Adams Family Correspondence, volume 11
post 8 February 1797]
I received last Evening Your kind Letter of Febry 8th. I thank you for your congratulation, and kind wishes
To be the Successor of Mrs Washington and to make good her place will be an arduous task. I can only Say that my Sincerest Wishes will be joined With my best endeavours to give offence to no one & satifaction to all.
I have amidst many gloomy reflections, receivd pleasure from the thought of having So near a relative and valuable a Friend near me, whose tender care & kind Solisitude I had experienced on the Bed of Sickness, and to whom I could communicate my thoughs without that reserve, which my situation will require.
Your kind offers I May have occasion for, but as yet I know what will be necessary. I would not wish to make a journey this Spring to return in the heat of the Season if mr Adams can dispence with my attendance. I had rather go on in Sep’br but I shall consult his wishes and convenience all together. I will thank You if you can inform me what Number of Domesticks the Presidents Household consisted of. how many female Servants? I can carry four from hence. I should then want a good housekeeper
My Health has been better through the winter than usual I have not been without mementoes of Reumatism Since Feb’ry came in.
My Regards to mr Otis & Love to miss Harriot & Mary from / Your affec
Dft (Adams Papers); notations by CFA: “Copy. Mrs S. A. Otis.” and “Quincy. 1797.”
On the last page of the Dft, AA wrote, “who that has a private Friend who has served them many Years devoting their time and talents to promote their interest, even to the loss and prejudice of their own private emolument.”