1Abigail Adams to Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody, 13 February 1798 (Adams Papers)
any person at all conversant in the world must be stupid indeed not to take an interest in the Great Events which are now acting upon the Theater of the World, particuliarly the French revolution which astonishes the universe. I know not how better to describe it than in the words of a late writer...of Peacefeild, Secured from the Noise of the World, its power and ambition. Publick...
2Abigail Adams to Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody, 30 December 1798 (Adams Papers)
...advantage, that their ambition and emulation may be, which shall make the greatest proficiency in their several studies. they know not what is before them. they may have to struggle their own way through the world, without the Gifts of fortune, dependant only upon their own industery and talants. I wish this Idea imprest upon their mind’s if they can get an Education, it is the most I see...
3Abigail Adams to Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody, 4 February 1800 (Adams Papers)
..., and the Sigh which sometimes burst forth in silence, too well informs me of the reflections within—and wound me to the Heart. You cannot wonder my dear sister that in the midst of Laughter, as to the World it seem’s, the Heart is sad. every one knows their own bitterness.— Should our Lives be continued a few more Years—still it may not be in a situation which will enable us to render the...
4Abigail Adams to Elizabeth Smith Shaw Peabody, 16 April 1800 (Adams Papers)
enthusiasm of youth, and teach them to view the world as it really is, and humane nature as it will be found, full of imperfections, much to forgive & much to be forgiven— Youth is the season for joy, for hope, for pleasure & for improvement;