During his services in that body, he gave an indication of that independence, as a politician, which characterized him through life, by his opposition to a powerful combination of banking interests, which was effected among his immediate constituents.

Although his opposition was unavailing, yet it clearly showed that the integrity of the man was superior to the policy of the mere politician.

But higher honors awaited him.
In 1803, he was elected to the Senate of the United States, by the Legislature of Massachusetts.

Thus at the early age of thirty-six years, he had attained to the highest legislative body of the Union.

Young in years, but mature in talent and experience, he took his seat amid the conscript fathers of the country, to act a part which soon drew upon him the eyes of the nation, both in admiration and in censure.
The period of Mr.Adams' service in the United States Senate, was one in which the position and the interests of the country were surrounded by embarrassments and perils of the most threatening character.