John W. Mulligan (April 13, 1774 – January 17, 1862) was an 18th-century attorney who had been Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben's secretary.
[3][4][5] The future president did not approve of the intense nature of their relationship and insisted that Adams and Mulligan split up.
Strength of mind in enfeebled by griefs of this nature; but, my friend, one ought not to suffer it to be entirely extinguished, for it is the duty of a sensible man to cherish the heavenly fire with which we are endowed by Providence.
Despite moral philosophy I weep with you, and glory in the human weakness of mingling my tears with those of a friend I so tenderly love.
In the midst of the attention and fetes which they have the goodness to give me, I enjoy not a moment's tranquility until I hold you in my arms.
"[3]Mulligan accepted the offer and continued to live with Steuben until the latter's death, acting as his secretary.
He became a principal source for Steuben's biography written by Friedrich Kapp in 1859: "I gratefully acknowledge the important services rendered to me by John W. Mulligan, Esq., with whom I have had the advantage of becoming intimately acquainted during the progress of this work.
Mulligan inherited Von Steuben's vast library, collection of maps and charts and $2,500 in cash.
[10] Another daughter, Elizabeth, married on October 6, 1838, in Athens to Edward Masson, Esquire of Scotland, late Attorney General of the Kingdom of Greece.