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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 DANIEL D. TOMPKINS.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

TO DANIEL D. TOMPKINS.[93]

MAD. MSS.

Dr Sir,—Mr. Monroe having just been appointed
Secy. of War it is necessary to provide for the vacancy
resulting in the Dept. of State. Wishing to avail the
U. S. of yr. talents & services, I take the liberty of


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requesting permission to name you to the Senate as
his successor. I am aware of the very important
station, from which their concurrence will withdraw
you; but I justify my personal wish to see you a
member of the Ex. family, by my persuasion, that
the one contemplated will afford still greater scope
for the benefits wch. you have given so many proofs
of your disposition to render to our Country. I need
not suggest that as early an answer as you can make
convenient will be acceptable

 
[93]

Tompkins was at that time Governor of New York. Upon Armstrong's
dismissal Monroe became Secretary of War ad interim from
August 30th to September 30th. He was nominated for the office
of Secretary of War September 26th, confirmed September 27th,
qualified October 1st, 1814, and served to February 28th, 1815, when
he was again commissioned Secretary of State. Mosher's Executive
Register of the United States
, 83, 84. Tompkins declined on the ground
that he was more useful in his present situation. Madison to Tompkins,
October 18, 1814.—Mad. MSS.