James Madison to Robley Dunglison, 15 June 1831
Montpellier, June 15. 1831
Dear Sir,
I have received your letter of the 11th., and will not disguise the fact, that notwithstanding my sympathy with the considerations, which might have deprived the University of your valuable services, I learn with satisfaction, that the danger has not been realized; and I hope experience will prove, that the mountain climate is less charged with rheumatic tendencies than occurred to you in your anxiety for the health of Mrs Dunglison
I am very desirous of giving on the approaching occasion" (of the meeting of the visitors at the University) "an attendance, which cannot be often, if at all, repeated. But the effort, I fear, will not be permitted by the decrepit state of my health. In case of its sufficient improvement, my inclination will insure a fulfilment of my duty. Be the event as it may, I beg you to be assured of my great esteem, and of the interest which Mrs Madison jointly with myself feel in your and Mrs Dunglison’s health and happiness.
James Madison.
Copied in Autobiography of Dr. Robley Dunglison [1825-36], vol. 3, p. 352 (Library of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia).