To James Madison from John Barnes, 21 March 1809
From John Barnes
George Town, 21st. March 1809.
Sir,
I regret exceedingly my Unfortunate situation—will not—at present, permit me the Honor, of paying my Personal respects—to the President of the U States.
The inclosed Note of the late President I received on his leaving Town,1 with directions to Mr Davidson for the sum & date to have the Blanks filled up with—which Mr. Davidson—(have now) adjusted—and wait Only—the endorsemts. to be deposited in Bank for—Negociation. With the greatest Respect, I have the Honor to be sir—your most Obedt. servt
John Barnes.2
RC (DLC); enclosure (MHi). RC docketed by JM.
1. Jefferson signed the enclosed promissory note, but its blanks were not filled in. It was canceled and apparently replaced by a note to the Bank of the United States endorsed by JM and Barnes (Jefferson to JM, 22 May 1809).
2. John Barnes moved from Philadelphia to Georgetown and operated a mercantile house that flourished during Jefferson’s administration (Malone, Jefferson and His Time, 6:39).