James Madison Papers

To James Madison from George W. Campbell, 26 September 1814

From George W. Campbell

Washington City 26th. Septr. 1814

Dear Sir,

The very impaired state of my health and the little probability of its speedy restoration without a change of air & the benefit of exercise render it indispensible that I should, for the present, withdraw from public business. I have therefore thought it my duty, in order to prevent the public interest from sustaining any inconvenience thereby, to resign my appointment as Secretary of the Treasury; which accordingly I hereby do.

At this eventful crisis in our affairs, nothing but necessity imposed by causes not within my own control would have induced me to take this step.1 I cannot however disolve the tie by which I have been connected with your administration, without tendering to you, Sir, my warmest acknowledgements for the distinguished confidence & friendship with which you have been pleased to honor me; and expressing my ardent solicitations for your individual happiness & prosperity. With Sentiments of the highest personal respect & consideration, I have the honor To be, Sir, Your most Obedt. Servt.

G W Campbell

RC (DLC); draft (DLC: George W. Campbell Papers). RC docketed by JM.

1In the draft, Campbell wrote and canceled here: “I consider it however due to the public as well as to myself: & the regret I feel on the occasion is diminished by the consideration that little difficulty will be experienced in filling the vacancy with advantage to the public service.”

Index Entries