To James Madison from Robert W. Fox, 8 August 1802
From Robert W. Fox, 8 August 1802
Falmouth 8 August 1802
Esteemed Friend
Enclosed be pleased to receive an account of American Vessels arrived in my district from the 1st. of January to the 30th. of June; many more have touched off this port for orders and immediately proceeded on their Voyage whose names I could not procure.
Since my last respects Flour has fallen in France to 42 Livres ⅌ Barrel, and very little in demand; in Spain it is quoted at 9 à 11 hard Dollars ⅌ Bbt. We have now fine Weather and the Crops of Grain look well.
On hearing of the Barbary Powers being hostile towards the Ships of the United States, I immediately communicated the intelligence as far as I could to prevent any Vessels proceeding to the Mediteranean from falling into their possession.
Trade in general in this Nation continues at a low ebb. I am with much respect Thy assured Friend
Rob. W. Fox
The preceding is the full transcription of a document that was previously abstracted in The Papers of James Madison, Secretary of State series. The original abstract contains additional annotation and source information.