1From John Adams to Charles Cushing, 19 October 1756 (Adams Papers)
I look upon myself obliged to give you the reasons that induced me to resolve upon the study and profession of the law, because you were so kind as to advise me to a different profession. When yours came to hand I had thoughts of preaching, but the longer I lived, and the more experience I had of that order of men, and of the real design of their institution, the more objections I found in my...
2From John Adams to Charles Cushing, 3 April 1756 (Adams Papers)
I had the Pleasure, a few Days since, of receiving your favour of February 4th. I am obliged to you for your advice, and for the manly and rational Reflections with which you inforced it. I think I have deliberately weighed the subject and had almost determined as you advise. Upon the Stage of Life, we have each of us a part, a laborious and difficult Part, to Act, but we are all capable of...