Diary of Charles Francis Adams, volume 5
1833-04-03
Out early this morning to make arrangements and draw Money from the Bank in order to go to Quincy. Started at ten and got there in an hour—My horse being very lively. Walked to Mrs. Adams’. Settled Affairs with her though Elizabeth being out, I did not see her. Then back to the old Mansion where I saw painter and carpenter, and gave the necessary orders for the little Repairs which I contemplate executing this Spring.1 Saw Carr the Tenant and endeavoured to be looking out after a man.2 On the whole I did as much today as I expected, and even more, for my time was very limited.
Returned home to dinner. The ride out had been delicious, but my return was in one of the Easterly breezes which are cheerless enough. After dinner, finished Gui Joli and was glad enough so to do. I shall stop here with that pursuit. What to take up next is the question? Evening quiet at home. The Merry Wives. Omitted German and read the Account of the French Revolution. There is nothing new in it, excepting the statement of the utter ignorance in which the King and the Ministers appear to have been of the public feeling. If not so clearly vouched it would appear utterly incredible.
Among CFA’s responsibilities as JQA’s agent in managing his properties in Boston and Quincy was maintaining the Old House in good repair and preparing it each year for occupancy by the family upon their return from Washington.
In addition to the Old House, JQA’s lands in Quincy, inherited from JA, included the farm at the foot of Penn’s Hill and a tract at Mount Wollaston. John G. Carr was the latest in a series of tenants (see vol. 3:38, 186; 4:249, 261).