November 22nd, 1797


Dearest John,

My heart is with you at this very moment as I sit down to write this
letter. I hope that you will take this opportunity to articulate the
importance of this day. I am also relieved that despite the previous
events leading up to your speech that your address can take place in
Philadelphia rather than having to move the legislature. I do wish
that those who have been afflicted have been privy to better wellness.

I agree with you that although the current discussion with the French
has taken a direction towards progress, I believe we must remain
focused on the state of our commerce in this country. As I read
through your words that you have prepared for the State of the Union
address, the thoughts you spoke regarding the established Indian lands
resonated. I do believe that the recent events of the Passamaquoddy
Bay meeting last October have resulted in a resolution of the St.
Croix river survey but you are correct to allow more time for the
commisssioners to complete this analysis. Furthermore, it is a wise
decision to postpone the next meeting until June in Providence. The
weather is starting to turn much colder and I fear that many of our
fall crops might not sustain us through the winter months.

As I also think towards the long, dark and lonely nights ahead I wish
that we were together on this day, my birthday. I do long for the
quiet times where we were able to discuss these matters in
confidentiality. Please remember that you have a duty to fulfill your
position as our leader, however as I look back on the last fifty three
years that I have experienced, I count each blessing for it has
provided me with the wisdom and insight that I need to continue.

I think of you always.
Most fondly, your faithful wife -

Abigail