James Madison Papers
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https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Madison/02-01-02-0530

To James Madison from Albert Gallatin, 12 July 1801

From Albert Gallatin

Treasury Department 12th July 18⟨01⟩

Sir

The abuse complained of by the Collector of Norfolk in the enclosed letter,1 which I have the honor to return, may be corrected by an altera⟨tion⟩ in the circular instructions to Collectors dated July ⟨19,⟩ 1796, a copy of which is also enclosed.2 This alterat⟨ion⟩ must however be made by order of the President. For the law having not ascertained what proof of citizenship should be necessary, it was by his directi⟨on⟩ that the enclosed instructions were communic⟨a⟩ted.

The instructions having confined the proof of Natur⟨alization⟩ to copy of a record & admitting the affidavit of one witness?⟩ to prove citizenship by birth or residence in 1783, it is much more easy for an alien seaman to obtain a protection as a natural born than as a naturalized citizen. Perhaps the collectors might be instructed generally not to grant certificates unless they have received satisfactory proof⟩ of the birth when citizenship is claimed on that ground.

As the subject is connected with great national questions, I presume, however, that it is not intended that any alteration be made until the whole subject shall have been investigated, & the ground intended to be insisted upon in relation to impressments shall have been precisely ascertained. I have the honor to be with the highest respect Sir Your most obt. Servt.

Albert Gallatin

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