Adams Family Correspondence, volume 11
th1796
Permit me to felicitate you on your appointment to the Court of Lisbon which pleasing intelligence I received since my last was written1 I learn from our friend Mr: Hall that it is probable you will return I think I need not tell you how much it will contribute to my happiness to see you yet should you not wish me to accompany you I must entreat you will take another route though I confess I see no obstacle which can prevent it but submit to your superior judgement believe me I felt our parting too acutely to risk another and could hear of your departure with less pain than I could witness it I flatter myself I need not repeat how much I am your sincere and affectionate friend
RC (Adams Papers).
LCA almost certainly learned of JQA’s appointment to Lisbon from Joseph Hall, who received the news upon Rufus King’s arrival in London on 23 July. Hall wrote to JQA on 24 July informing him of the appointment and offering his congratulations; he noted, “As a diplomatic advancement it gives me pleasure. As tending to enlarge the distance between us I regret it” (Adams Papers).