James Madison Papers

From James Madison to Charles Johnston, 16 June 1827

To Charles Johnston

Montpr. June 16. 27

Dr Sir.

I recd. in due time your favor of May 21. accompanied by a copy of the Volume containing the well-written narrative of your Capture by the Indians, with sketches of their Character & manners. I have not however till within a few days been able to give it the reading I wished.

The narrative would be interesting were it merely a tale of fiction. But stamped as it is with an authenticity so well vouched, it forms an acceptable material for a picture of a people rapidly disappearing from their original Theatre, or losing the peculiar features, resulting from the condition of human Society to which they belonged.

I thank you Sir for the handsome Copy of the work which I owe to your politeness, and shall apply for that subscribed for to the source you point out, where payment I presume is authorised.

Draft (DLC). Docketed by JM: “June 16. 1827.”

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