Adams, John Quincy (1767-1848) to Ward N. Boyston re: history of the Boylston family and letter to his father
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02793.018 Author/Creator: Adams, John Quincy (1767-1848) Place Written: Quincy Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 1826/08/14 Pagination: 1 p. 25 x 20 cm Order a Copy
Written as President, shortly after the death of his father.
Ward N. Boylston Esqr. Princeton.
Quincy 14 August 1826.
My dear Sir.
A short time before my sudden departure from Washington, I received a very kind Letter from you, with a small volume, and an interesting account of the family of Boylston. -- While I was postponing an Answer to it with a view to make some further enquiries, to tax again your indulgence, a melancholy summons called me away at so short notice that I forgot even to take your Letter and minutes with me. Soon after my arrival here your Letter to my lamented father of the 26th of June last, enclosing your biographical account of Dr. Zabdiel Boylston was put into my hands, which I have read and reperused with great Satisfaction. I now return it as you requested of my father, and hope you will forward it for publication in Dr. Thacher's work. The memory of such a benefactor to mankind as Dr. Boylston, ought not to be suffered to slumber in oblivion. -
You have noted that Mr. John Boylston who died at Both in 1795. was his only Son. I observe that in the Harvard College Catalogue, there was a Zabdid Boylston, who was graduated in 1724 and 2. I conclude He was of the same family.
I have had the pleasure of hearing from you recently by Mr. Quincy and rejoice to learn that you and Mr. Boylston were both well. I hope yet to pass a day or two with you before my return to Washington, towards the close of next Month or the beginning of October. Mean time I remain with kindest regards to Mr. Boylston
Affectionately yours. John Quincy Adams.
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