John Adams to Joseph, Jr Brown, November 8, 1791

Philadelphia Nov r: 8 th: 1791.

sir

By what accident it happened I know not, but your kind letter of the 6 th: of August, never came to my hand till the 7 th of this month of Nov r: before which time the vacancy in the Office of Collector of the port of Charleston was filled. 1 But if even that event had not happened it is probable that no representation of mine concerning a Gentleman in your State, of whose character and accomplishments & connections my knowledge must be very imperfect, would have had much weight with the President in comparison with the gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives from the neighborhood. I thank you Sir for your personal civilities to me. I doubt not America will continue to reward me as generously as she has
ever done. For my posterity I wish no other rewards or honors than their talents and virtues may merrit: from a free and enlightened people, and that the same rewards may be obtained by you, and every other worthy citizen, is the sincere wish of Sir, / Your most obed t: / and most humble ser t:

John Adams