56. A Little Letter from a Future President
BY JOHN QUINCY ADAMS (1774)[152]
I have been trying ever since you went
away to learn to write you a letter. I shall make
poor work of it; but, sir, mamma says you will accept my endeavors,
and that my duty to you may be expressed in poor writing as well as
good. I hope I grow a better boy, and that you will have no occasion to
be ashamed of me when you return. Mr. Thaxter says I learn my books
well. He is a very good master. I read my books to mamma. We all
long to see you.
I am, sir, your dutiful son,
JOHN QUINCY ADAMS.
[[152]]
The boy was then only seven years
old.