Diary of Charles Francis Adams, volume 7
1836-12-14
Mild with occasional drops of rain. I went to the Office. Put my scattering papers in order. Nothing material. Called upon T. K. Davis and discussed the letter of Mr. Biddle which certainly is a powerful paper. It is likely to produce a good deal of effect upon the Community. I do not know what to think of political affairs at present. I wish the Whigs of this State were not such a miserable set. As it is, I think I shall have to continue in moderate support of the Administration unless they act so that I cannot conscientiously do so.
Home. Livy, finishing the thirty fifth book. The gradual subjection of Greece is described in a manner not very easily misunderstood. Livy however writes the Roman Account. Afternoon rather short, Mr. Walsh having dined here. Read a little of Swift. Evening reading to my Wife and finished my letter to my father.
1836-12-15
A clear and colder day but not unpleasant. I went to the Office and was occupied as usual, Diary and Accounts. Collected the last Dividends probably due this year and received from Mr. Ladd the last rent. So that I can proceed directly to drawing the accounts. Mr. Everett came in and we had a talk about various matters of politics. He and I agree pretty well in our opinions. The course at Washington seems to be as yet not known. But evidently there is to be a powerful opposition.
Walk with Mr. Walsh and home. Afternoon so short, I had time to do nothing excepting to copy my letter to my father which is not worth sending.1 Evening at home reading to my Wife, after which President Goguet.
To JQA, 15 Dec., Adams Papers.
1836-12-16
A clear cool day. I went to the Office. Time taken up in making up an Account for T. B. Adams and writing him a letter.1 I have been waiting for some time for the remittance promised by him but am tired and go on without it. Diary.
Walk with Mr. Walsh, then home. Livy. Afternoon, copying my letter. Mr. Price Greenleaf from Quincy gave me a call which occupied me the daylight. He is much as usual, talkative and communicative. Evening partly at home, partly at Mr. Brooks where there was a small 148company of the family including Mr. and Mrs. Parkman and Mrs. Hall of Medford.2 Nothing of interest.
I do not know when it has been that my Diary is more thoroughly devoid of interest, but so it is. Monotony personified.
To Lt. T. B. Adams, 16 Dec., LbC, Adams Papers.
Mrs. Francis Parkman, the former Caroline Hall, was the daughter of Nathaniel and Joanna Cotton (Brooks) Hall. Mrs. Hall was a sister of Peter C. Brooks. Mr. Parkman was the minister of the New North Church, Hanover Street; he and his wife were the parents of the eminent historian