1To John Adams from Ralph Mather, 18 June 1800 (Adams Papers)
Persuaded from the religious and benevolent character which you have hitherto sustained, you’ll readily permit these lines to be read with your usual condescension and patience, I am the more induced to write you, the first Magistrate of the United States, in an open, explanatory and candid manner—I am well aware that letters of address and application must be numerous, perhaps often trying...