Every volume of the Adams Papers benefits greatly from the assistance of many people beyond the editors.

We particularly appreciate the efforts of several members of the Adams Papers staff past and present, including former transcriber Nathaniel Adams; James Connolly and Amanda Mathews, our current transcribers; Judith S. Graham, former editorial assistant and current editor of the Louisa Catherine Adams diaries; and Sara Martin, assistant editor. All of them provided invaluable help with the preparation of materials for this and future volumes of the Adams Family Correspondence and assisted with the production of this book. They pitched in with grace and good humor on a wide array of tasks large and small, always with care and great skill.

Our copyeditor Ann-Marie Imbornoni reviewed the entire manuscript with her usual precision and consideration, saving us from any number of embarrassing errors.

Many people contributed to the research behind this book. We particularly wish to thank Edward B. Doctoroff, Head of the Library Privileges and Billing Division at Harvard's Widener Library; and the reference staffs at Harvard University's Houghton, Lamont, and Widener libraries, the Rare Books and Manuscripts Department at the Boston Public Library, and the New England Historic Genealogical Society.

As with previous volumes, Kevin and Kenneth Krugh of Technologies ‘N Typography in Merrimac, Massachusetts, ably typeset the volume. At Harvard University Press, we thank John F. Walsh, Associate Director for Design and Production; Abigail Mumford, Production Supervisor; and Kathleen McDermott, Senior Editor in History and the Social Sciences, for their continuing assistance with the publication, marketing, and sales of this book and all Adams Papers titles.

The Massachusetts Historical Society continues to provide this project with the use of its unrivaled collections and the support of its knowledgeable staff. In particular, we thank Dennis A. Fiori, President; Peter Drummey, Stephen T. Riley Librarian; Conrad E. Wright, Worthington C. Ford Editor; Brenda M. Lawson, Director of Collections Services; Mary E. Fabiszewski, Senior Cataloger; Nancy Heywood, Digital Projects Coordinator; and all of the members of the Library—Reader Services department. Finally, we also greatly appreciate the ongoing contributions made by the Adams Papers Administrative Committee to the success of this project.