Title: To John Adams from Samuel B. Malcom, 19 October 1798
From: Malcom, Samuel B.
To: Adams, John

Sir,
New York Octobr: 19th 1798:

A long absence from this City has induced a suspension of those attentions, which duty as well as pleasure will ever impel, and gratitude Command—
Convinced of the sincerity of your interest in any every thing relating to my promotion & success, it is with much satisfaction I inform you, that I was yesterday admitted an Attorney in our supreme Court—. Being thus early about to enter upon a new sphere of action, with a Character I trust that will defy Calumny, it will be my Study to erect on the foundation of Integrity, a superstructure having for its object Knowledge and usefullness—
The fate of the Hero of the great Nation, commands the anxiety of all—a more perfect understanding of our true Interests, and French enterprizes, while it they draws from us regret for the loss of Admiral Nelson soothes us in the Contemplation that Buonaparte is a Captive and his fleet destroyed—
I have this moment understood, that the state of New Jersey, owing to a late arrangement of their Election Laws will depute to Congress five Representatives decidedly in opposition—. Virginia we learn however will evidence a Change much for the better, 7 or 8 members at least, in addition to the three already in Congress.
The mail being about departing, I have time only to add my prayers for the recovery of your Lady, and for your health and happiness— With the / greatest Respect I have the / honor to be your Obt Hble Sert.

Saml. B. Malcom


Title: To John Adams from James Sullivan, 19 October 1798
From: Sullivan, James
To: Adams, John

Sir
Providence 19th October 1798

The Commissioners have agreed that the Scoodiac is the St Croix truly intended in the Treaty of peace. I am of opinion that Benson will accompany Barclay to a Pond near the Penobscott as the source of the river. Whether the Declaration of two Commissioners only is binding, is a question in which I can hereafter have no concern. But at present I am involved in it. The Commissioners are by the treaty to liquidate and determine the expenses to be Come equally by the two nations. Perhaps only two will sign it—or perhaps two only will sign the Declaration as to the boundary and three that as to the expence—
The Secretary of State in his letter to Judge Howell of the 2d of August 1796 says that the President was absent that he had consulted the heads of the departments upon the question proposed by him, whether the final award of two of the Commissioners will be binding, “with respect to the operation of the decision of the Commissioners, if you proceed to examine and decide the question we are unanimously of opinion, contrary to that of the Attorney General, that the determination of any two of the three Commissioners all being present met on the business will be binding on both parties” he then gives the reasons on which they found that opinion, but these are too long to be copied before General Lincoln who carries this must be on his way. They Amount to this, that the possibility of one Commissioners dissenting must have induced the appointment of three, and that it therefore was the intention of the two nations that the award of a majority should bind them.
The Commissioners are to liquidate and determine the expenses. Though two only shall sign the ultimate declaration as to the boundary, yet perhaps all may sign the order of payments, or perhaps two only will sign either. Shall I consider the before mentioned opinion as good authority for paying the united states quota of the expense if two Commissioners only shall sign the award of boundary, or if two shall sign that, and all, the order for payments, am I to pay? Or if only two shall sign each am I to pay? My son has orders to wait on you with this, if you do not coincide with the heads of the departments in the above opinion, he will forward your orders by an express on Sunday but if you do agree, with them it will be unnecessary to send an answer and I shall proceed on their authority
I have the honor to be / with sentiments of the highest respect / your most humble sert

Ja SullivanThe necessity under all circumstances will apologize for my writing immediately to you


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 20 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 20th 1798

The inclosed address and offer of service as a volunteer corps of a troop of horse in the county of Warren N Carolina has been by me unaccountably overlooked. I pray to you answer it without loss of time & send the officers their commissions.
I am &c

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 20 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Dear Sir.
Quincy Oct 20th 1798

There are many things which deserve to be maturely considered before the meeting of congress. I shall mention two or three at present, concerning which I pray you to take as early measures as possible to obtain the advice of the heads of departments. One of them is, whether it will be expedient for the president to recommend to the consideration of congress a declaration of war against France. This question supposes that France shall not have declared war against America the United States. Otherwise I suppose there will be no room for a question. Another inquiry is whether any further proposals of negotiation can be made with safety; & whether there will be any use or advantage in Europe or America, by uniting minds more in our favor, by any such measure. In a message to both houses of congress, on the day last, the president expressed his opinion of the impropriety of sending any ministers to France, without assurances that they shall be received. In this opinion he perseveres. But the question is, whether in the speech, the president may not say, that in order to keep open the channels of negotiation, it his intention, to nominate a minister to the French republick, who may be ready to embark for France, as soon as he or the president shall receive from the directory, satisfactory assurances, that he shall be received and entitled to all the prerogatives and priviliges of the general law of nations, & that a minister of equal rank & powers shall be appointed and commissioned to treat with him. If any measure of this kind should be thought admissible, who shall be the man? Patrick Henry? Judge Patterson? Mr. Senator Ross? Mr Senator Stockton? I mention these, because while they are staunch Americans, they have not been marked as obnoxious to the French. Or shall we fix upon a  war without regard No public speeches have been printed of theirs which have been pointed against the French. Or shall we fix upon a war without regard to this, as Bayard of Deleware, Harper, Sitgreaves &c or shall we fix upon one in Europe, as King, Smith, or Murray?
 Another thing I wish to be considered is whether it will not be necessary to lay before congress, all the papers sent from Mr. Gerry by Mr. Humphreys & if it will, I pray you to have copies of them made for both houses.
I have the honor to be Sir your / most obedient

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to William Falkener, 20 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Falkener, William

To the volunteer corps of horse in the county of Warren and State of N.C.GentlemenQuincy Oct 20th 1798

I received from Capt Caller through the postmaster Gen. in due season, your unanimous address of July 19th. The offer of service as a volunteer corps shall be transmitted to the Secretary at war, to be answered according to law & the rules & usages adopted in General.

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Elbridge Gerry, 20 October 1798
From: Gerry, Elbridge
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Cambridge 20th Octr 1798

I have the honor to inform you, that there has lately been published in the Boston Gazettes, a letter signed “Timothy Pickering”, addressed “to P Johnston Esqr of Prince Edward County, (Virginia,) dated the 29th of September last; wherein Mr Pickering, speaking of the dispatches of the Envoys, says, “that Mr. Tallyrand affects an utter ignorance of the person, designated in the dispatches, by the letters W, X, Y, & Z. & in his letter of May 30th, with solemn grimace, requests Mr Gerry, immediately to communicate to him the names for which those letters stand. And Mr Gerry, altho he knew that Tallyrand was much better acquainted with X, Y, & Z, than he was himself, having complied with this insulting request, Mr Tallyrand makes a formal record of their names &c”.
Had Mr Pickering waited untill my return, he would, I presume, have been convinced by my dispatches, of the impropriety of forming his judgment by the representations only of Mr Tallyrand; who had, by the publication of the dispatches of the Envoys, become my antagonist. he would have seen, that I could not, with propriety, have refused a compliance with that insulting request, as he stiled it; that the publication of the dispatches of the Envoys, had rendered me peculiarly obnoxious to the minister; because by my communications only, it appeared, that he had had connection with the intriguers; that the french Government, who were supposed to be implicated in this affair, had a right to demand of me, thro their minister, such information as might be necessary, to confirm his report, respecting the names of the intriguers; & that in such a critical state, to have refused the information, to have thus provoked the french Government, & to have furnished it with a pretext for indignant measures against myself, would have been a rash & unwarrantable act.—Mr Pickering was not well informed, when he asserted, that the dispatches of the Envoys were not published in France, for they were published in some of the northern departments of the Republick. neither is he warranted in his assertion, that “I knew that Tallyrand was much better acquainted with X, Y, & Z than I was myself”. I presumed that this was the case, with respect to Y: but Z I had known in the United States, when driven from St Domingo; & I knew nothing more of his connection, or of X’s with Mr Tallyrand, than what has been communicated to the publick.
Mr Pickering proceeding, states, that “there is one other important fact relative to this business, not mentioned in the dispatches from the envoys, which ought to be universally known, & of the truth of which he has incontrovertible evidence: it is this, “the company, at the private dinner to which Mr Gerry was invited by Mr Tallyrand, consisted of X, Y, & Z. after rising from table, X & Y renewed to Mr Gerry in the room; & in the presence (tho perhaps not in the hearing) of Tallyrand, the money propositions which the Envoys had before rejected”. &c
This “important fact”, notwithstanding “the incontrovertible evidence” which Mr Pickering speaks of, never existed. I dined with Mr Tallyrand but twice, once at his table & once at my own, whilst the other Envoys were in Paris. X, Y, & Z were at his table & Y & Z at mine, with fifteen or twenty other persons, at each dinner. how then it can be said, that “I was invited by Mr Tallyrand at a private dinner” & “that the company consisted of X, Y, & Z”, I am yet to learn. the proposition which X & Y then made, was I think relative to the loan only: be this as it may, it was instantly rejected, by my declaring, that we had neither power or funds for the purpose. this was subsequent to the dates of the letter of the Envoys No 1. & 2, in which we had detailed our conferences with X & Y, on the money propositions. nevertheless, had the Envoys supposed this fact, necessary to have been added to our voluminous communications on the same subject, I was ready to adopt the measure, & to have made it as “universally known” as universally known as the latter.
I shall make, Sir, no further comments on the Letter referred to, because I am persuaded, that your Excellency will be convinced of the errors pointed out, & will be disposed, in the most publick & prompt manner, to do me justice: & because I presume, that Mr Pickering will readily promote the same measure.
I have the honor to remain Dear Sir / with the most perfect respect, / and attachment, your very huml Sert—

E Gerry.


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 20 October 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

(private)
Sir,Trenton Oct. 20. 1798.

I have been this day honoured with your letters of the 14th & 15th. I am very happy that you and Mrs. Adams approve of my letter to the Freeholders of Prince Edward County, Virginia.
This morning I recd. from Mr. King a letter dated June 20. in which is the following passage.
“Notwithstanding his pretended delicacy, Hauteval by no means denies the agency ascribed to him in soliciting the Bribe required by Talleyrand. Colonel Trumbull, who was at Paris soon after the arrival of the Commissioners has more than once informed me that Hauteval told him that both the Donceur & the Loan were indispensable & urged him to employ his influence with the American Commissioners to offer the bribe as well as the Loan.”
I have the honor to be, sir, / your most obt. servant

Timothy Pickering


Title: To John Adams from Alexander Hamilton, 20 October 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adams, John

Sir
New York October 20. 1798

The very obliging manner, in which you was pleased to assure me of the appointment of my nephew Philip Church, and the actual appointment of my relation Captan Hamilton to a Lieutenancy in the Navy, which I just learn from the Marine Department, are circumstances from which I derive much pleasure, which I consider as conferring upon me a personal obligation, and for which I beg you to accept my very cordial acknowlegements—
With perfect respect & esteem / I have the honor to be Sir / Your very Obed Servant

A Hamilton


Title: To John Adams from George Washington, 21 October 1798
From: Washington, George
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Mount Vernon 21st October 1798

The letter with which you were pleased to honor me, dated the 9th. instant—was received by the last Mail; and demands my particular acknowledgments.
It was with sincere concern I received the account of Mrs. Adams’s low state of health, and your consequent indisposition—If my fervent wishes would restore her, and you, to perfect health, this object would soon be accomplished:—and in these wishes, Mrs. Washington unites with, great cordiality.—
In her behalf, and for myself, I thank you for your kind wishes respecting us.—She is as well as usual, and I am quite recovered of the fever with which I was afflicted sometime ago; and nearly so of the debility in which it left me.
If the Office of Adjutant General had been vacant by the non-acceptance of Mr. North, no one could have filled it more agreeably to my wishes than either of the Gentlemen suggested by me in the arrangement made with the Secretary of War—Of course General Dayton would have been an acceptable Appointment—It appears however, by a letter I have lately received from the War Office, that Mr. North has not declined the honor you did him.—
With great consideration and respect /  I have the honor to be / Sir / Your Most Obedient & / Most Hble Servant

Go. Washington


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 22 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy October 22d 1798

I received on Saturday your favor of the 15th. When I dated the commissions of the Major generals on the same day, I had made up my mind, that if an acquiescence by amicable agreement in the opinion of General Washington should not take place, I would confirm his judgment, whatever it might be.
If I could have been at Philadelphia to receive him, I should have invited General Washington to that city long ago. I cannot go to that city nor to Trenton very soon. Mrs. Adams’s health is so low, and her life so precarious, that it will be impossible for me to force myself away from her, till the last moment. The last has been the most gloomy summer of my life, & the prospect of a winter is more dismal still—for if I should not have a more melancholy seperation to endure, before I sett out for the Southward, I must then leave my family here and pass a dreary winter alone at the seat of government. At all events however, I must be at the opening of congress or give up.
Nothing shall wait for me that you send me here If you and the generals judge it necessary to appoint the officers of battalions, before we can have opportunity to nominate them to the senate, you may fill up the commissions with the blanks you have, or if you have not enough, send new ones by the post, as is every day done from the office of State, of Treasury and of the Navy and I will sign them without loss of time.
As to the recruiting service, I wonder whether there has been any enthusiasm, which would induce men of common sense to inlist for five dollars a month, who could have fifteen when they pleased by sea or for common work at land? I have no attachment to one, more than another of the candidates for appointment. The general officers are so well accquainted with the characters, that I shall have no hesitation to appoint such as you and they recommend. It may be well however to let the Secretaries of State, Treasury, Navy & Attorney general, if convenient, see the list, that if they have any objection they may mention it or any idea to suggest, they may propose it.
There has been no rational plan that I have seen as yet formed for the maintenance of the army. One thing I know, that regiments are costly articles, every where & more so in this country than in any other under the sun. If this nation sees a great army to maintain without an ennemy to fight, there may arise an enthusiasm, that seems to be little foreseen. At present there is no more prospect of seeing a French army here, than there is in Heaven
I am Sir your most obedient

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Lyman, 22 October 1798
From: Lyman, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir
Springfield Octr: 22d 1798

I believe it will afford you a little satisfaction, to read the enclosed Sermon, not only on account of the just Sentiments it contains, but also on account of the evidence it gives, that a Preacher of Jacobinism, may become a Preacher of Righteousness—The Cause of Truth and Federalism is substantially good, & will prevail, it commands the respect of Doctor Lathrop—Science and Literature must sacrifice to it, althô they may for a Season, burn incense to other Gods—
I am, Sir, with sentiments / of the greatest respect and / Esteem your / hble: Sert

Samuel Lyman


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 22 October 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Trenton Oct. 22. 1798.

I take pleasure in transmitting to you the inclosed address from Glynn County in Georgia, forwarded by General Gunn, whose letter of the 1st instant I also inclose.
I also inclose a letter from Gideon Hill Wells relative to a pipe of Wine imported for you by his uncle the late H. J. Hill. And have the honor to be / with great respect, / sir, your most obt. servt.

Timothy PickeringP.S. Inclosed is one letter for Mrs. Adams, from Berlin.


Title: To John Adams from Alexandre-François-Auguste de Grasse-Rouville, comte de, marquis de Tilly Grasse, 22 October 1798
From: Grasse, Alexandre-François-Auguste de Grasse-Rouville, comte de, marquis de Tilly
To: Adams, John

				Duplicata
					his Excellency
					Charleston South Carolina 22th. October 1798.

				When I arrived here to Look for a Shelter against the dreadful Evils which threatened us in the most unfortunate Colony of St. Domingo, I Sollicited from President Washington a friend to my father the means of Subsisting of which an atrocious revolution had deprived me. Warmly Suported by General Knox, I was happy enough as to obtain to be employed as a Sub-Engineer under Mr. Serrant in the State of South Carolina. I allways Served under Mr. Serrant Chief engineer and Conjointly With Capne. Kalteizen, the only fort to which I have been employed, is that of fort Johnston, though the Works done there have not been of much consequence, yet it is according to my plans and Conscile it has been repaired. I am Confident President, I have not demerited; yet as a Stranger, I perhaps may have been misrepresented to the Government and I am induced to believe it, being not employed to the fortifications of this Port, which the apprehension of a War has rendered necessary, having served in  Europe with the General Esteem of my Chiefs, this neglect from the Government is so much the more Grievous to me, because it has, brought in the mind of my intimate friends, suspicions that Can hurt my reputation.Concious however sir you have been impressed with no idea unfavorable to me, I take de liberty to address myself to you to obtain some employment in the new Bodies that they are levying in your State. in 1785. I Began to serve as Captain Chief of Squadron in the Regiment of Royal Pologne to which I have been attached till oblige to quit france, with many of my comrades. Some time before my departure, my Prince had been pleased to promote me to rang of major in Second, but I could not fulfill those new duties on account of the troubles then existing in my unfortunate Country. before entering the Cavalry, I had Served in the King’s regiment of infantry, and I dare Say that I have allways quited those divers bodies Carrying with me the regrets and the esteem both of my Chiefs and Comrades.I have entreated Mr. harper to be so Good as to deliver my letter to you and to join his entreaties to mine, to obtain from you either Some employment in the new bodies of Cavalry or infantry or any other place you will be pleased to Grant me. you must remain Convinced sir that I intend to Serve your Country with the Greatest zeal and that the Services my father has had the happiness to render to this Continent shall allways be the basis and the Guid of my Conduct, besides having engraved for ever in my hart the benefits I have received from your Country they will answer for my fidelity and zeal.I have the honor to be with the highest Esteem and the most perfect Consideration / Of your, Excellency / the most humble and the / obedient servant

					Auguste de Grasse


Title: From John Adams to Daniel Jackson, 23 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Jackson, Daniel

Sir
Quincy Oct 23d 1798

The firewards of the town of Boston have requested permission to deposit at castle Island a quantity of Gunpowder now lying in the harbor of Boston and more that is soon expected to arrive. As I can foresee no material inconvenience from granting from such permission. I request that you would give orders that for such gun powder as the firewards shall desire to be deposited at the castle, at the risque of the owners untill further orders. And I request you to order that the same care be had of its safety as of the stores of the same article belonging to the U.S.
With much esteem &c

J Adams


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 23 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy October 23d 1798

Inclosed are letters from Gen. Schuyler Gen. Hull, Capt. James Cunningham which I pray you to consider and answer Hull and Cunningham according to usage. Also letters from Jeremiah Olney & Murdoch Murphy which you will please to consider in determining on the candidates for commissions. Also recommendations of Thomas Bowman Esq. son of Judge—Bowman of Pownaborough an excellent federalist father & son
I have the honor to be yours &c

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Henry Knox, 23 October 1798
From: Knox, Henry
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Boston 23d. October 1798.

I have received your letter, enclosing a commission, and giving me to understand, that, A Hamilton is ranked as the first, C C Pinckney the second, and myself as the third, Major General, and that this arrangement is considered as definitive.
In so plain a case, it is unnecessary to multiply words. The impossibility of my serving under Officers so much my juniors, must have been known, to those who made the arrangement. The principle that no Officer can consent, to his own degradation, by serving in an inferior station, is well known, and established among military men.
The duty which I owe to myself, precludes my placing myself, in such a situation. I therefore definitively decline the appointment of third Major General.
In this aspect of the affairs a compliance with your Invitation, to repair to Trenton or Philadelphia, would answer no valuable purpose.
The recommendations, and applications, I have recieved, from this, and the nieghbouring States; for military Commissions, shall be transmitted to the War Office, before the 10th of November.
I have the honor be Sir / Your most obedient / Servant—
(signed) H Knox


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 25 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Quincy Oct 25th 1798

Inclosed is a letter from Major Gen Hull of the 9th of Oct & another of the 19th inclosing an address of the officers & soldiers of the 4th regiment in the 2d brigade & 3d division of the militia of Masstts. The offer of service as a volunteer corps I pray you to answer according to law & usage
Inclosed also is a letter of 6 Oct from Major Gen Hull & brigadier Gen Walker with an address from the officers of the 1st brigade 3d division. You will please to consider all these papers together & give such an answer as it is fit. I believe we must accept the brigade which offers as a volunteer corps & appoint Hull as a brigadier Walker perhaps will be appointed at Lt Colonel in the army. Why may we not accept the whole division & appoint Hull the Major Gen.
I have the honor to be &c.

J Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 25 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy Oct 25th 1798

I return you Mr Adams’s letter No 128 and the document inclosed in it. I congratulate you on Gen Pinckneys arrival and condole with you on Gen. Marshalls erroneous answers to his catechist.
An account of the conduct of the French in overturning the government of Switzerland, written by Sir Francis D’Ivernois has been published in one of the Boston papers. Perhaps that which you have received may be the same, if it is keep it till I see you.
Inclosed is an extract of a letter from Mr Russel, a son of Mr Joseph Russel of Boston, the late auctioneer. It relates a curious and important fact, which I dont remember to have heard before.
I am Sir your most humble

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 25 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 25th 1798

I return you the pardon of Wanton signed & pray you to have the seal of the US official affixed & the man liberated as soon as possible being convinced that humanity & the public good will justify it.

J Adams


Title: To John Adams from John Rutledge, 25 October 1798
From: Rutledge, John
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
New Port October 25th 1798

I have been requested by many very respectable Gentlemen of Charleston, who subscribed liberaly for building the ship of war which is constructing in that Port, to make application for having Mr. John Smith appointed a second or third lieutenant in the Navy. As soon as I heard from the gentlemen who have solicited a commission for Mr Smith, I wrote to the Secretary of the Navy, and did not intend troubling you on the subject: but my having lately heard that Mr. Stoddert has gone to Maryland, & thinking it probable my letter to him may sleep at the navy Office untill he shall return, will excuse, I hope, the great liberty I take in making this direct application. Mr John Smith is the nephew of Bishop Smith. His father served with reputation during the late war, he has been to the east Indies, & has the character of uniting bravery and discretion with considerable nautical skill. Mrs. Rutledge desires me to offer the homage of her respect & esteem to Mrs. Adams and yourself, to which I beg lave to add that of, Dr Sir, / Your much obliged / and most obedient Servant

J: Rutledge, Junr.


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 26 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 26th 1798

I return you have recieved your favor of the 18 with the copies of your letters to the Govenours of Maryland & Georgia.
I return you the address of the Gen & field officers of the 11th brigade & the 3d brigade in Maryland as you desire. That from Warren county I sent sometime ago
I am &c

J Adams


Title: From John Adams to Maryland Militia, 26 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Maryland Militia

To the General and Field Officers of the Eleventh Brigade in Baltimore County belonging to the third Division of Maryland Militia
GentlemenQuincy Oct. 26. 1798

I received in its season your obliging Address and regret that Circumstances, sufficiently known have not permitted me an earlier opportunity of giving that particular Attention to it, which its Merits demanded. General Washingtons Acceptance of the Chief Command of the Army has been received, as it could not fail to be received with the general universal and affectionate Congratulations of his Fellow Citizens throughout the Union, and with the Admiration and Applause of all Men of Principle in foreign Nations. The vain and arrogant Attempt to promote Discord between the Citizens of the United States and their Government, are still continued with with all their finesses. I trust, with you, that the American People are not to be the Dupes.
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from James Sullivan, 26 October 1798
From: Sullivan, James
To: Adams, John

Sir
Boston 26th Octr. 1798

A letter is gone on from the Agent of the united States on the St Croix boundary to the Secretary of State, informing him, that the Commissioners have fixed on the Scoodiac river as the St. Croix truly intended &c: and on the most remote water issuing into the northern branch of that river as the source. This settlement, will, I beleive, be quite agreeble to Massachusetts. A water boundary will be most eligible for the united States. Mr Liston, who was at Providence, says the result will be agreeable to his Government. A private Letter to the Secretary of State gives some of the most important measures in the business. It was rather, as to the Source, a matter of negociation than a Judicial determination. Much is due to the candor & exertions of Mr Liston.
I remain with the most / perfect respect Your Most humble Servant

Ja Sullivan


Title: To John Adams from Richard Brearse, 26 October 1798
From: Brearse, Richard,Mason, Alexander
To: Adams, John

To the President of the United States
Taunton oct. the 26 A 1798

We, the Grand Jurors for the County of Bristol, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts convened for the discharge of our official duties, at the Supreme Judicial Court now Sitting in this County, have been induced by the feelings, common to Americans, at this important crisis; (and by the able and interesting charge of the Chief Justice) to assure you of their respect & attachment to your person, and their confidence in the integrity, wisdom & firmness of your administration.
While Our Government, by a Sincere & impartial neutrality, constantly manifested a solicitude to maintain peace & friendship with all the World, We fondly hoped that the republic of France would have been the last to infringe on that neutrality, or to  invade our rights, but we have been deceived—we have heard hollow profissions of friendship, and have felt real war—Our Missengers of peace have been rejected with a haughtiness unparrelled in the history of Nations. Attempts have been made, & it is believed, are still making to Seperate the People of this Country from their Government. Injuries have been followed by insults, till the digrading Scene has been closed by a demand of Tribute,—In such a State of Things friendship with France, must become death to America.
Impressed, as we are With these ideas, we cannot but applaud those measures, which have been adapted to Secure & defend our rights, and to dissolve that political connexion with France, which has been continually violated, by the faithless government of that Republic; And we pledge ourselves to support with alacrity all those measures and to hazard every thing in defence of the liberty and independence of Our Country.
Should the French Government persevere in their design to controul the United States, whatever may be the mode of approach, whether with Smiling fraud or open force,—We trust that the understanding and Spirit of Americans, will be found competent to their own defence and the national honour.
May the Supreme ruler of the Universe, long preserve your invaluable life, and continue unabated the powers of a mind constantly exercised in the Service of your Country, till the tempest which lours upon us shall have passed away, & America once more enjoy, undisturbed, priviledges too hardly earned to be surrendered without one manly struggle to Maintain them.
Richd. Pearse Foreman.Alexander Mason, ClerkJeremiah MayhewDavid LutherWilliam FrancisTimothy FosterGilbert HathewaySolomon SnowJon: LeonardJohn DeanNathl. TobeyGeorge WilliamsIsaac CoryJohn MacomberJacob IdeThomas LeeEdward WilliamsDaniel RichardsonEphraham WilberAmbrose Woodward


Title: To John Adams from Charles Lee, 27 October 1798
From: Lee, Charles
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Alexandria october 27th. 1798

I had the honor to receive your letter of the 10th. a few days ago and sympathising with you on account of the tedious illness of Mrs. Adams it is pleasing to learn that her health is in such a state of convalescence as to enable her to undertake a long journey; and I hope and pray your own strength may be restored before the meeting of Congress and that you may be blessed with health at all times to go through the arduous duties which have been imposed on you by our Country and most especially at this perilous juncture.
Believing the malady in Philadelphia to be of the same kind which has before afflicted that city, and having already twice experienced no danger to the health of the members of Congress during the winters which succeeded the malady I am of opinion that it will be safe for Congress to meet there in december. If they cannot meet in Philadelphia for this cause, it is difficult to find a place where they could be conveniently accomodated unless in maryland, as the same objection lies against Newyork and Wilmington. A very few days now will ascertain whether Philadelphia will be safe and if unsafe I will suggest for consideration whether Baltimore would not be preferable either to Annapolis or George Town. If the meeting cannot be in Philadelphia many reasons would suggest make it desireable to come at once to the Patowmack; but I fear very much neither George town nor the city or both together are in condition to supply accomodations at this moment that would be agreeable. Of this however I do not speak with absolute certainty.
In my next I shall comply with your request relative to the Speech.
I have the honor to remain with / perfect respect sir your most / obedient humble servant

Charles Lee


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 27 October 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir
War Department 27 Octbr. 1798

I had the honour to receive on the 26th inst. your letter dated Quincy the 17th, inclosing me a letter from his Excellency Governor Jay, and a copy of an act of the Legislature of N. York, with a copy of your answer to the Governor, and of your letter to General Hamilton, and requiring me to submit these papers to the consideration of the heads of departments and according to their judgements to confirm officially what you had done, or let it remain as it is or reverse it. Inclosed is a copy of the submission I have accordingly made to the heads of departments.
I have the honour to be with the greatest attachment Sir / Your most ob St.

James McHenry


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

Sir,
Navy Department Trenton Oct. 27. 1798.

I have the honor to inclose a list of officers for the ship George Washington, fitting for sea at Providence. If the persons named and recommended meet your approbation, it will be desirable that the commissions & warrants signed by you should be returned immediately, as Captain Talbot has made such dispatch in improving and equipping the ship that he expects to have her ready for sea by the 10th of November.—I also take the liberty to subjoin to the list the offices to fill which no persons have yet been recommended; that seeing they are only of the lower grades, you may if you think proper sign the necessary warrants in which the names which shall be recommended by Captain Talbot may be inserted as soon as they come to hand: the additional warrants are for that purpose inclosed.
I am, sir, with great respect / Your most obt. servant

Timothy Pickering


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

Sir
Trenton Oct. 27.1798

The original French of Chauvets letter to Galatin, exhibiting the perfidy and violence of France in subverting the Swiss Republic, I recd. from Mr. King. It appeared to me so important a detail of facts at the present moment, I put it into the hands of a son  of Mr. Abraham Hunt, whom I found at leisure, to translate. It has been faithfully done. I encouraged the printer here to give it to the public in a pamphlet. To-day I recd. some copies, & have the honor to inclose a couple.
With great respect / I am sir your most obt. servt.

Timothy Pickering
   This young gentleman is a candidate for a captaincy in the army.


Title: To John Adams from Joshua Winslow, 27 October 1798
From: Winslow, Joshua
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Fayetteville No. Carolina 27th. Octo. 1798

I take the liberty to inform you that Colo. Robert Rowan the Commissioner of Loans for the district of North Carolina, died on the 26th. Inst. It is, Sir, in consequence of this event that I presume to address you and humbly solicit that appointment in his place.
I do not ascribe to myself any uncommon merit on which I might found a claim to such a favor:—A consciousness of being fully competent to the duties of the Office, and supporting a character such as I flatter myself you will conceive not unworthy the appointment, these, added to a genuine love for my native country, and the highest veneration for its Government form the basis on which I presume to hope for a preference.
My name and family, I beleive sir, are not strange to you, my father having spent a great part of his life at Braintree, where I was born. Mr. Steele the Comptroller, and Mr. Grove our Representative in Congress from this district, have been acquainted with me from my earliest residence in this State; those Gentlemen will do me the honor to point out to you, if necessary, my character and situation.
If, Sir, I have been irregular in the etiquette of addressing this letter direct to you, with too much familiarity, I have only to entreat your pardon, and hope it will not indicate a want of respect for a Character whichwho is revered by few more than, / Sir, yr. most obt. servant

Joshua Winslow


Title: From John Adams to James McHenry, 28 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: McHenry, James

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 28th 1798

Inclosed is a letter from Gen Wadsworth & an address of a company of Volunteers at Portland. I pray you would answer this without loss of time & send the officers their comissions as I have accepted of their offer.
Inclosed also is a recommendation of the Rev Jacob Emerson of Masss. to be chaplain at Castle Island. If the law enables us to appoint chaplains to the Artillerists or any other way, I wish a commission may be sent to this gentlemen.
Mrs Adams presents her thanks to Mrs. McHenry for her kind letter; but although she thinks herself somewhat better she is too weak to be able to write.
I have the honor to be / Sir / your most humble servant

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Samuel B. Malcom, 28 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Malcom, Samuel B.

Dear Sir
Quincy Oct 28 1798

I received last night your favor of the 19th. With much pleasure I learn that you were admitted to the bar on the 18th.—A man of integrity & humanity, master of the profession of the law may be & almost always is as independant useful & respectable a character as any in society. I wish you all the pleasure, all the profit and all the honor in the career before you, which you can reasonably wish for yourself, or any of your friends desire for you.
The captivity of Buonaparte is not so certain as the unfortunate election in New Jersey. You give us comfort from Virginia.
Mrs. Adams we hope is so much better as to be upon the recovery; but we fear the convalescence will be very slow and very long before she attains her usual health & strength.
I am my dear Sir your faithful / humble servant

J Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 28 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy Oct 28th 1798

Inclosed is a letter of Judge Iredell, by which it appears that Judge Ire Wilson died on the night of the 21st of Augt.
Inclosed also is a letter from Mr Desdoity which I request you to answer according to law and usage. Another from RB Forbes which I request you to note & file for consideration in due season.
I received last night from the post office in Boston a bundle of addresses like the ones inclosed from L. Hauteval. I suppose every man who can move a pen in France is to send his declamations and exhortations among our people in order to stirr up different opinions and feelings if possible.
I am Sir your most humble servant

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Peleg Wadsworth, 28 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wadsworth, Peleg

Dear Sir.
Quincy Oct 28th. 1798

I have received your favor of the 19th and have accepted the service of the Portland federal volunteers & written to the Secretary at War to send them their commissions without loss of time.
With great esteem and regard I have the / honor to be Sir your most obedient & / humble servant

John Adams.


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 29 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy Oct 29th 1798

I have received your favor of Oct 18 & pray you when you see Gen. Pinckney to congratulate him for me on his arrival; but I would not wish him to think of a journey here to see me. I shall see him I hope e’er long at Trenton or Philadelphia.
The two letters returned in yours are important. The first has made a great impression on me. Inclosed is another letter which I pray you to decypher & return as soon as possible. But dont me write me any letter to arrive at Quincy or Boston after the 10th of Nov.
I am, Sir, yours

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 29 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Private
SirQuincy Oct. 29. 1798

I have recd your favour of Oct. 18.  And pray you when you see General Pinckney to congratulate him for me on his arrival; but I would not wish him to think of a Journey here to see me. I shall see him I hope eer long at Trenton or Philadelphia.
The two Letters returned in yours are important. The first has made a great Impression on me.
Inclosed is another Letter which I pray you to decypher, and return as soon as possible. But dont write me any Letters to arrive at Quincy or Boston after the 10. of Novr.
I am sir yours
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Charles Clapham, 29 October 1798
From: Clapham, Charles
To: Adams, John

Respected Sir
Quincy Octo. 29th 1798—

I took the Liberty (some Weeks ago) to address a Line to you, inclosing a Diagram, by which I attempted to prove, that a Circle might be found equal to a given square, and demonstrated geometrically—Upon which, I requested your Opinion—But the unhappy sickness in Your Family (which I sincerely lament) & Duties of your Office as Chief Magistrate have no doubt prevented you from complying with my Request—As I have Thoughts of laying my Proposition before the American Academy of Arts & Sciences—and have found on reflection, that there are Two or three inaccuracies, or Matters not fully explain’d, I would request your Excellency to return the Diagram, and if you think it may Merit a Review after the alterations, I shall be proud to forward to you Sir, one much more accurate—
With all Respect / I am / Your Devoted Humble servant

Chas. Clapham


Title: To John Adams from Isaac Tichenor, 29 October 1798
From: Tichenor, Isaac
To: Adams, John

Sir,
State of Vermont, City of Vergennes Octr. 29th. 1798

Since I had the honor of writing to you yesterday—the Officers of the Grand Lodge within this State, have requested me to forward to you Sir, the inclosed Address—As the Gentlemen composing this Lodge are among the first Characters for respectability—it gives me great pleasure to comply with their request, and I flatter myself at this particular Crisis of our national concerns, the evidence of their attachment to their Country, and of their personal attachment to you Sir, cannot be unacceptable—
With great consideration / & Respect, I have the / Honor to be your / Excellency’s most / Obt. Sert

Isaac Tichenor


Title: To John Adams from Isaac Tichenor, 29 October 1798
From: Tichenor, Isaac
To: Adams, John

Sir,
State of Vermont City of Vergennes Octr. 29 1798

Pursuant to the requests of the Legislature of this State, I have the honor of inclosing to you the within Address—to the sentiments it contains, in all cases, but more particularly as they relate to you Sir, and your administration, permit me to add my fullest—my most unequivocal Approbation.
With the warmest wishes / for your health & happiness / I have the Honor to be your / Excellency’s Obt. Sert

Isaac Tichenor


Title: To John Adams from Oliver Whipple, 29 October 1798
From: Whipple, Oliver
To: Adams, John

Most respected Sr.
Hampton near Portsmouth Octor. 29 1798

Being in Portsmouth this day, I was credibly informed, that Mr. Nathaniel Folsom, was certainly recommended to your Excellency for the office of naval officer, in the Room of Mr. Russell deceased, by his Brother in Law Governor Gilman, altho’ I exceeding respect Governor Gilman, & value his Recommendations, yet Sr a Person who enjoys a high office from the Suffrages of the People, ought not to entertain the Idea, that none but his particular Relations & Connections are suitable for offices of Goverment, The Governor’s Relations & Friends in this State has a double Chance; as chief Majestrate he can give them the Emoluments in the State, and he is not insensible That his Recommendations have Weight with the feoderal Executive, Mr: Folsom has had sundry State Favors, only because The Governor has had a Predilection to two of his Sisters,—I stand alone, upon independent Ground, & can console myself that none can impeach my Ability Honesty or Integrity in any Department I have been in; and I flatter myself, & your Excellency may rely upon it, that my appointment will be as pleasing to the mercantile & feoderal Port of Portsmouth, as the appointment of Mr. Folsom, The Governor’s Recommendation notwithstanding; I now live on my Farm near Town; I have a Wish to remove again to Town for the Education of my Daughters who are Young, and it is my Wish to be in the feoderal Line, & it is my ambition to hold this office from your hand, & thro’ your Friendship alone, (which shall never be dishonour’d) to mortify some Jacobins, who tauntingly say, “your Zeal & Exertions for the feoderal Government & your darling Adams will never meet attention, or Reward.” Let me dear Sr. as you have permitted me to address you  this one Boon my Friends & Connections have been & Still are as respectable, Supportive ... Goverment as any in the Union, and are your perticular Friends & Admirers, I am ...eat Esteem & Respect, your faithful

Oliver Whipple


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Adams, 30 October 1798
From: Adams, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

State of New Hampr. Newington Octr: 30: 1798

With Humble Permission I Approach to Address your Great Personage In your Great and Exalted Station where in you are raised by the free Choise and Suffrages of a Free and Independant People: where in I rejoice and Congratulate you: I would Use the words of King Solomon and Say that It is my Hearts Desire and Prayers to Almighty God for You that you may have an understanding Heart to Judg thy People. That you may Discern Between Good and Bad. For who Is able to Judg this so Great a People: I may Say that I rejoice at Your Great wisdom, in the Choise and Appointment of your Envoys Sent to France and in their Firmness and Stability in manageing the Buisiness of their mission and that our French Enemy are So far Buffeted and Disappointed in their False Designs and wicked Perfidious machinations against us: I would Say that I Rejoice to Hear that the People in this Land In General are so far and Firmly united in one Common and So Great and Good a Cause, I Can Say that the People of New Hampshire State In General are as Firm in the Support of Government and the Constitution as the Pillers of Brass and Iron. I would make Some apologi for my not Addressing you Eairlyer. But Knowing that you were Incumbered with a multiplicity of Buisiness in Your Great and Exalted Station Caused me to Neglect my Duty towards you. I hop you Will Pardon my Neglect: I must Inform you that I Enjoy a Good State of Health at this time though advanced to Sixty Seven Years of Age I would Inform you that I and my family are Stanch Federilists and Stand Redy to Defend our Countery and the Constitution to the Risk of Life and Fortune against all Invadors of our Rights and Privilages. I would use the Freedom to tell You that I had the Honour to be a member in our State Convention to Establish our Continental Constitution and On the Majority I would Inform you after my Enjoying a Good State of Health and am Blessed with a Hansom Estate in this Life to my Self and Children and I may Say I am in a Great measure Independant to all men and that I am Honoured with the Honours in the Civil List in the State of New Hampshire though Nothing in thiese Stations are Very Lucrative I Should Like Some Appointment under the United States If not too Cumbersum that might be Profitable If thought worthy of Notice I wish you Health Long Life and a Great Blessing to our States Fare you well. I Subscribe my Self after my Love to your Brother and all friends
Benjamin Adams


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 30 October 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir.
War Department 30 Octbr. 1798

I had the honour to receive your letter dated the 22d inst. this morning.
Inclosed are copies of letters from me of this date, to generals Washington & Pinckney, also copies of letters to me from Generals Hamilton & Knox the one dated the 19th inst. and the other the 23d.
It is with sincere sorrow I received the information respecting Mrs. Adams’s low state of health, and your own distressing and gloomy prospects. I hope, she may soon be restored to you in particular. I am sure no one can wish it more ardently than I do.
With real attachment & respect I have the honour to be Sir / Your most ob. & hbl St

James McHenry


Title: To John Adams from John Steele, 30 October 1798
From: Steele, John
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Trenton Octo. 30th. 1798

I beg leave to present you the enclosed address transmitted to me by Edward Jones Esqr. Solicitor General of the State of North Carolina at the request of the grand jury of Salisbury District.
I have received your answers to the Guilford and Edenton addresses; but do not percieve that you have returned the addresses which will delay the publication until you will be so obliging as to favor me with them.
Last night and the night before we had frost enough to open our way to the City of Philada. Many will return this week and the public offices probably in the course of the next. With wishes for the perfect and speedy recovery of Mrs. Adams, and with sentiments of the most profound respect and veneration for your person and character
I have the honor to be / Sir / Your mot. Obt. & humble servant

Jno. Steele


Title: To John Adams from George Thatcher, 30 October 1798
From: Thatcher, George
To: Adams, John

Sir
Biddeford 30th October 1798

I am just informed by some people from Portsmouth that the office of Naval Office is vacant by the death of Mr. Russell, and am requested to mention to your Oliver Whipple Esqr. who at this time resides about fifteen miles out of Portsmouth as a very fit & trusty person to discharge the duties of that place.
I have been acquainted with Mr. Whipple for fifteen years. He is an attorney at Law, & till lately lived in Portsmouth—He is now, and has been for several years Representative in the Legislature of that State—and is well attached to order & Government. I should suppose Mr. Whipple is about fifty years of age—or upwards He now lives on his estate, but would like to remove to Portsmouth, & be in more-active life.
For ought I know other candidates may have been recommended for this office—and I do not wish to interfere in another state than the one I live in, but am induced to give you this information, from a perfect conviction that Mr. Whipple would make a very good officer—
I am with perfect / respect, Sir, your most / obedient, humble servant

George Thatcher


Title: From John Adams to Me., Citizens of North Yarmouth, 31 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: North Yarmouth, Me., Citizens of

To the Inhabitants of the Town of North Yarmouth in the District of Maine
GentlemenQuincy October 31. 1798

The unanimous Address adopted by you in a legal Town Meeting on the 9th of July, was in due season transmitted by your Committee to Phyladelphia as you directed and from thence by the Secretary of the Treasury to me. The manly and patriotic Sentiments so handsomely a project in it as well as the affectionate respect to me so handsomely expressed in it, merited an earlier Acknowledgment
We must all learn the important and indispensable Lesson, to love our own Country in Preference to all others. Nations as well as Individuals are all liable to the Illusions of Self Love, Pride and Vanity, prompting them to exact from other Nations, whom they often erroneously think weaker than themselves and in their Power, Submissions and Acknowledgment Sometimes of Gratitude and sometimes of Tribute to which they have no Claim founded in Truth or Justice. Nations which think themselves great, are apt to indulge in Such Pretensions towards such as they think small to a degree of Madness. This Distember is cured only by War, and Resistance and defence

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to John Clark, 31 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Clark, John

To the Officers of the third division of Georgia MilitiaGentlemen,
Quincy October 31. 1798

An Address, so full of Confidence and Attachment to the Constitution, Confidence in the Government and respect and Affection to me as yours Adopted by so large a Portion of the Militia and Subscribed by so long a List of Respectable officers, demands my most respectful and affectionate Acknowledgments.
The honest Zeal of our Countrymen for a Cause which they thought connected with Liberty and Humanity might lead some of them to intemperate Irregularities, which a sound discretion and strict Policy could not justify: and these might lead the French Government and their Agents into some of the unwarrantable Measures they have hazarded. Wisdom will teach Us a Lesson from this Experience, to be more upon our guard in future, more slow to speak and more swift to hear. It should even teach Us to be cautious that We may not be hurried into a contrary extreme. The Acceptance of General Washington has commanded the Admiration of all Men of Principle, A soul so social and public as his could not have been tranquil in Retirement in a bleeding Country bleeding around him. Those who were most delighted with the thought of his undisturbed Happiness in Retreat after a Life of Anxiety cannot but approve of his Resolution to take the field again with his fellow Citizens, and close his long Glories in Action Active Life, in Case his Country should be invaded.
I am happy if my Answer to the young Men of Augusta has your Approbation, and receive and return with Gratitude your kind Wishes for my Health and Happiness.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to James Gunn, 31 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Gunn, James

To the Inhabitants of the County of Glynn, in the State of Georgia
GentlemenQuincy October 31. 1798

Your Address of the 4th of September, has been transmitted to me, as you directed by your Committee, through a senator in Congress from Georgia, General James Gunn. Opinions So correct and feelings so honorable, as yours can never fail to add to my Satisfaction and encouragement, from whatever Part of the Union or portion of my fellow Citizens the People they may come: but especially when they are sent from the remotest Districts so remote and People so respect fellow Citizens so respectable. Independence is more prescious & important than Peace with any Government. But Independence of People who seem incapable at present of Speaking of Us without an Insult, or taking any measure concerning Us without an infamous Insinuation, is more important than ever.
John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Oliver Wolcott, Jr., 31 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Sir
Quincy Oct 31st 1798

I return you the commissions inclosed in yours of the 22d signed and desire you to fill the blanks with the names you report in favor of. I return you the letters of recommendation you sent me & send you a letter from Mr McDowel
I am &c

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Pseudonym: "A Ruined Merchant...", October 1798
From: Pseudonym: “A Ruined Merchant...”
To: Adams, John

President Adams
Oct. 1798

Myself and Family are ruined by the French. If you do not procure Satisfaction for my Losses when a Treaty is made with them I am undone for ever and you must be a Villain to your Country!!! Assassination shall be your Lot, if Restitution is lost to America thro’ your Means, or, if ever you agree to a Peace without it. The Subsistence of Thousands who have lost their all depends upon it!!!!!
A ruined Merchantalas! with 10 Children!!!!!Made Beggars by the French!


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 1 November 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir.
War Department 1 Novr. 1798

I recieved a letter yesterday from Major General Pinckney, in answer to mine of the 30th a copy of which is inclosed.
I have the honour to be Sir with the greatest respect and attachment / Your most obt. st.

James McHenry


Title: To John Adams from Francis Malbone, 1 November 1798
From: Malbone, Francis
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Newport Rhode Island 1st. Novr. 1798

Mr. John Alfred Hazard having informed me that he has made application for the office of Purser on board the United States Ship General Greene now fitting in this State; I take the liberty of recommending him as possessing the necessary qualifications to perform the functions of that office; he is a young man of a liberal education, is of one of the most respectable families among us, & of an unblemished reputation!
I have the honour to be with due consideration / Sir / Your most obedient & / very humble servant

Fras. Malbone


Title: To John Adams from Harrison Gray Otis, 3 November 1798
From: Otis, Harrison Gray
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Boston Novr 3d. 1798

Mr Horry who was presented to you in Philadelphia, came from newport principally with a view of paying his respects to you on the 30 October in Boston where he expected the honor of meeting you; and being disappointed he has remained in town, in the expectation that I would attend him to Quincy with the same view. This pleasurable duty I am expected by circumstances to postpone, and have asked of mr Horry the favor to be the bearer of the book which you were pleased to lend me sometime since and for which I beg leave to tender my thanks—
I have the honor to be / with great respect / Sir / Yr most obedt sert

H G Otis


Title: From John Adams to Timothy Pickering, 5 November 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

Sir
Quincy Nov 5th 1798

I return you all the parchments signed & pray you to fill the blanks as you proposed in your letter of the 27 Oct. I have recd also your other letter of the same date & thank you for the copies of Chauvets letter. I enclose a letter from Malborne recommending Dr Enoch Hazard to be a surgeon which I pray you to consider.
I am Sir your / most obedient

J Adams


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Pickering, 5 November 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Trenton Novr. 5. 1798.

I intended some time since to have returned an answer to the letter you did me the honor to send me of the date of Oct. 10. relative to the communications to be made to Congress at the opening of the approaching session; but delayed it, expecting leisure to mature my ideas on the subjects to be brought into view: but that leisure has not yet occurred; and therefore now beg leave to submit the heads only of what it may be proper to notice; engaging, however, to bring into some form what shall seem to me suitable to say upon them, to lay before you on your arrival at Philadelphia.
1. The most important point will be the state of our relations to France. Mr. Gerry’s transactions subsequent to the expulsion of his colleagues, I have supposed proper to be laid before Congress: because probably the public will expect it: because it would be inexpedient in the executive to withhold what the Opposition, in Congress and out, have affected to rest upon as the source of peace: and because instead of laying a foundation for peace, the negociation serves only to confirm the insincerity of the French Government.
2. The final settlement of the St. Croix boundary.
3. The commencement of running the boundary line between the territory of the United States and the Floridas; commissioners being regularly appointed & acting on the part of Spain as well as of the United States.
4. As intimately connected with the conduct of France, you will doubtless think it proper strongly to recommend a continuance of defensive measures: nothing else will save us from ultimate subjugation: while great and determined preparations while they would ensure us final victory, if attacked, will probably prevent a formal war; & perhaps, nay doubtless, induce that iniquitous government to cease their depredations, to prevent a declaration of war on our part.
I have the honor to be, / with great respect, / sir, your most obt. servant,

Timothy Pickering


Title: From John Adams to Francis Dana, 7 November 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Dana, Francis

Sir
Quincy Nov 7th 1798

I received the honor of your letter of the 3d. yesterday. Inclosed is a short answer to the grand jury. I know the hand writing of the address very well.
I went to E. Boston on Saturday to dine with you after spending two or three hours with Mr Gerry with whom I wished to converse a little more particularly concerning some things; but I was detained in Boston upon an indispensible piece of business longer than I expected & indeed untill the appearance of rain made it impracticable to pursue my plan at Cambridge. With great esteem & regard, I am / Sir your most obedient

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Ma., Grand Jury Middlesex County, 7 November 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Middlesex County, Ma., Grand Jury

To the Grand Jury impanelled at the Supreme Judicial Court for the County of Middlesex, in the State of Massachusetts October Term 1798
Gentlemen
Quincy November 7. 1798

 I thank you for this Address which has been transmitted to me by The Chief Justice of the State, according to your request. The sentiments expressed by you as your own and as those of your Fellow Citizens of the same County, do honor to the County of Middlesex. That County, whose Inhabitants were the first to make a military defence of their Rights, upon a former against unjust demands upon a former Occasion; could not be expected to be the last or behind the foremost upon the present occasion, when Pretensions are set up and demands made, without even the Color of the former.
While the inexpressible Advantages of a free elective Republick are duly appreciated by Us all, We should never forgett and We cannot too often repeat that they all depend upon the Purity & Independence of those Elections. Whenever Corruption or foreign Influence determines Elections, it will be found that the best Things when corrupted become the worst.
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Lincoln, 7 November 1798
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Boston Novr. 7th. 1798

When Mr. Shaw was the other day at my office he mentioned to Mr. Weld my assistant that he had been informed that my drafts had been refused at every bank in this town. I have not, nor have I had a right to draw, nor have I drawn, on any bank but that of the branch where as Collecter I lodge the public monies and draw them as the public service and my duty requires.—
My having, with General Jackson, inclosed paper for Genl. Knox, for which we have the most ample security, and a large proportion of it remaining unpaid must I think have given rise to the above report. This being altogether a private transaction it cannot in any event effect the public funds in my hands as Collector. There has not one penny been gone to pay any of the notes nor will any ever go from me for that purpose—Need I tell you Dear Sir that death would certainly be preferred to an action so base and unjust as it relates to the United States and my bondsmen Majrs. Russel decd. HY Hill JC Jones & C Gore.
General Knox is fast arranging his own Affairs and will, I trust, soon satisfy every Creditor and save a most ample fortune to him self.—
I lost the pleasure, I had promised my self, of seeing you the last week on my return home I should hope to enjoy it on Saturday but must return by water.—I expect however, during the coming winter to see you at headquarters. My best wishes attend you.
I am Dear Sir with the most perfect / consideration your obedient / servant

B Lincoln


Title: To John Adams from John Baptista Ashe, 9 November 1798
From: Ashe, John Baptista
To: Adams, John

Sir
Halifax No C: Novr. 9th. 1798

I have just now been inform’d of the death of Mr. Rowan, late Commissioner of Loans for this District, and of a desire of Captain Bassett Stith, to succeed him in that office—I therefore Sir, am induc’d, to take the liberty of of offering Captain Stith to your notice—and do with great confidence assure you Sir of the competency of Captain Stith as an accountant and whose respectability of Character, as a merchant and Gentleman, will do honor and give dignity to the office—hoping Sir, a favorable reception of this application in favor of Captain Stith, and your pardon for the freedom I take—and that you will accept my Sincere and best wishes for your health and happyness—I rest / Sir / Your Very Obedt / And Very Hble Servant
J. B. Ashe


Title: From John Adams to Nc., Grand Jury of Salisbury, 10 November 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Salisbury, Nc., Grand Jury of

To the Grand Jury for the District of Salisbury in the State of North CarolinaGentlemen
Quincy Nov. 10. 1798

I thank you for an Address equally respectfull and affectionate, & for your generous approbation of my Administration. I congratulate you on the remarkable Felicity of your District, is so on the entire an Unanimity of political sentiment and opinion, which prevails in your District, a felicity as prescious as it is remarkable. Our Fellow Citizens throughout the Union, agree in general, however very well with you, in thinking, that the most solid & important Interests of the United States would be injured, by purchasing Wealth, Ease or personal safety at the Expence of their Dignity and Honor; and that the Loss of national Character ought to be dreaded as an irreparable Misfortune.
The Prayers of my Fellow Citizens to the Supreme Ruler, in my behalf, are always heard with the most lively sensibility, and can be answered only by mine for their best Interests.
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from James Vincent Ball, 10 November 1798
From: Ball, James Vincent
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Knox County Tennessee 10th Novr. 1798

Permit me to address you on a subject which I hope will be viewed by you as of sufficient importance to authorize it—As rank is an object with every military character, we come into the army with the prospect of promotion in view, and thereby are prompted to acquire an ample Knowledge of the several duty’s annexed to the different grades—When once this prospect is distroyed, and the precedent of promoting a Junior Officer over a senior one established in the army, the horrid effects of discontentment in a situation above which there is but little prospect of rising, will discover itself in so eminent a degree, that the Officer whos vigilance and promptness in duty, merits his countrys esteem, will at once become indolent and regardless of his situation—
I hope your excellency will not deem me too presuming, when I state to you the following facts—On the 1st of May 95, I was appointed a Cornet in this service—and on the 19th of October following I find from a list of promotions forwarded from the war office, that I was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant—On the 31st of October 96, Lieut. Webb then captain in the same Corps with me was disbanded. and on the 10th. of June 97 he was appointed to and accepted of a Lieutenancy in the Dragoons—Since which I have seen from under his hand that the Secretary of War has given him assurances that he shall fill the first vacancy in the Corps—I have also been told by Ensign Salmond of the 4th. U.S. regt., that in a conversation which he had with Mr. McHenry, promoting Lieut. Webb to the first vacancy was suggested by the Secretary on the principle of his having once been a Captain—This your excellency will at once see the impropriety of, as Lieut. Webb has forfeited all pretentions which his former Commission might have given him to rank, by accepting a grade lower—Neither is this the only ground on which I claim the right of promotion, but that Lieutenant Webb was a citizen from the 31st. of October 96, untill the 10th of June 1797, during which time I was Lieut. with the Army—
Another circumstance which I cannot avoid stating to you is, that altho in Octr. 95 I was promoted to my present rank, I have never received a scrip from the War Department respecting it, notwithstanding I have in two different letters solicited the secretary’s attention to it, without having received an answer to either of them—
This together with the above reports induces me to think that without a fair and timely statement to you (to whom we look up with confidence as the guardian of our rights) I might be materially injured—Your excellency will I hope, excuse the liberty I have taken when I observe that having failed in my several applications to the Secretary of War, I know no other mode of obtaining my Commission, than by applying to the one from whom I hope to have the honor of receiving it—
With every sentiment of sincere respect, / I have the honor to be / Your Mst. Obt. Huml. Servt.

Jas. V. BallLt: Dragoons


Title: To John Adams from Cyrus Griffin, 10 November 1798
From: Griffin, Cyrus
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Wmsburg Novembr. 10th. 1798.

This being the first instance of capture and trial in my Court under the late Acts of Congress, I take the liberty to inform you that the Ship Niger, brought into this District by Capt. Nicholson of the Constitution, after long and very able arguments by the best Lawyers of this Country, was decreed by me to be restored to the Respondents, together with the ordinary Costs of defence.—
It appeared to the Court from the shipping papers, from the Bills of lading, from the commissions or letters of Mark, from depositions, & other documents, together with the British Acts of Parliament authorising the King to dispense with certain regulations of the Navigation Act, & naturalising foreign Seamen in the service of that Country, that the Ship could not be considered as a French Vessel, and therefore not subject to condemnation as a Prize in the meaning of those Laws.
No damages were decreed, because Sir, in my opinion there was reasonable cause of seisure and detention; such as, the Crew consisting principally of Frenchmen & Spaniards; two of the Officers in French uniform; their unwillingness to obey the Lieutenant of the Constitution, when boarded; the smallness of the cargo; the log Book in the French Language; the want of shipping articles for Seamen; the general conduct of the Commander; not bringing all the papers on board the Constitution when required; and some other circumstances—but from this latter part of the Decree the Respondents have thought proper to appeal.
May I take the freedom, illustrious Sir, to mention that if consistent with the maxims of your wise Administration, I could wish most fervently to change my Situation upon the Bench, and would willingly take some other respectable employment.—Indeed, Sir, I am the very oldest civil Officer under the general Government, that is, I have served more years than any other man, from early in the year 1778 to the present period, and sometimes in very high Stations, at the expence of all the property I possessed; and now with a large family & nothing but a small Salary to maintain them; and even one fourth of that Salary at least I am obliged to spend in Public Houses & other charges necessarily attending the duties of my Office at the stated & special Courts, the business of the District being probably more than any three Courts in the Union, & the Supreme Judges tell me, that the business of the Circuit Court for Virginia is considerably more than all the Union together. Nor have I omitted a single Court since my return to this Country from the Seat of Government at New York; no man can be more attentive to the requisites of his Station, and surely no person can be more federal, or a more strenuous advocate for the Administration—& though at first view it seems to bear a little hard, and is certainly a great discouragement for men to be active and faithful in discharging their respective duties if they are always to remain as they set out—and surely a laudable ambition to be promoted, & a parental anxiety about the better welfare of a man’s family can never be considered as reprehensible in a virtuous Republic like ours; yet Sir I am very ready to confess that in point of Law Talents, if talents are the only criterion, that I am not equal to many other Gentlemen, a Marshall or a Washington for instance, tho’ my Education has been a more systematical one; and thus knowing my inferiority in this respect whatever appointments you may think proper to make will always be highly satisfactory to me, & to every good federal Character—yet this consideration of diffidence in my Law talents will operate as an additional reason to pray you, Sir, for a change of my position if convenient & consistent with your arrangements in future.
But if not, then may I beg you to notice the Son of an Officer so old as myself upon the Civil list; John Griffin; a young man of excellent genius, the best education, well acquainted with foreign Languages, & no youth more federal—could he go in some inferior Diplomatic character abroad we should owe to you infinite obligations; or if that should be impracticable, then perhaps a military Commission in the permanent Army it might not be inconvenient to give him.
As I shall not have the presumption in this way again to encroach upon the valuable time of your Excellency, I hope to stand acquitted in your correct opinion: and that with the utmost sincerity I may pray that you long preside over the Councils of this Country; & that your private happiness may still continue to bless you, as so aptly corresponding with your Public reputation & exertions; I am Sir / with profound respect & consideration / Your most obedient Servant

Cyrus Griffin


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 19 November 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir.
War Department Philadelphia. 19 Novr. 1798

There is a very great desire among a number of citizens & gentlemen composing the volunteer companies & City militia, to know as near as may be the day and hour at which you may be expected to arrive here. As I think it would not be right to disappoint their laudable zeal—I pray you to be so obliging as to drop me a line from New York to enable me to satisfy their inquiries, and afford them an oppertunity of giving a proof of their attachment to your person.
With sincere respect I have the honour to be D Sir / Your obt
James McHenry


Title: To John Adams from Stephen Peabody, 23 November 1798
From: Peabody, Stephen
To: Adams, John

Hond. Sir
Atkinson Novr. 23d. 1798

My Son who is now upon a visit with me, from the district of Maine, informs me that they have been, and are, infested with Antifederalism, and characters who are exerting themselves, that all places of profit, or honor should be filled with Jacobins.—He has, as far as his influence extends, opposed the party and the Spirit, and wishes that such characters might not be promoted in the civil or military departments. He is now engaged in a small trade; but has ever been desirous to take an active part in the military line, in the defence of his country: Whether he is qualified or not, I am not a Judge; but he has been encouraged to ask for a Major’s commission, if there be room, and he can be recommended to the proper authority who makes the appointments.
He would feel grateful for your interposition in his favor, if you think he would be likely to do service for the public; and additional obligations would be lain upon me.
Mrs. Peabody returned in Safety from Quincy, Saturday evening after you left that place. She left Mrs. Adams in better health than she was the first of the week; Saw Mrs. Foster in her own house in Boston; and appeared pleased with her Journey.—She joins me in presenting our best regards to you Sir, and her Son William S Shaw—
With defference, I am / Hond. Sir / Your most obedient / humble Sert.

            Stephen Peabody

PS–The Snow here is at least one foot & 1/2  deep on a level—


Title: To John Adams from Elbridge Gerry, 24 November 1798
From: Gerry, Elbridge
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Boston 24th Novr 1798

Having transmitted to Mr Pickering, additional documents, numbered from 36 to 50 inclusively, you will probably peruse them.
The first, contained a copy of a motion, I made to the other Envoys; to put an end, as early as the 21st of October 1797, to the disgraceful communications of X & Y. at the bottom of the original, is a note in the handwriting of General Pinckney, which shews, that it was intended to have been delivered on that day; & which is inserted in my letter to the Secretary, accompanying these documents.—the last number, is a copy of a Letter from Mr Bourne, Consul at Amsterdam; shewing the falsity of a publication, of his friend in this state, respecting intelligence said to have come from me. and the other numbers contain the messages, notes, & letter, between Mr Tallyrand & myself, respecting my application for passports &c for the Voyage home.
By this days post, I send to Mr Pickering the original letters, & notes, written to me by the french minister; of which copies had been enclosed by me to the former. the letters are numbered in my dispatches, 3, 6, 8, 11, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, & 47. the notes 43, 44, & 46. the Secretary did not request the originals, before the 7th instant. his letter I recd on the 15th, & immediately employed a young gentleman, to take copies of them, in my house; in order to be authenticated by a notary. this step was necessary, to guard against accidents.
The Secretary has not rectified the errors; pointed out in a letter which I had the honor to write you; in his answer to the address of Prince Edward County, I think was, of Virginia.
I have the honor to be, Dr Sir, / with perfect respect & attachment / your most obedt servt

E Gerry


Title: To John Adams from James McHenry, 25 November 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Adams, John

Sir.
War Department 25 Nov. 1798

It must be, well know to you, that the pressure of business, upon me, at Trenton, which could not be neglected; the derangements consequent upon the removal of the office, to Philadelphia; the necessity, of making some arrangements, for my family, in the first moments of their return; and the almost constant attention, I have been obliged to give, to the objects, refered to the general officers, since their arrival here, will apologize, for my not having submitted to you, my ideas, on the points, you were pleased to refer, to the heads of departments.
I shall now submit, my views of the subjects of communication, proper to be laid before Congress, in conformity with, your reiterated request; altho, at the same time, I must beg you, to consider, what I shall say, as the result, of a too hurried reflexion, parts of which I might modify, or omit, upon more mature deliberation.
In considering these subjects, I take the following positions, for granted: That France aims, at universal dominion; that the vices of her government, and nature of her system, render war indispensable to her; that it is a maxim, in her policy, to prepare the Country, she designs to subdue by previous divisions, among its citizens, before she strikes it; and that she really intends, at a fit moment, to bring the United States, or a part of them, by her arms, added to her intrigues, into the same state of vassalage, and subjection, to her will, that she has many of the governments of Europe. The history, of the proceedings, of the successive rulers of France, from the first unfoldings, of her revolution, down to the present moment, give, at least, to these positions, an appearance of the greatest probability,  strengthened by the habits of thinking for a long course of time in that Country. With, then, such a certainty, before us, of the designs of France, will it not be expedient, that the President, should recommend to Congress, in his speech, an immediate declaration of war, against that nation?
If an immediate declaration of war, is indispensable, to the general interests, and welfare, of the union, it is the duty, of the President, to recommend the measure: but, if this interest, and welfare, can be as well promoted, on the part of the President, by another mode of procedure; and the minds of the people, thereby better disposed, to receive a declaration of war, from Congress, in the course of the ensuing session, the latter would seem, to be the most advisable, and expedient, for the President to pursue.
It is to be noticed, in determining upon this course, that we have two enemies, which call for pointed attention; a faction within the country, constantly upon the watch, and ready, to seize upon every act, of the Executive, which may be converted, into an engine to disaffect, the people, to the government; and the skill, of the French rulers, as perseveringly exerted, to support this faction; and as it respects the present question, to throw the blame of a rupture,  upon the Executive. Thus, while government the Executive, is engaged in a game of skill, with the Directory, it is incumbent,  to take such a position, that the faction, can derive no advantage, from seeing the cards, we play with.
There is still, another description of men, who are by no means, to be viewed in the light of enemies, to the government; but who, from not being sufficiently impressed, with the wicked designs, of the Directory, dread an actual state of war. These men, tho’ gradually progressing, to a proper point of beleif, would be less shocked, by a declaration of war coming in the spontaniously from Congress than by a recommendation of war by the President.
In a word, the Speech should furnish materials, to Congress, to satisfy them, of the necessity or propriety of a declaration of war, and at the same time, be so guarded, and calculated, as to counteract, the policy of France, and the faction, on this delicate point.
This would dictate, some such course, as the following.
To state to Congress, that after the most profound attention, to the past and recent conduct, of the directory, nothing had appeared to induce you to consider that they had concluded, on any radical change, in their system towards this Country—to exhibit, some of the most prominent, and recent facts, respecting their decrees, and treatment, of our envoys, leaving and refering, for a more particular detail, of the subject, to a report from the Secretary of State. That in this situation, of things, you trust Congress, will concur in opinion with you, that it is wise, and proper, to deliberate, seriously, and maturely, on the state of the nation, and to give all possible vigour, and efficacy, to our measures of defence, particularly as they respect, the military, and naval establishments, and the finances of the Country. That you should abide, by your determination, not to send, another minister to France, without assurances, that he will be received, respected and honoured, as the representative, of a great powerful and independent nation.
But as something further may be expedient on this subject, it is only suggested, whether it might not be proper to add, as conciliatory, with certain minds, and taking a position, which casts upon France, the renewal, of negotiation upon proper principles, that you will not refuse, to receive a minister, and to meet negotiation, with sincerity, and in a spirit, of equity, and moderation, as soon, as a similar spirit, shall be manifested, upon the part of France.
It may be proper also to mention, in your speech—
“That various circumstances have concurred, to delay the execution of the law, for augmenting the military establishment; among these the desire of obtaining, the best materials, towards a good selection of officers. That as this object will soon now be, speedily accomplished, it is confided, that the organization, and raising of the troops, will proceed, without obstacle, and with effect”
“That, it is satisfactory, to mention to Congress, that during the recess, official accounts, have been received, from the Missisippi, announcing, that the two posts, of Walnut Hill, & Natchez, on the east bank of that river, were evacuated, by the Spanish Garrisons, the one, on the night of the 23d, and the other, on the night of the 29th, of March ulto. That, altho’ no report, has yet been made, to the Secretary of war, of the evacuation, of the Spanish post, at the Tombigbee, within our territory, the running of the boundary line, between the possessions of Spain, and the United States, has been commenced, and it is understood, progress made in the work.”
I submit also to your consideration, and not as an idea, which I have matured, whether it will not be expedient, to suggest, that the designs of France, on Louisiana, and the Floridas, seem to render it proper, that a subject so important, should attract, their peculiar, and serious deliberation.
When making the latter suggestion, I contemplate, that it would be a desirable object, to obtain, from congress, the investment, of such full powers, in the President (in case they do not declare war) as would enable him, to take effectual measures, to counteract, or render, the designs of France, to possess themselves of Louisiana, and the Floridas, as little injurious as possible to the United States, in case of their success, as, by taking an early possession of New Orleans only, and holding it, during the war, for the Spaniards, and until, a treaty could be entered into with Spain for the greater security of our frontiers, bordering on her possessions.
It may be observed, that such a measure, would effectually obviate, French intrigues, in Kentucky and the North Western, & Missisippi, territories; prevent a seperation of that Country, from the union and enable us, to open, new source of commerce to our citizens.
With the greatest respect, I have the honour to be, Sir / Your most ob & hbl. Str

James McHenry.


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 25 November 1798
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
Navy Department 25. November 1798

In obedience to your command, I have endeavoured to give to the important question you were pleased to suggest—Whether it would be proper for the President to recommend, in his speech to Congress, a declaration of War against France, all the consideration permitted by the shortness of time, & my own scanty means,—the result, I will now do myself the honor to lay before you.
Knowing that this Country was actually labouring under all the disadvantages of open War with France; without possessing those advantages resulting from a declared State of War, in detecting & suppressing treasonable machinations favorable to, & too probably, dictated by France the Enemy, in our own Country—or in doing them all the mischief in our power out of it: Believing War with France, in preferrence to any thing short of honorable Peace, which I  is only to be obtained by putting ourselves in a situation to command the observance of it, to be the true Interest of the Country;—Believing War would effectually unite the People to their Government, and make those states which have heretofore shewn least respect for the Union, feel their dependence on it, for safety & protection:—and also believing it be generally, if not universally, the wisest policy to arrive at proponents, by short, open, & direct means—my first impression was, that it would be adviseable, that the President should come to the point at once with Congress, and recommend in his speech, an open Declaration of War, against a nation, meritting from this Country & from the whole Civilized World, a declaration of a War of extermination.
But weighing some of the reasons urged last evening:—considering that the power of making War, being in Congress, the consequence of a refusal on their part, to declare it, after being advised by the President (none of whose recommendations can be disregarded without injury to the Government) might be to give countenance to the opinion, industriously inculcated in this Country by the Enemies to Government & partisans of France, & affected to be believed in that Country—that the Executive & the Country possessed different views & sought different objects—& might even tend to detract from the sincerity of those efforts which have been made to preserve Peace:—Considering too, that the end may be attained by means which will certainly secure to the President, the approbation of a still greater majority of the thinking People of the Country, I am now rather disposed to retract my first opinion—and to advise that instead of a direct recommendation to Congress to declare War, something like the following course.
That it should be represented to Congress, that the Executive had no reason to calculate, that those hostile measures of France, which first made it necessary to arm to resist the invasion of our rights & property, would be discontinued—that firm to the declaration already made, you would never send humiliate this Country, by sending another Minister to France, until satisfactory assurances were given, that he would be received and honored as the Representative of a Free, Independent & powerful Nation—Yet you would seize with avidity & pursue with sincerity any safe and honorable means, should any such occur, to restore harmony between the two Countries, without ever prostituting the dignity, or sacrificing the Interest, of our own.—But that desireable as this event might be, there did not appear the least ground to expect it could be obtained, but by a steady adherence to, and the further prosecution of, the system of defence begun at the last Session, & from which such salutary effects had already been experienced by the Agricultural & Commercial parts of the Community.—That if upon a full, & mature view of the state of the Nation, Congress should think it inexpedient to exercise their Constitutional right of declaring War, for which ample provocation had been given, the safety of the Country at least required, that decisive measures should be adopted, to repress treasonable machinations of the partisans of France, within the limits of the United States, & of our own Citizens, out of those limits in order that the Country might no longer be exposed to the novel & hazardous situation of experiencing all the disadvantages—& possessing none of the advantages of an actual state of War.—that the power of the Public & private armed ships to make captures, should be enlarged—that the Navy should be increased &ca. &ca &ca
I have the honor to be / with the highest respect & / esteem sir Yr. most obed. / servt.

Ben Stoddert