To James Madison from Alexander J. Dallas, 19 April 1815
From Alexander J. Dallas
19 April 1815.
Dr Sir
I am obliged to trouble you again on Mr. Lufborough’s business. He has mistaken my expression, which was, “that if the claim is not legal, still it appears to me to be equitable.” However, recollecting your view of the subject, I do not wish to give a formal decision, without your sanction; and I will thank you to say, whether I shall leave it as it stands, or submit it to the Comptroller on equitable principles.1
General Macomb arrived last night; and I hope Genl. Brown will be here tomorrow. The business is now so digested, that I think it will not cost the Board three days to pass upon it.
If Genl. Ripley conforms to my view of propriety, as to the Court of Inquiry, I shall act on your authority, in issuing the brevet, as well as in writing a letter to retain him in service.
In this morning’s National Intelligencer, I have published a General Order to restrain some abuses, and to quiet the minds of the Soldiers, as to their pay and discharge. The collection of Military documents, which are in the hands of Officers, who may be deranged, is, also, attempted.2 I am, Dr Sir, most respectfully & faithfully, Yrs.
A. J. Dallas
RC (CSmH).
1. The editors have been unable to identify this claim.
2. The order, dated 17 Apr. 1815, stated that commissioned officers not retained in the peacetime army would receive any arrearages due them and an additional three months’ pay on 1 May 1815, and that the order of payment for the rest of the troops would be as follows: soldiers enlisted for the term of the war and to be discharged; noncommissioned officers, privates, and musicians not retained; and, finally, noncommissioned officers, privates, and musicians remaining in the army. In addition, Dallas ordered that soldiers stay with their units until formally discharged, forbade discounted purchases by officers of soldiers’ due bills, and instructed officers to return all War Department books and other documents not necessary for the performance of their remaining service.