In his letter of March 14, 1814, John Adams warns against the natural tendency of those in power to expand their authority. He cautions against mistaking novelty for true progress, urging leaders to ensure that change serves the public good. Adams also expresses concern about how history is written, recognizing that future generations may receive a distorted view of events. His letter is a fascinating meditation on leadership, governance, and historical truth, reminding us of the challenges inherent in preserving both liberty and an accurate record of the past.