From James Madison to William Harris Crawford, [ante–12 December 1815]
To William Harris Crawford
[ante–12 December] 1815
Mr. Crawford will be so good as to put convenient dates into the Blanks. If there be any thing in the Proclamation which can be made better, he will retain it, till an interview be had. See the *Proclamation in the Mississippi Territory now sent1 & Govr. Williams’ complaint of neglect in removing Squatters within S. C—orders thro’ the Military Commanders of Divisions, will be necessary to give effect, to those to the Marshals.
J. M.
RC (DLC). Day and month not indicated. Conjectural day and month supplied based on the fact that JM’s proclamation concerning squatters on public lands was issued on 12 Dec. 1815 (see below). Filed with the RC is Crawford’s undated note: “I would suggest that the blanks be filled so that the execution of the proclamation by the proper officer shall be 3. months from its date. Orders will be immediately given to the Commanders of military posts to furnish the force necessary to carry the proclamation in to effect. Orders will likewise issue for the Removal of the intruders mentioned by governor Williams.” JM placed an asterisk after the word “proclamation” and added beneath the note: “*agst. squatters on lands ceded by Creeks &c. to Gen. Jackson.”
1. See Presidential Proclamation, 12 Dec. 1815.