any port in said island between Monte Christi on the north and Petit Goave on the west; provided it be done with the consent of the government of St. Domingo, and pursuant to certificates or passports expressing such consent, signed by the consul-general of the United States, or consul residing at the port of departure.4. All vessels sailing in contravention of these regulations will be out of the protection of the United States, and be moreover liable to capture, seizure, and confiscation.Given under, &c.

					John Adams.


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 27 June 1799
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir.
Department of State Philadelphia June 27. 1799.

I have the honor to inform you, that on considering, with the Secretary of the Treasury, the mode of communicating your proclamation for renewing the commercial intercourse between the United States and St. Domingo, we have concluded to transmit copies thereof  by mail, as follows.
To-morrow, Friday, to send off those for the District of Maine, for the States of Georgia, South and North Carolina and the Ports on James River, including Norfolk.
On Saturday, to forward those for the residue of Virginia, and for New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island
On Monday, those for Connecticut:
On Tuesday, those for New York, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland:—and
On Wednesday (July 3rd:) to deliver here those for the State of Pennsylvania.
If there had been more time, we should have made greater differences in the periods of transmitting the proclamation. As it is, the merchants in general will have only about twenty five days to fit their vessels for sea, and to make their voyages to St. Domingo, to arrive on the first of August.
The Secretary of the Treasury transmits a circular letter to the Collectors explanatory of the Proclamation and the arrangements to which it refers:—printed copies of both I have now the honor to enclose.
I shall send copies of the proclamation to the Governors of States, and to the Judges, District Attornies and Marshals of the United States.
I am, Sir, / With great respect / Your most obed. servt.

Timothy Pickering


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 28 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy June 28th 1799

I have received yours of the 20th & return the letter of Gen. Pinckney & Capt Taylors report & readily consent to the exchange of names proposed by the General


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 28 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

107
Sir
Quincy June 28th 1799

I have read with pleasure your favor of the 19th. I yesterday sent to the post office your letter to Capt Talman, of whose intelligence, activity, bravery & property I receive very handsome accounts. The letter to Capt Dobell I have not yet sent. In truth I have not yet heard a good character of him. On the contrary he is very unfavorably represented.
I am in much anxiety about the constitution. If Beale is removed Hull who is a younger man will be first lieutenant & although I have a very good opinion of him, I see not why Beale should be removed, to make way for him. If we could get Prebble or some other able Capt. to accept the place of second Captain, a practice common in the English navy, I should think it would be better to leave Beale, Hull Hamilton & Ferry in the order they hold as lieutenants.
I am &c.


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 28 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Sir
Quincy June 28th 1799

I return you all the papers inclosed in your favor of the 19th. The proposal of Mr. Martin Lincoln is approved & the written instruments defineing the lands for the accomodation of the light house are signed / by Sir your humble servant


Title: To John Adams from Samuel H. McFetrich, 28 June 1799
From: McFetrich, Samuel H.
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir,
Greensburg  28th June 1799

Permit sir, as a Son, of one who fought, and bled, for the federal revolution, to address You, as one that is a sincere friend, of yours; and of the federal party. Sir, I find that since you have had the honer, to be the chief magistrate of the people; that you have acted in wisdom, and with impartiality; and you are worthy of filling that chair, as president.
My wish, is to you, long life; happiness, and wisdom, which you have had, since you have filled the seat of honor,.—
My heart bleeds with resentment, when I behold usurpers, would wish to invade our country; when honored Sir you have taken, all the means in your power; to preserve peace, let me presume to Say, sir, that they deserve rotten the fruits of their labour, (France) as they have done every thing which is diabolical, unjust, and impolitick
Permit none Sir to ask you, if you should think me worthy of your honors attention, to grant, me either in an office military, or civil naval, as my father was before me, during all the last war, and Sir if  you should not think proper, rather than I would stay back, I would defend it on boat but I hope your honour will grant it—And I shall ever be true.
I am a true American, born in Philadelphia, by father was a captain in the navy during the last war, (J. McFetrich) and if I should  have the honor, of that now, to be conveyed upon me, I should ever be a true soldier, and I should wish you if it is not too, much trouble, to send me, an answer as Soon as possible.
I am Sir, with every respect, / for your peace, and happiness,

            Saml. H: McFetrich, Esqr

PS. Please, Sir to excuse this letter, becaus it was done in haste and I presume to say, an answer in a short time will be granted I should wish it not to be published—But just as your honor pleases,
              S H McF


Title: To John Adams from William Vans Murray, 28 June 1799
From: Murray, William Vans
To: Adams, John

Sir,
28. June 1799

Meeting with a safe hand going to London the other day I did myself the honour of sending to you through Mr. King a pamphlet written lately by Boulay (de la Meurthe) of the 500. It is a very remarkable work—a view of the causes of the English Revolution by Cromwell & of its failure. He forces the lines of events when they run at all together into a parallel—& to my mind absolutely with a view of showing to all France that it is impossible for them to do with anything short of a Restauration & a limitted monarchy—Had this work been from an Emigré—or even a moderate ci-devant restored to confidence—or being by Mr. B. had he been avoided by his large party & his work denounced, though its intrinsic merit & truth would not be less, yet as an Indication, it would not have been worthy of your attention. But B. is as it were at the head of the violent party who are 9.10ths of the councils—he is still supported by his party—The work was published before the 17th. when they made the attack on the Directory by dismissing Treilhard—& forcing Merlin & Le Peaux, that wretched botanical sophist, to resign—and the work is rather a beckoning along the only path that can lead to repose & safety, and not a warning—
It is impossible to foresee what such men will do—& how far the existing war may delay or shape the restauration—but I do think Sir that little but Jealousy between the parties, the fear that all the merit should belong to one set—retards very active measures for the monarchy which appears at last to me indeed to be approaching—yet, obscurely—& timidly & by tacks rather than direct courses, but, with much probability.
I have the honour to be with profound & / affectionate respect, Sir yr. mo. ob. hble svt.


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 29 June 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy June 29th 1799

I received but last night your favor of the 18th. I return the commission signed for Mr John Moreton, as consul at Havanna—the copy of your projected letter to the Govenor, to which I see no objection, & all the letters & papers of Mr. Iznardi. Considering the conduct of Mr Iznardi, as represented in his own letters, it has been zealous & meritorious, although there are marks of credulity. But his conduct is not represented to me in so high a light I see no occasion for censure, but should wish to know Capt Decaturs opinions sentiments, before I express very formal thanks. If you pay his bill and applaud his zeal, it will be enough. I know not how to credit the death, of three hundred Americans in so short a time.
I hope Mr. Moreton will exert himself. I am sure we ought to have an able as well as faithful consul of that place


Title: To John Adams from John Cruft, 29 June 1799
From: Cruft, John
To: Adams, John

Sir
Boston June 29 1799

Inclosed is the letter as well as an extract of mine, which were forwarded to the secretary of the Navy in Decr. last, by my Brother respecting my appointment, at which time I had not the Knowledge of Lieutenants, ranking equall, which I hope your excellency will excuse, as I have this day forwarded on to the secretary, the oath of allegiance which I have subscribd my name to. I have the / Honor to be / Sir / Yr. mt. Obt. Hle. St.
John Cruft


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 29 June 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir.
War Department 29 June 1799

The inclosed plan, for connecting the different parts of our military system, in whatever regards the providing and issuing supplies for the army, has been reported to me by Major General Hamilton, and refered to the Secretary of the treasury who has verbally approved thereof. The plan appears to me a good one. It comprises such of the regulations as were found useful and necessary during the revolutionary war, with some additions to our present system.
Being a nation, and not of the lowest order, there are three  things essential to the maintenance of our proper grade among the powers of the earth. 1st an army, and means adequate to its support. 2d. A system calculated to keep its wants regularly supplied. 3d. Genius in the general who commands it. If we can combine these three, with a navy, and I hope we can, we shall have nothing to fear from without or within.
I have the honour to be with the greatest respect Sir / Your most obt & hble St.

James McHenry


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 29 June 1799
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State June 29. 1799

I have just received your letter of the 24th.—During the late session of Congress, Mr. Thatcher spoke to me once or twice, proposing Mr. Savage for the agent of the U. States at Jamaica; and left with me a letter from Mr. Savage on the subject. This letter was mislaid; and the business postponed. However, information of the impress of our seamen on that station, and the suffering of the sick, induced me to write to Mr. Savage, requesting his attention to them, & promising a reimbursement of his expences. And to enable him to apply for the release of the impressed men, I thought it proper that he should have a formal authorization: for which purpose I sent him the inclosed. I will now send him an appointment as Agent of the U. States, generally, to enable him to assist and protect our merchants and their interest, as well as our seamen, expressing the same to be in pursuance of your orders.
I am very respectfully / Sir your obt. servant

Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 29 June 1799
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State June 29. 1799.

The southern mail has just brought me a letter from Governor Davie, in answer to mine inclosing his commission as one of the Envoys to the French Republic. He desires me “to assure you, that whenever you shall deem it proper that the Envoys should proceed on the business of their appointment, his acceptance of the commission may be expected.” He also desires me “to present to you his thanks for this mark of your confidence and attention.”
I have the honor to be, / with great respect, / Sir, your most obt. servt.

Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 29 June 1799
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Depart. 29. June 1799.

I am honored with your letter of the 24h. Inst—In consequence of which I now enclose a letter I recd. from Capt Talbot on the subject of his Officers—
Not deeming it proper to send on a second Captain to Act on board the Constitution—and not having the power of sending on to Act as first Lt., a fit person older in comn. than Lt. Beale. I saw no way of getting things right in that Ship, but to remove Lt. Beale into another; & to propose the appointment of two other Lts. who have been repeatedly recommended by Mr Higginson, as the best Men, willing to enter the Service as Lts—to rank after Lts Hale & Hamilton.
Tullman lost his arm on board of the Trumbull, in an Action, in which it is said he distinguished himself—Doble I saw—He appeared to be a fit man to be a Lt.—and he also has had experience on board of armed Ships.
I have the honor to be with the highest respect & esteem / sir yr. most Obed Servt.

            Ben Stoddert

            I have advice from Mr. Higginson, & from Talbot, that the Constitution will be ready for Sea early in July. I shall send on Instructions by Mondays mail. I have sent the original of Talbotts letter, (which he meant as confidential) not having time to get it copied for this mail.


Title: To John Adams from Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 29 June 1799
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Sir
Treasury Department June 29th 1799—

By an Act of Congress passed on the 25th. of February 1799. entitled “An Act respecting Quarantine & Health Laws” it is directed “That there shall be purchased or erected, under the orders of the President of the United States, suitable Warehouses, with Wharves, & enclosures, where Goods & merchandize may be unladen & deposited from every Vessel which shall be subject to Quarantine or other restraint, pursuant to the Health Laws of any State, as the safety of the public revenue and the observance of such Health Laws may require.”
The security of the Revenue requires that certain buildings should be erected near New York & Philadelphia and I have taken measures for collecting impartial and judicious opinions from the Officers of the Customs, and of Health, also of Merchants & Insurers on the subject; the results of which are enclosed.—
The difference in the first expence between erections of wood or of brick or stone is not very considerable and as property of great value will be deposited at these establishments, I am of opinion that the erections ought to be of permanent materials.—
I respectfully submit the proposals now transmitted and request permission for carrying them into execution.—
I have the honour to be / with the greatest respect / Sir, / your mo. obedt. servt.

Oliv: Wolcott


Title: To John Adams from Daniel Leonard, 30 June 1799
From: Leonard, Daniel
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
N. York 30 June 1799

Will you permit me to address you in the stile of our former familiarity? My heart recognises all its former friendship and I flatter myself you sometimes recollect with pleasure our professional intimacy. I had promised myself the honor of again waiting on you before I returned to Bermuda, but was obliged to come to this city with all diligence in order to avail myself of a passage in an armed vessel  recommended by Govr. Beckwitts. My son will have the honor of delivering this. My respects, if you please to your Lady.
I am with the highest esteem / and respect, your most humble / Servant

Danl Leonard


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, June 1799
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State ca. June 1799

I have received this morning a letter from the Secretary of the Northwestern Territory, informing that the reports propagated in the news-papers of Indian depredations in the two western counties of the Territory & in Shelby county in Kentuckey, are utterly destitute of foundation.
I inclose a letter which came to hand yesterday under a cover from a Christopher McPherson at Norfolk.
A letter received this week from Andrew Ellicott Esqr. dated the 22d. of May, advised me that he had met Colo. Hawkins at Pennsacola, and that they had held a conference with the Creeks, who were perfectly peaceable & willing that the running of the boundary lines should proceed.
I am with great respect / sir your most obt. servt.

Timothy Pickering


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 1 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy July 1st 1799

I have received your two letters of 25 June and return you all the papers inclosed.—If you believe Fonda has a shade in his favor, you are at liberty to appoint him. He is to me a stranger. Fowler has been presented to me as an old officer and a man of property. I have read all the recommendations & approve of your list for the 7th. 8 & 9 regiments. If any of the surgeon’s mates should refuse you may fill their places without further reference to me.


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 1 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy July 1st 1799

I return you the recommendations inclosed in your favor of the 25th of June & approve of the medical appointments, proposed by you and authorize you to make the necessary substitutions as you desire. Indeed in capacity double at least, you are better qualified to judge in these cases than
J. Adams


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 1 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy July 1st 1799

I am much pleased with your project for the employment of the United States and Constitution explained in your favor of the 25 June & am willing you should unite the Boston with them but mean not to enjoin it.


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 1 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy July 1st 1799

According to your request in your favor of 24th June, I return to you the commission for Timothy Newman to be a master commandant in the navy


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 1 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy July 1st 1799

I return signed all the blank warrants inclosed in your favor of 25th. June, and pray you to use them as you have done the former ones.


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 1 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy July 1st 1799

I have sent your letter, with the commission inclosed, signed to Capt Talbot as you proposed in yours of 25 June.


Title: From John Adams to Silas Talbot, 1 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Talbot, Silas

Sir
Quincy July 1. 1799

I do myself the Pleasure to inclose a Letter from the Secretary of the Navy to you with your Commission, to which I know you will do Honor. I wish you all the Success and Glory in the Enjoyment of it, which you can possibly wish yourself. With great / Regard your most humble / Sert

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Silas Talbot, 1 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Talbot, Silas

Sir
Quincy July 1st 1799

I do myself the pleasure to inclose a letter from the Secretary of the Navy to you with your commission, to which I know you will do honor. I wish you all the success & glory in the enjoyment of it, which you can possibly wish yourself
With great regard your most humble


Title: To John Adams from Silas Talbot, 1 July 1799
From: Talbot, Silas
To: Adams, John

on board the Ship Con Constitution 1 July 1799.

If it should be the Pleasure of the President of the united States, or the Secretary of the Navy, to place Lieut. Knox as the Junior, or an Extra Leiutenant either Temporarily, or Perminently It would be exceptable to to me.

Silas Talbot


Title: From John Adams to Alexander Hamilton, 2 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir
Quincy July 2. 1799

Dr Daniel Parker of Norton introduced to me by General Cobb will have the Honour to deliver you this Letter. The Case of his Son is a very unfortunate one, and I beg Leave to introduce him to your kind offices. If the young Gentleman can be discharged with Propriety I am desirous it Should be done or if he has dispositions and qualifications for any thing better than the station of a common Soldier, I wish he might have it.
I am Sir with much respect / your most obedient Servant

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 2 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy July 2d 1799

I think I have not answered particularly your favor of the 4th June. The letter of Mr. Adams to me shews by its number, that seven precedeing letters have miscaried or at least not arrived. His dispatches to you have probably not been more fortunate. I return you the letter from Mr. Murray.


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 2 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy July 2d 1799

I now return all the papers inclosed in your letter of May 29th with two letters from Gen Toussaint to me which you had previously received opened & read. I agree with you that they ought to be filed in the office.


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 2 July 1799
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department 2. July 1799.

Having information that Capt Little of the Boston will be ready for Sea, by the 10 Inst— I have the honor to enclose for your perusal, his Instructions.
It having been determined, not to let it be known any where, until it could be known every where, that two ports in St. Domingo were to be open to our Trade, I have calculated Capt Littles Instructions, so that he is not to know his destination until he leaves Boston, lest others might avail themselves before their time of the knowledge of these Ports being opened,.
I have the honor to be / with the highest respect & / esteem sir Yr. Most Obed / serv.

Ben Stoddert


Title: From John Adams to John Coffin Jones, 3 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Jones, John Coffin

Sir
Quincy July 3d 1799

I pray you to convey the inclosed letter after you have read it & sealed it to Capt Saunders & am Sir with great esteem your most obedient.


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 3 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy July 3d 1799.

I have received your letter of June 26th. & return the Exequatur for Mr Barclay signed.—Whatever irregularity there may be in this I suppose it may be justifyed by a particular regard to Mr Liston & Mr. Barclay as well as by an earnest desire to cultivate a good understanding with their government


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 3 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy July 3d. 1799

Inclosed is an extract of a private letter from Gov Wentworth to Mr. McDonald the British consul at Boston. You may shew it confidentially to Mr. Liston & your colleagues. It is so consistent with all our intelligence from St Domingo, that it made an impression upon me.


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 3 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy July 3d. 1799

I have signed the commission for Saunders, to be a lieutenant in the Navy, & sent the letter to him inclosed in yours of 26 June to Mr Jones to be conveyed to him


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 3 July 1799
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department. 3 July 1799.

I have this Day sent on to Capt Talbott, his Instructions, to proceed to Norfolk—where he will join Capt Barry & receive further orders.—
Capt Barry sailed yesterday—the Delaware will be out next Tuesday, & the Scammel about the same time.
I have the honor to be / with the highest respect & esteem / sir Yr most obed Servt.

Ben Stoddert


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 3 July 1799
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Navy Department 3rd July 1799

I do myself the honor to enclose a Letter to Capt Little, covering Warrants for
Saml BullenSaml. G. Jerald} to be Midshipmen
Jno G NorwoodEdward Durant—GunnerJames Potts—BoatswainJames Howe—Carpenter
These Gentlemen are recommended in a Letter just received from the Committee at Boston, & are intended for that Frigate, which I hope is on the eve of Sailing—Their Warrants, if you think proper to appoint them, will require your signature, & will be immediately wanted.
I have the honor to be, with the greatest / respect & Esteem sir, / yr most obedt hbl servt.

Ben Stoddert


Title: To John Adams from Silas Talbot, 3 July 1799
From: Talbot, Silas
To: Adams, John

Sir
On board Frigate Constitution, July 3rd. 1799

In obedience to what I conceived to be your wish, when last I had the honor of seeing you, I have made such enquiry— with respect to the Characters of Captain’s Tallman, and Double, as my circumstances would admit of— Being closely confined to the Ship, I have not had that oportunity to gain a very general knowledge respecting them. But from all I have learned; I was confident that they would not suit me, or be usefull as Officers on board the Ship I now command— Capt. Little of the Boston informed me, (but somewhat confidentially) that he was most perfectly acquainted with Capt. Tallman and says that he possesses the worst of dispositions, tho’ at first acquaintance he seems pleasing: that no man ever carried worse command, or made more confusion with a crew than he did in common on board his own Ship. That he could had him as a sailing Master, on board the Boston— But knowing him well, he did not choose to have him, and said that he lost his Arm last War, when he was a Midshipman, and that he was never higher in rank.
And that as to Doble he knew nothing.— Captain Sever informed me that he knew Doble personally, and that by common report he was a very dissipated man, that he was lately mate of an India-man, commanded by Capt. Kithcart in the employ of Tommy Russel deced., that the Capt. died outward bound: and the business of the Voyage devolved on Double, who spent nearly the whole Cargo, and ruin’d the Voyage.— Something like the same information, I have had from others, respecting Capt Double these accounts from so good Authority, made such an impression on my mind, that I did not wish to have them on board the Ship with me; and as your Excellency was pleased to say that I should have such Officers as should be most agreeable to me, and as no time was to be lost, in completeing the Ship for Sea, I wrote to Captain John Hacker of New York, (who has been employd for many Years, as Master of an Indiaman: was last War a Midshipman in our Navy, and well known to be an expert Seaman) to come on to Boston; that I would endeavor to procure him a Lieutenancy, on board the Constitution, whether he will come, or not, I have yet to learn. But think it likely that Captain Truxton has procured him a birth, or given him encouragement to go in the Insurgent: as I learn that he offered to make him 1st. Lieut of that Ship, when in the west-Indies: But Capt. Hacker then having a Ship under his charge could not except the Offer.— I also wrote another Letter to Captain Edward Boss of Rhode-Island to the same Effect; Capt Boss was some years when young, in the British Navy, and after that he was in diferent Ships of War, nearly the whole of our Revolution— but principally with Capt. Babcock in the Mifflin where he was often in Action— Capt. Boss is now arrived in Boston in Consequence of my Letter— I had concluded that my Lieuts. should be arranged as follows, Lieuts. Hull, Hamilton, Collins, Hacker, & Boss, the three first are now in Service, all those Gentlemen are Seamen; and the three last mentioned have seen very considerable active service, and have been in hard fought Battles, which to my mind is a consideration of much weight.
I would have done myself the Honor of waiting on Your Excellency on the Subject of my address this day, instead of writing, but have no Commissioned officer on board to leave the Ship in charge with, and there is much business on board to be attended too, at this time.— Which I hope will be deemed a sufficient apology.—
I have the Honor to be with perfect respect / Sir / Yr. Obdt. Hble. Servt.

Silas Talbot


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 5 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy July 5th 1799

Last night I received the two letters inclosed dated Natchez 2d May & 10th August from David Fero, ensign third regiment. I pray you to inform me if you have any official information, relative to the subject, & to report to me your opinion what is proper to be done.


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 5 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

PrivateSirQuincy July 5. 1799

I have recd. your private Letter of June 27 and approve the Alterations in the Proclamation alluded to in it.

J Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 5 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy July 5th 1799.

I have received two letters from you of the 29th June—one  concerning Govenor Davie which I am glad to see tho it requires no answer—the other relative to Mr Savage in Jamaica to whom I am glad you have determined to send authority as agent


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 5 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy July 5th 1799

I have received your private letter of June 27 & approve the alterations in the proclamation alluded to in it.


Title: From John Adams to William Smith, 5 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Smith, William

July 5th 1799.

The President of the United States, requests the Pleasure of Mr. Smith’s Company to Dine, on thursday next, at ½ past 2 o’clock.

An answer is requested.


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Stoddert, 5 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Sir
Quincy July 5th 1799

We shall never get the constitution to sea, by any means that I know of. After much enquiry I found no body particularly accquainted with Talman, tho many knew him. All agreed that he was a man of property & respectable character. I accordingly sent on by the post your letter to him with his commission. Now I find he is not liked. I desired Talbot to make enquiry—the result you have in the letters inclosed from him. I shall not put Talman into the Constitution. Of Dobell I have not found one soul to speak well. To him I have not sent the commission and I shall not till I hear some better account of him.—I sent your letter to Talbot with his commission in as handsome a letter from myself as I could pen but he has returned the commission, which I enclose & pray you to return to me with the other. I will do all in my power to persuade him to serve, but I expect no success.—I have no objections to Hull and Hamilton. Collins, Acker & Bass, I have no knowledge of but would receive them on Talbots recommendation if he would commend them.


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 5 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Sir
Quincy July 5. 1799

I have recd your favour of June 29, and have read the Proposal inclosed in it from the Collectors of Phyladelphia and New York and request you to carry them into Execution. I perfectly agree with you in your preference of Brick to Wood. I return you Mr. Latimers and Mr. Sands’s Proposals.
J Adams


Title: To John Adams from Robert Leslie, 5 July 1799
From: Leslie, Robert
To: Adams, John

To his Excellency The President of  the United States of America
Sir
London July 5th 1799

Mr. King, as well as several other Gentlemen from America, having informed me that several improvements were yet wanting on the present method of Coining the Specie of the United States, I have for some time turned my attention to that object and have examined all the most improved Machines and the method of using them, as practised in this Kingdom; I therefore venture to address myself to your Excellency on this Subject, and take the liberty of offering my Services in that department not doubting but from the experience I have acquired (during Six Years residence in this Country) in many Mechanical operations, and particularly in this. I shall prove myself materially usefull in the Business if employed. Influenced by this opinion and the advice of several of my American Friends, I have applied to Mr. Bolton of Birmingham, who has not only shewn me all the machinery he employs in his Coinage, but has also instructed me in the use of them, and he authorizes me to inform Your Excellency that he is willing to supply the United States with the necessary machinery for this purpose, at the most moderate expense possible, and as I am now about to return to America, he will send them with me, if it meets with your Excellency’s approbation.
I shall only take the liberty to add, what your Excellency perhaps already knows, which is that Mr Bolton’s Machinery and Method of Coining is allowed to be superior to any in the World.
I have not the honour of being personally known to your Excellency; but was known as a Clock & Watchmaker in Philadelphia, to the late President, Secretary of State, and many other public Characters, Six Years ago.
Your Excellency’s answer through Mr. King will particularly oblige.
Your very humble Servant

Robert Leslie


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 5 July 1799
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
5 July 1799 Department of State

I have received this morning a letter from the Secretary of the Northwestern Territory, informing that the reports propagated in the news-papers of Indian depredations in the two western counties of the Territory & in Shelby county in Kentuckey, are utterly destitute of foundation.
I inclose a letter which came to hand yesterday under a cover from a Christopher McPherson at Norfolk.
A letter received this week from Andrew Ellicott Esq. dated the 22d of May advised me that he had met Colo. Winthrim at Pennsacola and that they had held a conference with the Creeks, who were perfectly peaceable and willing that the running of the boundary line should proceed.
I am with great respect / sir your most obt. servt.
Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 6 July 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir.
War Department 6 July 1799.

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of two letters of the 24th and one of the 28th of June ulto, and two of the 1 July Inst.
Inclosed are lists of names of candidates recommended to fill vacancies in the 9th. 10th. 14th. & 15th. Regiments of Infantry, all which are respectfully submitted.
You will perceive that Mr. Benjamin Shaw of Marblehead is first named in the proposed appointments for Lt. Col. Rice’s Regiment. I think it necessary to observe, respecting this gentleman, that I have not a sufficient recollection of his services in the Revolutionary army to say any thing of them; that the recommendations of associate militia officers cannot always be depended upon; that they are silent with respect to his sobriety, morals or attachment to the government; that therefore it may be expedient to postpone announcing to him his appointment, in case he is approved, until a more particular knowledge can be obtained of his character. It may also be proper to mention, that his pretensions were submitted to the board of General officers convened at Philadelphia. Perhaps under all these circumstances you may think it adviseable to let him sleep for the present.
Mr. Sedgwick has repeatedly mentioned to me Mr Samuel Mackay as highly deserving of a company. He was nominated at the close of the late session of Congress to a Lieutenancy, and negatived by the Sinate, at the instance of Mr Sedgwick who considered him intitled to a higher grade, and that he would not accept of that proposed.
I have the honour to be with the greatest respect / Sir / your most obt / Servt

James McHenry


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 7 July 1799
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy July 7. 1799

As It is an excellent Principle for every Man in public Life, to magnify his office and make it honourable I admire the Dexterity with which you dignify yours by representing an Army and means adequate to its Support as the first thing necessary to make the nation respected. Genius in a General is oftener, an Instrument of divine Vengeance, than a Guardian Angell.
Stoddert I warrant you, instead of representing the Navy as the fourth and last Article necessary for national Respectability, would have felt the Importance of his office enough to have stated a Navy as the first and most indispensable.
It would not be necessary for me to decide the Controversy between you: If it should be, I shall be at no Loss. My answer would be ready.
I have read the Plann for providing y of military Supplies, inclosed in your letter of the 29. of June.—I Suppose I may keep it in order to recur to it, upon Occasion. I wish to be informed whether this is proposed to be adopted by Congress into a Law? I presume the Presidents Authority alone is not Adequate to the Establishment of it.—I wish it to be considered by the Secretary of the Treasury and by yourself, as closely, as possible before it is recommended. The Discipline of the Army and the National Œconomy are deeply interested in it.—The Secretary of State has had Experience, which ought to be consulted Upon this Occasion.

J Adams