To John Adams from Robert Stevens, Jr.

Judging that your known goodness will pardon this intrusion—I take the freedom to apologise for not calling to have taken leave, as was my intention.—receiving a letter from my Father stating a sudden indisposition of my Mother, I left every other consideration, and after an absence of 4 years & 1 month, arrived only in time to close the eyes of my tender & revered parent; this was all that was permitted me, to do for her, who had done so much for me; her reason had departed, She did not! could not be made to know me!

In case Sir, you should so far incline to favor my views, as to grant me a line to the Executive, its importance would be great and I should endeavor by my conduct, to prove my gratitude commensurate with your kindness. As I cannot be known to you Sir, I will request Mr B Jay to state to you my character. With the greatest respect to your family—I have the honor to assure you I am Sir—Y M O & H St