Quincy Janry 8th 1794 [i.e. 1795]
[Based on internal evidence, Adams Papers editors have redated this letter 8 January 1795.] My dearest Friend
Yours of 25 december reachd me with the Book for Louissa. Through the Month of december the Weather was uncommonly fine, but the New Year is very inclement. We have had a fair day or two only since it commenced, very little Snow and what snow we had, is all leaving us to day, by a plentifull southerly rain. Our people have been engaged where the Weather would allow this week in the woods. I have had my wood cut by them this Winter in what is calld Beals Lot. They go to the Top of the Hill cut if, and pitch it down. The Weather has been moderate and if we had snow this could not be done as the Hill is high rocky and steep, nor would any persons do this, if hired to cut by the cord. I am soliticious to get sufficient for the winter and summer. I shall be only second in command by and by. Yet I think I am more solicitious to have the commands of my Principal executed in his absence, than when he is present.
If you see the Chronical you may read the address of our Massachusets self created Society. It is much more respectfull and Modest than the Pennsilvania address, and is not badly pennd. I presume Morten was the draughtsman. It is however false, and artfull. I read it last Evening in my Neighbour Beats paper. They are all Galld that the President denounced them, but let any person attend to the horrid scenes produced in France by the unlawfull combinations of the worst and most profligate part of society, and say if the a similar spirit does not excite and actuate the Jacobins of America to insurgency
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and rebellion.
I have not heard from Mrs. Smith since November. Charles wrote me, but did not mention his sister. What is the proper address to our Son. How does the Secretary of State address his Letters. I have been writing to him, and addrest to JQA Minister Ressident Roc. Has a Minister Ressident the title of Excellency?
Remember me to Mrs. Otis and Cousin Betsy. Affectionatly Yours,
A Adams
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[Envelope -- see page image]
[Endorsement -- see page image]
