Title: From John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 3 July 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

My ever dear sir
Quincy July 3. 1816

Your Letter of May 6th. like all your other Letters for more than 20 years has been a cordial to me.
I approve of your judicious Œconomy in the purchases of Books. I have need of Parcimony. Your great grandmother used often to Say “What a Mercy it is, that the Lords keeps some People poor.” If I was not poor, I should plague you to death, in hunting Books for me all over Europe. Oh! What a Building I should erect of Quincy North Common Granite, capable of holding the Library of Alexandria! And keep you in constant Correspondence with the Library Company of Amsterdam, and them in constant Correspondence with all Europe to Search for curious and Strange Books.
This is a Rage; a Mania; a delirium or at least an Enthusiasm which I desire you to correct in me and in yourself, and in your Son George. I know of none other who wants correction.
England is not the Country of Books. They are cheap in holland. Everett and Tickenor Are said to have made a fortune at least the Expences of their Travels by buying Books in Holland and Sending them to Boston.
This Morning, for the first time I have looked in the Dictionaire historique for Bekkor. Bid my dear George look for that name.
The English Translation instead of “The World bewitched,” Should have been “the World bedevilled.” The anonymous Note is in Style. “They have been often refuted” is in the Ecclesiastical Style. But when? Where? and how have they been refuted?
Think no more of “The Defence” unless you can procure me, a Copy of the German Translation.
I once gave three dollars for the Travells in Silesia, which have been stolen from me. I would not take three Guineas for the Copy you have Sent me.
Your dear Mother has been Sick all Winter, and Sometimes almost despairing of Life: but you would be overjoyed to See, how She has recovered her former Activity Spirit Will and Sense. I take great delight in riding out with her, every fair day. But She makes me tremble by her uncontroulable Attachment to the Superintendence of Every Part of her Household. Alas! How few minutes either Of Us have to live!
My dear George gives me great Anxiety. I have builded Strong hopes upon him. His rapid Grouth is a dangerous distemper. Would it not be advisable to Send him home, where he can ride and Walk at his Leisure and pleasure and go to Colledge when he gets well. The Clymate of England produces billious disorders in all Strangers. I never could get the better of them, but by a Trip to Holland. Sea sickness the Mal de Mere always cured me. Love to all.
A.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 4 July 1816
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					My Dear Mother
					Ealing 4 July 1816.

				We have been some time now without receiving Letters from you, although we have heard of you from other branches of the family. In your last Letters to the Children you mention the approaching marriage of Susan which ere this has probably taken place should it be so I must beg you will make my congratulations acceptable with every good wish for her future happiness.We are here plunged into the great World notwithstanding our distance from London, and between three and four times a week we are not in bed until three or four oClock in the morning: the fashionable hours for entering into Society being eleven and twelve at night. I cannot conceive how it happens, but this mode of life seems to agree perfectly well with me; for I never enjoyed such health, particularly since my marriage, and I am only afraid of growing too fat.We were invited to a Ball given by the Prince Regent about a fortnight since which we attended. the ettiquette of this Court is much changed since you were here when both Ladies and Gentlemen were presented to the King now it is otherwise no Ladies are presented to the Regent and I have been twice to Carlton House by invitation without even receiving a bow from its Master I am so much of an old fashionist that I confess I feel very awkward under such circumstances and never know how to behave I do not like to find myself in a House where I am not acknowledged as an acquaintance—The hall into which we were conducted is circular and resembles very much the Rotunda which was formerly called Ranclugh and which I believe was a very fashionable place of resort when you were in England but which is now no more. It was hung with pink Cotton over which were draperies of muslin and in the centre was a hower in which the music was stationed altogether it had a pretty effect though it did not strike me very much after having witnessed the fetes in Russia upon the return of the Emperor which were infinitely more splendid and in  a far better taste. We had been there about an hour when the Queen was led in by the Prince Regent and they went round the Circle, to make their compliments to Nobility. Dancing then commenced and to the astonishment of many, Valtzing was for the first time introduced, this has given rise to many  mauvaise plaisanteries in the Papers and to some very satirical verses the English Ladies do not excel in this dance but I am not so charitable as the News paper writers and cannot attribute it to want of confidence which is certainly not the popular failing of the times. The Ball was very animated and English Country dances are quite abolished. The Women are more beautiful than I can describe; they are like the fabled Houri’s of the Turks, no language can do them justice, and this evening in whatever direction you turned your eyes you were sure to meet some lovely object. I am not partial to the manners of the English Ladies, but their beauty is so irrisistable when I see them, I forget every thing else. You will observe by this my Dear Madam that I am as foolish an enthusiast as ever. Among the curiosities of the evening the Duke of Wellington stood foremost what the world denominate great men often lose greatly by a near approach and this effect was fully produced upon me as from a ridiculous association of ideas the foolish calembourg which was made on him by a french Lady of distinction would force itself upon my mind and carried conviction of its justice and severity. she called him the Duke of Viláin Ton. We returned before Supper (in consequence of what the Corps Diplomatic of the second order thought a slight not being invited to the great Table and having no places assigned to us) in a Body and I was very thankful at being released.The next party I was at was the Dutchess of Cumberland which was last Sunday and given I imagine to shew the Q. that she is indifferent as to her approbation The Prince Regent and the Duke of Cambridge were present it is the first time of  I have seen the Princess since I left Berlin she is not so much changed as I expected All the Ministers and their Ladies the Foreign Ambassadors and Ministers with their Ladies and a large party of the Nobility formed the company there was a Concert and some good singing We staid only a short time The Ladies were superbly dressed in the height of the french fashions.On Monday night we were invited to the marriage of the Princess Mary with the Duke of Glocester the company assembled at half past eight and the Queen was handed to her Chair at ha nine The Ambassadors and Ministers Ladies were placed at the left hand of her Majesty. The Duke of Glocester took his place before the Alter and a few minutes after the Princess Mary was led in by the Duke of Cambridge and received by the Prince Regent in the most tender and affectionate manner he supported her throughout the ceremony there was something so modest so delicate in the appearance and conduct of the Bride as fascinated and charmed the whole circle who I believe joined cordially joined in the prayers for her happiness. the contrast between this ceremony and the last was painfully striking, and the really feminine loveliness of the Princess Mary who had neither Youth or Beauty to excite admiration, has stamped the other with universal disgust. It was a most interesting lesson to the Young women of the present day whose bold and forward manners render it necessary as I heard a Gentleman say the other day for men to assume towards them cold and insolent manners to keep them at a proper distance.  Among the number of my fashionable acquaintance I must mention Mr. Sanders a Negro Gentleman who came over from America in the same Vessel with the Children I have been to one Rout at his house and am invited to dine with him next Saturday to meet the Countess of Cork. and in the evening a large party of fashionables. this will amuse Mrs. Perkins. I own it strikes me as almost too ridiculous but I really feel grateful to him for his kindness to my boys of whom he appears to be very fond they are gone to pass a week at Mr. Clarksons.Present me most kindly to all the family and particularly to my father I saw Mrs. Frere the other day who begged me to present her best respects to you and the President. It is time to close this Letter. I find it requires good finances to furnish clothes now I go out so much and the Court is more expensive than ever now we go without the hoops & often we are obliged to have a much greater variety and articles as costly—I know not what will become of me next Winter Mr. A. has been informed several times that the Court of Vienna wish to enter into new relations with the United States which they say would be advantageous to both Countries the same thing has once or twice been said to me I do not know with what view. When I was in Prussia I was likewise told that the King would be glad if Mr. A would go back and make a new Treaty.I am ever affectionately yours

					L C. A.


Title: From Master of Ceremonies of Great Britain to John Quincy Adams, 19 July 1816
From: Master of Ceremonies of Great Britain
To: Adams, John Quincy,Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					South Audley St. Friday July the 19th.

				The Master of the Ceremonies is commanded by His Royal Highness The Prince Regent to invite The American Minister and Mrs. Adams to The Queen’s Palace on Monday next the 22d. Instant between Eight and half past Eight O’clock in the Evening, to be present at the Ceremony of the Marriage of Her Royal Highness The Princess Mary with His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester.—


Title: From John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 24 July 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

My ever dear Sir
Quincy July 24. 16

Sir Isaac Newton, supposes an Ether, to pervade the Universe. To the Action of this Subtile and elastic Fluid, he ascribes Gravitation, Cohesion, Repulsion &c. Hartley makes it the Instrument of propagating his Vibrations.
What is the difference, between Newton, Hartley, Diderot and Grim? All this is mechanical Phylosophy. The Universe is a Chimical Experiment. Invented, performed and compleated, to be sure, by the greatest Chymist in the Universe. But this is all Matter and Mechanism Still. Where is Power? Matter has none. It is dead. It has no Vis, but of Inertia. Where then is the Principle of Motion Action, Thought Sensation, Reflection, Reason and Sentiment?
Ye Newtons, Fredericks, Diderots, D’Holbachs, Ye know nothing of Matter or Spirit! Ye know nothing of Causes, and little of Effects. Ye know enough of your Duties: Attend to them. Be good Fathers, Sons, Brothers, Neighbours, Friends, Patriots, and Phylanthropists, good subjects and Citizens of the Universe and trust the Ruler  with his Skies. For a Ruler there must be: A first Cause there must be, as well as Second Causes and a last End; Though Eternity, a parte ante and parte Post, maybe, and no doubt is necessary to devellope the vast System, incomprehensible but to one Mind.
In all your purchases of Books, and mine too, I believe We have never possessed Bacon or Newton, nor Rymers Federa &c. We have accumulated Trifles and omitted the most important Volumes.
I have Searched the Opinion of Phylosophers ancient and modern. I can agree with none of them. Yet I have a Faith, deliberately fixed I believe in Voltaire as much as in Priestly: that is to Say in neither. I receive hints and Reflections form both, for which I am obliged to them: but I believe in neither.
Sir Isaac, if I remember right, for it is 50 or 60 years Since I read him, resolves all finally into the Agency of the Supream Being. This appears to me as phylosophical as it is pious. But to what Purpose, is this hypothetical Æther introduced? Is our Admiration of the Universe, or our Adoration of its Author increased by representing the Almighty as dancing upon his Wires of Æther  his Puppetts of Sums and Starrs? or playing upon his Æther like a young Lady upon her Harpsicord or Piano Forte.?
More highly do I deem of the Universe and its Author. I veil my Face like a Seraph and cry holy! holy! holy! Worm! confine thyself to thy dust. Do thy duty, in thine own Sphere.
I hope this will go by Mr Bigelow, from
A.


Title: From John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 26 July 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

My ever dear Sir.
Quincy July 26. 1816

In the last Week I have attended the House of Mourning and the house of Feasting. on Thursday I attended as a Paulholder the Funeral of Madam Lincoln the Relict of my ancient Friend General Lincoln Your Mother, Your Cousin Louisa and your Niece Miss Susan, attended Us. We drank Tea at Mr Colmans the Successor of Gay and Ware, in company with Judge Davis Colonel May &c. The Judge told Us what I had heard before, that five years of the Journal of Governor Winthrop had been lately discovered in Mr Princes Balcony of the Old South. It extends from 1644 to 1649, i.e to the Assembly of Divines at Cambridge to Form the Cambridge Platform of Church Government and the curious heretical Snake, whose head was crushed under the resolute Foot of Parson Thompson of Braintree. You, poor Gentleman! know not the Discoveries and Improvements in your native Country, while you are wandering abroad, a Colonelling.
Yesterday I dined with your Brother in a handsome but frugal Family Party, in Company with two or three Strangers, among whom was a Mr Heytema Hoytema A Gentleman of Amsterdam, as Sensible a Foreigner as I have Seen. Such a Feast in my Fathers house next door to that in which you were born you may Suppose gave me Spirits and Reminiscences and Reflections.
Among the Company was a Lt. Clark of the Independence 74 to whom I have bequeathed one of my Epaulets. The other I have reserved four your John provided his Predilection for the Navy contineues.
Pray tell me how Georges health is. There is nothing that gives  more Anxiety to  A.
I pray you not to educate your Sons long in Europe. Pray Send them home soon, that they may not be Aliens in their native Country
A
July 30th.
P.S. You cannot imagine of how much importance I am become. After being buffetted calumniated courted, neglected by turns all my Lifetime, I am lately invited into all Societies and much caressed. Last Night your Mother and your Father, your Cousin and your Niece were at a Party at Mr Marstons, with your Brother and Sister and all the Aristocracy of Quincy, i.e. all the Gentlemen and Ladies, all the genteel People, all the fashionable, all the polite People, all the Well bred, People all the well educated People of our Town, i.e. the agrable Society, the, bon ton, of our beloved Town of Quincy
Bless my heart,! how many feet have your Mother and your Father in the Grave,? and yet how frolicksome We are?
You, my dear Son, have the most delicate and difficult part to Act of your whole Life, on your return to America. Mark my Words. If you are not a Phylosopher of the first Water you will be tortured with Assiduities and Insolencies, that I do not believe, that with all your Sagacity and Experience you foresee.
I repeat my most earnest Request, that you would Soon return your Sons to their own Country to be educated at Harvard Colledge, that they may be there know and be known. That there, their early Friendships may be formed.
I had rather you Send John to be a Midshipman one board one of our Ships, and George to be a Cadet at Westpoint among 270 Young Heroes there educating, than that they Should remain long in Europe.
A.
I had only this paper.


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Sarah Smith Adams, 28 July 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, Sarah Smith

Quincy july 28 1816

Think not my Dear Daughter that I have been silent through want of feelings—I have sympathized with you under the repeated Shames you have been called to endure, in the last I have been no common sharer, I have wept with the relatives, over the remains of a Brave, unfortunate Benevolent Man, a kind affectionate & tender companion of her, whom he has gone to join in the World of Spirits, Separated from whom; he has never since appeared to enjoy Life, or share in its pleasures. his parting with us, two years since was most tender and affectionate, it left a deep impression upon my mind—as tho I should see his face no more. I thought to have gone before him, and may it not be in vain, that we have been thus admonished—may we be led to apply out hearts unto Wisdom.
In a Letter which I received from John of the tenth of May, he writes thus of his uncle Justus, “there never was a Nobler Soul, or more generous spirit animated Man than his was. he had all the ability, and all the disposition to dispence the many blessings which he possest. I shall never forget, but shall always remember with gratitude his exertions, & Sacrifices to make all comfortable about him” poor fellow, he little thought he should so soon be called to mourn over an other, still dearer to him
There is an other subject I should write to you upon, because I feel as tho I was responsible for the happiness of her who was early given to my care. I have from her natural disposition had my fears least some fascinating youth not worthy of her, should engage her affections, and that it would be done with out, reposing that confidence in me, which would be her safeguard, and security. I once with some concern communicated my fear to you because knowing my opinion of the subject, concealment became too obvious. those fears are now terminated by a different conduct, and as much openess as I could desire. I am not less pleased with Mr Clark upon more intimate acquaintance—and from all I have seen, and heard of him, he is just such a character as I would have chosen to have united Susan too. his manners his good sense, and amiable Character, weigh much with us and have a pleasing influence upon her. his Steadiness will balance her volatile spirits, and his tenderness and strong attachment secure her affections—I want to bring you acquainted, we see him once; sometimes, twice a week, usually of a Sunday he returns on Monday morning to his ship. I know not of but one thing necessary to their future happiness. that is an essential, you will easily suppose that I mean property—for a Family cannot live upon the pay of an officer of his grade. He has some property beside, but I shall not consent to their being united, untill I see a prospect of their being placed above want. There are not wanting, warnings, in our own Family, of the folly of matrimonial engagements without the means of supporting a family I place this before her eyes. I do not find them unreasonable upon this subject, as yet. they are both young enough to wait, provided you can make them think so—he is going to Maryland soon; and will have more to say I presume when he returns—
My Love to Abbe—I lament her weak Eyes as it must deprive her the pleasure both of reading and writing. I should be very glad to welcome her & mr Johnson with my great grandson here this Fall. you must come to Susans Wedding whenever that shall take place when you know mr Clark, you will paige him. I inclose two Letters which you will be so good as to return to me when read—Louisa desires to be remembered to you & to mr Johnson. my best regards to him & to yourself—
the affection of your Mother
A Adams


Title: From John Adams Smith to John Quincy Adams, 29 July 1816
From: Smith, John Adams
To: Adams, John Quincy

					Dear Sir,
					29 July 1816—

				Mr Temple Franklin Applied to day for a Passport as an American Citizen to go to France. He stated to me that he was born in London, had lived in the United States for about six  years, but at different times—that he has not been in America for twenty years, & that he never was naturalized, but that he considered himself an American—It appears to me however that by the Laws of the United States, he cannot be considered as An American Citizen & entitled to a Passport as such—I could not therefore give him one credit unless I should receive your Instructions to do so. He states that should you be of this opinion he shall apply to the French Minister as a British subject; an answer by tomorrow Post will facilitate his application & much accommodate him—I am dear Sir / your very obedient

					J. A Smith


Title: From Thomas Boylston Adams to William Meredith, 30 July 1816
From: Adams, Thomas Boylston
To: Meredith, William

Dear Sir
Quincy July 30th 1816.

May I ask the favour of you to forward the enclosed letter?
The United States Bank will probably be organized, by the choice of Officers, in all September, and being somewhat interested, in right of other people, in the fashioning of this Institution, I should like to have your opinion of the qualifications of Mr: Jones, of your City, who is spoken of as a candidate for the President of the Bank, in competition with Mr: Lloyd—No improper use will be made of your confidential communication on this subject—I have some hopes of making a short visit to Philadelphia, if things can be brought to right ends—but I hardly  indulge the anticipation.
With my best regards to your wife & family I am, / truly Your’s

Thomas B Adams.


Title: From John Adams to John Adams, 31 July 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John

Dear John
Quincy July 31. 1816

I find upon my table this morning your favour of the 7. March; and I know not whether I have ever answered it.
I approve of your “eating and Sleeping and living together; of your playing Football, Crickett; running, climbinge, leaping Swimming, Skateing; and have no great Objection to your play at Marbles.
These are good for your Health: but what do you do for your Mind? The Mind is of more importance than the Body. Do you mind, the main Chance? And What is the main Chance? Is it money? No! Next to Virtue, it is knowledge. And what Advances do you make in knowledge?
I hear enough of your gaity; and hear it with pleasure: but I do not hear enough of your Studies.
I have been Somewhat disappointed in your Letters, and in those of your Brothers. I have not found the Patience, of thinking and writing which your opportunities must have furnished motives to excite.
As Mrs Sidons is to appear again upon the Stage, I hope you will See that Singular Theatrical Character, who transcends all that I have Seen in France Spain, Holland England and America. But remember that Theatrical Entertainments are not the Business of your Life. You have Duties to God your Neighbour and yourself, far about all Stage Causes or Effects.
In my last moments I had rather hear that you were a good Sailor before the mast, than that you were an Admiral Nelson or an Emperor Napoleon.
I Say to you, and to both your Brothers, / Sobrius esto.
John Adams


Title: From Susanna Boylston Adams Clark Treadway to Sarah Smith Adams, 31 July 1816
From: Treadway, Susanna Boylston Adams Clark
To: Adams, Sarah Smith

My Dear Mother
Quincy July 31st. 1816—

I have been expecting to hear from you every day, for this month past, but have not received a line. I have been in Boston, several weeks, and after my return was confined to the house with an inflammatory sore throat, or I should have written long before this.
Mr Clark leaves us tomorrow, for Washington, and Georgetown. his Sister and Uncle reside there, and he will be absent more than a month; this Gentleman is a rich old bachelor, and very much attached to Charles. After his father died, this uncle took the management of the estate into his own hands, as Mr C was then quite a child, and through negligence, the property was pretty much wasted away. he has always promised to make Charles his heir, his estate is worth about 50 thousand dollars, but Mr C disdains to feel dependent upon a promise and I beleive intends obtaining a furlough, and going to the East Indies to the purpose of bettering his fortune; poor fellow, he has seen enough of this worlds vicissitudes to enjoy some degree of happiness; but he is determined to use every exertion in his power to obtain a comfortable support: we have reasoned calmly upon the subject, and think it more prudent to wait a year, or perhaps two, than involve ourselves in difficulties and embarrassments. he knows that I have nothing, and we cannot live upon the pay of a Lieutenant. he has other property, but not sufficient. I do not require wealth, but it is no small expense to maintain a family and I have seen misery enough result from marrying upon nothing. My dear Mother, I wish you knew Mr Clark, you could not help loving him, he is so amiable and good. we talk a great deal of you, and have wished for you a thousand times.
Caroline will be here in September; it has been a great source of consolation to her since the death of her dear Father that she was able to be with him in his last moments, and bestow those attentions, which smooth the pillow of disease, while it gratifies our own feelings. she says you live delightfully and all look happy and contented. I am glad she saw you for it was a source of gratification to your Child, to hear from any one who had been with my dear Mother and Sister.
Grand Father and Grand Mother enjoy their health charmingly and have grown quite dissipated, for they were at two parties this week and are going to another tomorrow; every body appears so happy to see them out again that it is delightful to attend them. I remain at home, as my taste for parties has diminished, and Mr Clark is not fond of much company; he desired me, when I wrote to present his respectful and affectionate remembrance to you and my Brother and Sister, in which he is cordially united to your dutiful and attached Daughter
  S B Adams
P.S. Will you Say to Sister that our friend Lucy Greenleaf is engaged to her Cousin, Henry Davis, from Baltimore, a worthy, amiable, young man. the reading party diminishes, no one left but Louisa Marston, Eliza and mary Ann. the latter has just had a wen taken out of her throat, the operation was a painful one, but she is getting well fast.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Adelaide Hellen, 31 July 1816
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Hellen, Adelaide

					Ealing 31 July 1816.

				I have been very negligent my Dear Sister in not sooner answering your very affectionate Letter for which negligence I confess I have no substantial excuse to offer unless a little dissipation has Led to idleness I must trust to your indulgence for pardon.We had heard of the Death of Col. Smith through the medium of an American Newspaper some time before we received our Letters which only arrived yesterday and this morning He was one of the most pleasing and when I first knew him elegant man I ever saw and has I fear left few like him in America. I am glad to find that William and Caroline were both with him when he died. I have not had a line from Catherine since the birth of her son and some time before I cannot account for it as she promised to be an excellent correspondent I do not understand how William is going to live at the Valley I should think it a bad prospect for so young a man although I am not sorry he is to leave New York.I announced to Mrs. Adams in my last Letter that I was to dine with Mr. Sanders a Black Gentleman in a few days.We met a small party consisting of the Countess of Cork the Countess of Mexborough General Doyle Mr. Pen and a Mr. Powell The Countess of Cork is an old Lady of the most eccentric character who has taken Mr. Sanders under her protection and who appears fond of drawing him into the most ludicrous situations in which I believe she is not aware how much she participates the dinner was propere and in very good stile served on China and the Dessert which consisted of the choicest fruits and in a greater quantity than the table could contain with ices &ca. served on Cut Glass. Mr. Sanders did the honors of the Table assisted by Mr Pen Having been one of the highly distinguished invited to this Dinner it would not be fair in me to make any comments on the King of Hayti’s Ambassador and I will only say that he appeared occasionally to forget that he was become a Master and certainly waited on his Company with considerable attention High rank and fashionable society  contributes much to the towards polishing the manners and you would be more than diverted could you see this Black Gentleman familiarly whispering in the ears of Countess’s talking of his tendress and his being jealous and shaking hands with them Burrs ceremonie all this to you would appear a fable but it is nevertheless true and this Gentleman is at present one of the great objects of fashionable curiosity The conversation during dinner was chiefly maintained by General Doyle a man evidently in his own conceit possessing every qualification and on the whole pleasant he was just fit to play Lord Paramount in such an ill assorted party and afforded us many opportunities of laughing both with and at him. Of the Countess of Cork I can give you no correct idea she is a little managing bustling Woman full of every body’s business but her own always aping singularity no matter in what shape. rude in her manners and affectedly blunt but possessing a sort of dry coarse humour which passes for wit which sometimes causes a laugh but is frequently offensive Lady Mexborough appears to be a Gentlewoman. Somewhat of an egotist often thrusting herself and her good qualities on the tapis. when we could very well have dispensed with the topic on the whole she is a pleasant Woman and if she possessed neither brilliancy or solidy she was neither overbearing nor haughy and is one of those women I should like to meet again. There was one Lady I omitted to name who was an excellent contrast to Lady Cork this Lady was a Mrs. Crew the escense of whose wit consisted in drawling out at the end of every sentence when I was at Lord Crewe’s &c &c.Poor Mr. Pen is a most amiable and respectable man who is unfortunately afflicted in the most painful manner with that shocking disease St Vitus’s dance.On the Ladies retiring from table I discovered in the Drawing Room the Portrait of Mr. Sanders which had just been hung up in a splendid Gilt frame Dressed in a Spanish Dress with a scarlet Cloack with a point Lace ruff round the throat we were of course obliged to offer our compliments and extol the likeness. In the Evening Mr. S. had an at home I retired early not being well.Such my Dear Sister are the follies of the day This poor fellow was in a fair way of doing but I much fear that his real friends will desert him and a ride in his Landau with the Countess of Cork will prove a poor compensation I understand he is to be this evening at a large rout at the Countess’s in a fancy Dress. You will of course take care of my Letter on account of names.I wrote my mother all about the Princess Mary’s wedding It is that the Princess Charlotte has miscarried. There is much talk of a Divorce among the great people—which will probably be followed by another marriage—another farce! or another tragedy!I send you a small piece of the petticoat of my Court Dress which my Mother has expressed a desire to see The pattern enclosed is of the petticoat the draperies of the same materials the pattern of the embroidery being a simple spot fastend with Silver Tassels the train Blue satin trimmed to match they wear the hoops very small.With best love to all my friends and to your Children I am as ever most affectionately yours

					L. C. A.

					P.S. This is what is called Lama embroidery and is here all the rage.


Title: To John Adams from John Quincy Adams, 1 August 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, John

No. 51
My dear Sir.
Ealing 1. August 1816.

The multiplicity of business, and of things that consume more time than business, have in spite of all my efforts, broken down to such a degree the regularity of my private Correspondence that I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your favours of 20. and 28. March of 10. and 20. May—and of 16. and 25 June; every one of which contains matter, upon which if I had the time and the talents I could write you a volume in return.
You are alarmed at the restoration of the Jesuits—but whether it is that I was fascinated by my good old friend the father General, at St Petersburg, or that I have a firmer reliance upon the impossibility of reviving examinated impostures, I have not been able to work myself up into anything like fear of evil consequences at this Event—I had a diplomatic Colleague, in Russia—A man of excellent heart, of amiable temper, of amusing and sportive wit; a profound classical and mathematical scholar, an honest moralist, and a conscientious Roman Catholic Christian, who used to maintain to me with the most diverting seriousness, and from the deepest conviction of his Soul, that father Malbranche was the only metaphysician, and that Locke, was the veriest pestilence of modern times—Locke was the father of the Encyclopedists—Locke was the founder of the French Revolution, and of all its horrors—I understand that there is a learned Theban, laying it down to the People of France in the Moniteur, that all the Miseries of mankind in the present age, are imputable to the pretended reformation of Luther—And at Madrid, a professor of Mathematics has commenced a course of Lectures by announcing to his pupils that he shall omit all the higher branches of the Science, because it has been proved by experience that they lead to atheism—But if Julian—the Genius, the Conqueror, the Philosopher, the Master of the World, did but kick against the Pricks, when he undertook to restore the magnificent mythology of the Greeks, is it conceivable that the driveling dotards of this age can bring back the monkeries and mummeries of the twelfth Century? Oh no!—Europe is tyrannized not by Priests, but by soldiers—It is overshadowed by a Military despotism—Let the bayonets be taken away, and there will be no danger of the Jesuits—
A friend of mine has sent me a large parcel of Boston Newspapers, mostly of the last days of June—By them and by other accounts, I learn that Governor Brooks’s speech has not given satisfaction, to those who patronized his election—It is however such as I should have expected from the man before he was their Candidate. His total silence upon the merits of his predecessor is eloquence of the best kind—I always entertained a very respectful opinion of the character of Genl: Brooks, but when I found him selected as the Candidate of the Junto-men, I could not avoid the suspicion, that he had condescended or would condescend to some compromise of principle, which could not fail to sink him in my estimation—He has steered clear of this rock in his speech—But he has a year of painful probation to go through; and with a prospect almost certain of being deserted by his supporters if he maintains his own independence—Since the Peace it has indeed been evidently the great struggle of the faction still calling themselves federalists, not, as during the War to grasp or destroy the national Government, but merely to maintain their own ascendancy or the States where they had attained it—They have however failed even of that, in Vermont, New-Hampshire and New-York—In Massachusetts, Connecticut and Maryland their majorities have dwindled almost into nothing—Should no serious national misfortune befall us, I anticipate their complete overthrow in another year—It is hinted to me that the separation of the District of Maine, will prolong their dominion perhaps a year or two more in the remnant of old Massachusetts; but as the new State will immediately be redeemed from their misgovernment, it will weaken them in the national Councils, and scatter their ranks nearly as much as if they were reduced to a minority in the whole Commonwealth.
If I were merely a man of Massachusetts, I should deeply lament this dismemberment of my native State—But the longer I live, the stronger I find my national feelings grow upon me; and the less of my affections are compassed by partial localities—My system of politics more and more inclines to strengthen the Union, and its Government—It is directly the reverse of that professed by Mr John Randolph of relying principally upon the State Governments—The effort of every one of the State Governments would be to sway the whole Union, for its own local advantage. The doctrine is therefore politic enough for a Citizen of the most powerful State in the Union: but it is good for nothing for the weaker States, & pernicious for the whole—But it is the contemplation of our external Relations, that makes me specially anxious to strengthen our National Government—The conduct and issue of the late War has undoubtedly raised our national character in the consideration of the world—But we ought also to be aware that it has multiplied and embittered our Enemies—This Nation is far more inveterate against us than it ever was before—All the restored Governments of Europe are deeply hostile to us—The Royalists every where detest and despise us as Republicans—All the victims and final vanquishers of the French Revolution abhor us as aiders and abetters of the French during their career of Triumph—Wherever British influence extends it is busy to blacken us in every possible manner—In Spain, the popular feeling is almost as keen against us as in England—Emperors, Kings, Princes, Priests, all the privileged Orders, all the Establishments, all the votaries of legitimacy, eye us with the most rancorous hatred—Among the crowned heads, the only friend we had was the Emperor Alexander, and his friendship has I am afraid been more than cooled—How long it will be possible for us to preserve Peace with all Europe, it is impossible to foresee—Of this I am sure, that we cannot be too well or too quickly prepared for a new conflict to support our rights, and our interests—The tranquility of Europe is precarious, it is liable to many sudden changes, and great convulsions; but there is none in probable prospect, which would give us more security than we now enjoy against the bursting of another storm upon ourselves—I can never join, with my voice in the toast, which I see in the Papers, attributed to one of our gallant naval commanders—I cannot ask of Heaven success, even for my Country, in a Cause where she should be in the wrong—Fiat  Justitia, pereat Coelum—My toast would be, may our Country be always successful—but whether successful or otherwise, always right—I disclaim as unsound all patriotism incompatible with the principles of eternal Justice—But the truth is that the American Union, while united may be certain of success in every rightful cause, and may if it pleases never have any but a rightful cause to maintain—They are at this moment the strongest Nation upon the globe, for every purpose of Justice—May they be just to secure the favour of Heaven; and wise, to make a proper application of their strength. May they be armed in thunder for the defence of Right, and self-shackled in eternal impotence for the support of Wrong.
We have been much affected by the intelligence of the decease of Coll: Smith; following in such quick succession upon that of his two brothers—It has severely distressed his Son, in whom I have an industrious, attentive and faithful assistant—He had been in some measure prepared for the Event, by the accounts he had previously received—The views of Mr Dexter’s death came upon us sudden and unexpected. we first heard of it on the 5th. of June—I had written him a long Letter on the 14th. of April, in answer to one that I had received from him by Captain Stuart—It must have arrived in America after his departure; and I hope will not fall into improper hands.
I shall write as soon as possible to my dear Mother—We are all in good health—only, as I have been troubled with six weeks of Holidays, my three boys are now beginning to complain of a relapse into the School head-ache—They write by this opportunity for themselves.
I remain ever dutifully your affectionate Son

A.


Title: From John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 4 August 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

My every dear Sir
Quincy August 04th. fourth 1816

This Letter is to be honoured by the Reverend Samuel Cooper Thatcher, the Son of The Reverend Dr Peter Thatcher of Brattle Street and the Grandson of Oxenbridge Thatcher Esqr Barister at Law One of the most intimate confidential and beloved Friends I ever had one of the four first rate Lawyers, Gridley, Pratt, Otis and Thatcher who recommended me to the Court in Boston in 1758 when I was Sworn in.
I needed not to have mentioned these Names. You knew the Gentleman; amiable, Sensible, learned, but I fear, labouring under a consumption, like those which consumed his Father and his Grandfather. It seems is if Genius could not live in this Climate. Clark, Belknap, Buckminster, Emmerson, Carey &c. &c &c where are they!
I will add one Circumstance. I personally knew and have conversed with the great Grandfather of this Gentleman, who had Satt in the Legislature, with your Great Grandfather Col. J. Q. and knew his History and Character better than you or I do.
I will add one more Circumstance. He is descended from that Thatcher whom Archbishop Laud Prosecuted in the Star-Chamber, as you may find in the State Tryals.
Somewhat of that “Old Nonconformist Spirit,” which Laud took notice “of” as I once heard my Master Gridley Say, remains in the Family to this day. When the Name of Thatcher is forgotten in this Country those of Winthrop, Shepard, Norton Winslow, and Hambden ought to be obliterated. Wh I forget the Names of Gridley, Pratt Otis and Thatcher may my Sight loose the Light and fingers cease to feel.
If I had the fertile Genius, the exuberant genus Imagination the fluent rolling Stream of Eloquence, the bright Eyes and Steady hand of your Mother; my Inclination is good to write you as long and as many Letters as She does. But these Blessings are denied to

A.


Title: From John Adams to George Washington Adams, 6 August 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, George Washington

George
Quincy Aug. 6. 1816

I desire to know, which of the Characters in the Andrian you was appointed to represent at the Exhibition: and whether your performance was to your own Satisfaction of that of any body else?
The Six Plays of Terrence are Valuable
1. For the Purity Simplicity, Perspicuity, Precision and Concision of the Style, that is the Latinity.
2. For the Information they contain, of the Laws, Customs and Manners of Athens
3. For the Maxims and Proverbs, which are now and have been for 2000 Years common place Expressions of all civilized Nations.
The foregoing Extracts contain all that is worth remembering in the Andrian. The Play exhibits, one continued Tissue of Intrigues of Avarice, Ambition and Love. There is no Confidence between Fathers and Sons, Masters and Servants. All is Intrigue Deceit, Dissimulation and Simulation. There is no honour but between Rakes and their Girls.Do you wonder at the Vehemence of Jesus and Paul against Whore mongers?
There are no great Characters in Terrence. No Emperors Kings, Sages, Phylosophers, Heroes General Admirals &c. All is private Life. All is Fornication. Tis remarkable, there is no Adultery. Even Athenians would not Suffer Such an Atrocity to be brought up on the Stage!
Young Man! Rejoice in thy Strength, and let thine heart cheer the. But remember, and consider what is to be the Consequence.
I have great doubts Whether Terrences Plays are proper for the Instruction of Youth; Unless it be for those in whose Mouths Water will not melt. And how few are these?
Think George! think! You cannot have many more Admonitions from
A.


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to John Quincy Adams, 7 August 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, John Quincy

					My dear Son
					Quincy August 7th—1816

				I make it a rule to begin my Letters by an acknowledgment of those which I have received from you, when any such there are. I have now the pleasure to notice yours of june the 6th No 89—I do this for two reasons—1st because every correspondent likes to know, that their Letters, are received, and 2ly that they are worthy notice, and there is not any Subject, apparently trivial in itself, but like a skilfull alchymist, you can make, of intrinsick value, either by the playfullness of your fancy, or by good humourd Satire, which tho it partakes of the caustic; leaves not a scar behind.“Thus in smooth oil, the Raisor best is whetSo wit is by politeness, sharpest Set”ou notice Letters received, for Mrs A, and for George—but make not any mention of any for yourself. I think I have never omitted writing to you, when I have written to others—I have read the works of Scott, which you mention, his writings both in prose, and verse, are very popular in America. I like to read his verse, but consider it like the Lama trimming of the Ladies dresses, more ornamental than Solid, whilst Milton, Pope, and Thompson, are Sterling Bullion and have never been Rivaled by any of their Successors.This Letter Will be deliverd to you by an other sick Clergyman, who thinks a sea Voyage may restore a constitution, already I fear undermined by that fatal disease Consumption—The Rev’d S C Thatcher, asks for a Letter to you. he is too well known to you, to need an introduction, but he may stand in need of some kind attentions, which your respect for his Character, and his feeble State of health, will lend you readily to affordIt has become a general opinion, that the Clergymen of the present day, are much more fragile, delicate and short lived, than formerly. those who reside in cities may be so. a Sedantry Life is not favourable to Health. I do not find however so great a difference as is imagined—for in looking into, Mathers Magnalia, I find three of my Ancestors, by the Name of Shepard quite as short lived. the first was settled at Cambridge and died at 43 the second Thomas Shepard was settled at Charlstown and died at the same Age. the third the Grandson of the first was Settled at Rowly—and died at the Age of 26—my Grandfather Quincys Mother was a daughter of this Second Thomas Shepard who was Setled at Charlstown, where he My Grandfather was born—So much for Ancestry. If we have not any tittles of Nobility, to adorn our Escutcheons—we have the exemplary piety and virtues of our Ancestors to Stimulate us, to emulate their ExcellenceI am pleased to learn by your late Letters that wedded Love, and honorable matrimony has become so fashionable amongst the Royal personages—I cannot but feel a sympathetic pleasure when I hear of a marriage of affection, known and realizd by any of them—Born with like passions, to others—and obliged to Sacrifice to National agrandizement and interest, the Sweetest ingredient in the cup of Life, and to take to their Bosoms, perhaps the Reluctant & loathing partner, a Stranger Bethrothed to them—how is it possible, that Love, and affection Should follow? and who can wonder, if youth and opportunity, should seek its own gratification?When I was in England, thirty years since, the Duke of Gloucester and princess Mary were about ten years old. Mary promised then to be very handsome. Cowper makes an observation in one of his Letter to a Friend, the truth of which I have frequently experienced. “It costs me not much difficulty to suppose, that my Friends who were already grown old, when I saw them last, are old still, but it costs me a good deal sometimes to think of those who were at that time young, as being older than they were, not having been an Eye witness of the change which time has made in them.”Thus my dear Son, altho you left your parents Aged, if they Live to see you return, you will read in their decayed visages, and see in their feeble Limbs, the ravages of Time. yet has this universal destroyer spaired to us, the sense of hearing; which I esteem a great blessing, nor has he extinguished our Sight, tho his claws have impaired it—we both of us enjoy Society. your Father has related to you, some of our excursions, but he has not told you of that of yesterday, which was nothing less, than joining a party at the Hotell at Neponset Bridge. this Hotell, built since you went abroad, and of which your Sons can give you some account, is in a situation to command a Beautifull Prospect of the Harbour, the Islands, and the adjacent Country. it is highly picturesque and delightfull at Sunset, we sat down 96 of us in Number, to a table Spread with a diversity of good things, coffe Tea, fruits and pastry cakes of various kind, and poultry for those who liked—we all partook with moderation, and at Nine oclock, returnd to our own habitations by the Light of Bright Cynthia, much gratified by our excursion—think you, there is not more pleasure in such a Rural festival, than in Lords Mayors shows, Royal Nuptials, and Nuptial drawing Rooms? yet not one of our society, who would not, have gladly made the exchange, for the honour and Novelty of the such a scene—even I who have had, some experience, of the “Toils which wait on greatness” should have liked to have been an unseen Spectator—I shall hope to hear from the Boys in their vacation. I want to know how George acquitted himself—and which of the Characters was his part? I have read the play. the taste and manners of the Age must be taken into consideration, in which they were written tho Elegance and purity of the language, may render them fit models for the imitation of classick Scholars, but to the manners and morals I must except.It is quite a calm in the political world commerce however does not flourish, as it has done in times past, altho we have neither Embargoes, Non intercourse, no war to complain of.I have acknowledged receiving the Review. Mr Bigelow has had Letters from us, now near a month old—they are articles which never grow better for keeping—I do prize youth in a Letter. the figures of which; always first attract our attentionwe have had an uncommon cold Season, scarcely more than three days through the whole Summer when a fire has not been agreable. our Indian corn will universally fail, our grass, not more than half a crop—our English Grain, promises better. We had Frosts in july. can Astronomers tell us whether the spots upon the Sun so much the present subject of investigation, are the cause of this uncommon cold—?my paper reminds me that it will contain no more than the / assured Love and affection of Your Mother

					A—


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams, 8 August 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson

					my dear Daughter
					Quincy August 8th 1816

				I have received your kind Letter of June the 7th, tho not by Mrs Perkins, for she has not yet arrived—I thank you for the information which it afforded me. your Letters are a treat from which I derive pleasure uncloyed—I can return you only the passing scenes of domestic and rural Life, interesting only for their connection with the Family Circle.—Two of your Neices, and my Granddaughters, Caroline and Abbe, whom you left Children, have since become wives, and Matrons, each having a child, and are happily married. The third, Susan, who has been more immediatly my charge is engaged to a Leiut. Clark, belonging to the Navy. he is a very estimable young Man, and stands high with his commander, but in a time of peace, promotions are slow, and his paternal property small, having lost his Father very early in Life, who was a Lawyer and a planter in Maryland.—The young Gentleman has so recommended himself by his modest discreet behaviour, and his Character, as an officer and a Gentleman, is so fully attested, by all who know him, for his bravery, and good conduct, and his attachment has appeard so strong, and fervent, that I have not had it in my heart, to discourage his addresses, because I thought he did not possess sufficient property, to warrent an immediate union. he has enterprize, and ambition, and youth to stimulate his exertionsI wish I could say any thing comforting to you, of the situation of one, who all his Life appears, to have been unfortunate.—The property which fell to his Father, from his uncle, his Father by will, gave to him, and this would have afforded him a handsome mantainance, if it could have been free, from encumbrance. it is liable to the debts of the Col. to what amount they were I know not. Mr S and his Family have removed to the Valley your sister, I presume will write you more fully your Letter addrest to mrs Hellen I sent immediatly to her. I have not since heard from her. I presume she is very comfortable in her circumstancesI must tell you of an other Family connection like to take place between Lucy Greenleaf, and a Son of Judge Daws of Boston. he is a merchant Settled in Baltimore—a Match well pleasing to both Families—This while some of us are passing off the Stage; others are comeing on to take our places—Longevity is the lot of so few, and is so seldom renderd comfortable by the association of good health, and Spirits, that the Psalmist describes it, as days in which there are no pleasures but thanks to a kind providence, which has followd me, with goodness and mercy all the days of my Life, in none of which I can say, that I had not some pleasure To live comfortably while we do Live, is every thing which can be wished for, untill the curtain drops; that hangs between Time & Eternity—I am rejoiced to learn by your Letter that you enjoy so much health, and are increaseing in size—I think it must be a great advantage to you. you ought to keep pace with your Husband, who writes me, that he also, obtains weight—I hope soon to hear from the Boys—and to learn that they Study hard without injury to their health.  youth is the only Age to lay up a Store for future use. it is the food of riper years, and the Nourishment of old Age, when new acquisitions are Slowly made, and soon evaporate—my Love to them they are very near the Heart, of their, and your affectionate / Mother

					A A—


Title: From John Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 10 August 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Charles Francis

Dear Charles.
post 10 Aug. 1816

I see little in this Play but the Manners of the Atheanians and The Naivete et Nettite du Style. The Miseries of Domestick Life; when all Confidence is wanting: between Parents and Children Masters and Servants, Friends and Neighbours, Husbands and Wives, Lovers and Mistresses; are held Up to View in a Mirror. Such Morals are surely no better than those of London or Boston, Paris or New York.
A.


Title: From John Adams to John Adams, 10 August 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John

My dear John
Quincy Aug. 10. 1816

I culled a Few Flowers for George from The Andrian. I have done the Same for you here from the Step Mother, and will do the Like Soon for Charles. I Sent Georges by Mr Thatcher. A.
John! Your Father and your Grandfather can attest upon Oath to a Similar Voyage in 1778.

John! The Case of the Step Mother here is the Case of your Grandfather! Meditate a little upon it.
A.


Title: From John Adams to Charles Francis Adams, 10 August 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Charles Francis

My dear Charles!
post 10 Aug. 1816

Do you See, in these Plays of Terence, which are the Translations from Menander, the Character of the Athenians? Are not the Slaves Superior Beings to the Citizens? Every Smart Expression; every brilliant Image, every Moral Sentiment is in the Mouth of a Slave.
To be Sure, however, Masters and Slaves are nearly on a Level, in Principles of Conduct.
A.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 12 August 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

				N. 92
					My dear Mother.
					Ealing 12. August 1816.

				I have received Letters from you, of 22. March, 7. April, 9. and 20 May, and 29. and 30 June. every one of which, had it been possible, I would have answered by a long Letter—But even now, I can do little more than express my joy at perceiving the recovery of your health and Spirits, in the cheerfulness and gaiety returning to your Style. I had flattered myself that after the rising of Parliament which was on the 3d: of July we should have had for some Months no other calls to the Metropolis than those of my business—But the Town Season, has been protracted to this day, which being the Prince Regent’s Birth-day, is to be celebrated by an Evening Party to be given by the Queen at Buckingham House—I hope you will have an account of it from your usual Chronicler, to whom all the Reports upon the National Affairs of this importance are given in charge. I am sorry to say that at the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester she took a cough which is yet very troublesome.—The Lord Mayor invited me last week to a dinner at the Mansion House, to meet the Duke of Wellington—It was a small party of less than forty persons—I had seen the Duke several times before; but had then the first opportunity of personally observing him—He is to be at the Queen’s party this Evening, and to-morrow morning takes his departure and returns to France.There is little or nothing talked of here, but the distresses of the country and the badness of the Seasons—Of the distress, you will hear more in future—The Season is unparalleled—At least I never knew the like—Not a day, when you could bear a window open—Not a Night when you could comfortably spare the second Blanket. Rains, without intermission of a day—St: Swithun promises still to keep his word for this year—The Harvests it is said will nevertheless be generally good—Of this, I begin however to doubt.I shall send by the first opportunity to my father the newly issued numbers of the Edinburgh and Quarterly Reviews.—Our boys have at last returned to School.Ever affectionately yours

					A.


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to Harriet Welsh, 16 August 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Welsh, Harriet

					Dear Harriet
					Quincy August 16th 1816

				I yesterday thursday the 15 received your communications of the 9th. you see it was not possible to forward the Letters inclosed by the mail on Wednesday—I have prepared them for the morrow—I thank you for permission to read C Letter. it did as well as if written to me. I inclose you one from C to you—I had not the same licence from her, but I received a Letter from her of the 8th in which she writes me that she had just received two from John, with an account of his presentation to the Prince Regent & to the Queen and so forth—to Lord & Lady Castleragh, that the Lady gave him an invitation to visit her, which he had done—all of which perhaps C has already written you—so that it is a twice told tale—but how could I know without she had let me peepe into her Letter?—now I could Scrible away to you half an hour, as I do not propose to Coppy—and tell you many unimportant things, one of which is that a discovery is made almost as important as the Spots in the Sun—of what Lama is, nothing less than a rich Lace interwoven with real Silver & gold thread, in flowers festoons &c of about one Inch width, at the moderate price of 5 Guineys pr yd calculate what a court dress must cost? the next Subject of interest is, that her Royall Highness the Princess Charlot is much indisposed with a cold and fever. the prince Regent announces the consent of himself & Family to the marriage of the duke of Glouscester with the princess Mary; his Majestys fourth daughter—Mrs Jordon the mistress of the duke of Clarence is dead—She resided not far from Ealing in great poverty and want, much to his Highnesses disgrace—if any thing could disgrace the dissolute Rakes of that Family—Mr A You will see by the papers—was an invited Guest with the rest of the foreign ministers to celebrate the anniversary dinner of the society of Friends of Foreigners in distress. the Duke of Ghent took the chair, present the Nobility of the Land. there is a very long account of it in the English Papers; but what to me is a subject of Speculation that J Q A, without tittle—without Nobility—without adequate appointments, should be selected to make a speech to that August assembly—the duke of Ghent proposed as a Toast, The ttes of the Foreign ministers present, when the paper states that “His Excellency J Q Adams the American minister addressed the company in a neat & Eloquent Speech in which he took occasion, most forcibly to point out the incomparable merit of the institution, its inestimable value to the world at large and its imperative claim upon the country of every individual of what ever Nation, who had at Heart the happiness of his fellow-beings”Mr A himself in his Letter only mentions having attended such a meeting—George has had a part in one of Terences plays to deliver at his academy in Lattin Charles a part in French, and George a French performance—mr A. in his Letter to me of 9 June says—“from the Foreign Ministers I have received every personal attention that I could pretend to, and more than can be desired by one, who for reasons well known to You, cannot Stand with them upon the equal footing of reciprocal hospitality—If I cannot join in the chorus of the conviviual Song, ‘and let him spread the Table tomorrow’ I would fain not be listening to it, at the table of another—an american mission abroad, is a perpetual lesson of humility,—it fixes a man in the condition of a parisite; and then tells him to maintain his self respect and the consideration of his Country”—mr A has sent me Scotts Antiquary—I had it but last Evening 3  volms—I have read Pauls Letters I like them better than any other of Scotts works. You learn more of the Character of the man from them—I have held out very well yet, and to compleat my trials I walkt to mr B. to see mrs Smith & back again. I however feel a languid day when it comes—I must bid you adieu or I shall not get ready for Caroline. I must write to her. mr Clark is not yet gone. he has been obliged to stay to attend the repairs of the Congress I fear he will be absent at the time C is here. remember Love &c to all Friends at the East—Yours affec’ly

					A—

					your Mother I hear is better I was for sending for you immediatly I requested mr C to call & write me word how she was, which he did, and found her able to walk out. the week before she kept chamber


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 16 August 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

				93.
					My dear Mother,
					Ealing 16. August 1816.

				The receipt of all your Letters to that of 30. June has been acknowledged. To answer them, I must have time to think—a privilege which I so seldom enjoy that I cannot even anticipate when I may be indulged with it—Mr Tuckerman brought your last Letter—I saw him and his Lady once. But they were only three or four days in London, and are gone upon a tour into the Country. Mr Tuckerman says his health has been much restored by the Voyage.The Queen’s Evening Party on the Prince Regent’s Birth–day closed the fashionable assemblies for the Season. We have avoided them as constantly as we could without impropriety—Yet they have for the last six Months consumed a large portion of my time, and broken in upon the regularity of my life—You ask the character of the Princess Charlotte—But I have seen her only twice, and then with little opportunity to observe her character—She has been confined to her house by indisposition most of the time since her marriage—has not appeared at Court since the Drawing-Room held on that occasion, and is said to have met with an unpropitious accident—But as to what the French call the On dits, about her, or any of the royal family, I make it a rule never to believe any of them—It is fashionable to talk about them—fashionable to tell strange Stories about them; and the stranger the Story, the more fashionable, because it gives the person telling it the air of being a knowing one; initiated in all the mysteries of high life—The lies, therefore, concerning them are innumerable. The truths excessively few—The Princess Charlotte is popular, because she is presumptive heiress to the throne, because she is young, because she is thought to have been harshly treated, and because she has given some indications of sense and Spirit—But she and her husband set out upon the principle of having nothing to do with public affairs. That may be politic—The question is how they spend their time—Elizabeth lost no time while she was living in the shade, and precarious safety—The Princess Charlotte may think she must now be insignificant—But if she thinks she must be idle, she will never restore the golden days of good Queen Bess. All well—Ever affectionately your’s

					A.


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 24 August 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

				N. 94.
					My dear Mother.
					Ealing 24. August 1816.

				I shall send you by the earliest opportunity the newly published numbers of the Edinburgh and Quarterly Reviews; but unless you read Cobbett’s New-York Register, you will not have the key to the secret History of those works—There are now three very distinct parties in this Country—Tories, or the Ministerial party—Whigs—and Reformers—The Quarterly Review is the Literary instrument of the first—The Edinburgh Review of the Second—and Cobbett’s Register of the third—This party, still deeply depressed, and having no leader but Sir Francis Burdett, who seems at this moment to shrink from the Post, will however, if Events should continue to follow their present impulse, rise upon the ruins of both the others—The taxes are breaking the back of the Nation. The Revenue itself has begun to shew symptoms of decay—They are not yet unequivocal, but if they continue and increase, the funding system cannot stand the shock that will soon ensue. The Nation must compound with its Creditors—The Tories still hold out stoutly against this, and struggle for further taxation. The whigs faintly resist the idea of a national bankruptcy, and vaguely talk of œconomy, retrenchment, reduced establishments, and the necessity of a general sacrifice, to bear equally upon the funds and the lands. The reformers alone speak out boldly, that the interest of the debt must be reduced—But then they add that the Sinecures, Pensions and Rotten Boroughs must go too—Of the three parties the whigs are now the weakest. Their principles give them no plausible remedy for the evils of the day—They offer nothing but palliatives. The reformers call aloud for the knife—The Patient shudders at the thought of the Operation, but as the mortification spreads and approaches the vital parts, he begins to feel that the alternative is life. You will see the Resolutions, passed unanimously last Wednesday, by the People of the City of London—neither whigs nor Tories, dared to raise their voices at that meeting. A Petition to the Regent was voted which it is well known he will not receive—But if similar meetings take place in other parts of the Country, they will tend at once to manifest and to increase the strength of the Reformers—There will probably be serious occurrences at the next Session of Parliament. I have no time to enlarge—We are well, and over faithfully your’s

					A.


Title: From John Adams to John Adams Smith, 25 August 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Smith, John Adams

Dear Sir
Quincy August 25th. 1816

I thank you for your favor of 26 June. Your Phylanthropic sentiments are very agreeable to me: but remember they are no more than Terinus “Homo Sum ” and that was only a Translation from the still more ancient Greek of Menander. The English and American Republicans must not flatter themselves that they have discovered any thing new. All their “Liberty Equality and Fraternity” is summarily comprehended, in, “Do as you would be done by,” and we know where to find that.
Republicanism and Orthodoxy, Macchiavilianism and Jesuitism are four learned words, or tecknical expressions, the meaning of which, in Sixty five years of hard study, I have never been able to comprehend. Be upon your guard, John, against these insidious words of Party, Faction Hypocricy, Perfidy and Villany.
Your Patron, Governor Tompkins is in a fair way to be a greater Man, than ever, and may have it in his power to protect you; when the transcendant Talents, Services, Sacrifices and Sufferings of your Uncle, can be of no use to you; when all the services of your Father and Grandfather will be forgotten. Sic transit Gloria. John! depend upon nothing but your own Prudence, Temperance Fortitude and Justice, under Heaven.
I am no advocate of Buonaparte, John; He was like all other Conquerors, from Alexander and Cæsar, Mahomet and Charlemaigne: and indeed from others more ancient for “Erant Heroes, ante Agamemnona multi.” But whoever expects to receive Liberty, Equality and Fraternity from Hero’s will find himself mistaken.
Observe! think! weigh! Unless you  mean to deliver yourself blindfold to Enthusiasm and Party.
I must conclude with a more tender subject; your Father is no more. I am too seriously  and deeply affect with this melancholly event to write upon it, more than this, that you ought to study his Biography, to imitate the goodness of his heart, his Gentlemanly manners: but to avoid his Errors.
I am cordially
A.


Title: From John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 26 August 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

My ever dear Sir
Quincy August 26. 1816

Your No. 50. 29th. May is before me. You wisely persevere in your habitual accuracy, and I hope will compell your Sons to follow your Example. I have been So long incapable of Observing my rules that I know not the number of this Letter, or any other that I have written for many Years. I regret this Negligence I repent of it; and wish my Posterity, to follow Your Example and avoid mine. Yours is the most perfect Example of the Kind that I have ever known and cannot be too highly esteemed.
I have never had a doubt, that the question relating to the Fisheries, had been largely discussed between you and the British Government: nor had I ever a Suspicion that the American World or any other World; would ever be informed of that discussion till long after your head and mine Should be layed in the Grave.
I flatter myself, however, that you have been fortunate in the translation of this Controversy to Washington—There, it will be procrastinated till the approaching Election is over; perhaps till another War.
You preach peace, and you are right. God and Man will approve your doctrine, your Exhortation, your Instruction, your Admonition. If all is overuled, it will not be your fault.
Our Countrymen are more proud than they have reason to be of the revolutionary War and of the late War. 8,000,000, of People instead of Five Frigates, ought to have had at the commencement of the late War, Fifty Ships of the Line.
Your Maxim “An efficient revenue and a growing Navy are the only Stable Pillars of Peace” is infallible. But how can an efficient Revenue ever exist with a Million of Knavish Banks.?
The People of U.S. are the most conceited People that ever existed on this Globe. The most proud vain, ambitious, Suspicious, jealous, embragious, and envious and I am as guilty as any of them. Have a care of Them.! They remind me of Helvetius. This Philosopher was promenading with a Brother Philosopher, on the Bulvards. The People were dancing and Skipping, laughing and Singing in every direction. “These People Are happy” Said the Brother. “Oh! No!” Said Helvetius. “See how civil they are to you, and me, to one another, and to every Body. If they were happy they would be insolent”! If ever a People had this Proof of Happiness, it is the People of U.S. We cannot bear Prosperity. Calamity alone and extream distress, will ever bring forth the real Character of this Nation. Forreign War can never do it. Nothing Short of foreign War, and civil War at once, will ever effect it. And then you may depend upon it they will follow a Bonaparte or Several Bonapartes rather than Jeffersons Madisons, John or John Quincy Adams’s. Hamiltons and Burrs will be preferred to Hancocks and Washingtons.
As you live: Your Father and Mother & Louisa dined last Tuesday in Boston with Judge Otis in the neatest Company imaginable; none but Otis’s, Lymans Thorndykes, Menots Boardmans and Fosters, except Tudor and Mason. I never before knew Mrs Otis. She has good Understanding. I have Seldom if ever passed a more Sociable day. Extert all your Witts to draw Inferences from this Phænomenon. Do you ascribe it to the Eclipse of 1806, to the Comet or to the Spots in the Sun?
A.


Title: From Abigail Smith Adams to John Quincy Adams, 27 August 1816
From: Adams, Abigail Smith
To: Adams, John Quincy

					my dear Son
					Quincy August 27th 1816

				I yesterday received some Letters from the Children dated 26 June. as I had some weeks before received my June Letter from you, I had not any right to expect an other of the Same Month, and altho’ as Shakespeare says, “my appetite grows on what it feeds on” I must own I am avaricious in this respect.In this still calm, and political pause I must entertain you with domestic occurrences, one of which is a Family visit, which we received a fortnight since, from mr W Foster, your old Neighbour, (who lost his Lady, about two months since,) accompanied by mrs A otis and daughter. mr H G otis’ Lady and daughter and son, who all came in a Body to take tea with us. This visit has been long in contemplation; mrs A otis was commissioned to inquire, if your Father would like to receive the visit? to which a candid reply was given, that he should be pleased to receive it—whether the Hartford millstone hung so heavy that it could not be thrown off, or for what other reason I can not say. the visit was never accomplished untill a fortnight since, when we past a very pleasant and social afternoon together. upon taking leave mr otis in his very civil and polite manner, asked it as a favour that I would dine with him the next week? I replied, that I had long declined all invitations to dinner, as well as all public company, upon which he said it should be only a Family party. I then refered him to your Father who promptly accepted his  invitation—accordingly when the day came, we went, and were most kindly and cordially received by all the assembled families mr Mason mr Tudor, were considerd as former appendages to us, and were a part of the company—all appeard pleased and mutually gratified—I know not when I have past a pleasanter day, and I could not but regret the hour of seperation. all this past off very well. I never expected to hear more of it, but you cannot imagine what a sensation it has created in the Capital. a Gentleman from Town yesterday informd me, that it was a subject of speculation in the public offices. whether the stocks have risen or fallen in concequence, I do not pretend to say, but the wise ones cannot comprehend the phenomenon—some whisper it was to obtain a recommendation for a foreign Mission.—now I do not beleive in any such motive I ascribe it to the benevolent desire of extinguishing all party Spirit, and to a desire of renewing former Friendship, and Family intimacy—as such I received it, and in the same Spirit, returnd it—your Father, and I have Lived to an Age, to be sought for as Curiosity’s—accordingly we have more strangers to visit us, and more company, than for years past. having the sense of hearing so well preserved to us, we can enjoy society, which at our advanced period, I consider a great Blessing, and our sight, altho much impaired, is still such, that we can read. altho as mr Jefferson expresses it, “Memory is constantly enlarging its frightfull blank, and parting with all we have ever seen and known, & reconciles us to the period, when it is reasonable we should drop off, and make room for another growth. when we have lived our Generation out, we should not wish to encroach on another. he adds (what I feel and have seen, and what I deprecate), of all humane contemplations, the most abhorrent is body without mind” what ever Humiliation is destined for us in this respect, is submitted to a higher power  to that Being, whose inspiration has given us understanding—I thank you for Pauls Letters. I have been more pleased with them than with any of his other writings—he is seen in his amiable domestic Character, full of the milk of Humane kindness, tho describing the bloody Feilds of Battle; and bringing his reader to the very spot with him—The Election of President is canvessing, not with wrath, or animosity or abuse that I have seen. the pamphlet, entitled Exposition of the motives for opposing the nomination of mr Monroe as President of the United States, I have not seen but the reply to it I have, by a Partizen of mr Monroes no doubt. he uses many arguments which would not bear the test if there was any popular candidate to contest with him. I presume by the reply, you were mentiond as one of the candidates this writer, in reply answer, says mr Adams is absent, and said to be well pleased with his situation. of course he cannot be a candidate. if I had any thing to say against him, it would be at present withheld—on the Rule of de absentibus, as well as mortius nil nisi bonum—one remark however I will make, which is, that I am sure, if mr Adams was here, and could do so that he would not oppose Col Monroe—he would candidly confess, that his Services and experience, (which I allow to be respectable, as are his talents) ought not to be put in competition with Col Monroe’s, “True  prophet”—I Subscribe to that. they ought not to be brought into competition. I know whose would kick the Beam. we will thank the writer however for his candour—and I may add with great Sincerity, that however well calculated I deem J Q A, for that Station, I do not covet it for him at present, and mr Monroe may stand unrivaled—I wish however that they would make his present arduous embassy more respectable and comfortable to him.yesterday mr and Mrs Tarbel call’d to see us, well and in good Spirits—and happy in having safely returnd to their Native Land, more pleased with it than ever—they give us a pleasing account of the children. I do not beleive that my own sons were dearer to me, than my Grandsons, or that I felt more solicitious for there reputation may they all prove worthy, and be blessings, so prays Your Mother

					A A


Title: From John Quincy Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 30 August 1816
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

				N 95.

					Ealing 30 August 1816.

				George says that his writing master has forbidden him to write letters for the present, because it will retard the improvement of his hand writing. I do not understand this theory, and suspect it will not meet the approbation of George’s correspondents at home. The consequence of it is, that I am called to write the weekly letter that is to go with the newspaper almost every week myself.The present Lord Mayor of London, Matthew Wood by name, and a fishmonger by profession, that is a member of the fishmongers company, has taken the fancy to shew extraordinary civility to the American Minister, and has manifested it from the time of his election. You remember perhaps that the annual day of the Lord Mayors induction to office is the 9th. of November. That is always a day of ceremony and there is a great entertainment at Guildhall to which all the foreign Ministers are invited. I received accordingly an invitation to it from Mr Wood, then Lord Mayor elect; but I was then confined to my Chamber with the inflamation in my eyes and was obliged to send an excuse. In February he gave a splendid dinner, and Ball, to the Austrian Archdukes John and Louis, the two youngest brothers of the Emperor of Austria, who were then in England upon a visit. To this all the foreign Ministers were likewise invited and many of them attended. I went a total stranger to the Lord Mayor and to all the company excepting the Archdukes to whom I had been presented the day before, and the foreign Ministers whom I had met at the Regents’ Levee and occasionally elsewhere. It was at this dinner that I was suddenly and most unexpectedly called to answer a complimentary speech, with which the Duke of Kent who sat next to the Lord Mayor, introduced the toast, of the President of the United States. I answered of course in a very few words, concluding with that toast which was published in the Newspapers; then copied into some of those in America, and which is mentioned in one of your letters. He invited me within ten days afterwards to another great entertainment, which he gave to the wardens and officers of his fishmongers company. I was the only foreigner invited to that party, and there I met the Duke of Kent again and the Duke of Sussex whom I had formerly known at Berlin. Not long afterwards these royal brothers were made members of the fishmongers company, upon which occasion the company itself gave a dinner to which I was invited. Then there was the Easter Monday dinner and Ball—Then a dinner given by the Lord Mayor to the Duke of Wellington; and lastly a water party upon the Thames last week. A voyage from Westminster Bridge to Richmond, & a dinner there on board a new City Barge. Will you not be ashamed for me, when I tell you, that the first return I have made to the Lord Mayor for all these more than polite hospitalities, has been by having him to dine with us this day in company with the Duke of Sussex, Lord Erskine, Sir Robert Wilson (who has just returned from his honourable imprisonment) your and my Fathers old friend Chevalier de Freire, and two or three other friends. But if my returns have not been as prompt and frequent and sumptuous as his kindnesses to me you know the reason why. I have not refused his invitations, because I thought  a sulky reserve in return for frank and open civility would be worse than no return at all. The Lord Mayor of London who as you know never serves in that office but one year, receives from the City Twelve thousand pounds sterling for discharging the duties of it. They usually exceed this sum by an expenditure of six or eight thousand pounds and the present Lord Mayor who has a large fortune of his own and has been magnificent in his entertainments beyond example will not get through his year at less cost than double his Salary. His year is now drawing to a close, and he is to be succeeded by a person who has no partialities for any thing American. We shall not be much embarrassed by his civilities.The weather still continues cold and damp; though having for the last ten days had an occasional sight of the Sun, and the temperature of the air only cool, it passes for fine weather & has revived the hopes of an abundant harvest, which I think will be disappointed. Accustomed as I have been all my life to observe the workings of party spirit, I have been surprized to find that from the beginning of this month, it has been here a great party question whether the harvest of this present year would be good or bad. Cobbett who is the literary representation of the Reformers, very early in the month announced that it would be scanty. Mr Hunt another  ardent reformer, at the City meeting last week, pledged his honour that it would be bad. But all the newspapers Ministerial and oppositionist, whig and Tory have opened in full cry against these predictions, and foretold a plentiful or at least an average harvest. The Morning Chronicle which seldom ventures to encounter Cobbett, has felt in this case so confident, that it  has opened a battery of ridicule upon him for his foresight, and says it was a Ghost who told him it, for a joke, and he took it in earnest. Cobbett himself alarmed for his prophetic fame by this universal concurrence of all the legitimates against him; or by the improving prospects of the last ten tolerable days has partially recanted and now 31 August begins to think there will be an average harvest. It is, to use an expression much in vogue here a fundamental feature of Cobbetts character and the source of almost all his errors, that he always over leaps many of his premisses to get at his conclusion. He was over hasty in pronouncing the first week in August that the harvest would fail, and he has been premature in his recantation. My own belief is that there will be a considerable deficiency of all the crops, and especially of the wheat. But to account for the fact seemingly so whimsical, that this question is made a subject of acrimonious party discussion, you must know that all the ruling parties in this country, whigs & Tories, Lands and Funds, all but the Reformers have agreed that most of the distresses now weighing down this Country are owing to excessive plenty to the cheapness of wheat. This they all continue to say, while no small part of their population are nearly perishing with famine. near two years ago when this excessive plenty was at its height, Parliament enacted a Law for the express purpose of keeping up the price of grain. But why this portentous system of aggravating the burthens of the poor? This struggle to give scarcity to the staff of life? because if the farmer who raised the corn, could not sell it, at a high price, he could no longer pay his taxes to the Government; his Rent to the Landlord, his tythes to the parson, and his rates for the poor. If the Landlord could not collect his Rent nor the parson his tythes they too would no longer be able to pay their taxes. If the taxes could not be collected the revenue would fail, and the public creditor could not be paid. Now the cheapness of corn was then attributed to its excessive plenty; and Cobbett alone I believe insisted that there was no superfluous plenty; but that the fall of price was owing entirely to the calling in of the Bank Paper. The corn Bill occasioned violent and dangerous Riots in London when it passed; but it did pass, and its full effects will be disclosed only when the scarcity shall be felt. The scarcity is coming but it has not yet brought relief to the public distress, and as it has dangers of its own, all the parties but the reformers seem inclined to disguise the fact even to themselves. I am yet doubtful what its effect and that of the removal of the property tax will be upon the revenue—Yet that is the all important question. If the revenue does not fail the machine ponderous and complicated as it is, will get along. If it falls off the present quarter even in proportion as it did, the last (I think it will not) there will be a serious struggle tax the funds and perhaps compulsively to reduce the interest of the national debt at the next session of Parliament. In the mean time the popular feeling is getting sore and irritated to such a degree, that fears of commotion are entertained by the sober people of all parties. The City of London have voted a Petition to the Prince Regent, which they know will not be received. Westminster is to have a meeting soon. But petitioning will not become general until the meeting of Parliament. The next winter may produce Serious events.With my duty to my father I remain affectionately yours—


Title: From John Adams to John Quincy Adams, 5 September 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, John Quincy

My ever dear Son
Quincy Sept. 5. 1816

Yesterday Noon Mr and Mrs. De Wint, arrived, in 48 hours from New York. They dined in that City on Monday and dined with me on Wednesday. Such is the facility and rapidity of Communication which Steam Boats Packetts and turnpikes have introduced. They presented to me the first of my great grandchildren that I have Seen of the four that have been given to me, one of whom has been taken away, and the others I Shall probably never See.
Caroline Elisabeth De Wint, born 30th. October 1815, tho’ a little fractious from Toothing is a pretty little active Sprightly Pett, Puppet Baby? What Shall I call her? And her Father Seems to be delighted with her as much as I am. I Shall have many a Gambot with her.
When I recollect, that I was 29 Years of Age when I married, and that I have now Such a Posterity of Children Grand Children and great Grand Chidren, I feel like a Patriarck. But while I look forward with So much pleasure, I cannot help looking backward on the Monuments of my Father Grandfather, Great grandfather and Great Great Great Great Grandfather, all of which are distinctly visible to this hour in the congregational Church Yard in Quincy. I enjoin it upon You, when you return to visit them. Let Us trace this Descent.
Great Great Grand Father—Henry
Great Grandfather Joseph Senior
Grand Father Joseph Junior
Father John,
Son John
Son John Quincy & others
Daughter Abigail Smith
Grand Daughter Abigail Caroline De Wint
Great Grand Daughter Caroline Elizabeth De Wint.
how many Generations. Let us See.
1. Henry,
2 Joseph Senior
3. Joseph Junior
3. John Senior
4 John Junior
5. Abigail
6. Caroline
7. Caroline Elizabeth, Seven Generations. You may trace others: if you think it worth while.
And what of all this? Nothing. Only that this ignoble Blood has not crept through Scoundrels. Not one of the List., which is more I believe than any noble royal or imperial Family in Europe can say for seven generations.
My three Grandaughters your three Neices are connected with three Gentlemen of Education Characters and Circumstances which deserve your Consideration. I hope you will preserve a good Understanding with them; though there will not probably ever be any very intimate Intercourse between You and them.
God bless you all! Devoutly prays.
A.


Title: From John Adams to George Washington Adams, 9 September 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, George Washington,Adams, John,Adams, Charles Francis

My dear George, John and Charles!
Sept. 9. 1816

I have now gone through Terence, and noted a few Lines for you to consider. Many perhaps have escaped my Notice that deserved itA.


Title: From Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams to Abigail Smith Adams, 11 September 1816
From: Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson
To: Adams, Abigail Smith

					Ealing 11 September 1816

				As the Galen is about to sail my dear Madam I hasten to inform you that we have at length received the Watches sent by Mr. Brooks at which we are much rejoiced as they have proved a source of great anxiety to the younger branches of the family.The fashionable Season being over I have little to communicate that can afford you amusement and Mr. Adams informs you so regularly of every event that there is but little left for me to touch on We are both at this time setting for our pictures, (half lengths) for my brother Thomas the Painter is a young American by the Name of Leslie who bids fair to become a very great Artist and whom Mr. West is very proud of Mr. A. tells me his picture is likely to prove an excellent likeness at which I am much delighted as I think he never looked so well or so handsome as he does now. As I only heard late this evening that the Galen was to sail tomorrow I am under the necessity of making my Letter short and will conclude with the assurance of the health of our boys and best and kindest wishes for the President yourself and family.

					L. C. Adams


Title: From Susanna Boylston Adams Clark Treadway to Sarah Smith Adams, 14 September 1816
From: Treadway, Susanna Boylston Adams Clark
To: Adams, Sarah Smith

My Dear Mother
Quincy September 14th. 1816

It seems an age, since I have written, or heard from you, and I cannot allow another post to pass, without writing. I begin to fear that some of my letters to you have miscarried, as I have lost several, very lately, owing to the negligence of the Boston postmaster. Caroline, with her husband, Child and Cousin, have been with us nearly a fortnight, the babe, is a beautiful little creature, and a great source of amusement to us all.
Mr Clark has been absent, almost four weeks, he writes me, that he entertains hopes of recovering part of his Fathers estate, which has fallen into the hands of his Uncle, but I am  in his expectations; when I wrote my dear Parent, some time since, I thought I had made quite a reasonable being, of him, as it respected, delaying our marriage, but I find, he is not so much so, as I expected; he has some property in Maryland, and his pay as a Lieutenant is 800 dollars a year; I am sensible he would make every exertion in his power; and if I possessed any property, I would not hesitate, but as circumstances are now he must be contented untill he can acquire something more. I wish my dearest Mother, you would give me some advice, upon this subject, and if I could see you, it would be a great source of happiness to me, but I am afraid that is impossible, at present.
I have been quite unwell, with a severe cold, and sore throat, the last week; and am still so hoarse I can hardly speak; I am sorry to hear that Sisters little boy is so liable to taking cold; & regret more, and more, every day, her inability to write, as it deprives me of a great source of pleasure, and I sometimes fear, she will quite forget me. the season here, has been, remarkably cold, and dry, we shall have but little grain, and scarce any of the fruit, has come to perfection; people assign various reasons, for this change of climate, but I believe it is most generally attributed to the spots on the Sun. there appears to be universal complaints in every part of the Country, and expectations of a severe winter; GM has been quite well this Summer, but feels the cold weather very sensibly, she must take great care, or she will be laid up again this fall.
I expect Mr Clark, the first of October report says, we are to have an Algerine war, and in that case, he will probably be ordered into the Mediterranean, this Winter; but I hope it is only report, and that he will be able to obtain a furlough and make a voyage to the East Indies, or Havana; business is very dull everywhere, and at present, I see but little prospect, of any active service.
Abby Shaw is to be married, next Wednesday, and reside in Salem. her brother appears quite gratified, and I think Mr Felt an amiable, pleasant man and of very correct principles; which in my opinion, is more to be considered, than wealth and fortune; for without them, all the riches this world could afford, would not secure happiness. there must be some foundation, to build upon, something to command our esteem, and respect; and where we know, true piety, and goodness of heart, to exist, we feel assured, the possessor, will never voluntarily do wrong.
Mr De Wint left here, on Tuesday for New York, but intends returning, in the course of next week, Caroline desires to be affectionately remembered to you, and Sister, in which she is sincerely joined by me, with a kiss for the dear boy. Uncle Adams’ family are well, and the children often enquire after Aunt Adams and Cousin Abby. I hope my dear Mother, it will not be long before I hear from you, and am ever, with the tenderest affection, your daughter
Susan B Adams


Title: From John Adams to Ward Nicholas Boylston, 19 September 1816
From: Adams, John
To: Boylston, Ward Nicholas

Dear Cousin,
Quincy Sept. 19th 1816

I have long meditated to write you a Line. You are giving annual Bounties, for Medical Essays which Nobody reads; No Body thanks you; Nobody learns any Thing from all your Care and expence.
Let me advise you to alter your Plan. Offer Premiums or Premia, for Dissertations on natural History. Not at large, for that Subject is infinite. But upon the Civilization, the Policy, the Legislation and the Administration, of the Several Species of Beasts, Birds, Fishes and Insects. We are knocked down, with the Word, “Instinct”. A Mystery! I understand it not. Sett your ambitious Students to find out its Meaning.
Ants, Bees, Beavers, Elephants, Horses, Wild Boars Wild Geese, Brants Ducks, Widgeons, Wild Pigeons and take Swallows Blackbirds, Catterpillars, Cankerworms Palmer Worms, Mites in Chuse, Even the Animalcules that produce our cutaneous disorders, Such as the Itch and the Salt Rheum, do not Sum to quarrel with each other and devour each other as We Men, Lords of the Creation do.
But there must be Something like Reason, Policy Civilization in all these. If you desire, wish, or hope to See it, I will enlarge a little hereafter on these Subjects. So no more at present from your Cousin
John Adams
1. P. S. For mercy Sake, do not take me in Earnest, I only mean to make you laugh in your Solitude, or rather Retirement. Your Cousin again John Adams,
2. P. S. Give up your Idea of a Boylston Gallery of Pictures in the Boylston Market. You have not considered the Jealousy the Envy, the Malice and the Vengeance it would produce. You know, or at least I have told you how often I have told your Uncle Tom, he was a Tom Fool, for his perpetual visionary Projects of the same kind. Once more Your Cousin John Adams