MADISON, JAMES. Autograph Letter Signed, to Representative Stephen Van Rensselaer ("Dear Sir"), expressing appreciation on the part of the public for his survey work and expecting that it will prove useful. 1 page, 4to; brittling overall, short closed separation at vertical fold through signature (without loss) repaired verso, chipping at right edge with minor loss, moderate staining at upper right touching text (but still legible). Montpelier, 14 March 1822 "I received . . . the copy of the Geological and Agricultural Survey which you were so obliging as to send me . . . .
"I can not bestow more commendation than is due to the liberal patronage to which the public owe the work. Such surveys will not only contribute handfuls of valuable facts towards a Geological Theory; but will more & more unveil the subterraneous treasures of the Country: and as far as Agricultural & Statistical researches may be embraced, will be useful in those views also."
The work under discussion in this letter is likely an early version or part of A Geological and Agricultural Survey of the District Adjoining the Erie Canal, in the State of New York by Amos Eaton and Stephen Van Rensselaer, published privately in 1824.