Diary of John Quincy Adams, volume 2
1787-08-24
I lodg'd last night with Lincoln, the senior, whose chum was out of town. Breakfasted this morning with Mr. Andrews, who returned from Hingham last evening. I visited Mr. James and Doctor Jennison: both were very polite. The Doctor informs me, that several material alterations are about to take place, with respect to the plan of studies pursued here. Doddridge, is to be put entirely into the hands of the theological professor, which is its proper place, and some attention to History is to be called forth by the recitations on Saturday mornings. The mathematics will be taught in better order than they have been heretofore, and indeed it always appear'd absurd to me, that Sophimores should study Euclid, and learn common arithmetic after they com-280mence Juniors. Henceforth arithmetic, with some little practical geometry, surveying, trigonometry &c are to be taught them before they begin upon Euclid—All the changes, which the doctor mentioned, will I think be for the better.
Dined with Mr. Andrews, and passed the afternoon at college.
Just as I was going in to prayers, I was stopped by a couple of french officers from on board the fleet now lying in Boston Harbour. They desired to see the colleges. I waited on them into the library, the museum and the philosophy chamber. After they had satisfied their curiosity, they set out for Boston, and I for Braintree. It was between six and seven o'clock before I got away, at about nine I arrived at Braintree, where I found all my friends well.
1787-08-25
In the forenoon I went to Weymouth, to return Dr. Tufts's horse. Dined at the Doctor's, and pass'd the afternoon there. Walk'd leisurely home, and arrived at about Sun-set.
This morning Mrs. Cranch and her son, went to Boston. My Cousin intends to read law with Mr. Dawes, and will enter his office next monday.
Very damp, sultry weather.
1787-08-26
I did not attend meeting this day—Employ'd myself chiefly in reading and writing. Mr. Weld preach'd for Mr. Wibird, and dined here. Miss Street and one of Captn. Beale's sons, with Mr. J. Warren dined with us likewise. In the evening Mrs. Cranch and Dr. Tufts return'd from Boston. My uncle Smith has been for some time very ill of a complication of disorders. The Doctor thinks he is at present better than he has been, but that the symptoms are yet dangerous.
Up late in consequence of an afternoon nap: read some poetry and some prose, in a cursory manner.
1787-08-27
I employ'd myself in the forenoon with making some necessary preparations before my final departure for Newbury-port. In the afternoon I accompanied the ladies to Mrs. Quincy's. Miss 281Nancy has been very ill, and is much thinner than when I saw her last. She is however recovering.
Pass'd an agreeable afternoon, and return'd home just after dark.