To James Madison from David Bailie Warden, 17 September 1809
From David Bailie Warden
Paris, 17 September, 1809
Sir,
I have the honor of presenting to you a memoir in the Case of the Jefferson, which was prepared and published at General Armstrongs’ request.1 I have transmitted, to the Secretary of State, a communication on the Subject of Prize Causes. I fondly hope, Sir, that you will be pleased to have my provisional Appointment confirmed. I shall do every thing in my power to be worthy of this trust. I inclose a brochure which contains some curious information, and am, Sir, with the greatest respect and esteem, Your very obedient and very humble Servt
David Bailie Warden
RC (DLC). For enclosed memoir, see n. 1.
1. Mémoire pour Mr. D. B. Warden … dans le procès, pendant au conseil des prises, de la goélette américaine Le Jefferson, arrêtée et brûlée en mer, le 25 avril 1809 (Paris, 1809). Armstrong sent a copy of the pamphlet to the secretary of state, explaining that Warden had prepared it at his direction. The minister told Smith that because of the printed protest “I have reason to think” jurisdiction in the case of the Jefferson would be shifted from the council on captured ships “and cause it to be determined ministerially” (Armstrong to Smith, 18 Sept. 1809, and enclosure [DNA: RG 59, Diplomatic Despatches, France]).