Joshua Johnson to John Quincy Adams, July 19, 1797

Coopers Row. 19 July 1797.

Dear Sir

In consequence of what M rs. Johnson
tells me, had passed between you & her on Sunday, I am induced to believe that a
matter of Delicacy on your part retards your Union with my Child. the uncertainty how
long you may remain here, together with the shortness of my stay makes me ardently wish
to see it compleated, do not then lose sight of personal happiness, by the supposition
that the request made by her Mother (to make my House your Home) can possibly be
attended with the slightest inconveniency, on the contrary, believe me that your
acceptance (en Familli) of the small comforts we have to bestow, will diffuse general
Joy & Delight through our little Circle. Any Embarassments you may […] attendant on
your private business, will be easily obviated by devoteing (should
you prefer it) your Mornings or any part of the Day at your present aboade—

I have been thus particular, in order to prevent your haveing an
Idea that you will not be perfectly free from restraint, from the pleasure you will
recive in takeing her, will be but Judged, my feeling, at parting with her, the goodness
of your Heart, will lead you to believe, that being a Witness to her happiness during
her stay here will in some degree tend to allevete the pangs of seperation. That those
sentiments may be riciprocal is the sincerest wish of my. / Dear Sir / Your truly
Affectionate

Joshua Johnson

P.S. If you have no Engagement I shall be happy to see you an
hour before Dinner Tomorrow as I want to consult you on some affairs of my own 1