1To James Madison from Francis Corbin, 20 October 1816 (Madison Papers)
Some years ago a Pipe of my Port Wine strayed up to Alexandria instead of being landed at Norfolk. As it was troublesome to get it round, and I knew it to be superiour to any that could be imported in the ordinary way, I offered it to General Washington and Mr. Fitzhugh at prime Cost, charges &c. The latter took it and divided it. It proved to be as I expected, & they wished for more. A...
2To James Madison from William Lowndes, 20 October 1816 (Madison Papers)
I feel very sensibly the honor which you do me in offering me the charge of the War-department & am still more flattered by the expressions of personal regard contained in your letter. A preference however for the situation which I now fill (among other reasons because it allows me to apply a portion of the year to the care of my private affairs) will make me decline that which you have...