To James Madison from Alexander J. Dallas, 6 August 1815
From Alexander J. Dallas
6 Aug. 1815.
Dr. Sir.
The inclosed paper gives, it is alledged, the sequel of the battle of the 18: of June, between Bonaparte and the Allies.1 The report, in the extent stated, is doubted here; but I think it probable, that Bonaparte’s repulse will produce something like a test of his popularity at Paris.
I have written to Mr. Crawford, but no answer has been recieved. It may be, that he is on his way to visit you. I am, Dr. Sir most respectfully & faithfully Yrs.
A. J. Dallas
RC (CSmH).
1. Dallas may have enclosed a copy of the New York Columbian or New York Commercial Advertiser of 5 Aug. 1815. Both papers carried a report that after the Battle of Waterloo, Napoleon had assumed a disguise and fled to Paris, where the legislature refused his request for troops and funds, demanded his abdication, imprisoned him when he refused, and gave him a day to reconsider his decision. On the following day, 22 June 1815, he “did … ABSOLUTELY AND UNCONDITIONALLY ABDICATE.”