From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 12 August 1824
To Thomas Jefferson
Montpellier Aug 12. 1824
Dear Sir
The bearer Mr. E. Tayloe, son of Col: Tayloe of Washington is desirous of making a respectful call at Monticello, and I can not refuse to his motive, the gratification of a line presenting him to you. He is at present a resident at Fredericksburg, reading Law with his kinsman Mr Lomax; and appears to be quite estimable & amiable.
Mr T. is so good as to take charge of the 4 last volumes of Las Casas,1 which have been waiting for some such oppy. to get back to you. With every allowance for the painting talent & partial pencil of the Author, the picture of Napoleon, exhibits a most gigantic mind, & with some better features than the world has seen in his character. Affectionate respects
James Madison
P.S. I have just recd. your letter inclosing Mr. Gs. & Rs.
RC (owned by Sotheby’s, New York, N.Y., 1990). Docketed by Jefferson “recd Aug. 13.”
1. Emmanuel, Comte de Las Cases, Mémorial de Sainte-Hélène, ou Journal où se trouve consigné, jour par jour, ce qu’a dit et fait Napoléon durant dix-huit mois (8 vols.; Paris, 1823–24).