James Madison Papers

Joseph C. Cabell to James Madison, 27 February 1829

Richmond. 27 Feb. 1829.

Dear Sir,

I am now able to furnish the information you lately desired relative to the authority on which the Editor of the Enquirer stated in that paper some time ago that you and Mr. Jefferson were privy to the publication to the piece written by Mr. Pendleton signed or headed "The Danger not over". At my request Genl. Dade last evening made the enquiry of Mr. Ritchie: who said he would willingly give the information desired, and correct any error that the statement might contain. Mr. R. said that the publication alluded to was extracted from a letter which he received from Mr. William Pollard Senr. (now or lately) Clerk of Hanover County. If the publication was not an extract, the expressions of the letter writer were used by the Editor.

It has occurred to me that possibly some of your neighbours or young relatives might be desirous to procure & distribute some of the pamphlets containing your letters and an Appendix. Should such enquiries be made, you would be authorized to say in reply, that they may be had of G. W. White Printer in Richmond at the subjoined prices.* I am dear Sir, most respectfully & truly yours

Joseph C. Cabell.

* 100 Copies & more....................3 1/2 cents each.

50...................................5

25...................................6 1/4

12...................................8 1/4

Less than 12.........................12 1/2

P. S. It may not be amiss for me to mention that I caused one copy of the pamphlet to be delivered in my name to each of the Senators, whilst the Resolutions were before that body. But none were sent to the members of the House of Delegates, and by my advice, the printer did not carry any into the Lobby—but only made known informally that they might be had at his printing office or at Nash’s bookstore. I did this, to prevent all possibility of the imputation of any interference with the members, to influence them by great names. I do not think that any man of truth would have penned the article in the Enquirer stating that these letters had been paraded here in pamphlet form. In regard to appearances, this has been the most studied caution & delicacy: insomuch that members have repeatedly asked me where the pamphlet could be procured & why I did not cause it to be brought into the Lobby? I knew full well that the vile slanderers would immediately raise a hue & cry. But I have not been, and shall not be, diverted from the execution of my purpose. I am now boxing up hundreds for my district: & they are going off by the members in many directions.

RC (DLC). Docketed by JM.

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