Willis Alston to James Madison, 25 December 1829
Washington Decr 25th 1829
My Dear Sir
It may not be otherwise than gratifying to you to hear from one who you have long known and whose political course seldom if ever differed from yours
Your late vote in convention where you stood alone I should feel proud of, having viewed your proceedings throughout I think you have very few if any old friends here who does not feel perfectly satisfied The vote you give alone I most certainly should have given myself had I have been a member
Your task is a difficult and perplexing one, and it is very much doubted whether the result of your labours will tend to advance the character of the ancient Dominion
I will not fatigue with a long letter, of our doings here The news papers tell you better than I could by letter
Be so good as to remember to Mrs. Madison kindly, Tell her I have five little children three sons & two daughters I should be much pleased to shew them to her I am your sencere friend
Willis Alston
RC (DLC). Docketed by JM.