Collection includes manuscript letters from Abbot to former Harvard classmate Samuel Griffin. Also includes transcripts of several letters. Topics include personal matters and activities at Harvard and the Cambridge, Massachusetts area.

Letter from Samuel Griffin dated New York, April 4, 1802 to John Ambler in Williamsburg, Virginia. Griffin states that Ambler can continue in the house for the same rent as the previous year and may make any improvements he feels are necessary. Griffin writes that it will be acceptable to have Bowden (probably John Bowden who was a carpenter in Williamsburg) rebuild the front porch and that the necessary materials are available at the plantation or on the lot. Griffin thanks Ambler for the trouble he will be under to plant the poplars and asks if they can be extended around the stable lot. Griffin mentions the pears on the property and states that L. Tazewell can tell Ambler which pears are best.

Thanks him for offering congratulations and suggestions re hiring a private secretary. Comments on the true nature of French policy toward the U.S., which had been concealed from the American people.