To James Madison from Jean Joseph Amable Humbert, 3 September 1816
From Jean Joseph Amable Humbert
New orleans 3. Sept. 1816
Sir.
Permit a republican soldier to address you with frankness; I have served the Country I live in, and the general government of the United States both in my personal and political exertions: As yet I have not received a discharge from the Service, nor have My accounts been duly adjusted: to this fact the residents of Louisiana and the constituted Authorities can testify. In three months I could in the range of the whole extent of the United States raise ten thousand men without violating the Military Code of your government whenever you may see fit to honor me with your confidence; that I may transmit orders in the name of the Government. I have the honor &c
(signed) Humbert.
Translation of RC (DNA: RG 107, LRUS, H-1816). RC (DNA: RG 107, LRUS, H-1817). Translation in an unidentified hand; verso docketed “3d. Sept. 1816 Can raise 2000 men.” RC in French; cover postmarked at New Orleans, “Sep 1⟨0⟩”; redirected by JM to “The Department of War”; docketed incorrectly on fold “Sept. 3. 1817” and filed accordingly; a second docket reads “Concerning his accounts”; damaged by removal of seal.