101To James Madison from Joel Barlow, April 1809 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
April 1809. Sends on letter “from Mr. Lee” recommending William Bass for the consulate at Antwerp and mentions that Walter Livingston, Jr., may deserve consideration for the secretary’s post at the Paris legation, if a vacancy occurs. “I dont know but I ought to make an apology once for all for consenting sometimes to be the organ of such applications. It is a business I very much dislike but...
102To James Madison from John Graham, 9 October 1813 (Madison Papers)
The inclosed Letters were received this Morning. As they relate to an interesting subject and one that may require immediate attention I have thought it my Duty to forward them to you, without waiting for the return of the Secretary of State. You will of course receive by this Mail from the war office, the official Report of our having got possession of Malden which was abandoned by the Enemy....
103To James Madison from William Jones, 14 June 1814 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
§ From William Jones. 14 June 1814, Navy Department. “The Christian name of Mr French not being known at this Department, I have to ask the favour of you to give the enclosed such direction as will ensure its reaching him.” Letterbook copy ( DNA : RG 45, LSP ). 1 p. The enclosure may have been intended for Robert F. French, who was commissioned as a midshipman on 11 June 1814 ( Callahan, List...
104To James Madison from Robert Smith, 27 February 1811 (Madison Papers)
The Secretary of State respectfully represents to the President, that agreeably to the several Acts of Congress authorizing the third Census or enumeration of the Inhabitants of the United States and the Territories thereof, instructions were issued to the several Marshals and Secretaries, conformably to the provisions of the Law; in consequence of which, regular returns of the population of...
105To James Madison from Richard Rush, 24 September 1815 (Madison Papers)
Since the receipt of your letter of the 19th instant I have dropped a line to Mr Yates, and been with Mr Graham upon the subject of it. The case is, I hope, placed in a way to be satisfactorily adjusted. I enclose another letter from Mr. Dick. The accompanying documents to which he alludes, I have not thought it necessary to trouble you with. It does appear to me, that his sensibility has been...
106To James Madison from James Monroe, 12 August 1816 (Madison Papers)
Mr Bagot has offerd, an alternative, in the coast of the Island of New Foundland, from Cape Ray to the Raimia Islands, if preferr’d to that on the Labrador, from Mt. Joli to the bay of Esquimaux. I have conferr’d with Mr Homans respecting it, who fears that it is too much Subjected to fog. I believe it will be best to refer it to Mr Adams with all the light we can obtain, together with the...
107To James Madison from John Adams, 25 April 1813 (Madison Papers)
Yesterday Morning expecting a Letter from Dr Rush I Sent early to the Post Office: but my Messenger brought me a Letter from Dr Waterhouse, which I inclose; having no words of my own to express my Feelings. The Shock was Sudden and unexpected. I had a Letter from Rush dated the 10th.; apparently written in full health and fine Spirits. An unchangeable Friend Ship of thirty Eight Years had...
108To James Madison from Daniel Buck, 4 July 1811 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
4 July 1811, Chelsea. Presumes on JM’s “known goodness” to make “a few quiries, and suggestions.” Asks if there is reason to suppose that any nation endowed with superior resources and imbued with the rights of man can remain in colonial subordination “and suffer her resources to be drawn from her by a remote power.” Is it possible that Spain’s American provinces might return to a dependency...
109To James Madison from John Armstrong, 11 December 1810 (Madison Papers)
Some apology is, no doubt, due from me, for so long delaying my intended journey to Washington, but the truth is, that between the occupation of settling my family for the Winter in New York, and casting about here for their more permanent residence, my movements have been necessarily slow—and the more so, as, in cases of this kind, I leave something to both the taste & judgment of others,...
110To James Madison from William Plumer, 2 March 1816 (Madison Papers)
In consequence of reducing the military peace establishment of the United States to its present number, many deserving officers have necessarily been greatly injured, turned out of employment and deprived of their usual means of subsistence. Permit me to solicit your favorable attention to one of these unfortunate gentlemen, Lt. Col. Stephen Ranney, who now resides at Charlestown in the...
111To James Madison from Caesar A. Rodney, [4 April] 1809 (Madison Papers)
You will observe by the enclosed letter, that Mr. Dallas wishes to know, what he is to do with the indictment against Bartholemew White, one of Burr’s men. The fact is, that Genl. Wilkinson had left Washington for New-Orleans sometime before I recd. the letter enclosing a commission to take his deposition. I agree pretty much with Mr. Dallas in opinion that White is too small game for us to...
112To James Madison from Elijah Sparks, 23 February 1813 (Madison Papers)
Unbend your mind for a few Moments, from national, and vastly more interesting considerations; and look over a candid address, from a former acquaintance. The acquaintance being very partial, as to personality, is now without doubt, in every trace, effaiced from your recollection. A knowledge of your own candour, induces me to write, for which I have a claim on your Goodness, for Pardon. This...
113To James Madison from Thomas B. Benedict, 16 September 1814 (Madison Papers)
A Stranger addresses you, It has been the pleasure of the councill of appointment in this State to give me the command of the fourth Brigade; I have Seen considerable Service, and can in three days raise from 12 to 1500 men to take the field; they are at the command of your Excellency. I feell anxious to enter the Service, and to take the brave men with me who have fought twic[e] by my Side,...
114To James Madison from Richard M. Johnson, 25 February 1815 (Madison Papers)
Having received so many demonstrations of your favour, & which have never failed to produce the most lively feelings of gratitude on my part, I feel some hesitations in renewing the recommendation of Joseph F⟨icklin⟩ Esq for a Commercial agency or a consulate; as the pacification of the world may present occasions which have not heretofore existed. If however you Should not find it convenient...
115To James Madison from Hubbard Taylor, 6 December 1812 (Madison Papers)
Notwithstanding the length of time since I addressed a letter to you, be assured it has not been in the least degree owing to the want of respect for your person, or a steady adherance and full confidence, in the wise political system you have invariably recommended, and so far as depended on yourself decisively adopted, to promote the peace, happiness & preservation of our much beloved...
116To James Madison from George Luckey, 25 April 1813 (Madison Papers)
Instigated by the feelings of sympathy I write. Who that is human can be insensible to the evils of the present day—Our bleeding tho inoffending country as to our enemies—a free Just & Virtuous government compelled by every Agression & mall-treatment to fight for every thing dear to man against the most covetous, corrupt & revengeful nation which aims at nothing less than universal...
117To James Madison from James Leander Cathcart, 13 August 1810 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
13 August 1810, Madeira. Cathcart acknowledges JM’s letters of 30 May and 15 and 26 June and informs him of the arrangements he has made for purchasing wine ordered by JM. RC , duplicate, and enclosures ( DLC ). RC 2 pp.; docketed by JM. Duplicate (3 pp.; docketed by JM) includes 16 Aug. postscript mentioning enclosures: invoice for £249 (1 p.); and bill of lading (1 p.) for wine shipped on...
118To James Madison from James Monroe, 16 December 1814 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
§ From James Monroe. 16 December 1814, War Department. “The Senate having declined confirming the promotions of Captains Graham & Massias of the 1st. Rifle Regiment, the confirmation of the other promotions in the Rifle Regiment, conformably to the list now before the Senate, would be irregular. I have, therefore, the honor, in lieu of it, to propose the enclosed list.” RC and enclosure ( DNA...
119To James Madison from J. J. Boÿreau and Others, 14 July 1813 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
14 July 1813, Baltimore. “The Undersigned humbly state that they are Subjects of France and Refugees from the French and Spanish Colonies who have exhausted their Means of Existence and cannot procure passages to their Native Country in the ordinary way. “They humbly pray, Your Excellency will give Permit to one of the Petitioners, to go on board of the Commanding Officer of the British forces...
120To James Madison from Jonathan Dayton, [ca. 14 January 1813] (Madison Papers)
I took the liberty of writing to you lately on the subject of our affairs, & will now trouble you once more, for my anxiety is extreme. The contemplated plan of raising 20,000 men for one year is a most erroneous one. By the time they are made good soldiers they must be disbanded—another army enlisted—your troops would always be raw—the expenses enormous—the delays incalculable. Besides the...
121To James Madison from Frederick I of Württemberg, 7 February 1816 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
§ From Frederick I of Württemberg. 7 February 1816, Stuttgart. Announces the marriage of his son, the prince royal, to the Grand Duchess Catherine of Russia on 24 Jan. 1816. RC ( DNA : RG 59, Communications from Heads of Foreign States, Württemberg). 1 p.; in French.
122To James Madison from John Armstrong, 18 March 1810 (Madison Papers)
This will be handed to you by Count Pahlen who goes out as I beleive with every disposition to please and be pleased. He is a respectable young man. If report says true, (for I know nothing of it officially) you will soon have a new Minister from this country. This is a Diaplomatic Cadet, who is for the first time put on horseback. He is the son in law of your old acquaintance Laforest, and...
123To James Madison from Levett Harris, 27 October 1812 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
27 October 1812, St. Petersburg. “The present will be handed You by my nephew, Mr John L. Harris, who returns home the bearer of dispatches from Mr Adams from Count Romanzoff & from me. He will have the honor of paying his respects in person to your Excellency. I take the liberty of thus introducing him to you & of recommending him to your protection & notice.” RC ( NN ). 1 p.; dated “15/27...
124To James Madison from the Kentucky Legislature, 4 February 1817 (Madison Papers)
The Legislature of Kentucky present you with an expression, of their feelings, and sentiments at the close of your Administration. We know that the approbation of Republican Citizens is the noblest Reward that can be confered on their chief Majistrate, and your approaching retirement, will soon exhibit you on a level with other private citizens, distinguished by your Virtues and past...
125To James Madison from the Bunker Hill Association, 12 July 1810 (Madison Papers)
We have the honour to address you, in conformity to a Vote of the general Committee of the “Bunker Hill Association,” and request you to accept a Copy of the Oration delivered on the 4th of July last. In commemorating the feelings and principles which led to the glorious event of our revolution, it is peculiarly congenial to our grateful sensibility on this occasion, to render homage to the...
126To James Madison from Oliver Whipple, 18 December 1809 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
18 December 1809, Washington. Has come to Washington from the District of Maine seeking an appointment and has references from prominent New Englanders, including former president John Adams who has recently declared himself to be JM’s “Friend, and the Friend of your Administration, with the most prompt and decided Approbation of your measures.” Mentions his support for the administration and...
127To James Madison from Joseph Story, 8 February 1816 (Madison Papers)
Mr Justice Story will do himself the honor of accepting the invitation of the Honorable the President of the United States for tuesday next. RC ( NN ).
128To James Madison from Thomas Acheson, 25 August 1812 (Madison Papers)
Alarming intiligence which we have Just recd. induces me to call upon the attention of your excellency. Express messengers have arrivd. who bring the dreadful information that Genl Hull and his Army ; have been Captured by the British and Indians after a battle, in which 500 of the brave ohio Volunteers were left on the ground to the Scalping knife of the Savage. The immediate causes which led...
129To James Madison from William C. C. Claiborne and Thomas B. Robertson, 19 March 1810 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
19 March 1810, New Orleans. The resignation of Philip Grymes as U.S. attorney for the Orleans district has created a vacancy, which must be filled by “a Citizen of competent talents, and correct principles.” They recommend “Tully Robinson (late of Virginia) who has resided in this Territory about twelve months.” RC ( DNA : RG 59, LAR , 1809–17, filed under “Robinson”). 1 p. Printed in Carter,...
130To James Madison from Daniel Rodney, 22 February 1814 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
§ From Daniel Rodney. 22 February 1814, Lewes. “Agreeably to a request of the Senate, and house of Representatives, of the State of Delaware I transmit to your Excellency, a resolution of the Legislature relative to an Island in the Delaware River called the Pea Patch.” RC ( DNA : RG 107, LRRS , R-154:7). 1 p. Docketed as received in the War Department in February 1814. The enclosed resolution...
131To James Madison from James Monroe, 20 August 1814 (Madison Papers)
I arrived here this morning at 8 OClock, and have been since within 4 miles of Benedict, at Butler’s mill, where it was reported the enemy, on their march, had arrived. The report was unfounded. The enemy landed yesterday at Benedict, and had advanced their pickets, within a mile and a half of that mill, for security only. From a height, between that mill and the Patuxent, I had a view of...
132To James Madison from Thomas Lehré, 6 June 1812 (Madison Papers)
I send you the City Gazette of Yesterday, it will inform you of the Patriotic spirit of our Citizens. Yesterday we like to have had a serious Riot in this City. The Men belonging to the 29th: Regt: of this place, that were drafted, were ordered to parade yesterday afternoon at 5 oClock before the Court House, for Inspection. Mr: McNeal, a Scotchman , of the House of McKenzie & McNeal, being...
133To James Madison from Adolph Ehringhaus, 29 October 1812 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
29 October 1812, Philadelphia. Informs JM that he wrote to the secretary of war on 16 Sept., enclosing “a Memorandum shewing the Costs of raising a Corps of Husars.” Having received no answer, expresses suspicion that his plan either was not explicit enough or was contrary to the department’s views. Explains his desire to be useful to his adopted country of fourteen years in his area of...
134To James Madison from [Robert Smith?], ca. 12 July 1810 (Madison Papers)
Letter not found. Ca. 12 July 1810. Mentioned in JM to Smith, 17 July 1810 . Forwards letters from Gov. David Holmes and Robert K. Lowry and a copy of his reply to Lowry.
135To James Madison from William Bentley, 27 May 1814 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
§ From William Bentley. 27 May 1814, Salem. “Permit me to inform you, that the bearer Mr Andrew Dunlap a native of Salem, is upon a southern tour with some citizens of Salem. His talents, his education, & attainments have the highest claims upon our affections, & his love of his country encouraged by all his kindred, who are among our most wealthy citizens, promises that he will plead with...
136To James Madison from William Hendricks and Others, Ca. 5 November 1814 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
§ From William Hendricks and Others. Ca. 5 November 1814. “The petition of the undersigned members of the Legislative Council and House of Representatives of the Indiana Territory beg leave to recommend to the war department as a proper person to fill and take the rank of capt. or subaltern in the service of his country Capt. John Jenkins of Jefferson county Ind. Territory. Capt Jenkins has...
137To James Madison from William Madison, 20 March 1810 (Madison Papers)
Your’s of inclosing $100 was duly recd. I regret that previously thereto I did not give you information of the sale of the Tobo at Richmd and there by prevented the remittance for Chisholm. The sale was made at $4½ ⅌ hundred which was the most that could be procured at that time: my own was included in the sale. In order to get yr Flour to market I have taken liberty to promise payment out of...
138To James Madison from Thomas Tenant, 16 January 1813 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
16 January 1813, Baltimore. Writes as “a resident merchant in the city of Baltimore” and as “the owner of the Brig or vessel called the Herald that was captured on the twenty fifth of December last, on the American Coast by a British Squadron, being then in the prosecution of a voyage from Bordeaux in France to the port of Baltimore.” Requests JM’s permission to “dispatch a vessel in the...
139To James Madison from Oliveira & Sons, 29 September 1810 (Madison Papers)
Letter not found. 29 September 1810. Mentioned in Oliveira & Sons to JM, 26 Oct. 1810 . Informs JM of the arrival of Madeira wine from Lisbon.
140To James Madison from Christopher Hughes Jr., 1 August 1816 (Madison Papers)
I write to you, by the authority of Col. Monroe, to say, that after a proper reflection upon the proposition which I have had the honour to receive from the Government, to go to Sweden as Secretary of Legation, and to remain as the Chargè des affaires, de facto, in succession to Mr. Russell: and after a necessary investigation into my private affairs, required by the important domestic...
141To James Madison from Philanthropos, 6 October 1816 (Madison Papers)
Presuming, that an evil , which threatens these States with disgrace and perhaps eventual ruin, is to you unknown, I hasten to inform you thereof, in full confidence, that it will meet your serious consideration. The Slave trade (to which I allude) has been discountenanced and put down by all civilized Nations (for the Spaniards and Portuguese deserve not that honourable appellation) and the...
142To James Madison from John Armstrong, 20 September 1809 (Madison Papers)
I enclose a note just received from Lafayette which confirms my belief in the interest M. F. takes in our business. Lafayette is not in the secret of the invitation stated in my letter of the 18: but his friend appears to be privy to the wishes and intentions of the Minister. I am very truly your most respectful & obedient humble servt RC ( DNA : RG 59, Diplomatic Despatches, France)....
143To James Madison from Samuel B. Malcom, 14 May 1812 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
14 May 1812, Utica, New York. “The misfortune of not entertaining a personal acquaintance with the P. U. S. renders this address embarrassing.” Mentions that he is the son-in-law of General Schuyler and served for about three years as private secretary to Mr. Adams; also alludes to the Revolutionary services of his father. As a professional man has observed the recent law adding a district...
144To James Madison from John Holmes, 24 February 1814 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
§ From John Holmes. 24 February 1814, Boston. “I have understood that the appointment of Albert Smith Esqr as collector of Plymouth County in this state has not been confirmed by the Senate. If so, permit me to recommend to your consideration Aaron Hobart Esqr of Hanover in that County as, in my opinion a very suitable person to fill the office. Mr. Hobart may be relied on as a gentleman whose...
145To James Madison from William C. C. Claiborne, 20 March 1809 (Madison Papers)
The enclosed Letter is from the Lady Abbess of the Ursuline Convent, And in compliance with her particular request, I have the honor to transmit it to you. I avail myself of this occasion to Accompany the expression of my sincere pleasure at your elevation to the Presidential Chair, with my best Wishes for the honor, the happiness and the prosperity of your Administration. I have the honor to...
146To James Madison from Israel Pickens, 4 December 1811 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
4 December 1811, Washington. A vacancy has occurred with the death of the collector at Washington, North Carolina, and he has received a letter from Col. Henry Selby, who is seeking the appointment. His acquaintance with Selby is “very limited,” being confined to one session in the North Carolina Senate, but he believes him to be “a reputable worthy citizen” who would make a good collector. RC...
147To James Madison from Philip Reed, 6 June 1809 (Madison Papers)
Ph: Reed presents his compliments to Mr Madison, and in answer to Mr. Madisons note of yesterday, Ph: Reed begs leave to observe that he is now confined to his chamber in consequence of the effects of a fall from a horse two weeks ago, that he has not been able to get from his lodgings but one day since his arrival in the City—to this cause it is that Mr. Madison will have the goodness to...
148To James Madison from Andrew Moore, 16 April 1813 (Madison Papers)
A Lieutenant, Boatswain, and Midshipman, British prisoners sent from Norfolk arrived this day, I have paroled them, to Major Tinsleys, forty five miles from this place; Fifty seven Sailors are on their way here, I have applied to the Jailor, and also the keeper of the Penitentiary, neither can receive them, I cant find any other place in which they can be secured unless I lease a house, the...
149Thomas Jefferson to James Madison, 10 October 1811 (Jefferson Papers)
M rs Lewis , the widow of Col o Nich Lewis , has requested me to mention to yourself the name of a mr Wood , an applicant for a commission in the army . on recieving the request I rode to her house to ask something about him, observing to her that something more than his name would be necessary. she candidly told me at once that he was a very capable young man, connected with her only as being...
150To James Madison from Samuel Greenhow, 16 November 1813 (Madison Papers)
Perhaps I should apologize for intruding on you, when your mind must be earnestly engaged by affairs of the greatest moment to our Country; I can offer no other apology, than will appear from the object of my letter. An Association for the purchase and distribution of Bibles among the poor of our State has been recently formed in Virginia; I take leave to inclose a copy of the address &...