To Thomas Jefferson from John Adams, 20 February 1801
From John Adams
Washington Feb. 20. 1801
Sir
In order to save you the trouble and Expence of purchasing Horses and Carriages, which will not be necessary, I have to inform you that I shall leave in the stables of the United States seven Horses and two Carriages with Harness the Property of the United States. These may not be suitable for you: but they will certainly save you a considerable Expence as they belong to the studd of the Presidents Household.
I have the Honor to be with great respect, Sir your most obedient and humble Servant
John Adams
RC (Amor Hollingsworth, Boston, 1951); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqr Vice President of the United States and President Elect for four years from the 4 of March next”; endorsed by TJ as received 21 Feb. and so recorded in SJL. FC (Lb in MHi: Adams Papers).
When the House of Representatives discussed appropriations for the president’s household on 2 Mch., Joseph Varnum and Samuel Smith expressed dismay that Adams had bought the horses and vehicles with funds approved for furnishings. Congress, by an act approved the next day, determined that all items in the president’s household other than furniture should be sold, along with any furniture not fit for use, and the proceeds combined with appropriations to purchase additional furniture ( , 10:1070–1; , 2:121–2; , 4:41).