To James Madison from Stephen Cathalan Jr., 5 November 1806
From Stephen Cathalan Jr.
Marseilles the 5th. November 1806.
Sir
In pursuance of your order, thro’ Mr. Julius Oliver, of the 8th. last January, which he transmitted to me from Bordeaux (where he is Still detained Since his arrival there from Philadelphia) I have the honor of remiting you here inclosed Bill of lading for the hermitage Wines and other provisions you desired from me to procure you1—which I have Shipped on the American built & Registered Schooner Three Friends of Baltimore, Capn. Edward Harvey, bound from This to Baltimore and Ready to Sail, She is to Call to Barcelona in her way, But I hope she will meet with a Short passage.
Opportunities for the Cheasapeak, are very Scarce from this port, the more So, in the Season proper to Send fresh provisions. I have none, now, for the Wine &a. for Senr. P. Butler, which he directed me to Send him to Philadelphia, or Newyork, only.
I have passed on your debet as Pr Invoice here inclosed F. 1232—making @f. 5.30/100—⅌ $=$232.46,2 for which I take the Liberty of valuing on you this Day in my 1st. 2d. & 3d. Bills of Exchange unto my own order, payable at thirty days Sight, which I Beg you to honor.
Mr. Jourdan of Tain has Thought proper in order the Chests of Hermitage Wine Should be all of 50 Bottles, to put in the one no. 331, 25 bottles white Hermitage wine, Cotillon, Sealed with yellow wax 1802 @ f. 3. ⅌ Blle. whereof he assures me you will be Satisfy’d. I Have the Honor to be always at your Commands and with Respect Sir, Your most obedt. & devoted Servant.
Stephen Cathalan Junr.
RC, two copies, and enclosures (DLC). Second RC marked “Copy.” For enclosures, see nn. 1–2.
1. The enclosed bill of lading (1 p.), dated 31 October 1806, listed two hundred bottles of Hermitage wine; twenty-four bottles of superfine olive oil; forty-eight bottles of capers, olives, and anchovies; one box of almonds, prunes, and figs; and one jar of preserved fruit.
2. The enclosed invoice for 1,232 francs is dated 31 October 1806 (1 p.). Cathalan sent JM a separate 5 November 1806 note (1 p.) stating: “This is to Advise you, that I have, on This day, Valued on you, in my First, Second & Third of Exchange at thirty days Sight for two Hundred & thirty two dollars & forty Six Cents—being for the full amount of my Invoice of Sundry provisions purchased for you, by your orders” (DLC).