To James Madison from Peter S. Du Ponceau, 4 January 1826
From Peter S. Du Ponceau
Philada. 4 Jany 1826
Dear Sir
General Lafayette is very anxious to possess a Work which he thus describes:
“Mr. Madison’s Report on the federal Constitution, a Work in which his opinion of federal & state rights is clearly expressed.” I presume he means your Report of the Year 1798.1
I have enquired of all our Booksellers for this work & have not been able to find it in this City. I would, & the General also would take it as a great favor, if you could inform me whether it is yet in print, & where a Copy can be obtained. It is my misfortune not to be possessed of it, therefore I do not know where it was printed. I have the honor to be With the highest veneration & respect Sir Your most obedt humble servt
Peter S. Du Ponceau
Will you be So good as to present my best respects to Mrs Madison.
RC (DLC). Docketed by JM.
1. For JM’s Report of 1800, see , 17:307–50. It was first published as Proceedings of the Virginia Assembly, on the Answers of Sundry States (Philadelphia, 1800; 38960).