James Madison Papers

James Madison to Samuel L. Gouverneur, 1 February 1833

Feby 1833

Dear Sir

Yr letter of the 26 Ult: was duly recd. It would give me real pleasure to aid the object you have in view. But after a lapse of so many years my memory, tho’ I have allowed it a little time for its efforts, furnishes no facts within the scope of your enquiry; and I can refer to nothing in my files that could fill the blank. I can only therefore express my entire confidence that the part Mr. Monroe had in the investigation alluded to, was dictated by what he deemed a public duty; and that after the investigation he was incapable of any thing that wd. justify resentful feelings on the part of the family of General Hamilton.

Of the public disclosure of the matter of the investigation, other than that from the avowed source, I know nothing; except that it could not proceed from the packet of papers deposited with me by Mr. M., which was never opened until it was returned to him, after his Mission had terminated.

I am very thankful for the kind interest taken by yourself and your family in my welfare; and offer to all as Mrs M does affece. remembrances, and every good wishs.

Draft (DLC).

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