Stephen Peabody to Abigail Adams, January 10, 1799

Atkinson January 10 th. 1799—

Dear Madam

As you are frequently receiving letters from your good Sister, you
have in that channel all the news we have in this quarter. We are, at present enjoying a
good measure of health, tho’ the Season has been uncommonly severe. we have had a
greater quantity of snow upon the earth in these parts for a month or five weeks past,
than perhaps has ever been known so early in the Year.—

Mis s. Betsy Palmer has been with us a
number of weeks, and we are highly pleased with her. She is Sensible, industrious,
virtuous, very agreable; and appears to be just such a character as M rs. Peabody wanted. If she can make herself contented in this
Situation, I think we shall be happily suited.

Your grandsons are very well, and appear to enjoy themselves. They
are much more studious than they have been, and we are endeavoring to impress on their
minds the importance of their being prepared to provide for themselves, as you hinted in
your last letter to M rs. Peabody.—

We have heard but little from Congress, Since the President’s
Speech at the Opening of the Session; which is truely excellent, and approved by every
friend to the country. I received a letter from Gen ll. Wadsworth at Philadelphia lately, who says it was reported that there was a French
Frigate in the River on her way up with dispatches for our government. I think we shall
be prepared for them, as we have had such ample evidences of their deceit, and of the
absence of every principle of honor and integrity.— 1

Enclosed I send you the quarter Bill for boarding your grandsons.
M rs. Smith left me something more than to answer my
demands as you will see, for which I will account.— 2

I rejoice to hear of the recovery of your health. For the
confirmation of it would it not be advisable for you to take a Journey northward, as
soon as you can make it convenient? We should be very happy to see you
here. You will be so kind as to write frequently, and let me know, if you please,
whether Dexter, is gone on to Philadelphia, and if he is, whether he is doing well
there.—

M rs. Peabody joins me in presenting our
most affectionate regards to you, M r. and M rs. Cranch, and to our connexion’s with you.— With wishing the
Smiles of Heaven may accompany you thro’ life, I take the liberty to subscribe myself /
Your cordial friend, / and Brother—

Stephen Peabody