Madison, James (1751-1836) to Thomas Nelson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01870 Author/Creator: Madison, James (1751-1836) Place Written: Washington, D.C. Type: Letter signed Date: 19 October 1802 Pagination: 3 p. : address : docket : free frank; 25 x 21 cm. Order a Copy
Circular letter in which Secretary of State Madison, on behalf of President Jefferson, requests district attorneys forward explanations of how state laws apply to seamen deserting from foreign vessels. Seeks Nelson's reply on the laws of Virginia. A draft of Nelson's autograph response appears on pages 2-3, dated 3 November 1802 at Yorktown, Virginia.
Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
Circular Letter to Federal District Attorneys Sec.
Sir, Department of State. October 19th. 1802.
It being occasionally necessary to answer representations and complaints to this Department on the subject of seamen deserting from foreign vessels within the U. States, the President thinks it proper that the District Attorneys for the United States, should report whether any or what provision may exist in the laws of the <sta>tes respectively, by which deserters in such cases may be <restore>d.1 You will please therefore to transmit this information with respect to the laws of the State of Virginia' as soon as may be convenient.' I am respectfully, sir, Your very Obedt. Servt.
James Madison
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