James Madison Papers

To James Madison from Caspar Wistar, Jr., 12 April 1810

From Caspar Wistar, Jr.

Philada. Apl. 12. 1810

Dr. Sir,

The letter which accompanies this was written at my request by one of my patients who lately commanded a Vessel in the London Trade. His communications respecting the subjects to which this letter refers appeared so interesting that I requested him to give me a statement in writing. Altho it is very probable that you have more full information, yet as it is possible that your communications may not include the same facts, I determined to forward them to you. This act of duty as a citizen is particularly agreeable to me as it affords me an opportunity of assuring you of my most sincere & respectful attachment

Caspar Wistar Junr.1

P. S. In compliance with the wish of the writer I have cut off his signature but I believe him intitled to full credit.

RC (DLC). Docketed by JM. Enclosure not found.

1Caspar Wistar, Jr. (1761–1818), professor of anatomy at the University of Pennsylvania, was a long-standing friend and correspondent of JM’s. A leading member of the American Philosophical Society, he served as its president from 1815.

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