James Madison Papers

To James Madison from William Cooke, 27 November 1801 (Abstract)

§ From William Cooke

27 November 1801, Havana. Encloses documents describing his treatment at the hands of Don Luis de Viguri, intendant at Havana, which led to the seizure of his ship and other property, the imprisonment of himself and his crew, and the subsequent death of three seamen.1 Hopes these documents, together with the explanation of George C. Morton, who is taking charge of the documents, will inform JM of his situation. Implores JM’s aid in obtaining redress. Has appealed the intendant’s sentence to a higher tribunal, not expecting justice, but to demonstrate the lack of it in Havana. Wishes to carry case to Madrid and asks JM’s advice on how to proceed further. Adds on 5 Dec. that he is still detained under bail of $50,000, “notwithstanding they have every dollar of my property.”

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