Title: To James Madison from David Humphreys, 6 March 1801
From: Humphreys, David
To: Madison, James

No. 265
Sir,
Madrid March 6th: 1801.
This letter is particularly intended to transmit to Government, the circular letter received this day from our Consul at Tripoli, announcing the imminent danger of an immediate rupture with that Regency. While I refer this communication to your attention, I cannot but anticipate from the various representations heretofore made by our Consuls in Barbary, that adequate measures will already have been taken to avert the blow. Here we have nothing interesting since my last. The French army destined for the invasion of Portugal is assembling in the neighbourhood of Bordeaux and Bayonne. General St. Cyr arrived in this Capital last night. Never was so great an activity of Couriers as at present. With great regard and esteem, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble servt.
D. Humphreys.
P. S. March 7th
We have learned with certainty that the French fleet, consisting of seven ships of the line and two frigates, which entered the Mediterranean on the 9th of February as mentioned in my No. 262, on the 20th of the same month went into the harbour of Toulon. The real cause of their going into that port is not so clearly ascertained. But a letter from an Officer on board, which I have seen, intimates their entering that port was occasioned by intelligence received at Sea of the English being in superior force ready to intercept them on their approach towards Egypt. This might, indeed, have been known to those who projected the expedition previous to its sailing fm. Brest.

[Enclosure]
Circular,
To the Agents and Consuls of the United States of America residing in the different Ports of France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, the Barbary States and British Garrisons in the Mediterranean and to all others whom it doth or may concern.
Gentlemen,
I had the honor to inform you in my Circular of the 12th. of November 1800, that certain unjust demands having been made by the Bashaw of Tripoli upon the United States of America which I found it my duty to repel; that said Bashaw had publickly announced in an official manner that he would declare War against the United States of America in six months to commence from the 22d. day of October 1800, if his demands which he purposely, made in an evasive and indeterminate manner, were not complied with. I further informed you that it would be unsafe for our Merchant Vessels to trade in the Mediterranean or it’s vicinity after the 22d. day of March 1801, as these faithless People generally commit depredations before the time or Period allowed is expired. I likewise informed you that I did not conclude in virtue of his promise that our Vessels might remain in the Mediterranean untill the month of March, but in consequence of this Regency being at war with Sweden and the Season of the Year.
I have now therefore to observe that a treaty of Peace and Amity having been concluded between his Majesty of Sweden and this regency on this day the 3d. of January 1801 it is now no longer safe for the Merchant Vessels of said Un. St. of America to remain in these Seas or it’s vicinity as the Swedes have made the following conditions in consequence of their having 131 of their Subjects in bondage, Viz.
They have agreed to pay Drs. 250,000 including all expences for peace and the ransom of their Captives, and 20,000 Dollars annually in consequence of their being permitted to load here 3000 Tons of Salt annually, and as I have every reason to suppose the same terms will be demanded from the Un. St. of America and that our fellow Citizens will be captured in order to ensure our compliance with the said degrading, humiliating and dishonorable terms; I find it my duty to request you to take such measures as will most effectually prevent any of our Vessels from trading on this Sea untill you are advised officially by me or either of our Consuls at Algiers or Tunis that this disagreable affair is terminated which from it’s nature will require much time as it extends to making the United States tributary to Tripoli and must first be authorised by a particular act of the Legislature. I therefore request the above mentioned Agents and Consuls of the Un. St. of America and all others whom it doth or may concern to communicate the contents of this circular Letter to all Merchants and Masters of Vessels belonging to the United States, in order that they may withdraw their property immediately from these Seas and that our Mariners may fly the impending danger. I likewise request them to make the letter circular and to transmit Copies of it along the respective Coasts of their residence and likewise to the Department of State and wherever they may imagine that it will be most likely to answer the desired effect, as I have from hence but few opportunities.
In testimony of the absolute necessity of using the aforesaid precaution before it should be too late, I hereunto subscribe my name and affix the seal of my office.
Done at the Chancery of the United States of America at Tripoli in Barbary this 3d. day of January 1801, and of Independance of the United States of America the 25th.
(Signed)   James L. Cathcart.

   RC and enclosure (DNA: RG 59, DD, Spain, vol. 5). RC marked triplicate; in a clerk’s hand, signed by Humphreys; docketed by Wagner as received 24 May. Enclosure addressed to Thomas Appleton, U.S. consul at Leghorn, and certified as received by Appleton and by Frederick H. Wollaston, consul at Genoa.

   Cathcart sent his 3 Jan. circular to Appleton for copying and forwarding, and Wollaston had it published at Genoa. The first copy, in manuscript, reached Washington by late April, via the schooner Samuel (National Intelligencer, 27 Apr. 1801; William Kirkpatrick to JM, 7 Mar. 1801; printed circular, enclosed in Robert Montgomery to JM, 8 Mar. 1801).

   Yusuf Qaramanli served as pasha (“bashaw”) of Tripoli from 1795 to 1832. The pasha was technically an agent of the sultan at Constantinople; Yusuf had gained the post by overthrowing his brother Ahmad (Kola Folayan, Tripoli during the Reign of Yusuf Pasha Qaramanli [Ile-Ife, Nigeria, 1979], pp. 20–21, 145).


Title: To James Madison from William Eaton, 6 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Eaton, William
To: Madison, James

6 March 1801, Tunis. No. 34. Reports British pressure on bey has forced Tunis to expel French diplomats. Notes resulting change in plans for American charter vessel Anna Maria. Believes British-French hostilities and disruption of French Mediterranean trade offer opportunity for American shipping to replace French in Indian trade. Quotes from earlier statements of bey supporting improved trade with U.S. Proposes commercial venture with Tunis using the Anna Maria to demonstrate validity of this point. Conveys rumor that Russia has threatened to invade Turkish Empire. Speculates that unless sultan deserts British both Turks and Barbary regencies face ruin. Notes that Danes, even with large warship at Tunis, bend to bey’s will.

   RC (DNA: RG 59, CD, Tunis, vol. 2, pt. 1); letterbook copy (CSmH). RC 4 pp.; addressed to Marshall; docketed by Wagner and marked “Ann Maria.” Postscript dated 13 Mar. on triplicate (DNA: RG 59, CD, Tunis, vol. 1) and letterbook copy discusses further commercial opportunities in Mediterranean and speculates on proper U.S. policy there.

   Hammuda served as bey of Tunis from 1782 to 1814. The beys of Tunis acted as independent sovereigns during this period. Though they sent gifts to the sultan, they did not pay regular tribute (Ahmed Abdesselem, Les historiens tunisiens des XVIIe, XVIIIe, et XIXe siècles [Paris, 1973], p. 70; The Encyclopaedia of Islam [rev. ed.; 5 vols. to date; Leiden, 1960—], 3:636; Jamil M. Abun-Nasr, A History of the Maghrib [Cambridge, 1971], pp. 182–83).

   A full transcription of this document has been added to the digital edition.


Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 7 March 1801
From: Madison, James
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir
March 7. 1801
Since my last which went by the mail in course, the papers of my deceased father have been opened. His will was made thirteen years ago, since which two of my brothers have died, one of them leaving a large number of children mostly minors, and both of them intestate. The will itself, besides the lapsed legacies, does not cover all the property held at the time; & valuable parcels of property were acquired subsequent to the will. The will is also ambiguous in some important points, and will raise a variety of questions for legal opinions if not controversies. Another circumstance in the case is that some memorandums preparatory to considerable alterations in the will were left in his hand writing; to which is to be added verbal intimations in his last moments of others wished by him. As the event took place also prior to the 1st. of March, an immediate division may be required if the parties interested so chuse. From this explanation you will judge of the task devolved on me as Extr., and in the other relations in which I stand; especially as much must necessarily be done by amicable negociations concessions & adjustments; and will be indulgent enough to combine it with the political lien to which I have subjected myself. I wait with anxiety for your answer to my last which I expect by the mail of wednesday next. I have nothing to add to that, but a repetition of the assurances with which I am most respectfully & affectionately your friend & servt.
Js. Madison.

   RC (DLC). Docketed by Jefferson as received 12 Mar.


Title: To James Madison from Rufus King, 7 March 1801
From: King, Rufus
To: Madison, James

No. 6.
Dear Sir,
London March 7. 1801.
Owing to the continuance of the King’s illness, the change of the Ministry is still incomplete, and very little business, beyond the ordinary routine, is transacted. It is supposed to be on this account that no measure has been adopted in consequence of the Prussian Note avowing the King’s accession to the Northern Confederacy, the Principles of which, according to every appearance, are to be disputed at the mouths of the Cannon.
The Squadron from Brest has entered the Mediterranean, and is without doubt destined for Egypt, where the English Expedition under Lord Keith and General Abercrombie will have previously arrived. Much and perhaps equal concern exists at Paris and London respecting these Expeditions, as the issue of them must have considerable influence upon the Commencement as well as the conclusion of Negotiations for Peace.
I am assured that our affairs shall be taken into consideration, as soon as the new Cabinet is settled; and I am not without hopes that they may be satisfactorily adjusted.
Having caused it to be understood that we should not consent to pay more than six hundred thousand pounds in lieu of what might be awarded under the sixth article, I shall  a decision upon this offer. With perfect Respect & Esteem, I have the honour to be, Dear sir, Your obedient & faithful Servt.
Rufus King

   RC (DNA: RG 59, DD, Great Britain, vol. 9). In a clerk’s hand, signed by King; docketed by Wagner as received 16 May. Italicized words were written in code; key not found. Interlinear decoding in Wagner’s hand.

   As King had reported in his 9 Feb. dispatch, the younger William Pitt’s ministry was rumored to be at odds with George III over the expediency of direct peace negotiations with France and the political rights of Irish Catholics in the recently created United Kingdom (King to secretary of state, 9 Feb. 1801 [DNA: RG 59, DD, Great Britain, vol. 9]). Pitt’s formal resignation 14 Mar. (the king had called for a new government 31 Jan.) enabled him to avoid handling the military-naval stalemate with France. A new ministry formed under Pitt’s friend Henry Addington, Viscount Sidmouth, on the same day (J. Steven Watson, The Reign of George III, 1760–1815, The Oxford History of England, ed. Sir George Clark, vol. 12 [Oxford, 1960], pp. 402–5).

   Article 6 of the Jay treaty provided for a mixed commission to assess the debts Americans owed pre-Revolutionary British creditors and to settle Loyalist claims stemming from the Revolution. The two American members of this commission withdrew in mid–1799 protesting the course the three English members had established in the proceedings. With the commission thus deadlocked, and the London spoliations commission (hearing American claims against the British) dissolved in retaliation, the Adams administration hoped to negotiate amendments to article 6. King preferred bypassing the Philadelphia commission and calculating a lump sum settlement for the amount Americans owed—a suggestion Lord Grenville agreed to consider in December 1800 (ASPAmerican State Papers: Documents, Legislative and Executive, of the Congress of the United States … (38 vols.; Washington, 1832–61)., Foreign Relations, 2:382–428; Bernard Mayo, ed., Instructions to the British Ministers to the United States, 1791–1812, Annual Report of the American Historical Association for the Year 1936, vol. 3 [Washington, 1941], pp. 174–75).

   Wagner here left a blank space in the decoding.


Title: To James Madison from William Kirkpatrick, 7 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Kirkpatrick, William
To: Madison, James

7 March 1801, Málaga. Sends by the schooner Samuel departing for Boston a copy of 17 Feb. letter from O’Brien just received.

   RC (DNA: RG 59, CD, Málaga, vol. 1). 1 p.; docketed by Wagner as received 28 Apr. The enclosed letter from O’Brien to Kirkpatrick reported the release of four hundred European troops by the Algerine regency and speculated that the terms the Swedish representatives had conceded to Tripoli would be rejected by the Swedish government (DNA: RG 59, CD, Algiers, vol. 6).

   A full transcription of this document has been added to the digital edition.


Title: To James Madison from William Loughton Smith, 7 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Smith, William Loughton
To: Madison, James

7 March 1801, Lisbon. Reports that Spain has declared war on Portugal and embargoed its ships. Believes that “the present System of France” is “to force Engd. into a peace by excludg. her from all the ports of Europe.” Encloses copy of treaty shutting British out of Tuscany. Recounts rumor that a secret treaty grants France Spanish territory north of Ebro River (Biscay, Navarre, Aragon, and Catalonia) while pledging France to respect Spain’s reannexation of Portugal. Postscript conveys news of French and British naval movements in Mediterranean.

   RC (DNA: RG 59, DD, Portugal, vol. 5). 3 pp.; marked private; docketed by Wagner as received 29 Apr. Enclosure not found.


Title: To James Madison from Robert Montgomery, 8 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Montgomery, Robert
To: Madison, James

8 March 1801, Alicante. Transmits copy of dispatch of 19 Feb., since which he has received letters from Leghorn and Genoa, one of which is enclosed, giving an alarming account of affairs in Tripoli. Will detain the brig Fanny of Beverly to carry dispatches. This post brought another letter from Appleton of 18 Feb. enclosing letters for Cathcart to be forwarded by express.

   RC and enclosure (DNA: RG 59, CD, Alicante, vol. 1). RC 2 pp.; in a clerk’s hand, signed by Montgomery; docketed by Wagner as received 29 May. Enclosure is a printed copy of Cathcart’s 3 Jan. circular letter (2 pp.). Montgomery’s 19 Feb. dispatch (ibid.) enclosed a list (not found) of U.S. vessels at port between July 1800 and January 1801 and reported arrival there of French commercial legation from Algiers aboard the George Washington.

   A full transcription of this document has been added to the digital edition.


Title: To James Madison from Arthur St. Clair, 9 March 1801
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Madison, James

Sir:
Cincinnati, March 9, 1801.
In December last I gave information that a very violent violation of the Territory had been committed by the British near to Detroit, and a man carried away by force and murdered; but I had not then received the account of the particular circumstances, and, therefore, referred you to the Hon. Mr. Tracy, who happened to be at Detroit at that time. The clerk of the peace has since transmitted the particulars; an indictment was found against a sergeant of the British troops who commanded the party, and the testimony on which it depended is inclosed.
By the treaty, he ought to be demanded, but as the measure is delicate, and a refusal on their part might involve very serious consequences, I request your instructions on the subject. Where military posts are near each other, and desertion so easy, it can not well be otherwise than that difficulties will occur, and it is much to be wished that some agreement to deliver up deserters on both sides were entered into. The above affair has caused very great uneasiness amongst the inhabitants.

   Printed copy (William Henry Smith, ed., The St. Clair Papers: The Life and Public Services of Arthur St. Clair … [2 vols.; Cincinnati, 1882], 2:532–33).

   Letter not found.

   Uriah Tracy, Federalist senator from Connecticut.

   On 9 Oct. 1800 Sgt. Levy P. Cole of the British army and other soldiers crossed the American border at Detroit and broke into the home of Francis Poquette, whom they suspected of being a deserter from royal service. They carried him off to the Canadian military post at Malden. Beaten and stabbed while trying to defend himself, Poquette soon died of his wounds. A territorial grand jury at Detroit indicted Cole for murder in December 1800 (Peter Adrian to St. Clair, 20 Oct. 1800, Smith, St. Clair Papers, 2:498–99; JM to governor of Upper Canada, 5 May 1801).

   St. Clair referred to article 27 of the Jay treaty.


Title: Property Listing of James Madison, Sr., Estate, ca. 10 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Madison, James
To:

Ca. 10 March 1801. Lists JM’s valuation of slaves and land (except Montpelier) to be divided among the surviving children, the heirs of two deceased sons, and Nelly Conway Madison.

   Ms (DLC). 2 pp.; in JM’s hand; written in pencil. Filed at the end of 1787 in the Madison Papers (DLC). As executor for his father’s estate, JM was responsible for a division of the elder Madison’s property following his death on 27 Feb. 1801.


Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 11 March 1801
From: Monroe, James
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Richmond 11. March 1801.
I am happy in yr. acceptance of the department of State in the new admn. & sincerely hope yr. service will prove honorable to yourself, and prosperous to yr. country. Nor have I a doubt of the result, since we have had enough of crisis, to teach the people how to estimate an admn. which is attached & faithful to republican principles. Mr. Jefferson’s address delivered on taking the oath gives general satisfaction, as it ought to do. It avows principles which are perfectly sound, and commands the unqualified approbation of the republicans, while it conciliates the opposit[e] party. His outset is as favorable as it could have been. His admn. is formed of characters who will draw to him an increased portion of the publick confidence, and in other respects give him all the support he could expect from one. So that on the whole I think you all have a fair prospect, of promoting the welfare of yr. country, and of being rewarded for the service, by a due acknowledgment on the part of the people; which I most sincerely hope may be the case.
I will thank you to forward the enclosed to Chanr. Livingston, by post, if no safe private opportunity presents itself, wh. latter I prefer. When does he sail, from what port, does he take his family with him? I sent you by the mail of this day, a letter from Mr. Skipwith respecting himself & Mr. Barlow which I hope you will receive. I have been requested by several persons of merit to recommend them to the President for particular offices, now in the tenure of others. On that acct. I evaded a decisive answer to them, deeming it improper to interfere in such cases. Indeed it is an unpleasant office in any situation. On this subject I will write you again: at present I am preparing to attend a festival in honor of the late change in favor of free govt. Yr. fnd. & servt
Jas. Monroe
I will forward the letter to Mr. Livingston to morrow, & in the interim will thank you for an answer to the abo⟨ve⟩ enquiries respecting him.

   RC (NN: Monroe Papers).

   Jefferson delayed Livingston’s departure awaiting French reaction to changes the Senate made to the September 1800 convention with France. Livingston and his family sailed from New York aboard the frigate Boston 15 Oct. and arrived in Paris 3 Dec. (George Dangerfield, Chancellor Robert R. Livingston of New York, 1746–1813 [New York, 1960], pp. 309–10).

   Fulwar Skipwith’s letter (not found) probably reached JM through Jefferson (see JM to Monroe, 6 May 1801, and Monroe to JM, 17 May 1801). Jefferson commissioned Skipwith as the Paris commercial agent in June 1801. Meanwhile Joel Barlow, the Connecticut writer and former U.S. envoy to Algiers, had remained in Paris as a spokesman for neutral shipping rights. In February 1799 the two Republicans had initiated an appeal to the French government to reopen negotiations with the U.S. (Skipwith to JM, 12 Oct. 1801 [DNA: RG 59, CD, Paris, vol. 1]; Joel Barlow to His Fellow Citizens of the United States. Letter II. On Certain Political Measures Proposed to Their Consideration, Paris, 20th December, 1799 [Philadelphia, 1801], p. 1; James Woodress, A Yankee’s Odyssey: The Life of Joel Barlow [Philadelphia, 1958], p. 203).


Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 12 March 1801
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Washington Mar. 12. 1801.
I offer you my sincere condolances on the melancholy loss, which has detained you at home: and am entirely sensible of the necessities it will have imposed on you for further delay. Mr. Lincoln has undertaken the duties of your office per interim, and will continue till you can come. Genl. Dearborn is in the War Department. Mr. Gallatin, though unappointed, has staid till now to give us the benefit of his counsel. He cannot enter into office till my return, & he leaves us tomorrow. In the mean time Dexter continues. Stoddert also accomodated me by staying till I could provide a successor. This I find next to impossible. R. R. L. first refused. Then Genl. Smith refused. Next Langdon. I am now returning on Genl. Smith, but with little confidence of success. If he will undertake 6. months or even 12. months hence, I will appoint Lear in the mean time. He promised, if Langdon would take it for 6. months, he would in that time so dispose of his business as to come in. This makes me hope he may now accept in that way. If he does not, there is no remedy but to appoint Lear permanently. He is equal to the office if he possessed equally the confidence of the public. What a misfortune to the public that R. Morris has fallen from his height of character. If he could get from confinement, & the public give him confidence, he would be a most valuable officer in that station & in our council. But there are two impossibilities in the way. I have ordered my chair & horses to meet me at Heron’s on the 22d. inst. not that I count on being there punctually on that day, but as near it as I can. I shall be at home a fortnight. I hope you will find it convenient to come on when I do or very soon after. Dr. Thornton means to propose to rent his house to you. It will be some two or three hundred yards distant from your office, but also that much nearer towards the Capitol. We shall have an agreeable society here, and not too much of it. Present my esteem to mrs. Madison and accept yourself assurances of my constant & sincere attachment
Th: Jefferson

   FC (DLC: Jefferson Papers). RC offered for sale in Stan. V. Henkels Catalogue No. 592 (1892).

   Believing that Federalists in the March 1801 special session of Congress would frustrate the appointment of Gallatin, Jefferson held his nomination for treasury secretary until the newly elected Senate convened in December but gave Gallatin a recess appointment on 14 May (Malone, Jefferson and His TimeDumas Malone, Jefferson and His Time (6 vols.; Boston, 1948–81)., 4:33–34).

   Samuel Dexter of Massachusetts had succeeded to the treasury office in late December 1800 (Senate Exec. ProceedingsJournal of the Executive Proceedings of the Senate of the United States of America (3 vols.; Washington, 1828)., 1:363–64).

   Benjamin Stoddert, a Georgetown businessman, had assumed responsibility for the Navy Department when Congress created it in 1798 (ibid., 1:275).

   Livingston turned down the Navy Department before accepting the ministerial post in Paris. John Langdon of New Hampshire also declined, as did the Philadelphian William Jones. Dearborn, and then Samuel Smith, filled the post temporarily. Jefferson finally prevailed on Smith’s brother Robert, a Baltimore merchant and admiralty lawyer, who agreed in mid-July to assume the office (ibid., 1:400; Noble E. Cunningham, Jr., The Process of Government under Jefferson [Princeton, N.J., 1978], pp. 12–14, 19–21).

   Tobias Lear (1762–1816), born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, graduated from Harvard in 1783 and later served as private secretary to George Washington. Prominent among the northerners with whom Jefferson sought to balance the weight of Virginians and southerners in his administration, Lear was the president’s choice to be commercial agent at Saint-Domingue.

   Robert Morris had overspeculated in various land ventures and spent three years in debtors’ prison. He was released in August 1801 (Ellis Paxson Oberholtzer, Robert Morris: Patriot and Financier [New York, 1903], p. 354).

   Heron’s was located in Culpeper (Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, 12 Mar. 1801 [DLC: Jefferson Papers]).

   William Thornton (1759–1828) and JM had been friends since the fall of 1789, when they both lived in the same Philadelphia boardinghouse. Thornton, designer of the U.S. Capitol, was a District of Columbia commissioner, 1794–1802.


Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 12 March 1801
From: Monroe, James
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Richmond 12. March 1801.
Permit me to present to yr. acquaintance Mr. Camp of Culpepper a young man who was presented to me by Mr. Wm. Lambert, who formerly wrote in Mr. Beckley’s office, and likewise by Mr. Pollard of this place who is his relative. His object is to obtain some office, or rather employment, under you if to be had, or in the treasury department if yr. office can give him no place. By Mr. Lamberts presenting him I presume he is sound in principle. Mr. Lambert also requested me to mention his willingness to act under you, at least till the meeting of Congress, when he thinks of offering for the clerkship of the H. of Reps., in wh. however I hope he will desist if Mr. Beckley offers. We shod. have employed Mr. Lambert in collecting the laws had the bill passed. He is represented to be a man of talents & real worth. Mr. Jefferson knows him. Where is Mr. Ervin? Can no trust abroad be given him? I am inclined to think he wod. be gratified with a moderate one; Secretaryship to France or London, or chargé elsewhere, or consul generalship to London. His pretentions appear to me good, and that he merits attention. Mr. Jefferson however knows him also. Sincerely yours.
Jas. Monroe
Mr. Prevost has desired me to mention him also. He is a worthy young man rather in distress.

   RC (NjP).

   Both Robert Camp and William Lambert had worked for John W. Beckley (1757–1807), who for twelve years was clerk in the Virginia assembly and after 1789 clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives. Beckley was defeated for reelection in 1797 and then spent several years in Philadelphia clerking in local courts. He took an active part in Jefferson’s campaign for the presidency, and in 1801 the House again named him its clerk (Edmund Berkeley and Dorothy Smith Berkeley, John Beckley: Zealous Partisan in a Nation Divided [Philadelphia, 1973], p. 223; PJMWilliam T. Hutchinson et al., eds., The Papers of James Madison (1st ser., vols. 1–10, Chicago, 1962–77, vols. 11—, Charlottesville, Va., 1977—)., 1:318–19 n. 2; Noble E. Cunningham, Jr., “John Beckley: An Early American Party Manager,” WMQWilliam and Mary Quarterly., 3d ser., 13 [1956]: 50–51).

   Monroe may have referred to the bill, which the House of Delegates tabled 23 Jan. 1801, to collect and publish all Virginia laws passed before 1782 (Journal of the House of Delegates of the Commonwealth of Virginia … [Richmond, (1801)], Dec. 1800, p. 79).

   Active in the 1800 election as a Jefferson supporter in New York, George William Erving had visited JM at Montpelier while playing a small part in the effort to prevent a Jefferson-Burr tie in the electoral college. Later the president offered Erving diplomatic posts in Lisbon and Tunis; he finally agreed to serve in London (Harry Ammon, James Monroe: The Quest for National Identity [New York, 1971], pp. 190, 196–97; Senate Exec. ProceedingsJournal of the Executive Proceedings of the Senate of the United States of America (3 vols.; Washington, 1828)., 1:403).

   John B. Prevost, a young New Yorker whom Monroe had known in Paris, was named a judge of the superior court of Orleans Territory in 1804 (Ammon, James Monroe, p. 196; Senate Exec. ProceedingsJournal of the Executive Proceedings of the Senate of the United States of America (3 vols.; Washington, 1828)., 1:476).


Title: To James Madison from James Leander Cathcart, 13 March 1801
From: Cathcart, James Leander
To: Madison, James

No. 4Sir
Tripoli March 13th. 1801
Since my last dispatch the enclosed being a duplicate, I have not heard a syllable from the Bashaw which convinces me that he waits for answers to his letters from Algiers, before he takes any decisive measure, if the Bashaw of Algiers peremptorily orders him to accept my offer: I think notwithstanding all his bravado, that he will acquiesce, if on the contrary the Dey does not write to him upon the subject war will be the immediate consequence; upon the whole our Peace being guaranteed by Algiers has been of service to our interests here, & I should recommend to government to continue the treaty in its present form was it not for the consideration that should we have a rupture with Algiers that Tripoli will immediately take that opportunity to break with us, as it were in a manner to retaliate upon us for forcing them to keep their agreements with us inviolable, and if the Dey does not use his mediation in our favor in the present instance it can answer no purpose whatever to continue the treaty in its present form.
The Cruisers of this Regency are the same in Number and force as the[y] were when I forwarded my last list of the marine force of this Regency. The[y] are now fitting for Sea & will sail the begining of April probably to capture Americans. I have forwarded Circular letters to all our Consuls from Triest to Lisbon to detain all American vessels in port and by no means permit them to sail unless under convoy. I have taken every step to evade as well as to lessen the calamity that depends upon me, the result is in the hands of the most high which time will determine; what ever means the wisdom of government adopts to arrange their affairs in future with this Regency the greatest dispatch I hope will be made & funds forwarded to put it into execution which will facilitate the negociation very much; unless Iron should be prefer’d to gold as a metal which will insure us a more honorable as well as a more permanent peace; ’tho it would be attended with a considerable expence & some risque. I am with sentiments of the greatest respect—Sir Your most Obnt. & very humble Servt.
James Lear. Cathcart

   RC (DNA: RG 59, CD, Tripoli, vol. 1, pt. 2). Addressed to Marshall. Copy (ibid.), marked duplicate, includes notes in Eaton’s hand (see nn. 1 and 3).

   Eaton placed an asterisk here on the duplicate and wrote at the bottom of the page: “*It is more probable that his silence covers actual hostilities.”

   Mustafa, dey of Algiers from 1798 to 1805, ruled as an absolute sovereign (Mouloud Gaïd, L’Algérie sous les Turcs [Algiers, 1974], pp. 167–71; Encyclopaedia of Islam, 1:368).

   Eaton placed two asterisks here on the duplicate and wrote at the bottom of the page: “**The Prime Ministers declaration of 20. Dec. is explicit on this subject. Eaton.”

   For the text of Cathcart’s 21 Feb. circular letter to the consuls, see Knox, Naval Documents, Barbary WarsDudley W. Knox, ed., Naval Documents Related to the United States Wars with the Barbary Powers (6 vols.; Washington, 1939–44)., 1:421–22.


Title: To James Madison from Samuel S. Cooper, 13 March 1801
From: Cooper, Samuel S.
To: Madison, James

Sir,
Philada. March 13th. 1801.
The law which suspended the commercial intercourse between the United States, and France and her dependancies having now expired, and the citizens of the United States being left free, to pursue their Commerce with that Nation: Several Merchants of this city are about dispatching Vessels to the Isle of France, in the Indian Ocean. But as that place is far distant from the Mother Country, and as in time of War, it is difficult to maintain a regular communication with her; it is probable that France has not yet been able to inform the Goverment of that Island, that she has concluded a treaty, which settles the differences between her & the United States. And from the want of this information on the part of that Colony, it is possible that, the ships first arriving there, from the United States, may have to encounter some inconveniences.
Under this impression, I have taken the liberty to inform you, that I am about dispatching the Schooner Mary, Capt. Ross, for the Isle of France and shall be happy that you would please to make her, the bearer of any dispatches, the President of the United States may think proper to send to the American Consul at that place.
The knowledge, I gained of the temper of the people of the Isle of France, whilst I remain’d there in 1799, to effect an arrangement to prevent the Depredations on our East India Commerce, induces me to think that something of this kind will be necessary.
The Schooner Mary will be ready for Sea in 8 days, by which time, I hope, to have the pleasure of recieving an answer to this letter. With Sentiments of respect I have the honor to be Your Obt. & H Servt
Saml. S. Cooper
A Brig called the Sy⟨ren?⟩ will also sail from hence for the Isle of France in 8 or 10 days.

   RC (DNA: RG 59, ML). Docketed by JM.

   In retaliation for French attacks on American merchantmen, Congress had prohibited trade with France and its colonies since June 1798. Renewed for a second time early in 1800, the act expired 3 Mar. 1801 (Annals of CongressDebates and Proceedings in the Congress of the United States … (42 vols.; Washington, 1834–56)., 5th Cong., 3d sess., 3737–39, 3795; ibid., 6th Cong., 1st sess., 1438–42).


Title: To James Madison from Ebenezer Stevens, 13 March 1801
From: Stevens, Ebenezer
To: Madison, James

Sir.
New York 13th. March 1801
Inclosed is Invoice & Bill of Lading of a Cargo I have laden on board the Ship Grand Turk, James Laughton Master, by order of John Marshall Esqr. late Secry State, for account of the Tunisian Powers; You will please to annex the proper Certificates, and documents to accompany the Ship, as early as practicable—the person from whom I chartered her has agreed to wait the return of mail, for the papers, & should there be any delay will expect Demurage.
I have inclosed a Duplicate Invoice, to remain in your office, thereby preventing a delay in makg. out another.

This is the 3rd. Cargo I have shipped for the United States, to these powers. There will be another Cargo, to be shipped to complete the demand, & I beg leave to observe, that it would be attend[ed] with less expence to Government, to send one of the U States Ship’s with it. I have the Honor to be Sir with great respect Your Hble St.
Ebenr Stevens

   RC (DNA: RG 59, ML). Docketed by Wagner. Enclosure not found.

   Ebenezer Stevens was a prosperous lumber merchant in New York.


Title: To James Madison from Israel Whelen, 13 March 1801
From: Whelen, Israel
To: Madison, James

Sir.
Philadelphia March 13. 1801.
I have the honor to inform you that the ship Grand Turk, charter’d at New York to proceed to Tunis finish’d her loading yesterday. Invoices will be transmitted directly from General Stevens to you to prevent delay. I have enquired to day at our Offices, and find the Cargo can be insured at 5 ⅌ Cent premium; you will please to give directions if it is to be effected. The Oak timber directed to be prepared for Algiers, is not yet ready nor can it be procured so as to answer the Order for some time to come. The Shipwrights inform me, that from the nature of the Order, if it were not prepared to a particular pattern so as to answer each other, it would be of little value when it arrived there this circumstance occasions more delay than was expected.
If it should be thought adviseable to send the Yellow pine timber it can only be procured in Carolina, or Georgia and will require considerable time to get it ready.
So soon as it shall be determined whether the whole or any part of the other Articles which have been written for by Mr. OBrien, is to be sent, particularly if it is to be by the Vessel intended to be loaded here, I Should wish to be inform’d of it in time to get them ready. I have the honor to be Very respectfully Sir Your Obedt. servt.
Israel Whelen

   RC (DNA: RG 59, ML); letterbook copy (DNA: RG 45, Purveyor’s Office, Philadelphia). RC in a clerk’s hand, signed by Whelen.

   See JM to O’Brien, 17 July 1801.

   Philadelphia merchant Israel Whelen was purveyor of public supplies (J. Thomas Scharf and Thompson Westcott, History of Philadelphia, 1609–1884 [3 vols.; Philadelphia, 1884], 3:2086–87; Senate Exec. ProceedingsJournal of the Executive Proceedings of the Senate of the United States of America (3 vols.; Washington, 1828)., 1:288, 352).


Title: To James Madison from John Quincy Adams, 14 March 1801
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Madison, James

No: 185.Sir.
Berlin 14. March 1801.
The question of peace and War between Great Britain & the North of Europe still appears to depend upon the determination of the british Cabinet, relative to Count Haugwitz’s note of the 12th: ulto. How long this may be delayed it is yet impossible to say. At the date of the last accounts we have, the king’s health, though hoped to be in a recovering state, was not such as to permit the transaction of public business. The proposals made to Russia, which I mentioned in my last, and upon the success of which Lord Carysfort appeared to place some dependence, have I believe decidedly failed, and those made here have not been more successful.
The naval and military preparations in Russia, Sweden and Denmark, are pursued with unabated perseverance and ardour. The king of Sweden has been in person to the Seaports where they are chiefly employed about them in his dominions, and has had an interview with the prince royal of Denmark at Helsingberg.
The Emperor of Russia has prohibited all exportation of every kind from his dominions, by land or water. The object, is to prevent the English from obtaining at second hand those articles which are supposed to be indispensably necessary for their navy. The prohibition was at first limited to the Prussian dominions; but probably the Prussian Minister represented that this would indicate a jealousy with regard to a faithful ally which was by no means deserved, and the prohibition was in consequence of this made general. It is possible that Russia will urge her allies to imitate her example, and they may comply with this desire. The measure is very strong, as it can at best only distress England by a blow rebounding from their own subjects. Other Countries are less able than Russia to bear such experiments, and other governments are compell’d to enquire with more attention what effect a measure will produce upon the concerns and subsistence of their own people. The Northern powers however, his allies have placed themselves in a state of so much dependence upon him, that they seldom venture to refuse him anything, and even when they hesitate objections, he has a mode of proceeding, which very much abridges all discussion. It is therefore impossible to say how far this system of non-exportation will extend. So long as it shall be supported in Russia, there will be little encouragement for our vessels to frequent the ports of that Empire, and therefore little benefit from the step I took, and mentioned to you in my last letter, to secure protection for our navigation there. But it seems to me that this plan is too violent in its nature to be of long duration. A non-importation ordinance would probably more immediately and more forcibly affect the English, and may perhaps be substituted instead of this, when the trial shall have discovered its inconveniences. Even non-importation might indeed be more easily decreed than carried into effect. Such laws exist both in France and Holland; though it is well known, that the exportation of manufactures from England to those Countries was never so great at any period of peace as at present.
The Russian Ambassador Kalütchew had not arrived at Paris, on the first of this month. He travell’d very slowly, and from the time of his arrival at Francfort on the Main was received, entertained, and escorted with all the honours usually paid to a Sovereign prince travelling as such.
It is hardly to be conceived even if the closest alliance should take place between France and Russia (an event apparently probable) that one of its objects will be a concerted invasion either of Great Britain or of Ireland. However eccentric the political course of Russia may be thought, and however influenced by present feelings and momentary views, I cannot imagine she will so totally discard her great and permanent interest of maintaining the british Islands in some sort as a balance against France, as to lend her hand for making them completely subservient to the french power. France and Russia have each her interest and each her passions hostile to England; but the point in which they concur is not in Europe; but in Africa and Asia.
An effort has recently been made by France to send a reinforcement to her army in Egypt. A squadron of seven ships of the line and two frigates, under the command of Admiral Gantheaume, slip’d out of Brest harbour notwithstanding the English blockade, on the 30th: of January, and pursued their voyage without impediment untill they entered the mediterranean. But, whether they found themselves too closely pursued by a superior English squadron, or the naval force of that nation in the mediterranean too great for them to contend with, they found it necessary to pass the straights again, and take refuge in the harbour of Toulon. On their passage they took an English frigate and some smaller vessels.
This hazardous experiment which cannot yet be said to have failed, has probably been made in consequence of the English expedition under General Abercrombie. Yet France might have looked without much anxiety for the issue of that, without exposing more of her own ships and men to a similar fate. Of Abercrombie’s troops it is not known where they are. They first went to the island of Rhodes, but found there was no safe harbour there. They next landed on the coast of Caramania. But some unforeseen obstacles prevent their landing in Egypt. English armies of late have been famous for the discovery of unforeseen obstacles. An opposition member in the house of peers observed lately that they had made such discoveries, as dykes in Holland, and rocks in Spain.
The Russian and Prussian Ministers at Constantinople, have jointly made remonstrances against the admission of these English troops by the Ottoman porte, and insisted upon the Sultan’s placing his sole reliance for the restoration of Egypt, upon their negotiations with France. Whether possess’d by French or English, there is at least all probability that Egypt is forever lost to the Porte. I am with the utmost respect, Sir, your very obedt: & humble Servt:
John Q. Adams

   RC (DNA: RG 59, DD, Prussia, J. Q. Adams at Berlin); letterbook copy (MHi: Adams Papers).

   Count Christian August Heinrich Kurt von Haugwitz, one of three ministers in the Prussian foreign office, notified the British government on 12 Feb. that any act of war against Sweden and Denmark would force Prussia to support its allies. As both Rufus King and Adams had reported since mid-January, war between Britain and the armed league seemed certain. Czar Paul I, responding to Napoleon’s overtures, had seized all British merchantmen in Russian ports. The British retaliated by detaining Swedish and Danish shipping, thus drawing the fourth member of the neutral league, Prussia, into the crisis.

   John Joshua Proby, first earl of Carysfort, was British envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary to the court of Berlin at the time. The British had captured Malta in September 1800. Before receiving Haugwitz’s note the British ministry had determined on a conciliatory course toward Paul’s government—perhaps recognizing his title as “Protector” of Malta or agreeing to joint occupation of the island.

   Letterbook copy reads: “her other allies.”

   Concerned that Americans visiting Russian ports might be mistaken for Englishmen, Adams raised the issue with the Russian minister in Berlin (Adams to JM, 7 Mar. 1801).

   Stepan A. Kolychev (or Kalytcheff) had replaced General G. M. Sprengtporten as a special Russian envoy in France.


Title: To James Madison from Charles Pinckney, 16 March 1801
From: Pinckney, Charles
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
March: 16: 1801 Georgetown (Mary Land)
I waited here sometime in expectation of the pleasure of seeing you. It is now nearly fourteen Years since we parted & the changes we have encountered as well in our individual situations as in our political concerns made me particularly anxious to see a friend with whom I had been so intimately acquainted & for whom I have always had the most sincere affection. I am to lament extremely the cause which has occasioned the disappointment—in your venerable father’s case it was truly to be lamented—he ought to have lived—for if any thing can soothe the infirmities of age or render the decline of Life Agreeable, it must be the recollection that our children ornament & are deservedly distinguished by their country. I have often graduated pleasure, and on my scale this stands the highest. Your Father enjoyed it more than most men, & I am only sorry that when we have triumphed & You are placed in a situation, so much calculated to give scope to Your talents, this further enjoyment has been denied him. It was my hope also to have seen Mrs: Madison of whom I have so often heard all I could wish for your sake, & to whom I request you to present my most respectful compliments.
I am now to become one of your political family & am to rely on your goodness & friendship for the fullest instructions & copious & liberal advice on all subjects that You think will be interesting to me while in Europe. I have never yet seen the Old World & as I am now forty & my dear little children very young & in a most excellent situation with a lady a relation of mine I know no other time that will suit me so well & I am therefore, if no accidents prevent, to embark from Charleston in June to which place I will thank You to have my Credentials & Commission & Instructions forwarded & Duplicates of them by Post. I request Duplicate Commissions & Credentials for fear of accidents to one set by the Post which sometimes happen, & I have always found Duplicate Commissions or Credentials useful & valuable when I had journies to make or to send by the Post. With respect to the Outfit & salary, Mr Meredith the Treasurer informs me that on your lodging any sum in the Bank of Columbia in Georgetown he will transmit me by post three sets of Bills drawn on the Branch Bank in Charleston which mode I will prefer as to the Outfit: Being the safest. As to my salary You will please Write me on that subject & send me your Instructions as to the mode I am to pursue, for I am new in the Business & must be governed by you. I conclude by requesting to be admitted into the number of Your private & confidential Correspondents while abroad & by most cordially contragulating [sic] You & our country on the Elevation of our valuable & able friend Mr Jefferson to the chair, under whose administration I anticipate with confidence, Peace Honour & all the Blessings of rational & republican Liberty. I am dear sir with affectionate regard & respect Yours Truly
Charles Pinckney
Direct all Letters Commissions &c. to me in Charleston South Carolina—to be left at the Post office there.

   RC (NN). Docketed by JM.

   JM and Pinckney served together at the Federal Convention in Philadelphia, 1787.

   Pinckney was given an interim appointment as minister to Spain during Jefferson’s first weeks in office.


Title: To James Madison from William Thornton, 16 March 1801
From: Thornton, William
To: Madison, James

Dear sir
City of Washington 16th: March 1801.
I had expected, with more satisfaction & pleasure than I can express, your arrival in this City, when I heard of your late afflictive loss, in which I sincerely sympathize. I also lament, on another Account your detention in Virginia. The President, whose tender regard for you makes him always speak with an uncommon degree of Interest for your Welfare, informed me that you had long experienced delicate Health, and he even feared a change of climate might finally be requisite. I do not think I ever enjoyed such Health as since my residence in this place, and I sincerely hope that even this Change from your present Situation may be so favourable, that you will have Cause to pronounce it one of the healthiest places in the World. This I hope will perfectly reconcile you to the Office to which the President has invited you—an Office which every one rejoices you have accepted—for the virtuous, whatever their political Sentiments may be, agree in your Virtue & Talent, and sincerely rejoice in your Appointment. You know me too well to doubt the sincerity of my Expressions.
We have now a Philosopher also at our Head, whose Heart appears in every Action. His late Speech is full of wisdom, and is a Model of Conciliation. It is admired by all good Men, and he will find them the firmest Supporters of his Administration.
We are anxiously looking for you, and I take the liberty of requesting you to make my House your Home on your arrival. If you should like our plain Mode of living I shall rejoice exceedingly in your Stay; if not, I will leave nothing undone to endeavour to obtain better Accommodations for one whom I so sincerely regard. We hope Mrs: Madison will be with you, & we request you will present to her the joint Compliments and good Wishes of my Family and accept, dear Sir, the regard & esteem of your respectful & sincere Friend
William Thornton

   RC (DLC). Docketed by JM.


Title: To James Madison from Winthrop Sargent, 16 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Sargent, Winthrop
To: Madison, James

16 March 1801, Mississippi Territory. No. 45. Unpaid services of an Indian interpreter have required him to draw upon State Department for $262.50. Wrote a letter on the past due account 14 May 1800, but nothing was done. The interpreter’s attorney made “an Extravigant Charge” and brought “an action against me,” which delayed matters. Still needs instruction on how to pay interpreters.

   Printed copy (Dunbar Rowland, ed., The Mississippi Territorial Archives, 1798–1803 [Nashville, 1905], p. 329). A letter from Sargent dated 21 Mar. 1801 (no. 46), concerning a draft on the State Department, is printed ibid., p. 330.


Title: To James Madison from William Loughton Smith, 16 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Smith, William Loughton
To: Madison, James

16 March 1801, Lisbon. No. 45. Encloses translation of Spanish declaration of war against Portugal. The counter-declaration is expected daily. Reports on Portuguese preparation for war. Notes that the best protection against invasion by France has always been the French fear of throwing Portuguese colonies into the hands of the British. Transmits dispatches from Tunis that he has just received. Notes rumors of French-Russian invasion of Turkey, which may have as its design the diversion of forces destined for Egypt. Believes that peace between Naples and France will add Italy to the coalition against Britain.

   RC (DNA: RG 59, DD, Portugal, vol. 5). 3 pp.; in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; docketed by Wagner as received 17 Apr. Enclosures not found.


Title: To James Madison from Ebenezer Stevens, 16 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Stevens, Ebenezer
To: Madison, James

16 March 1801, New York. Requests passport for French passenger, Felix Verger, and his family, who wish to sail on his brig to Ile de France. Encloses Verger’s letter to Stevens. Stevens’s son goes on the vessel as supercargo and will carry diplomatic dispatches if required. Hopes nothing will delay loading the ship bound for Tunis carrying U.S. tribute.

   RC and enclosures (DNA: RG 59, ML). RC 2 pp. Enclosures (3 pp.) are Verger to Stevens, 16 Mar. 1801 (in French), and a half-page sheet with passport information.


Title: To James Madison from David Humphreys, 17 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Humphreys, David
To: Madison, James

17 March 1801, Madrid. No. 267. Encloses copies of remonstrances to Spanish government on behalf of American merchants who sold Spanish government commodities, expecting to be paid in specie, and instead were paid in depreciated paper money; also encloses Spanish replies. All communication with Lisbon has been interrupted, so funds to operate his office must come through a Dutch bank. The joint French-Spanish expedition against Portugal has not been launched. “If the war shall be undertaken in earnest, the conquest of Portugal seems almost certain.” In the circumstances he predicts the Portuguese will meet all conditions that French and Spanish demand except reduced foreign garrisons. Postscripts dated 20 and 21 Mar. tell of political arrests of former prime minister Urquijo and others.

   RC and enclosures (DNA: RG 59, DD, Spain, vol. 5). RC 7 pp. Enclosures 7 pp., partly in Spanish; docketed by Wagner.


Title: To James Madison from William Loughton Smith, 17 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Smith, William Loughton
To: Madison, James

17 March 1801, Lisbon. Encloses a letter from Humphreys, which was left open for his reading but which he found himself unable to decipher because their codes differ; “as many inconvens. may arise from the Minrs. in Spain & Portugal not being able to correspond in cypher at this period, I submit to your Judgmt. whether I ought not to be furnished with that which Col H. has.” Predicts closing of Portuguese post will interrupt his communications with Barbary. Reports arrival of two packets from Falmouth with news of George’s III’s “Insanity” and likely Danish-Swedish accommodation with Britain.

   RC (DNA: RG 59, DD, Portugal, vol. 5). 1 p.; marked private; docketed by Wagner as received 28 Apr.


Title: To James Madison from John Dawson, 18 March 1801
From: Dawson, John
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir,
March 18. 1801.
This will be handed to you by Capn. Barney, who believes, and I believe with him, that he has been treated very ill by the post office department. As that will, I expect, soon fall under your superintendence, I recommend him to you, as a person worthy any encouragement which you can afford him. Yrs,
J. Dawson.

   RC (DLC). Docketed by JM.

   See Barney to JM, 27 Apr. 1801.

   John Dawson (1762–1814) was an old friend and frequent correspondent of JM’s. He served in the Virginia House of Delegates and Continental Congress before being elected in 1797 to JM’s seat in the House of Representatives, where he continued in office until his death (PJMWilliam T. Hutchinson et al., eds., The Papers of James Madison (1st ser., vols. 1–10, Chicago, 1962–77, vols. 11—, Charlottesville, Va., 1977—)., 7:199 n. 17).


Title: To James Madison from William Kirkpatrick, 18 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Kirkpatrick, William
To: Madison, James

18 March 1801, Málaga. Transmits copies of his last three letters. Encloses copy of [3 Jan.] letter received from Cathcart indicating Tripoli may attempt to injure U.S. Mediterranean trade. Six U.S. seamen he claimed from French commissary have been delivered to him and will be placed on board American vessels bound for U.S. Has given clothes to some. Minister at Madrid has not succeeded in freeing those on British vessel brought into Málaga by Spanish prisoners and crew members; until resolution of mutiny issue, Spanish minister refuses to release them. Reports that quarantine is still imposed on vessels from U.S. Transmits another dispatch from minister at Madrid.

   RC and enclosure (DNA: RG 59, CD, Liverpool, vol. 2). RC 2 pp. Enclosure 3 pp.

   A full transcription of this document has been added to the digital edition.


Title: To James Madison from James C. Mountflorence, 18 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Mountflorence, James C.
To: Madison, James

18 March 1801, Paris. Reports that the Prize Council has not tried any captured U.S. vessels for several months; he is assured that no trial will occur until after exchange of ratifications. Six U.S. vessels arriving in Málaga have been placed under rigorous quarantine.

   RC (DNA: RG 59, CD, Paris, vol. 1). 1 p.; addressed to Marshall; docketed by Wagner as received 12 June. Partly in code; key not found. Coded section apparently discusses Louisiana cession.

   A full transcription of this document has been added to the digital edition.


Title: To James Madison from Elias Vander Horst, 18 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Vanderhorst, Elias
To: Madison, James

18 March 1801, Bristol. Transmits copy of his 17 Dec. dispatch (since which he has received no letters); encloses accounts of imports and exports by American vessels during six-month period ending 31 Dec. 1800, newspapers, and a price list of London commodities. Food costs continue to rise. Shortage is now critical, and continued war will interfere with supplies from European continent. Imports from U.S. cannot suffice as West Indies needs U.S. supplies also. Agricultural prospects in Bristol are flattering, owing to mild weather. In 30 Mar. postscript adds that delay of vessel allows him to enclose more newspapers. Wheat and flour prices have declined considerably, but without opening of Baltic decline will not last.

   RC (DNA: RG 59, CD, Bristol, vol. 2). 2 pp.; marked “Copy”; docketed by Wagner as received 16 May. Enclosures not found. Vander Horst’s 17 Dec. 1800 dispatch, reporting food shortages, was not received until 10 Apr. 1801 (ibid.). South Carolina planter Elias Vander Horst had served as consul at Bristol since 1792 (S.C. Historical and Genealogical Magazine, 17 [1916]: 112; Senate Exec. ProceedingsJournal of the Executive Proceedings of the Senate of the United States of America (3 vols.; Washington, 1828)., 1:121–22).

   A full transcription of this document has been added to the digital edition.


Title: To James Madison from Thomas Bee, 19 March 1801
From: Bee, Thomas
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir,
Charleston So. Carolina 19 March 1801.
Two days ago I was honoured with a Letter from the late Secretary of State, inclosing me a Commission as Chief Judge for the fifth Circuit Court of the United States. As I feel myself unable to undergo the fatigue of the long Journies necessary to the performance of the duties of that Office, and as I apprehand I can render as Essential service to my Country by continuing in the Station of District Judge which I now hold, I herewith return the Commission & have to request that you Sir will be pleased to inform the President of the United States that I decline the appointment.
I am pleased with an Opportunity of corresponding with an Old Congress Acquaintance, the recollection of the many Anxious Hours we passed, & the difficulties we Struggled with during the time we were together in Congress adds pleasing satisfaction to our present happy situation, & I contemplate a continuance of Peace & Prosperity to our Common Country to the remotest Periods of time. With Esteem & respect I am Dr. Sir your Obt. Servt.
Tho Bee

   RC (DLC). Docketed by JM.

   Adams had nominated Bee as chief judge on 23 Feb. 1801 (Senate Exec. ProceedingsJournal of the Executive Proceedings of the Senate of the United States of America (3 vols.; Washington, 1828)., 1:383).

   Thomas Bee attended the Continental Congress between 1780 and 1782, where he was acquainted with JM. Both men served on the committee that reviewed the petition Arthur Lee presented in self-defense after his return from France in 1780 (PJMWilliam T. Hutchinson et al., eds., The Papers of James Madison (1st ser., vols. 1–10, Chicago, 1962–77, vols. 11—, Charlottesville, Va., 1977—)., 2:31 n. 8; Louis W. Potts, Arthur Lee: A Virtuous Revolutionary [Baton Rouge, La., 1981], p. 243).


Title: To James Madison from James Yard, 19 March 1801
From: Yard, James
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Philada. March 19. 1801
I hope you do me the Justice to believe that I participate cordially in the general satisfaction occasioned by your Appointment to an office of high Trust & Importance. It is however probable that I Should have been less forward in expressing to you this Sentiment, were I not urged by Motives of Friendship to Dr. Stevens to make an early Communication to you on his Subject. In doing this I mean only to State certain facts with which you may be unacquainted & a Knowledge of which may be proper in order to ascertain the precise Relation in which he Stands with Respect to our Gouvernment.
Soon after the Arrival of Mr. Bunel the Agent of Toussaint Dr. Stevens was invited to accept of his present office. This he did under a promise of remaining one year in the Island. In the Month of March 1799 he Sailed for the Cape where he made the commercial Arrangement with Toussaint & where he yet remains in the public Service. In the Month of May of the following Year his Health was so much impaired by intense Application to the Duties of his office that he Sent forward to me his Resignation. His Presence in the Island was considered of so much Importance at that interesting period that I was induced to follow the Advice given to me to avail myself of the Authority which he gave me to keep back this Document from its Destination. I now inclose it that you may be certain of this Fact. I informed him of the Step I had taken; He agreed to remain ’till the Fall and he has again from the same Motives protracted his Stay until this Time. He is now extremely impatient to be released from his present Charge & has in repeated Instances requested that I Should apply to Gouvernment on his Behalf in order that Measures might be taken for that purpose. With this Request I Should have complied sooner, had it not been made at a period when the probability of a Change in the Administration might have Subjected him to the Imputation of being actuated by the Spirit of Party. I conceived that it would be more decorous in him to meet the new Administration in his office & to wait their orders at his Post. Thus you will see that he has for a long Time past sacrificed his own Ease & Inclinations to what he deemed public Good. Whether this End has been in any Degree promoted by his services, it is of no Importance as it respects the abstract Merit of his Conduct. He has faithfully discharged his Engagements to Gouvernment at the Expence of Health & with the Loss of much valuable Time, notwithstanding all that has been said to the contrary. I now request on his Behalf that Gouvernment will permit him to retire from his office & that, if any previous Measures on its part are necessary, they may be Speedily taken. If I might [be] pardoned for the suggestion I would Sollicit on Behalf of his Wife & Family Some Degree of Consideration for their personal Convenience & security in retiring from the Cape. Our Vessels of War can afford both without Injury to the public service. Thus far for my friend Stevens. Now one Word for myself.
You will reccollect that the Missio⟨n⟩ of Dr. Stevens took place at a Period when a partiality for France was not much à L’ordre du Jour and as it never had been so with me, I had no Difficulty in entering freely into any Measures that were likely to inflict a deep Wound in her side. I Sent large Quantities of Arms & Ammunition to Toussaint. This Act & the Motive that induced it would be equally unworthy of your Notice & my Mention, did I not deem it incumbent on me to declare that neither the one nor the other was influenced by any Member of the late Administration.
I have delayed for some Time sending this Letter & Some Papers from Dr. Stevens in Hopes of hearing of your Arrival at Washington. I hope they may find you there.
If any local Knowledge which I possess relative to St Domingo can be of any Service to you in forming your Arrangements relative to that very interesting Country I will chearfully communicate it by replying minutely to whatever Queries you may make. I am confident that few subjects will occur in the Course of your Administration which will demand more profound Reflexion or more dextrous Management.
I hope you will pardon me for troubling you with this long Letter which I will finish with an assurance wh. must be grateful to you, Vizt. That such is the state of public Opinion here at present, that it rests almost wholly with the new Administration to fix the Tone which it is hereafter to assume. I am very respectfully Dear Sir Your very obdt sert.
James Yard

   RC (NN). Cover marked private by Yard; docketed by JM. Enclosures not found.

   Edward Stevens was a Philadelphia physician who had practiced earlier in the Danish West Indies. He was appointed U.S. consul general for Saint-Domingue in 1799 (Syrett and Cooke, Papers of HamiltonHarold C. Syrett and Jacob E. Cooke, eds., The Papers of Alexander Hamilton (26 vols.; New York, 1961–79)., 9:287 n. 1; Senate Exec. ProceedingsJournal of the Executive Proceedings of the Senate of the United States of America (3 vols.; Washington, 1828)., 1:312).

   James Yard was U.S. consul to St. Croix, Danish West Indies, 1791–92. He was Stevens’s brother-in-law and on occasion acted as a wine merchant on behalf of JM and Monroe (James Thomas Flexner, The Young Hamilton: A Biography [Boston, 1978], pp. 18–19; Pickering to JM, 7 Apr. 1801, n.; Yard to JM, 28 Oct. 1800, 18 Nov. 1803 [DLC]).


Title: To James Madison from Robert Ritchie, 19 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Ritchie, Robert
To: Madison, James

19 March 1801, Port Républicain. Reports that armed barge from British frigate Circe entered Jacmel harbor and cut moorings of brig Fair American of Philadelphia. Captain and vessel were presumably carried off to Jamaica. Has obtained vessel’s register and will forward copy to U.S. agent at Kingston. Has written to acquaint Toussaint with circumstances and expects him to send complaint to British admiral. Has received report of similar attempt on schooner Venus of Charleston, which was aborted by crew’s defense.

   RC (DNA: RG 59, CD, Cap Haitien, vol. 3). 2 pp.; marked triplicate; in a clerk’s hand, except for Ritchie’s complimentary close and signature; docketed by Wagner as received 29 Apr. See also the protest of the Fair American’s owner (David Moffett to JM, 16 May 1801).

   A full transcription of this document has been added to the digital edition.


Title: To James Madison from Carlos Martínez de Yrujo, 20 March 1801
From: Yrujo, Carlos Martínez de
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir.
Philadelphia 20 of March 1801.
It is a pleasant circumstance for me, that when I do address you in writing for the first time in my life, I am to fullfil the agreable task of congratulating you on your appointement to one of the first dignities of the Republique. If talents & [illegible] the depositaries of the public authority can insure the happiness of the Common Wealth, America can not, but have the luckiest fate. Accept, Sir, my sincere compliment not only on account of your nomination to be Secretary of State, but on the triumph of the Republicans over a party, which since four years has left nothing undone to produce mischief of every Kind. Madame Yrujo & all our Family are highly rejoiced at your promotion, & charge me to make their compliment to Mrs. Maddison as well as yourself.
I do prevail with pleasure of this opportunity to introduce to your acquaintance & favor Mr. J. de Yznardy American Consul, who was at Cadiz, & lattely dismiss’d by Mr. Adams a fortenight previous to the expiration of his Administration. The sincere regard I have for this Gentleman, & the justice with which he appears as wishing to be replaced on a post he has fulfill’d for years with honor & integrity, induce me to interfere on his behalf, & recommend him to your politeness & good offices.
I am sorry I am to leave this Country, when the political turn of things which has taken place of late would have render’d my residence in it, as agreable hereafter, as it has been disagreable before; but after five years of yellow fever, & political discord I am entitled to enjoy of the delights of caprice which I expect to find on the beautiful plains of Lombardy; where I am to reside being appointed by the King my Master his Minister near the cisalpine Rep. At all events I’ll have the pleasure to see you down in the Federal city immidiatly after my Succesor’s Arrival.
Be so good as to present our best compliment to Mrs. Maddison, & believe me Sir your most obt. Servt.
Le Chevalier d’Yrujo

   RC (DLC).

   Yrujo married Sarah McKean, daughter of the Republican governor of Pennsylvania, Thomas McKean.

   Josef Yznardy (or Yznardi; also Iznardi), a Spaniard, was the father of Joseph M. Yznardy, who had been named U.S. consul at Cádiz in February 1793. Often acting as his son’s deputy, the elder Yznardy in 1797–98 became embroiled in a maritime controversy with Capt. Joseph Israel and later had Israel arrested. The father came to the U.S. to contest these issues, appealing to Jefferson and other prominent Americans for support and assembling a pamphlet in his defense. Adams appointed another consul “in the place of Mr. Iznardi,” but Jefferson was more sympathetic and after July 1802 the elder Yznardy again acted as consul at Cádiz (Senate Exec. ProceedingsJournal of the Executive Proceedings of the Senate of the United States of America (3 vols.; Washington, 1828)., 1:131, 381, 403; Yznardy to Marshall, 23 Aug. 1800, Alexander J. Dallas to [Levi Lincoln?], 31 Mar. 1801, and Anthony Terry to JM, 22 July 1802 [DNA: RG 59, CD, Cádiz, vol. 1]).

   The Cisalpine Republic (with Milan the capital) grew out of Napoleon’s merger, in 1797, of Cispadene and Transpadene.

   Carlos Fernando Martínez de Yrujo (or Casa-Yrujo; also Irujo) was Spanish minister to the U.S. President Adams sought his recall, but through Jefferson’s intervention Yrujo retained his post, serving until 1807 (Jefferson to Yznardy, 26 Mar. 1801, Ford, Writings of JeffersonPaul Leicester Ford, ed., The Writings of Thomas Jefferson (10 vols.; New York, 1892–99)., 8:33–34; Diccionario de historia de España [3 vols.; Madrid, 1968], 1:753–54).


Title: To James Madison from Isaac Cox Barnet, 20 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Barnet, Isaac Cox
To: Madison, James

20 March 1801, Bordeaux. Encloses correspondence of his agent M. Pelletreau at Rochefort on sailors tried and sentenced there to twenty-four years in chains; adds copies of protests and his letter to naval minister on the subject and reply. Unlike ships of other nations, American vessels neither come to consular office on arrival, deposit ship’s papers there, nor report clearance on departure. American crew of brig under Swedish flag has arrived from Guadeloupe. Under present circumstances, Barnet is convinced vessel will sail to West Indies under U.S. colors. Arrival and departure of vessels without regard to their consul is unique to Americans. Encloses copy of his letter to commissary general of police on this matter. Claims counterfeit ship’s papers are being sold in Jersey and Guernsey for $16 a set. Recommends that description and signature of every alien naturalized be inserted in records. Ship Diana of Baltimore from Norfolk has arrived at Bayonne in distress and sold its cargo. Schooner Betty, lately under Danish colors, put in at Bordeaux from Plymouth. Reports insanity hearing for Earl Loring of Cumberland County, Massachusetts; encloses accounts of his disbursements for care of same [not found]. Mayor of Bordeaux wrote him [not found] to have his commission recorded to get tax exemption, but without exequatur (and having already paid taxes), Barnet could not comply. Reports neutral trade at Bordeaux is entirely at a standstill except for U.S. ships. News of nonratification of convention has created reaction. Trial of U.S. vessels in prize councils is still suspended. Has received no letter from State Department since those of 31 Mar. and 1 Apr. 1800. Repeats request for indemnity in his letter of 25 Sept. 1800, based on five years’ service.

   RC and enclosures (DNA: RG 59, CD, Bordeaux, vol. 1). RC 14 pp. Numbered enclosures, partly in French, include several protests from ship captains whose vessels were cleared for voyages to Europe. Barnet suspected their papers gave false destinations or involved graver offenses.

   A full transcription of this document has been added to the digital edition.


Title: To James Madison from Meriwether Jones, ca. 20 March 1801
From: Jones, Meriwether
To: Madison, James

Letter not found. Ca. 20 March 1801, Richmond. Mentioned in Jones to Levi Lincoln, 25 Mar. 1801 (DNA: RG 59, LAR, 1801–9). Requests that contract for public printing be awarded to the Examiner. Explains why Mr. Davis should not continue to benefit from this emolument. Concludes that if JM thinks the change impolitic, Jones will be content.


Title: To James Madison from John Dawson, 21 March 1801
From: Dawson, John
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir!
Baltimore. March 21. 1801.
I regret that we did not meet before my sailing, which I expect will be on tomorrow. My trip will, I hope, prove usefull to my country, and advantageous and agreeable to myself. I shall return early in the fall, and expect that it will not be attempted in the district to take an advantage of my absence, or shoud it be that the attempt will be resisted by my friends.
My wishes are to obtain some information of the characters and views of the European nations from actual survey. The moment I think a favourable one, and shoud I be calld on to render other services to my country, I shall be better enabled to do so. With much esteem Your real friend
J Dawson.

   RC (DLC). Docketed by JM.

   Dawson departed on the U.S. sloop Maryland 22 Mar. carrying the amended convention with France to Paris for ratification (Dawson to Samuel Smith, 22 Mar. 1801 [DLC]; Philadelphia Gazette of the U.S., 26 Mar. 1801).


Title: To James Madison from John Quincy Adams, 21 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Adams, John Quincy
To: Madison, James

21 March 1801, Berlin. No. 186. Reports continuing British embargo on Swedish shipping is likely to close Elbe and Weser to British vessels. Relays hearsay that among British seamen detained in Russian ports there are some Americans as well. Has pressed Russian minister to free such persons; recounts minister’s reluctance and his suggestions that U.S. appoint a consul in Russia and recall American sailors from region. Believes Treaty of Lunéville will be ratified within the thirty days allowed. Notes that French are destroying German defenses before their planned withdrawal. “Thus France will have a most powerful barrier against Germany; while Germany will have none at all against France.”

   RC (DNA: RG 59, DD, Prussia, J. Q. Adams at Berlin); letterbook copy (MHi: Adams Papers). 3 pp.


Title: To James Madison from James Leander Cathcart, 21 March 1801 (Abstract)
From: Cathcart, James Leander
To: Madison, James

21 March 1801, Tripoli. No. 5. Encloses accounts of disbursements and accounts current and copy of banker-merchant Leon Farfara’s record of monies paid pasha in lieu of overdue U.S. tribute. Denounces Farfara as “incorrigible” villain but notes that O’Brien trusts him. Relates his financial embarrassments, urges annual stipend of $2,000 for the consular post, and stresses the indignity he must suffer owing to a continual lack of funds. Reports on the primitive state of local medicine. Has paid rent on consular house until May 1804 to prevent further price increase by landlord. Was obliged to give presents to pasha’s children and also spent $200 for “intelligence of the Bashaws real intentions relative to us.” Cannot understand why his diplomatic outfit has not been granted, since by law it is allowed to all ministers and chargés d’affaires.

   RC (DNA: RG 59, CD, Tripoli, vol. 1, pt. 2); FC (NN: Cathcart Papers). RC 6 pp.; addressed to Marshall; marked duplicate; in a clerk’s hand, signed by Cathcart; docketed by Wagner as received 31 July. FC signed by Cathcart and docketed by him at a later time, with the notation: “If Mr. Madison has not seen the original of this it would be proper to furnish him with a copy of it.” Postscript on FC only, in Cathcart’s hand, relates to his financial affairs. Enclosures not found.

   A full transcription of this document has been added to the digital edition.


Title: To James Madison from Arthur Campbell, 23 March 1801
From: Campbell, Arthur
To: Madison, James

Sir
Washington March 23. 1801
It is difficult to remain silent amidst the general exultation on the Election of the present Chief Magistrate of the Union; I mean the joy is general among the Farmers and Labourers of all Classes. Some Merchants and the monied interest with the Bigots and fanatics in religious matters, may have their fears. But the old Tories, and new Gallants of the Whore of England can never be won, even by justice and moderation, their hate will be irreconcilable.
The present seems to be a great crisis in the affairs of Man, and if we are wise, will make use of it, further to secure our independence. All honest Men must have foreseen, that no great danger can ever result, from the enmity or apparent friendship of any nation in the World, but one. We may be in alliance with France, with Spain, or our more natural Friends of Batavia, and we may quarrel at some future time, and make peace, as England and France have often done, but still remain independent Nations.
But an Alliance, or over intimate commercial connection with the Mother-Country, with the Queen of the Isles, and Mistress of the Ocean, might raise longings and discontents that neither Moses and Aaron nor Jefferson the Restorer could satisfy.
Let us then embrace the present opportunity to claim the rights of the Neutral Flag; to have an injurious Treaty amended, to be moderate and just to Individuals, but proud and united as a people, who know their equal rights, and can assert them.
The sophistry, the succumbing, the sycophantical crouching, on the pretext of promoting foreign commerce, has at length become burthensome and odious to the bulk of our fellow Citizens. We may now speak out. And there seems to be a favourable opportunity to act decisively.
You will not construe my meaning as tending to provoke a war. The reverse I apprehend would take place on the present administration adopting a lofty tone. It is well known the fears of a certain Court of the success of the late Election, a high tone will keep up those fears; and we have much more to expect, from fear, than from love.
You see Sir, I am willing to offer my mite to support the present Administration, which I believe will be to support our Constitutional Independence.
One small matter of personal concern I have to mention; a Rev. Gent. of the name of John Hargrove who lives in Baltimore has lately met with a reverse of fortune, and would now accept of an upper Clerks business in one of the Departments, he writes a good hand, and I am informed is a classical Scholar and an honest Man, but what lays us under obligations, he wrote last Summer and Fall some pieces that was printed in defence of the present President that had a good effect in removing prejudices relating to religious opinions, and moral principles, a liberal Clergyman nowadays is a valuable Man. Our Countryman, Colo. Robert Carter and I expect Genl. S. Smith can satisfy you respecting the Rev. Gent private character. I will write him that I have made his name known to you.
Accept these effusions, from an old Friend, who rejoices with you, at the present happy prospect, of our public affairs. I am Sir, with much Respect your obedient servant
Arthur Campbell

   RC (DLC). Docketed by JM; also docketed by Wagner: “Recd April 2d 1801—to be forwarded to Mr Madison.”

   John Hargrove was pastor of the Swedenborgian New Jerusalem Church and editor of the Temple of Truth (E. Millicent Sowerby, Catalogue of the Library of Thomas Jefferson [5 vols.; Washington, 1952–59], 2:178 n.).

   Campbell apparently attributed to Hargrove A Vindication of the Religion of Mr. Jefferson, and a Statement of His Service in the Cause of Religious Liberty (Baltimore, 1800), signed only “A Friend of Real Religion.” The pamphlet was the work of Samuel Knox, a Presbyterian minister and educator who at the time was principal of an academy in Frederick, Maryland. Not until 1810 did Jefferson discover that Knox was author of the piece (Malone, Jefferson and His TimeDumas Malone, Jefferson and His Time (6 vols.; Boston, 1948–81)., 6:263–64 and n. 46).

   Arthur Campbell (1743–1811) of Washington County, Virginia, was a Republican leader in the southwestern part of the state (PJMWilliam T. Hutchinson et al., eds., The Papers of James Madison (1st ser., vols. 1–10, Chicago, 1962–77, vols. 11—, Charlottesville, Va., 1977—)., 4:125–26 n. 1).


Title: To James Madison from David Humphreys, 23 March 1801
From: Humphreys, David
To: Madison, James

Sir
Madrid March 23d. 1801
I have this moment received intelligence from a person worthy of credit, at the Royal Sitio of Aranjuez, to the following effect: Last night Lucien Bonaparte signed (and it is he himself who told me) the Treaty by which the Heriditary Prince of Parma (and not his father) is definitively named King of the Etruscans. This election of the Prince, the Son, instead of the Prince his father, explains the reason of the so great frequency of Couriers. To me it affords an additional reason for believing the cession of Louisiana to France. With great regard & esteem, I have the honour to be Sir Your Mo: ob: & Mo: h’ble Servt
D. Humphreys
P. S March 24th. I send another copy of the State Paper against Jansenism, which was not made out in time for last Night’s Mail. This Paper, in conjunction with the Bull, respecting the Council of Pistoja, which was published here on the 9th: of Jany last & forwarded by me to you under a blank cover, will sufficiently announce the System which prevails in this Country at present.

   RC (DNA: RG 59, DD, Spain, vol. 5). Marked “(fourth copy).” Italicized words were written in code; key not found. Interlinear decoding in Wagner’s hand. Enclosure not found.

   The 1786 Synod of Pistoia had called for general Catholic church reforms and included declarations that only a general church council—not the pope—was infallible and that church authority was limited to spiritual matters. Pope Pius VI issued a bull, Auctorem fidei (1794), condemning those conclusions. On 10 Dec. 1800 King Charles IV approved the bull and ordered that the “Jansenist” beliefs not be taught, defended, or believed, threatening violators with severe punishments (Novísima recopilacíon de las leyes de España [6 vols.; Madrid, 1805–7], 1:13–14).


Title: To James Madison from William Irvine, 23 March 1801
From: Irvine, William
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir,
Carlisle 23d March 1801.
I most sincerely & heartily congratulate you, on the late success in the Election of President, and appointments to office in consequence; not that I think yours has been sought, or is even agreeable to you, but in as much as you are willing to lend your aid and give some of your time to the public service, so soon as circumstances would render them acceptable. Many of us, you & I among the first, have been some years past vilely traduced, as men who were useing every effort (insidiously too) to destroy the Government. This charge might fairly & on good ground be retorted. But it is time if it can be effected to have done with revilings and abuse; I fear however it will be difficult, as that will not answer the purpose of the oposite party, some of whome I am confident will be satisfied with nothing short of some form of Monarchy—these to be sure are not numerous, and they would be deserted by many who talk highly of their Federalism, the moment they understood their leaders actually meant a Monarchy. They all now, at the present moment, affect great moderation, speak of conciliation as very desireable—extoll the Presidents speech, &ca. &ca. But mark the end—they expect & wish conciliation all on one side—so soon as they find that they & friends are to be dismissed from office, the[y] will bounce and kick.
My opinion on this head is, that their temper & spirit should be fairly tried, there is no danger in an experiment of this kind; they say the Democrats, (an epithet of reproach) have not capable men enough to fill the offices if they were even well disposed. I am among those who gives no credit to this, I believe there are plenty as capable and much more deserving in all respects than the present incumbents.
On general principle, I am persuaded it will be highly injurious to the Republican interest, if the changes are not pretty general. In Pennsylvania, where the thing has come more immediately under my observation, I know it is indispensably necessary that a general change should take place in the Excise officers particularly, they never were very well chosen. There were men higher in rank & consideration, who perhaps did not thrust themselves into view—or they might have been named, but such should be sought, & the seekers or office hunters put aside. However as this thing now stands—it is well known the Excise officers in Penna. have made use of the powers the office gave them to its full extent, for Electioneering purposes, & in short, trample on the Republicans—by pressing them, when in their power, & sparing the Federalists, to the risk and perhaps ultimate loss of the public. The Chief of these gentry, it is well known, had much, very much influence, in keeping together the 13 members in the Penna. Senate—who prevented an unanimous vote for Mr. Jefferson.I know (as I was at Lancaster at the time) that he had several of his Deputies collected, who kept a constant watch on the 13—day & night. If they are not turned out, in due time, it must & will discourage hereafter the exertions of the Republicans—this is human nature. No danger will result from putting down one set and gradually raising the other in their stead.
Perhaps I should make an apology, for the liberty I have taken in offering opinions unasked but, I was all my life aukward at that, & compliments, so to you as an old friend & fellow labourer in the same cause, will only simply say to you, who knows me, ⟨th⟩at I have been so long in the habit of doing & saying all in my power, for my Country, and advising my particular friends—it seems to rest on me as a duty to do so.
Our mutual friend Brown, particularly, & some others have been presenting me to the Presidents view, as fit to render some more service. I confess it would gratify me, as much because I have been treated ill, for the sid⟨e⟩ I have espoused, as emolument would be desireable, und⟨er⟩ circumstances—they are not desporate, but employment would be usefull to health a few years—and prevent braking on real Estate for the support & education of a numerous family. I know you will not think these are my motives for the foregoing opinions—I would scorn them if even in absolute want.
Many, (friends too) fear least the President, & heads of Depa⟨rt⟩ments may be too timid, conciliating & temporising—I tell them, I can not believe this—they must & will seek propriety & necessity of decision & firmness, mixed no dou⟨bt⟩ with temper & moderation—at the same time preferring the⟨ir⟩ friends & real supporters of government—to their & its enemies. With sincere esteem & regard I am Dr Sir Your friend & Servant
Wm. Irvine

   RC (DNA: RG 59, ML).

   Henry Miller lost to Gallatin in the Pennsylvania senatorial election of 1793. He was named supervisor of the revenue for Pennsylvania in 1794 and retained the post until June 1801, when Jefferson replaced him with Peter Muhlenberg because of a “money delinquency” (Senate Exec. ProceedingsJournal of the Executive Proceedings of the Senate of the United States of America (3 vols.; Washington, 1828)., 1:164, 404; Jefferson’s list of appointments, 1801–3 [DLC: Jefferson Papers]).

   In 1799–1800 Pennsylvania Republicans and Federalists divided on the method of choosing presidential electors. Federalists, noting the size of Thomas McKean’s gubernatorial victory in 1799, hoped to prevent legislative renewal of the “general ticket” system that promised to give all the state’s electoral votes to Jefferson-Burr in 1800. Retaining a slim majority in the state Senate after the October 1800 elections, Federalists blocked legislation that would have produced the unanimous vote Irvine mentions (Sanford W. Higginbotham, The Keystone in the Democratic Arch: Pennsylvania Politics, 1800–1816 [Harrisburg, Pa., 1952], pp. 28–30).

   Native Virginian John Brown (1757–1837), who served with Irvine and JM in the Continental Congress, 1787–88, was a Kentucky senator at the time (PJMWilliam T. Hutchinson et al., eds., The Papers of James Madison (1st ser., vols. 1–10, Chicago, 1962–77, vols. 11—, Charlottesville, Va., 1977—)., 8:73 n. 1).

   William Irvine was appointed superintendent of military stores by Jefferson and posted at Philadelphia (National Intelligencer, 18 Mar. 1801).


Title: To James Madison from Ralph Bowie, 24 March 1801
From: Bowie, Ralph
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
York, Pennsylva. 24th March 1801.
Perhaps it may be necessary to offer some apology for the liberty I take in now addressing you. It is not to congratulate you on your appointment to an office of high importance to the dignity and happiness of this Country, for I know the Office is honor’d, and I beleive the Interest of our Country will be eminently promoted by your acceptance of it; nor is it directly nor indirectly to ask any kind of favor for myself or any one; but from an honest wish to convey some information, which I think may be useful at this æra, eventful and important as it surely is, to the future Interests of this Country. I happened to be lately in Philadelphia for some days, at and since the time the Presidents Speech was published, and had occasion to hear the Sentiments of a considerable number of persons, (professional men and others,) of as much respectability as any in this State, respecting this elegant address, and they all agreed in the most unequivocal and warm approbation of it. It might indeed naturally be expected that candid men of all descriptions, would cordially approve of Principles so pure and Sentiments so just and liberal, delivered in Language so elegant and impressive. But the most important information I wish to convey is, that I have heard it express’d by a very considerable number of what is called the Fœderal party “that they will most cordially Support Mr. Jefferson’s Administration if it is found to correspond with the principles avowed in his Address.” These declarations I firmly beleive to be Sincere, and as far as my observation and information goes, I beleive it to be the general Sense of the respectable Fœderal Characters throughout this State. What a grand object then opens, for an expanded, just and benevolent mind to accomplish! to put an end to the virulence of Faction, and to reconcile the hostility of party; which have greatly interrupted Social happiness, and even endanger’d the Stability of our Government. What is still dreaded in the new Administration by many of the persons I have mentioned; is a general removal of persons of the fœderal party from office; and the measures to be pursued in this respect, will I beleive be look’d after as in some degree the criterion of the future Administration, and of the approbation & Support to be given to it. The Language of the Presidents address has, with me, such irresistable evidence of coming warm and Sincere from the heart, that I think the apprehension above alluded to, will turn out to be totally groundless. The mercenary and Selfish herd of office hunters will be the only persons dissappointed by this Liberal System of policy, and it is right they Should. Their Zeal and Political attachments have generally been directed to selfish purposes, and many of them even avow it. How much more dignified & happy would the State of Society be, if an application, direct or indirect, for office; were universally considered as mean and improper, to operate as a disqualification, and to issue in certain dissappointment; and it is my Sincere wish, that some approach, may now be made, towards such a System. All good and candid men, I beleive, Sincerely regret the alarming height to which party Spirit has arisen, and will most cordially unite in aiding, Supporting and highly revering, a President, who not only by the most conciliatory and happy expressions but by the most wise, liberal, and just measures, does all in his power to put an end to it. By this means Mr. Jefferson may have it in his power to continue President as long as he is willing to Serve in this arduous and important Station; but this, I beleive, would be a Slight consideration with him, compared to that high Satisfaction, and justly eminent praise, that would accrue, from becoming, at this eventful period, so extensively a peacemaker, and Blessing to his Country. These are the Sentiments of one who never held any office, and who never ask’d nor form’d a wish for any, either in the gift of Magistrate or people; and who has no friend nor connection that can be removed from any office whatever. I therefore take the liberty of addressing these Sentiments, in an unstudied manner, to you, from the honest wish I have already expressed, and from the high esteem and respect I have ever entertained for you, since I had first the honor of your acquaintance.
I beg leave to offer my Respectful and best Compliments to Mrs. Madison, and have the honor to be, with Sincere esteem and respect, Dear Sir Your most Obedient, humble Servant.
Ralph Bowie

   RC (DLC). Docketed by JM.

   Ralph Bowie, a native of Paisley, Scotland, studied law at the University of Edinburgh and immigrated to the U.S. in 1781. He settled in York, Pennsylvania, and became “a lawyer of eminence” (A History of the York County Academy [York, Pa., 1953], p. 47; Pa. Magazine of History and Biography, 50 [1926]: 164).


Title: To James Madison from Tench Coxe, 24 March 1801
From: Coxe, Tench
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Philada. Mar 24. 1801
One of my neighbours when I lived in this place, Mr. Du Ponceau is about to publish a collection of state papers calculated to illustrate some important points of public law. One of them which he shewed me appeared to be so important that I begd a copy, which I might send to Washington. I have the pleasure to inclose it. You will observe it expressly mentions wheat, meat &ca. not to be contraband. This paper appears to merit a place among our public documents.
The federal conversations here contain doubts of the removal of Mr. Pitt, but a letter to a quaker house mentions it in such a way as to gain it full credit. The doubts are founded on its appearance in an opposition print.
The body of information by this vessel is very great. It seems to be an excellent moment to bring our Affairs with England to a conclusion. I have had a good deal of conversation with some of their people, & have tried to dispose them to candid concessions. If the measures of the Commrs. could be taken up now, I am inclined to believe justice could be secured.
I feel great pleasure in the prospect of a fair and judicious administration of the Department over which you are to preside; and shall always have pleasure in contributing to its success. I am with sincere attachment & respect your most obedt. & hble s.
Tench Coxe
I am here only till the 30th. afterwards at my home in Lancaster.

   RC (DLC). Postmarked Washington, 28 Mar., franked “Department of state / Levi Lincoln,” and forwarded to JM. Docketed by JM. Enclosure not found.

   In 1810 Peter Stephen (Pierre Etienne) DuPonceau published his edition of Cornelius van Bijnkershoek (or Bynkershoek), A Treatise on the Law of War … Being the First Book of His “Questiones juris publici” (Philadelphia, 1810). In the preface DuPonceau explained that origins of the book lay with a translation from Bijnkershoek’s Latin which he had made several years earlier for private use. Bijnkershoek noted that by European usage “a neutral may lawfully carry corn to an enemy, except in a case of siege or famine” (p. 73).

   On Anglo-American negotiations under article 6 of the Jay treaty, see Rufus King to JM, 7 Mar. 1801, n. 2.

   In March 1801 Tench Coxe was secretary of the Pennsylvania land office (Jacob E. Cooke, Tench Coxe and the Early Republic [Chapel Hill, N.C., 1978], pp. 361, 393–95).


Title: To James Madison from Anthony New, 24 March 1801
From: New, Anthony
To: Madison, James

⟨De⟩ar Sir
Caroline—March 24th. 1801
After congratulating you on the event of our Election of the President, and your appointment under him, permit me to introduce to your attention, the bearer Mr. Henry C. Coleman, who wishes to be employed in some office under the Government. I have had the pleasure of a long and intimate acquaintance with Mr. Coleman, and can assure you that he is a Gentleman of irreproachable character, and his family among the most respectable, his Father is one of the representatives of our County. He has acted as sherif & surveyor of this county for several years, and his conduct in discharge of those duties, has been marked with delegince, industry, and propriety in every respect, and as far as I was able to observe or learn, his private conduct has been equally regular & praise worthy. Any assistance you may be pleased to afford Mr. Coleman, either by employing him in your own department, or in procuring for him such an appointment as he will accept, shall be considered as an obligation conferred on Dear Sir your mo: Obt. Servt.
Anthony New

   RC (DLC). Docketed by JM.

   Between 1808 and 1809 Henry C. Coleman represented Caroline County in the House of Delegates (Marshall Wingfield, A History of Caroline County, Virginia [Richmond, 1924], p. 41).

   Daniel Coleman represented Caroline County in the House of Delegates from 1800 to 1815 (ibid., p. 40).

   Anthony New (1747–1833), a Caroline County planter, served in Congress from 1793 to 1805. Later he moved to Kentucky and there won election to three more terms (ibid., p. 41).