To James Madison from William Gray, 30 August 1815
From William Gray
Boston Augt. 30th. 1815
Sir
Will you permit me to presume you may think proper, to appoint a Commissioner, to meet the one appointed by the British Government, to assertain the boundary line, on the eastern part of the U. States.
I have taken the liberty, Sir, to name, The Honble. John Holmes of Alford, in the Destrict of Maine, as possessing talents, and of application, equal to any one in this Section of the U.S. either of Commissioner, or Agent, he is known by you, Sir, If you should honour him with the appointment of either of those offices I hope & believe he will discharge the duties to your approbation.1 I have the honor to be, Sir, with great respect yr Most Obt. Hbl Sert
Wm Gray
RC (DLC). Docketed by JM.
1. JM nominated Holmes as commissioner under the fourth article of the Treaty of Ghent on 15 Jan. 1816, and the Senate confirmed the appointment the following day ( , 3:23–24).