From James Madison to James Monroe, 6 April 1795
To James Monroe
Philada. April 6. 1795
Dear Sir
I have written several letters of late in which I have been pretty full in my details and remarks. In one of them I acknowledged your letter to Mr. R of Decr. 18. and stated my reasons for not witholding it. I have since recd. the original of that letter sent by the way of Havre, together with the copies of it submitted to my discretion; which I have thought it most consistent with your intentions, not to forward at all. I have however rather come to that decision as the safer one, than under any particular impression that a contrary course would have been improper. This will go by Docr. Edwards,1 who furnishes a good opportunity for the Cypher inclosed, of the rect. of which I wish to be apprised as soon as possible. As the Docr. will not embark for some time, and more particularly as he will be possessed of every information I could give, I shall not enlarge at present. I am on the point of setting out for Virginia with my family, whence I shall write as occasions invite. You will recollect that the Post now passes by my door, and consequently your let⟨ters⟩ wherever they may arrive, will get quickly & safely to hand. With my best respects & regards to you both I am Dr. Sir Yr. friend & servt.
Js. Madison Jr
RC (DLC). JM enclosed a cipher key to the code that Jefferson had sent him on 11 May 1785 (DLC: Monroe Papers).
1. Dr. Enoch Edwards of Philadelphia was one of several Americans “whose enthusiasm for the revolutionary cause had drawn them to France.” Monroe “talked rather too freely with him, for Edwards was inclined to be indiscreet” (Ammon, James Monroe, p. 134).