In September 1802 at Peacefield, Abigail and John learn of a scandal accusing President Thomas Jefferson of fathering a child with an enslaved woman, Sally Hemings. John and Abigail are initially appalled and disbelieve the news, which is being printed by a newspaperman named James Callender, whom John despises. During a family discussion, however, their son John Quincy Adams reveals that Callender is likely attacking Jefferson out of revenge. He explains that Jefferson had previously paid Callender to publish attacks against John Adams during his presidency. After Jefferson pardoned Callender for sedition, he refused to grant the newspaperman a government post, prompting Callender to retaliate. John Adams vehemently denies that Jefferson would orchestrate such attacks, ultimately arguing that Jefferson’s refusal to give Callender a post is “evidence of virtue rather than corruption.” (376) The conversation leaves Abigail unsettled as she recalls Sally Hemings from their time in London.

In the spring of 1804, Abigail learns that Jefferson’s youngest daughter, Polly, has died in childbirth. The news revives Abigail’s own grief over Charles. Moved, she secretly writes a letter of condolence to President Jefferson. His reply, while warm at first, infuriates her by stating that he “forgave” John for his “midnight appointments” of federal officials at the end of his term.