Adams, John (1735-1826) to Richard Cranch
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03759 Author/Creator: Adams, John (1735-1826) Place Written: The Hague, Netherlands Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 14 May 1784 Pagination: 2 p. + docket 18.8 x 23.2 cm Order a Copy
Written as ambassador at The Hague, Adams discusses waiting for his family to arrive and how walking six or seven miles per day has helped him overcome the "Disorders into which Voyages Journeys and too much application had thrown me." He concludes by mentioning Mr. Tyler, who was involved with courting a woman. Cranch was the husband of Abigail Adam's sister; Adams greets him as "dear brother."
The Hague May 14, 1784
My dear Brother
I am here in anxious Expectation of the Arrival of my Family, which I hope are coming in Calahan. When I Shall have the Happiness to See you I know not, but I think it probable I Shall remain here until I return to America, as We learn nothing of any determinations of Congress. Mrs. & Miss. Adams will not be Sorry to have made a Trip to the Hague provided they are not obliged to Stay long, and one year I fancy will Suffice them. But it is not for Mortals to forces, future Events, or to lay plans with any Certainty. By an obstinate Perseverance in Europe, walking, at least Six or Seven miles a day, I have got the better of the Disorders [2] into which Voyages Journeys and too much application had thrown me. But I dare not depend on the fourth nuance of March.
I wrote you Sometime ago, an Answer to Mr. Tyler, to whom present my Regards. I must Submit to Providence, the Protestions of this Gentle man and the Lady he Solicits, and doubt nothing will Succeed very well in Life: But I don't know when nor where, they will meet again. They must concert their own Plan, with the Advice of their Friends
Your affectionate Brother
John Adams
My Duty to my Mother, and affections to all
Mr. Cranch
[Docket]
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