John Quinoy Adams to John Nicholson, April 17, 1820

Mr. Adams, Secretary of State, to Mr. Nicholson, United States marshal.

Sir: Since the date of the pardon and reprieves, which were forwarded to you on the 3d instant, in the cases of John Trick hart, Peter Morel, and others, who *are under sentence of death for piracy, the President has understood that, according to usage in the State of Louisiana, when capital punishment is to be inflicted, death-warrants are necessary; and, in conformity with that practice, I inclose herewith two death-warrants, respectively enjoining the execution of the sentence passed upon John Derfarge and Robert Johnston by the district court of the United States for your district. [138]

Please to acknowledge the receipt of this letter and its accompanying inclosures.

I am, &c.,