Jedidiah Morse to John Adams, September 8, 1798

Charlestown Sep. 8th. 1798

Respected Sir

I am desired by President Dwight to forward you his excellent & seasonable discourses, whh are enclosed. I beg your acceptance of my Masonic Discourse written & preached since the offensive Fast Sermon was published, & whh affords further evidence that it was not my intention to attack Free Masonry .—When this sermon was written I did not know that persecution was among the Masonic virtues . I have yet to learn the real cause of their (the Free Masons) general & virulent attack upon me. < , Start deletion, As it respects them, , End, > I am shielded against their arrows, by a conscience void of offence as far as respects them.

I am truly rejoyced to hear of the Convalescent State of Mrs Adams, & hope her health will very soon be perfectly restored.

With my best respects to Mrs Adams I subscribe, with the highest & most / Sincere esteem, your most / Obedt Servt

Jedh Morse