Title: From John Adams to Mr. & Mrs. Baily, 1 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: Baily, Mr. & Mrs.

Jan 1. 1801

The President of the United States, & Mrs Adams requests the Pleasure of Mr & Mrs. Baily’s Company to Dine, on thursday next, at 4 o’Clock.
An answer is requested.


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Dexter, 2 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: Dexter, Samuel

Sir
Washington Jan 2d 1800 1801

Having just received your letter, accepting the office of Secretary of the Treasury, it is necessary that I should authorize & request you, as I do by this letter, to continue to execute all the functions of Secretary of War, untill further arrangements are made in that office.


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 2 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
United States Jan 2 1801.

I nominate John Stuart Kerr Esqr. a native of Philadelphia, now resident in the Phillippine Islands to be Consul of the United States for the city and island of Manilla in the dominion of the king of Spain
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from John Jay, 2 January 1801
From: Jay, John
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir,
Albany 2 Jany 1801

I have been honored with your Letter of the 19th. ult: informing me that I had been nominated to fill the office of Chief Justice of the united States; and Yesterday I recd. the Commission—this nomination so strongly manifests your Esteem, that it affords me particular Satisfaction—
Such was the Temper of the Times, that the Act to establish the judicial courts of the U.S., was in some Respects more accommodated to certain Prejudices and Sensibilities, than to the great and obvious Principles of sound Policy—Expectations were nevertheless entertained that it would be amended, as the public mind became more composed and better informed: but those Expectations have not been realized; nor have we hitherto seen convincing Indications of a Disposition in Congress to realize them. On the contrary, the Efforts repeatedly made to place the judicial Departmt. on a proper Footing, have proved fruitless—
I left the Bench perfectly convinced that under a System so defective, it would not obtain the Energy weight and Dignity which are essential to its affording due support to the national Governmt.; nor acquire the public Confidence and Respect, which, as the last Resort of the Justice of the Nation, it should possess. Hence I am induced to doubt both the Propriety and Expediency of my returning to the Bench under the present System, especially as it would give some Countenance to the neglect and Indifference with which the opinions & Remonstrances of the Judges on this important subject have been treated—
Altho’ I wish and am prepared to be and remain in Retirement, yet I have carefully considered what is my Duty, and ought to be my conduct on this unexpected and interesting occasion. I find that, independent of other Considerations, the State of my Health removes every Doubt—it being clearly and decidedly incompetent to the Fatigues incident to the office—
accept my warmest Acknowledgments for the Honor you have done me, and permit me to assure you of the Respect Esteem & Regard with which I am / Dear Sir / your faithful Friend & Servt.
John Jay


Title: To John Adams from James Hillhouse, 3 January 1801
From: Hillhouse, James
To: Adams, John

Jany. 3d. 1801—

Mr. Hillhouse presents his respects to The President of the United States, and not having it in his power, at this time, to wait on him personally, to avoind any inconvenience by delay, takes the liberty of sending the enclosed letter, which fully explains the Wishes of the Writer, who is well known to the President, and whose application cannot be enforced by any thing Mr. Hillhouse could say on the Subject—


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Blodget, 5 January 1801
From: Blodget, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir
City of Washington 5th Jany 1801.

Since I had the honor to address you on the subject of a nomination for the vacancy in the Board of Commissioners for the City of Washington, I have seen Mr Stoddart who is one of the largest proprietors  for of Lots at the West end of the City. I mentiond the Letters respecting Mr Cranch & received his request to make use of his name to any of the other proprietors, & also to you, accompanied with his best wishes for the success of a gentleman for whom he express’d a very great regard, & added that “he believed no one would be more agreeable to the proprietors in general, than Mr. Cranch”— I am with great respect / your most obedt Servant

Saml Blodget.


Title: To John Adams from William Tudor, Sr., 9 January 1801
From: Tudor, William, Sr.
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Boston 9th. Jany. 1801

I took immediate Care to hand the public Papers, as authenticated by Mr. Otis, to the Printers of the Commercial Gazette, & shall lodge the Certificate with the Files of the historical Society. I could not avoid so apt an Occasion of making a few prefatory Observations, designed more for the Republicans of the Southern States, than our New England Citizens. A vast Majority of whom undoubtedly would have rejoiced in the Prevalence of the federal Ticket. On the Morning of the Election Mr. Gerry sent me a Letter – dated the 4th. of November at Charlestown. This to me was full Evidence that the Votes of S.C. would be, in toto, against Us. I instantly communicated this to Col. Dawes, Mr. Wild, & Mr. Robins, with the latter of whom I left the letters and beg’d he would appreciate it at the Meeting of the Electors. However, the Infatuation, of Dawes with Respect to the Atheism of Mr. J. and the Timidity of Robins as to the Opinion of the Hamiltonians, defeated my Efforts and Mr. P. had the Honour of receiving a unanimous Vote.
Your Observations of the Advantages attending Burr’s Parentage, has accounted to with Me for the strange Praise that has been bestowed upon him in the two last Centinels. Is it true that Hamilton & Burr are on an easy and friendly Footing? I am perfectly satisfied that the invenomed few would prefer him, after the Loss of Pinckney, to both A. & J.
I dined yesterday in Company with several Merchants, who were complained complaining of the Depredations of the British Cruisers on our Commerce, & especially on our Spanish Trade – when Mr. William Paine, the Brother in Law of Mr Gore, asserted that not a single Remonstrance had ever been made to the British Administration on this Subject. That during the Controversy relative to the 6th. Article of the B. Treaty no Instructions had been sent Mr. King who might & could easily have relieved the Difficulty—And that to his certain Knowlege, being on the spot, that Minister had received no Communications from the Administration his own Government for more than six Months at a Time when so many irritating Causes made it peculiarly necessary. By such Language as this, do the small Party palliate their Dereliction of the public Cause as connected with your Administration.
Although I admit the Importance of the Maxim that in no Period ought we to despair of the Commonwealth, I must confess that I dread the Effect of those political Evils that surround Us, especially of that DisUnion which I now hold as inevitable, in every sense that can be annexed to Disunion.
I hope that Ennui you anticipate will be prevented by your guarding the American Interest & Character—as their Ambassador, either at London or Paris. The Times require such a Man, at such Courts. But whatever may be your future station; I hope it will still admit me to share a Friendship, which in my humble one, is my Pride & Boast

W. T.


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 13 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
United States Jan. 13th 1800 1801

I nominate Marmaduke Wait of Vermont Thomas W. Hooper of Boston & Presley N. O. Bannon of Virginia to be second Lieutenants in the marine corps.

John Adams


Title: From John Adams to United States Congress, 16 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: United States Congress

Gentlemen of the Senate and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives
United States Jan 16 1801.

I now  Houses of Congress  to law, my annual account of the application of Grants for the contingent charges of government for the year one thousand eight hundred.

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from James F. Armstrong, 16 January 1801
From: Armstrong, James F.
To: Adams, John

To the President of the United States.–Sir,
Trenton Jan’ry 16. 1801.

The pressure of straitned circumstances and the impractibility of performing those parts of ministerial duty which expose to the weather and require active exertion will be my apology for again troubling your Excellency by application for some place in your power to grant.—If the Mint Department Should be removed to the Seat of Government it is most probable there will be some vacancies in it.—I take the liberty to bring this to the mind of your Excellency, having once made application for a place in that Department.—My hopes indeed have had but little to keep them alive—but while the Man of my wishes administered the Government; they were not extinct.—Be this effort successful or not my prayers accompany you in publick & in private—with the highest respect / I am / Your Excellencys / most obedient & / most humble servant

James F. Armstrong


Title: From John Adams to United States Congress, 17 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: United States Congress

Gentlemen of the Senate and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives
United States January 17. 1801

I have received from Elias Boudinot Esq Director of the mint of the United States a Report of the Second of January instant, representing the State of it, together with an Abstract of the Coins Struck at the mint, from the first of January to the thirty first of December 1800: an Abstract of the Expenditures of the Mint, from the 1st of January to the 31. of December 1800 inclusive: a Statement of Gain on Copper coined at the Mint from the 1st of January to the 31 of December 1800 inclusive: and a Certificate from Joseph Richardson Assayer of the Mint, ascertaining the Value of Spanish milled Dubloons, in proportion to the Gold Coins of the United States to be no more than 84 Cents and 424/500 parts of a Cent for one pennyweight or 28 Grains and 24256/84848 parts of a grain to one dollar;—These Papers I transmit to Congress for their Consideration

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Richard Stockton, 17 January 1801
From: Stockton, Richard
To: Adams, John

To the President of the United States—
Princeton Jany 17th. 1801

The probable success of the Judiciary bill now before Congress, and the short time that will remain to select proper Characters to be appointed Judges thereto it be enacted into a Law, induces me take the liberty respectfully to mention to the President of the United States the name of William Griffith Esqr. of Burlington as a Candidate for the office of a Circuit Judge. The President is in some measure acquainted with the character of this Gentleman, and will readily recognize in him the Author of Eumenes a pamphlet on the subject of the New Jersey consitution, which I did myself the honor of presenting to the President while he was at Trenton—He is also the Author of the Burlington County address on the subject of the election of President, and of the address of the federal Republicans of this State published in the name of a Committee of the federal meeting at the State House in Trenton—These performances furnish materials by which his general talents may be known. I can assure you Sir that his reputation as a Lawyer is such as might be expected of the writer of these Essays. He was regularly bred to the profession—has been engaged in full practice for twelve years last past, and is now at the head of the profession. His private deportment has ever been pure & amiable—His morals and integrity an such as should be required of those who approach the seat of Justice. I Can with truth say that in my opinion his pretensions are as good as those of any man in the State without any exception. It will give pleasure to the most substantial friends of your Administration if he Should be appointed. To those who under one name or an other have perpetually opposed the Government, and calumniated its Administration from its adoption to the present time it will be the cause of sorrow—for they know and have severely felt the weight of his talents and Character. Your public consent Sir has fully evinced that you never dreaded the frowns, nor courted the smiles of such Men.
I beg your Excellency will have the goodness to excuse the freedom of this personal application and believe me / with profound respect and / veneration Sir / Your obt: sert

Rd Stockton


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Stoddert, 19 January 1801
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Sir
19. January 1801.

The bad weather prevented my doing myself the honor of calling this morning, to mention, at the request of some Members of Congress—that the Judiciary bill would be taken up in the House of Representatives tomorrow—& be passed upon.
As the bill proposes a reduction of the Judges to five—and as there are already five Judges in commission, it is suggested that there might be more difficulty in appointing a chief Justice without taking him from the present Judges, after the passage of this bill even by one Branch of the Legistature, than before. I have the honor to be / with the highest Respect / & esteem sir Yr most / Obed. Servt

Ben. Stoddert.


Title: To John Adams from Lucius Horatio Stockton, 20 January 1801
From: Stockton, Lucius Horatio
To: Adams, John

Sir
Whitehill Burlington County N Jersey: January 20th. 1801

I have been informed that You have conferred upon me the very unexpected, and unsolicited honour of nominating me as Secretary at war of the United States. I beg Your Excellency to be assured that I am deeply affected with this very flattering mark of confidence. The afflicting necessity by which I am obliged to pay the last sad offices of duty to an honoured and only Surviving parent languishing at this place with a Sickness which we fear will prove fatal to her life, forbids me from entering into a minute detail of the many cogent reasons which compel me to decline the acceptance of this distinguished indication of your approbation—I have the honour to be with the highest sentiments of respect very sincerely—Your friend and most obedient servant,

Lucius Horatio Stockton


Title: To John Adams from Elias Boudinot, 20 January 1801
From: Boudinot, Elias
To: Adams, John

privateDear SirPhiladelphia Jany 20th 1801
Being just returned from New Jersey, will you excuse the liberty I take in mentioning to you, that I found the Gentn. of the Law there, are exceedingly anxious, relative to a report that is prevailing, that the Office of Chief Justice of the united States may possibly be filled by our present Chief Magistrate after the month of march next—I am authorized to say, that it would give them the highest pleasure, and raise their drooping confidence in the future government of the united States—This being an entirely independent Office, and not subject to the changes incident to the other offices of Government, might not be unworthy of the attention of one who had previously filled the presidential Chair—This hope is on condition that the new Judiciary Bill, shall change the present itinary state of that important Office, by rendering it stationary & of course more respectable. I have taken the liberty barely to hint this, as the sincere wishes of the Gentlemen of the Bar in New Jersey
In reading the proposed Judiciary Bill, before Congress, I observe that it is intended to have a number of Judges in each district of a State—If this should be the Case, will you excuse my mentioning my brother Elisha Boudinot now one of the Judges of the Supream Court of New Jersey, and William Griffith Esqr of Burlington one of the Council of the sd. Court, as proper Candidates for those Offices, either of whom I will venture to assure you, would give general Satisfaction to that State—I mean to the friends of the present Government there—
I have been also requested to mention for the same purpose in the State of New York, Samuel Bayard Esqr. of New Rochelle in that State—He was regularly bred to the Law and practiced in this State a few years, and then went to England as our Agent for American Claims, in which service he gained considerable knowledge of the practice of the civil Law Courts—He has had a liberal education & is a master of the french language—He is at present one of the Masters in Chancery for New York & a Judge of the Common Pleas—
I shall write a public letter to this purport, to the Secretary of State, and have only to add an apology for the freedom of this letter—
Mrs. Boudinot & Mrs. Bradford write with me in the most respectful Compliments to Mrs. Adams, and they hope she will do them the honor of spending a few days with them on her passage thro this City, as they have a Bed, that cannot be more agreeably occupied—They do not forget our little friend, whom they wish Mrs. Adams to kiss for them—
I have the honor to with great Respect & Esteem / Dr Sir Your very obedt. & Hble Servt
Elias Boudinot


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 21 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
United States Jan. 21 1801.

In compliance with your request, signified in your resolution of the twentieth day of this month, I transmit you a report, made to me, by the Secretary of State, on the same day; a letter of our late envoy to him of the fourth of October last, an extract of a letter from our minister plenipotentiary in London to him of the 22d of November last, and an extract of another letter from the Minister to the Secretary of the thirty first of October last.
The reasoning in the letter of our late envoys to France is so fully supported by the writers on the law of nations, particularly by Vattell, as well as by his great masters Grotius and Puffendorf, that nothing is left to be desired to settle the point, that if there be a collision between two treaties, made with two different powers, the more ancient has the advantage, for no engagement contrary to it can be entered into in the treaty, afterwards made, and if this last be found, in any case, incompatible with the more ancient one, its execution is considered as impossible, because, the person promising, had not the power of acting, contrary to his antecedent engagement. Although our right is very clear to negotiate treaties according to our own ideas of right and justice, honor and good faith, yet it must always be a satisfaction to know, that the judgment of other nations, with whom we have connection, coincide with ours, & that we have no reason to apprehend, that any disagreeable questions and discussions are likely to arise. The letters from Mr. King will therefore be read by the Senate, with particular satisfaction.
The inconveniences to public officers and the mischiefs to the public, arising from the publication of the dispatches of ministers abroad are so numerous, & so obvious, that I request of the Senate, that these papers, especially the letters from Mr King be considered in close confidence

John Adams.


Title: To John Adams from Joseph Ward, 22 January 1801
From: Ward, Joseph
To: Adams, John

Most Respected Sir
Newton January 22, 1801.

Common Minds it is said, are governed more by feeling, than by sentiment; (my only apology for writing) late events are of nature to make deep impressions on minds that saw & acted in Revolution days.
To witness pens, as well as tongues, “set on fire of hell,” to remove the Father of his Country from his parental Office, – to see mock patriots, learned cheats, & weak rogues, mingling their lies & leading an host of dupes to retail them in every street & corner, – to trample down merit honour and patriotism, – clouds the morning of the new century.—
That the successful efforts of a whole life, arduous as dangerous, through the untried scenes of a mighty Revolution, from dependence, to Empire—should so lightly touch the springs of reason, or gratitude, as that talents in embryo & merit unborn, could assume the reins of supreme rule—sickens the mind, and dims the regions of hope. Events so unworthy the national character, are ominous of its future destiny.
The last hope of the good, is, that Providence may “educe good from evil”—Some modern politicians seem to have reduced it to a system to “do evil, that good may might come”—
I would, if possible, still hope, that the collected experience & wisdom of thousands of years, which you have bequeathed to the people of America in your volumes, may be more read, and light them down the path of time, teach them the beauty of “Liberty, with Order,” a “Government of Laws, & not of men;” —and continue to illume the road of life, until its rays mingle, with millennium beams.—While your Presidency stands, like a Colossus on two Centuries, its maxims may instruct so long as freedom and science are objects of pursuit; & be a guiding Star in the political sky.
Pardon me, Sir, if I have sometimes feared that your long & arduous & successful labours for the public welfare, meeting with so many ill returns, for the good you have done,—might cause some depression of spirits—and wound the nice organs of health, at a period of life, when the firmest natures want cordials, rather than stings; catholicans, not poisons.—
I know Sir, “a good man is satisfied from himself,” and this must be your cordial—But this, ought not to satisfy the people, who have received the benefits; —they have something to do besides receiving benefits;—whether they will make a proper use of them, time will decide.—Be future events as they may, you Sir, will share with all the friends to virtue, in the hope that when the evil insects of a day have buzzed their hour & are no more, your labours to diffuse the pure principles of good government, may be to the future rulers of America as “a light to their feet & a lamp to their path,” while ages on ages expire.—Then, and not till then, may receive a full reward for consuming your days for the welfare of millions —when your triumphal Arch shall be erected in Eternity.—
Until then, may Heaven encircle you with His smiles and sweeten your existence with every felicity.
I am Sir / with every sentiment of Respect / your most Obedient Servant

Joseph Ward


Title: From John Adams to George Churchman, 24 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: Churchman, George,Lindley, Jacob

Friends
Washington January 24, 1801

I have received your Letter of the 17 of the 1. Mo. and thank you for communicating the Letter to me, of our friend Warner Mifflin. I have read both with pleasure, because I believe they proceeded from a Sense of Duty and a principle of Benevolence.
Although I have never Sought popularity by any animated Speeches or inflammatory publications against the Slavery of the Blacks, my opinion against it has always been known, and my practice has been so conformable to my Sentiment that I have always employd freemen both as Domisticks and Labourers, and never in my Life did I own a Slave. The Abolition of Slavery must be gradual and accomplished with much caution and Circumspection. Violent means and measures would produce greater violations of Justice and Humanity, than the continuance of the practice. Neither Mr Mifflin nor yourselves, I presume would be willing to venture on Exertions which would probably excite Insurrections among the Blacks to rise against their Masters and imbue their hands in innocent blood
There are many other Evils in our Country which are growing, (whereas the practice of Slavery is fast diminishing,) and threaten to bring Punishment in our Land, more immediately than the oppression of the blacks. That sacred regard to Truth in which you and I were educated, and which is certainly taught and enjoined from on high, Seems to be vanishing from among Us. A general Relaxation of Education and Government. A general Debauchery as well as dissipation, produced by pestilential phylosophical Principles of Epicures infinitely more than by Shews and theatrical Entertainment. These are in my opinion more Serious and threatening Evils, than even the Slavery of the Blacks, hatefull as that is. I might even Add that I have been informed, that the condition, of the common Sort of White People in Some of the Southern States particularly Viginia, is more oppressed, degraded and miserable that that of the Negroes.
These Vices and these Miseries deserve the serious and compassionate Consideration of Friends as well as the Slave Trade and the degraded State of the blacks.
I wish you Success in your benevolent Endeavours to relieve the distresses of our fellow Creatures, and shall always be ready to cooperate with you, as far as my means and Opportunities can reasonably be expected to extend.
I am with respect and / Esteem your Friend

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from John Bayard, 25 January 1801
From: Bayard, John
To: Adams, John

Much respected Sir
New Brunswick Jany. 25th 1801

Having been informed that the the Judiciary Bill is like to pass into a Law–by which there will be two appointments to be made of Judges for the State of New York, vizt. An additional District Judge & One Circuit Judge—I have taken the liberty to propose to You my Son Mr. Saml. Bayard, (who resides in the County of West Chester in that State & is one of the Judges of the Inferior Court of common Pleas of said County—) for the appointment of Circuit Judge—Several of His Friends have given Him encouragement & have promised to interest themselves in His behalf—
Should Your Excellency see proper to nominate Him to the Senate, I have no doubt He will succeed And your kindness on this Occasion, will lay, both Him & Me under very great Obligations to You—
With every Sentiment of Respect & Esteem / I am, Much respected sir / Your sincere Friend & very Humble / servant.

John Bayard


Title: From John Adams to Elias Boudinot, 26 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: Boudinot, Elias

Dear Sir
Washington Jan 26 1801

I have this morning, received your favor of the 20th. The anxiety of the gentlemen of the law in New Jersey, to have the present P. of the US appointed chief Justice, after the third of March, is very flattering to me. Although neither pride nor vanity nor indolence would prevent me from accepting any situation, in which I could be useful, I know of none, for which I am fit. The office of Chief justice is too important for any man to hold of sixty five years of age, who has wholly neglected the study of the law for six and twenty years. I have already by the nomination of a gentleman in the full vigor of middle age—in the full habits of business and whose reading in the science is fresh in his head to this office, put it wholly out of my power and indeed it never was in my hopes or wishes
The remainder of my days will probably be spent in the labors of agriculture and the amusements of litterature in both of which I have always taken more delight, than in any public office of whatever rank. Far removed from all intrigues & out of the reach of all the great and little passions, that agitate the world, although I take no resolutions nor make any promises, I hope to enjoy more tranquility, than has ever before been my lot.—Mrs. A returns her thanks for the friendly politeness of Mrs Boudinot & Mrs Bradford. The other parts of your letter will be duly weighed and considered in their season. I am Sir with much esteem your friend & hum sert.


Title: To John Adams from Hanson Catlett, 26 January 1801
From: Catlett, Hanson
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Geo Town Jany 26th. 1801

Nothing of less value to me than my reputation should tempt me to this bold intrusion, as, nothing but conscious innocence could promise me advantage thereform—
Raised Sir, by your appointment to the station which I have held, I am justified in the confidence I feel, that to spare the reputation of a young man whose tender buds of hope had scarcely blown, (if it can be done consistently) will be an object not unworthy your attention.
I have been tried by a Court Martial for charges exhibitted against me by Captain William Cowper of the Navy and found guilty of mutinous conduct and drunkenness, for which I am by that Court broke of my Commission as a surgeon in the Navy—I am not insensible how justly such crimes deserve such punishment, nor wuld I treat with contempt, the decision of the Court, but permit me Sir, to inform you, that I was deprived by unforeseen accident of testimony which might have thrown a different light upon the matter, and upon the procuring of which testimony I only ground my claim to consideration, that by the testimony brought against me (for there was none other brought) it appeared that I had never but in one instance treated Captain Cowper with disrespect, that I had not as he specified attempted to strike him, but only used improper expressions, tho not tending to sedition or mutiny, and at a time when I received from Captain Cowper the most unjustifiable treatment; it is not hinted that I made an attempt to excite rebellion—
It is therefore humbly submitted Sir, to your consideration whether the word mutinous strictly applies to the conduct, which will appear from the proceedings of the Court, and it will also appear that the testimony by which I am criminated of this charge has not been entirely divested of prejudice and partiality, being two of the only three officers who had not left the Ship in consequence of Captain Cowpers oppression and misconduct—
I will only add that these charges have been brought against me in consequence of my requesting an investigation into Captain Cowpers conduct.—
I have the honor to be in great respect, Your most obedient servant.

Hanson CatlettInclosed Sir is a copy of the decision of the Court.


Title: To John Adams from Elbridge Gerry, 26 January 1801
From: Gerry, Elbridge
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Cambridge 26th Jany 1801

I am honored by your confidential letter of the 30th of Decer, & am sorry that any event should render it uncertain, whether you shall appoint Consuls to France. that Mr Lee, amidst the interfering applications of so many candidates, should be represented to the President as a Jacobin, is not to my mind, in this epoch of intrigue, slander, injustice, unexpected or extraordinary. but I am warranted to assure you, viz, that so far has Mr Lee been from being busy in a late election & voting on the wrong side, as that he has never attended a town meeting, or voted for a member of Congress, or of the state Legislature, since his return from France, or interested himself directly or indirectly in their elections. the term Jacobin is made to mean any & every thing, & is applyed to any & every body, according to the veiws of a faction, whose enmity has not been confined to Mr Lee, or myself, but has been extended to the President, for the most important and meritorious act of his administration... having taken the liberty to present to your notice, a person who has ever appeared to me to bear an upright, worthy, & honorable character, I have tho’t it my duty to remove all undue impressions, according to the best information which I have been able to attain; wishing most sincerely that truth may prevail, & that the wickedness of the wicked may come to an end.
My hopes & wishes in regard to the election, that you & Mr Jefferson should be chosen, are defeated; & the next best issue, in my mind, is, that the latter should be your successor. that you would have failed in the Carolina votes, had federalists been electors, I have no doubt; & at a convenient opportunity, will submit the information I have received, & my reasons on the subject. these being conclusive in my mind, I think every one, who had the same object in veiw, & has the same conviction, must rejoice, that you have not been superceded by the duplicity of professed friends, managed by the intrigues & artifice, of your most open & inveterate enemy.—if You, Sir, with the most extensive veiws, the most minute information, & the most thorough experience of our political concerns, are at a loss “to ascertain what course it is we steer, & to what harbour we are bound,” it would be presumption in me to risk an opinion, on the subject: future events must determine the issue. thus much, however, I am at no loss to conjecture, that altho’ the elevation to the chair of Mr Burr, if accomplished, will be perfectly constitutional, & will demand the support of every friend to the Union, it will serve to increase the exasperation, which has threatened it’s destruction: & if faction in our counsels, should so far prevail as to prevent the choice of either of the candidates, it will present to our veiw, the dreary prospect of a political convulsion.
The solid consolation which you must derive from your surviving sons, established as they are “in the habits of virtue & industry,” & in the merited affections of their fellow citizens, is a blessing enjoyed by few; & is a subject of constant gratitude to that beneficent Being, who has furnished you with a sovereign balm for your affliction.
Pray remember Mrs Gerry & myself in the most respectful terms to your Lady, & permit me, with renewed assurances of the most perfect / respect & attachment, to remain, my / dear sir, your sincere friend, & obedt sert
E Gerry


Title: From John Adams to Richard Stockton, 27 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: Stockton, Richard

Dear Sir
Washington Jan. 27 1801.

I am much obliged by your favor of the 17th. If the judiciary bill should pass as I hope and believe it will, I should be very glad of your advice, relative to appointments in other states as well as your own.
The talents and litterary qualifications of Mr. William Griffith of Burlington have been familiar to me for some time. Your account of his character in other respects is very satisfactory. I doubt however of his being litterally at the head of his profession at the bar, while Mr. Richard Stockton is there & am not clear that his pretensions to the circuit bench are the first. I wish to know in confidence your sentiments. You may have reasons for resigning to another, your own pretensions, but before any nomination is made, I should be very glad to know, whether you would accept it. It is very probable to me that your prospects in your own state and at large, may be better for yourself & more for the benefit of the public, but as I am not certainly informed I shall be somewhat embarrassed.—I may have been too indifferent to the smiles of some men & to the frowns of others—but neither will influence my judgment I hope in determining nominations of judges—characters at all times sacred in my estimation.
With great esteem and sincere regard I have the honor to be / Sir your most obed. & hum. sert.


Title: To John Adams from Charles Chauncy, 27 January 1801
From: Chauncy, Charles
To: Adams, John

Sir
New Haven, Jany 27th. AD 1801—

Should the present Judiciary Bill, under Consideration of Congress, pass into a Law; and an appointment of a Judge or Judges, be made, if in this State, Permit me Sir, to ask to be considered as a Candidate, if not inconsistent with other arrangments; and, if my Qualifications & Character, shall be found suitable to the important Betrustment, to be indebted to Your Goodness, for A Nomination, and appointment. My faithfulness in Business, and the manner, in which I have conducted, in the important & Confidential Betrustments, with which I have been honoured, the Members of Congress, from this State can inform, if any Testemonials shall be thought necessary. I can say nothing for myself, except that my Life, has been diligently spent; as a Student, an Advocate; and a Judge; & I hope to acceptances—I am Sir, with the highest / Consideration & Respect,— / Your Obt humble Servant,
Charles Chauncey


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Lincoln, 27 January 1801
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

My dear Sir
Boston Jany 27th. 1801.

Major Hatch has shewn to me the draft of a system he has formed for discharging a number of Cannon at the same instant and proposed so to connect the balls by chains and sharpened Knives so as to cutt their way thro every body which shall come in contact with them.—I have not any pretentions to that kind of science on which their operation must be founded. I therefore hope that my silence respecting their practicability or utility of the scheam will not be construed into a disapprobation of the system than which nothing could indicate higher degrees of folly. And especially while many Gentlemen whose duty has led them to pursue those studies by which they have acquired that information necessary to a very correct judgment pronounce favourably of the plan and suppose that experiment will evince its great Utility—I wish therefore that the public would adopt such measures as shall be sufficient fully to ascertain its operation as all Gentlemen who, turn their thoughts & spend their time on subjects which have for their design the sole object of public good merit the smiles and support of their fellow Citizens whether they shall be successfull or not. I now write to introduce to you Major Hatch who will in the first instance open to you his design
I am My Dear sir with the / most perfect consideration / Your obedient servant

B: Lincoln


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 28 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir.
Washington Jan 28th 1801.

As it has been the practice of this government, to summon the Senate of the United States to meet on the fourth of March after a new election of a President and Vice President, & as various considerations render it probable, that it will be at least as necessary this year, as it ever has been at any former period, I request you to prepare summons for all the Senators, who are to serve after the third of March 1801, to receive such communications & act on such executive business of the United States, as the public service may require. The form of the former summons or proclamations you will find in the office. There is no time to be lost.
I am Sir with great esteem & regard your most obedt servant.


Title: To John Adams from William Thornton, 28 January 1801
From: Thornton, William
To: Adams, John

					Sir:
					Commissioners’ Office, January 28, 1801.

				We do ourselves the honor to present to you a state of the business under our care, and of the public property belonging to the federal seat, with an estimate of its value, founded, not on mere supposition, but on the average of former sales.This report would have been made at an earlier day, had it not been delayed by the unfortunate death of Mr. Scott.We have the honor to be, with sentiments of the highest respect, sir, your most obedient servants,

					William Thornton,Alexander White,W. Cranch.


Title: To John Adams from Roger Griswold, 29 January 1801
From: Griswold, Roger
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington Jan. 29th 1801

A Gentleman who is a member of the Senate of the United States has informed me that you have done me the honour, to nominate me to the Senate, to fill the office of Secretary of War.
Without detailing to you the reasons which opperate conclusively upon my mind, but which can be of no importance except to myself, I deem it my duty, at this early period to inform you, that in case the Senate should ratify the nomination, it will be impossible for me to accept the appointment—and I take the liberty of saying that it would be extremely grateful to me if you would be pleased to withdraw the nomination—
With perfect respect I have the / Honour to be your Obednt. / Humble Servt.
Roger Griswold


Title: From John Adams to John Breckinridge, 30 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: Breckinridge, John

To the Senators of the United States respectively. Sir,January 30th, 1801.

It appearing to me proper and necessary for the public service that the Senate of the United States should be convened on Wednesday, the 4th of March next, you are desired to attend in the Chamber of the Senate on that day at 10 OClock in the fore-noon, to receive and act upon any communications, which the President of the United States may then lay before you, touching their interests, and to do and consider all other Things which may be proper and necessary for the public service, for the Senate to do and consider.

John AdamsPresident of the U. States


Title: From John Adams to United States Congress, 30 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: United States Congress

					Gentlemen of the Senate and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives:
					United States, January 30, 1801.

				 I transmit to Congress for their consideration a letter from William Thornton, Alexander White, and William Cranch, esquires, commissioners of the city of Washington, with a representation of the affairs of the city made by them to the President of the United States, dated 28th of January, 1801, accompanied with a series of documents marked from A to H, inclusively,

					John Adams.


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Dexter, 31 January 1801
From: Adams, John
To: Dexter, Samuel

Dear Sir
Washington Jan 31 1801

I hereby authorize & request you to execute the office of Secretary of State so far as to affix the seal of the U.S. to the inclosed commission to the present Secretary of State John Marshall of Virginia to be chief Justice of the U.S. & to certify, in your own name on the commission as executing the office of Secretary of State pro hac vice


Title: To John Adams from Caleb Gibbs, January 1801
From: Gibbs, Caleb
To: Adams, John

Sir
Boston January 1801

I flatter myself that the President of the United States will excuse the Liberty I have taken in addressing him at this time, but concious that he will lend an listing ear to my observations induces me to do it.
The Inclosed Copy of a duplicate to the Secretary of the Navy in June 1799, respecting my situation, and soliciting him to keep me in view in case of any preferment taking place in the Naval line in this quarter, but so long a period having elapsed and not hearing from him, the United States having purchased a permanent Cite for a dock and Navy Yard, the time fast approaching. when it is probable a Commencement of the Navy department will take place at Charlestown prompts me to acquaint of my wishes and the Corrispondence I have assumed with the Secretary of Navy.
From the 1st. of January 1795, I have been in the Navy department of Boston at $.750. pr. ann. far inadequate for the support of a growing family particularly for the last three years when the necessaries of Life have been so extremly high, and had it not been for a small part of my hard earned earnings for Eight long years sevice during our revolutionary war (and one year after the peace), I should feel far in the rear before this period with a mortification unsurmountable, but the looking forward to the time (which President Washington and General Knox mentions) for something better to turn up, has buyoed up my hopes to the present day.
It is to you Sir I make known my request and let me flatter myself with the pleasing hope that you will bear me in mind before the expiration of your administration.
As I have been writing on private concerns I feel it a duty I owe the United States to offer a few remarks of a public nature. Permit me then Sir (in Confidence) to observe.
Arrangement, system and strict oeconomy (which is the first principals of Life) are wanting in the Navy department in this quarter. In my opinion a Navy Agent never ought to be concerned in Commerce any way, there being so many ways to appropriate public property to private emolument and opens so many avenues of temptation, that an enterprizing Merchant would know no bounds to his ambition
No man ought to be concerned in any private business that is in public employ but he ought to receive a salary sufficient to maintain himself and family with respectability
A man who is paid a per Centum upon all his payments and purchases naturally reflects, that the more of the public money he pays away, the more he has to receive for his services consequently there is no inducement for oeconomy but on the contrary.
To enter into the minutia of the Department at present, would take up too much of your time Sir. I could write largely on this subject and when I reflect that so much money is paid away by Government (when a Considerable part might be saved makes me (who knows) feel mortified. Hence it is of moment to the United States even at the present stage of our Naval affairs to begin a reform and to oeconomise.
It is a fact undeniable that more money is spent that ought to be. Nay I would venture an Assertion that 10,000 dollars might be saved to the United States provided the Naval expenditures to be as much as they have been within these three years past, if properly appropriated and taken care of.
With great respect / I have the honor to be / Sir / Your most Obedient / humble servant

Caleb Gibbs
P. S. In the duplicate mentioning documents, No. 1. and 2. are General Washington’s General Orders when I left his family and his Certificate of my military services when he took leave of the Army at New York both which you did me the honor to peruse at Quincy some time since.
              Since writing, a Circumstance in point, to shew the impropriety of a Navy Agent being concerned in Commerce will appear by a Voucher No. 264 which will accompanies my return for the Month of January, due the 7th. of February inclosed to the Secretary of the Navy, and may be seen at his office—
              C G.


Title: To John Adams from Nathaniel Wells, 1 February 1801
From: Wells, Nathaniel
To: Adams, John

Sir—
Boston Feby. 1st. 1801

The Honble Daniel Davis Esqr has been lately appointed Solicitor General of this State and probably will soon resign his office as District Attorney for the District of Maine as the business of one office will interfere with that of the other—Considering it as of great importance to have able and faithful Attorneys in the several Districts in the United States I take the liberty to recommend Prentiss Mellen of Biddeford in the County of York Esqr as a proper person in my opinion to fill that office; being personally acquainted with him I consider him as a person of sober life and conversation and exemplary in his Behaviour He is much esteemed as an Attorney at Law. I believe him to be as suitable if not more suitable for the office of District Attorney than any other Gentleman in the District of Maine. I have the honor to be with the highest Esteem / Your Excellencys / Most humble Sert

Nathl Wells


Title: To John Adams from Richard Stockton, 2 February 1801
From: Stockton, Richard
To: Adams, John

Sir
Princeton Feby. 2d. 1801

Permit me to return my grateful acknowledgements for your goodness in answering the letter I took leave to address to you on the 17th. of last month. This act of condescension affects me the more as it was altogether unexpected, and has been performed in such a manner as lays me under a weight of obligation that I want words to express. Whilst I tender you my most sincere thanks for this distinguished mark of your attention I must say to your Excellency that I am disinclined to public Employment, as well from a consciousness of inability to perform public service as from an opinion that in these evil times it is not the part of wisdom to barter the independency of private life for the toils of office. We have great and recent examples to prove that the most important services of Men of the highest Character and most distinguished talents who have devoted their lives to their Country, are rewarded by foul reproach and base ingratitude. What then should tempt Men in the more humble ranks of life who have no such pretensions to part with the keeping of their own peace and the interests of those immediately dependent on them? I can for Nothing which will secure the subordinate branches of the national Judiciary from the common fate of the other public Functionaries. It is true a Judge cannot be removed from office by a new President, but the law under which he is appointed may be repealed by a predominant party – and his life may be imbittered by unmerited censure and slander. Your Excellency has emboldened me again to renew my respectful solicitations in favor of Mr Griffith—His state of health is so delicate that he cannot pursue the business of an Advocate with any satisfaction – his retired habits as well as his genius and acquirements seem to fit him for the Bench in a remarkable manner, and if he should be appointed and be permitted to remain on it for a few years he will be one of its brightest ornaments—His pretensions in Character talents and virtuous exertion in stemmig the tide of folly which overflows this land are not inferior to those of any Man in the State. My earnest request and the sincere wish which your Excellency has commanded me to disclose in integrity and confidence is that you would prefer Mr Griffith to all others not excepting myself—If the intervention of other names or any other matter should crecte a bar to Mr Griffith’s promotion at this time I do not say that I would absolutely refuse such an appointment under you in the line of my profession as you might think me as well gratified to execute as the general number of those who may be candidates. Tho’ I cannot presume to say any thing in relation to the nominations to be made from other States, yet I cannot close this letter without assuring you that your appointment of Mr Marshal to be Chief Justice of the United States meets the entire approbation of all impartial men here who know what high qualifications are required in him who shall execute this office with dignity and advantage to the Nation.
I have the honor to be Sir with / profound respect and veneration / your Excellencies
obliged and devoted servant

Rd Stockton


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 4 February 1801
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
United States, February 4. 1801

I nominate the Gentlemen in the following List to fill the Offices to which they are designated in it—
Cavalry.

              Alexander Macomb, junr: New York— Second Lieutenant

            First Regiment of Artillerists & Engineers.

            Cadet Jared BrooksLieutenantRobert GrayPennsylvaniaDittoCadet Lewis LandaisDittoCadet William MurrayDittoCadet Joseph CrossDittoPeter LampkinVirginia DittoJohn B. BarnesMaryland DittoAddison B. ArmisteadVirginia DittoGeorge ArmisteadDitto DittoCharles HuntMassachusetts DittoEnos NolandMaryland DittoClarence MulfordNew–Jersey DittoJohn F. PowellVirginia DittoHezekiah W. BissellConnecticut DittoKilian P. Van RensselaerNew York DittoHenry TilleryNew Hampshire DittoEnoch HumphreyConnecticut Ditto

Second Regiment of Artillerists & Engineers.

            Jonathan WilliamsPennsylvaniaMajorJohn LillieMassachusettsCaptain.Lloyd BeallMaryland Ditto.Josiah DunhamNew Hampshire Ditto.Thomas BrindleyRhode–Island LieutenantWilliam WilsonMaryland DittoJohn WalbachDittoCadet James WilsonDittoLewis HowardNew–Jersey DittoAugustus HuntMassachusetts DittoCadet Pearson TitcombDittoCadet John GrangeDittoCadet Samuel SeatonDittoWaters ClarkConnecticut DittoWilliam CocksNew York DittoJohn HeiskellVirginia DittoGeorge PeterMaryland DittoNathan ParksMassachusetts DittoJesse LullVermont DittoAugustus StrongConnecticut DittoSamuel WelchMassachusetts Ditto

            First Regiment of Infantry

George W. KirklandNew YorkFirst LieutenantJames AshmanPennsylvania DittoNinian PinkneyMaryland DittoWilliam SwanMassachusetts DittoSylvester G. WhippleNew Hampshire DittoThomas W: WilliamsMassachusettsSecond LieutenantBenjamin WallacePennsylvania DittoWilliam CarsonDitto Ditto
First Regiment of Infantry Continued
Horatio StarkVirginiaSecond LieutenantSimon OwensDitto DittoJoseph C. CooperNew–York DittoRobert G. BardeSouth–Carolina DittoBenjamin WilkinsonMaryland DittoAmbrose WhitlockNorth Western Territory DittoBartholomew D. ArmisteadVirginia Ditto
Second Regiment of Infantry.
            John BrahanVirginia Second LieutenantWilliam ElliottMaryland DittoDaniel HughesDitto DittoRobert BellVirginia DittoUriah BlueDitto DittoJohn DuerNew York DittoJohn HinsonMississippi Territory DittoJoseph MillerPennsylvania DittoCadet William H. WooldridgeDitto

            Third Regiment of Infantry

Samuel ErwinePennsylvania First LieutenantWilliam PotterNew Jersey DittoElhanan W WheelerNew York DittoSamuel B. MagawPennsylvania DittoPhilip S. SchuylerNew York DittoJohn WilliamsVirginiaSecond LieutenantAlexander CooperMaryland DittoThomas LeePennsylvania DittoDaniel BakerVermont DittoHenry BrevoortDittoJohn HyltonMaryland Ditto
            Third Regiment of Infantry, Continued

            Henry R. GrahamSecond LieutenantRichard SkinnerDittoJames Smith Junr.Pennsylvania DittoJohn W. BrownsonVermont Ditto

Fourth Regiment of Infantry.

              William GardnerMassachusettsSecond Lieutenant.Benjamin NowlandMaryland DittoJames CunninghamMassachusetts DittoGassaway W. HarwoodMaryland DittoWilkinson JonesDitto DittoEdmund P. GainesTennessee DittoHenry HopkinsMaryland DittoJames Wilkinson Jr.Ditto DittoRichard BuckPennsylvania Ditto.
            John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Joseph Ward, 4 February 1801
From: Adams, John
To: Ward, Joseph

Dear Sir,
Washington, February 4, 1801

I have received and read, with much pleasure, your kind and friendly Letter of January 22d.
As I have all my life-time expected such events as those which have lately occurred, I was not surprized when they happened. They ought to be lessons and solemn warnings to all thinking men. Clouds black and gloomy hang over this country threatning a fierce tempest, arising merely from party conflicts at a time when the internal and external prosperity of it, and the national prospects in every other respect, are the most pleasing and promising, that we ever beheld. I pray Heaven to dissipate the alarm storm.
“Depressions of Spirits,” such as wound the nice organs of health” I have not perceived and do not apprehend: but I have some reason to expect that my constitution will have another tryal, when I come to exchange a routine of domestic life without much exercise, for a life of long journeys and distant voyages in one or other of which I have been monthly or at least yearly engaged for two and forty years. When such long continued and violent exercise, such frequent agitations of the body are succeeded by stillness, it may shake an old frame: rapid motion ought not to be succeeded by sudden rest. But at any rate I have not many years before me, and those few are not very enchanting in propect.
’Till death an honest man and candid friend will ever be dear to my heart, and Col. Ward as one of that character may ever be sure of the good will and kind remembrance of

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Jeremiah Brown, 4 February 1801
From: Brown, Jeremiah
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Providence, R. Island, Feby. 4th. 1801.

I take the liberty to notice to you the following pieces of Machinery of my Invention, it being my intention shortly to apply at the proper Office to obtain Patents therefor.—
1st. For raising water for watering Soil &c.—
2nd. For a Plough which may be worked by one Yoke of Oxen with equal advantage that it is worked by two in the Ordinary way.—
3rd. & 4th. For cooking with Steam of Fat, such as boiling and Roasting, together with an Advantagious improvement on the Roasting Kitchen &c.—
5th. Steam Vessels for Cooking.—
6th. A Fire-Place which will save half the consumption of wood.—
7th. A Rudder whose blade plays below the Comb of the Sea.—
8th. A double bladed Rudder, the intention of which is to give motion to Vessels in a Calm.—
9th. A Churn for Churning Cream, and exhausting extracting, the Butter-Milk.—half the benefit to M.S. and half to J.B.
10th. A traversing Bowsprit which traversers 180 Degrees.—
11th. For a Mill to grind Indian Corn, Rye, Barley, Buck-wheat Oats or Potatoes which are to be mixed with the Grain in such proportion as may be thought proper.—
The General and particular benefits, resulting from the foregoing Inventions to the Public as well as to Individuals, cannot fail to be properly Appreciated by a Character so distinguished, for the encouragement of Learning and improvement in our Infant and flourishing Country, as the Gentleman I now have the Honor of addressing—the President of the United States.—
I will thank You, Sir, if any application should be made for patents for either of those Inventions, to have the Business postponed until I may have an Opportunity of being made Acquainted with the same.—
A line acknowledging the receipt of this will very greatly oblige, Sir, Your very obedient / and humble Servant.—

Jerem Brown


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Dexter, 4 February 1801
From: Dexter, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir
War Departm. 4th. Feb. 1801

Among the papers accompanying the list of military appointments was the resignation of an Officer by the name of Bullet, if I mistake not. It was sent for your acceptance. He is waiting, & would be obliged by your decision as soon as convenient.
I have the honor to be / with perfect respect / Your faithful servt.
Saml. Dexter


Title: To John Adams from John Marshall, 4 February 1801
From: Marshall, John
To: Adams, John

Sir.
Feby. 4th. 1801

I pray you to accept my grateful acknowledgements for the honor conferd on me in appointing me chief Justice of the United States.
This additional and flattering mark of your good opinion has made an impression on my mind which time will not efface.
I shall enter immediately on the duties of the office & hope never to give you occasion to regret having made this appointment
With the most respectful attachment / I am Sir your Obedt. Servt.

J Marshall


Title: To John Adams from Nathan Beers, 5 February 1801
From: Beers, Nathan
To: Adams, John

His Excellency John Adams President of the United StatesNew Haven 5th Feby 1801

The office of Collector for this Port being vacant by the Death of David Austin Esqr. For myself and at the solicitation of a number of the most respectable Inhabitants of this Town I am induced to address your Excellency with a request that I may be appointed to that Office.
As early as Augt 1798 (when it was the general opinion here that the Office would become vacant, Mr Austin being very low in health) I forwarded to the Secretary of the Treasury sundry Papers recommendatory of my Appointment to the Office in question whenever the same should become vacant, copies of which are inclosed, and to which I beg leave to refer your Excellency as also a Letter Addressed to your Excellency by Governor Trumbull.
I now inclose an original Letter from Genl Huntington to me on the same subject. Want of time only prevents my obtaining his Letter to your Excellency in full on this subject.
If any other Testimonials of my Character are necessary they will be obtained & forwarded by Your Excellencys / Most Obedient / & very humble Servant
Nathan Beers


Title: To John Adams from William Munson, 5 February 1801
From: Munson, William
To: Adams, John

Most respected Sir
New Haven February 5th. 1801

I take the Liberty to Inform you that the office of Collector of the Customs for the District of New Haven has become Vacant by the death of David Austin Esquire.
I beg Leave to inform the President of the United States that I have served in the office of Surveyor and Inspector of the Revenue in this District almost Eight years and have in that time during the Vacancy of a Collector performed the Duties of that office almost three Months and at that time I intended to have Made an application for the office then Vacant but for perticulors relative to My disappointment in that application I beg Leave to refer you to my Letter of the 28th of January 1799 a Copy of which I have taken the Liberty herewith to transmit which Letters was Accompanyed with a Number of Recommendations in my favour with a Large Number of subscribers thereto Many of whom were gentlemen of the first Character and Merchants of respectebility which recommendations I Understand are lodged in the office of the Secretary of the Treasury to which I beg Leave to also to refer you.
I Now take the Liberty to offer myself as a Candidate for the Vacant office and hope My application will be attended with success, should that be the Case I will Endeavour so to Conduct Myself as to Merit public approbation. Mr Hillhouse of the Senate Can give you Every Necessary Information Concerning Me.
I am Sir Most respectfully / your Most obedient / and Very humble servant
William Munson


Title: From John Adams to John Rogers, 6 February 1801
From: Adams, John
To: Rogers, John

Dear Sir
Washington Feb 6th 1801

I thank you for your kind letter of Jan 31st. If the judiciary bill should pass, as I hope it will, it will cost me much anxiety and dilligence, to select characters such as you describe to fill the offices & I am obliged to you & to all other friends of their Country, who favor me with their advice & assistance in discharging that important duty. I have a personal regard for Mr. Bayard & his father has been long my friend, but I can make no promise, nor give any encouragement untill all the candidates are before me & I have taken time to weigh their qualifications & merits. I have no doubt he deserves the handsome character you give him. The character “of an ennemy to the fatal philosophy of the day” has great weight with me, although it appears to have none with our nation. But I shall not dilate on this head. It behoves all men to consider whether that intelligence & piety and virtue in the great body of the people, upon which we have all acknowledged our whole security to depend, has not failed our expectations & disappointed all our hopes. We in this age are more unfortunate in one respect than the ancient gentiles. Among them the philosophers were divided into numerous sects—the folowers of Socrates of Plato of Pythagoras & of Zeno as well as of Epicurus. All the former had a mixture of good morals, manly virtues & true opinions among their errors & all of them served to counterpoise & counteract the poisonous pestilential & most fatal doctrine of Epicurus. The portico for example produced men like the Catoes, Cicero, Seneca, Brutus, Epictetus and others who were saints in comparison of Caesar and Anthony. But our modern philosophers are all the low grovelling disciples of Epicurus: Not one Stoick no Platonician among them. Where then are we going! Are we all to become Epicuri de grege porci?—There is one thing, My dear Doctor, which has given me much uneasiness. How can it have happened that such great numbers of our good friends the Presbyterians have become the advocates, disciples & voters, if not votaries of the great doctors of Epicurean phylosophy? But I have written a tedious letter when I intended only to have acknowledged your favor.
With much esteem I am Sir your friend & humble sert


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Smith, 7 February 1801
From: Adams, John
To: Smith, Samuel

Dear Sir
Washington Feb 7th 1801.

I thank you for the honor of your letter of the 3d. I know the worth of Mr. Bayard & should be happy to give the proof of it, but in these cases I can give no encouragement untill all the candidates are before me & their cases weighed. I am much obliged by your information concerning him, which coincides with all the testimonies I have seen & indeed with all that I have observed.
Most sincerely do I unite with you in deploring a spirit which has increased, is increasing & I fear never will be diminished. The people of America have sett up pretensions to superior information intelligence & public virtue in comparison with the rest of mankind, which I believe will very soon be found wanting, if they have not already failed in the trial. History & experience are lost upon mankind. Downright corruption has spread & increased in America more than I had any knowledge or suspicion of. Even parties themselves have no common principle of union that can long bind them together—notwithstanding at times & for short periods, they show an astonishing unanimity. Your kind expressions of esteem for me are very prescious to my heart & I assure you all that respect & esteem is reciprocally entertained for your public & private character, as well as eminent literary talents / by Sir your sincere friend & very humble servant


Title: To John Adams from Richard Lee, 7 February 1801
From: Lee, Richard
To: Adams, John

Sir,
7 Feb. 1801 No. 131 Chestnut St.
the Editor of the American Universal Magazine ventures respectfully to solicit the following favor—Observing that his fellow Citizens universally wish for an accurate likeness of their first Magistrate, elect—and endeavouring to gratify so general a desire to the utmost of his power; he is encouraged to enquire if Mr. Adams possesses a miniature, or other painting and would thereby confer a high obligation on, about 2500 respectable Citizens, but more especially on the publisher / who is with the most duteous Respect &c. &c

Richd. Lee—The enclosed Portrait is a Specimen of our Artists abilities—from a painting with which we were favoured by Mrs. Rittenhouse.


Title: To John Adams from Henry Knox, 9 February 1801
From: Knox, Henry
To: Adams, John

Sir
Boston 9 Feby 1801.

Mr Wetmore who has been long a barrister at the bar of this state, but who meeting with pecuniary embarrasments has removed into the district of Maine, is very desirous of some employment in the judicial Line.
His age about fifty, and his legal knowledge, qualify him in the opinion of those who are intimately acquainted with him, for almost any office in the department of the law I have the honor to be / Sir with perfect respect and / Attachment Your Obedient / Servt

H Knox


Title: To John Adams from Jonathan Mason, 9 February 1801
From: Mason, Jonathan
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington feby. 9 1801

It being presumed that the bill for the amendment of the Judiciary System will by your approbation become a law, & you having intimated to some of us a wish to ascertain the sentiments of gentlemen in relation to persons qualified for promotion to the office of Judge. We therefore beg leave respectfully to recommend John Lowell Esquire for the appointment of Cheif Justice of the first Circuit, consisting of New Hampshire, Massachusetts & Rhode island. And if the State of Massachusetts should be entitled to two Judges, which considering the circumstances extent & population of the Province of Maine we flatter ourselves will be the case, we also recommend David Sewall Esquire for one of the associate Judges of the same Circuit—
We have the honor to be with the highest respect / Sir, / yr most obedt. servts:—

Jona MasonWm. ShepardGeo. ThatcherSilas LeeP. WadsworthJohn ReedLeml. WilliamsBailey BartlettNathan ReadTheodore Sedgwick


Title: To John Adams from James Monroe, 9 February 1801
From: Monroe, James
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Richmond February 9th. 1801.

In the course of last year on the receipt of information from mr. Lee of Norfolk, that a Mariner from the United States Frigate Constellation, had been delivered up by a magistrate of the Borough of Norfolk to the british consul at that port and sent by him to a british island, where he was condemned and executed on a charge of being a mutineer on board the british ship of War, the Hermione, I deemed it my duty, by advice of the Council of State, to make enquiry into the transaction and to communicate the result to the General Assembly of this Commonwealth at its last session. The Legislature immediately perceived that whatever appertained, in the supposed transaction, to the consul of his Britanick Majesty, was exclusively cognizable by the General Government, and requested me to transmit you a copy of that communication with a copy of all the documents which accompanied it. In fulfilling the desire of the General Assembly, I take the liberty to forward to you also, a copy of the resolution under which this communication is made.
I have the honor to be with great respect &c

James Monroe


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Smedley, 9 February 1801
From: Smedley, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir
Fairfield Feby. 9, 1801.

The Office which I had more particularly in view when I had the Honor of addressing my letter to you of the 30, of April last, is now become vacant. the Collector of the Customs for the District of New Haven, I am informed, is no more. there will be many applicants for this Vacant Office. Senators and Representatives will be intreated for their interest by the Several Applicants, their Relations, Friends, and Connections. my pretension being founded principally on the policey of promotion and my own Merrit thereto by my Conduct in Office for eleven years past, the Utility of the former being your own prerogative to determine and evidence of the latter being Obtainable from the department under which I have Served; there will be no Occasion for me to make known my wishes to any person at the Seat of Government but yourself, submitting, however, my Character to any scrutiny you may be pleased to make. I have the Honor to be, / Sir, with the / highest Respect / your most Obt. servt

Sam Smedley


Title: To John Adams from Lewis B. Sturges, 9 February 1801
From: Sturges, Lewis B.
To: Adams, John

Sir.
Fairfield (Cont) 9th. Febry. 1801

I learn that Samuel Smedley Esqr. Collector of the Customs for this District has applied for the Office at New Haven – vacant by the Death of David Austine Esq – in Case he shou’d be promoted to that Office – it is my wish (if considered consistent with the public interest) to succeed him here,—As I have not the honor of a personal acquaintance with your Excellency—I take the liberty of referring you to the delegation from this State who are all generally acquainted with my Character.—
I have the honor to be with the highest / respect / Your Excellencys / obt. hble servt.

Lewis B Sturges


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 10 February 1801
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir.
Washington February 10th 1801

Inclosed is a Newbury Port Herald in which is quoted “A letter from John Adams dated Amsterdam 15 of Dec. 1780 to Thomas Cushing Lieutenant Govenor of Massatts.” This letter has been for some years past reprinted & quoted in many American pamphlets & newspapers as genuine & imposes on many people by supposing & imputing to me sentiments inconsistent with the whole tenor of my life & all the feelings of my nature. I remember to have read the letter in English newspapers soon after it was published at a time when the same English papers teemed with forged letters long tedious flatt & dull in the name of Dr Franklin, the most concise, sprightly & entertaining writer of his time. The Dr. declared them all to be forgeries, which he was not under a necessity of doing because every reader of common sense & taste knew them to be such from their style and nonsense. The letter in my name I also declare to be a forgery. I never wrote a letter in the least degree resembling it to Lieutenant Gov. Cushing nor to any other person. This declaration I pray you to file in your office & you have my consent to publish it if you think fit.
I am Sir with great esteem your most obedient & humble servant


Title: To John Adams from Harry Innes, 10 February 1801
From: Innes, Harry
To: Adams, John

Sir,
State of Kentucky Feby. 10th. 1801

A desire to promote the happiness of our common country has induced me to address you at this time; this reason I flatter myself will be received as a sufficient appology for the freedom I have taken in writing this letter.
It is reported that a change is proposed & will probably take place in the Judicial system of the U. States & that this change will require an additional Judge in this State.
Supposing that information of a proper  character to fill so important an Office would not be unacceptable to you as the public weal on all such occasions must be your first object, & that where your own knowledge doth not extend, you must depend on the representation of others. I here venture to name one Gentleman possessing capacity, integrity & some years experience, who would do honour to the appointment & be very acceptable to his countrymen.
The Hon’ble Buckner Thruston a district Judge of this state is the person alluded to. He is in high esteem as a Judge with the gentlemen of the bar & by his general deportment hath obtained the respect of all who know him.
If the information I have received be correct relative to a change in the Judiciary permit me sir to recommend Mr. Thruston to your attention.
With sentiments of respect & / esteem I am sir your mo. / ob. servt.

Harry Innes


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Livermore, 10 February 1801
From: Livermore, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington 10 Feby. 1801

We beg leave respectfully to recommend Edward St Loe Livermore late a Judge in our supreme court, for the appointment of an associate Judge; in the first circuit Court for New hampshire Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
We also take the liberty to recommend Jeremiah Smith late a Member of Congress from New hampr. for the appointment of an associate Judge
The consideration that the District Judge of New hampshire is now unable to hold courts or do any judicial Business we presume Sir will have its due weight in the decision with regard to the nomination—The admiralty business and that under the revenue and bankrupt Laws renders it necessary that there should be a Judge in our District whose situation and residence should be convenient to those who have occasion to apply to the district and circuit courts.
We have the honor to be / with the highest respect / Sir / Yr mo hum servt
Samuel LivermoreAbiel FosterSaml. TenneyJona. FreemanJames Sheafe


Title: To John Adams from Oliver Whipple, 11 February 1801
From: Whipple, Oliver
To: Adams, John

May it please your Excellency,
mpton Newhampshire Februy 11th. 1801—

This beiny for the Choice of President of the once united States I can not but view it as an eventfull Period: May that guardian Providence (which has hitherto protected this brave and once happy People) secure to them, in your Person, as chief Majestrate, that Union, Safety and Protection, which is your Wish to cultivate, and Desire to give. I must, respected Sr, whatever is the Event, give you this true & consoling Thought, That your Administration has been a Blessing to this People, both in its Principle and Practice, and the happy Result, is even acknowledged by those, who have been most violent, in opposition in this Quarter, who now seem to wish that some happy Destiny would so despose the States, that a Tie Vote may take Place on this momentous Occasion; That the States, may once more have a Chance to see clearly their best Interest & pursue it. I can say for myself, and nine tenths of Newhampshire, it is their ardent Wish. I have, respected Sr, (tho’ not without your Permission) lately addressed you on Behalf of my Son, I hope he will not pass unnoticed, he is deserving of the appointment solicited; and when it is considered that his native State and Town, which has now a navy yard, and will undoubtedly will soon have a Dock, & has a Fort contiguous, and not a single Soldier for their Protection; The Executive will (I am perswaded) Think of him, both as to his locale Situation and Ability, deserving their ttention: His whole Heart and Soul is engross’d by military Persuits; if thro’ Mischance, he should fail of what he is most desirous; I most earnestly solicit some appointment in the Consular or other Department, that would be congenial to a young man of Genius and Enterprise.—
I see large Fields open for those, that have been faithfull in the Political Vineyard. There is Loaves & Fishes to be distributed, is there not one Slice for a faithfull Labourer? are there not Martial-Ships, Clerkships &c &c, to be filled, is not a Person, deserving of something who has ever held you in the highest Estimation from his first Acquaintance, who has wh ever supported your Administration and Government, & to whom is owing, in a great Measure, the present Feaderalism of Newhampshire, and who is not among the lea is Bretheren;
I am Sr. with the greatest Esteem, & most profound / Respect, for your Person & Character, Your most obedient Servant—

Oliver Whipple


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 13 February 1801
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
United States Feb 13 1801

I nominate James A. Bayard, member of the house of Representatives from the State of Delaware to be minister plenipotentiary from the United States to the French republic

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Timothy Bloodworth, 13 February 1801
From: Bloodworth, Timothy
To: Adams, John

Sir
Cittey of Washington February 13th 1801

The Act pass’d this sessions, for the revisal of the Judicial sistem, will require the appointment of a Judge for the State of No Carolina, permit me, with resepectfull submission, to recommend Mr Samuel Johnston, as a Gentleman suitably quallified to fill that Station. his Charrecter is so wel established as a Lawyer, that any observations on that subject, would be superfluouse. I beg leave only to add, that this recommendation does not arise from personal Attachment, but from a knowledge of his personal Merrit, & full persuation that should he meet with the Approbation of the President, he will do Honor to the appointment, by the rectitude of his Conduct. With due Esteem, & respect, I have the Honor to be, Sir.
Youre Most Obedient, & / Very Humble Servant.

Timothy Bloodworth


Title: To John Adams from William Cooper, 13 February 1801
From: Cooper, William
To: Adams, John

Sir
Feby. 13th. 1801

By the provisions of the Act respecting the Judiciary, which has just become a Law—a new District in the Northern part of the State of New-York is created; In which the Offices of Attorney & Marshal are to be filld. by new appointments—relying upon the belief that your Excellency is willing to receive all information relating to the suitableness of persons for any employment which is vacant—we have taken the liberty of stating our belief that William Pitt Beers Esquire of the City of Albany is a proper person to fill the office of Attorney and that James Dole Esqr—of Troy is a proper person for the office of Marshall of said District—and we recommend the aforesaid persons to be nominated for the same—
We are very respectfully your /  Excellencys Servts.
William CooperHenry GlenJonas PlattJohn Bird


Title: To John Adams from Jared Ingersoll, Jr., 13 February 1801
From: Ingersoll, Jared, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Philadelphia Feby 13th 1801

I extremely regret that my business requiring an immediate Return, prevented my having the honor a further Interview with you before I left the City of Washington.
permit me to repeat, what I have already mentioned to you verbally, my resignation of the office I now hold, as District Attorney of the United States for the District of Pennsylvania.
If the Result of the late Presidential election had been conformable to my wishes, & my Ideas of what was best for the publick, I would have continued to execute the Duties of the Office. I do not feel the same sense of obligation nor the same Inclination towards your successor.
As my profound Respect for you remains & my Attachment is encreased by what I conceive to be the ungrateful return of your Fellow-Citizens for a long course of very eminent Services, I shall hope to have the opportunity to pay my Respects to you as you pass thro’ Philadelphia towards Boston.
I am / With the highest esteem / Your obednt hum ser
Jared Ingersoll


Title: To John Adams from James Wilson, 13 February 1801
From: Wilson, James
To: Adams, John

Sir
U. S. Laboratory, near Philadelphia, Feby. 13th. 1801.

I take the liberty of addressing you upon a Subject, which, though of little Importance to you, is yet highly interesting to me.
On the 26th of May last you were pleased to give a verbal Order to the Secretary of War, through Major Tousard, to make out for me a Commission of lieutenant in the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers. Mr McHenry, then in the Hurry of Business necessarily attendant on a Man about leaving an important Office, refused it to me. This was the more mortifying, as the next Day I was present in the War Office when a Letter of Appointment was given to Mr Robins Chamberlaine.
In October last, when, in Company with Col. Tousard, I did myself the Honour of visiting you at Quincy, you, on Recollection of the Circumstance; wrote to the Secretary of War on the Subject. This Letter reached Washington the Day after the Departure of Mr Dexter from that Place, and was afterwards burnt with the War Office without his having seen it.
If it is not trespassing too much on your Time, I would request the Favour of your giving a new Order to the Secretary of War.
When you gave the first order for my Appointment, you also gave an Order for the Appointment of Major Tousard as Lieut. Colonel of the 2nd Regiment and Inspector of Artillery. Mr McHenry refused Compliance with this Order also. When, some Time after, Major Tousard was appointed, his Commissions bore Date, and he received the Emoluments from the 26th of May, the Date of your first Order. Is it not just that my Commission should be dated, and that I should receive the Emoluments, from the same Time?
This I submit respectfully to your Consideration: if I have taken too great a Liberty, I hope you will have the Goodness to excuse it.
With the greatest Respect / I have the Honour to be / Sir, / Your obliged and very humble Servant

James WilsonCadet A. E.


Title: To John Adams from Willis Alston, 14 February 1801
From: Alston, Willis
To: Adams, John

Sir
Representative Chamber 14th Feby 1801

In consequence of the passage of a law during the present session of Congress for organizing the courts of the united states the appointment of a circuit Judge in the state of North Carolina becomes necessary
I therefore take the liberty of recommending to your consideration the character of the Honorable Samuel Johnston, at present a Judge of the Supreme court of said state, for the Honor of that office in whom legal knowledge honesty and integrity are United
I should not have approached you upon the present occasion had it not have been in discharge of a duty I owe the state which I have with others the Honor of representing in the congress of the united states I am with sentiments of respect your / most obedient servant.
Willis Alston


Title: To John Adams from Richard Bland Lee, 14 February 1801
From: Lee, Richard Bland
To: Adams, John

Esteemed Sir,
Philadelphia Feby. 14th. 1801

When I left Virginia a vacancy in the Collectorship of Alexandria seemed to be expected. Should that event happen I requested some of my friends to nominate me to you as a candidate to supply it.
It was also expected that a government for the territory of Columbia would be adopted, which would include in its organization a judiciary System, consisting of one Judge & two associates—I took the liberty of requesting some friends to name me also as an Associate Judge.—Having been educated as a Lawyer, tho’ I never practiced, in consequence of being called into the service of my country at an early period of life, I may without vanity say that I consider myself as qualified to fill this office, and it is the one which I should prefer tho’ the first would probably be most lucrative.
I have sacrificd the prime years of my life in supporting that Government, which has been so wisely & prosperously administerd by your Predecessor & yourself.
Should there be no candidates whose sacrifices have been greater, & whose fitness shall be more unquestionable I trust that your excellency will not pass me by—
May you long live & enjoy that felicity which a mind conscious of its virtues, and the recollection of the most valuable services to your Country must produce—And yet see a Poeple, always so deer to you; recover from their present delusion, & ready to pay to your declining yeers the just tribute of gratitude.
I must beg your excellency to excuse this address, and remain assured that I am with sentiments of the highest veneration for your character yr. most obt Sert
Richard Bland Lee


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Chase, 16 February 1801
From: Chase, Samuel
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington, 16th. Febry. 1801.

As I consider the Appointment of a Judge, for the fifth Circuit, of very great Importance to the Public, and to the judiciary Department, I take the Liberty to recommend to your Excellency Philip Barton Key Esqr.—I know no Gentleman, in this State (who will accept) better qualified, in every Respect, to discharge the Duties of the Office; and I am well assured, that only Want of Health, of which he Now enjoys a great Share, will induce him to resign the Station. I believe the Appointment of Mr. Key will be as agreeable to the Fæderel Interest, in this State, as that of any other Gentleman.—
I have the Honor to be, / With the highest Respect and / Esteem, / your Excellency’s most / Obedt. Servant

Samuel Chase


Title: To John Adams from Theodore Foster, 16 February 1801
From: Foster, Theodore
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir,
Washington City February 16th. 1801

I have long been acquainted with Samuel Bayard Esq. of New Rochelle, in the State of New York, where he has Settled with and has an amiable Family, having married Miss Pintard of that Place, a Relation of the Family of Mr. Boudinot, Director of the Mint.—He has had a Liberal Education. He practiced Law a Number of Years, at the Bar of Pensylvania—Served Six Years as Clerk of the Supreme Court of the United States—was more than Three Years Agent for American Claims, in the Courts of Law in Great Britain.—and on his Return from thence was appointed, by Govr Jay a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, in the County where he now resides, and to a Mastership in Chancery. He is now in the 35th Year of his Age, at the Meridian of Life, sustaining an Excellent Character in all Respects as to Morals, Legal Knowledge, and political Sentiments. I beg leave on these Grounds to recommend him to the Attention of the President, in selecting a Character to fill the Office of a Circuit Judge, in the District to which he belongs, in the hope that it will not be considered, as an improper Addition to other Testimonials in his Favour, as I believe him possessed of the most amiable Disposition, prudent Deportment, Pleasing Manners and an inflexible Integrity, greatly to be desired, in the Character of an Officer, so important in the Administration of the Justice of the Nation.—Mr. Bayard having been an acquaintance of mine I sent him a Copy of the Judiary Bill, as first reported in Congress, requesting his Sentiments on it. His Answer dated the 22d. Ulto. I inclose as justifying the Sentiments I have expressed respecting him.
I have the Honor to be, Dear Sir, with Sentiments of the / highest Esteem and Respect / Your Excellency’s most Obedient Servt
Theodore Foster


Title: To John Adams from Theodore Foster, 16 February 1801
From: Foster, Theodore
To: Adams, John

Sir—
City of Washington Feb. 16th: 1801.

In the event of the Hon. Benjamin Bourn being appointed a circuit judge in the first circuit, under the act providing for the more convenient organization of the courts of the United-States, we beg leave to recommend to you the Hon. Ray Greene, for the office of judge for the district of Rhode–Island, now held by Mr: Bourn.
Mr. Greene has been uniformly and deservedly esteemed in private life, as a man of integrity and honour. As an evidence of his professional acquirements we deem it proper to state, that he was several years successively elected Attorney General of R. Island by the Freeholders of that State, and discharged the duties that devolved upon him, in a manner satisfactory to them and honourable to himself. He sustained at the same time the office of district-attorney, under the government of the U. States, with ability and fidelity. He has been for three years past a member of the Senate of the U. States, and your knowledge of him in that capacity, renders it unnecessary for us to say a word respecting his political character. In short, as a private, public, and professional man, we think he has a well-founded claim to the office for which we recommend him. And we are persuaded, that his obtaining it would afford satisfaction to all the good citizens of Rhode Island.
We have the honour to be with / great respect / Sir, / Your most humble Serts:
Theodore FosterJohn BrownChris. G. Champlin


Title: To John Adams from Elizur Goodrich, 16 February 1801
From: Goodrich, Elizur
To: Adams, John

Sir.
Washington Feby: 16. 1801.

Having inclosed to the Secretary of the Treasury, a petition, addressed to your Excellency soliciting an Appointment to the vacant office of Collector of the Port of New Haven, I hope it will not be deemed improper to express, my motives leading at the present time to a wish for retirement. I have an affectionate family and young Children to support and educate—I have always considered the discharge of an important trust, in behalf of the State of Connecticut, when your Excellency was designated as the Chief Magestrate of the United States, as the most honorable and conspicuous Agency of my Life, and am sincerely desirous that my continuance in the national Councils, which I fondly entered under your Excellencys Administration, may terminate at the present Crisis. Taught by example, that the most eminent public services are no security against national ingratitude and injustice, should I have the honour of acting, in retirement, under a Commission derived from your Excellency, I shall consider the event, as the most fortunate one of my Life, I shall, at all times, recollect with satisfaction, your Excellencys eminent Services, & shall feel and express sentiments of the highest esteem and respect for your Excellency’s person and Character—Should your Excellency, on investigation, deem my request incompatible with the public Good, I shall in every future event, retain your Excellencys Character, & Services in the highest estimation.
I have the honour to be / your Excellencys / most obedient & humle Servant
Elizur Goodrich


Title: To John Adams from Harrison Gray Otis, 16 February 1801
From: Otis, Harrison Gray
To: Adams, John

Sir
feby 16. 1801—

Upon perusing with more attention a letter from Judge Lowell which I had the honor to mention to you, it appears to me to be a duty not only to him but to the Executive, to communicate the letter itself under his hand, as it seems to contain not merely an expression of his wishes in relation to the office of Circuit Judge, but an eventual resignation of his office, which he relies upon me to make known with the express intention that it may be filled under the present administration. You Sir, are the best judge of the propriety of this construction—
I have the honor to be / with great respect / Sir / your most obedt Servt
H G Otis


Title: From John Adams to United States Congress, 16 February 1801
From: Adams, John
To: United States Congress

					Gentlemen of the Senate and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives:

					United States, February 16, 1801.

				I wish to know the pleasure of Congress and request their direction concerning the disposition of the property of the United States now in my possession; whether I shall deliver it into the hands of the heads of Departments, or of the commissioners of the city of Washington, or of a committee of Congress, or to any other persons Congress may appoint, to be delivered into the hands of my successor, or whether I shall present it myself to the President of the United States on the 4th of March next. Any of these modes will be agreeable to me.

					John Adams.


Title: To John Adams from Nathaniel Chipman, 17 February 1801
From: Chipman, Nathaniel
To: Adams, John

Sir
City of Washington Feb 17. 1801

I find there will be a vacancy in the office of judge for the district of Vermont—permit me sir to say that I should think myself honored by an appointment to that office if you should think proper to nominate me—I hope sir you will find in the present situation nothing improper in this direct application.—
I am sir with the / highest respect your / most obedient servant

Nathl Chipman


Title: To John Adams from John Chew Thomas, 17 February 1801
From: Thomas, John Chew
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Washington Feby. 17. 1801

It is with the most respectfull deference that I take the Liberty of offering to your Consideration Philip Barton Key Esqr. as a person in my Opinion well qualified to fill the Office of District Circuit Judge under the new Judiciary System—In addition to other Oppurtunities of becoming well acquainted with him—I have served two Sessions with him in our State Legislature and entertain an high Opinion of his Honor, patriotism & Abilities— With very great Respect / I am your freind & Servt

Jno Chew Thomas


Title: From John Adams to United States Senate, 18 February 1801
From: Adams, John
To: United States Senate

Gentlemen of the Senate
United States Feb 18 1801.

I nominate Elizur Goodrich Esqr, member of the House of Representatives for Connecticut to be Collector of the Customs for New Haven in the place of David Austin deceased

John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Archibald Henderson, 18 February 1801
From: Henderson, Archibald
To: Adams, John

Sir
Congress Hall 18th February 1801

We beg leave to recommend William Lee Alexander Esquire of North Carolina as a person highly qualified to fill the office of Circuit Judge and to express a wish that this Appointment May be conferred upon him
We have the honor to be / with great respect / your Mo Obedt / humble Servant

A HendersonRobert WilliamsJos. Dickson


Title: To John Adams from Nathaniel Macon, 18 February 1801
From: Macon, Nathaniel
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington 18 Feby 1801

Permit me to recommend to your notice Mr. Samuel Johnston of North Carolina, as a person well qualified, to discharge the duties of a circuit Judge, I do this the more cheerfully, because you were acquainted with him, when he was a senator from No: Carolina in the senate of the United States, He is now one of the supreme Judges of the state.
I am with due respect /  Sir /  yr  most obt. Sert—

Nathl Macon


Title: To John Adams from Richard Stanford, 18 February 1801
From: Stanford, Richard
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Chamber of the H.R. U.S. Feb. 18—1801

Permit me to say that I consider Saml. Johnston, Esq. of N. C. at present a circuit judge of the State, an eligible character to fill the like office under our newly organized Federal system—
That State has, indeed, at various times of his life made th him the object of its first honours, &, so far as I have understood, he has always acquitted himself with general approbation.
If then, Sir, these considerations shall tend to recommend him to your confidence upon this occasion I shall feel myself gratified as a Representative from the State, at having submitted them.
I am, Sir, with the greatest / respect Yr. hble. Sert.

R. Stanford


Title: From John Adams to John Marshall, 19 February 1801
From: Adams, John
To: Marshall, John

Dear Sir
Washington Feb 19 1801.

Inclosed is a letter to me from the Vice President of the U.S. with a resolution of the Senate, dated the 18 of this month & a certificate of the Vice President of the election of Aaron Burr to be the future Vice President of the United States. I request you to select a proper person, according to the usage in such cases, to proceed to N York and convey this certificate to Mr Burr
With great esteem I have the honor to be Sir your obedt. sert


Title: To John Adams from James Asheton Bayard, Jr., 19 February 1801
From: Bayard, James Asheton, Jr.
To: Adams, John

Sir
Washington 19. Feby. 1801.

I beg you to accept my thanks for the honor conferred on me by the nomination as Minister to the French Republic. Under most circumstances I should have been extremely gratified with such an opportunity of rendering myself serviceable to the Country. But the delicate Situation in which the late presidential election has placed me forbids me exposing myself to the Suspicion of having adopted from impure motives the line of conduct which I pursued
Representing the smallest State in the union without resources which could furnish the means of Self protection, I was compelled by the obligation of a sacred duty so to act as not to hazard the constitution upon which the political existence of the State depends. The service which I should have to render by accepting the appointment would be under the administration of Mr. Jefferson & having been in the number of those who withdrew themselves from the opposition to his election it is impossible for Me to accept an office the tenure of which would be at his pleasure
You will therefore pardon Me Sir for begging you to accept my resignation of the appointment.
I have the honor to be / with perfect consideration / your very obt. Sert.

James A. Bayard


Title: To John Adams from John Brown, 19 February 1801
From: Brown, John
To: Adams, John

Sir.
Washington 19th. Feby. 1801

In the expectation that you will think it expedient to appoint a Judge for the sixth Circuit from among the Citizens of Kentucky I take the liberty to recommend to your notice Buckner Thruston Esqr., long a resident of that State as a Gentleman who in my opinion is well qualified to fill that Office. Mr Thruston is now of middle age, has had the advantage of a good education, & possesses an independant mind & a sound Judgement. He practiced the Law in that state with reputation & success, untill appointed a Judge of the District Courts, & General Court which Station he has filled for several years with ability impartiality, & integrity, to the intire approbation of all concerned. He stands distinguished for his political moderation belongs to no party, & I do believe that he or any of his Connections are in any manner interested in the Land Disputes of that Country which will probably constitute the chief business of the Court for that District. In short I do not think there is in the State of Kentucky among those who would accept the Appointment an other man qualified to fill this important office, with equal respectability, & advantage—
I have the honor to be / with very great respect / Sir / Yo Mo Obt. Sert
J. Brown


Title: To John Adams from Ray Greene, 19 February 1801
From: Greene, Ray
To: Adams, John

Sir—
Washington 19th. Feby 1801

Mr. Robert Greenleaf of East Greenwich in the state of Rhode Island &c. has expressed a disposition to serve in the Navy of the United States as Lieutenant of Marines, and has desired that I put to you my Opinion of his Qualifications, it is with Pleasure I remark that he has a fair moral Character, and I consider him possessed of the Qualifications necessary for the proper discharge of the duties of the Place, and that should the Appointment be conferred upon him, he would exert himself for performing the Requirements of it with Honor and Fidelity—
with very respectful Consideration / I have the Honor to be / Sir / yr. obt. ser.

Ray Greene