To James Madison from William Charles Coles Claiborne, 17 December 1806
(Duplicate)
New Orleans Decem. 17th, 1806
Sir,
The enclos No. 1 is a Copy of a Letter, which I have received from General Wilkinson, and that No. 2 of the Answer which has been returned.
I persuade myself, that the danger is not as great as the General apprehends; but in no event, will I take upon myself to Suspend the privilege of the Writ of habeas Corpus, and to proclaim Martial Law. I am Sir, With great respect Yr: Mo: obt. Servt.
William C. C. Claiborne
DNA: RG 59-TP-Territorial Papers, Orleans.