Monroe, James, 1758-1831 to unknown

Written by Monroe as President to an unknown recipient. He is anxious about Samuel Gouverneur, his son-in-law and private secretary, and his child, perhaps because they are ill. Sent down letters with John Coburn because there was no mail going out that day. Requested him to bring back information. He hopes the recipient will help him set up an economic plan to help his family. Expresses annoyance with William Seaton, a co-editor of the Washington Intelligencer, who was talking freely about Monroe. Wants to help Seaton, but claims Seaton needs to help him in return by being more discreet and diligent. He hopes the recipient can drop some subtle comments to get Monroe's annoyance across. Extended postscript goes into the possibility of eliminating someone from his business pursuits, perhaps Seaton, but it is not clear. Says if they must part, the recipient is authorized to sever the connection and that it would be best to do it earlier than later. Says if he is let go that the recipient must get the account book or Monroe will never see it again. Says to use discretion and that a severance will disarm this person from injuring him.