1151Transfer of Military Appropriations, [ca. July 1814] (Madison Papers)
The President of the United States in virtue of authority in him vested by the Act of Congress passed on the 3rd. day of March 1809, intituled “An Act further to amend the several acts for the establishment and regulation of the Treasury, War and Navy Departments,” makes the following transfers, namely; Four hundred thousand dollars is transferred from the appropriation of pay of Rangers to...
1152From James Madison to the Senate, 23 April 1812 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
23 April 1812. Transmits a report of the secretary of state in compliance with the Senate resolution of 4 Mar. 1812. RC ( DNA : RG 46, Legislative Proceedings, 12A-E3). 1 p. In the hand of Edward Coles, signed by JM. For enclosures, see Monroe to JM, 23 Apr. 1812 .
1153From James Madison to the Senate, 16 December 1816 (Madison Papers)
I Nominate, Joseph Philips, late of the Army of the United States, to be Secretary of the Illinois Territory. RC ( DNA : RG 46, Executive Proceedings, Nominations, 14B–A2). In John Payne Todd’s hand, signed by JM .
1154From James Madison to the Virginia General Assembly, [ca. 1 March 1817] (Madison Papers)
I have recd, fellow Citizens from Governor Preston, your address of the 22d. Ulto: The sentiments which it conveys are particularly endeared to me, as those of a State, with which I am connected by the ties of my birth & of my home; and by the recollections of its confidence & partiality, commencing at an early stage of my life, and continued under different public manifestations, to the...
1155From James Madison to John Armstrong, [21 June 1814] (Madison Papers)
The taking of Soldiers for the Navy, is a disagreeable circumstance in several respects: but an efficient State of the Navy is so essential even to land operations on the Canada frontier that it seems unavoidable occasionally until a sufficiency of Seamen can be obtained, for which every exertion is doubtless made. The expedient of volunteers adopted by Genl. Izard, as a diminution of the...
1156From James Madison to Alexander J. Dallas, [ca. 22 August 1816] (Madison Papers)
The translation of the Dey of Algiers’ letter, after a curious display of Oriental Bombast, presents the alternative of re-establishing the Old Treaty, instead of the late one as annulled by our breach of it, or a withdrawal of our Consul which means a commencement of war by him. The answer concludes with the declaration that as peace is better than war, war is better than tribute. Letters...
1157From James Madison to William Jones, 16 September 1813 (Madison Papers)
I have just recd your favor of the 14th. The victory of the Enterprize is a just subject of congratulations, the more so as succeeding the loss of the Chesapeake, and giving to that event, the more decided character of an exception, resulting from unpropitious circumstances, not a check to our maritime triumphs. I hope tomorrows mail will bring another proof, from the successful gallantry of...
1158From James Madison to Simon Snyder, 13 April 1809 (Madison Papers)
I have received your letter of the 6th. instant, accompanied by certain Acts of the Legislature of Pensylvania; which will be laid before Congress, according to the desire expressed. Considering our respective relations to the subject of these communications, it would be unnecessary, if not improper to enter into any examination of some of the questions connected with it. It is sufficient, in...
1159From James Madison to David Gelston, 16 July 1809 (Madison Papers)
Not recollecting that I have remitted you your advances for duties on wine &c. as stated in your favor of June 9. I now inclose a note for the amount $146.20. Should my recollection have failed me, it will cost you the trouble of returning it at your leisure. Accept my friendly respects RC ( NEh ).
1160James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 1 April 1811 (Jefferson Papers)
I intimated to you the Offence taken by Armstrong at the re-enstatement of Warden . It is not improbable that it will be the ground of an open hostility. This will call into view his present denunciations of W. which are pointed ag st him as an Adventurer & Impostor from the commencement to the end of his career, in comparison with the patronage so long continued to him, and the sentiments...
1161From James Madison to William Eustis, 20 July 1810 (Madison Papers)
I have recd. your letter of the 16th. answering one from Genl. Wilkinson of the 14th. of which a copy was inclosed. Your objections to his request seem to evince the irregularity of it. Nor do I perceive its importance to his object. As the examination of the Officers, if present, being ex. parte, wd. of course be without cross examinations, their testimony may be taken where they are, with...
1162From James Madison to Members of the Cabinet, 14 February 1816 (Madison Papers)
J. Madison requests a consultation with the heads of Depts today at 2 oclock. RC ( MHi : Charles Edward French Autograph Collection).
1163From James Madison to the Senate, [ca. 26 April 1816] (Madison Papers)
I nominate, Charles W. Callin, of Georgia, to be Collector of Direct taxes and Internal duties for the third collection district of Georgia in the place of George W Hardwicke who declines the appointment. Frederick Philips of North Carolina, to be Principal assessor for the third collection district of the same State in the place of Richard Grist, resigned. Andrew Miller of South Carolina, to...
1164From James Madison to Congress, 6 November 1812 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
6 November 1812. Transmits “copies of the correspondencies [ sic ] between the Department of War and the Governors of Massachusetts and Connecticut, refered to in my Message of the fourth instant.” RC and enclosures, two copies ( DNA : RG 233, President’s Messages, 12A-D1; DNA : RG 46, President’s Messages, 12A-E2). First RC 1 p.; in the hand of Edward Coles, signed by JM. For enclosures (34...
1165Memorandum on Cabinet Meeting, 7 June 1814 (Madison Papers)
In Cabinet June 7. 1814—present J. Monroe, G.W. Campbell Genl. Armstrong W. Jones. R. Rush. The subject, the opening of the Campaign. Ms ( DLC ); Tr ( DLC , series 3). Ms in JM ’s hand. Nemine contradicente: “without opposition or dissent” ( Black’s Law Dictionary [9th ed.], 1138). In response to John Armstrong’s assertion that the British would not undertake significant military operations...
1166Presidential Proclamation, 16 November 1814 (Madison Papers)
The two Houses of the National Legislature having, by a joint Resolution expressed their desire, that in the present time of public calamity and war, a day may be recommended to be observed by the people of the United States as a day of Public Humiliation and Fasting, and of Prayer to Almighty God, for the safety and welfare of these States, his blessing on their arms, and a speedy restoration...
1167James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 11 December 1809 (Jefferson Papers)
I duly rec d your two letters of the 26. & 30. Ult: The State of Col. Monroe’s mind is very nearly what I had supposed. His willingness to have taken a seat in the Cabinet, is what I had not supposed. I have written to Maj r Neele , according to your suggestion, and shall follow it also as to the distribution of Gov r Lewis’s papers when they arrive. Fayette
1168From James Madison to John Adams Smith, 16 January 1816 (Adams Papers)
Reposing especial Trust and confidence in your Integrity, Prudence and ability I have nominated and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate appointed you the said John Adams Smith Secretary of the Legation of the United of America to His Britanic Majesty authorizing you hereby to do and perform all such matters and things as to the said place or office doth appertain or as may be duly...
1169James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 7 February 1812 (Jefferson Papers)
I have rec d several letters from you which not requiring special answers, I now beg leave to acknowledge in the lump. I have delayed it in the hope that I might add something of on our public affairs not uninteresting. If there be any thing at present of this character it will be found in the inclosed paper from N. York . will We have no late official information from Europe
1170From James Madison to William Darlington, 13 January 1817 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
§ To William Darlington. 13 January 1817. “J. Madison requests the favor of Mr Darlington to dine with him on Thursday next, at 4 o’clock. An answer is requested.” RC ( NHi ). 1 p. Printed invitation, with blank spaces for name and date, filled in John Payne Todd’s hand, and addressed by him. Docketed by Darlington.
1171James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 24 April 1812 (Jefferson Papers)
I have just rec d your favor of the 17 th . The same mail brings me the “Proceedings of the Gov t of the U.S. relative to the Batture” for which you will accept my thanks. I had not supposed that so great a proportion of produce, particularly of Wheat & flour, was still in the hands of the farmers. In Penn a it was known to be the case. In N.Y. almost the whole of the last crop, is in the...
1172James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 10 October 1814 (Jefferson Papers)
Your favor of the 24 th ult: came duly to hand. I learn that the Library Com e will report favorably on your proposition to supply the loss of books by Cong s . It will prove a gain to them, if they have the wisdom to replace it by such a Collection as yours. M r Smith will doubtless write you on the subject. I have not yet read your last comunication to M r
1173From James Madison to Caleb Strong, 7 February 1814 (Madison Papers)
I have duly received your communication bearing date Jan. 1814, on the subject of a sum of money seized & detained from the hands of an agent of a Bank in Boston, by a Custom-house officer of the City of New-York, and requesting that orders may be given for the restoration of the money, and the officer may be removed from his office. As the course of proceeding, marked out by the law, for the...
1174From James Madison to Benjamin W. Crowninshield, 12 June 1815 (Madison Papers)
I have given to the questions growing out of your letter and communications of the 23rd. of May., and others from the Commissioners of the Navy Board, the consideration due to them. The following remarks convey the result of it. The Law which establishes the Board, containing provisions entirely new, and rendering the Constitution of the Navy Department, more complicated, at the same time that...
1175From James Madison to James Monroe, 7 May 1814 (Madison Papers)
Will you put the inclose case into the proper channel. It seems to have a fair claim to attention? The public I find are not yet apprised of the precise ground on which the arrangement at Quebec has left the subject of retaliation. Unless the original 23 hostages can be held in some situation responsible for those sent to England, I foresee complaint & reproach agst. the Ex: on the other hand...
1176From James Madison to James Monroe, 17 July 1816 (Madison Papers)
I return the letter from Mr. Wirt, and the letter & paper from Mr. Mitchell. You cannot do better than pursue the result of your consultation with Mr. Rush on the subject. He is acquainted with what passed between me & Judge Tucker & Mr. Wirt. It seems proper that Mr. Mitchell be instructed to send if he be permitted the persons under his care, to the U.S. We are bound by respect to the laws,...
1177From James Madison to the Senate, 6 March 1809 (Madison Papers)
To the Senate of the United States. I nominate Robert Smith now Secretary of the Navy to be Secretary of State. William Eustis of Massachusetts to be Secretary of War. John Quincey Adams of Massachusetts to be Minister Plenipotentiary to the court of St. Petersburg. Thomas Sumpter Junr. of South Carolina to be Minister Plenipotentiary to the court of Rio Jeneiro. Henry Hill of New York to be...
1178From James Madison to Albert Gallatin, 12 April 1816 (Madison Papers)
Mr. Dallas has signified to me that it being his intention not to pass another Winter in Washington, he has thought it his duty to give me an opportunity of selecting a Successor during the present session of Congress; intimating a willingness, however, to remain, if desired, in order to put the national Bank in motion. Will it be most agreeable to you, to proceed on your mission to France; or...
1179From James Madison to James Monroe, 15 August 1813 (Madison Papers)
I am just favored with yours of the 12th. which was due yesterday, but the mail it seems lost a day between Washington & Fredg. I hope the arrival of Bloomfield will contribute to lessen the collisions, which are so inconvenient. In the mean time your & the Secy. of the Navy’s advice cannot but be useful; and I dare say, from Bloomfield’s character, that it will occasionally be acceptable to...
1180From James Madison to George W. Erving, 25 September 1810 (Madison Papers)
Letter not found. 25 September 1810. Acknowledged in Erving to JM, 20 Oct. 1810 . Discusses Spanish-American affairs and the policies of Great Britain toward Spain’s colonies.
1181From James Madison to Mathew Carey, 28 January 1815 (Madison Papers)
I have recd your letter of the with a copy of the 2d. Edition of the Olive Branch, for which & for that of the 1st. previously sent to me I return you my thanks. I have not been able as yet to do more, than glance at the plan of the work, and run over a few of its pages. The course adopted, of assembling authentic & striking facts, and addressing them impartially & independently, but with...
1182From James Madison to the Chairman of the Republican Meeting of Washington County, Maryland, 31 January 1810 (Madison Papers)
I have recd. your letter of the 25 enclosing the unanimous resolutions of a Meeting of Citizens of Washington County, at Hagers Town on the 20th. instant; approving the course lately taken by the Executive of the U. S. with respect to the British Minister Plenipotentiary, and pledging their support of the Constituted Authorities, in such Measures as may be required by the unjust conduct of the...
1183From James Madison to the Senate, 11 March 1816 (Madison Papers)
I nominate Peter P. Ferry, of Ohio, to be Collector of the Customs for the district of Sandusky in the same state, in the place of E.W. Bull, deceased. RC ( DNA : RG 46, Executive Proceedings, Nominations, 14B–A1). In John Payne Todd’s hand, signed by JM . The Senate approved the nomination on 14 Mar. 1816 ( Senate Exec. Proceedings, Journal of the Executive Proceedings of the Senate of the...
1184From James Madison to Alexander J. Dallas, 6 September 1816 (Madison Papers)
I return the answers of the Banks to the Treasury proposition. Some of them, I observe, are sore at the idea of their yielding to the temptation of gain, in prolonging the refusal to resume specie payments. The best mode of repelling the suspicion would be to dispose of their public stock, and thus reduce their dividends. Whilst they refuse to co-operate with the Treasury, that circumstance...
1185James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 23 April 1810 (Jefferson Papers)
Yours of the 16 th has been rec d . It is not improbable that there will be an early occasion to send for public purposes, a ship to G.B. & France; & that Norfolk will be the port of Departure. I recommend therefore that your plow be lodged there as soon as may be, with the proper instructions to your Agent. It may not be amiss to include in them a discretion to forward the plow to any other...
1186From James Madison to James Monroe, [ca. 29 November 1816] (Madison Papers)
It will be proper to take the steps suggested by Mr. Joy for obtaining further information. My enquiry as to Nootka Sound had reference to the grounds of the Brit. claim there, and its analogy to that of the U.S. at the mouth of Columbia. See Vancouvre’s acct. of the B. proceedings at Nootka: also Capt: Morris’s communication to Mr Graham Ocr. 24. 1816. RC ( DNA : RG 59, ML ). Undated;...
1187From James Madison to Benjamin W. Crowninshield, 10 May 1815 (Madison Papers)
I have requested the Secy. of State to bring into consultation at Washington several subjects, which you will of course learn from him. Among them is the expediency of discontinuing the suspension of the Algerine expedition; with perhaps a reduction of the force to a minimum. The stake & the temptation being thus diminished, the objections to the departure of Commodore Decatur wd. be...
1188Pardon for Clinton Adams and Randall Tarrier, 12 February 1817 (Madison Papers)
Whereas at a Circuit Court of the United States for the County of Washington, in the District of Columbia, held in the month of June last, Clinton Adams and Randall Terrier were convicted of a felony, in robbing upon the Public High-Way, whereupon the said Clinton Adams & Randall Terrier were sentenced by the said Court to suffer the punishment of Death, by Hanging, at a day assigned for that...
1189From James Madison to Samuel Lane, 12 July 1816 (Madison Papers)
I recd. yesterday yours of the 5th. Having full confidence in the judgment of Mr. Hassler, I take for granted that the scite chosen by him for an Observatory is well adapted to it. In comparing it however with others, it is necessary to attend to the difference in the degree of fitness, and in the cost of ground and of conveniency to the public. Mr. Munroe Superintendant of the City will...
1190From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 1 May 1809 (Madison Papers)
I am just favored with yours of the 27th. Young Gelston is here preparing to take his passage for France as bearer and expositor of dispatches, in the Syren sloop of war which is waiting for him at Baltimore. He leaves this tomorrow morning. Mr. Gallatin has had a conversation with Turreau at his residence near Baltimore. He professes to be confident that his Govt. will consider England as...
1191From James Madison to the Senate, 27 February 1816 (Madison Papers)
I nominate, William Habersham, of Georgia, to be a Commissioner of Loans of the same State in the place of Robert Habersham resigned. RC ( DNA : RG 46, Executive Proceedings, Nominations, 14B–A1). In John Payne Todd’s hand, signed by JM . The Senate approved the nomination of Habersham on 2 Mar. 1816 ( Senate Exec. Proceedings, Journal of the Executive Proceedings of the Senate of the United...
1192Pardon for William Lathram, [14 February 1810] (Madison Papers)
James Madison President of the United States of America, To all who shall see these presents, Greeting Whereas it has been represented to me that a certain William Lathram, late of the County of Alexandria in the District of Columbia, yeoman, was at a Circuit Court lately holden for the same county, duly convicted of keeping an ill governed and disorderly house, and was thereupon sentenced by...
1193From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 7 December 1810 (Madison Papers)
The letter inclosed came to me as you see it; and tho’ probably meant more for me than you, is forwarded according to its ostensible destination. We have nothing from abroad, more than has been made public. The latest date from Pinkn[e]y is the 3d. of Ocr. The arrival of Novr. will have been some test, positive or negative of the views of England. Her party here seems puzzled more than usual....
1194From James Madison to John Armstrong, 24 February 1811 (Madison Papers)
Letter not found. 24 February 1811. Mentioned in Armstrong to JM, 3 Mar. 1811 , as discussing the character and conduct of David Bailie Warden in relation to the American consulate in Paris. Also mentioned in Armstrong to Jonathan Russell, 5 Mar. 1811, as JM’s answer to Armstrong’s suggestion that Russell be appointed as minister to France. “You had,” Armstrong wrote Russell, “no friends in...
1195From James Madison to Alexander J. Dallas, 20 April 1815 (Madison Papers)
I have just recd. yours of . I wish that the arrival of Brown, may have been followed by a compromise satisfactory to Ripley. If it should not, the case of the latter becomes unpleasant in several respects. Can a Court of Enquiry be refused if he insists on it? I am led to believe that if disappointed altogether, he will think himself bound to lay his case before the public. It must be...
1196From James Madison to Robert Patton, 29 October 1810 (Madison Papers)
Letter not found. 29 October 1810. Acknowledged in Patton to JM, 8 Nov. 1810 (DLC). Inquires about the purchase of a gray horse to replace one of a pair that has died.
1197From James Madison to David Parish, 1 February 1816 (Madison Papers)
I recd. yours several days ago. Having recd. no information on the subject of it for a long time, I have been seeking it from the persons most likely to know what has taken place at N. O. relative to it, and what the prospect for Genl. Fayette is. As yet my enquiries have not succeeded, and I drop you this notice, lest you shd. infer from the delay that your letter had miscarried, or had not...
1198From James Madison to Andrew Ellicott, 7 July 1810 (Madison Papers)
Your favor of Novr. 8. was duly received. I must trust to your own friendly inferences, for an apology for so long a delay in acknowledging it. I found that there were in the Navy Office three Sheets of Gaulds Survey referred to in your letter. They are now in my hands. I find also, among the Charts handed over by Mr. Jefferson: one, on a large scale, of the Coasts of W. Florida, & Louisiana,...
1199From James Madison to John Armstrong, 16 August 1814 (Madison Papers)
Note to Secy. of War, on Gaines lette⟨r⟩ of Aug: 7. It ought certainly to be at the discretion of Gaines to cross the Niagara. This may be made prudent by large re-inforcemts. to the Enemy, even after receivg 2000 from Izard’s army. Buffalo & Black rock must also claim his attention; whilst the Enemy are placed so conveniently for enterprizes agst. them. If Izard should be unable by leaving a...
1200From James Madison to Elbridge Gerry, 3 June 1812 (Madison Papers)
I have been so intensely occupied since I was favored with your two letters of the 19th. & 20th. May, that I could not snatch an earlier moment to acknowledge them. It gives me much pleasure to learn that you retain so much confidence in the soundness & firmness of the great body of the friends to republican principles, with respect to an assertion of the national rights, in the only mode now...