DARTMOOR PRISON, March 28, 1815. To His Excellency JAMES MADISON. _Honored and respected Sir_: From the general philanthrophy of your character, and liberality of sentiment, no apology is deemed requisite for introducing to your particular notice, and that of the nation at large, Dr. George Magrath, principal of the medical department for the American prisoners of war in England. It is impossible for us to speak of this gentleman in terms that will do justice to his superior professional science, brilliant talents, the exemplary virtues of his heart, the urbanity and easy accessibility of his manners, his unremitting assiduities and unwearied exertions, in combatting a succession of diseases of the most exasperated and malignant character, which prevailed among the prisoners. At the first forming of the depot, _pneumonia_, in its worst form, generally prevailed, which degenerated into a still more dangerous species of pulmonic complaint, nearly _peripneumonia notha_, which was rapidly succeeded by a putrid kind of measles, and that destructive malady followed by a malignant small-pox, which spread rapidly; dismay and apprehension were painted on every countenance. Dr. Magrath’s time and attention were fully occupied in the hospital, and in vaccinating the prisoners. From his unprecedented exertions in an inclement season of the year, in a most inhospitable clime, his health became seriously impaired; but totally regardless of himself, he persevered in his unparalleled exertions, and from his superior knowledge in the healing art, was the means, under divine Providence, of rescuing many citizens of the United States from the fast approximating embraces of death. This malignant species of small-pox, unknown to the generality of professional gentlemen, appeared in other places, and a far greater number fell victims, in proportion to the cases at the place. We therefore trust, that some distinguished mark of the nation’s gratitude will be conferred on Dr. Magrath; for this truly great man’s exertions in the cause of suffering humanity, have been rarely equalled, but never excelled. We have the honor to remain, with sentiments of respect and attachment, your excellency’s obedient humble servants,