John Adams to John Jay, December 20, 1790

Philadelphia Dec r 20. 1790

Dear Sir

Permit me in this Severe Season, to Salute your fireside, and
congratulate you on your return from the Northern Circuit. 1

As the time approaches when We are to expect the Pleasure of Seeing
you at the Supream Court in Philadelphia, you will give me leave to solicit the Honour
and the Pleasure of your Company and that of M rs Jay, and
whoever else of the Family who may accompany you, at Bush Hill, during the time you may
have occasion to Stay at Philadelphia.

This Satisfaction I have here requested as a favour, in hopes that
there will be no Hesitation or Delicacy, to prevent you from readily granting it: but if
I should be mistaken in this hope I shall certainly demand it as a right: because the
Rights of Hospitality are not only Sacred but reciprocal.

As you are a Roman, the Jus Hospitii will not be disputed by You:
and as I wish that I was one, I shall respect it and claim it.— We have an handsome and
convenient Room and Chamber, and a decent Bed at your Service; and instead of the
smallest Inconvenience to Us, you will confer a real Obligation, on M rs Adams who joins with me in the request, to Yourself and
M rs Jay, and on your assured Friend and / humble
servant

John Adams