John Adams to Benjamin Vaughan, November 20, 1791

Philadelphia Nov r: 20 th: 1791.

Dear Sir.

I am very much obliged to you for your kind letter by the Earl of Wycombe, a Nobleman who in his short visit to America, has acquired much esteem, and excited no regret but that his residence was no longer. M r: Hammond too has been publickly received, and will be much respected in his public, and greatly esteemed in his private character. 1 your letters Sir would have allways given me pleasure; and if my public engagements should not permit me to be so punctual a correspondent as I ought, I shall regret it as a misfortune. M r: Morris, Son of my Friend the Senator of the U. S. will probably deliver this.

Human nature since I left Europe, seems to have broken lose from its confinement. Pray will it run itsef out of breath like a young colt? Or what will happen? Will France crumble into 88 Independant Republics? Will the Families of Bourbon & Noailles go to War? or what? Or will the Nation have virtue and wisdom enough, to introduce a Respectable Senate into their constitution? I hope there is tolleration enough, if not Rights of Man enough, in this age to permit one to ask such questions, without danger of the Bastiles Inquisition or Lanterne. 2 My compliments to your family and believe me your friend / and hum. servant

J Adams