Adams, John (1735-1826) to Henry Channing re: Constitution
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07836 Author/Creator: Adams, John (1735-1826) Place Written: Quincy, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 1817/08/01 Pagination: 2 p. + FF 25 x 19.7 cm Order a Copy
Quincy August 1. 1817
Dear Sir
I thank you for your kind [illegible] of July 21 and its Enclosure, These papers would have Surprised me, if I had not witnessed a Series of such phonomena [sic] for Sixty years past.
Mr Bayard was critically Situated during his whole life, and has acted an [illegible] partm in one, at least of the most dangerous moments of our History. A part known only to himself and me. A part which preserved his Country from Civil War, and his Nation from division. Though he was an orator a Statesman and an amiable man his education and connections had given him too favourable an Opinion of the English Government and Nation. In his last moments he was convinced of it and wished to explain himself.
There is internal Evidence in Mr. Woolslon Papers, which no [illegible] but myself can explain, of Mr Bayards penitence in his last hours. I could explain to you in half an hour [insert: in conservation] what for want of Eyes and Fingers, I could not write in a Week.
I am xtremely [sic] sorry, shall J. L . has distinguished his Colleagues. They were all able men, and I doubt not all contributed to the great result: a result of which I do not believe J.L capable without the Apistance [sic]of his Colleagues.
The constitution of the U.S. and those of the individual States are all [illegible] of ambition; and long may they continue to be such: for our growth and Prosperity depend upon it our Squantum Sachems have buried the Hatchet. There let it remain, under a Rock. I know very nearly how long it will remain.
I have read ------------------------------------------------------ Digito complyce Lalellum.
With great esteem I am your Friend
John Adams
Henry Channing Esq
New London Connecticut
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