1James Madison to Thomas W. Griffith, 22 September 1830 (Madison Papers)
I have recd Sir, your letter of the 16th with the printed observations enclosed. I feel the respect due to the friendly sentiments it expresses; but I must decline the task you mark out for me. If I had not already had occasion to make public, my general views of the power of Congs. on the subject of encouraging Manufactures, and the principles, which ought to regulate the exercise of it, I...
2James Madison to [Thomas Waters Griffith], 22 September 1831 (Madison Papers)
I have recd. Sir your letter of the 16th. with the printed observations inclosed. I feel the respect due to the friendly sentiments it expresses; but must decline the task you mark out for me. If I had not already had occasion to make public my general views of the power<s> of Congress on the subject of encouraging manufactures, & the general principles which ought to regulate the exercise of...
3James Madison to Thomas W. Griffith, 5 February 1833 (Madison Papers)
I have recd. your letter of enclosing a sketch of numerous amendments which you think are required by the Constitution of the U.S. I am duly sensible to the respect you manifest for my opinions on such subjects. But mere opinions, without a full view of the reasons for them could be of little value; and this is a task which in my enfeebled condition and in the midst of other demands on the...