James Madison Papers

To James Madison from Rufus King, 5 August 1802 (Abstract)

§ From Rufus King

5 August 1802, London. No. 74. Requests that the president accept his resignation and permit him to return home.1 Had originally intended to serve no more than four years, but the war and subsequent negotiations kept him in Great Britain for six. Believing there is “nothing very material remaining to be discussed, in which I can flatter myself with being able to render any important Service,” wishes to be relieved in April. Asks permission to transport his family and personal possessions in a U.S. frigate, which would be safer and less expensive than passage in a private ship.

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