James Madison to Edward Everett, 30 January 1836
Montpellier Jany. 30. 1836
Dear Sir
I have received the copy of your address to the two branches of the Legislature, which I have read with much pleasure. It is what I should have taken for certain it would be, a very able document, and of a character appropriate to the occasion. I am not sure however, that I ought to congratulate you on the event, which led to the address, since it withdraws your services from a wider theatre, at a crisis, which involves topics, peculiarly requiring, the most enlightened and conciliating counsels. With my thanks for your polite attention, accept assurances of my high and cordial esteem.
James Madison
RC (MHi: Everett Collection); FC (DLC).