John Adams to John Quincy Adams, July 20, 1787

London July 20. 1787

My dear Son,

We Suppose, that you had your Degree last Wednesday, and upon that Supposition, I
congratulate you upon it. it is hinted that you think of studying Law with Judge Dana
till next Spring. if you can have the Honour and the Priviledge of studying under, two
such great Masters as Judge Trowbridge and Judge Dana, I approve very much of the
design. 1 You cannot be in so good
hands. but will the Gentlemen of the Bar, be willing that you should enter, under the
Judge and compute your three Years from the time you begin?— You should be frugal of
that Article of time.— if you like it, I will take you into my own office, next June, by
which Time I expect to be at Braintree, and to undertake the Pleasing Office of
Preceptor to my own Sons, and perhaps you will find upon the whole as many Advantages in
this as in any other Plan.— I do not however mean, to divert you from your own Choice.—
At all Events I think you ought to be entered on the Books of the Bar, as a student as
early as possible.— 2 My love to your
Brothers.

John Adams