Title: To James Madison from John Taylor, 4 March 1799
From: Taylor, John
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Caroline March 4. 1799.
Yesterday I received a letter from the southward of this state, written by a gentleman upon whom I can rely, containing the following sentence. “Mr: Henry has certainly declared for the next Assembly, in obedience to the call from General Washington, who has called on him to step forward and save his country—this is laughable; after the abuse formerly lavished upon that character, they now look up to as the saviour of his country—I hope to see you in the next assembly, and pray exert your influence to prevail on Mr: Madison, to come forward—now is the time when all the friends to our free government should exert themselves.”
Shall I write to my correspondent, that all your friends are in a state of grief and dejection, from a despair of prevailing with you to come forward, and save them and yourself; or will any considerations overset a resolution, so baleful to your country?
Fathom Mr: Henry’s motives, and consider your personal situation. When I recollect his conduct respecting Mr: Jefferson at Stantown—that he has openly declared that Mr: Marshall, the inveterate enemy of Mr: Jefferson, is the second man in the union he would vote for, and written it into the district to aid his election—and that he is now espousing measures he so lamentably deprecated and foretold in the convention; his apostacy is capable of a solution, only by considering it as the issue of a personal enmity to Mr: Jefferson and yourself, to gratify which he has sacrificed his principles to a party, determined on your destruction. I pray that this conjecture may be erroneous, but so many instances of depravity are daily occuring, that my suspicions are pushed to an extream, perhaps uncharitable.
Consider the crisis at which he leaves his retreat—the exact moment proper for an effort to manufacture the opinion of Virginia, with an Eye to the election of president.
What other motive can he have, but a desire to gratify hatred or ambition, for joining a party, who have carried a constitution, which he pronounced bad, even under the construction of its friends, beyond the worst construction of its enemies, and of himself its greatest enemy?
I believe you are co-extensively involved in the danger with Mr: Jefferson, but if it be otherwise, and you can discern a conspiracy against your friend, will you not step forward and save him?
Consider that Virginia is the hope of republicans throughout the union, and that if Mr: Henry prevails in removing her resistance to monarchical measures, the whole body will be dispirited, and fall a sudden & easy prey to the enemies of liberty—if you will not save yourself or your friend—yet save your country.
The public sentiment of Virginia is at a crisis—at the next assembly it will take a permanent form, which will fix the fate of America. There will be no member present capable of counterpoising Mr: Henry, unless you will come; and if you do, his defeat at this crisis will certainly happen, and will suddenly invigorate the efforts of republicanism throughout the union, at an all important juncture. Perhaps even some late movements of Mr: Adams may be referable in a degree to the conduct of Virginia, if so, how vastly momentous must it be to drive with our whole force, the wedge, which will unite our friends, and divide our foes? Will you favor me with a short answer to this letter. Farewell. Your friend
John Taylor Hazlewood—Mar: 4. 1799


Title: From James Madison to John Taylor, ca. 1 April 1799
From: Madison, James
To: Taylor, John

Letter not found. Ca. 1 April 1799. Mentioned in John Taylor to Creed Taylor, 10 Apr. 1799 (ViU: Creed Taylor Papers). JM agrees to be a candidate for the Virginia General Assembly. It may have been in this letter that JM requested Taylor to ask Edmund Pendleton to return the letters JM wrote him from Congress (see John Taylor to JM, 4 Mar. 1799, and n. 1; and Edmund Pendleton to JM, 12 May 1799).


Title: To James Madison from Henry Bell, 9 April 1799
From: Bell, Henry
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
9th April 1799.
I am informd that the Governor and Council are about to appoint some person as Superintendant of the State Arsenals, if so I shall offer as a Candidate—and as Ive not the pleasure of being acquainted wh. the Governor and but [few] of the Council—must be dependant on my friends for Letters of recommendation: so that if you think me worthy of the appointment will thank you for a line on the Occasion. And shoud I be so fortunate as to get the appointment I flatter myself I shall execute the duty wh. Honor to myself And Satisfaction to those [to whom] I shall be responsible. Your answer will greatly oblige Yrs. Sincerely &c.
Henry Bell


Title: From James Madison to James Wood, 12 April 1799
From: Madison, James
To: Wood, James

Sir
Orange April 12. 1799
Capt: Henry Bell of this neighbourhood wishing his pretensions to be taken into view by the Executive in filling the office of Superintendant of the State Arsenals I take the liberty of stating that he enjoys the reputation of having served meritoriously in the war of our Revolution, that he is esteemed a man of strict integrity & honor, and that he may be confided in for a faithful discharge of the trust if it should be conferred on him. I have the honor to be Sir very respectfully Your Most Obedt. humble servt.
Js. Madison Jr


Title: To James Madison from French Strother, 22 April 1799
From: Strother, French
To: Madison, James

My Dr. Sir
Apl. 22d. 1799
I shall not be able to see you before the Election, or then, and now Communicate to you what has been said among the people with intention to prejudice them against you in you[r] Election, & with some has had its effect what they have report[ed] is, that you wou’d not declare your self a Candidate, but that it was done by the people, & that you had said you wou’d not set on the bench on the day [of] Election with some other little things to teach to whome it was said, to think from a pride & supe[ri]ority you held over them from havg so long fild the highest offices in the Union. The last person that mentioned it to me was Mr. Jas. ⟨Barkham?⟩ of your County who is very Much your friend. I wish you to be the first on the Bench, wch. will destroy the Effect, it may have had, & Expose the reporter. I am Sincerely Yr mo. Obt servt.
French Strother
P.S. I am happy to tel you that Mr Nicholas’s is safe beyond a dout I do not beleave Blackwell [will] get more than a Hundred Votes if that in this County he tels me him self that he shall get a considerable majority in Stafford & it [is] doutfull wch. will get it in Fauquier.
FS


Title: To James Madison from Edmund Pendleton, 12 May 1799
From: Pendleton, Edmund
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Edmundsbury May 12th 1799.
Mr. Taylor informed me that you wished to have sent you the several Letters I was favored with whilst you was at Congress, which are accordingly furnished by him. I know I preserved them all, but am not sure I have collected the whole: should I find more, they shall be added. I congratulate my Countrey on your return to our state Counsels in this important crisis. Present my most Affecte. respects to your good Parents, yr. Mrs. Madison & all the family. I am Dear Sir, Yr. very Affe. Friend
Edmd Pendleton


Title: To James Madison from John G. Jackson, 14 May 1799
From: Jackson, John G.
To: Madison, James

Mr. Madison,
Harrison County Clarksburg 14th. May 1799
I have taken the liberty to inclose a Letter to Miss Polly Paine—your attention to it will confer a singular honor on me. I am happy to hear that you have suffered yourself to be elected a representative in the State Legislature for Orange County. Republicanism is gaining ground very fast in this District. My Father is elected to Congress in the room of Mr Macher by a Majority of 204 Votes; in this County and in Hampshire where we were divided the republican Candidates for the assembly were elected by a Majority of two to one. It is with equal regret I have heard of the Election of Marshal, Lee, Powell & Page, however I believe that the time is not far distant when the Freemen of America will see through the flimsy veil of modern Federalism & spurn the Enemies of their Liberties. I know that truth is on our side and that truth will be omnipotent. Present my compliments to Mr Barber I hope he is reelected and that I shall again have the Pleasure of seeing him in Richmond, and except them yourself. I am with sentiments of respect your obt St.
John G Jackson


Title: To James Madison from Charles Pinckney, 16 May 1799
From: Pinckney, Charles
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
South Carolina May 16: 1799
I have no doubt you have recieved my communications at large from Mr Nicholas. I prefered speaking to him & Mr Venable to writing, as many of my letters have been intercepted. I was glad to find, whether in consequence of those or not, that you have again appeared in the State Legislature. Be assured I cannot think you were ever right to leave public life—in times like the present I can never suppose any man is justified in doing so, much less one whose talents, knowledge & Experience of public Business so well qualify him for actively interfering in it.
As I believe you are well acquainted with my handwriting—to prevent accidents, I shall in future omit my signature when I write you. This I shall do at large whenever I have a more certain opportunity than the present—my particular object at present is to impress upon yourself & Mr. Giles & Mr Brent & the Gentlemen of influence in yr State Legislature the necessity of their altering at their next session the mode of electing Electors of a President of the United States & following our Example in this state by Vesting in the Legislature the right of electing, by joint Ballott the Electors, either out of their own Body or the People att [sic] Large—this is essential to the Success of such Elections as will be pushed & as are necessary to our peace & public happiness should be carried, & you must do it at your next session or it will be too late.
I shall endeavour to impress the necessity of a similar step on such of our Friends in North Carolina & Georgia as I am acquainted with & I wish you & our friends in Virginia would do the same on all whom you believe have influence in North Carolina Kentucky & in Tenesee. I hope that neither you or any of them will hesitate on taking this Step as I know on it every thing depends.
I am to request you will Believe me with regard & affection Yours Truly
Charles Pinckney
I think it of so much consequence to have the Elections of Electors in North Carolina in their state Legislature by joint Ballott tha⟨t⟩ whenever I can discover where Mr Bloodworth & General Macdowell reside I shall write them on the subject—in the interim I will thank you, if you have an opportunity to write them also & have it done at their next session. I beg again to impress on you the necessity of this, as it was by the loss of two Votes ⟨in⟩ your State & North Carolina the last Election was lost.


Title: To James Madison from John Barnes, 18 May 1799
From: Barnes, John
To: Madison, James

Sir
Philadelphia 18 May 1799
The good Genl. Moylan on presenting your Order—paid me Instantly—$113.33 as heretofore for One Yrs. rent. Mr Lewis I presume—gives himself no thought about your demand—unless I should call—to remind him—of his Neglect, or to form some Oth⟨er⟩ triffling excuse to protract the pay⟨m⟩t. of it. ⟨i wou⟩ld wait on him again with pleasure—If I fo⟨res⟩aw a probability of his not making—his Unnecessa⟨ry e⟩xcuses which if repeated a 3d time—I might in return—for his politeness—or rather the want of it—get warm—and retort. For these reasons I wish to be excused. Unless—you are pleased—to draw on him for a Specified sum—in my favr. a[t] 10–15 or 20 days to give him time to refresh his Memory—will leave him without excuse and I will be sure sir, to do the Needfull. I am most Respectfully—your Obedt. H servt.
John Barnes

a/c

order ⟨on⟩ S Moylan

113.33

forme⟨rly due?⟩
44.10

postag[e]
  22
 44.32

subject ⟨to yo⟩ur Order

$69.01.

PS. Can you inform me—who—are the late Genl. Weedons Executrs. & w[h]ere they live? I want much to write—to One of them.


Title: Fine for Ignoring Jury Summons, 30 May 1799 (Abstract)
From: Orange County Court
To: Madison, James

30 May 1799. JM and two others are fined eight dollars each “for not attending as Jurymen when summond.”


Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 13 July 1799
From: Monroe, James
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Albemarle July 13. 1799.
Have you ever recd. yr. wine from Mr. Yard. Presuming you have not, I intimated in a letter by Dr. Bache to Mr. Yd., requesting mine to be forwarded to the care of Geo. Jeffn. Richmond, that if yrs. had not already been, I doubted not it wod. be agreeable to you it shod. be by the same route. I hope we shall receive it, since to me it will be a most acceptable accomodation having had none of any kind for a long time; and if it is really of the quality we are taught to expect, it will also be of importance to you. If you have not written for it (as you probably did by Dr. Bache as I desired him to mention the subject to you) had you not better yet do it?
The period approaches when the assumpsit in favor of Mr. Brooke becomes due, being sometime this fall. I stand ingaged in a judgmt. on a forthcoming bond for £600. with interest from July last till paid; the judgmt. being entered with delay of exn. for the term (as well as I recollect of 18. months, tho I am not certain it was entered so late as July[)]. Colo. Mercer had promised £75. as likewise had you. This with a like sum from me & two or three other friends, it was supposed at Fredbg where the idea of aiding him thus occurred, wod. relieve him. But when I went to Richmd. I found it wod. take a much greater sum to effect that object. In consequence we resolved not to abandon it, tho’ the burden was heavier than we expected. Colo. Minor & Larkin Smith took two other debts on themselves of less amt., and this fell to my lot, aided by the ingagmt. of Colo. W. Nicholas for £100., by the expectation you and Colo. Mercer wod. bear the additional charge each of £25. making £100 also, and by the hope that Fs. Walker & John Nicholas of Stafford wod. each take on himself a like sum. Thus the matter has since stood and the time approaches when I am to be subje[c]t to an exn. wh. admits of no delay. There is of course no obligation of any kind on you or Colo. Mercer to pay more than the 1st. mentioned sum nor shod. I propose it (especially under existing circumstances) if I did not think you wod. do it with pleasure. For in fact bound as I am (altho I am persuaded any of the parties who were in contemplation at the time, had they been in the situation I was a witness of his distress wod. have done the same) it seems rather to be soliciting aid to myself than to a common friend. You will observe if Mr. J. N. & Mr. W. pay the sums allotted them, it will leave me the equal sum of £100. and interest on the whole sum since the judgmt.—W. Nicholas may probably mention it to them as I think he will, but for the reason suggested I shall not.
Cannot you come up & stay a day or two with us. Yr. skill in architecture & farming wod. be of great use to me at present. I am much ingaged in both & take more interest, especially in the latter, tho’ under discouraging circumstances, than at any former time. We promise to do every thing in our power to make a like visit to Mrs. Madison agreeable, to whom we beg our best regards, as we also do to the old gentn. & Lady. Sincerely I am yr. friend & servant
Jas. Monroe


Title: From James Madison to James Monroe, 20 July 1799
From: Madison, James
To: Monroe, James

Dear Sir
July 20. 99
Your favor of  came safe by the last Mail. I had not forgotten my accession to your assumpsit, tho’ the discharge of it will fall on me at a moment peculiarly mal apropos, and is not I fear alleviated by a hope that the sacrifice will answer the benevolent purpose which led to it. I shall be glad to know the precise time at which the payment will be called for, that I may be prepared for it. If the supplemental levy can not be thrown on some new benefactors, I shall not shrink from my share of it.
I have not yet written to Mr. Y. on the subject of the wine, but shall follow your hint the next mail. You ought to have apprized him of the necessity of having it put up in a form that will secure it agst. every species of casualty by land as well as by water which it will encounter on its way. Without this precaution we may receive it adulterated if in casks, or receive broken bottles only, if sent in that form. It will be materially better for mine to come to Fredg. to the care of Mr. Stone, than to go with yours to Richmd. of which I shall give Mr. Y. notice. I wish you to do the same, if you shd. write again on the subject.
It would give me the sincerest pleasure to ride up & see you, & I had almost determined to have allotted this week for the purpose; but some particular jobbs about the finishg of my building made my presence indispensable: and there are others to succeed which make it uncertain when I shall be able to go from home. In the mean time, it is probable Mrs. M. will accompany her Sister from Berkely on a visit to Col. Coles, & will not fail to pay her respects to Mrs. Monroe either in going or returning. She is at present with her Sister in Hanover, but will return to day or tomorrow. Offer my best respects to Mrs. Monroe. Yrs. sincerely
Js. Madison Jr.


Title: To James Madison from Alexander Stuart, 20 July 1799
From: Stuart, Alexander
To: Madison, James

Sir
Lynch[bur]g july 20th. 1799
Having determined to become a candidate for a seat in the Council the ensuing Assembly; I trust you will excuse the liberty I take (who have not the pleasure of personal acquaintance) in thus making known my intentions. Should I be so fortunate as to meet with your patronage on this occasion, flowing from motives well known to your Country it would be extremely flattering to me independent of its influence on the event. I am with sentiments of respect & Esteem your very Hble Svt.
Alexr Stuart


Title: To James Madison from William W. Hening, 29 July 1799
From: Hening, William W.
To: Madison, James

Sir,
Albemarle 29th. July 1799
The inclosed proceedings upon the claim of Doctr. Inglis before the board of Commissioners under the 6th. article of the treaty of amity &c. between Great Britain & the United States, exhibit the causes of dissension between the commissioners of the two nations. It is made public “with a view to general information,” and will, I doubt not, afford you much satisfaction in the perusal, especially when it is perceived that the commissioners on the part of the United States have not yielded to the very extraordinary interpretation sought to be applied to the treaty of 1794 by the commissioners of his Britanic Majesty. I am respectfully yrs.
Wm. W: Hening


Title: From James Madison to Samuel Stanhope Smith, 25 August 1799
From: Madison, James
To: Smith, Samuel Stanhope

Letter not found. 25 August 1799. Acknowledged in Smith to JM, 3 Sept. and 28 Nov. 1799. Inquires on behalf of a friend about the expenses of a Princeton education.


Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 28 August 1799
From: Madison, James
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Letter not found. 28 August 1799. Listed in JM’s record of letters written to Jefferson (DLC: Rives Collection, Madison Papers) as well as Jefferson’s Epistolary Record (DLC: Jefferson Papers).


Title: To James Madison from Samuel Stanhope Smith, 3 September 1799
From: Smith, Samuel Stanhope
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir,
Septr. 3d. ’99
In answer to your favour of the 25th Aug: permit me to address to you a copy of a circular letter which I have prepared to answer such inquiries as you have been good enough to make in the name of your friend. The young gentlemen from the Southward are chiefly culpable in the expences of clothing & horses.
I am happy to hear of your health—but should be more pleased if the circumstances of our country were such as to induce you to return into public life. I am Dr Sir, Yr. Mo. obdt. & hble. servt.
Saml S Smith.


Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 20 September 1799
From: Monroe, James
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Albemarle Sepr. 20. 1799.
Mr. Alexr. Stuart brother of Archd. has desired me to make known to you his pretentions to a seat in our council with a view to yr. friendly aid in obtaining it. It is impossible to refuse saying of him what I think, especially as my acquaintance with him is of ten years, commencing with his study of the law & continuing since. He is a sensible young man, sound in morality & political principles, & therefore deserving confidence. You will of course compare his pretentions with those of other candidates & do justice to the publick by selecting the most deserving. Sincerely I am yr. friend & servt.
Jas. Monroe


Title: Affidavit on Kentucky Lands, [25 September] 1799
From: Madison, James
To:

[25 September 1799]
The separate answer of James Madison to the bill of complaint exhibited against him and Nelly Madison in the court of quarter Session for Jefferson county in the state Kentucky by William Croghan Complnt. This defendant saving every benefit of excepting to the manifold errors and imperfections in the complainants bill contained for answer thereto sayeth—That he was jointly interested with the said Ambrose Madison deceased named in the bill, in the land therein said to be sold by him to the complainant, and that the said Ambrose Madison had full authority from this complainant to sell the same—but this defendant was so little in the habit of meddling with their joint landed concerns in the state Kentucky, that he knows nothing certainly or precisely of the sale to the complainant mentioned in the bill—nor does he recollect any thing certainly or precisely as to the conveyance for the said land in conjunction with the said Ambrose Madison as charged in the bill, but this defendant cannot refrain from remarking that if such conveyance was made it must be entirely useless to execute another deed, since his whole interest in the land must have passed by the first and of course there could be nothing remaining in him to pass by the second—for it is not correct, as the bill suggests, that the deed became void & null by not having been recorded in due time, but the same would be valid & effectual between the parties to the deed. And this defendant believes that if the said deed should be recorded after the time limited by the law, that it would as to all transactions subsequent to such recording be as available as if recorded within the time appointed by law. This defendant however would have no objection to executing a deed to pass his interest in the said land if the sale can be sufficiently proved to convince him that it was made, and if the deed said to have been executed by this def[endan]t and the said Ambrose Madison could be shewn to him or to John Lee or Hubbard Taylor Esqrs. of the State of Kentucky it would be entirely satisfactory to him to convince him thereof—but this ought to be at the cost of the Complainant because it was his own neglect that he did not have his deed recorded. He therefore prays to be hence dismissed with his costs unjustly incured in defending this suit.
James Madison
Virginia Orange County &c.
The above named defendt. James Madison, this day made Oath upon the Holy Evangelist, before me John Scott a Justice of the Peace for the sd. County, to the Truth of the above Answer. Given under my Hand & Seal this 25th. day of September 1799.
John Scott


Title: To James Madison from John Chew, 20 October 1799
From: Chew, John
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Montreal 20th Octr. 1799
I wrote to You about this time last Year, informing You of my fathers death, and requesting You to give me every information in your power respecting some lands to which he had a Claim to, in Virginia. Such a length of time has now elapsed without my hearing from You that I am Sometimes in doubt, whether the letter has ever gone to hand, it was Sent from this by a Son of Mr Watts, and directed to his care—as it appears by some late letters from Mr Watts to Sir John Johnson that nothing has as yet been done in regard to the sale of the Land, I must entreat of you, on the rect. of this letter, to give me as soon as You Conveniently can every particular you may think worth Communicating relating to the property in question, and let me know, whether You think my presence would tend to expedite any measures that might be adopted for the Sale thereof. My Mother joins in presenting best respects—& I remain Dear Sir Yours Very Sincerely
John Chew


Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 2 November 1799
From: Madison, James
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir
Novr. 2. 1799
The Bearer Mr. Polk is a Portrait Painter & a kinsman of Mr. Peale of Philada. He visits Monticello with a wish to be favored with a few hours of your sitting for his pencil. Having no acquaintance with you he asks the aid of a line towards obtaining one, and this will be presented to you for the purpose. With perfect sincerity I am yours
Js. Madison Jr


Title: To James Madison from John Francis Mercer, 14 November 1799
From: Mercer, John Francis
To: Madison, James

My dear Sir
West River, 14th. Nov. 1799.
It is unnecessary for me to suggest the pain I feel that a renewal of a correspondence which always afforded me the highest satisfaction shoud now arise from so great a delinquency on my part. I did hope that you woud not have had occasion to remind me of the claim your friendship gave rise to, but my own imprudencies & those of a very near Relative, have in spite of all my exertions kept me in a state bordering on bankruptcy for the best part of my life.
An Accession of property chiefly of a nature not easily convertible into Money has not remov’d my embarrassments, & I have been oblig’d to make arrangements for the renting out of the greatest part of my Lands in Virginia & the sale of a proportion of the personal property on them. The renting of the Lands I have accomplish’d to my satisfaction—but to place me in that state of ease & independance, which it woud be unpardonable in me longer to forego, when ample means are in my power, I must notwithstanding the repugnance you will suppose, sell a parcel of human beings who have been born & bred in the family & on the soil which they will leave with the greatest reluctance. I have ad[v]ertis’d them & other property for vendue on the 10th of December, & soon after that period, (say by the 20th) I shall make you a remittance to Richmond & hope that may be made to answer Your engagements. If I do not remit the whole you may rely that I will remit all that circumstances will then permit—& that the Ballance shall not remain long unpaid. I make this reserve as I sell for half Cash, half notes at 6 Months. You will allow me to arrange the matter of Interest & you will not be dissatisfied with the settlement.
Next to the pleasure of seeing you, that of hearing from you will at all times greatly interest me, & when I make a tender of my respects to your lady she will permit me to add those of Mrs Mercer, altho’ we are both unknown to her, yet we sincerely wish her happiness And we shall feel the greatest satisfaction in seeing you both at our Mansion. Truly My dear Sir I am your sincere friend & Servt.
John F. Mercer


Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 22 November 1799
From: Monroe, James
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Albemarle Novr. 22. 1799.
I was yesterday at Monticello when Mr. Jefferson informed me he proposed sitting out on the next (this) morning on a visit to you, to remain a day & return. Considering yr. present publick engagment, the business before the legislature & the part you will necessarily take in it, with his publick station, I was immediately impressed with an idea the trip had better be declined & so observed. He said he had omitted writing you lately as he intended to visit you. I told him it wod. certainly compromit you both; as it wod. immediately appear throughout the continent. Under this consideration he declined the trip, in the persuasion an interview might be had, by yr. making me a visit, at my new house, to wh. I move tomorrow. There wod. be nothing extry. in yr. coming up to assist me in arrangments there, bringing Mrs. Madison with you, wh. I earnestly wish you to do next week. We will repay the debt hereafter with interest. Our house is unfinished in all respects, the yard in confusion, &ca, but you shall have a warm chamber & be made as comfortable as we can make you. Perhaps I have done wrong in interfering, and may have avoided one evil by prefering a worse one. This often happens where the intention is known to be good. But yet the present does not appear to me to be an example of that kind. I shod. have called on you in my return from Fredbg had I not been taken to Caroline by the sickness of my sisters family & passed thence thro’ Louisa; I am forc’d down again in abt. ten days when I shall see you if I do not sooner. I enclose you the pamphlet I promised wh. contains some just views of the subject on wh. it treats. I enclose also a letter recd. sometime since from F. Brooke on a subject in wh. he is interested. There wod. be cause for regret if Mr. Stuart from Staunton & Mr. Brooke shod. be opposed, in the event contemplated, as they are very deserving men, well qualified for the place in question. With Mrs. M.’s & my best respects to Mrs. Madison believe me yr. friend & servant
Jas. Monroe


Title: To James Madison from Alexander Pope Price, 25 November 1799
From: Price, Alexander Pope
To: Madison, James

Sir
Orange Court House 25th Nov. ’99
With much diffidence I take the liberty of making you acquainted with my wish to serve the ensuing house of Delegates in the capacity of Clerk. My total unacquaintance with you would have prevented this direct communication, but the absence of Mr Geo. C Taylor who promised to mention this subject to you, and the near approach of the session of the assembly makes it necessary. I shall be glad if you will give yourself the trouble of enquiring into my character, and qualifications to discharge the duties of the office I solicit, (and perhaps my political opinions may be necessary to be known) and if on this enquirey you shall find me deserving your Confidence, I hope to have the honor of your patronage, I should here say something respecting my political opinions, but being Confident that they Coincide with those of a majority of the house, I avoid the subject, fearful that it might appear that I wished a reward for thinking right. I have the honor to be Sir Yr hume srvt
Alexr Pope Price


Title: To James Madison from John Dawson, 28 November 1799
From: Dawson, John
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir!
New Brunswick. Novem: 28. 1799.
I came to this place on Tuesday & shall go on to Philadelphia on tomorrow, from whence I shall write to you fully.
The choice of the President seems to engage the attention of every person already—it is difficult to say how the vote of this state & of New York will be—the republicans are sanguine in both, & I think not without reason—district elections woud secure a majority, & a general election by the people, or by the legislatures may give the whole—in Pennyslvania [sic], I conclude that the choice will certainly be make [sic] by a general ticket, as there is a majority of four republicans in the lower house, who will oppose the repeal of the present law, & the Governor elect is pledged not to approve one directing the choice to be made by the legislature, which he thinks unconstitutional—in the Eastern states a change has certainly taken place, tho I doubt whether it will be productive of any good, Especially if an Eastern man is brought forward, which I take for granted—in Connecticut three of the most violent Democrats on the continent, & men of the best talents in the state, have been elected to the legislature by large majorities, altho opposed by persons lately irresistible.
In my judgement every thing depends on Virginia & N. Carolina, & therefore every exertion, which prudence will warrant, ought to be made—an election by the legislatures woud, I presume secure every vote—but how is this to be brought about, & when made? Whatever law is passd ought to authorise the Executive, which is to be purg’d this session, to appoint on the day, in case of the non attendance of the members, for a single vote may be every thing, & I well know that if they find that they cannot carry their man, they will endeavour to prevent an Election. I throw out these hints for your better judgement, & calculate on hearing from you. Yrs. with much Esteem
J Dawson.


Title: To James Madison from Samuel Stanhope Smith, 28 November 1799
From: Smith, Samuel Stanhope
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir,
Princeton Novr. 28th. 1799
In answer to your letter of the 25th. Aug: I immediately wrote to you; but I have reason to apprehend, from the fate of one or two other letters written about the same time, that it was lost by a robbery of the mail between Baltimore & Fredericksburg. I have just been informed of the loss of the others to which I refer; & lest that addressed to you should have been among them, permit me to repeat, for the satisfaction of your friend, that entrance into the College is

Dolls. Cents.

    4.67

—Tuition & room rent. &C. each session 18.67—ie.
37.34
pr. Ann

—Board with the Steward pr. week 2⅓ do. pr. week besides the sessions there are vacations of six & four weeks, when board is at 3 dolls. per week in the town.
98.—
two sessions

—Washing at 1⅓ doll. pr. Mo.
14.—
pr. Ann

—Wood at 4.67 Ds. pr. cord—say 4 cords
18.68
 pr. Ann.

—Candles, say 20 lb. at 16½ cents
    3.33
pr. Ann

171.35

—Wages of se⟨rv⟩ants for waiting—about
    5—

⟨176⟩.35

Some of these prices are changed a few cents from the printed list I formerly sent you, as you will see, if you have received it. Besides these, each student, provides his own bed, or mattrass, & furniture for his chamber as he pleases, which he takes with him, or disposes of at his departure. The voluntary, however, are generally made considerably more than the necessary expences, particularly by the southern students for dress, & horses. This is an evil that rests upon parents alone to limit, as no rules of the college put it effectually in my power. I am, Dr Sir, Very respectfully, yr. Mo. obdt. hble. servt.
Saml S Smith


Title: Memorandum from Edmund Randolph, [ca. December] 1799
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Madison, James

Editorial Note
These “hasty notes” were most probably replies to queries (not found) that JM had posed to Edmund Randolph sometime during the early days of the Virginia General Assembly session in 1799. In his research for that part of the Report of 1800 that dealt with the common law, JM no doubt surveyed the handful of important court decisions that supported the doctrine that the English common law was included in the federal law system. Thus, JM would have sought information about Henfield’s case (1793), in which Randolph, as attorney general of the United States, had given a formal opinion. Gideon Henfield was an American citizen who enlisted on a French privateer that engaged in hostilities against Great Britain in defiance of the American policy of neutrality proclaimed by President Washington. In the absence of a statute criminalizing Henfield’s behavior, Randolph had supported his prosecution on the grounds that “the treaty created the offence.” According to Randolph’s opinion here, the common law had had no bearing on the criminality of the act, it had merely “annexed the mode of prosecution and penalty.” The case was not, therefore, strictly analogous to the Isaac Williams case (1799), in which Williams, who had been commissioned as a French officer, was convicted for violating the Jay treaty when his argument that he was a naturalized citizen of France was thrown out by the judge on the basis of the common-law doctrine of perpetual allegiance (see Edmund Randolph’s Notes on the Common Law, ca. Sept. 1799, Editorial Note).
In the absence of other documentation, it is difficult to say what reasons JM might have had for his queries to Randolph. He might have intended to consider each of the decisions that supported the common-law doctrine and include them in his report on a case-by-case basis, examining and refuting each one. Or he might simply have wanted enough information to challenge any Federalist who tried to enlist the prestige of Edmund Randolph in the common-law cause by using Henfield’s case as a precedent.

(Secondary sources used for this note: Goebel, History of the Supreme Court, 1:624–27; Malone, Jefferson and His TimeDumas Malone, Jefferson and His Time
        (6 vols.; Boston, 1948–81)., 3:119–21; Reardon, Edmund Randolph, pp. 231–32.)

E. R. to J. M.
[ca. December 1799]
1. On such a question, the opinion of no individual is of weight.
2. On no occasion would it be quoted by those, who will quote it, but to shew, that at a moment, when party had not taken deep root, and consequences to one or the other side were not foreseen, the opinion was sincere.
3. Genet demanded Henfields liberation. It was enough to say to a foreign minister, that the laws (no matter whether state or fœderal) justified his trial.
4. It is probable therefore, that the general question, now under discussion, never came into my consideration, being unnecessary. I think, that it was certain; but at this distance of time, I can rely on no recollection of what passed in my mind, and must stand upon what the words import.
5. This must have been the idea, if I meant to say, that he was triable at common law in the fœderal courts: that the treaties, by stipulating for peace with the U. S, in substance prohibited the citizens of the U. S. from engaging in war against the nations, with whom the treaties subsisted: that treaties being the supreme law, and the judicial act (p. 74.) having provided, that the laws of the States should be the rule of decision, where they should apply, the laws of Pennsylvania, within whose boundaries the offence was committed, comprehending the common law, would aid the treaty: which had specified no penalty for Henfield’s crime, by one of its general principles; namely, that when a statute forbids a thing to be done, without annexing a penalty, the common law makes it indictable and punishable, as a misdemeanor. This, I believe, was the doctrine, which I urged at the trial.
6. This opinion does not bring up the common law, as the law of the U. S; because the treaty created the offence, and the common law only annexed the mode of prosecution and penalty; whereas the common law, as the law of the U. S. would create offences.
7. Suppose the judicial act to be unconstitutional in adopting the common law penalty, and annexing it to the offence by treaty. Could the attorney general advise the President to pronounce that law unconstitutional, when a foreign nation was the litigant party? When Henfield himself was in the ordinary channel of having the question of constitutionality decided by the judiciary?
8. Whether an offence against the U. S. be cognizable in a state-court, I know not. Much may be said on the subject.

9. But after all, the opinion imputed, even if it were fixed on the attorney general, (which it cannot be) was abominably wrong.
Preserve these hasty notes.


Title: From James Madison to James Monroe, [2 December] 1799
From: Madison, James
To: Monroe, James

Dear Sir
Monday Evening [2 December 1799]
Several of your friends here wish us to possess the document of Dr. Edwards procured by Mr. Dawson. Send it by the next post if you please with any observations you wish to make. L. Smith is appointed our Speaker by a majority of 80 odd vs. 50 odd—& Wirt Clerk by one of 90 odd vs 40 odd. Communicate this to Mr. J. & tell him I have recd. his letter by Mr. R. but cannot answer it now—it being ½ after 8 OC & the mail to close at 9 OC. and this being the first moment of my being apprized. Yrs.
J. M Jr
The D. of Y. defeated in Holland & the Russian Corp[s] of 7000 destroyed.


Title: Election of James Monroe, [6 December] 1799
From: Madison, James
To:

[6 December 1799]

   Debate commenced over a motion made by JM on 5 December nominating James Monroe for the office of governor of Virginia. Richard Bland Lee (Fairfax County) proposed postponing the motion until the following Monday, while George Keith Taylor (Prince George County) urged an investigation into the character and “political motives” of Monroe. Taylor claimed that Monroe’s mission to France had been “injurious to his country” and that to elect him as governor would “amount to saying that the [Washington administration] had been wrong in recalling him.” JM spoke next, and according to the newspaper account, “his appearance produced such a general rustling in the House that, for several minutes, we could not hear one word which he said.”

Mr. Madison observed that he should be the last man to put off any investigation of the character of Mr. Monroe, but he really believed that such an exercise was entirely superfluous. The subject had been handled in all kinds of publications that he did not imagine any new light could be discovered by that source. Would not the delay therefore have the appearance as if some cloud were hanging over it? Some impressions of that kind could be made in consequence of the delay. The interval would reduce Mr. Monroe himself to a singular and disturbing dilemma.
Mr. Madison did not agree with the gentleman last up, as to the proposed election of Mr. Monroe being a condemnation of the Executive. It was well known that ambassadors had often been recalled for reasons unconnected with their diplomatic character. Ambassadors had often been remanded without being in the least censured. As to the gentleman in nomination, every fact, every argument, every circumstance, every insinuation had already been brought forward, explained, and sifted. Was he to be debarred from serving his country upon vague suspicions? Mr. Madison spoke highly of his private character as pure, and of his public character as unimpeachable. He was very far from agreeing with the gentleman, that Mr. Monroe’s mission had been injurious to the country, for in the most delicate and important points, it had been successful.


Title: To James Madison from John Dawson, 12 December 1799
From: Dawson, John
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir!
Philadelphia December 12. 1799.
I am favourd with your letter of the 4th. for which I thank you. On yesterday we finishd the business of ceremony with the president & appear at a loss what to take up next—the Senate in their answer take no notice of the mission to France, altho it was modifid according to their wishes, & I am assurd that thirty odd eastern members in our house woud have voted for expunging the clause which relates to that subject, in ours—there is a disagreement among them, but common interest ensures a reconciliation; for several of the faction have declard, that if they cannot get a better they must unite in favour of Mr. A——. If he withdraws Elsworth is their man.
The members from N. Jersey assure me, that on a joint ballot of their legislature, as it now stands, they can carry the Republican ticket & that they will gain ground at the next Election—in New York our friends are very sanguine, & speak with confidence of a decided majority after the election in April—the Manhattan law, under which they have establishd a bank of two million of dollars, with republican directors, which does more business than the other two banks, & has destroy’d their tyranny—and are supplying every house in the city with water, on very moderate terms, has producd much good, & from being very unpopular has become the reverse—the voice of this state is known, but it is difficult to say what the legislature will do—at present there is no law respecting the choice of electors, & it is said that the Senate will not pass one authorising a general ticket; tho I think that they dare not be obstinate against the decided wish of the people, & the practice heretofore. In the two Carolinas is there not much danger, & ought not steps to be taken to meet it? You & our friends in Richmond ought to attend to this. Have you thought of any one as Vice President? C. C. Pinckney, or J. Marshal will be run by the other side—and what say you to old Governor Clinton? He is in pretty good health, & I have good reason to believe that he woud be more acceptable to New York, & New Jersey than any one else—on a former occasion Virginia & N. Carolina were unanimous for him—consult our friends on this point, & if the policy is approvd off [sic], I can make the arrangements here, in New Jersey, & New York.
By this day’s mail we have accounts of the election of our friend Colo Monroe, at which I sincerely rejoice. With much esteem Your friend & Sert
J Dawson.


Title: Estimate of Virginia Government Expenses and Resources, ca. 14 December 1799 (Abstract)
From: Madison, James
To:

Ca. 14 December 1799. Lists the estimated expenses of the state government for the year 30 Sept. 1799 to 1 Oct. 1800, totaling $444,660.00, and the “Resources to meet this estimate,” in the amount of $481,496.96. Followed by the committee’s explanation of several items, which concludes “that the taxes as they now stand, will be sufficient to defray the public exigencies.”


Title: Death of George Washington, [18 December] 1799
From: Madison, James
To:

[18 December 1799]
Mr. Madison addressed the speaker as follows: Death has robbed our country of its most distinguished ornament, and the world of one of its greatest benefactors. George Washington, the Hero of Liberty, the father of his Country, and the friend of man is no more. The General Assembly of his native state were ever the first to render him, living, the honors due to his virtues. They will not be the second, to pay to his memory the tribute of their tears.

   Richmond Examiner, 20 Dec. 1799.

[18 December 1799]

   JM then proposed the following motion.

Resd. unanimously that the members of this House in token of their profound grief for the loss of their illustrious & beloved fellow Citizen George Washington, will each wear a badge of mourning throughout the present Session of the General Assembly.

   Ms (Vi: House of Delegates, Bills). In JM’s hand; written on a small slip of paper. Printed in Richmond Examiner, 20 Dec. 1799, and Richmond Va. Argus, 20 Dec. 1799.

   In the Ms “unanimously” is interlined in an unidentified hand.


Title: Motion on the Virginia Resolutions of 1798, [23 December] 1799
From: Madison, James
To:

[23 December 1799]
Mr. Madison moved, that the committee of the whole should be discharged from further proceedings upon certain answers from several of the states, relative to the communications made by the Virginia legislature at their last session; and that the same should be referred to a special committee of seven.


Title: To James Madison from Thomas Mann Randolph, 28 December 1799
From: Randolph, Thomas Mann
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir,
Charlottesville Dec. 28. 99.
I have just learned here that several letters have been written from this County to the Chief members of the house of Delegates giving information that Wm. Woods the person lately returned Delegate in the place of Wilson Nicolas has never ceased to perform all the functions of a Minister of the Gospel in the Baptist church except that of marrying, the licence for which he resigned immediately before the election under a belief that that was a sufficient renunciation to qualify him for a seat. What the practice of the house may be in cases under that article of the constitution I know not but I think I remember many instances of persons admitted without hesitation in circumstances similar to Mr. Woods and I fear from that recollection that he may be suffered after a scrutiny to take his seat. This would strengthen his interest in the Co. greatly & probably would insure his reelection for many years. He is indebted for great part of his influence to a jealousy which he himself has excited by insinuations in his sermons and by various arts from the freeholders of small property towards those of considerable. He has styled himself the poormans candidate, has endeavored to excite an idea of a difference of interest between the poor and rich (to use the common terms) and has succeeded in making the former take a pride in opposing the latter which would absolutely (I believe sincerly myself) be inflamed into downright hatred by an attempt even to exclude him from the house upon the justest and most constitutional principle. I have seen enough of the temper of the people in his election to make me believe that if excluded he would contrive to excite a fanatical fervor in the County much to be deprecated; towards which there is at present a peculiar proneness here in addition to the general disposition over the Continent; but which cannot be in any way beneficial as it is.
I hope you will excuse my forwardness in addressing you as well as my inaccuracy. Zeal has prompted me to the one—the other haste and the noise of a tavern the morning after a ball occasions. I am Sir with the greatest respect your &c
Th: M. Randolph


Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 29 December 1799
From: Madison, James
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir
Richmond Decr. 29. 1799
My promise to write to you before your leaving Albemarle was defeated by a dysenteric attack which laid me up for about a week, and which left me in a State of debility not yet thoroughly removed. My recovery has been much retarded by the job of preparing a vindication of the Resolutions of last Session agst. the replies of the other States, and the sophistries from other quarters. The Committee made their report a few days ago, which is now in the press and stands the order of the day for thursday next. A sett of Resolutions proposed by Mr. Giles, instructing the Senators to urge the repeal of the unconstl. acts, the disbanding of the army, and a proper arrangement of the Militia, are also in the press and stand the order of the same day for the same Committee. It is supposed that both these papers, the latter perhaps with some modifications, will go through the H. of Delegates. The Senate, owing to inattention & casualties, is so composed as to render the event there not a little uncertain. If an election, to fill the vacancy of Mr. H. Nelson who lately resigned, should send Mr. Andrews in preference to his competitor Mr. Saunders, I am told that the parties will be precisely in equilibrio; excepting only one or two, whom circumstances now & then on particular questions, transfer from the wrong to the right side. It is hoped that this contingent fund of votes, will be applicable to the Vindication. On other important questions, there is much less expectation from it. There is a report here that the Legislature of N. Carolina now in Session, have voted the Resolutions of Virginia under their table. The report is highly improbable, and I do not believe it. But it is impossible to calculate the progress of delusion, especially in a State where it is said to be under systematic management, and where there is so little either of system or exertion opposed to it. We had a narrow escape yesterday from an increase of pay to the members, which would have been particularly unseasonable & injurious both within & without the State. It was rejected on the third reading by a small majority; and was so much a favorite, with the distant members particularly, that I fear it has left them in rather an ill humour.
The late course of foreign events has probably made the same impression every where. If it should not render France less anxious to meet our advances, its good effects will be felt every way. If our Executive & their Envoys be sincere in their pacific objects, it will perhaps supply by their increased anxiety what may be lost on the other side. But there can be little confidence after what has been seen, that the negociation would be influenced by this temper of the Envoys, instead of that which perverted it in the hands of their predecessors. This possibility of failure in the diplomatic experiment, will present the most specious obstacle to an immediate discharge of the army. It would be useful for the Assembly to know how this matter is viewed where you are. Mr. Dawson will be good eno’ to write me on the subject. I intended to have written to him by this mail; but my time has been taken from me till the closing of the mail is approaching. Yrs. affecly.
J M. Jr.


Title: Memorandum from an Unidentified Correspondent, [ca. 2 January] 1800
From:
To: Madison, James

[ca. 2 January 1800]
I admit that the word states is used in the constitution, in all the senses which have been ascribed to it, by the paper which I have seen; that the state-governments neither created nor can abrogate the fœderal compact, and that the people of the states did create, and may abrogate it. But none of these considerations settle the question. The true enquiry is, in what sense the resolution of the last assembly intended to use that term? It seems to me, that nothing could have been more irrelevant to the subject matter, than to announce that the people of the states were parties to the constitution. Every body acknowledged it. To introduce this position therefore, appears to be so wanton, as that an attempt to shelter the assembly under that signification, will be deemed a downright subterfuge. The close reasoning of every other part of the resolutions will countenance this imputation.

But if the word is to be thus understood, what is to prevent the conclusion, that the people alone ought to interfere, in correcting violations of the constitution? I know that in some subsequent pages, which I have not seen, it is intended to insist upon the right of the state governments, to animadvert upon its violations. How then, can it affect the main purpose of the work, if an unity be given to it, by vesting the state governments uniformly with the power of thus animadverting? It deserves to be noticed too, that in sundry passages of the resolutions, the word states certainly includes the state governments; and the expression of the states being parties to the compact, was defended by the friends of the resolution during the last session, upon that idea.
There is so much depending upon what is done now, that to afford an opportunity for a clamor throughout the United States, and an increased alienation of the Eastern from the southern people, will be a dreadful catastrophe. I submit then, to your consideration, whether in the paragraph speaking upon this subject, it may not be as well at least to make a salvo of this kind, that even if the word states were to be confined to the state governments, it will appear in the sequel, that the state governments themselves, have a right to pass such resolutions as those of the last assembly.


Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 4 January 1800
From: Madison, James
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir
Richmond Jany. 4. 1800
My last covered a copy of the Report on the Resolutions of last year. I now inclose a copy of certain resolutions moved by Mr. Giles, to which he means to add an instruction on the subject of the intercource law which has been so injurious to the price of our Tobo. It is not improbable that the Resolutions when taken up, may undergo some mollifications in the spirit & air of them. The Report has been under debate for two days. The attacks on it have turned cheifly on an alledged inconsistency between the comment now made, and the arguments of the last Session; and on the right of the Legislature to interfere in any manner with denunciations of the measures of the Genl. Govt. The first attack has been parried by an amendment admitting that different constructions may have been entertained of the term “States” as “parties” &c but that the sense relied on in the report must be concurred in by all. It is in fact concurred in by both parties. On examination of the debates of the last Session, it appears that both were equally inaccurate & inconsistent in the grounds formerly taken by them. The attack on the right of the Legislature to interfere by declarations of opinion will form a material point in the discussion. It is not yet known how far the opposition to the Report will be carried into detail. The part relating to the Common law it is said will certainly be combated. You will perceive from this view of the matter, that it is not possible to guess how long, we shall be employed on it. There will in the event be a Considerable majority for the Report in the House of Delegates, and a pretty sure one in the Senate. Can you send me a copy of Preistly’s letters last published. Adieu
Js. M. Jr


Title: To James Madison from John Francis Mercer, 6 January 1800
From: Mercer, John Francis
To: Madison, James

My dear Sir
W River, Jany. 6th. 1800.
I was taken on the road & have been confind by a Cold & inflammatory fever ever since which prevented my going to Balto. I have writen on yesterday to get Notes discounted, (even by shaving if necessary) & shall certainly I expect forward you 400$ before the Assembly rises. I shall lose no time after I get it—altho’ I have been dissapointed in the rect. of Money for Articles sold for Cash at My sale in so unexpected a manner, that it appears hardly possible to render any money transaction certain. Yrs. truly
John F. Mercer


Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 9 January 1800
From: Madison, James
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir
Jany. 9. 1800
The question on the Report printed, was decided by 60 for & 40 agst. it, the day before yesterday, after a debate [of] five days. Yesterday & today have been spent on Mr. Giles’ propositions, which with some softenings will probably pass, by nearly the same vote. The Senate is in rather a better state than was expected. The debate turned almost wholly on the right of the Legislature to protest. The Constitutionality of the Alien & Sedition Acts & of the C[ommon] Law was waved. It was said that the last question would be discussed under Mr. Giles propositions; but as yet nothing has been urged in its favor. It is probable however that the intention has not been laid aside. I thank you for the pamphlets. Adieu. Yrs Affy.
Js. Madison Jr


Title: To James Madison from the Right Reverend James Madison, 9 January 1800
From: Madison, James (Reverend)
To: Madison, James

My dear Sir
Jany. 9th. 1800
I had almost resolved to pay you a short Visit, during your Stay in Richmond; but my Engagements in College will not permit me to indulge my Inclination. Perhaps Mrs. Madison & yourself could spare the Time to spend a few Days with us, before your Return to Orange; if so, be assured, it would afford the greatest Gratification to me, as well as to my Wife, who remembers you with the warmest Affection.
Your Report upon the Resolutions of the last Assembly cannot be too highly estimated by every real Friend to free & rational Government; & particularly by those who are most attached to a federal Govt. You have really swept the Augean Stable; at least, you have cleansed the Constitution from that Filth which Ambition Avarice & Ignorance was heaping up around it. If the Doctrine respecting common Law; if the continued Extension of the Powers of the federal Legislature, & federal Executive; if also judicial Subserviency to executive Measures; if too the mad Ambition of forming Navies & standing Armies, should prevail; or rather be the constant End & Aim of all federal Measures, it would not require the Spirit of Prophecy to foretell the Result. One or other of these Evils must ensue. The Union will suffer a convulsive Death; or, we shall enjoy a quietum Servitium, than which I can safely say a thousand Times, Malo periculor am libertatem. To avoid those Evils, certainly the only Method is to keep the federal Govt. strictly within the Limits of the original Compact, which can be done only by the Reaction of the States. The Misfortune is, that the federal Govt. is one, & pursues one Design; it is always consistent with itself, & will be perpetually tending to that Point of political Repose, Despotism. The States are all-powerful, could they act in Concert; but their Discordancy, the Difficulty of making so many oblique Actions to bear upon one Point, will seldom, I fear, permit an effectual Resistance.
But I think it is necessary for you to proceed one Step further. Those particular Measures of the federal Govt., which you have so ably shewn to be unwarranted by the federal Compact, are only the Consequences of that System which the Administration is pursuing in it’s general Measures. The true Interests of America in it’s exterior Relations seem, either not to be understood, or if understood, they are sacrificed to particular Views. Could it not be demonstrated, upon the Principles of the soundest Policy, & which Smith, in his Wealth of Nations, has so ably illustrated, that it would be fortunate for Ama., if she had not a single Ship upon the Ocean; at all Events, not a single armed Ship? And is it not capable of Proof, that all the Evils which seem to be treading already upon our very Thresholds, spring either directly or remotely from Misconceptions concerning the Nature of Commerce? Is it not also true, that a servile Assentation, or Admiration of the Policy of an Island, has led to the Application of the same Policy to a Continent, as different in its real Interests, as it is in it’s Situation? Those Subjects treated by you, would probably I think, if not certainly, Open the American Mind, I mean that of the great Mass of the People, to see their real Interests; an Opinion would thus be formed, which the federal Govt. would find to be more than a Hercules. When I began, I did not intend to hazard even a few of my political Ideas, but I have been insensibly drawn into the Scrape, by writing to you.
Would not a College fixed in the Middle of this State, & conducted upon a Plan, such as Experience & a real Knowledge of the proper Method of instructing Youth, (the most different possible from any hitherto pursued,) be an Object highly worthy of legislative Consideration. Untill such a Seminary, or such an University be formed, Virginia will never acquire the Preeminence, which may, & ought to distinguish her.
I beg you, as you pass by Nicholson’s printing office, to desire him to give you a Copy or two of my late Address; perhaps your Father & some of the other good People in your Parish may wish to see it. Beleive me, my dear Sir, to be your’s sincerely and Affly.
J Madison


Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 12 January 1800
From: Madison, James
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir
Richmond Jany. 12. 1800
My last informed you of the result of the debates on the justifying Report of the Select Committee. I am now able to add that of Mr. Giles’s resolutions. The question on the whole was decided in the affirmative by a little upwards of a hundred against less than fifty. The vote was rather stronger on some of the particular resolutions, for example the instruction for disbanding the army. The alien sedition & Tobacco instructions passed without a count or a division. That relating to the Common law, passed unanimously with an amendment qualifying it in the words of the paragraph in the Justifying Report under which certain defined parts of the C. L. are admitted to be the law of the U. S. This amendment was moved by the Minority on the idea that it covers the doctrine they contend for. On our side it is considered as a guarded exposition of the powers expressed in the Constn: and those necessary & proper to carry them into execution. I am not able to say in what manner they misconstrue the definition, unless they apply the term “adopt” to the “Court” which would be equally absurd & unconstitutional. The Judges themselves will hardly contend that they can adopt a law, that is, make that law which before was not law. The difference in the majority on the Report & the resolutions, was occasioned cheifly by the pledge given agst. the former by the members who voted agst. the Resolutions of last year. The resolutions also underwent some improvements which reconciled many to them who were not satisfied with their first tone & form. It is understood that the present assembly is rather stronger on the republican side than the last one: and that a few favorable changes have taken place in the course of the Session. It is proposed to introduce tomorrow a bill for a general ticket in chusing the next Electors. I expect to leave this in a week; so that your subsequent favors will find me in Orange. Adieu
Shew this to Mr. Dawson.


Title: To James Madison from Stevens Thomson Mason, 16 January 1800
From: Mason, Stevens Thomson
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Phila Jany 16th 1800.
If any information it may be in my power to furnish you or any services I can render you here, should be deemed by you a sufficient equivalent, I shall be happy in future in being numbered among your correspondents. The present moment however affords nothing interesting. The fate of Mr Nicholas’s motion for disbanding the additional army, you will have seen in the newspapers. As also the application of Mr Randolph to the President in consequence of an insult offered to him by the military. A committee has been sitting on the business today; I suspect it will be past over lightly.
Permit me to mention to you a subject that has already much occupied the public mind, i.e. the ensuing election of P & V Pt. From head-Quarters efforts are making in every part of the Union to divert the public attention from Mr Jefferson, by holding up some popular character in that quarter as V Pt and promising him support on condition that his friends shall vote for Mr A. In Jersey their Assembly have broke up without agreeing to any law on the subject; owing to a difference of opinion (or rather views) in the two branches of the Legislature. The same will take place in this State; in N York there are some hopes of a favorable change in their next assembly. But it seems agreed that the fate of the election will depend upon the regulations which Virga may adopt. Unless you can ensure a general sufferage there, the thing is jeopardized. Will not the political expediency, the strong necessity of the case justify our State in adopting, (in self-defence) some mode which will secure so important an object? As however these considerations must already have occurred to you I will not press them. I will only beg leave to recommend the subject to your serious consideration, not doubting but that the Legislature will do what is right. I am Dr Sir with great respect & esteem Your Obt Sert
Stes. Thon. Mason


Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 18 January 1800
From: Madison, James
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir
Richmond Jany. 18. 1800
Since my last the Senate have agreed to the Report—& the Resolutions, by 15 to 6. To the latter they made an amendt. to the definition of the portion of C. L. in force in the U. S. by inserting the words “by Congress” after the word “adopted,” in order to repel the misconstruction which led the minority to concur in that particular resolution as it passed the H. of. D. The amendt. was agreed to by 82 to 40. The plan of a Genl. Ticket was so novel, that a great no. who wished it, shrunk from the vote, and others apprehending that their Constts. would be still more startled at it voted agst. it; so that it passed by a majority of 5 votes only. The event in the Senate is rather doubtful; tho’ it is expected to get thro’. As the avowed object of it is to give Virga. fair play, I think, if passed into a law, it will with proper explanations become popular. I expect to get away abt. the middle of the week. The assembly will rise perhaps at the end of it; tho’ possibly not so soon. I forgot to tell you that a renewed effort to raise the pay of the members to 3 drs. has succeeded; a measure wrong in principle, and which will be hurtful in its operation. I have desired Barnes to pay you a balance in his hands, out of which you will please to pay yourself the balance due to your Nailory. Adieu. Yrs. Affey.
Js. M. Jr


Title: Account with George Watson, [23 January] 1800
From: Madison, James
To:

[23 January 1800]

Decr
1th
Col James Madison
Dr

5
Club in Wine porter
3—2

6
do – do
3—5

7
do – do
3—9

9
pearel Barley
1—6

10
To 2 Dinners for Ladys
6—0

One Botle porter
3—0

11
do – do
3—0

13
To One mug do
1—6

14
Club in Wine porter
3—3

15
do – do
2—0

16
2 Botles porter
6—0

18
One Glass toddy
1—6

Club in Wine porter
2—8

2 Weeks Bord at 20 Dollers
12—0—0

19
Club in Wine porter
0—2—4

20
do – do
0—3—3

21
do – do
0—2—3

Toddy
0—1—6

A mug porter
0—1—6

22
One Week Bord
6—0—0

One Glass toddy
0—1—6

27th
Brandy
0—6—0

28
Club in Wine porter
0—2—7

29
Glass toddy
0—1—6

One Weeks Bord
6—0—0

Jany
5
To do – do
6—0—0

6
To Club in Wine porter
0—2—9

Your Servent Board from the 10th of Decm until the 10th of Jany at 3/ – per day}

4–10—0

£37–15–11

Ammaunt Braught Over
£37–15–11

Jany
11th
Club in Wine and porter
0—3—0

12
One Week Bord
6—0—0

13
Club in Wine
0—3—0

17
To Club in Wine porter
0—3—2

Sam Came

Back
15

18
To Club in Wine porter
0—3—3

To Crambureys
0—4—0

20
To One Week Bord
6—0—0

To Drams for Sam
0—0—9

21
To Club in Wine porter
—2—6

22
To Club in Wine Porter
—2—0

To 3 Days Bord for Self and Lady at ⟨17⟩/2 per Day
}

2–11—6

To 8 Days Bord for Servent at 3/–}

1—4—0

£54–13—1

 30—0—0

Ballance due
24–13—1

  3–15—0

20–18—1

Jany 23d the above

a/c in full
30–0

Geo Watson
20–

Contra Cr.

By Cash

£30—0—0


Title: To James Madison from John Dawson, 1 February 1800
From: Dawson, John
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir!
Philadelphia. February 1st. 1800.
This will find you on your farm & I hope with restord health. According to practice we have had a bankrupt law before us for many days. The final question on it is pospond untill tuesday week, & the fate of it uncertain—tho I much fear that it will pass—you well know what they can do by time—there was a majority of 20 agt it when introducd.

You observe by the papers that there is a small chance, that the present legislature of this State will agree on a mode for the choice of electors—this must be left to the next & will probably be made by them—in this event we calculate on a favourable issue—N. York & N. Jersey, it is said, are improving.
Bounaparte has brought about another revolution & Suvarrov is going home. Peace is expected. To us I think it certain. With much esteem Your friend
J Dawson


Title: To James Madison from John Dawson, 23 February 1800
From: Dawson, John
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir!
Philadelphia. February 23. 1800.
We have passd another law prohibiting the intercourse with France & her dependencies, & fear we shall have a bankrupt system—the bill has gone up to the Senate by the vote of our speaker, where it woud have been rejected on the first reading had not Mr. Pinckney been absent, & Mr. Cocke, who is opposed to it, voted in favour of it—on its third reading in our house an equall division took place, & Nicholas & Stone voted for it—thus it seems that fate or chance is in its favour.
We have not recievd any accounts from our envoys at Paris tho they are daily expected—it is difficult to say what change the late revolution in that country will produce—however they may have violated the principles of their own constitution & of republicanism, their goverment as it regards foriegn nations is more strong than ever—if they determine to wage the war against the combind powers with vigour, they may be more disposd to accommodate with us.
It seems understood that the legislature of this state will not agree on the mode of choosing the Electors, at least, at this session, & great exertions will be made to obtain majorities in the next legislature, where the choice will probably be made, especially if we can prevail in the senate—the sense of N. York will soon be known, & much, very much depends on the Election in the city—our friends are sanguine, & active—pray how is the general ticket relishd in Virginia? They report that it is universally abhord. You have seen, or heard of a law now before the Senate constituting a tribunal to judge of the qualifications of the electors—it labours, & it cannot be foretold in what form it will come down to us—I wish for your sentiments fully on this subject, which I think highly important, & to which the situation of this state gave birth.

Present me to your friends & to mine, and accept an assurance of much esteem.
J Dawson.


Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 4 March 1800
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Madison, James

Mar. 4. 1800.
I have never written to you since my arrival here for reasons which were explained. Your’s of Dec. 29. Jan. 4. 9. 12. 18. & Feb. 14. have therefore remained unacknoleged. I have at different times inclosed to you such papers as seemed interesting. To-day I forward Bingham’s amendment to the election bill formerly inclosed you, mr. Pinkney’s proposed amendmt. to the constn., & the report of the Ways & Means. B.’s amendmt. was lost by the usual majority of 2 to 1. A very different one will be proposed containing the true sense of the Minority, viz that the two houses, voting by heads, shall decide such questions as the constitution authorises to be raised. This may probably be taken up in the other house under better auspices. For tho’ the federalists have a great majority there, yet they are of a more moderate temper than for some time past. The Senate however seem determined to yeild to nothing which shall give the other house greater weight in the decision on elections than they have. Mr. Pinckney’s motion has been supported, and is likely to have some votes, which were not expected. I rather believe he will withdraw it, and propose the same thing in the form of a bill; it being the opinion of some that such a regulation is not against the present constitution. In this form it will stand a better chance to pass, as a majority only in both houses will be necessary. By putting off building the 74s. & stopping enlistments the loan will be reduced to 3½ millions. But I think it cannot be obtained. For though no new bankruptcies have happened here for some weeks, or in New York yet they continue to happen in Baltimore, & the whole commercial race are lying on their oars, and gathering in their affairs, not knowing what new failures may put their resources to the proof. In this state of things they cannot lend money. Some foreigners have taken asylum among us, with a good deal of money, who may perhaps chuse that deposit. Robbins’s affair has been under agitation for some days. Livingston made an able speech of 2½ hours yesterday. The advocates of the measure feel it’s pressure heavily; & tho’ they may be able to repel L’s motion of censure, I do not believe they can carry Bayard’s of approbation. The landing of our envoys at Lisbon, will risk a very dangerous consequence, inasmuch as the news of Truxton’s aggression will perhaps arrive at Paris before our commissioners will. Had they gone directly there, they might have been two months ahead of that news. We are entirely without further information from Paris. By letters from Bourdeaux of Dec. 7. tobo. was then from 25. to 27. D. pr. Cwt. yet did Marshal maintain on the non-intercourse bill, that it’s price at other markets had never been affected by that law. While the navigating and provision states who are the majority can keep open all the markets, or at least sufficient ones for their objects, the cries of the tobacco makers, who are the minority, and not at all in favor, will hardly be listened to. It is truly the fable of the cat pulling the nuts out of the fire with the monkey’s paw; and it shews that G. Mason’s proposition in the convention was wise, that on laws regulating commerce two thirds of the votes should be requisite to pass them. However it would have been trampled under foot by a triumphant majority.
Mar. 8. My letter has lain by me till now, waiting mr. Trist’s departure. The question has been decided to-day on Livingston’s motion respecting Robbins. 35 for it, about 60. against it. Livingston, Nicholas & Gallatin distinguished themselves on one side & J. Marshall greatly on the other. Still it is believed they will not push Bayard’s motion of approbation. We have this day also decided in Senate on the motion for overhauling the editor of the Aurora. It was carried as usual by about 2. to 1. H. Marshall voting of course with them, as did & frequently does Anderson of Tennissee, who is perfectly at market. It happens that the other party are so strong that they do not think either him or Marshall worth buying. As the conveyance is confidential, I can say something on a subject which to those who do not know my real dispositions respecting it, might seem indelicate. The Feds begin to be very seriously alarmed about their election next fall. Their speeches in private, as well as their public & private demeanor to me indicate it strongly. This seems to be the prospect. Keep out Pensylva., Jersey & N. York, & the rest of the states are about equally divided; and in this estimate it is supposed that N. Carolina & Maryland added together are equally divided. Then the event depends on the 3. middle states beforementd. As to them, Pensylva. passes no law for an election at the present session. They confide that the next election gives a decided majority in the two houses when joined together. Mckain therefore intends to call the legislature to meet immediately after the new election to appoint electors themselves. Still you will be sensible there may arise a difficulty between the two houses about voting by heads or by houses. The republican members here from Jersey are entirely confident that their two houses, joined together, have a majority of republicans; their council being republican by 6. or 8. votes, & the lower house federal by only 1. or 2. and they have no doubt the approaching election will be in favor of the republicans. They appoint electors by the two houses voting together. In N. York all depends on the success of the city election which is of 12. members, & of course makes a difference of 24. which is sufficient to make the two houses, joined together, republican in their vote. Govr. Clinton, Genl. Gates, & some other old revolutionary characters have been put on the republican ticket. Burr, Livingston &c. entertain no doubt on the event of that election. Still these are the ideas of the republicans only in these three states, & we must make great allowance for their sanguine views. Upon the whole I consider it as rather more doubtful than the last election; in which I was not decieved in more than a vote or two. If Pensylvania votes, then either Jersey or New York giving a republican vote, decides the election. If Pensylva. does not vote, then New York determines the election. In any event we may say that if the city election of N. York is in favor of the Republican ticket, the issue will be republican; if the federal ticket for the city of N. York prevails, the probabilities will be in favor of a federal issue, because it would then require a republican vote both from Jersey & Pensva. to preponderate against New York, on which we could not count with any confidence. The election of New York being in April it becomes an early & interesting object. It is probable the landing of our envoys in Lisbon will add a month to our session: because all that the Eastern men are anxious about is to get away before the possibility of a treaty’s coming in upon us. You must consider the money you have in mr. Barnes’s hands as wholly at your disposal. I have no note here of the amount of our nail account; but it is small and will be quite as convenient to me to recieve after I go home. Present my respectful salutations to mrs. Madison and be assured of my constant & affectionate esteem.


Title: To James Madison from Stevens Thomson Mason, 7 March 1800
From: Mason, Stevens Thomson
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Phila. March 7th 1800
Your letter like mine was a long time reaching its destination, owing I presume to the state of the roads. The newspapers will have announced to you from time to time the progress of business here. The Bankrupt Bill after every out of doors effort past the H of Reps by the casting vote of the Speaker only. On the question for its second reading in the Senate it would have been rejected, but from an inadvertency of two Members opposed to it the question was carried, it is now before a select Comtee. A strange fatallity has attended this Bill in its progress. It was three times saved by its enemies from an illtimed complaisance or unfortunate inattention. Our highest toned Gentlemen exult exceedingly at the prospect of this measure succeeding, conceiving it a powerful engine of consolidation or (as they term it) a measure highly fœderal. Ross’s Bill for deciding on the Election of Presdt & V Pt is still before the Senate. We have had it up several days. Its advocates have made several changes in it, but still retaining the obnoxious principles of it. I think however that the House of Reps will hardly be induced to accede to an arrangement which will place the Senate on an equal footing with themselves, on a point so important and so contrary the proportionate weight which the Constitution has given the larger States on this subject.
We have been three days upon, and are now discussing a resolution agt the Editor of the Aurora for a publication of the 19th of Feby. An amendment to connect with it an equally or more offensive publication of Fenno of the 13th. was rejected by the usual Vote, & this resolution will no doubt be carried.
We have heard nothing lately from France. Your ideas on that Subject are in perfect coincidence with those of your friends here. By late arrivals we learn that our Envoys had arrived at Lisbon and that they were to proceed from thence to Paris by land. Why they should have landed at so remote a place, seems hard to be accounted for, unless it is to be considered as a part of that system of procrastination which detained them in this Country above eight month[s] after their appointment. It is evidently intended that we should receive no material information from France during the present Session, so that the President will be left as heretofore to exercise in the plenitude of executive & legislative discretion some of the most important concerns of the nation and to give or withhold information as may best suit electioneering purposes. The case of Jonathan Robbins has been for some days under debate in the House of Reps. Livingston[’s] Resolution was rejected yesterday they are now at half after 3 Ocl: on Bayards resolution of approbation. With my respectful Compliments to Mrs Madison I am Dear Sir Your Friend & Sert
Stes. Thon. Mason


Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 15 March 1800
From: Madison, James
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir
March 15. 1800
Since my last I have been favored with the following inclosures—The Bill relating to Electors Ramsay’s oration, the Report on ways & means, a motion by Bingham, and the resolution for excluding the Judges from other offices.
It is not to be denied that the Constn. might have been properly more full in prescribing the election of P: & V. P. but the remedy is an amendment to the Constn: and not a legislative interference. It is evident that this interference ought to be and was meant to be as little permitted as possible; it being a principle of the Const:n. that the two departments should be independent of each other, and dependent on their Constituents only. Should the Spirit of the Bill be followed up, it is impossible to say, how far the choice of the Ex: may be drawn out of the Constitutional hands, and subjected to the management of the Legislature. The danger is the greater, as the Chief Magistrate, for the time being may be bribed into the usurpations by so shaping them as to favor his re-election. If this licenciousness in constructive perversions of the Constitution, continue to increase, we shall soon have to look into our code of laws, and not the Charter of the people, for the form as well as the powers of our Government. Indeed such an unbridled spirit of construction as has gone forth in sundry instances, would bid defiance to any possible parchment securities against Usurpation.
I understand that the general ticket law is represented at Phila. as generally unpopular. I have no reason to believe this to be the fact. On the contrary, I learn that the information collected at Richmond on this subject is satisfactory to the friends of the law.
The ground has been covered for six weeks with snow; and there is still a remnant of it. It has given a very unusual backwardness to all the preparations for the ensuing crops, but we hope for some amends from its influence on the winter grain.


Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 25 March 1800
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Madison, James

Philadelphia Mar. 25. 1800.
Your’s of the 15th. is safely recieved. I percieve by that that I had by mistake sent you Ramsay’s Eulogy instead of Cooper’s smaller pamphlet, which therefore I now inclose, merely for the last paper in it, as the two first were in the copy I first sent you. I inclose also mr. Nicholas’s amendment this day proposed to the bill concerning President & V. P. formerly sent you. We expect it will be rejected by 17. to 13. in Senate but that it may be brought forward in the lower house with better prospects. We have nothing from Europe but what you will see in the newspapers. The Executive are sending off a frigate to France; but for what purposes we know not. The bankrupt law will pass. A complimentary vote of a medal to Truxton will pass. A judiciary law adding about 100,000 D. to the annual expence of that department is going through the H. of R. A loan of 3½ millions will pass. The money it is said will be furnished by some English houses. Bankruptcies continue at Baltimore; and great mercantile distress & stagnation here. The Republican spirit beginning to preponderate in Pennsva., Jersey & N. Y. and becoming respectable in Mass. N. Hampsh. & Connect. Of R. I. & Vermont I can say nothing. There are the strongest expectations that the republican ticket will prevail in the city election of N. Y. Clinton, Gates, & Burr are at the head of it. It’s success decides the complexion of that legislature. We expect Gouvr. Morris to be chosen by the present legislature a Senator of the US. in the room of Watson resigned. The legislature here parted in a state of distraction; their successors, as soon as chosen, will be convened: but it is very questionable if the Senate will not still be obstinate. We suppose Congress will rise in May. Respectful & affectionate salutations to mrs. Madison & yourself. Adieu.


Title: To James Madison from John Dawson, 30 March 1800
From: Dawson, John
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir!
Philadelphia. March 30. 1800.
I am favourd with your letter without date, & will attend to your observations relative to the post office—as some new arrangements are to be made, & Wyatt I learn is about to quit it is to be hopd that the evils of which you complain may be cur’d.
I hear with much pain that you will not again go into the legislature—accounts from the different parts of the Union are favourable to the crisis in November, & it behoves us to use every exertion & to improve every circumstance—if we succeed the goverment may be restord to its true principles—if we do not we may hang up our fiddles—the earnest request of all your friends here is, that you will serve one year more, after which you may plant your vines & cultivate your clover in peace.
We have not any thing from Europe.
You have seen the proceedings in the case of Duane—& altho you, & all persons in the U. S. (including, no doubt, army & navy,) are calld on to assist in apprehending him, he is not yet taken, but informs that letters, left at the office of the Aurora, will find him in less than 48 hours—we have before us a bill to amend the judiciary establishment, which will pass in some form & may be considerd as the eldest child of the bankrupt system.
I expected to have sent to Mr. R. Taylor some land patents by this mail, but the Sey of State has not sent them to me agreeably to promise, & it being sunday I cannot get them. They shall be forwarded on tuesday—this I will thank you to let Mr. T. know, tho perhaps they may get to Orange C. H. as soon as this letter. With much Esteem Your friend & Sert.
J Dawson


Title: To James Madison from Stevens Thomson Mason, 2 April 1800
From: Mason, Stevens Thomson
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Phila April 2d. 1800
I inclose you the Bill concerning the Presendential [sic] elections, as it has finally passed the Senate. Some of its early friends protested against it, after the 7th Section was stricken out, enough to have rejected it. Yet they either evaded the vote or voted for it declaring their abhorrence of it but expressing a hope that the House of Reps would make it better. Livermore was the only exception, who voted and finally spoke agt it with great acrimony.

You will have seen the high handed proceedings of the Senate agt Duane. He is not yet taken & I believe those who ordered him to be arrested wish he may not. We have yet nothing from our Commissioners. I am Dear Sir Yours
Stes. Thon. Mason


Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 4 April 1800
From: Madison, James
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir
April 4. 1800
Your favor by Mr. Trist was duly handed to me, since which I have recd. the report on imports under your cover, & yesterday your favor of the 25 Ult: accompanied with the pamphlet & Mr. Nicholas’s motion on the Electoral Bill, which appears to be so fair & pertinent, that a rejection of it in favor of any other modification proposed, must fix a new brand on the authors. The spirit manifested in the Senate steadily, & in the other House occasionally, however mischeivous in its immediate effects, cannot fail I think to aid the progress of reflection & change among the people. In this view our public malady may work its own cure, and ultimately rescue the republican principle from the imputation brought on it by the degeneracy of the public Councils. Such a demonstration of the rectitude & efficacy of popular sentiment, will be the more precious, as the late defection of France has left America the only Theatre on which true liberty can have a fair trial. We are all extremely anxious here to learn the event of the Election in N. Y. on which so much depends. I have nothing to add to what I have already said on the prospect with us. I have no reason whatever to doubt all the success that was expected. If it should fall in your way, you will oblige me by enquiring whether there be known in Philada. any composition for encrusting Brick that will effec[t]u[a]lly stand the weather; and particularly what is thought of common plaister thickly painted with White lead overspread with sand. I wish to give some such dressing to the columns of my Portico, & to lessen as much as possible the risk of the experiment. Affectionately yrs
Js. Madison Jr


Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 4 April 1800
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Madison, James

Apr. 4. 1800.
Christopher Mcpherson, better known as mr. Ross’s man Kitt, proposing to go to Charlottesville direct, I shall put into his care a packet of books & a letter left in my room for you by somebody, while I was out, without information as to the quarter from whence they come. I observe them addressed to the care of Governor Monroe. I suppose Kitt will carry on the letter; but as he goes in the stage to Fredsbg., he will leave the books there with mr. Maury. Capt Barry in the frigate US. arrived last night. Our envoys landed Nov. 27 at Lisbon from whence their secretaries proceeded by land to Paris. The principals reimbarked Dec. 21. for Lorient but after long beating against contrary winds in the bay of Biscay, they landed at Corunna Jan. 11. and sent a courier to Paris for their passports. They proceeded to Burgos, & there recieved their passports from Paris, with a letter from Taleyrand expressing a desire to see them at Paris, & assuring them that the form of their credentials, addressed to the Directors, would be no obstacle to their negociation. Murray was already at Paris. The letters from our envoys to the Executive, brought by Capt Barry, are dated at Burgos Feb. 10. They would have about 800. miles to Paris, where they will have arrived probably about the 1st. week in March and by the 1st. week of May we may expect to hear of their reception. The frigate Portsmouth is about sailing from N. York to France. The object a secret. The H. of R. having voted to adjourn the 1st. Monday in May, the Senate this day postponed taking up the resolution for a fortnight. Still I think we shall adjourn the 1st. or 2d. week in May. The Senate yesterday rejected mr. Pinckney’s bill against appointing judges to any other offices. They have this day rejected a bill from the H. of R. for removing military troops from the place of election on the day of an election. You will have seen their warrant to commit Duane. They have not yet taken him. The President has nominated a third Major General to our 4000. men (Brookes of Mass.) and 204. promotions and appointments of officers are now before the Senate for approbation, to make the officers for 16. regiments compleat. It will all be justified & confirmed. Dupont de Nemours has been here on a visit from New York. He will settle there or at Alexandria. He promises me a visit with Madame Dupont, & will pay his respects to you on his way. He is one of the very great men of the age. I am to go by Chesterfield to take my daughter Eppes home with me. This will deprive me of the pleasure of seeing you on the way; but not I hope of seeing you at Monticello where a great deal can be said to you which could not be confided to paper. Accept my affectionate salutations & assurances of attachment for mrs. Madison & yourself. Adieu.


Title: To James Madison from Stephen Moylan, 11 April 1800
From: Moylan, Stephen
To: Madison, James

Sir
Philadelphia April 11th. 1800
When I last wrote you I sent the account as it stands on my books, on which a balance was due to you of £14. this money, I have since paid 14 dol. 50 cents for the water tax of 1799 which is to your debit. I have mislaid your last letter to me, tho I know it is amongst my papers, the substance of it is strong on my memory, the consequence of its receipt Mr. Barnes must have informd you, I will be your yearly tenant at 200 dollars ⅌ an. & I will pay the taxes. Shoud you sir be able to find a better offer or shoud I incline to remove to a better house notice from either, three months beforehand will be sufficient for both.
There are some repairs absolutely necessary, the hearth of the Kitchen has been long falling in, it is now completely so. I am geting a new hearth laid, I will charge you with the expence, I assure you the dinner for my family was yesterday cooked in the parlour.
Be assured sir, while I continue your tenant I will put you to no unnecessary expence. With great esteem I am Sir Your obedt. servant
Stephen Moylan


Title: To James Madison from Christopher McPherson, 13 April 1800
From: McPherson, Christopher
To: Madison, James

Honored Sir
Louisa at Colo. Richd. Morris’sSunday the 13th. of April 1800
I arrived here without Accident at half past 2’oClock. The Horses performed Most admirably.
Tyre informed me on the road it was reduced to almost a Certainty with him, that at this particular period of the Year—there Could not have been hired in his ⟨nei⟩ghborhood a Horse for the present distance for any Sum in reason. This with the Family going off tomorrow on the Same Horses—and other Considerations—Stamps upon my Mind an appropriate Sense of your goodness, that is not easily expressed.
I shall however watch for an opportunity to Convince you how Sensible I am of it. With Considerations of the highest respect & esteem I am Sir Your Most Obedient & very Humble servt
Christ: McPherson


Title: To James Madison from Stevens Thomson Mason, 23 April 1800
From: Mason, Stevens Thomson
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Phila April 23d. 1800
The presedential election bill of the Senate labours in the house of Reps. A motion to postpone it till next Session was on Friday last lost 52 to 48 many who voted agt the postponement declare themselves opposed to the bill and that they will not vote for it in any thing like its present form. It is now in the hands of a select committee and a new project is I am told agreed on. I have not learnt what it is, tho’ it is said not materially to vary in principle from the present one.
The most vigorous and undisguised efforts are making to crush the republican presses, and stifle enquiry as it may respect the ensuing election of P & V Pt. Holt the Editor of the Bee at New London in Cont is condemned to imprisonment for 3 months & a fine of $200 a Printer in N York has been fined & imprisoned I know not for what. Hazewell a printer in Vermont is indicted & will no doubt be convicted for reprinting from another paper a copy of McHenry’s letter to Genl Darke, which letter was actually published by McHenry himself in Fenno’s paper.
Thos. Cooper of Northumberland was tried and convicted on Saturday last for a libel on the Presdt. A more oppressiv⟨e⟩ and disgusting proceeding I never saw. Chase in his charge to the Jury (in a speech of an hour) shewed all the zeal of a well fee’d Lawyer and the rancour of a vindictive and implacable enemy. Cooper is to receive his sentence this day. I am Dr Sir with great regard Yours
Stes. Thon. Mason