James Madison Papers

To James Madison from Elias Boudinot, 6 August 1802

From Elias Boudinot

Mint of the United States
Philad. 6th. August 1802

Sir

I am sorry to inform the President of the United States through you, that a malignant fever now spreading through this City leaves the Mint little hope of keeping the workmen of the Mint many days longer.1 It being within about 500 yards of the Mint has greatly alarmed us. Indeed, such is the state of men’s minds on the occasion, that I think it neither advantageous nor safe to keep the Mint open, unless the disorder should suddenly disappear. My present expectations are, that all the public offices will remove the next week.

As it is proper the President should know all our movements, I enclose a rough copy of the Orders I shall issue in case my fears are verified,2 that if any alteration should be agreeable to Government, it may be made. There is a very large sum in both Gold & Silver in the Mint, that cannot be worked up under four or five weeks. I have the honor to be with great respect Sir, Your very humble servant

(signed)   Elias Boudinot D. M.

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