James Madison Papers

To James Madison from DeWitt Clinton, 3 September 1801

From DeWitt Clinton

private

New York 3 september 1801.

Sir

You will pardon the liberty I take when you know that it proceeds from a Sincere desire to promote the popularity and stability of Mr. Jefferson’s administration. I do not hesitate to say that I consider its success as intimately connected with the destiny of republican governm’t and that heretofore it has received the unqualified approbation of the real republican party of this State.

The interest which has been made & is now making to obtain the naval office of this City for M. L. Davis1 has appeared in a very extraordinary light to many reflecting men of the republican party; and when viewed in connection with other appointments recommended by the same person who is now so extremely anxious for Davis and the ambitious plans of that person which have hitherto been unfolded and are now daily unfolding, would in my opinion render this appointment very injurious to the republican interest of this State.

It is unnecessary to assure you that I do not wish the appointment for myself or any of my friends. My opinion is that it would be most advisable for the President not to appoint this applicant at all and to wait for further information for a suitable successor. I have the honor to be With the highest consideration Your most Obedt servt

DeWitt Clinton

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