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The writings of James Madison,

comprising his public papers and his private correspondence, including numerous letters and documents now for the first time printed.
 
 
 
 
 

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TO WILLIAM EUSTIS.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

TO WILLIAM EUSTIS.[62]

MAD. MSS.

Dear Sir,—I have recd. your letter of yesterday
with the impressions wch. could not but result from
your purpose of retiring from an Office so nearly
related to that which has been entrusted to me, in
which your services have been coeval with mine, &
in which I have witnessed the zeal and constancy of
your exertions for the public good under difficulties
peculiarly arduous & trying. In bearing this testimony,


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Page 233
I indulge my own feelings as well as pay a
tribute which is so justly due.

I take the liberty of adding a hope that it will not
be inconsistent with your arrangements, to continue
your official attentions untill they can be replaced by
a successor.

I thank you for the kind wishes you have expressed,
and I offer the best of mine for your welfare & happiness.

 
[62]

Eustis's retirement as Secretary of War was probably voluntary, he
himself recognizing that Congress had no confidence in his ability to
cope with the situation. Monroe was appointed Secretary of War
pro tempore January 1, 1813, and served till February 4.