James Madison Papers

From James Madison to Charles Simms, [post 23] August 1791

To Charles Simms

Philada. [post 23] Augst. 1791.

Dear Sir

This will be handed you by Mr. Childs who solicits subscriptions to a new Gazette to be edited from his press by Mr. Freneau. The plan being inclosed speaks its own merits. Those of Mr. Childs are vouched by the character & success of a paper which has been for a long time published by him in N. York. With Mr. Freneau I have been long and intimately acquainted. He is a man of genius, of extensive literature, of experience in the conduct of a periodical paper, and of great integrity. These qualifications promise a new vehicle of information to the public which has the best pretensions to its patronage. I take the liberty of asking yours not only from a persuasion that in bestowing it you will aid a very useful undertaking, but from a desire of testifying my esteem & friendship for Mr. Freneau by contributing to render his profits as commensurate as possible to his merits. With much esteem & regard I am Sir your Obedt. & hble servt.

Js. Madison Jr

RC (PHC). Addressed by JM to Simms at Alexandria. Conjectural date assigned on the basis of JM’s arrival in Philadelphia from New York circa 23 Aug. (Jefferson to JM, 18 Aug. 1791).

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