Abigail Adams to Thomas Boylston Adams, January 27, 1803

Quincy Jan ry 27 th 1803

Dear Thomas.

A little well timed and just criticism is sometimes very Salutary.
If I had not been conscious that I deserved Your Raillery I should have calld you a very
Sausy Lad. however I took it patiently, and have been more attentive since, as I Suppose
You have noticed; as to points & comma’s, I was not taught them in my youth, and I
always intend my meaning Shall be so obvious as that my readers
shall know where they ought to stop;

You have not written to your Father for so long a time, that I am
pained when I think of it— 1 You might
give him some information respecting your state politicks odious as they are; I was
delighted with the Editor of the united States Gazettes defence. it was a manly bold and
just representation of the Ruling powers; 2 whilst its truth & Justice was a two Edged Sword, neither Songs odes or
Metamorphosis’s have escaped me; tho I am deficient in my regular numbers of the port
folio; I know not how many.—

You have read your Brothers oration with pleasure I am Sure; were
he not my Son, I should say that I know not his Equal in the country for composition,
and for keen cutting classic Satire;

I have not yet heard from you Since my last Letter. 3 William Shaw may have a Letter for me. I Shall
know tomorrow—

I have had a very charming young Lady with me for more than a week.
can you guess who? four years ago she was here; not a word, not a hint, has past. I had
a Mind Your Father should see her. I think he likes her well; She is a Serious solid
sensible amiable woman— qualified I think to make a good wife— You will never meet with
any obsticals from me when ever you can see your way clear to support a family.—

adieu my dear son / may your happiness be equal to Your wishes /
Your affectionate / Mother

A Adams