Thomas McCleland to James Madison, 9 February 1836
Baltimore February 9th—1836
Sir
I feel extremely obliged to you for the polite manner in which you have been pleased to notice my letter. I will further add I was induced to address you on the subject as the President of the society, not thinking at the moment I was addressing one of the framers of the Constitution, although a moments reflection would have told me that was the case, which makes your silence on the subject not only excusable but perfectly proper. However I cannot refrain from expressing my regrett at the situation in which my plan of a National Monument places one whose opinion in this case, would circumstances permit be invaluable I remain Sir with grate Respect your most Obedient and very hum, sert,
Thomas McCleland
RC (DLC).