Title: To John Adams from William Vans Murray, 17 July 1798
From: Murray, William Vans
To: Adams, John

Private
Dear sir,The Hague, 17 July 1798.

In a late dispatch in June to the secretary of state I mentioned Mr. Pichon late secretary to Genet and Fauchet last a secretary in the bureau of foreign affairs on the American side of the office at Paris & now French secretary of legation here.—I promised this gentlemen in the third interview about three weeks since (for I wished to make him talk freely knowing that his opinions have helped to mislead the French government) that his name should not be mentioned in any way that might be known to the world at his own request. Since that I have not seen him ‘till today. I this morning received a note from him informing me that he had some intelligence to communicate exceeding interesting to both of us & wished an hour to be named. I gave him the time:—before the hour, one, the chargé des affaires and champigny drove up & was with me, loosely talking about Rastadt & the war which is now again bursting forth between France & Germany. After his departure, the visit as to time being perfectly out of course, Mr. Pichon came.—
For a fortnight before I had expected that they would probably attempt to use me as a vehicle of overtures to be made to the Government, for the purpose of distracting and dividing and of reviving that hope which has so much been our disease. I am not much out in my expectations. Mr. Pichon after some time detailed to me the substance of the enclosed paper as intelligence respecting Mr. Gerry, lamenting the unhappy quarrel &c &c and endeavouring to predispose me to Mr. Talleyrand assuring me that he was solicitous for accommodation.—The conversation was long & made up (on my part) of the gross insults which we had too long borne, & the injustice which we had suffer’d & of the spirit which now animated the Councils & the nation of America & the current of opinions that bore down every act & obstacle:—On his part, of conceding to much I said, of lamenting the rest, of praises of the instructions for their profound wisdom & conciliatory & magnanimous tone. In fine I considered this interview as probably bringing into motion part of their plan respecting my humble self. In about two hours, he told me that he had, as he before informed me, translated the instructions which I lent to him—Sent them to Mr. Talleyrand with remarks, & had this morning received Mr. Talleyrand’s answer which if I pleased he would read. It was he said a copy.—I perceived it was in Mr. Pichon’s own hand which I know after his reading of it, & tracing with much concern the point in which all negotiation must stop, he put it into my hands. I asked him if I might keep it because I could not read French as fluently as he repeated it.—He assented. This was probably also what he wished. I told him that we were now armed and arming. That the bills for the sortie of our cruisers & for suspension of intercourse which I had newspaper copies of in my pocket, & which I lent to him, had pass’d without debate or opposition, so mature was the public mind on these points: that I regretted Gerry’s stay at Paris because I added that this might divide the public mind as to the chance of honorable accommodation, & of course might delay those vigorous measures which became our Government after such moderation, lest their patience might be misconstrued as the internal parties of America had been—& that we were so very far off that it was now impossible for us to be kept in a wavering state—& that from the decided tone of the Government, supported throughout by the Nation, it would be no very easy matter— that the conduct of Govt. and the People notwithstanding Mr. Gerry’s stay was a proof that nothing now but acts of justice could restore harmony—that as to the mode I was no judge—that my goverment could alone judge—I carefully avoided
   There is some omission. The figures used amount to this only– a 1115. vo 1242. could 567. ed 1004. a 115.
 dropping a word that in the most distant manner held up an idea of communicating this paper or of treating it in any way but as an affair of mere conversation & for my private perusal. Nothing was said to prevent my communicating it.—He repeated his wishes that whatever had past might not reach the public. I assured him it should not that I remembered my promise to him:—that with him I lamented the state into whh the two Nations appeared approaching, but saw no way out of it at present—that you had done all that became the dignity and independence which you watched over—that I personally had the honour of knowing the perfect sincerity of your heart upon the endeavour to adjust—but that I was no judge of the mode to be pursued, & that I hoped we should still be armed & prepared, & protect our Commerce by defensive measures. He said we were right in placing every thing in a state of defence, and of protecting our Commerce & of preventing their or any privateers from molesting our waters & limits.—But his regret was that just as things began to take a turn such as he knew Mr. Talleyrand wished there should be no body at Paris to treat.—I again recurred to the patience of the Envoys, & the impropriety (so I thought it) of Mr. Gerry’s stay. He recurred then to the powers “joint and several” & said that our government broke off the negociation tho’ a man appointed by it, Mr. Gerry was competent to treat and on the spot before it knew the result. I then called his recollection to Mr. Talleyrand’s note in March which begins by criminating the American Government, charging insincerity & absolutely dismissing the majority of the Envoys—tho’ all there, when once in Paris, were alone one Commission—& that “joint & several” meant to guard against contingencies of death in any one or more in so distant a scene & voyage. As I saw his drift was to lead me into such opinions as might induce me to write to government that a new expectation might be excited the motive of which I do not hesitate to declare I believe to be merely to divide and bewilder and to relax our energy and as I wish’d to show him that I had no hopes myself of adjustment, on his lamenting the present crisis and wishing that it could yet be averted.—I observed to him that while I regretted that this crisis was imposed upon us in defence of our honour, independence & commercial interests, I saw no means in the present state of things by wch this could be accomplished. That his government ought to have reflected last March upon one thing in particular which would always if not attended to render after-thought embarrassing, if not useless, in any nation in Europe that had a delicate negotiation with America—It was the distance of America (U.S.) from France, that when a negotiation so situated had been, after mature efforts on our parts, broken off, & the ministers gone—it was not possible to intimate any fresh ideas to the American Government as they could to any governments in Europe by Couriers in ten days. And hence a radical breach of negotiation with America must from the policy of America arising from that distance, always produce those decisive measures there which had from self-preservation been lately adopted. That the moment it was announced by your, Sir, that all hopes had ceased, the Govt. and nation rose up to a point infinitely beyond the lethargy of hope, and took ground that changed the subject matter for negotiation. That the United States had not declared war that I knew of, but that she had taken her ground &c &c. He talked about parties, that France could not hurt us—but that our parties might. I told him that that was the error which could not be explained, if facts, acts & laws had not already explained it.
Permit me now, Sir, shortly to state what I believe to be the real object of this whole interview.
France alarmed at our attitude, was bursting out again, wishing to amuse America with a new chime of bells has fixed on this secretary because he knew me in Philadelphia as the instrument to try the pulse and me as the vehicle of her wretched policy. Nothing has ever come from me to lead her to suppose that I am her man that much at least I may permit myself to boast to you, Sir, but still she thinks that on that account if she could get me into an informal negociation and impose upon me so far as to credit these airs of tenderness and induce me by these means to hazard a few hopes in favour of amicable adjustment that two opinions might yet rise in the U. States and that at all events some ground would be prepared for the impressions which she trusts Mr. Gerry may make on his return if nothing more Mr. Gerry acts wisely in resisting entering into negotiation or affecting to assume the power.—Yet they and the French Americans at Paris will try every act to impress the public mind in America that every thing could be done by any man with powers—That Mr. Talleyrand has at last brought the Directory into a temper to treat &c &c.
I could not refuse a member of our corps an interview he asked for in a note and indeed I was curious to the advances of proud and conscious debility. As I was determined that I would not write at all upon the subject to Government, nor to any one but to you, Sir, entirely for yourself and he will never know that I have written. I would not give this visit any importance in Mr. Pichon’s eyes by any hesitation, and I thought I might get something, —what I did not know nor expect precisely.—I have not dared at such a time, Sir, to step between your measures & their object—nor need you fear that I shall. If this affair takes a more formal attempt I shall listen but to get what I can and then declare myself incompetent & that having no power & not having any security I shall not dare to meddle nor to write to government upon the subject, that they are competent to acts of justice & sincerity without negotiation.—I am well aware of the consequence of my doing any thing like listening to formal proposals without this declaration on my part; because it would lead them perhaps to write to America that great hopes were entertained of an amicable adjustment and mention the overtures to which I should have listened.
The use, Sir, it has struck me in this interview is in this fact (if it be true that the copy is really from Talleyrand) that the sending of Mr. Pichon here is a measure of solicitude—for he is a useful and active secretary on American Affairs at Paris and above all, this interview and the letter of Mr. Talleyrand and Mr. Pichon giving it to me moves that they are deeply alarmed that energetic measures have stunned them and that the steady & dignify’d pursuit of them will attain their great end.
From letters which I receive today from Paris of the 11. and from three other letters to two others, which I have heard read today, of the 12th stating in fact the substance of the enclosed and Mr. Talleyrand’s advances I have no doubt that they will exert themselves to show how amicable they are—how hasty we are—but I thank God Sir, that nature has worked to her proper issues in America—and that these tricks will be straws against a storm.
It is my misfortune, Sir, to trouble you with long letters and in a toilsome character. One thing more, Sir, & I cease to lengthen this. Believe me to be deeply impressed, first with a sense of duty that shows me I have no right to meddle on this subject and secondly that in sending the enclosed with my remarks solely Sir to you and to no other man in the world, I hazard no false inferences from what I do—no dangerous effects from the transmission, & that I do it to prove should it be necessary to you that this mode of proceeding is among the arts which they will doubtless practise in various shapes, and that you ought to know the fact as it will console you to have proof that tho’ they have no sincerity that can be depended on one moment that they are in some degree humbled.—You will perceive sir, that I do not mention this even to the Secretary of State for in his office some men go occasionally to read dispatches who might from good or bad motives use this paper to foolish or wicked ends.
Genl. Joubert who commands the French army here was last night ordered to depart for Mayence—Hatry comes here—as the French expect to begin active & offensive operations against Germany. The negotiation at Seltz between ex-director Neufchateau & Count Cobenzel, ended in heat—they separated hostily even. The Congress at Rastadt it is understood must be by this time broken up, & the campaign is expected. While Germany has been dozing at Rastadt, the French have accomplished what a brilliant campaign could hardly have effected—For the Papacy has been overturned—Switzerland possessed—the Kingdom of Sardinia put into their hands and Malta taken. Bonaparte it is believed must be on his route to Leghorn, if Nelson does not secure him. On the other hand Switzerland is unquiet & will seize any moment favourable to resist; this country is wretched & would I believe resist if Great Britain would remove her fears—Her fears however are excited now by a suspicion that France may either throw her into departments or partition her with Prussia who as far as I can learn is not yet a party to the coalition.
The name which I lately had the honour to communicate in another long letter, on a seperate piece of paper, was not put into any public dispatch because of my fears that it might some how leak out & would be rapidly borne here to the death of the person & of others.—I beg you to excuse the laborious length of this letter & of that & to believe me to be, / With the most perfect respect & / attachment, faithfully / Dear Sir, / Yr. ob. Servt.
W.V. Murray


Title: From John Adams to Va., Citizens of Richmond, 18 July 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Richmond, Va., Citizens of

To my Fellow Citizens of the county of Richmond, in Virginia.
Gentlemen,
Philadelphia, July 18. 1798

Your representative in congress, Mr. Jones, has presented to me your address to the president of the United States, and both houses of Congress. It is joyful indeed to receive assurances from respectable citizens of Virginia, that they are satisfied with the government of the United States. The pretext for rejecting our negociations has been, that we are a divided people—but the real cause, a disability or disinclination to pay debts, compensate damages for trespasses, and provide without indiscriminate plunder, for universal conquest, seductions and domination.
Virginia can say with more certainty than any other state in the union, whether a division really dangerous to this country exists or not, and it behoves her to consider and determine this question soberly—the supposition of such a division is degrading—but the actual existence of it must produce calamities, extensive, impoverishing and destructive.
Your sincere affection to your government and firm determination to defend it against all its enemies, entitle you to the esteem and affection of all its friends, and still finally redound to your honor, even among your own neighbors, who at present differ from you.
Americans who are conscious of the magnitude of the stake, and the high name inherited from their ancestors, cannot err essentially in the present times, the confidence of such Americans, is to me more flattering than all the pride of all the wealth and power of this country or any other to bestow.

John Adams.


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 18 July 1798
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
July 18. 1798

I nominate Alexander Hamilton of New York to be Inspector General of the Army with the Rank of Major General.
Charles Cotesworth Pinckney of South Carolina to be a Major General
Henry Knox of Massachusetts to be a Major General
Henry Lee of Virginia to be a Major General of the provisional Army
Edward Hand of Pennsylvania to be a Major General of the provisional Army.
John Brooks of Massachusetts to be a Brigadier General
William Washington of South Carolina to be a Brigadier General.
Jonathan Dayton of New Jersey to be a Brigadier General.
William Stevens Smith of New York to be a Adjutant General, with the Rank of Brigadier General.
Ebenezer Huntington of Connecticut to be a Brigadier General of the provisional Army
Anthony Walton White to be a Brigadier General of the provisional Army.
William Richison Davie of North Carolina to be a Brigadier General of the provisional Army.
John Sevier of Tennessee to be a Brigadier General of the Provisional Army.
James Craik of Virginia to be Physician General of the Army.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 18 July 1798
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
July 18. 1798

I nominate William Winder of Maryland to be Accountant of the Navy

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 18 July 1798
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate,
In Senate, July 18, 1798.

BELIEVING that the Letter received this morning, from General WASHINGTON, will give high satisfaction to the Senate, I transmit them a copy of it, and congratulate them and the public on this great event, the General’s acceptance of his appointment, as Lieutenant-General and Commander in Chief of the Army.

John Adams.


Title: To John Adams from Bernard Hubley, Jr., 18 July 1798
From: Hubley, Bernard, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Respected Sir
Northumd. July 18th, 1798

Inclosed is one of the Newspapers, printed in this Town, wherein you will perceive an Address, from the Second Battn. Fourth Regt. Northumberland County Militia, directed to me;—this I hope & expect will have a good effect as I conceive it will break a knot among such in this County, that ever appeared to be inimicable to Government, at least since the time of the Four Western Counties of this State shewed their disaffection; We have Characters among us, as there is in all parts, such as are stiled Jacobins, I am well assured those in this place, built their strength upon some of those Officers, that Signed the Address, after it was at the Printing Office, before it was published, one of them went to the Office, there seen & read it, and had influence to persuade three of the Officers, to erase their Names, such is the report; I likewise, enclose a Copy, of my Answer to them not yet published, the Printer at this place, only prints once a Week, should it be the wish & request of the Officers, that I should acquaint you of their Attachment &c. I shall not fail Writing you, but I am doubtful respecting it, for the Majority of them, have ever strongly leaned the other way, though we dayly see an alteration for the better in this County.
with the Sincerest Affection / Your Most Obdt. / & / Most Huml Servt.

Berd. Hubley Jur.


Title: To John Adams from Ephraim Hunt, 18 July 1798
From: Hunt, Ephraim
To: Adams, John

Sir

Albany State of New york
July 18t 1798

seeing by the resolves of Congress that thier is to be an army raised for the defence of our country as an old american officer I Offer myself if it (should it meet your approbation for the Service. I served last war as a Lieut. in Colo. Henry Jackson Regiment from Boston. any recommendation you may think necessary I can procure.) I served also in the commandier in Chiefs gards for some time Just before peace took place (Major North I presume has put me upon the rolls) while in Congress. hope Sir if I am appointed it will not be under the rank of Captain. as I have been some time Brigade Major in this State. I hope sir I shall not be forgoten—
From your most Obedient & very / Humbl. Servt.
Ephraim Hunt


Title: From John Adams to Ny., Militia Montgomery County, 19 July 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Montgomery County, Ny., Militia

To the Officers and Men of a Regiment of Militia newly arranged, in the County of Montgomery in the State of New York
Gentlemen
Philadelphia July 19 1798

An Address like yours of the 4. of July presented to me by your Representative Mr Cochran is very acceptable. When a foreign Power, with unblushing Countenance, demands the Power of choosing for you your Supream Magistrate, and of dictating to you and to him, the Persons you shall send or not send as Ambassadors, to defend your Interests, what Prerogative of a free People have you left? If they had demanded of you, your Farms, which your own laborious Exertions Since the revolution have converted, from a dreary Wilderness to beautiful and fruitful Fields, they would have demanded Trifles in comparison, with the essential Prerogatives of sovereignty. Your Government has indeed endeavoured with some success to secure Liberty and your Acknowledgment of it is very honourable. But untill very lately Licentiousness has been too little restrained. The Happiness of the Individual has been combined with Some degree of Energy in the state, and the Fame and Credit of the Nation has been raised, Against all Opposition on the only Basis, on which they can ever rest, that of Truth and Justice. The Difficulty of combining together, great Numbers of Men, Scattered over extensive territories, in any one Plan, and of bringing them to move and Act by any certain Rule, has not been sufficiently considered. A threatening Calamity may do more in a Month, than Argument could do accomplish in many Years.
These Blessings, imperfect as they may be, are not to be offered as the price of a dastardly peace, worse than War, No. All those who have acted the Part of Citizen Soldiers, on so nobly on all former Occasions, and all those young Heroes whose pulse beat high for Glory and their Country, will join with you, who have lately put on the Character of Citizen Soldiers in effectual defence of those dear bought Rights.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 19 July 1798
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
July 19. 1798.

I nominate William North of New York to be Adjutant General of the Army with the Rank of Brigadier General.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Ga., Young Men of Augusta, 20 July 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Augusta, Ga., Young Men of

To the Young Men of the City of Augusta in the State of Georgia—
Gentlemen
Philadelpa July 20th 1798

An Address from the youth of Augusta, so remote from the seat of Government, and where I am personally wholly unknown is a very high gratification to my feelings—
Threats of Bloodshed, Massacres and desolation, from the frenzy of any Nation however great, or any republic however Terrible at the distance of a thousand Marine Leagues, need not intimidate the American People, if they really feel like you an unalterable attachment, to their Country and Government—
It has been my misfortune destiny—to differ from my fellow Citizens in general, in opinions concerning the French revolution—As a dispensation of Providence, I have ever beheld it with reverence, unable however to comprehend any good principles sufficient to produce it, to see its tendency, or in what it would terminate—But the warm Zeal the Violent attachment to it manifested by Americ I have ever beleived to be an Error of the public opinion—It was none of our Business—We had or ought to have had nothing to do with it, and I always beleived we were making work for severe repentance—To me little time remains to Live, and less I hope to have anything to do with public affairs, but I could neither die or retire in peace, if at such a time as this, and in the Station I now hold, I should conceal my sentiments, from my fellow Citizens—
Self Preservation now points out a firm conduct to Government, and your satisfaction in those Measures, which have been pursued for the preservation of our National honor is much esteemed. May you long Live to rejoice in them and enjoy their happy Effects—
It is a gratification to my pride to see you boast of a well balanced republic; the essence of a free Republic is in this balance—The security of Liberty, property, Character and Life depends every moment on its preservation, and France and America will be scourged by the Rods of Vengeance if they will not Study and preserve that Balance as the only ark of Safety—
The expression of your confidence in my administration, is the more precious as it was unexpected.

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Thaddeus Burr, 20 July 1798
From: Burr, Thaddeus
To: Adams, John

Sir
Fairfield July 20th 1798

At the request of several Gentlemen of Newfield, I address you in behalf of Samuel and Aaron Hawley Junr, for an appointment as Officers in the Navy & Artillery—Samel Hawley has been breed to the Seas from his Youth, he is about thirty four years of age, has for several years commanded a Ship, is an active, smart resolute Man, and from information and what I know of him myself, I think he is well calculated for, and capable of a Command in the Navy—
Aaron Hawley Junr. is about 28 Years old; he now holds a Leutcy in the first Artillery company in the State, and would gladly serve his Country in his rank if there is Room: from what I have seen of his activity, I make no doubt he will made a very good Officer—
I have the honor to be, sir, with due respect and esteem / your most obt huml St
Thaddeus Burr


Title: To John Adams from C. Legaux, 20 July 1798
From: Legaux, C.
To: Adams, John

					Monsieur
					spring-mill ce 20 juillet 1797.

				L’Esprit et Le Coeur de L’homme-d’Etat, qui veut le bien sincérement de son paÿs, et qui désire ardament le bonheur de chaque individu qu’il Gouverne; n’ont pas besoin d’être stimulés pour L’Effectuer; aussi n’est ce pas L’objet de la présente que j’ai L’honneur de vous adresser: mais il importe beaucoup pour la prospérité des nations, que dans L’immensité des branches qui doivent concourir à cette même prospérité, cet homme-D’Etat, soit assuré qu’aucune d’elles ne soit en souffrance, ou non Etablie; pour qu’il y puisse pouvoir et y remédier par ses Lumieres, son pouvoir, son Encouragement et quelquefois par ses bontés Généreuses; je dis donc qu’il faut que ce Magistrat soit instruit ou prévenu qu’aucune de ces Branches ne soit en souffrance ou non Existante: C’est à Cet Effet que je supplie Votre Excellence de me permettre de lui faire cette adresse. Plusieurs auteurs ont avancé, que Les Anglois qui n’avoient point de vin en Europe, résolurent de le demander au nouvel Hémisphere; à l’Effet de quoi ils appellerent à grands frais des vignerons français en Amerique. Les Expériences réitérées qu’ils tenterent alternativement avec du plan d’Europe et D’Amerique, furent toutes Egalement malheureuses; une Culture si chere à la nation Anglaise et à tous Les peuples qui ne la possede pas, ne put Eclore et prospérer sur ce Continent; mais un jour doit venir, assurent ces mêmes auteurs, où ces Régions fourniront une Boisson dont la préparation occupe plusieurs parties du Globe, et dont L’usage fait les délices de tant d’autres: cet Evenement ne doit arriver, selon Eux, qu’après des Essais trés multipliés et suivant toutes les probabilités, la recolte du Vin sera précedée par celle de la soye, ouvrage de ce Ver rampant qui habille L’homme de feuilles d’arbres Elaborées dans son sein.Jaloux de désaltérer L’Americain avant que ce Ver ne L’habillat, j’ai tenté en 1787 à springmill 13 miles N.N.O. de phyladelphie, un des Essais pronostiqués, dont le  succès est jusqu’à ce jour au-delà de toute Espérance, et démontre assurément, que si Les vignerons invités par les Anglais ont manqué jusqu’à présent leur objet, cetoit plûtot par l’inéxpérience du Climat de ce pays, qui Exige une culture de la vigne toute à fait différente de celle qu’ils pratiquoient en Europe, que par toute autre raison; de la quelle culture nouvelle il parroit par L’Expérience acquise depuis 1787 jusqu’à ce moment présent, que dépend la réussite de la vigne d’Europe, dont Le Jus que j’en ai recueillis en différentes années successives, ne le cède en rien au vin de france, s’il n’est même supérieur.il seroit fastidieux de chercher à persuader, Votre Excellence, de la vérité de cette différence dans la Culture de la vigne pour sa réussite. la différence de ce climat à celui d’Europe Exige par consequent du vigneron Americain une manoeuvre presque opposée à celle du vigneron Européen. L’heureux résultat de la Chose dont, Votre Excellence, peut dans tous les tems s’assurer, Si elle daigne honnorer ce Local de sa présence et singuléremint dans Le millieu du mois d’aoust prochain que ses fruits pourront Lui être offerts en parfaite maturité, est L’Expérience la plus sûre du succès de la vigne d’Europe et du Cap de Bonne-Esperance dans ces Climats: succès qui ne peut que s’augmenter, considérablement au profit de L’Amerique, où Bacchus semble vouloir s’unir à Cérès.Convaincu, que, dans quelque partie du monde L’homme soit, il doit se rendre utile à la société parmis la qu’elle il est jetté et vit; je me suis fait un vrai plaisir de remplir içi Cette obligation en secondant Les vues du Dieu de la Treille; Le succès récompenseroit sans doute tous mes travaux, si sur ce genre d’agriculture, L’indifférence morose du peuple que vous Gouvernez ne repoussoit la réussitte  sûre d’un Etablissement Général, qu’il devroit désirer et Cherir comme la seconde Branche de L’agriculture; la plus importante après celle du Bled! En Effet, qu’elle somme Enorme ne sort-il par des Etats unis de L’Amérique pour L’abreuver; Lors qu’elle pourroit se suffir à elle même et attirer L’or de L’Etranger, par son superflu en vin, en Eaux-de-vie, vinaigre, Tartres &a. indépendament de L’avantage de posseder chez elle des Liqueurs naturelles, Bienfaisantes, analogiques aux habitants du pays et à leur tempérament, qui ne seroit plus attacqué par Ces Liqueurs sophistiquées, Telles, qu’au détriment de L’humanité on voit Les marchands de vin Les jetter dans le Commerce pour assouvir leur Cupidité! qu’elle quantité de terres, impropres à toute autre culture que celle de la vigne n’Existent-elles pas en Amerique!personne ne peut mieux apprécier tous ces avantages que, votre Excellence, et personne plus qu’elle, n’est à-même d’en faire sentir toute L’importance à la masse Générale d’ames qu’elle Gouverne, et à Lui donner L’impulsion nécéssaire pour voir réaliser L’Effet heureux qu’une Nation qui doit devenir une des plus Grande sur le Globe, peut attendre d’une telle plante, dont L’Eloge le plus flateur qu’on puisse en faire se trouve dans la Bouche même de Dieu, Lors quil compare la plante de la vigne à son Eglise, Les Bons aux raisins doux et mûrs et Les méchants à la vigne sauvage qui ne produit qu’un fruit amer et qui n’acquiert aucune maturité! jehova vitem tanto honore dignatur est, ut Ecclesiae suae vincam aliquotien comparavit, & isaie, Chap 5.Jesus-Christ, comme Chef de son Eglise, voulant honorer la vigne plus que toutes Les autres plantes, la compare à lui-même et dit à ses apotres. Ego sum vitis vera, et pater meus agricola omnem palmitem in me non ferentem fructum, tollet Eum; & Joan, XV. V. 1. 2. 4. 5 & 6.Le patriarche Jacob dans sa prédiction Sur la venue du Messie, compare le Mÿstere de La Croix et de L’Effusion du sang du sauveur, à la vigne, à ses Branches et àu vin. Ligans ad vineam pullum sucem, et ad vitem, osili mi asinam suam: lavabit in vino stotam suam et in sanguine usae sto lam suam. Genes. Cap. 49. V. 11.Le Roy prophete compare une femme féconde à la vigne. uxor tua sicut vitis abundans lateribus domus tuae. Psalm 128.L’Ecriture donne à la vigne L’Empire sur tous Les arbres: elle leur fait dire: viens et domine sur nous; la quelle leur repondit puis-je délaisser mon vin, qui réjouit Dieu et Les hommes et être Elévée autre tous Les autres bois. Locutaque sunt Ligna ad vitem, veni et impera nobis  &. Lib. Judic. 9. V. 12.Justinien, Le plus prudent des Empereurs Roumains, fit de la vigne un si-Grand cas, qu’il condamna au fouet tous Ceux qui seroient convaincus d’avoir pillé Les vignes. plagis inflictis vestibus spoliati. ceux qui  auroient coupé un Cep ou brulé, aux mêmes peines qu’un voleur: iis qui vites ceciderint aut uzerint, poenam tanquam Latronem adjudicat. Leges rei ruricae apud juvet Kamerar. De n. n. Tit. 4. 59. &.qu’il me soit permis de mettre sous Les yeux de, son Excellence, L’Eloge que fit de La vigne, Ciceron, Le maitre de L’Eloquence. qui ne sera ravi, dit-il au Charmant aspect d’une vigne! quem Eterim non in sui admirationem rapiat Tam juccundissimum vitium tot partibus Constantium aspectur. il fait dire au petit fils de Romulus qu’il ne peut se rassasier de la voir: ut disertissimus Romuli nepotum feateatur satiuri se ejus aspectu non posse Cicero in Lib. Senect. Cap. 15.C’est s’appercevoir beaucoup trop tard de la fatigue que doit causer tant de Citations en faveur de la vigne. ne faisant aucun doute que si, Votre Excellence, daignoit s’assurer par elle-même du succès de la Chose, par L’aspect du vignoble de spring-mill, par la dégustation de son jus, et de son fruit; L’Amerique qui doit en Grande partie, sa Liberté et son Bonheur aux Talens superieurs et aux Efforts patriotiques de son Excellence; Lui deveroit Egalement Le don précieux de ses vins naturels: par le Grand Encouragement qu’elle ne manqueroit pas de donner au plûtot à ce genre d’agriculture: Encouragement dont il a le plus Grand besoin dans un paÿs tel que celui çi, où pour la plus prompte réussite il faudroit encore qu’il fut au pouvoir humain, de hater le retour des saisons au grès de ses habitans, pour qu’ils puissent joüir plus promptement, etant accoutumés par la bonté de son sole et de son Climat à faire trois recoltes dans dix-huitt mois.je suis avec un Trés profond Respect / de Votre Excellence / Le trés humble trés obéissant / et trés Zélé serviteur

					C. Legaux


Title: To John Adams from Maxwell Armstrong, 23 July 1798
From: Armstrong, Maxwell,Haymond, John
To: Adams, John

Sir.
Clarksburg July 23d. 1798—

We the subscribers, a Committee appointed by a respectable meeting of the Inhabitants of Harrison County, in the Commonwealth of Virginia holden at Clarksburg, on Monday the sixteenth day of July 1798, for the purpose of expressing their sentiments of the measures pursued by our Government with respect to France—Beg leave to assure you that although among the last—in addressing, we are not less attached to our Government, a Government calculated to ensure liberty & happiness to its Citizens—
In plain and undisguised language we do not hesitate to declare, that the measures you have taken, to promote a good understanding, Harmony & Peace, between this Country and France, appear to us becoming your Character and deserving our confidence—But her refusal, to meet your condescending plans of accomadation, except upon the condition of an advance of money, evinces on her part, a spirit of Avarice and Tyranny, unknown among civilized nations, in modern times, and evidently shews that having become haughty and arbitrary, by her successes, she means to act, as did ancient Rome—
But Sir, We congratulate you, on her disappointment, in an essential matter, upon which she calculated highly—The want of attachment to our Government, and a division of sentiment, in regard to that nation.—With Infinite satisfaction must every true American view, that the alarm of War, has silenced all essential differences in opinion, and a Unison of sentiment appears to prevail universally throughout our land—And the day we trust is not far distant, when the odious distinction of Aristocrat and Democrat will be done away and as one man, we shall unite in the common Cause—
Had the desired object been obtained, upon the Just and honorable terms proposed, We would have cheerfully United, with the warmest advocates for peace, in the most lively expressions of mutual congratulation—We cannot forget that the very genius and principles of the religion, we profess teach us “as much as possible to live peaceably with all men..” Yet we conceive it not possible, to maintain a friendly Correspondence, or even to be at peace with a Nation, that under the mask of Philanthropy commits the greatest cruelties, exercises the most despotic sway, destroys all order, and establishes impiety by law.—Viewing the matter in this light, We do not wonder that the most Just, wise, and Patriotic overtures of peace, with the French nation, have proved abortive———.Be assured therefore, although War may be the consequence of your steady attachment to our real interests—We would rather be immediately be called forth into the field of Battle, in support of such measures, as the constituted Authorities of the Union shall adopt, for the defence and maintenance of our national Independence, than enjoy a momentary, delusive, purchased peace—
We trust that the God of our Mercies will aid us, in defending, what we thankfully enjoy, as his gift, and impute the guilt of offensive War to those, Who have rejected the offers of peace. Who without provocation have plundered us on the high seas. Who have endeavored to subvert our Government by the mean arts of seduction, and even now threaten us with revenge unless we will succour them in their ambitious views of universal domination. May that God, who has graciously placed you at the head of our national affairs, long preserve your life, and make you the happy Instrument of conducting us, with safety through this impeding storm—

Maxwell ArmstrongGeorge TowersJohn Haymond


Title: From John Adams to John Steele, 24 July 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Steele, John

To the Field Officers of the district of Salisbury, and a number of private gentlemen of the same district, in North-Carolina.
Gentlemen,
Philadelphia, July 24, 1798.

YOUR address of the 4th of July, has been presented to me by Mr. Steele. It would be too great an expense of time, and of too little utility, for all the people to assemble and express their opinions on public measures in the ordinary course of things—nor could the necessary information be collected and presented to all; but, upon great occasions like the present, when every enquiring and thinking mind is irresistibly drawn to the state of the nation, and especially when the government itself is so manifestly attacked, there seems to be a peculiar propriety in the declaration of sentiments.
My opinion of the conduct of our government from the beginning, and of the conduct of the French government towards us, has been so often expressed, that it is unnecessary to repeat it. I know not whether history can furnish an example of such moderation and forbearance as has been shewn by the American government towards the republic of France. The rejection and contempt of our ambassadors, is the most wanton, the most insulting, and the most injurious of all their conduct. Depredations and cruelties might be committed from error, necessity, or passion.—But this is a cool, deliberate, studied affront: intended to be so understood, by all France, all Europe, and all the people of America. Satisfaction must be had for this insult. There can be no reconciliation with France, till the sovereign of that country shall have received our ambassador, assured him of all the prerogatives of the law of nations attached to his sacred character and functions, and commissioned another to treat with him on equal terms.
The solemn assurances given by you and your fellow citizens, that your lives and fortunes shall be ready to support, maintain and defend such measures as our country shall see proper to adopt, will sooner or later effect this desirable reparation, and such usage will never be again repeated.
Your kind compliments to me are highly flattering, and your cordial wishes for my health and happiness, most tenderly affecting to

John Adams.


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 25 July 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State July 25. 1798.

Understanding that you set out this morning, to proceed to Massachusetts, I have thought it proper to send on a parcel of commissions for the Commissioners of the Land-Tax, hoping they will meet you at New-York, be there signed and returned. The commissions for the whole are filled up, and the residue are now under examination & will be forwarded to-morrow. It seemed important that these commissions should be transmitted speedily to the several states; and therefore this trouble is given you on your journey.
I am with great respect / Sir your most obt. servt.
Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 26 July 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State July 26. 1798.

I have the honor to inclose 15 blanks, permissions to collectors to clear out flags of truce carrying French people from the United States, to which I request your signature, & that you will cause them to be returned to me. A second packet forwarded yesterday contained the residue of the commissions for the Commissioners of the Land Tax.
I am with great respect / sir, your most obt. servt.

Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 27 July 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State July 27. 1798.

This morning I received a letter from Callohill Memis (an officer of our revolution war) covering the inclosed address, which he desired me to present to you, from the Inhabitants of Bedford County in Virginia.
I am with great respect, / sir,your obt. servt.

Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Donald Fraser, 28 July 1798
From: Fraser, Donald
To: Adams, John

Illustrious Sir
New York July 28th: 1798

Presuming your wonted goodness, and your avowed and laudable attacment to Divine truth, which is a most certain security to the enlightened Nation over whom you preside, of the faithful discharge of all the arduous & important duties of your eminent Station,—when Your Excellency passed through this City some time ago, I took the liberty of soliciting you to honor with your Subscription a Book which I was then publishing; but owing, I presume, to your short stay in this City, and the numerous avocations which must have arrested your attention,—I did not receive an answer to my request:—I flatter myself, however, that you will be so good as to pardon the freedom of your name being inserted at the head of the Subscription list.
Permit me now the honor of presenting for your acceptance, a copy of the work; which, was published principally with a view of counteracting, in some degree, the baneful tendency of Pane’s pernicious ‘age of reason.’ With the utmost deferences, I would beg leave to suggest to your Excellency, that I have toilled, in this Country, for near twenty years as a Teacher; during which time, I have devoted most of my leisure hours from the arduous duties of my profession, to composing & compiling some tracts for the Benefit of the rising age. In consequence of a very close application to these pursuits, I find my constitution at present greatly impaired:—and having a rising family to support, I would be glad if I could obtain some place under Government suitable to my Capacity—and would ever retain a sincere sense of gratitude, if your Excellency, would favor me with some appointment.
That Gracious Ruler of the Universe may prolong your useful life to a very advanced period—and enable you at this gloomy period crisis, to support the Dignity & perpetuate the civil & Religious rights of your Beloved Country,—Is, the most sincere desire of one, who has the honor to be,—with due respect, Illustrious Sir, Your most obedient & very humble servant.

Donald Fraser
P.S. I can procure sufficient testimonies with regard to my moral Character—and also ample security for the faithful discharge of any place assigned me.


Title: From John Adams to David Perry, 29 July 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Perry, David

To the Students of Williams College State of Massachusetts
GentlemenJuly 29th. 1798—

I have not been less surprised than delighted with an address from one hundred and thirty Students of Williams College presented to me by the President of the Senate pro tempore Mr Sedgwick.
So large a number in so recent an Institution, as it shows the flourishing circumstances of our Country at present, affords a most pleasing prospect of young Citizens, in a course of Education, for the future Government, Instruction and Service of the Country.
The composition of your address shows a respectable sample of your literary talents, as the principles and sentiments it contains, do honor to your heads and hearts. It is impossible for the unperverted mind of youth, to see the world, filled with violence, as it was before the flood, and every virtue, and every principle trampled under foot, without feeling his soul fired with a generous indignation. Your readiness to oppose the torrent with all your youthful energy, and risque your lives in defence of your Country national rights, is greatly to your honor.
The testimony of your opinion, in favour of the candour, firmness and moderation of my administration, is the more valuable, as you have not been educated in the School of adulation, and speak the pure sentiments of Independence.
When your eyes are fixed of the continuance of our National prosperity. The talents and energies of the rising generation, are a sure pledge of our safety, and the growing importance of America

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Robert Goodloe Harper, 29 July 1798
From: Harper, Robert Goodloe
To: Adams, John

Philadelphia July 29th. 1798.

The enclosed address, Sir, was transmitted to me by the meeting which agreed to it, with a request that I would present it to the President of the United States. Being prevented from discharging in person this agreeable duty, I take the liberty of transmitting the address by Post, and / Have the Honour to be, with / Sentiments of the Highest respect / sir / Your Most obedt. Very Hble. Sevt.

Rob: G: Harper


Title: To John Adams from Tristram Dalton, 30 July 1798
From: Dalton, Tristram
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington 30th June [July] 1798

I again intrude upon Your Goodness, by inclosing to Your kind Care a Letter for Mrs. Adams, from Mrs. Dalton, who begs Your excuse for thus often troubling You.
I avail myself of the opportunity to renew my assurances of the most respectful regards and purest Friendship—
Be pleased to accept, and present, my warmest wishes for Your and Mrs. Adams’ Health—and for every blessing that can tend to render You and Yours happy.
With the highest satisfaction I hear the most hearty approbation of the Conduct of the President. Praise and confidence hang on the lips of nearly every one in this Quarter—In George Town, whose Inhabitants are generally among the firmest supporters of Government, there are very few of the old Faction—In this City there is a small Knot—composed of a modern Philosopher—a violent Jacobin with less principle—Strangers, whose Moral Characters are at least dubious,—and dependents, whose Circumstances cannot be much worse.
Col. Mercer, who at present resides here, seems to be the Center of Union—He is the Head of the Set at Fredricksburg—where his diabolical Politics, and Principles, have been generally adopted. This was the first Town in Virginia that welcomed Mr. Jefferson, on his late Journey to Monticello—He called on one or two of his brother Democrats in his way thro’ this City, and George Town.
That such political Sentiments as are advanced by the Jacobin, especially when not Citizens, are listened to by any Friends to this Country, must be an Enigma to those who have not possessed themselves of the History of the Follies and Wickednesses of Mankind, as fully displayed in your Defence of the American Constitution.
I daily read this my political Bible, with attention and astonishment. Whenever I shut the Book, and reflect upon the Miseries, which Men thus, almost without exception, bring upon themselves—I tremble for our Country—I fear that we shall exhibit another example, to the many which You have pointed out so plainly, that He who runs may read,—and that we shall fulfill the prophetic Lessons, which You have so earnestly warned us off.
Line upon Line—Precept upon Precept, in Matters of Eternal Moment, do not sufficiently influence Mankind—
You clearly point out the political Chains, with which They should bind themselves—May we not court other! intolerable to well informed Freemen—May Heaven save us from every National Evil—and peculiarly bless those Who are labouring in our political Vineyard!
Excuse me, My Dear Sir, for daring to advance my sentiments—and Observations—They can but hinder your precious time—without being of the least service. Having been insensibly led on, I must commit them to Your partial Candour—so often experienced by me.
With the most sincere Respect / And perfect Esteem / I am / Sir Your obliged Friend / And most obedient Servant
Tristram Dalton


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 30 July 1798
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department 30. July 1798.

By letters previously recd. from Stephen Higginson Esqr of Boston, I had been taught to expect that both the Herald, of 20 Guns, and the Boston Cutter, of 14 Guns, would have been prepared to Join Capt. Barry, at Cape Cod, or Nantasket road, about the 20th. Instant.
Barry arrived at the place of destination about the time appointed, but found the Boston Vessels in an unprepared state; and I have reason to conclude from his letters to me, that he has proceeded with Decatur only, on the expedition to the Islands.
This, I believe, is a circumstance, not to be regretted, for, from all the information I can get, there is no probability that Barry will meet in the West Indies, a force superior to his own.
At this season of the year, & during the months of August & September & part of October, the British Armed Ships are less alert in the West Indies than at other times, in consequence of apprehensions of danger from the Hurricanes. Some of their Frigates are now in our ports, as being more secure from the elements, than the Islands. Our own force on our own Coasts, it is not to be doubted, is well known to the French—and having no force in the Islands equal to ours (except three light Frigates blocked up by the British at Cape Francois) it is not to be apprehended, that our Coasts will be much molested by their Cruisers—at least, for some months to come, unless indeed, they could send a force from Europe, which is far from being probable.
The French Islands having no authorized intercourse with the United States, must depend in a great degree, upon Captures for Supplies of Bread & Salt meat. Not having much to fear from the British about the Islands, during the Hurricane season, & not daring to send their Cruisers on our Coasts, it is likely that a greater number of them than usual will be employed during that season in the Neighbourhood of the Islands.
The Hurricanes, I understand, are not so very dangerous as they are generally believed to be. It is not oft’ner than once in four or five years, that much injury is done by them—and at such times, the danger is partial, & extends not beyond one or two Islands.
Under such circumstances, and impressed with the opinion, that the American Navy should be taught to disregard problematical dangers,—and that our force should be employed while the French have but little force, in destroying what they have—& in producing a scarcity of provisions, & the consequent discontents flowing from such a source, in their Islands; I have the honor Sir, to submit for your consideration, the following proposed arrangement.
To leave the Coast, from the East end of Georges bank to Long Island, to be guarded by the Herald, Capt Sever of 20 Guns, & the Boston Cutter of 14 Guns;—from Long Island to Cape Henry, by the Baltimore of 20 Guns, & two Cutters, one of which, of 10 Guns, is now out, & another of 14 Guns will be ready by the end of this Week, to sail from New York;—and from Cape Henry to our Southern extremity, by one of the Frigates and two Cutters which will proceed from hence to the Southward in a short time.
This distribution, will leave one Frigate, & the ship Montezuma, of 20 Guns, as soon as she can be prepared for Sea, which I hope will be by the 20th. or 25th. of August, to be employed in any enterprise—and these, if you Sir approve, I would propose to send on a cruise among the Islands, as soon as the latter can be prepared.
It is likely that Barry & Decatur will leave the Islands on their return, about the time this second expedition would leave our Coasts—and by the time Barry returns, it is to be presumed, that the Ganges, Capt Dale who must shortly return into port, to refit, may be prepared to Join the other Frigate, which till then will be kept on the Southern Station in a third expedition to the Islands. By keeping up incessant attacks upon the French Cruisers on their own ground, they will in a degree at least, be prevented from coming on ours. In about three months, our force will be so increased, as to admit of more frequent attacks—or attacks with stronger force.
I have the honor to be / with the highest respect & esteem / Sir Yr. Most Obed. Servt.

Ben Stoddert.


Title: To John Adams from William Cunningham, 30 July 1798
From: Cunningham, William
To: Adams, John

Sir
Lunenburg 30th July 1798

Recllecting in my youthfull days to have freequently smoak’d what was than Call’d a thanksgiving pipe with you, and beleving at this time that you have some remenbrance of me. I am Enclined to address you. The people in this Town & Vicinity from various Causes, have been warmly attachd to the french. The publication of the memorial of our Envoy Extraordinary to geather with the requisition for Monies on the part of the french, has Opperated like a Charm in Changing the Oppinions of the People. Lately about forty young men Assembled & formd them selves into a Military Companey by the name of the Lunenburg Musketteers. They have Compleatly armd and Uniformd themselves, with the avow’d Intention of Offering thair Service to Government. It has pleasd the Supream Being to contineau my life fifty four years. My new Imployment (Agriculture) agrees with my Constitution—I am blest with health. Thinking it the indispencible duty of every one at this Crisis, to stand fourth in defence of our Religion, Liberty & Laws. have mounted the emblem of a Patriot in my hat, & hope to be inabled to palsy the arm that shall attempt to dismount it. I have the pleasure to think this emblem will become general in this Town, and a true Index to the heart. That you Valuable life may be preserved until the designs of Providence are accomplishd in the great Commotions of the Inhabitants of this Globe, that you may have the satisfaction, after Compleating the Ardurus task Assignd you, of Enjoying the rights of Man with you fellow Citizens, under the restraint of Equel Laws of our Country, haveing none to mollest or make Affraid, is my fervent wish. My respectfull Compliments with Mrs. Cunninghams to your Lady. belive me my Dear Sir to be very Respectfully your most Humble Servant

William Cunningham


Title: To John Adams from Arthur St. Clair, 30 July 1798
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Cincinnati 30t. July 1798.

It is with peculiar satisfaction that I prent to you, at the request of the Officers & privates of a Troop of Horse, organised and equipped at this place, their resolutions and Address Rendering their Services to the united States; and they are equipped, Sir, in a manner that would & do honor to any Troop of Horse in the World.
Their offer, Sir, is the effusion of pure patriotism, and may be considered as the first fruits of an infant people, offered to the Country which with pride, they call their mother Country.—who are grateful for the ample protection they have received, and who look forward, as to no very distant Object, to the time when they shall be admitted to an equal participation of all the privileges and advantages secured by its Constitution; and who have seen with admiration the unexampled instances of temper, of virtue, of firmness and a sincere desire of peace which the Government have exhibited:—In the support of that Constitution and its adminision they are ready shed the last drop of their bloods; for they are, Sir, a sober, an industrious and a moral people, who knew the value of liberty.—In expressing these Sentiments, Sir, I know that I express their sentiments, at the same time that I discharge a duty pleasing to myself, and, it is hoped, will be acceptable to You.
I have the honor to be with all Respect / Sir, / Your obedient Servant
Ar. St. Clair


Title: To John Adams from Jonathan Wild, 30 July 1798
From: Wild, Jonathan
To: Adams, John

Boston 30th July 1798

We the Subscribers, being acquainted with Mr. Elihu Bates, Do Recommend him as a person of Integrity, and Honor; a man prudent and Active in Business, and one In our opinion, In whom Confidence may with Safty be Reposed.

Jonathan Wild Edward Brinley Abraham Wild Elisha Wild Daniel Wild Lemuel Gardner Francis Edward Brinley Junr. Lenz Bryant Thomas Leach Nathan Webb John Tileston Ashur Adams Henry Smith Samuel Wallis Edward Procter Daniel Baxter Jona. Merry Henry L. Smith Jacob Holland Seth Kent Geo. Brinley M. Parkes


Title: To John Adams from J. Senman, 31 July 1798
From: Senman, J.
To: Adams, John

East chester July 31st 1798

The schoolmaster of this little village is happy to see you once more reposing from the toils of State and in the bosom of Your family, as he has the best heart in the world towards Your administration, in the Small Sphere that he moves in, he is ever anxious to promote the public welfare if the inclosed little peices for your Inspection at a vacant hour if they meet your Approbation I will make them public.
That Your Excellency may long continue the delight of your Country, and of foreigners is the honest wish of the Subscriber,
J. Senman


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 31 July 1798
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department. 31. July 1798.

The Acts of Congress authorize the President to cause to be procured, from the Public money appropriated for the purpose, & the Public Spirit of the Citizens,Six Vessels, not to exceed 18 Guns each.Twelve not to exceed 24 Guns—&Six, not less than 32 Guns.
Of the Six, not to exceed 18 Guns,—one I have directed to be purchased at Norfolk, from the very favorable representation of Capt McNeill, of one he saw there, on the Stocks—and two others are building by the Merchants of Baltimore—the first I hope may be at sea in five or six Weeks, the other two, in three months.
Of the 12, not to exceed 24 Guns, five have been procured by purchase—the Herald of Boston—the Ganges & the Delaware, of Philadelphia, and the Baltimore, & Montezuma, of Baltimore.—The three first, are at sea, unless the Herald, should still remain at Boston, but at any rate, she must be now ready,—one of the other two, at Baltimore, will be ready in a Week, and the other in the month of August.—and there have been contracted for by the Public, four Ships to carry 24 Guns—one at Portsmouth—one at New York, one at Newport and one at Riddleton, on Connecticut River—the three first will be launched within three months—I fear the other, will be longer delayed. The Merchants at Boston are building one 24 Gun ship, the merchants of Newbury another, and I have no doubt, another will be supplied by the Merchants of Richmond Petersburg & Norfolk.
Of the six, not to be less than 32 Guns, the merchants of Phila. are building one to carry 44 guns—the Merchants of New York one to carry 36 Guns.—and arrangements have been made for going on with the three Frigates, so long ago began, at Portsmouth—New York & Norfolk.
There remains then, three ships of not exceeding 18 Guns, One not exceeding 24 Guns, & one not less than 32 Guns, to be provided—Of the three 18 Gun Ships I expect one will be obtained at Charleston, partly from Public, partly from private money, one at Providence by the same means, & I hope the subscription at Salem, will at least furnish the other.
The Merchants of the Richmond Petersburg & Norfolk, I rely, will furnish the 24 Gun Ship—But I am at a loss to Judge at present, from whence, the ship of 32 Guns or upwards, will be obtained.—Some steps must be speedily taken on the subject, and I will do myself the honor to advise you, the moment, it is decided how this Ship is to be provided.
I do not expect that any of the ships upwards of 32 Guns will be launched before next April—In that month, I hope all will be launched, & no effort on my part shall be spared, to have them launched sooner—All the other ships I hope will be at sea, long before that time.
I have the honor to be / with the highest respect & esteem / Sir Yr. Most Obed Servt

Ben Stoddert


Title: To John Adams from George Thatcher, 31 July 1798
From: Thatcher, George
To: Adams, John

Sir
Biddeford July 31—1798

The inclosed address came to me under cover two days ago; it was directed for Philadelphia—
I dont know whether I should think it proper to trouble you with it after the numerous addresses from individuals, Towns & the State, were it not for the peculiar circumstance expressed in the Letter of the committee to me—“This town had generally thought it unnecessary to address the President on the occasion, as the General Court of this commonwealth had done it—and Kittery had a member there; however to our great surprise and astonishment mortification, it lately appears to us that he was so lost to every principle of duty as to give his vote in the negative of that address—Therefore we now consider it our indispensable duty to forward one immediately & if you should think it proper, please to apologize to his Excellency for being so late and give him the above reason—”
With the most perfect Respect / I am, Sir / Your most obedient Servant

George Thatcher—


Title: To John Adams from Francois de Navoni, 31 July 1798
From: Navoni, Francois de
To: Adams, John

					Caillery le 31. juillet 1798:

				Le soussigné Consul Garant des Nations qu’ils n’ont point de Consul fixe dans tout ce Royaume de Sardaigne, par la presente tréz respectueuse se fait un vray devoir de s’addresser a la tréz Puissante Souveraineté, et protection de V.E. pour luy faire present, comme dans les dites Nations Etrangeres qu’ils me sont appuyées de ce Gouvernement pour les aider, proteger, et favoriser, y est compris la puissante Nation des Provinces unies Ameriquaines, et de mon long service depuis l’année 1769: j’ay eû plusieurs ocasions favorables de temoigner a la même, qu’a ses Sujets touts les impressemts. les plus favorables, comme aussi pandant la presante Guerre certains Navires Ameriquains qui ont eté injustement arretés par des Corsaires français, je me suis donné sur le champ les mouvements possibles pour procurer leur relache ainsi que du Chargement, et principalement le Capne. Guillaume Brüe arreté deux fois, et conduit en Corse, relaché,  repris, et conduit içy qu’apprès beaucoup de peine et fatigue j’ay eté heureux  de le faire relacher, ainsy, que dernierement  le Vaisseau La Cleopatre Capne. Siton de Naples pour la Neuw York, arreté et conduit içy  qu’apprèz avoir soutenu un’année un injuste Proçés fut relaché des Corsaires français, et partit pour  sa destination ou il  avoit sur recharge trèz honnette Sujet Monsieur Urban Brüe qu’il m’a promis a son heureuse arrivèe de se presenter au Supreme Congrès, et donner des informations dema Conduite, que de l’estime que j’ay, dans toutes les occasions, temoigne a la Nation, m’ayant fait esperer, de la justice tréz connüe de V.E. les Patentes de Consul fixe avec tout honneur, prerogatives, et distinctions; Le même plusieurs fois pas ses gracieuse lettres j’ay etè remercié de Monsieur le Consul Filips a Livourne, m’assura de son empressement près de l’Illustre Congrès,  et avoir l’honneur, ainsi que la graçe des Patentes de Consul fixe, les quelles j’implore humblement; Autres Vaissaux Ameriquains qu’ils ont mouillé içy pour des provisions, que pour le mauvais temps destinés pour Naples, Livorne, et Genes, je me suis fait un devoir de les favoriser, que de leur avancer de l’argent dans leurs besoins, le tout bien connu au même Consul a Livourne du quel je jouis sa Correspondance. Excellence, la presente occasion me procure l’honneur de luy faire present, que dans ce Royaume, nous avons, des trèz bonnes Salines, qu’elles produisent du trèz excellent Sel artificiel, et naturel, et toutes les années, plusieurs Batimts., Suedois, Anglois, Danois, et Hollondois, en chargent pour le Nord, il se vend a Salmes; chaque salme est presque 12: quintaux poids de françe, et la Salme se paye 10. Royaux monnoye Sarde, qui font un Ecû Sarde, a savoir, une piastre forte d’Espagne est 11: royaux, donc une Salme de Sel de 12: Quintaux, et un  Royau moins d’une Piastre, de mieux un Sequin Venitien vaut 2. Ecûs Sardes et demy, qu’ils seroient deux Salmes et demy de Sel, et point d’autres fraix, parceque avec des Batteaux on conduit le Sel a bord du Vaisseau qui charge. A tout ceque j’ay l’honneur de proposer a V.E. je m’offre aussy de prendre les Lettres de Change de quelque ce soit Battiment Americain a 30. joûrs de vûe sur ses Propritaires de l’Amerique, s’ils n’ont point des fonds pour charger le Sel et la Lettre de Change sera reglée en florins Banco d’hollande, savoir un florin sont 4. Royeaux monnoye Sarde, et de plus si quelque Battiment Ameriqueain veut porter son fond pour charger le sel en Marchandises je les accipteray, soit Sucre, Caffè de la Morue, et quelconque Negociant se peut bien regler par les informations de la presante a V.E.  un Lastre Commerçe est calculé 5. Salmes de Sel, un Vaisseau de 100. Lastres peut a peu pres porter 500: Salmes de Sel, le fond de cette Valeur peut l’avoir en Sucre, Caffè, Morüe, et il profite du benefice de la Marchandise. Un tel detail, si V.E. le trouve convenable, et de son plaisir peut bien le faire publier dans la Gazette, ou journal puisque quelque ce soit Proprietaire de Vaisseau puisse etre informé de tout que pour connoitre evidement mes empressements et offres pour la Nation, que le commerçe, et dans le cours du tems je qualifieray, mon devoir, empressement et respect. Je renouvelle, Monseigneur mes supplications, si je puis esperer de V.E.  la graçe de me faire acorder du Puissant Congrès les Patentes de Consul General de ce Royaume que du moment qu’ils m’honoreront l’Expedition, en participer la Cour de Turin pour que je puisse etre admis et reconnu comme les autres Consuls et de même se daignera me qualifier dans les Patentes expliquee, que je suis distingué avec le titre de Comte, et que je suis noble dans ce Royaume; une favorable reponse me reussira  toujoûrs glorieuse, a telles mes Esperances, que je ne doute point de la justice de V.E. que du Puissant Congrès, comm’aussi de m’honnorer de ses ordres precieux les quels j’executeray sur le Champ, et avec le plus humble respect, Veneration, et obbeissence j’ay l’honneur de m’humilier. / De Votre Excellence / Le Très Humble, Le Très obbeissant & / Le Très Fidele Serviteur
					Co: François NavoniConsul Garant


Title: From John Adams to Students of Harvard College, July 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Harvard College, Students of

					To The Students Of Harvard University, In Massachusetts. Gentlemen,
					July 1798

The companions, studies, and amusements of my youth, under the auspices of our alma mater, whom I shall ever hold in the highest veneration and affection, came fresh to my remembrance on receiving your address.The maxims of life and the elements of literature, which have ever been inculcated in that ancient seat of education, could produce no other sentiments, in a juncture like this, than such as you have condensed into a form so concise, with so much accuracy, perspicuity, and beauty.

Removed from the scenes of intemperate pleasures, occupied with books, which impress the purest principles, and directed by governors, tutors, and professors, famous for science as well as eminent in wisdom, the studious youth of this country, in all our universities, could not fail to be animated with the intrepid spirit of their ancestors. Very few examples of degenerate characters are ever seen issuing from any of those seminaries. It is impossible that young gentlemen of your habits can look forward with pleasure to a long career of life, in a degraded country, in society with disgraced associates. Your first care should be to preserve the stage from reproach, and your companions in the drama from dishonor.

But if it were possible to suppose you indifferent to shame, what security can you have for the property you may acquire, or for the life of vegetation you must lead? What is to be the situation of the future divine, lawyer, or physician? the merchant or navigator? the cultivator or proprietor?

Your youthful blood has boiled, and it ought to boil. You need not, however, be discouraged. If your cause should require defence in arms, your country will have armies and navies in which you may secure your own honor, and advance the power, prosperity, and glory of your contemporaries and posterity.

					John Adams.


Title: From John Adams to Freemasons of State of Maryland, July 1798
From: Adams, John
To: State of Maryland, Freemasons of

				To The Freemasons Of The State Of Maryland.
					Gentlemen,
					July 1798

				I thank you for this generous and noble address.

The zeal you display to vindicate your society from the imputations and suspicions of being “inimical to regular government and divine religion,” is greatly to your honor. It has been an opinion of many considerate men, as long as I can remember, that your society might, in some time or other, be made an instrument of danger and disorder to the world. Its ancient existence and universal prevalence are good proofs that it has not heretofore been applied to mischievous purposes; and in this country I presume that no one has attempted to employ it for purposes foreign from its original institution. But in an age and in countries where morality is, by such numbers, considered as mere convenience, and religion a lie, you are better judges than I am, whether ill uses have been or may be made of Masonry.

Your appeal to my own breast, and your declaration that I shall there find your sentiments, I consider as a high compliment; and feel a pride in perceiving and declaring that the opinions, principles, and feelings expressed are conformable to my own. With you I fear that no hope remains but in preparation for the worst that may ensue.

Persevere, gentlemen, in revering the Constitution which secures your liberties, in loving your country, in practising the social as well as the moral duties, in presenting your lives, with those of your fellow–citizens, a barrier to defend your independence, and may the architect all–powerful surround you with walls impregnable, and receive you, finally (your country happy, prosperous, and glorious), to mansions eternal in the Heavens!

With heart–felt satisfaction, I reciprocate your most sincere congratulations on an occasion the most interesting to Americans. No light or trivial cause would have given you the opportunity of beholding your Washington again relinquishing the tranquil scenes in delicious shades. To complete the character of French philosophy and French policy, at the end of the eighteenth century, it seemed to be necessary to combat this patriot and hero.

					John Adams.


Title: To John Adams from George Conway, 1 August 1798
From: Conway, George
To: Adams, John

1 August 1798

At a respectable meeting of the citizens of Green, and Town of Greenville in the State of Tennessee convened at Mr. Dewoodys at the town aforesaid on the 1st. August in the year of our Lord 1798, the following resolutions were unanimously agreed to (Majr. Genl. George Conway in the Chair, Major Baldwin Harle Secretary).
1. Resolved that in every republican Government, it is the duty of all good citizens when their rights are invaded, and their existance as an independent nation threatened by any Power whatsoever, to come forward and with manly firmness to express their Sentiments on the Subject.
2d. That although we ourselves are not engaged in the pursuits of Commerce, yet we are interested in the prosperity and protection of our Commercial bretheren, who are reciprocally benefitted by the proceeds of Agriculture; that therefore an attack by a foreign Power on either interest is injurious to the Common-weal, and threatens our existance as a free and independent people.
3d. Resolved that the Republic of France in refusing the reception of, and in disdainfully rejecting the Envoys Extraordinary of the United States have added wanton insult to their numerous injuries and aggressions against our common Country.
4th. Resolved that the instructions of the President of the United States to our Envoys Extraordy. were candid, liberal & mild, and indicative of a wise and pacific Policy; that our ministers have acted in conformity to the spirit of the same, and should have been “received, respected and honoured as the Representatives of a great, free, powerful and independent nation.”
5th. Resolved, That we will support the Laws, the Constitution, the Government, and Independence of our Country as far as in our power.—
6th: Resolved that Col: Daniel Kennedy, Majr. Baldwin Harle, Capt. Christopher Conway, Capt. James Stinson, and Messrs Robert Wyly, John Russell, Hopkins Lacy, James Temple and Edmond Harrison be a Committee to draw up and transmit an Address to the President of the United States expressive of the foregoing resolutions—
To John Adams Esqr.
President of the United States—
Sir
The inhabitants of the County of Green in the State of Tennessee deeply impressed with the truly critical and alarming situation of their Country, take the liberty of addressing a few observations to their Cheif Majestrate on the subjects. In every Republican Government, it becomes the sacred duty of free and independent Citizens under Similar circumstances to step forward and with candid firmness to express their sentiments. Although far distant from the Seat of Government, and protected by the beneficent hand of Nature from the immediate aggressions of Transatlantic Powers, yet as Citizens of the Union, possessing a common interest, in the honour and independence of their Country, they participate in the feelings of their bretheren in the Eastern & Atlantic states. The indulgent hand of an all-wise Providence is eminently traced in the innumerable advantages attending our local situation. To America, it is given to enjoy at the same time the cheering fruits of industrious Commerce, and the domestic sweets of peaceful agriculture. In our Commerce and Agriculture consist the wealth and Resources of the Union. Although we ourselves are not engaged in the pursuits of the former, yet we are interested in the prosperity and protection of our commercial bretheren; who are reciprocally benefitted by the proceeds of Agriculture. An attack by the ruthless hand of foreign Power on either interest is destructive of the Common-weal, and threatens our existance as a free and independent people. That France has lost sight of the pursuit of rational liberty, that She has for several years rioted on the Spoils of our lawful Commerce, that She has imprisoned our fellow–Citizens, that She has treated with piratical barbarity our American seamen, that She has twice insulted and rejected with insolence and contempt, our Messages of peace, that She is now exciting a Savage foe to ravage our peaceable frontiers, that She has subjugated to her tyranny a great part of Europe and now threatens America with the Scourge of her despotism, is a Subject of our deepest regret. But while it occasions our regret it excites our indignation. Our forefathers have purchased Independence with their richest blood and treasure. The precious inheritance will not be ignomeniously Surrendered by their Sons. It affords us the highest satisfaction that your instructions to our Envoys were candid, liberal and mild, and indicative of a wise and pacific policy. It does honour to our Ministers that they acted in conformity to the spirits of the same. They ought to have been “received, respected and honoured as the Representatives of a great free, powerful and independent Nation”—
Whatever calculations may have been made by our enemies of having friends in America, and Suggestions that those friends were in the Western Country—We Assure you Sir, our Confidence remains unabated in the administration of our Government, and that we are unanimous in the resolution to defend the Constitution, the Laws, the liberty and independence of our Country.—We cannot conclude this address without expressing our heartfelt gratitude on the appointment of Geo. Washington as Lieut. Genl & Commander in Cheif of the Armies of the United States. We submit our Cause with cheerfulness to that Providence, who once Smiled propitious on his efforts. Should dire necessity again exist, we confidently trust he will once more prove the Saviour of his Country.—
Signed

George Conway Chairmn.Baldwin Harle SecyI do certify that the foregoing are true Copies of the original proceedings of the Inhabitants of Green County, transmitted by Post to the President of the United States early in the month of August last.

Baldwin Harle


Title: To John Adams from Oliver Whipple, 1 August 1798
From: Whipple, Oliver
To: Adams, John

Esteemed & respected Sir,
Hampton NH. Augt. 1st 1798

Permit me to steal into your Presence, and claim for a moment your attention from national Concerns; it is a Friend that addresses you; & when you see the Signature, many early occurrences will press on the Mind, & Scenes, then only in Embrio, which now unfold in the Glare of day, will make us wonder at the strange Vicisitudes of Providence: I remember with the happiest Reflection the western Chamber of that peacfull & rural Mansion of your late worthy & honorable Father, at Braintree, where I laid the first Foundation of Classic Knowledge, under the Patronage of the good and learned Mr. Marsh, to whom, as well as to you, I feel myself at this day indebted; to him for his steady attention, in his preceptorial Labours. To you, for your frequent Instruction, friendly and Judicious Advice. Little did either of us think, (I speak, however more for myself) of the strange Events, which the Leaves of Time have unfolded; You at the Period had gone through your Collegiate Studies, and the accustom’d Routine in the Professional Line, and in full Practice; I a simple Country Boy, just exploring the first to me, then hard, Rudiments of the Classic Fount: at this Period, Peace with expanded Wing, hovered over our then Colonial Domains, we were as a People appearantly happy, but the Seeds of this rising Empire were sowed by the jealous Power of that Nation, from whom we have been lately so gloriously emancipated, and were then cherish’d to Maturity, by her proud & unreasonable Exactions. Did it enter into our Hearts or our Heads, at that Period, when our Colonies were injoying Repose, attached by Laws & Policy  to a then Mother Country, when Interest & Habits had held so long a Dominion over our minds, that Providence by a Concatenation of strange, yet interesting Events, should produce the Germ of Revolution in her Colonies, and the compleat Orginization of a feaderated Government, & that you thro’ many honorable important & official Grades should arrive to the Presidency of the United States, & that the Country Boy as a Legislative Member of one of them, should be chosen as one of a Committee of that Body to address you, and your worthy Predecessor, on Behalf of such State, upon the most important national affairs; surely Integrity, Virtue and Patriotism have borne you on their Wings to this Seat of Honour. Vanity, you will agree with me, ought never to be cherished, but a laudable Pride may be indulged; I confess one or other of these, call it, which you please, has taken strong hold of me; Have I not a Right to feel a Pride that the President of these States, once condescended, in a friendly Manner, occasionally to advise & instruct me, & teach the Young Ideas how to shoot? To Permit me to injoy the Priviledge of his Chamber, in the Intermission of School hours, while persuing my accademical Studies, and more for that affable and obliging Manner in which I was treated, to which my Years, and Knowledge had little or no Claim? These things are as fresh in my Memory as tho they were of Yesterday.—Indulge me respected Sir to relate a few Facts that are more immideately relative to myself. While our late civil Commotions with Britain raged in our Country, some of my nearest Connections, were divided in Sentiment, but my Conduct at that trying Era was unequivocal. I twice stood in the Ranks and suffered a draft; and when the Island of Newport was about to be attacked, I took my Musket and peraded under General Sullivan, as a Volunteer, with others of our Countrymen. As soon as War gave way to the Return of Peace, and our State Constitution was established, I had the Honour of being appointed a Justice of the Quorum, and soon after, while General Sullivan was President of the State, was appointed a Colonel of the Alaram Core, who were exercised for the first Time, under my Command, & bro’t into the Field reviewed by him as Commander in Chief, at a general Review; where, not only my Troops had perticular Marks of his attentien Approbation on the Field, but I had the Honour of Thanks in Generall Orders, for the Soldier like Conduct of my Troops: it was at this Period, that the Militia of Newhampshire, rivalled the Militia of every other State; The General was pleased to say, he had no Idea of my Knowledge in military Tacticks; The Fact was, while I held a Commission in the Revenue, under the Crown, previous to the American War, and resided at St. Augustine, at that Time four British Regments were stationed there, I made it my Study at Leisure hours, to acquaint myself with the military art, and Scarse a day passed, but I attended the Perading & Exercising of the Troops, & their Garrison Duty. Before the War I returned, and took my station in Newhampshire, where I have had the Honour to see you, and hope to be indulged again with the like Favour. Tho’ I say it, who should not say it, “as the Saying is” I will not consider myself second to any in Exactness and Elegance of Disipline or military Tacticks, in our State, let him be general or whatever Rank he may possess, of this respected Sir you will hear more, tho’ not from me. I am still a Subject of this State and live now at my Farm House in Hampton, (late General Moulton’s) While I superintend my agricultural affairs, in my more Leisure Hours, my Pen has on many Occasions been imployed in the Cause of our Country, I endeavour to make as happy a Coinsedence of Busness, Profit and amusement, as Circumstances will admit, keeping in Mind, the Omne, tulit Punctum of my Favorite Horace; Here was I burdened with the weight and arduous affairs of State, I could (after the Manner of this Great Scipio & Lælius, gather Pebbles, for Relaxation & amusement) on one of the finest Beaches in the World. Since my Retirment to a Country Scene, which is five years I have had every Mark of Attention paid me, that our Villages can give; Their suffrages have four Times placed me in the Legislature of the State, of which I am now a Member, and in which Capacity, as well as in private, I have uniformly exerted myself, in Favour of our Excellent Constitution and Laws,  and for those distinguished Characters, who have had, & now have the administration of them. I was asked the other day, how it came about that I have not been honour’d with some little Mark of Attention from the feoderal Government, being a feoderal & leading Member in our Legislature, I told him several Things were necessary to obtain appointments, but as I had not solicited one thro’ the Medium of any of my Friends, I could blame no one, as I had not been heretofore Solicitous about it; Tho’ my Friends and Relations in the State of Rhode Island were the first in Character and Fortune, and first in Attachment, there, to our feoderal Goverment, Yet I had not even solicited Them to recommend me to our Executive, and as I had not a single Relation in Newhampshire, of Course I could not belong to Those family Compacts, here, who were the constant Seekers after the Loaves and Fishes, but when I applied, it should be to the Fountain Head, and thro’ no Medium or Junto’s, who have pretended. That the Streams from the Fountain can scarsely flow but thro’ such Channels, & to such Objects, as they are pleased to designate. I have to this Period spent a great Part of my youth in a professional Round of Busness, I have now arranged my affairs in such Manner, as I can leave them without Injury, I now offer my Services to the Public, and to you as the Head of a great and rising Empire. Should the office of Commissioner of the direct Taxation be undesposed of, I pledge myself, in Case of Appointment, to discharge its Duties with the greatest Punctuality and Integrity and can procure the best men in our State for Bondsmen.—I should even delight in Defence of our Country, and to avenge its wrongs, to enter our national army, in a Character that would not degrade my Standing. I have never till this Time solicited a Favour from our Executive, nor asked a Recommendation for any office whatever except a Line, I once had the Honour of addressing to you while Vice-President, for an office, which did not take Place; I depend on myself, my own Interest & abilities, in whatever I undertake, but your Favours & Smiles will ever be grateful to me, and it will be the most pleasing Circumstance of my Life, that you will give this lengthy detail a candid Reading, and that I may under your Favour and Friendship Serve my Country with Honour, and Fidelity, I am Sir with the greatest Veneration, and Respect your Excellency’s most obedt. and very humble Servt:

Oliver Whipple
PS As the above, and foregoing is wrote in private Confidence, I dare say it will remain so with you, I take the Liberty to inclose, to your Excellency a little Scrap, wrote in a Leisure hour by the author about the Time Mr. Livingstone demanded in Congress the Papers relative to the Treaty Busness, it was published before it was properly corrected, you will Therefore excuse its Inacuracy. The Author, had he had the Means, of Information, at that Point of Time, would have inlarged its Scope, and Taken in some more Characters by this you may Judge what the author’s sentiments are of men and Measures, and of the Designs upon us, now unfolding by the Conduct of the French Nation....


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 2 August 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State Augt. 2. 1798.

I have the honor to inclose the petition of Robert Worrall, a prisoner in the gaol of Philadelphia, convicted of a misdemeanor, in offering a bribe to Tench Coxe the late Commissioner of the Revenue.
I formerly mentioned his case to you, in consequence of the application of two respectable citizens of Philadelphia, whose information greatly extenuated the offence, and satisfied me that Worrall without any original thought of offering a bribe, was ensnared into the commission of a crime.
Considering his utter inability ever to pay the fine, while a family is anxiously looking for his discharge as their necessary resource for subsistence; and the board of inspectors of the gaol (who are men of great worth) having certified their opinion that Worrall deserved the clemency of government, and as he remains in confinement solely in consequence of his inability to pay the fine—the three months imprisonment to which he was sentenced having expired the 20th—of July; I have ventured to get Mr. Rawle to draw up an act for the remission of the fine, without previously consulting you, seeing it might occasion Worrall’s confinement a fortnight longer than was necessary, if under all the circumstances of his case you should think proper to remit the fine.—The Act of remission is also inclosed.
Mr. Harper handed me yesterday a letter addressed to you, which I have the honor to send herewith; and am, with great respect, / Sir, your most obt. servt.

Timothy Pickering
P.S. Ten copies of the instructions to & dispatches from our Envoys to France go addressed to you by this mail.


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Smith, 2 August 1798
From: Smith, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir
Baltimore 2d August 1798

I take the liberty to enclose you the copy of a letter which I shall address to the Publick tomorrow—I think it my duty to apologize to you for repeating a conversation which passed at your table & for thus infringing on the rules of hospitality & society—The necessity of defending myself against what I conceived to be a misrepresentation will I flatter myself plead my apology—I have no right to expect an answer; I address you Solely with a view to make that apology for what would in any other case be considered by myself as a transgression of the rules of propriety & have the honor to be / Sir / Your most obedt Servt

Sam Smith


Title: To John Adams from A. Baird, 2 August 1798
From: Baird, A.,Acheson, David
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Washington (Penn.) August 2d. 1798.

Herewith we transmit you the Address of the subscribers, Democratic Republicans, of the Town and County of Washington in the State of Pennsylvania—in whose behalf / We are, Sir / your Obdt. Servts.

A BairdDavid Acheson


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 3 August 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Department of State Augt. 3. 1798.

I have just received notice of the death of Colo. Innes, and that his remains are to be interred this forenoon. By the mail of to-morrow I will send a commission for your signature for the gentleman you shall be pleased to name for his successor.
The inclosed letter from Colo. Spencer with the address of Columbia and the neighbouring towns in the northwestern territory, I received this morning.
This moment I have opened a letter from Mr. Gerry, dated the 13th of May, of which I inclose a copy. The dispatches he refers to are chiefly in cypher, and cannot be prepared for this day’s post: but one of the three papers, I see, contains Talleyrand’s letter to him of April 3d, and Mr. Gerry’s answer, which he sent to you: The other papers are his letter to me dated May 12th covering his letter to Talleyrand of April 20.
I have the honor to be / with great respect, / sir yr. most obt. servt.

Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 3 August 1798
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department 3d August 1798.

The Regt. of Marines, under the Command of Major Burrows, is to supply Detachments of Marines, to the Ships of War, as they shall be wanted.
A Detachment will be wanted in the course of this month, for the Montezuma at Baltimore, and in next month, for the Ganges and for the Norfolk, a Brig of 18 Guns at Norfolk. It seems to be necessary then, that a part of this Regt. Should be raised without delay. I have the honor therefore to inclose for your consideration, a list of names, for Officers in this Regt. with the names of the Persons by whom they have been recommended. There will be more officers to appoint for the Marines, but the ap present applicants, do not appear to be so well divided among the States as they might be—and further appointments may be delayed without injury.
The Ship Montezuma at Baltimore will be ready for Sea in this Month—and the French the Schooner Prize La Croyable, now called Retaliation, in twelve Days—I have also enclosed lists of Officers, with their recommendations, for these Vessels. This latter Vessel was purchased by the Public a few Days ago, at the Sale—and may be considered as one of the Ten Gallies or other small vessels, under the “Act, to authorize the President of the United States, to cause to be purchased or built a number of small Vessels to be equipped as Gallies or otherwise”.
I have the honor to be / with the highest respect & / esteem sir Yr. most Obedt. / Servt.

Ben Stoddert


Title: To John Adams from Charles Lee, 4 August 1798
From: Lee, Charles
To: Adams, John

Sir
Philadelphia 4. august 1798

The death of Col Innes which happened on the 2d instant has made a vacancy in the commission for carrying into effect the sixth article of the treaty of amity with Great Britain, that should be filled as soon as you can with satisfaction to yourself fix on his Successor. The difference of opinion that prevails on the most important points relative to the construction of the article between the Commissioner on our part Mr. Fitzsimons, and the british commissioners, is of that kind that it seems certain to me, that a negotiation on these points will be or rather is indispensable. To this state of things some reference should be had in filling up the present vacancy, with a man of weight in america as well as of consideration in the eyes of Britain. The Gentlemen who have been named are Mr. Ames & Mr. Parsons of Massachusetts Mr. Richard Potts of Maryland, Mr. Charles Simms and William Davis of Virginia, Mr Saml. Sitgreaves of Pennsylvania and Mr. Alfred Moore of North Carolina. Most of these gentlemen are sir personally known to you, and therefore I shall not presume to trouble you with my particular sentiments further than to give an opinion concerning the gentlemen with whom I am acquainted. If Mr. Ames can undertake the office, I think he is to be preferred, next to him Mr. Potts next to him Mr. Sitgreaves. At the same time I must observe that  I am personally unacquainted with Mr. Parsons and Mr. Moore. Mr. Simms will be very safe in my opinion; but I do not find that other gentlemen here think so highly of his abilities as I do: and Mr. Davis I think the least qualified of all.
I have the honor to remain with / perfect respect sir your most obed servant

Charles Lee