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ALS signed “A. Adams,” one page, 7.5 x 9, May 15, 1805. Addressed from Quincy, a handwritten letter to her soon-to-be daughter-in-law, Ann Harrod, offering advice concerning her forthcoming marriage to her son, Thomas Boylston Adams. In full: “I received your Letter of May 6th, no apology was necessary for any delay of replie to mine. I enter fully into all your embarrassments. Time has not yet so silvered over my Locks, but that I can remember, 'I once was young.' I have regretted the obsticals which have heitherto impeded your union, with one whom I hope will render you happy, tho his situation is not what he could wish it to be. I feel desirous to remove all difficulties within my power. Your own observations my dear Ann, must have convinced you that no situation in Life is exempt from its cares, its anxieties, and perplexitys, nor will you expect that the important one, into which you are so soon to enter, will be without its share. It will render you, as Dr. Watts expresses it, but a ‘broader mark’ by developing new Duties, and new relations upon you. From the knowledge I have of your disposition, your Education and habits, I have the fullest assurance that you will discharge them in such a manner as to approve yourself to your own mind, and diffuse pleasure and happiness to all those who are connected with you. It would give me pleasure to sanction your union with my presence, but as that cannot be, receive the united Blessing of the parents of your Friend – and our best wishes that you may be blessed in each other. Louisa [wife of John Quincy Adams] joins her Love with ours, and pleads her lame arm, in excuse for not writing. – Most tenderly and affectionately.” The left margin bears remnants of the original wax seal. In fine condition, with a slightly trimmed bottom edge.
Written one day before Ann Harrod's marriage to Abigail and John Adams's youngest son, Thomas Boylston Adams, this warm and deeply personal letter finds Abigail welcoming her future daughter-in-law into the Adams family while reflecting on the responsibilities of married life. The letter also echoes Abigail's earlier endorsement of the match, in which she described Ann to Thomas as "a serious, solid, sensible, amiable woman" and assured him that he would "never meet with any obsticals from me whenever you can see your way clear to support a family." Unable to attend the ceremony, Abigail instead conveys the "united Blessing" of both parents, making the letter a heartfelt wedding benediction written on the eve of the marriage.
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