To James Madison from Thomas Newton, 29 November 1806
From Thomas Newton
Collrs. Office Norfolk Novr. 29—1806
Sir
Above is a Copy of a letter I recd from Coll Hamilton respectg Wm. Sweatland & Wm Whitfield. The latter I was informd of and apply’d for his release, which I do on every occasion & which I hope will meet yr approbation. I expect the Brittish Ships have taken Hampton roads for their winters station & occasionally to cruise out &C I am very respectfully Yr. Obt. Servt.
Thos Newton
Collr
RC (DNA: RG 59, ML). Cover docketed by Wagner. Appended to a copy of John Hamilton to Newton, 29 Nov. 1806 (1 p.). Responding to Newton’s 26 November letter, Hamilton informed Newton that U.S. seaman Sweatland was registered as a volunteer aboard the British ship Bellona and had “received the kings bounty,” so the commander could not discharge him. Hamilton also indicated that he had written to the commander of the British frigate Melampus about Whitfield but noted that the ship had sailed before the letter reached Hampton Roads and Hamilton consequently could give no answer; he stated that he would renew his inquiry when the ship returned.