John Adams to John Quincy Adams, April 28, 1782

[ , Start insertion, Amsterdam, 28 April 1782 , End, ] 1

My Child

Yours of March 20/31 I have received.

I am well pleased with your learning German for many Reasons, and principally because I am
told that Science and Literature flourish more at present in Germany than any where. A Variety
of Languages will do no harm unless you should get an habit of attending more to Words than
Things.

But, my dear Boy, above all Things, preserve your Innocence, and a pure Conscience. Your
morals are of more importance, both to yourself and the World than all Languages and all
Sciences. The least Stain upon your Character will do more harm to your Happiness than all
Accomplishments will do it good.—I give you Joy of the safe Arrival of your Brother, and the
Acknowledgment of the Independance of your Country in Holland. Adieu.