1To James Madison from Thomas Ritchie, 8 September 1821 (Madison Papers)
I know not whether I can take the liberty of writing you on the subject of this letter; but I have had so many proofs of your goodness towards me, that I am tempted to address you. Whatever be your reply, I pledge myself not to abuse your confidence. If you wish me not to speak of it, I pledge myself not to do so. I have long understood—and within the last 12 months from a mutual friend—that...
2To James Madison from Thomas Ritchie, 7 August 1822 (Madison Papers)
My own indisposition, and the melancholy succession of calamities which has befallen the family of Dr. Foushee, have prevented my earlier acknowledgment of your respected favor. My wish too to oblige an interesting stranger would have prompted me to attend sooner to his application, if these circumstances had not intervened. It is my candid opinion, that Mr. Spafford’s Gazetteer for Virginia...
3To James Madison from Thomas Ritchie, 10 December 1825 (Madison Papers)
Do not be surprised at receiving this Letter. I have been frequently tempted to appeal to your judgment, and ask your Advice. Not a dark Cloud has come over the public horizon, but I have turned towards you as a ⟨sort?⟩ of last resource. My profound reverence for you as a Politician, and my unfeigned regard for you as a man, have impelled my thoughts in that direction: but to this moment I...