James Madison Papers

To James Madison from Thomas Auldjo, 3 January 1804 (Abstract)

§ From Thomas Auldjo

3 January 1804, Cowes. “I embrace the opportunity of a ship bound to the Chesapeake to inform you that our prices of grain in consequence of the late abundant crop, have declined lately so that wheat is 6/3 a 6/6—Barley 3/ a 3/3 & Oats 2/9 a 3/ Pr bushel Winchester measure.1 Our Wheat is heavy this year & averages 60 pounds Pr bushel. Fine flour is 44/ Pr Sack of 280 pounds or about 17/6 Str PrCt. The trade & navigation of the United States has not experienced any unusual interruption from the state of War in these parts; I may Say that fewer instances have occurred of American Ships brought into port, than heretofore. The impressing seems also to be carried on with more regard to propriety & the feelings of neutrals than last war.

“It is now said that the crisis for the invasion of this country is now approaching very fast & every thing is in readiness for a proper reception of the Enemy. A short time will prove the determined spirit of this Country.”

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