James Madison Papers

To James Madison from William Simmons, 30 January 1816

From William Simmons

Washington Jany 30th. 1816

Sir

The Secy of war informs me that the Interrogations & answers relative to the extortion practised upon the Cadets at West Point in the prices of the articles furnished to them, and the degrading manner in which they are treated for trifling offences have been referred to you,

The case of my son who is one of the Cadets & who has been pricked with bayonets and other ways inflicted with degrading punishment is not yet before you, the papers and proof I have now in my possession, as well as other documents and papers relative to the conduct of Capt A. Parterage one of the Professors, I could wish to have a personal interview with you, and to offer to you such proof & papers as I have in my possession which would seem to call for a reform in the institution at West Point. I will do myself the pleasure to wait upon you at any hour you may please to Signify—and am with great respect your Obt. Servt

Wm. Simmons

RC (DLC). Docketed by JM: “Simmonds Wm Jany. 30. 1816 May 10. 1816.”

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