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Subject Area: Political Theory
Topic: The American Revolution and Constitution

TO S. DEXTER, SECRETARY OF WAR. - John Adams, The Works of John Adams, vol. 9 (Letters and State Papers 1799-1811) [1854]

Edition used:

The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a Life of the Author, Notes and Illustrations, by his Grandson Charles Francis Adams (Boston: Little, Brown and Co., 1856). 10 volumes. Vol. 9.

Part of: The Works of John Adams, 10 vols.

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TO S. DEXTER, SECRETARY OF WAR.

Quincy, 13 August, 1800.

Dear Sir,—

Last night I received your favor of the 4th, and have read the inclosures, all which I return to you. I will not object to the appointment of Mr. Foncin as one of the three. But I shall not appoint him first as long as Barron lives. If you can find another American mathematician better than Barron, it is well; if not, we will appoint him first teacher. I am well satisfied with the recommendation of Colonel David Vance and willing to appoint him, but I wish you to ask the opinion of Mr. Wolcott. In all business which involves expense, I love to consult the Secretary of the Treasury. My opinion is clear in favor of one commissioner rather than three,1 and Vance will be enough. I need say nothing about Bloody Fellow,2 Mr. McHenry,3 or Mr. Sevier, if we have but one. Would it be worth while to write to Presidents Willard, Dwight, Smith, Ewing, &c., to inquire after young mathematicians?

I am, Sir, with cordial esteem,

John Adams.

[1 ]To negotiate with the Southern Indians for some land.

[2 ]An Indian chief, whose evidence had been quoted in this case against Mr. Sevier.

[3 ]It is a singular fact that Mr. McHenry’s name does not appear in Mr. Dexter’s letter, among those recommended. The idea of giving him an appointment, mentioned by Mr. Wolcott as at first entertained by the President, seems to have been still cherished. In the meantime that gentleman was stimulating Mr. Wolcott to buckle on his armor, and complaining of everybody in any way attached to Mr. Adams. Gibbs’s Federal Administrations, vol. ii. p. 408.