From James Madison to Frederick Beasley, 24 November 1823
To Frederick Beasley
Montpellier Novr. 24. 1823
Reverend Sir
I received a few days ago a copy of “A search of truth in the science of the human mind,”1 for which I perceive I am indebted to your politeness. Other engagements not permitting me at present to read it with the necessary attention, and it being uncertain how long the obstacles to that pleasure may continue, I do not delay the thanks which are due. From the manner in which the work has been spoken of, and from the reputation of its author, I can not doubt that it contributes to enlighten a subject which must always be among the most interesting, tho’ it may never be perfectly understood by minds that are imperfect. Be pleased to accept, Sir, the expression of my great respect.
James Madison
RC (PPAmP); draft (DLC). RC addressed by JM to Beasley; frank and postmark clipped; docketed by Beasley. Minor differences between the copies have not been noted. Frederick Beasley (1777–1845), of North Carolina, graduated from the College of New Jersey in 1797, was ordained an Episcopal priest in 1802, and occupied pulpits in Elizabethtown, New Jersey, Albany, New York, and Baltimore, Maryland, until 1813, when he accepted a position as provost of the University of Pennsylvania. He remained there until 1828. From 1829 to 1836 Beasley was rector of St. Michael’s Church in Trenton, New Jersey (Sprague, Annals of the American Pulpit, 5:477–80).
1. Frederick Beasley, A Search of Truth in the Science of the Human Mind, Part First (Philadelphia, 1822; 7980).