James Madison Papers

From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 8 December 1801

To Thomas Jefferson

Department of State 8 Decr. 1801

Sir,

I have the honor to transmit herewith two copies of the second census (except for the State of Tennessee, which is not yet received) and to notice the following deviations from the law under which it was taken, affecting the uniformity of some of the returns.

The return for the counties of Dutchess, Ulster & Orange in the District of New York was not recd. at this office until the 21st. of Septr. last.

The return for a portion of Baltimore County in the District of Maryland was not recd. until the 19th. ult. The return for the western District of Virginia was not recd. in its present form until the 20th. of Octr. last.

The Marshal for the District of South Carolina did not take the Oath prescribed by law until three days after the date of his return.

In the return for the Indiana Territory, the population of some of its settlements is grouped together instead of being divided into classes.

It is proper that I should add, that I have no reason to suppose that the above irregularities have happened from culpable neglect in the Marshals themselves.

I have added to these copies an aggregate Schedule of the returns from each District and Territory. With perfect respect I remain Your most Obedient servant.

James Madison

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