Madison, James, as Secretary of State

Autograph letter signed, 2 pages (9 7/8 x 7 7/8 in.; 250 x 200 mm), Washington, 25 June 1801, to Elbridge Gerry; integral address leaf  with free frank; seal tear repaired, page fold repaired. Folding case covered with brown Dutch combed marbled paper, brown morocco spine with red morocco inlays on the upper joint, red morocco spine labels.

"Measures best calculated for  the permanent security of constitutional liberty . . ." Early in the Jefferson administration, Madison addresses the patriot who would serve as his Vice President when he ascended to the Presidency in 1809. Madison provides news of world affairs after first discussing the application of one Mr. Conan for a consular position, of which Gerry appears to have been an active supporter. He writes: "I shall not fail to keep the President in mind of Mr. Conan, as a candidate for the Posts you mention . . . at the same time . . . there are so many applications . . . for the same consulates that it would not be candid to hold out much expectation."

Madison is pleased to hear Gerry supports Jefferson's measures. He elaborates: " The adjustment of the policy concerning removals to the contrary feelings prevailing on that subject is found a more difficult  task than to decide on what ought to be much more an object of the public solicitude, the measures best calculated for the permanent security of constitutional liberty, and the general prosperity & happiness of the Country."

Madison closes his letter with a morsel of intelligence not in the newspapers: ". . . the relapse of the King of G.B. into his mental imbecility. It is kept as much as possible a secret, but the fact is certain; nor is it much expected that he will ever be effectually cured of the malady. This incident will mingle no inconsiderable influence with other occurrences in directing the politics of Europe . . . ."