Discusses inoculation and the "accidental discovery" of Dr. [Edward] Jenner, points out that one hundred years ago Adams's uncle [Zabdiel] Boylston introduced inoculation in America, and comments on human ignorance; gives grandfatherly advice.
Informs him that a privateer commanded by Capt. [John] Manly captured a British brig [the Nancy] that was laden with almost every kind of ordnance that is needed and describes the cargo; mentions that the new regiments fill up slowly and that many men are determined to leave the service; informs him that the enemy in Boston moved all their cannon to oppose the Americans on Cobble Hill; informs him about conferences on the lines that are "very Friendly in Appearance," about the arrival of American reinforcements, about prices of provisions, and about a general inoculation for smallpox in Boston; mentions that Gen. [ John] Burgoyne will return to England.
