Samuel A Otis to John Adams, November 16, 1796

Philad a Nov r 16 th 1796

Sir

After an agreeable journey we arrived here in the midst of Election, and by lies abuse & bribery the disorganizers will carry their tickets thro the State. This I supposed with the efforts of Massachusetts Jacobins would have given Jefferson the vote. But old Samuels defeat which I think but a prelude to his overthrow, has revived my hopes. The N o of Votes 138,70 makes a Majority—

This gives 6 votes to spare, and which tis not supposeable Jefferson can obtain. I presume further that these 76 contain 7/8 ths the honesty & property, & 4/5 ths of the good sense of the Nation— 1

Ben. Beach informs us that the functions of the French Minister cease from this time. This altho Beach says it may be true. 2 Perhaps ’tis only a prelude to a new appointment, or an attempt to bully us into a quarrell, or preparatory to hostilities. Everything has been done by our patriots to embroil us with France, and they can by no means be charged with remissness if they do not succeed. I hope & pray however for the peace of our Jerusalem—

The President US is in Town with M rs Washington. They made kind enquiries after you and M rs Adams, & appear to contemplate retirement with pleasure. 3 After such a scene of anxiety & labour and at their time of life I dont wonder at it.

Your friends hope you will be here early in the Session as it will inevitably be a short one. The town is quite healthy, altho the weather is mild, & the drought sharp beyond anything known at any season of the year.

M rs Otis & Miss Harriet join in respects to yourself & lady.

I have the honor to be / Sir / Your most obedent / humble Ser t

Sam A: Otis