1To James Madison from William Davies, 4 February 1804 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
4 February 1804, Norfolk. “The enclosed papers, exhibit an irregularity of Conduct on the part of two American Captains, which it may be proper to lay before you, I have only to add that the Sailor, Burnes, by the records in this Office appears to be a native American Seaman.” RC ( DNA : RG 59, ML ). 1 p. Enclosures not found.
2From James Madison to William Davies, 5 April 1804 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
5 April 1804, Department of State. “I return the deposition received from you some time ago, charging one Spinks as a Citizen of the United States with engaging himself as an Officer on board a British Lettre of Marque. It would be adviseable that you should transmit it to the District Attorney, and on Spinks return advise him of it, in order that if the facts will warrant it a prosecution may...
3To James Madison from William Davies, 29 October 1803 (Madison Papers)
Letter not found. 29 October 1803 . Acknowledged in Daniel Brent to Davies, 7 Nov. 1803 (DNA: RG 59, DL, vol. 14). Encloses the protest of Joseph Seward, William Randell Mitchell, and James Chew, officers and crew of the brig Drake , complaining of the impressment of two members of the crew, James Ferniol and Neil Long. Also enclosed was a certificate from the U.S. consul at Liverpool stating...
4To James Madison from William Davies, 24 August 1803 (Madison Papers)
I am often applied to by seamen belonging to Coasting vessels for protections, alledging that the British Ships of War impress them within the territorial jurisdiction of the United States. I have never been able to ascertain that such practice actually exists; but the transaction stated in the enclosed deposition seems to be so irregular, that I think it proper to be communicated. I have...