Louisa Catherine Johnson to John Quincy Adams, March 20, 1797

London March 20 th 1797

I have recieved your letter of the 6 which gave me infinite
satisfaction your approbation love and esteem being my greatest ambition and
delight—

My father talks of embarking early in July and preparations are
making for our removal— 1 I almost wish
the time was arrived— though I know the advantages resulting from it, to the whole
family, I cannot help regreting the necessity, of our renewed seperation however I know it must be, my friend, and though a kind of
forced philosophy, I endeavor to be contented—

I presume M r. Humphrys does not regret
his detension at Lisbon, as it certainly must be more agreeable to him, to remain some
time with his Lady’s family, after his marriage, than to quit the Country
immediately— 2

I have lately been reading Lord Chesterfields letters to his
Son, 3 and think them very good, though
he does mention the Ladies with so much severity—I cannot say I admire his sentiments
altogether, they were written by a courtier, and addressed to one whom he intended
should be the same. therefore I am not able to judge how proper such sentiments may be
in such a situation— I dare say you have read them, and I should like to hear your
opinion—

All the family desire to be remembered, and my father wishes to
know, if you would have any letters, he may recieve for you, forwarded by the Mails, as
he says they sometimes remain with him a considerable time, for want of private
opportunities—

Present my respects to your brother, and be assured, I shall
invariably remain, your tenderly attached,

Louisa. C. Johnson