To John Adams from James Madison

I duly received your letter of the 21st ulto. inclosing one to yourself from Mr. Malcom. I return the latter as desired. Mr. Malcom was not in time to be taken into consideration along with others having the same objects with him. I need not say that if it had been otherwise, and his comparative qualifications had entitled him to the appointment, I should have felt a pleasure in knowing that the choice coincided with your personal sentiments.

I can not avail myself, of the indulgent exemption you offer me, so far as not to express my entire assent to the merits of our common friend Mr. Gerry. Though not acquainted with him in the first stages of his public life and less so than you have been, with the latter periods of his services to his Country, I have witnessed enough of his conduct on important and arduous occasions, to regard him as among our Patriots most distinguished for integrity, ability, and zeal for the rights and honor of the American Nation; whilst his private character is equally adorned by the virtues belonging to it.

Be pleased Sir to accept assurances / of my high esteem and respectful regards.