1Robert E. Cochran to James Monroe, 8 April 1813 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
8 April 1813, Charleston. “I am directed by Judge Drayton to forward to you, for the information of the President & to receive his determination thereon, copies of certain affidavits & other papers relative to an ⟨a⟩lien enemy.” RC and enclosures ( DNA : RG 94, War of 1812, Records Relating to Prisoners, entry 127-A, box 8, folder 3, bundle 163). RC 1 p. For enclosures, see n. 1. Cochran...
2James Monroe to Thomas Jefferson, 16 November 1815 (Jefferson Papers)
Permit me to present to your acquaintance & to that of your family m r Gray & his Lady of Boston . M r Gray is the son of the late L t governor of Mass : who is so well known to you for his patriotism, & attachment to the republican cause. He is on a visit to the southern states, & from motives of respect, is particularly desirous, of being made to
3James Monroe’s Account of a Conversation with Thomas Jefferson, [30 November 1809] (Jefferson Papers)
I do not know what particular fact or circumstance can have given rise to the apprehension lately intimated to you by our friend, which you have been so good as to notice in yours. I will state, the what has occurr’d, between the respectable character alluded to, & me, since you were here, to enable you to judge how far there is just foundation for it. The day before I had intended to set out...
4Commission of John Quincy Adams, James A. Bayard, Henry Clay, and Jonathan Russell, [18 January 1814] (Madison Papers)
To all whom these Presents shall concern, Greeting. Reposing especial Trust and confidence in the Integrity, Prudence and Ability of John Quincy Adams, at present the Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States at the Court of His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of all the Russias, James A. Bayard, late a Senator of the United States, Henry Clay Speaker of the House of Representatives of the...
5Commission for George W. Campbell, [30 July 1814] (Madison Papers)
Having thought fit to commit to you the charge of borrowing on behalf of the United States, any sum not exceeding twenty-five millions of dollars, pursuant to the act entitled “an act to authorise a loan for a sum not exceeding twenty-five millions of dollars,” passed on the twenty-fourth day of March, one thousand eight hundred and fourteen, I do hereby make known to you that in the execution...
6Commission of Albert Gallatin, [9 February 1814] (Madison Papers)
To all whom these presents shall concern—Greeting: Reposing special Trust and confidence in the Integrity, prudence and Abilities of Albert Gallatin, late Secretary of the Treasury of the United States, I have nominated, and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate appointed him jointly and severally with John Q Adams, James A Bayard, Henry Clay and Jonathan Russell, Minister...
7Remission of Forfeiture for the Sloop Fame, 4 March 1815 (Madison Papers)
Whereas it has been represented to me that a certain Sloop, or vessel, called the Fame, whereof Barnabas Haskell was master, did, some time in the year 1814, commit a breach of the act of Congress passed on the 2d of August, 1813, entitled “An Act to prohibit the use of licenses, or passes, granted by the authority of the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland,” and...
8James Monroe to Thomas Jefferson, 7 May 1814 (Jefferson Papers)
The bearer M r M c Cullock of Baltimore was introduc’d to me by a particular friend there, with a request that I would make him known to you. He is the son of the collector of that port , & represented to have made considerable progress in the knowledge of natural history, for which science he is said to have much taste and a strong passion. He has stud i ed medic i ne in Phil a , & passed the...
9To James Madison from James Monroe, [ca. 1 December 1813] (Madison Papers)
It is not known that the British govt. has accepted the mediation of Russia; nothing has been receved from our ministers employed under it; and no intimation to that effect has been communicated to this govt., either from the Emperor of Russia, or from the British govt. Early accounts, after the appointment & departure of our Envoys, indicated the rejection of that friendly overture, & altho...
10James Monroe to Thomas Jefferson, 6 January 1812 (Jefferson Papers)
A circumstance has occurr’d with which it may be useful for you to be made acquainted , with, merely to put you on your guard. you have doubtless seen a letter publish’d in the gazettes, which is imputed to Gen l Wilkinson & said to be written from this place in 1803. to Mr Power at N. Orleans , requesting him to use the
11To James Madison from James Monroe, 24 December 1812 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
24 December 1812, War Department. Proposes for JM’s approval various “Promotions in the Army of the United States.” Letterbook copy ( DNA : RG 107, LSP ). 1 p. Monroe’s suggestions for promotions in the Fifth and Seventh Infantry Regiments were recommended to the Senate by JM on 31 Dec. ( Senate Exec. Proceedings Journal of the Executive Proceedings of the Senate of the United States of...
12To James Madison from James Monroe, 12 August 1816 (Madison Papers)
Mr Bagot has offerd, an alternative, in the coast of the Island of New Foundland, from Cape Ray to the Raimia Islands, if preferr’d to that on the Labrador, from Mt. Joli to the bay of Esquimaux. I have conferr’d with Mr Homans respecting it, who fears that it is too much Subjected to fog. I believe it will be best to refer it to Mr Adams with all the light we can obtain, together with the...
13James Monroe to Thomas Jefferson, 7 June 1813 (Jefferson Papers)
During the last session of Congress the current business pressed so heavily on me, and after its adjournment, the preparation of instructions for our ministers employed under the mediation of Russia , and in other duties connected with it, kept me so constantly engaged that I have scarcely had a moment of respite since I left you. I seize one to communicate some details, which it may be...
14To James Madison from James Monroe, 16 December 1814 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
§ From James Monroe. 16 December 1814, War Department. “The Senate having declined confirming the promotions of Captains Graham & Massias of the 1st. Rifle Regiment, the confirmation of the other promotions in the Rifle Regiment, conformably to the list now before the Senate, would be irregular. I have, therefore, the honor, in lieu of it, to propose the enclosed list.” RC and enclosure ( DNA...
15To James Madison from James Monroe, 20 August 1814 (Madison Papers)
I arrived here this morning at 8 OClock, and have been since within 4 miles of Benedict, at Butler’s mill, where it was reported the enemy, on their march, had arrived. The report was unfounded. The enemy landed yesterday at Benedict, and had advanced their pickets, within a mile and a half of that mill, for security only. From a height, between that mill and the Patuxent, I had a view of...
16James Monroe to Thomas Jefferson, 23 November 1813 (Jefferson Papers)
The enclosed was written before my late visit to Albemarle , and detaind in consequence of it, to be deliverd in person, but afterwards forgotten and left here. I need not add my sincere desire that you will have the goodness to decide the question to which it relates. we have nothing from abroad, immediately, concerning our own affairs; and no new light as to the result, of the great battles,...
17To James Madison from James Monroe, 14 April 1815 (Madison Papers)
I return you mr Jefferson’s letters, having shewn them to mr Dallas. I enclose some letters from mr Pinkney in one of which he is joined by mr Nicholson. As the communication is of a delicate nature, I do not wish them to be returnd here till about thursday next, as I leave town to morrow for Loudoun & may not get back till wednesday evening. When returnd, note, them as private. I see nothing...
18James Monroe to Thomas Jefferson, 16 April 1811 (Jefferson Papers)
The minister of Russia , Count Pahlen & his brother , having intimated their intention to make you a visit at Monticello , I have taken the liberty to give them this introduction. The publick character of these respectable foreigners, would, I well know, secure them your kind reception, & friendly attention, but you will be gratified to know that they have high claims from personal merit. RC (...
19To James Madison from James Monroe, 8 September 1812 (Madison Papers)
I have yours of the 6th. I am willing & ready to act in either character alluded to. The effect on public opinion would be greater, if indeed any useful effect might be expected from it, by appointing me to command, than merely making a visit to the country. In the latter case, I would do every thing in my power to promote an organization of the forces, to digest their plan of operations, &...
20To James Madison from James Monroe, 18 January 1814 (Madison Papers)
The Secretary of State, to whom was referred the Resolution of the House of Representatives of the Eleventh inst, requesting the President to communicate to the House any information in his possession and which it may not be improper to divulge in relation to the omission or refusal of the French government to accredit the Minister Plenipotentiary sent by the United States to that Court, or of...
21To James Madison from James Monroe, 16 June 1815 (Madison Papers)
I have receivd yours of the 12th. Since my return home I have recover’d daily from the debilitating effect of my late indisposition, so that I have reason to presume on a thorough restoration in a short time, if circumstances shod. allow me to remain here. I feel however uneasy lest something shod. occur in which my absence might be improper. I am surprised that we hear nothing from our...
22To James Madison from James Monroe, 4 August 1815 (Madison Papers)
We have had no rain since my arrival here, nor had there been any for some time before. The most discouraging prospect for corn exists, which added to a defective crop of small grain, menaces us with almost a famine. I am glad to hear that the Neptune has enterd the Delaware. Of the Passengers we shall be better informd tomorrow. I send every paper back to the depts. lately receivd except that...
23To James Madison from James Monroe, 22 February 1817 (Madison Papers)
The Secretary of State, to whom was referred the resolution of the Senate of the 20th instant, requesting “the President to lay before the Senate a copy of the correspondence between the government of the United States and the government of Spain, relative to the subjects of controversy between the two nations, except such part as he may deem improper to disclose,” has the honour to submit to...
24To James Madison from James Monroe, 22 July 1815 (Madison Papers)
Mr Serurier presented to me yesterday a copy of his letter of credence from the Emperor reappointing him Minister to the ustates. He read me at the same time the letter accompanying it from the minister of his govt., by which he was instructed to state that his govt. was resolvd to cultivate the most friendly relations with the UStates: that in case they engaged in war, they would respect our...
25To James Madison from James Monroe, 27 June 1816 (Madison Papers)
I return’d here yesterday morning, having been prevented arriving the preceding evening by the rain. The case with Algiers is interesting. The sentiments expressd in your letter of the 25th. which I have just receivd, accord in every circumstance, with those of the gentlemen in the admn. here. Anxious to communicate theirs, to you, we had an informal meeting on the subject yesterday, in which...
26To James Madison from James Monroe, 14 August 1816 (Madison Papers)
The Spanish officer to whom the enclosed papers relate, having obtaind an interview, presented them, and pressed most earnestly for such aid, or countenance, as would enable him to obtain it of individuals, as their present exigencies requird. He wanted particularly four or five vessels to take supplies from St Domingo, to some part of the coast, where he might co operate with Bolivar, and...
27To John Adams from James Monroe, 15 February 1813 (Adams Papers)
I have the pleasure to inclose to you a report of a the com: of the. 7th. on our for: relations with govts. in which the communications wh took place between the Ex: of the US. & the Br. govt., are review’d, & the a project of an act of congress, relative to seamen submitted to considerations—The object of the report seems to be and as it undoubtdly is, to place the controversy between the two...
28To James Madison from James Monroe, 21 August 1814 (Madison Papers)
I quartered last night near charlotte Hall, and took a view this morning at 8 oClock, from a commanding height, below Benedict Creek, of all the enemy’s shipping near the town and down the river, to the distance at least, of 8 or 10 miles. I counted 23 Square rigged vessels. Few others were to be seen, and very few barges. I inferred from the latter circumstance that the enemy had moved up the...
29James Monroe to Thomas Jefferson, 30 September 1816 (Jefferson Papers)
The inclosed was left with me by M r Rush , for your opinion, of the propriety of the measure proposed. I retaind it, in the hope of finding you alone, before we separated, for a moments conversation on the subject. The first question is, whether such a notice of the occurrence, which it is proposed to commemorate, is proper, or silent contempt, will be, more expressive, & dignified? You will...
30James Monroe to Thomas Jefferson, 21 December 1814 (Jefferson Papers)
On enquiry I found that major Armstead had been regularly appointed principal assessor for our district by the advice of the senate & been furnishd with his commission. It had been intended, as I understood, to appt M r Minor , but the office of Collector , having been disposed of in our county , it was decided on the distributive principle to confer the other office on some person in another...
31To James Madison from James Monroe, 18 January 1814 (Madison Papers)
The Secretary of State, to whom was referred the Resolution of the House of Representatives of the 13th inst, requesting the President to lay before the House such documents relative to the Russian mediation, as in his opinion it may not be improper to communicate, has the honor to transmit to the President, for the information of the House, the following letters in relation to that subject...
32To James Madison from James Monroe, 4 May 1815 (Madison Papers)
I have receivd yours of the 28th. april, from monticello. The late events in France will doubtless be sensibly felt by most of the powers of Europe, and even by the UStates. I suggested some ideas in my last, growing out of them, for your consideration. With those powers, generally, there is no regard for principle. Every thing is decided, by a prospect of advantage, & renown. I have no doubt...
33To John Adams from James Monroe, 10 April 1813 (Adams Papers)
Since writing the letter—inclosd, to Mrs. Adams, I have conferr’d with the President on the subject of your sons return, and am authorised to state to you, that in case of peace with G Britain, the mission to London will be offer’d to him. The conduct of your son, it gives me pleasure to state, has obtaind the entire approbation of the President.—It is hoped that it will suit his convenience...
34To James Madison from James Monroe, 1 October 1814 (Madison Papers)
The Undersigned acting as Secretary of State to whom was referred the Resolution of the Senate, requesting the President to cause to be laid before the Senate such information in his possession, respecting the existing state of the Relations between the United States and the Continental powers of Europe as he may deem not improper to be communicated, has the honor to report: That the Relations...
35To James Madison from James Monroe, 12 October 1813 (Madison Papers)
Finding that my arrangments in Loudoun might be completed on the day I arriv’d there, I came down on the following day, monday. Altho the upper road is bad, I still think it will be found better than either of the others. Some letters are recd. from Mr Crawford, the most important of wh. are in cypher. They shall be forwarded without delay we have nothing from our comrs. Chauncey’s fate is...
36To James Madison from James Monroe, 8 November 1814 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
§ From James Monroe. 8 November 1814, War Department. “I have the honor respectfully to submit for your approbation the following list of appointments in the Army of the United States. “I have also to request that the enclosed list of promotions may be substituted for the list of promotions in the Light Artillery and Riflemen now before the Senate, and that the name of Garret E. Pendergrast...
37To John Adams from James Monroe, 27 April 1812 (Adams Papers)
An accident lately occurr’d which has given me great concern. The inclosed letter was received, with many others, several from your son at St Petersburg, & laid before me in the dept. of State. I opend it, without looking at the Superscription. On reading a line or two, I perceived the error I had committed, & searching for the address found the envelopes of two letters, one addressed to you,...
38To James Madison from James Monroe, [ca. 26 August] 1811 (Madison Papers)
Some very interesting domestick concerns which could not well be postponed, seconded by the state of the wound on my leg, prevented my having the pleasure of waiting on you in the last week, but I shall be with you to morrow if no accident presents an obstacle to it. I shall bring all the papers with me which it will be necessary to submit to your view at this time. Indeed many things have...
39To James Madison from James Monroe, 9 September 1812 (Madison Papers)
I have nothing from you to day. Col Cass has arrivd & gives the same acct. heretofore recd. from others of the surrender of Detroit. Genl Cushing thinks that a power to grant a volunteer comn., to give effect to the law, is a necessary construction of it. I shall, unless some other view be taken in the course of the day, accept such a comn. & set out in discharge of it, in a few days. A short...
40To James Madison from James Monroe, 16 May 1814 (Madison Papers)
I enclose you a copy of a letter sent yesterday to genl. winder, relating to the communication between Col. P. & Col: Baynes, which were forwarded to you a day or two before. A stronger paper was authorised by the heads of depts., but I afterwards moderated the terms, retaining the sense. The distinction in it, is so obvious, between the passage which expresses, the sense of the govt. on...
41James Monroe to Thomas Jefferson, 14 February 1814 (Jefferson Papers)
my engagment in preparing instructions, for our ministers at gottenburg , Russia , Sweden , & Paris , for M r Clay & M r Russell to take with them, prevented my answering sooner your favor of the 27 th ult
42To James Madison from James Monroe, 3 February 1815 (Madison Papers)
I send you letters from General Jackson which give an account of a victory truly glorious. It will be well to send them to Gales, except that which I have marked to be retained—unless indeed so much of the letter of the 9th. as relates to the conduct of the Kentuckey militia should also be retaind, tho I do not see how it can be, as similar statments will soon force themselves on the public RC...
43From James Monroe to Abigail Smith Adams, 10 April 1813 (Adams Papers)
I fear that the pressure of much business, and an anxiety to avail myself of a moment of leisuir, to write to Mr Adams in reply to his kind letter, made me delay it longer than I ought to have done. I now return you the letter—which he had the goodness to submit to my perusal, and with many thanks to him for it. The sentiments which it conveys do honor to the head & the heart of the author—....
44To James Madison from James Monroe, 25 April 1815 (Madison Papers)
I have yours of the 23 d. Col: Aspinwall is desirous of obtaining the appointment to London as you were apprizd before you left us. The principal competitors are Col: Drayton & Com: Barney. The loss of his arm gives him I think a stronger claim than either of the others, and will perhaps reconcile both of them to his appointment. His appointment would open a place in the army for some other...
45To James Madison from James Monroe, 26 April 1815 (Madison Papers)
The instructions & comn., to mr Shaler & the commodores, and letter to the Dey were forwarded yesterday, soon after the receit of which, it may be presumd, from the of preparation in which the squadron is, that it will sail. I sent letters to the secretaries of State of all the powers on the mediteranean, notifying the measure and expressing your desire that the squadron might be recd. kindly...
46To James Madison from James Monroe, 13 September 1813 (Madison Papers)
I have been much engaged in my private concerns, tho’ rather indisposed, since my return home, so that I have not been able to enter on any serious business. I shall begin to day to take up the most pressing. I retain for the present Sodestroms comns., believing that their effect will be to license a trade with the enemy. I return the letters of the Secry at war and of the navy. Respectfully &...
47To James Madison from James Monroe, [22 August 1814] (Madison Papers)
The enemy are advanced six miles on the road to the wood Yard, and our troops retiring. Our troops were on the march to meet them, but in too small a body to engage. General W. proposes to retire, till he can collect them in a body. The enemy are in full march for Washington. Have the materials prepared to destroy the bridges. You had better remoove the records. Tr ( DNA : RG 233, Committee...
48James Monroe to Thomas Jefferson, 28 April 1816 (Jefferson Papers)
The enclosed may gave you some amusment. I have read neither, and cannot therefore speak of their merits. one is attributed to armstrong & the other to winder. The book which you were so kind as to send me respecting Louisiana will be taken advantage of, in the contemplated discussion with the Spanish gov t . It shall be restord afterwards. your letter to Miss Bruff was sent to her as soon as...
49To James Madison from James Monroe, 24 August 1815 (Madison Papers)
I arriv’d here on the 21., and have already deriv’d advantage from the use of the water. I propose to leave this for the sweet springs on the 28. or 9., and after remaining there a week at most, to return home, where I expect to be on the 12., if not sooner. My hope is sanguine, that this trip will completely restore my health. This water, promises to remove every unfavorable simptom of bile,...
50From James Monroe to Abigail Smith Adams, 3 December 1811 (Adams Papers)
I have had the Honor to receive your Letter of the 28th ult. covering one to your Son the American Minister at St Petersburg. I fear it will be too late for the “Hornet” sloop of war: but I have had it put under cover to Mr Barlow and sent to the Collector of the Customs at Newyork, requesting him to forward it by the first safe conveyance With great Respect / I have the Honor to be / Madam /...