The nomination was confirmed by the Senate, but he declined its acceptance.
A circumstance occurred at this time, which attracted the attention of Mr.
Adams.

The Russian Minister of the Interior, then advanced in years, having received many valuable presents while in office, became troubled with scruples of conscience, in regard to the disposal he should make of them.

He at length calculated the value of all his gifts, and paid the sum into the imperial treasury.

This transaction made a deep impression on Mr.
Adams, and probably led him to the resolution of never accepting gifts.

In order to act with that freedom of bias which he deemed indispensable to the faithful discharge of public duty, he endeavored to avoid, as far as possible, laying himself under obligations to any man.