Econlib

The Library

Other Sites

 Front Page arrow Titles (by Subject) arrow TO JAMES MADISON. mad. mss. - The Writings, vol. 2 (1783-1787)

Return to Title Page for The Writings, vol. 2 (1783-1787)

Search this Title:

Also in the Library:

Subject Area: Political Theory
Topic: The American Revolution and Constitution

TO JAMES MADISON. mad. mss. - James Madison, The Writings, vol. 2 (1783-1787) [1901]

Edition used:

The Writings of James Madison, comprising his Public Papers and his Private Correspondence, including his numerous letters and documents now for the first time printed, ed. Gaillard Hunt (New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1900). Vol. 2.

Part of: The Writings of James Madison, 9 vols.

About Liberty Fund:

Liberty Fund, Inc. is a private, educational foundation established to encourage the study of the ideal of a society of free and responsible individuals.


TO JAMES MADISON.mad. mss.

Richmd Decr 17th 1786.

Hond Sir,—

Yours by Mr. Porter has been handed to me. I have not had an oppy of enquirg of Mr. Anderson concerning the person who is to receive Tobo. for his brother. I mentioned before that the rate of indents here was about a dollar in the pound. Whether I can get the certificates for your taxes I cannot say, nor do I know the rate at which they pass. Mr Jones has returned hither & declines his appt. to Congs. Fresh butter will be very acceptable, the supply sent being already out. No other article of provisions is wanted, as we dine at a Tavern. I propose to go from Fredg. to N. York in the Stage, & shall consequently take no horses with me. When I shall set out I can not decide, but expect to leave this before Xmas sometime. The representation of the State in Congs. during the winter will be so precarious that I shall be able to stay a day or two only in Orange.1 I have other reasons also of a public nature for wishing to hasten my journey, and a private one arising from the probable increase of the cold in case of delay. Tell my brother Ambrose, I wish him to sound Mr. Cowherd as to the possibility of his making a payment before the first of Jany instead of the time fixed. I will abate a reasonable interest, and be obliged to him into the bargain. My affections to the family. Yr. dutiful son

Js. Madison Jr.

I wish my cloathes so far as they may require little amendmts to be put in order before I get to Orange, that I may not be detained on that score.

[1 ]“The truth is, we have not a government to wield and correct. . . . We have only four States now on the floor.”—Carrington to Madison, from Congress, December 18, 1786. Mad. MSS.