Quincy [27] 17 May, 1794
[This letter is dated incorrectly. Adams Papers editors have redated this letter 27 May 1794, based on the content of the letter. ] Thanks to the Father of the Main, and the Bountifull dispencer of the den's of Heaven, who has plentifully waterd the dry and thirsty Earth, The Fields recover their verdure, and the little Hills rejoice, the drooping vine rears its head and the witherd flower Blooms anew.
Join every living Soul,
Beneath the Spacious temple of the Sky,
In adoration join; and, ardent raise
one general Song: So thin are vocal gales
Breathe soft, whose Spirit in your freshness Breaths.
Soft root your incense, herbs, and fruits and flowers
In mingled clouds to Him; whose Sun exalts
Whose Breath perfumed you, and whose pencil paints
Indeed my dearest Friend it would rejoice your Heart to behold the change made in the appearance of all Nature, after one of our old fashioned Election storms as we used to term them. I hope we may be further blessd by repeated Showers.
I this Day received yours of the 19th of May. I know not what became of the letter you mention. Such a one there was, nor do I recollect a Syllable of its content, excepting asking your advise
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about the land which was the
peice owned formerly by Margaret Vesey. I had 72 pounds bid for it, but it Sold at 60 dollars
pr. acre and was purchased by Dr. Phips. I also mentioned that the Name of Adams might be Supposed in high estimation, since by the returns received we had reason to Suppose that our Governor and
Leiut. Governor were of that Name. But one and the same Man. Your Brothers too had that day been chosen Mayors for this Town of which I informed you, but I do not recollect
any thing further. I might write a string of Blessings upon the Democrats, their clubs, &c. but as nothing I could say of them is more than they merit they are welcome to make the most of it, and
Chronical it, if they get it.
"You caution our Son to be reserved, prudent, cautious, and silent." He is I believe all this. You did him curb his vanity. I know not whose praise would so soon tend to excite it, as one for whom he has so great respect and veneration, and whose judgment he so much relies upon. I will not say that all my Geese are Smart. I hope however that I have no occasion to Blush for the conduct of any of my Children. Perhaps I build more expectation upon the rising Fame and reputation
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of one of them, than of
an other, but where much is given, much shall be required. I know their virtues and I am not blind to their failings. Let him who is without cast the first stone.
The Jacobines are very Angry that Congress leaves them at their Liberty, and permits them with their Eyes open to rush on to destruction. That they want Guardians is true enough, but no one obliges them to risk their property to French, British or Spanish pirates.
Others I believe wish the Embargo continued from real patriotic motives.
Speculation, has been going on rapidly.
I understand the Term impatiently yours. But I had a good mind to be a little Rhoguish and ask a Question, but I think I will only say that I am most patiently
Your Ever constant and affectionate
A. Adams
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[Endorsement -- see page image]
