To James Madison from John H. I. and Eliza C. M. Browere, 20 May 1826
From John H. I. and Eliza C. M. Browere
NewYork 20 May 1826
Sincerely Esteemed Sir—and Madam,
Yours’ was duly received1 but at the very moment when our infant daughter was at the point of death, per the Whooping cough; for six weeks we had very little hopes of her recovery, but he in whose hands are the issues of life and death, hath redeemed her from the jaws of the destroyer. She lives & we are thankful. Long before her birth Mrs Browere declared to herself if the infant lived she should be named after the Amiable spouse of Expresident James Madison—this declaration of determination I knew not till I informed you.
Uncertain of the real Signature of Mrs. Madison, we have awaited her name in full—some here saying it was Dorothea, Dorothy, Dolly, Dolle &c. Seeing Mrs. Browere, has refrained from giving a name—you will much oblige, by transmitting it in full and oblige, yours most cordially in friendship
John H. I. And Eliza. C. M. Browere
PS. I hope [(]God willing) to have the pleasure of visiting the South during the month of August next, and would rejoice in once more paying my devoirs to two of the most amiable and deserving of their Species.
Mrs Browere begs me to tender her grateful acknowledgments of good will & reciprocity of friendship. Truly yours
John H. I. Browere
PS. It being my intention to take my departure for Panama, South America, in October next, The Busts of all the expresidents, and of our present President, Gov. Clinton, Hon. Henry Clay & La[fa]yette will be presented by me to the Governments of South America as the greatest gifts we can present. Peace rest with you.
RC (DLC). Docketed by JM.