John Adams to Smith Thompson, November 18, 1821

Montizillo 18 Nov 1821

Sir

Although the writer of the inclosed letter is as unknown to me as any stripling in the moon, the < , Start deletion, nassiete , End, > naievty of it has induced me to transmit it to you. As we are told, that the conqueror of the world might have been but the first wrestler on the green; so I presume that < , Start deletion, the , End, > some first wrestler< , Start deletion, s , End, > on the green might have < , Start deletion, been , End, > become conqueror< , Start deletion, s , End, > of the world. Who knows but that this child may be destined to become a Perry? That he should have conceived the thought of writing to me is such an oddity as to have excited me to amuse you with the curiosity of it, especially as it gives me an opportunity of expressing, the high esteem & respect I entertain for your character

I am Sir &c—