Mary Otis Lincoln to Abigail Adams, March 11, 1804

Cambridge March the 11 1804

My Dr Madam—

I live in that retired manner that affords much time for
reflection, which must be my apology for addressing you at this time, as memory has been
so kind as to present you very frequently of late as one that has ever taken an interesd
in my welfare. And I can say that Friendship has indeed been the Wine of life to me. I
feel that you are not indefferent to the happiness of me
and my dear Children and that you will be pleased to hear from me that health has smiled
on my habitation this winter and that I every day rejoice that I did not continue at
Hingham while my Sons were at College. 1

I wish very much to see you which I can not at present—I expect to
visit Hingham next month and, it will not be my fault if I do not pay my respects to
you. I was sorry to hear some time since by My Aunt Otis that you had been afflicted
with the rheumatism but I hope ere this it has departed and that you are able to
ride. 2 At the same time I rejoiced with
you that you have the addition of a beloved Son to your social board. I dare say he has
very little if any recollection of me. I have a very pleasing remembrase of him and will
thank you to say with my compliments that should he visit this seat of Science I shall
be happy to see him at my house.

With affectionate respects / to the President I am as ever / Your
obliged and affectionat / friend.

Mary Lincoln Jnr