Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 25 March 1799
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Mount Vernon 25th Mar: 1799
Dear Sir

Your letter of the 14th. instant, with its enclosures, came to hand by the last Post.
In the present State of the Army (or more properly the Embryo of one, for I do not perceive from any thing that has come to my knowledge that we are likely to move beyond this) and until the Augmented force shall have been Recruited, Assembled and in the Field, the residence of the Paymaster Genl (I did not know there was one until your letter announced it) will be found most eligable at the seat of the General Government; and you will please to give such Orders respecting it, as you shall think proper, for I am unwilling to issue any.
Under this Cover, you will find a letter which I have just received from Colo. Hamtramck, with a short acknowledgement of its receipt; which you will be so good as to forward with your dispatches for the Western Army.
With very great esteem & regd.   I am Dr Sir   Yr. Most Obedt. Servt.

Go: Washington
Majr. Genl. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 26 March 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War department 26. March 1799
Sir

I have received this morning your letter of the 23d inst.
I shall write to day or to morrow to a Mr. Timothy Phelps a Merchant in New Haven Connecticut to know whether he will undertake to store and deliver the Cloathing to the Quarter Master for the 1. and 2d. District formed in that State and if he will I shall send the apportioned quantity to him as soon as it comes into the public store.
I shall also send the required quantity of Cloathing for the station within the State of New York to Colonel Ebenezer Stevens. That for New Jersey Pennsylvania and Delaware, will be forwarded from Philadelphia by the Quarter Master General to the several Stations.
If you will advert to the Purveyor’s letter to me of the 12. March infr. a copy of which you have been furnished with it will be perceived that there are no Woolen Overalls stated in it.
The money for the bounties for the recruiting service will be forwarded to the provisional regimental paymasters as soon as possible after they shall have been designated.
Your idea respecting indiscriminate enlistment as I now understand it is conformable to the practice we have pursued. You will of course cause it to be adopted.
I shall direct the Adjutant General to enter upon his duties and transmit the letter to him perhaps by next post.
With great respect   I am Sir   Your obed servant

James McHenry
General Hamilton


Title: Circular to the Commandants of Regiments, 27 March[–17 April] 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commandants of Regiments

New York March 27th [–April 17] 1799
Sir

I send you herewith thirteen Setts of Rules and Regulations for the Recruiting service, one for each field Officer, and one for each Captain of a company. You will carefully fill the blanks according to the example in No 1.
The sooner you distribute these, the better, that the Officers may, by studying them, be prepared to enter upon the business of recruiting when the order shall be given for it which it is hoped will not be long delayed.
With great consideration   I am Sir   Your obed Servt:

A Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 27 March 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War Department, March 27th: 1799.
Sir,
Inclosed is a letter to the Adjutant General informing him that his presence and aid is considered essential to the due performance of the duties to be fulfilled by you, and placing him under your Orders.
On looking over your letter of the 23rd: and my reply, I find I have omitted to approve formally, the numbers which you proposed to designate the new Regiments by. The arrangement of the Regiments and their numbers being approved of, you will give the necessary information to their respective Commandants.
I have the honor to be,   with great respect, Sir,   Your obedt: servant

James McHenry
Major General Alexander Hamilton.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 27 March 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Private
New York March 27. 1799.
Dr. Sir

At length we are on the point of commencing the recruiting service in five of the States, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pensylvania & Delaware. It is hoped, that it will not be long in successively embracing the others, where officers have been appointed. But in our affairs ’till a thing is actually begun, there is no calculating the delays which may ensue. You have been informed that the recruiting service has been put under my direction, but for many matters of detail I must go to the Secretary for a sanction and it is not always that it is rapidly obtained. Things however are at last getting into such a state that this business may be expected to progress without interruption.
The letter some time since sent you for General Lee was intended to be left open. It respected the division of Virginia into four districts and Twenty sub-districts or company rendezvouses, designating a place in each for the head Quarters of the rendezvous. I have as yet had no acknowlegement of it.
Before General Morgan left Philadelphia, I got him to give me a plan. Inclosed is a copy. If you think a better arrangement can be made, shall I ask the favour of you to have it done. For I cannot now rely on the success of my resort to General Lee in any reasonable time.
Very respectfully & Affecly   I have the honor to be   Sir   Your obed serv

A Hamilton

Will you have the goodness to put the letters herewith in train to reach their destination with certainty. They are open that you may perceive their object.

General Washington


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 29 March 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Private
Philada. 29 March 1799
Dear Sir

I have to acknowledge your private letters under date of the 14, 18 & 19th inst.
All I intended by the observation in my public letter relative to the regimental Paymasters &c. was, that as these were to be Lieutenants, and the 3 additional lieutenants described in the late law, under these characters, had not been, it was proposed they should be appointed. I have no objection to the custom which has prevailed for selecting pay-masters from the body of Lieutenants.
You will see by the law that Regimental paymasters must give bond in the sum of 5000 Dollars, with one or more sufficient securities, for the faithful discharge of the duties of ⟨their⟩ office. You will of course take measures to have this done, and the bonds transmitted to me as soon as possible, that there may exist no reason for delaying the transmission to them of the recruiting money. The same operation must be performed by the pay-masters on the old establishment respecting which you will also take order.
I like the alternative suggested in the oath of Inlistment, as to the term of service viz. “for and during the continuance &c, or for the term of 5 years at the option of the U S.” and yet I foresee that such a measure might excite clamours, and be misunderstood.
It may be thought, that by this option, the Executive would actually raise 13,000 men for 5 years certain, whereas the law enables it to raise about 5000 only for this period. That consequently this option would be an essential departure from law.
The saving to the public, in case of the new army being soon disbanded by filling up the old army to its compliment with the soldiers would be wholly overlooked.
Upon the whole it will be perhaps the safest course to follow the letter of the law in the articles of inlistment. It strikes me besides as it seems to have done you, that men will more readily inlist for the casual duration, than for the known term of five years.
You sent but one letter for General Wilkinson. I have had advice of its arrival at Knoxville in Tenessee and of its having been sent forward by express.
I have never observed in Elliot any strong desire of Independence or disregard to orders. Perhaps his being of the Court Martial prevented him from answering your letter.
I intended that you would put every thing in train for commencing the recruiting service the moment you received an account that a sufficiency of cloathing was ready for the purpose, and that, if you thought proper, you might direct inlistments in a certain way to be made in the mean while.
I have now noticed most if not all the points contained in your private letters and I believe most all your ideas in any public ones.
The regular troops ordered to the scene of Insurrection have all reached their first points of destination, except the company from this place which is to march when ordered by Gen. Macpherson. The general received his instructions on Monday last and every thing dependent on me has been done which regards the expedition. It seems that the adjutant general from this State has not yet been able to furnish him with certain necessary returns. Is it not remarkable that however slightly the present Governor of Pennsylvania comes in contact with insurrection that delay becomes unavoidable in quelling it.
yours sincerely and affectionately

James McHenry
Majr Gen Alex Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 30 March 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War DepartmentMarch 30th: 1799
Sir,
I have directed two parcels of Cloathing nearly equal to your requisition of the 19th. Instant, for the Connecticut and New York Recruiting Districts, one addressed to Col. Stevens, the other to Timothy Phelps Esq of New Haven, with directions that they shall be delivered and forwarded agreeably to your Orders.
Considering that April is a good month for Recruiting, and that circumstances render it indispensable that no time should be lost to put the recruiting business in motion, I believe it will be proper that you should issue your Orders for this purpose without too strict an adherence to the System. If therefore you will designate the persons to whom I may send money it shall be immediately transmitted to them.
Having withdrawn Captain Shoemaker from Frederick Town in Maryland (to the scene of Insurrection) who has recruited a very fine Company in that quarter, I would propose to you to have his place forthwith supplied by Captain Valentine Brothers who lives in Frederick Town, is greatly respected by the Dutch and possesses a very extensive influence. Besides his being the fittest person to employ at Frederick Town, the measure will be attended with very good effects. He can quickly raise a Company there.
Captain Brothers is entitled, as far as my information extends, to stand first Captain in his Regiment, and should no contravening information be presented to you I wish it to be kept in mind in the final arrangement of relative rank.
Let, I pray you, all those who can be immediately employed in the Recruiting Service, commence their operations forthwith.
It is truly unfortunate that preparatory arrangements only can be made for enlisting in North Carolina. Upon the 16th: instant I received from Genl. pinckney, a list, (of which the enclosed is a copy) of Officers proposed to be appointed from that State. On the same day I transmitted the list to the president as mentioned in my letter of the 21st: requesting authority to announce to the persons therein named, their appointments. I do not doubt but that I shall receive the authority desired. You will judge upon this ground how far it will be prudent to proceed. I am extremely anxious that every thing may be done upon our part respecting this Service, which can be attempted with propriety.
I have just received your letter of the 28th: The recruiting Districts presented to me in this, as well in your letter of the 16th: instant is approved of. It will not be necessary in future to transmit the Districts to me for any other purpose than to inform me of the different places of Rendezvous and where articles are to be procured or sent.
I have the honor to be   with great respect, Sir,   Your obedt: servant,

James McHenry
Major GeneralAlexander Hamilton.


Title: Circular to the Commandants of Regiments, 31 March 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commandants of Regiments

New York March 31 1799
Sir

[The State of  is to form a Circle and to be divided into  Districts  and sub-districts according to the plan inclosed.] The recruiting service within this circle is to be for your Regiment and under your superintendence. You will assign each of the Majors of your Regiment to a district and each of your Captains to a subdistrict. He will take to his aid such of his Lieutenants as shall not have been appointed to other duties. The particular Town specified as the rendezvous of each subdistrict, you will understand to be the point to which the recruits for each company are to be sent as soon as possible, there to be cloathed and subsisted until they shall march for their Regimental rendezvous; which is to be . Here will be your station and that of your Regimental staff.
The Pay Master will act as Regimental Clothier. He will distribute the bounty money among the Captains or Officers superintending the subdistricts according to the orders which you shall give—in which you will be regulated by the progress of the recruiting service in each. The same course must be pursued as to Cloathing.
The number by which your Regiment is to be distinguished is [five]. This has been determined by a Geographical rule. The same number will also distinguish the Circle under your direction.
When you have made the Nomination of your Pay Master in the mode pointed out let him immediately give bond to the UStates with two sureties whom you shall think sufficient and send it to me with your opinion to be submitted to the Secy at War. The doing of this at once will accelerate the Recruiting service [which for your Regiment only waits for the appointment of the Regimental Staff. The nominations being made and forwarded, as soon as you shall be informed that money and cloathing are furnished; (which it is expected will be immediately done,) You will begin the recruiting for your Regiment without waiting for a further order.]
With great consideration   I am Sir   Yr. Obed servant

Postscript
Connecticut
It is expected that the bounty money & Cloathing for your Regiment will be sent to Mr. Timothy Phelps Merchant, New Haven to be delivered to your Pay Master upon your order.
Same NY except that Col E Stevens, NY, to be substituted.
N Jersey & Pensylvania
Let the Person designated as Pay Master immediately proceed to Philadelphia to receive the bounty money & Cloathing for your Regiment.
Commenandent Massachusettes
The State of Massachusetts is to form four Districts and Twenty Subdistricts according to the plan enclosed. The districts Numbered 1. 2 are to compose a circle; and
3. 4
Same Virginia
N Hampshire &c
The States of New Hampshire Vermont & Rhode Island are to form one Circle and be divided into two Districts & twenty Subdistricts according to the inclosed Plan.
N Jersey
The State of New Jersey is to form a Circle & to be divided into two Districts and six subdistricts according to the Plan inclosed to which is to be added the State of Delaware forming itself a district and having for the present no subdistrict. The Recruiting service within this Circle is to be for your Regiment and under your superintendence which is likewise to embrace three of the subdistricts in Pensylvania to be indicated by Col Moore as those within which the captains for your Regiment can be employed in recruiting with most convenience to general arrangement for Pensylvania which is referred to him. These three subdistricts will be annexed by you to the superintendence of the Major who shall be assigned to the Western District of New Jersey. You will accordingly assign &c.

The state of Pensylvania is to form a Circle and to be divided into three districts and thirteen subdistricts according to the plan inclosed. The Recruiting service within this Circle is to be for your Regiment and under your superintendence with the exception of three of the subdistricts which you will assign to the three captains who are to form part of Col Ogdens Regiment, namely
The trouble of making this assignment to them falls to you, from its being a part of the general arrangement for Pensylvania. You will therefore assign each of your Majors to a district and each of your Captains to a subdistrict—having regard to those local considerations which promise most success to particular Officers; and after doing this, you will, with an eye to the same considerations, assign the remaining three subdistricts to the three Captains above named, and you will forthwith communicate to me the result. These three subdistricts you will consider as excepted out of your Circle and annexed to that of Col Ogden.
The particular Town &c
Added to the letter of Nathan Rice Esqr.
P.S. I had hoped that before this letter was sent I should have been provided with the Definitive arrangement of the State into Districts and Subdistricts. I conclude to send this letter as it regards other objects. I am anxious as soon as possible to be possessed of the result of your deliberations on this point and of the names of your Regimental Staff.
Added to the letter of Josias C. Hall Esqr.
P.S. I am much disappointed in not being inabled by your reply to communicate the arrangement as adopted for districts and Subdistricts. I much urge that it be speedily forwarded & the names of your Regimental Staff.

Regimental Rendezvousses

1–2
Massachusetts
Somerset

3–4
ditto
Berwick

Maryland
Havre de Grace

1–2
Virginia
Richmond

3–4
ditto
Alexandria

Added to all the letters—If any considerations which do not occur should render the place named as your Regimental Rendezvous inconvenient, you will please to mention them.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 2 April 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War department 2d. April 1799
Sir

It being out of my power to send you copies of, you will herewith receive the following original letters from Brig. Gen. Wilkinson, which you will be pleased to return after taking such extracts from them as you may judge necessary.

Letter
 No. 1
dated
  6 Decr. 1798

Do
 No. 2
do
 10 Jany. 1799

Do
 No. 3
Do
 31 Jany.

Do
 No. 4
Do
  2 Feby.

 No. 5
Circular letter to the officers commanding posts

 No. 6
Correspondence with Govr. Gayoso

 No. 7
Papers refered to in letter Jany 1799.

I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect   Your Obedient and Hum. Servt.
James McHenry
Major Gen. Alexr. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John J. U. Rivardi, 3 April 1799
From: Rivardi, John J. U.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Niagara [New York] April 3, 1799. Discusses the weaknesses of United States forts on the Great Lakes. Encloses “the Plan of Detroit.” Complains about contractors buying too much flour and about delays in settling quartermaster’s accounts and lack of reinforcements. States: “Sir John Johnson having politely offered me To Take charge of whatever I Should want to Send To Detroit & Mackinac, I gave him the letters which you directed me To forward To the Officers commanding these two Posts. Major Burbeck will receive his three Months earlier than he could by any other Conveyance.…” Cites other examples of friendship and cooperation between the British and American garrisons at Niagara and recommends Enoch Humphrey as a cadet. States: “I was interrupted by Mr. Burke great Vicar of Canada & a man perfectly acquainted with this Country, he observed To me during diner that he firmly believes the whole of the rumor among the Indians To have arisen from the Secret Machinations of Some Individuals employed in that Department, because an Indian War would make their fortunes.…” Complains that James McHenry does nothing to investigate Captain James Bruff’s charges and states that he wishes to press charges against Bruff.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 3 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Private
New York April 3. 1799
Dr. Sir

Agreeably to your letter of the 25th of March, which with its inclosures have come duly to hand, I have written to the Pay Master General to repair to the Seat of Government. Your letter to Col Hamtranck goes by the same opportunity.
The arrangements for beginning to recruit in the States of Connecticut, New York, Jersey, Pensylvania and Delaware, are so mature that it will be very extraordinary if the business does not actually commence in a week. Nothing in my power will be omitted to press it forward in the other States. The prospect of success in the middle and Northern States is not bad.
I get nothing very precise about the Insurrection. But every thing continues to wear the character of feebleness, in respect to the measures for suppressing it. And though I hope it will not become very serious, yet it will not be astonishing, if from mismanagement, it should become more troublesome than it need to be.
With greatest respect & attachment   I remain Dr Sir   Your obed ser
A Hamilton
General Washington


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Ezra L’Hommedieu, 4 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: L’Hommedieu, Ezra

New York April 41799
Sir

As the holder, I am to inform you that Mr. David Gelston has refused payment of his promissory note dated the first of August last for Eight thousand Dollars payable in Eight Months to you and indorsed by you, and consequently that I look to you for the payment of the same.
Mr. Gelston has however deposited with Mr. Wilkes 4000 Dollars on account of the Note, which with your consent I will receive holding you responsible for the remainder.
Knowing that this engagement has been entered into to oblige Col Burr, I have every disposition to accomodate the parties which can be shewn without releasing either.
With esteem I am Sir   Your obed servt
A Hamilton
Ezra L’Hommedieu Esq


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 4 April 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War Department 4th. April 1799.
Sir

I have been honored with your letter of the 2d. Inst.
Inclosed is a copy of my letter to Mr. J. Huntington of New London, to the purpose of entering into contracts, to supply rations &c. for the troops to be raised in Connecticut. Similar letters have been sent to J. Jackson Supervisor at Boston for Massachusetts, to Jacob Sheaff at Portsmouth for New Hampshire, and one inclosed to Mr. Elijah Paine, who is requested to direct it to a proper person to form Contracts for Vermont; also to  of Wilmington for Delaware; to Colonel Carrington for Virginia, and to J. Mc.Rea of Wilmington for North Carolina.
For the remaining states, contracts have been formed. The Contractors are as follow:

For New York
William Colefax,

For Pennsylvania
Michl. Gunkle and

Henry Schriver,

For Maryland
James Baker,

For South Carolina
Dodridge Croker,

For Georgia
Solomon Ellis,

For Tenessee and Kentucky
James OHara.

If I comprehend your idea relative to the cloathing, whatever quantity is wanted for a Regiment or Regimental circle are to be deposited with the proper Officer of the Regimental Staff; which officer, you consider, should be the pay-master, and the articles to be distributed by him among the companies.
It strikes me, that during the recruiting service, and before the Companies are brought to some one point, this mode you propose, might be attended with not only an increase of expence, but also of delay. The Regiment, for example, which Lieutenant Colonel Ogden is to command, has ten recruiting rendezvouses, as follow, Hackinsack, Elizabeth Town, New Brunswick, Trenton, Burlington and Woodbury in Jersey, three others in Pennsylvania & Delaware. Should the whole of the cloathing for a Regiment be sent to any one place in Jersey for subsequent distribution by the pay-master, the requisite share of them must be brought back from thence, to supply the places of rendezvous in Pennsylvania and Delaware.
To prevent this expence, you will perhaps think it proper, that the pay-master of each Regiment, if charged with this duty, shall make requisitions for the Cloathing required for his Regiment or circle, and point out the parcels to be destined for each company or rendezvous, to be transported by the quarter master General, if drawn from Philadelphia, or agent of the War Department, as the case may be; the pay-master to take receipts from the companies officers for the quantity sent to them respectively.
It is not perceived, that this mode will break in upon the accountability of the pay-master, who will be charged with the cloathing, on the books of the Superintendent.
I have not been furnished with the names of any of the Regimental pay-masters.
With great respect I have the Honor to be   Sir   Your Obedient and Huml. Servant
James McHenry
Major General Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Timothy Pickering, 4 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Pickering, Timothy

New York April 4. 1799
Sir

I observe by the Boston papers, that some dispatches have been lately found on board a vessel from this port which was carried into Gibralter. The late consul here, Mr. Rosier, has just been with me and suggested that the dispatches are probably from him and allude (but without naming me) to some conversations with me relating to his being received as Consul General some time last Winter. Being so much engaged as not to have been able conveniently to call upon you, I mentioned the subject while in Philadelphia to Mr Wolcott, and was informed by him that Mr Rosier could not then be received. In the interviews respecting this object some general conversation took place about the state of things between the two Countries. Mr Rosier will write to you offering the means of deciphering his dispatches, which he assures me with every appearance of candour will be found to contain nothing unfriendly to this Country. It is his wish in the meantime that no idea may circulate of his being a Conspirator.
With great regard Dr Sir   Your obed servt.
A Hamilton
Timothy Pickering Esqr.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Ebenezer Stevens, 4 April 1799
From: Stevens, Ebenezer
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, April 4, 1799. “I have made out Mr Mangin acct of what I think he ought to be paid for his services & I wish you to examine it, & if you approve of the Same, you will give me an order to pay him.… I have not made the price, it is what the military Committee agreed to give him.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 8 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York, April 8, 1799. “… It has been suggested … that an advance of money to the officers on account of their pay is necessary. All of them have to incur considerable expence for their equipment and many of them cannot afford it out of their own funds. I agree in the necessity of the measure. The advance ought not to be less than four Months pay and ought to extend to all the additional Regiments. The use of music is very conducive to the success of the recruiting service. It is therefore desireable that an adequate number of drums and fifes should accompany the Cloathing. Let me now urge that not a moment may be lost in furnishing the money cloathing and instruments of music—and that the measures for this purpose may embrace all the States from New Hampshire to Virginia inclusively. By the time it can be effected other preparatory steps will be matured in all of them. You have only sent me 90 copies of the recruiting instructions. I ought to have at least 20 to a Regiment. I pray you to forward to me the residue without delay. It will be useful to put them in Packages of Twenty franked by you.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 8 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York April 8 1799
Sir

Nothing can be more desireable than a well digested plan for connecting the different parts of our Military System, in regard to the procuring and issuing of supplies. I send you the outline of a scheme for that purpose. It is important that this, or a substitute more eligible, should be without delay established. It is particularly essential that the channels through which supplies are to pass to the troops and the modes of application for these should be designated and understood. The plan now transmitted embraces this among other objects. I beg leave to urge a speedy attention to the subject.
With great respect & consideration   I have the honor to be Sir Your Obed servant
The Secretary of War


Title: Enclosure: Plan for the Providing and Issuing of Military Supplies, [8 April 1799]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

The business of providing shall constitute one distinct branch of service that of issuing another.
The Purveyor shall be charged with the procuring of all supplies except those for which contracts are made directly by the Chiefs of the Treasury or War Departments.
The Superintendant of Military Stores shall superintend the issues of all supplies.
The Purveyor shall have near him three Assistants, by whatsoever Denomination, one in relation to the supplies which according to past practice fall within the department of Quarter Master General including the means of Transportation—another in relation to the supplies which according to past practice fall within the Department of Commissary of Provisions with the Addition of Medical & Hospital a third in relation to the supplies which according to past practice fall within the Department of Commissary of Military Stores with the addition of cloathing. The person who now resides at the seat of Government in quality of Qr. Master General may perform the duty of the first mentioned Assistant.
The Superintendant of Military Stores shall have near him three principal Clerks, each of whom particularly to superintend the issues in one of the abovementioned branches; aided by as many store keepers as may be necessary.
The Purveyor shall have with each army a Deputy to be charged with the procuring of all supplies necessary to be procured with the army.
The Superintendant shall have with each army a Deputy who shall have under him three Assistants, one to superintend the issues of Quarter Master’s Stores another to superintend the issues of Provisions—a third to superintend the issue of other Military Stores & Cloathing.
The Purveyor & his Deputies shall deliver over all that they provide to the Superintendant and his Deputies. The actual custody and issuing of articles to be with the Store Keepers pursuant to the written orders of the Superintendant and his deputies. The Quarter Master General with the Main Army & the Deputy Quarter Master General with each separate army shall have the superintendance of the Deputies of the Purveyor with the respective armies; to see that they do their duty according to their instructions from the heads of their respective Branches & the orders of the Commander of the Army.
The Inspector General with the main army & the Deputy Inspector General with each separate army shall have a like charge of the Deputies of the Superintendant of Military Stores.
These Officers to serve as checks upon the respective Deputies & points of Union between the Military & Civil authorities.
The Pay Master General shall reside at the seat of Government and be the fountain of all issues of money for the pay bounty &c. of the Troops.
He shall have a Deputy with each army who shall be charged with the issuing of all monies to the Regimental Pay Masters.
The Quarter Master of each Division shall be charged with the procuring of all supplies which may be occasionally necessary for such division in addition to the general Supplies.
The Quarter Master of each Brigade shall be charged with the like duty, when the brigade is detached only, and always with the superintendence of the issues for such brigade and consequently with the direction of all brigade Officers having the custody of supplies.
Each Brigade shall have a Commissary of Forage and another of Provisions to be charged respectively with the issues of those articles.
The Regimental Quarter Master shall receive and issue all supplies for the Regiment except of money or cloathing.
The Regimental Pay Master shall receive and issue all supplies of money and cloathing for the Regiment.
The Regimental Pay Master shall issue monies for the recruiting service to the Company Officers charged with that service, pursuant to Warrants from the commanding Officer of the Regiment or from the superintending officer of the recruiting service for such Regiment taking from each an Accountable receipt.

Whenever it is practicable, he will himself pay the Officers non Commissioned officers and privates of his Regiment individually. When by necess⟨ity⟩ of distant detachment, this cannot be done, ⟨he⟩ will deliver the money to the Officers commanding companies or to the officers commanding parts of companies at stations too distant for the agency of the commanders of Companies, taking from each an accountable Receipt. The money must in each case be paid and issued pursuant to pay rolls signed by such commanding Officers, and wherever it is practicable accompanied by warrants of the Commanding Officers of Regiments, or of batalions when detached.
For all monies which shall be issued to officers to be disbursed by them they shall account monthly with the Regimental Pay Master producing to him the requisite vouchers. Upon every such accounting he shall give a certificate of the substance thereof to the Officer with whom such accounting shall be specifying therein the vouchers which shall have been produced & left with him. This accounting shall be provisional only and liable to the revision and controul of the proper Officer of the War Department, to whom the accounts and vouchers must be forwarded.
The same regulations as nearly as the subject will admit shall be observed in respect to the issuing of Cloath⟨ing⟩ and other articles provisions excepted which shall be issued to the Non Commissioned officers & soldiers and in respect to the accounting for the same.
Every Receipt for pay bounty or other matter from a Non Commissioned officer or private who cannot write shall be certified by a commissioned Officer, who whenever it shall be practicable, shall be other than the person for whom it is to serve as a voucher.
All Documents or returns upon which issues of money or other articles are to be made must be countersigned by the Chief Officer of the Regiment or other particular corps for which the same is to be issued.
The Accounts of Regimental Pay Masters & Quarter Masters shall previous to their transmission to the War Department be presented to the commanders of Regiments or of Batalions when detached & to the persons from whom respectively they shall have received the objects for what they are accountable who shall summarily examine them and certify their opinion respectively.

The above regulation shall apply to all persons who may act as substitutes for the Officers to whom they relate.
All returns & requisitions for obtaining supplies from the Department of War shall go from the Deputy Superintendant of Military Stores with each army to the said Superintendant.
Estimates for supplies shall be reported by the Deputy Quarter Master General with each army to the Commander of such army and shall be by him transmitted to the Secretary of War with his opinion. Each Deputy shall send a duplicate of every estimate to the Quarter Master General, who shall report to the Commander in Chief general estimates for all the troops of the United States illustrated by the particular estimates; which general estimates shall be transmitted by the Commander in Chief to the Secretary of War with his opinion.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 8 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York, April 8, 1799. “The Commander in Chief having approved the idea of calling the Pay Master to the Seat of Government, I send you inclosed by his direction an order for him to repair to the seat of Government.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 8 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

New York April 8. 1799
Dr. Sir

I send you in confidence the copy of a letter of this date to the Secretary of War and of the plan to which it refers. Consider it well. Make the Secretary of War talk to you about it, without letting him know that I have sent it to you—And urge the establishment of some plan which will effectually organise this important branch of our Military service. The proper course in the interior of the army is indicated by the plan I present. The connections between the Agents with the army and the Principal officers at the Seat of the Government admit of such modifications as may be deemed best. I think it desireable to separate the Quarter Master General from the business of procuring supplies and make him and his deputies in this respect checks. In addition to this duty he will have numerous military functions of great importance, which will give him abundant employment.
With great regard I am   Dr Sir   Your obed ser
A Hamilton
Oliver Wolcott Esq


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 9 April 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War Department, April 9, 1799. Acknowledges receipt of Hamilton’s letter of April 8, 1799. Has directed that “advanced pay” for officers be provided to the regimental paymasters.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Richard Hunewell and Nathan Rice, 10 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hunewell, Richard,Rice, Nathan

New York April 10th. 1799
Gentlemen

In consequence of a letter of which the inclosed is a copy, the arrangement, of which a copy is also inclosed, was made by General Brooks. But you will perceive that it is incomplete in respect to the delineation of the subdistricts and the fixing upon a place in each for a rendezvous. This place ought to be chosen with an eye to the accommodation of the recruits, to the convenient procuring of supplies on the spot, and to the easy conveyance of such as are to be sent there. I request that you will in concert with General Brooks complete the arrangement and transmit me the result.
Expecting a more rapid progress in the preliminary measures for recruiting I had recourse to the Delegation of Massachusettes. Their ideas will be seen in the extract herewith sent of a letter from Mr. Sedgwick. As the plan was digested in the close of the session, when there was little time for deliberation, I have supposed that it may be less perfect than it would otherwise have been. I therefore send it for consideration—to guide but not to govern.
It is now essential that all remaining measures preparatory to the commencement of the recruiting service should be executed with promptitude. I am anxious to receive the nominations of your Regimental Staff. If the consultation directed to be had with your officers towards the selection of a Pay Master should be likely to occasion further material delay, I request, that you will yourself name to me provisionally the person, whom you think most likely to engage the suffrages of your officers.
One of you, to whose hands this letter shall first come, will be pleased to write immediately to the other on the subject of it, so as to effect a meeting without loss of time. Should absence or any other circumstance interfere with the speedy consultation of General Brooks you will together make the arrangement without his aid.
With consideration   I am Gentlemen   Yr Obed ser
Lt Colonels


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 10 April 1799
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Mount Vernon, April 10, 1799. “I have received your letter of the 27th. ulto., enclosing a design of dividing the State of Virginia into Divisions, & Subdivisions, for the head quarters of the Rendezvouses in each: asking my opinion of the proper distribution of them, for the convenience of the Recruiting Service. The Grand division of the State, I conceive to be well allotted and with … alterations, the sub division of it may be so likewise: but of the latter, I can speak with no precision, because of the number of new Counties which have been established, the situation of which I know not, and even the names of some were unknown to me before.… General Lee’s absences from home, canvassing for the ensuing Election of Representatives to Congress, and an indisposition with which he has (as I have lately heard) been siesed, from it, has been, I presume, the cause of your not having received an answer to your letter.… Not an officer in this State (that has come to my knowledge) has yet received his Commission; to the great dissatisfaction of all, & relinquishment of many; who would no longer remain in a state of suspence and idleness.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 11 April 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir,
War Department11th April 1799

Governor St Clair has made a representation to me in a letter dated the 18th of February of which I enclose you a copy, by which it appears that much discontent, and uneasiness has been occasioned by the proclamation of Martial law at Detroit. To give a full view of the subject, I have also enclosed extracts from a correspondence between the Secretary of War and Brigadier General Wilkinson relative to the same business.
By the first extract of a letter from the Secretary of War to Brigadier General Wilkinson dated 25 of July 1797 you will perceive that it has been recommended to the commanding officer to suspend, or modify the military law, when no external danger was to be apprehended, so as only to suppress those practices, or sales of liquor to soldiers which incapacitates them from doing their duty, and render the Indians less manageable, and more burdensome.
The second extract from the Secretary of War to General Wilkinson states, generally, the complaints made by the Inhabitants of Detroit, and the President’s wish that, if circumstances will admit, the rigor of military law should not be exercised.
The third extract is from a letter of Brigadier General Wilkinson’s to the Secretary of War dated Pittsburg March 8th 1798 contains his reasons for proclaming martial law and the necessity there is for its continuance. This letter contains extracts from the general orders issued by the commandant of Detroit while under the British government; by these extracts it appears that the Inhabitants of Detroit have always been subject to martial law since the year 1785.
As this is a subject which requires particular and immediate attention, I request that as soon as you have given it the necessary consideration, you will cause such orders to be issued as the circumstances of the case may require.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, Sir, your most Obt Hb St
James McHenry


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 11 April 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir
War Department11th. April 1799

The Secretary of the Treasury, has represented to me, in a letter dated the 20th. March ulto., that a Party of Troops, heretofore ordered, to be detached, to assist the Surveyor General in marking the Indian boundary line, conformably to the Treaty of Greenville, had utterly failed to cooperate, and that in consequence, the Northern line has been marked in no other manner, than the boundaries of Townships. I therefore enclose you, a copy of a letter, from me, to Brigadier General Wilkinson dated the 18th March 1797 advising him of a requisition by the Secretary of the Treasury, for a military escort, to cover the Surveyors while running the necessary lines, and requiring him, on the application of the Surveyor General, and information, when and where the Survey is to commence, to direct a suitable escort, instructed to assist, in marking the exterior line—also an extract from a letter, of General Wilkinson to me, dated the 25th April 1797 which shews, that he had taken preparatory measures, to comply with my orders. You will be pleased, at a convenient time, to ascertain, why the cooperation of the military thus ordered, and intended, did not take place, and make report to me accordingly.
As the marking of the boundary line, is yet incomplete and the Secretary of the Treasury, still thinks military assistance, and protection necessary, to complete it, you will as soon as possible, give directions, that an adequate party of the troops in the North Western Territory, shall attend, at such time and place as shall be pointed out, by the Surveyor General, to cover him, and his workmen, and to assist in marking, such parts of the boundary line, as he may direct.
Mr. Wolcott has been requested, to inform you, of the place, where it is most probable, the Troops will be wanted, to enable you to determine, from what post or place, it will be most convenient and proper, to draw the necessary escort.
I am Sir   with great respect   Your obedient servant

James McHenry
Alexander Hamilton EsqrMajor General of the Armiesof the United States.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 13 April 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War Department, April 13, 1799. “The enclosed copy of a letter from Lieutenant Colonel Strong dated the 23rd: of January ultimo. was intended to have accompanied the papers referred to you in my letter of the 11th. instant.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 13 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Sir
New York April 13th. 1799

I have been yesterday & this morning honored with your several favours, three of the 11th and two of the 12th instant.
The injunctions respecting the Indian boundary line will be carefully & promptly attended to. Speedy attention will also be paid to the affair of proclaiming Martial law at Detroit. At present I am not aware how the authority for it is found. But this as well as its expediency will be examined.
It did not appear to me that the measure of sending forward immediately money and cloathing to the several states could be attended with the inconvenience you mention—since it is exactly what has been done with regard to New York and what would naturally be done in the case of every distant State, with the difference only of the anticipation of the names of the Pay Masters. I presumed that these articles would always be sent to some Agents of the Department to deliver them over to the Pay Masters and take their receipts, and that the alternative would be to instruct those agents to deliver them to certain Pay Masters by name or to such persons as the respective Colonels of Regiments should designate to them as the Pay Masters.
It is true that none of my former communications indicates the names of the particular officers assigned to the several Subdistricts. This was a detail which I considered as properly to be referred to the Commandants of the Regiments, leaving it with them to instruct their respective Pay Masters and with these to concert with the agents of the War Department the distribution in detail. If matters so minute as these are to make the circuit of a previous communication through the Commanding General to the Secretary of War the obstacles to the execution of the service will be endless. In making this observation I have nothing in view but to present to consideration this important rule, that the efficient execution of any extensive branch of military service can only be attained by confining the principal actors to general arrangements, & by their employing competent organs and leaving to them the more minute details.
I write however this day to the Commanders of the Regiments of Pensylvania & New Jersey to effectuate the desired information.
With very great respect & esteem   I have the honor to be   Sir Yr. Obed serv
The Secy of War


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Lloyd Moore and Aaron Ogden, 13 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Moore, Thomas Lloyd,Ogden, Aaron

New York, April 13, 1799. “Relying that you will lose no time in assigning your Officers to the different subdistricts—I request that you will transmit me a list, showing the name of the principal Officer of each sub-district and the particular sub-district to which he is assigned. You will also … forward a duplicate to the Secy of War.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Nathan Rice, 13 April 1799
From: Rice, Nathan
To: Hamilton, Alexander

My dear General
Hingham [Massachusetts] April 13th. 1799

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your favour of the 23rd ulto.; inclosing a list of the officers who are to compose my Regiment, distributed into companies.

I delayed not to convene as many of my officers as could be assembled expeditiously for the purpose of electing a paymaster. A plurality of the votes were in favour of Lieutenant Robert Duncan. The choice met my approbation, & I wish the nomination, if necessary, might meet the sanction of the President. You do not mention Sir, to whom his bonds are to be given, or who is to be the judge of the sufficiency of the sureties.
I have not as yet complyed with your orders, in nominating fit Characters for Quarter Master & Adjutant not from a disposition to disobey, but from a want of due knowledge of the gentlemen of that grade, to designate the most deserving, & the best qualifyed among them, & I hope Sir you will admit my appology as sufficient, as those appointments are certainly very important in the organization of a regiment: An unnecessary delay shall not take place—should it be necessary a temporary appointment can be made.
Previous to the receipt of your favour, I had taken the liberty of expressing to you the high sense I entertained of the honor done me in being appointed to so distinguished & responsible a rank, under a General whose virtues, Talents, & bravery have placed him most deservedly second in command in the armies of the United States. I also took the liberty to suggest a query, whether in arranging the officers to each regiment it would not be promotive of harmony in the corps to permit the field officers to agree on their Captains & with them to arrange & assign the subalterns to the companies? As the arrangement is made, I wish to ask whether an exchange of any of the officers, if agreed to by all concerned is admissible, for I am informed some of the Gentlemen are unpleasantly arranged, owing to some private disputes.
The very small knowledge I have already acquired of the officers had convinced me of the propriety of your observations respecting the future adjustments of their rank, & that important alterations will be proper and necessary & that the reforms therefor should be kept silent.
On the subject of the recruiting service which you suggest will speedily commence—permit me to observe that the winter the most promising season for the business being past, a further delay must very much injure it. Our young men will be engaging in husbandry & other employments, oweing to the superior encouragements which will be held out to them, beyond those held out by Government to their soldiers, & render it very difficult to obtain such men as I should wish to command. I hope Sir to have the honor of your particular instructions on this subject, as also on every other which will demand my attention, & beg you will do me the favour to believe I wait your orders therein: & that I am with the
highest esteem & respect Your obedient Servant
N Rice


Title: Circular to the Commandants of Regiments, 15 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commandants of Regiments

Circular
New York April 15. 1799
Sir

It is a question whether it will be most adviseable to distribute the Cloathing for your Regiment among the several subdistricts to be furnished to the recruits as they shall be raised or to deposit the whole either at the Regimental Rendezvous or at the place which you shall fix as the rendezvous of each district. As the right decision of this question may depend in part upon circumstances of a local nature it is left with you. If it will equally comport with the success of the recruiting service, the last mentioned course is to be preferred; because among other reasons it will avoid expence in transportation and hazard of loss by distribution. In this case, the moment the necessary money shall have been received you may proceed in the recruiting service without waiting for the arrival of the Cloathing.
I am with consideration Sir Yr. Obed servt.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 15 April 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War Department, April 15, 1799. “I have received your favour of the 13th instant. The arrangement of sending the recruiting money, in the first instance to the Regimental Paymasters, instead of through an Agent to them, avoids a Commission of One per Cent generally to the Agent for paying the money to the Paymaster, and doubling the Accounts for the same object in the Accountants Books. Hence it is desirable … that the Paymaster should receive the money directly from this department. With respect to the transportation of Cloathing, it has been suggested that the Cloathing for Pennsylvania, Jersey, and Delaware by being sent in parcels from this place to their respective districts would save double transportation.… Have you considered the idea of making an experiment of inlisting at the districts without Cloathing and transferring the Recruits in parcels as inlisted to the General rendezvous? Will not this mode save much transportation? …”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Wilkinson, 15 April 1799
From: Wilkinson, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Loftus’ Heights [Mississippi Territory] Head QuartersWestern Army 15th. April 1799
Sir

It is in consequence of an order from the Minister of War received on the 4th. Inst., that I have now the Honor to begin my correspondence with you.
Accustomed to the frankness of a Soldier, nothing less than the fear of incurring the imputation of adulation or of impertinence could prevent the expression of my feelings on the occasion, but altho I wave professions, I may express the high satisfaction I feel, at finding myself under the orders of a Gentleman, able to instruct me in all things.
I avail myself of the return of Lt. Hyde, of the 1st. Regt., who goes to the seat of Government, to adjust His public Accounts, to send forward this Letter, (with a return of the Troops, stationed at Massac & on the Mississippi) to Cincinnati on the Ohio, from whence it will be transmitted to you, by the ordinary mail: I shall in the course of the Month, endeavour to make up returns from the several Departments to comprize every appertenance to the Service in this Quarter.

Refering you for information to my communications, made to the Minister of War on the subject, I am now to report the sailing of the Detachment, destined to the mobile River, on the 10th Inst, under the Orders you will find copied within, which may I hope meet your approbation.
Daily occurrences tend to evince the necessity of a Cordon of Posts, to extend from this point, along the national boundary, to the settlements of Georgia, in order to exclude foreign machinations, to lay the savages at our feet, & to repress the licentiousness of our erratic frontiers-Men. The Testimony enclosed relative to a late robbery, commited on the trace leading from this Territory to Nashville, may be depended on, and it remains a matter of doubt, whether this party was purely savage, whether sent from Pensacola, or excited by one Duffy a lawless Ruffian, not long since a Prisoner at Massac, for trespassing on the Indian Lands North West of the Ohio, from whence He made his Escape.
The Minister of War, in his Letter of the 31st. Jany. having expressed some doubts, of the policy & expediency of taking Post at this place, it becomes my duty to state, in brief, the motives which governed my Conduct in this instance.
The distance of this Territory from National succour & its proximity to a foreign Power, exposes it more to dangers from invasion, than any other point of the Union.
The same causes will render the conquest more easy, & the recovery more difficult; and the occupancy would preserve a communication with the Southern Indians, & greatly facilitate foreign Intrigue & the acts of corruption among our wide extended western Settlements.
The People of this Territory, in general, have too often changed Masters, to foster any fixed principles of policy, or to cherish any permanent attachments to government, they are besides secured by various causes: in this temper & with such dispositions, a position to controul as well as to protect appeared to me political.
The Spaniards are subordinate to the French, & the regular military of Louisiana is insufficient, to defend the Government for an Hour, against a general rising of the Inhabitants, who have been all armed, are almost exclusively French, & as frantic in their politicks, as the fish-women of Paris.
The heavy Artillery & portable Magazines of an invading Army, must move by Water, & the voyage from New Orleans, to the center of the population of the Territory, may be computed at twenty Days, tho it has been performed in fourteen.
The preceding reflections, which are in my judgment well founded, determined me to condense my small force, to take Post here, & fortify; a resolution which may I hope be justifiable on the following specifick grounds viz.
1st. Because it is the only spot on the Mississippi, below the Ohio, which is safe from the wash of the current, & effectually commands the pass of the River at all Seasons.
2ndly. Because the site is uncommonly strong, & the natural form of the ground, highly susceptible of defensive works, on œconomical terms.
3rdly. Because the position is approximate to the national boundary, & at the lower extremity of the Territorial settlements.
4thly. Because an insidious Enemy, such as we have to apprehend, meditating a stroke at this Territory, could masque his preparations behind Batton rouge, the frontier Port of Louisiana on the River & from thence, was no Barrier interposed, by an Energetic movement, might in eight or ten Days gain possession of the Country; a period too short for the transmittal of the Intelligence, to any Position we could take on the Mississippi, above the mouth of the Yazou.
5thly. Because this position properly fortified, will enable us to repel superior force, & to check an Host, until succours may be drawn from the upper Country—or should offence become necessary to carry a coup-de-maine against the Capital below. I forbear to remark on its vicinity, to the direct route into the mexican provinces of Texhas & St Afee & St. Andero, or to enlarge on the advantages this circumstance might afford us, should Events compel us to attack, and
6thly. I proposed by condensing my force, to save the hazard of being beaten in detail, and by fortifying at this point to cover the Country, to give confidence to the Inhabitants, and to make demonstration of the power & decision of the Government.
I submit the case to you Sir, without further trespass on your time; in the belief, that should you find cause to condemn my judgment, you will not discredit my motives.
Anterior to the Death of Captain Demlar, the senior Officer of Engineers, I had relied on Him for the Plan, elivation, & section of the ground to be occupied, but I have since discovered his measurements & calculations to be erroneous, and am now engaged in correcting his Errors; and by the next conveyance, I hope it may be in my power, to give you ample information, & in the meantime I send you, under cover, an accurate section of the Site, from high water mark to the summit of the Hill, which commands the circumjacent country.
Solicitous for the pleasure of an interview with you, I am preparing to meet the summons, which the minister of War, has notified me to expect from you, with the utmost promptitude; I beg you to believe that the expectation interests not less my inclinations than my duty, but it will occur to you that the Arrangements indispensable to the preservation of due responsibility over such an extensive chain of Posts, separately commanded & instructed—To provide for the security of the public property, & the progression of the public service, every where within the Sphere of my Authority—and to guard the Health of the Troops against the ravages of this climate, on the Margin of the River, will require three or four Weeks; you may however rest assured, I shall not waste one moment, after the arrival of your mandate, which may I hope, for the sake of certainty, convenience, & expedition, allow me discretion as to the route, by which I may approach you.
I have just heard from unquestionable authority, that Mr. Gayoso is soliciting a voluntary loan, at 10⅌ Ct. Interest, throughout his jurisdiction, for the use of the Crown, & under the pretext that it is to support the War against Great Britain, but in reality I beleive to support his own immediate Government, as His treasury is empty, & the annual remittance from vera Cruz has failed; I have not ascertained his success, but think it will turn out a dull Business.
I have the pleasure to inform you, we have not had a single desertion, since Lt. Lovels agreement with Governor Gayoso, was read at the Head of the Troops, and also that the Men in general now enjoy good Health, which I shall endeavour to preserve, by giving them a position in this vicinity, a few Miles removed from the River, excepting the necessary guards, which will be releived weekly.
I have taken measures to ascertain the party, which commited the outrage, on the trace leading to the State of Kentucky, & hope for success, as the offence should not be suffered to pass away unnoticed.
I have nothing material to add which may with propriety be commited to Paper.
With sincere admiration & great respect   I am sir   Your Mo. Obedient Servant
Ja Wilkinson
Major General Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 16 April 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War Department, April 16, 1799. “I have received this morning your two letters dated the 15. instant.… Several Officers appointed to the new Regiments had expressed uneasiness upon the ground of not receiving their Commissions. I know however the uneasiness among some of them proceeded from another cause. They were apprehensive they were to receive no pay ’till called into actual service, while some of them would have hoped that the first commissioned would be intitled to priority of Rank. To quiet any apprehensions on the first account and remove any expectations on the second I issued a circular letter upon the first of April instant of which the enclosed is a Copy. I do not know whether you recollect that Commissions were not issued to the Officers of the Army directed to be raised in 1792 ’till a twelve month after their appointment.… The field Officers for New Hampshire viz. One Lieutenant Colonel and one Major and one Major for Vermont cannot possibly be appointed for some time. The Representation from New Hampshire just before the rising of Congress requested that nominations to the President might be delayed till they could return home and have an opportunity to forward me the names of qualified persons to fill these Offices. I have not yet heard from them and after I do I must transmit my choice to the President for his approbation before I can announce their being appointed.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 17 April 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir,
War Department17th. April 1799

In my letter to you of the 4th February last, after intimating the disposition proposed, by the Commander in Chief, for the existing regiments of Artillerists, and Engineers, I added “You will therefore give effect, to the aforesaid disposition, and so arrange the Companies of Artillery, that those belonging to the same regiment or Corps, may form contiguous Garrisons.”
I had written to Major General Pinckney to the same effect, in February last.
It now appears to me proper, in order to give full effect, to the dispositions of the Companies of Artillerists &c in contiguous garrisons, at those points especially, where the respective spheres of your command, and that of General Pinckney, meet, that a communication upon the subject should take place immediately between you, which I request you will commence without loss of time. I shall make the same request to General Pinckney.
I am Sir   With great respect   Your obedient servant
James McHenry
Major GeneralAlexander Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, [17] April 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War Department, April [17] 1799. “I have occasionally thought of the plan for the providing and issuing military supplies, submitted in your letter of the 8th inst. It strikes me, that the additional assistants to the Purveyor and Superintendant of Military Stores which it proposes, will tend to facilitate both purchases and deliveries; and the powers assigned to the Inspector General and deputy Inspector Generals and Quarter Master & Deputy Quarter Master General with a separate army, over the Deputies of the Purveyors & Superintendants with the respective armies, to the discovery and correction of abuses. The details of the business enjoined upon these officers are similar to those under a former establishment. There was always with the main branch of the revolutionary army, the Qr Master General, Commissary General of issues and purchases of provisions, the field commissary of military stores and Deputy paymaster, whose duties were nearly the same as specified in the plan. So far therefore the plan is founded upon experience. The rest of the plan appears to correspond in general with present practice.… I shall request Mr Wolcott to consider the whole, when I shall take it up for a final determination.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 17 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York, April 17, 1799. “Your letters of the 15th. and 16th. are duly come to hand.… Tomorrow I shall leave this place for Philadelphia. Several things will best be settled by personal conference which in future will be mutually convenient & will promote the service.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Ebenezer Stevens, 17 April 1799
From: Stevens, Ebenezer
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, April 17, 1799. “I will thank You to take the Statemt. of Mr Mangin’s services, with you, to the Secrety at War, there will be but little due him from Government, as the amount now Stands, he has been of essential Services in Conducting the Works of Fort Jay &c: and I am sincerely desirous to have a Settlement made with him. Respecting my Compensation for the Services I have rendered the UStates, the Secrety at War, has left it optional with me to Receive it by a Salary or Commission on Amount of Disbursements. I have preffer’d the latter, & will make out a Statement of the Disbursemts. charging 2½ ⅌ Cent Commissn on the Same—which will be for my Services up to the 5th. of Feby. last, And from that period, will accept of a Salary say of $2000 ⅌ Year, for my Services for the future.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John De Barth Walbach, 17 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Walbach, John De Barth

New York, April 17, 1799. “My object is to See exemplified the elementary evolutions of the Cavalry according to the Systems of Prussia, France, and Great Britain in order to compare them with each other and Select the best. For this purpose I wished you to instruct in those different evolutions a troop of Volunteer horse.… You will readily understand that I do not wish to extend your attention to the more complicated movements—but to the simple formation into Columns and display in line.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 17 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

New York, April 17, 1799. “I have the honor of your letter of the 10th. instant.… The alterations you suggest are adopted.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Hamilton, 19 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hamilton, Elizabeth

[Philadelphia, April 19, 1799. On April 20, 1799, Hamilton wrote to Elizabeth Hamilton: “I yesterday informed my beloved of my arrival here.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Ebenezer Stevens, 19 April 1799
From: Stevens, Ebenezer
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, April 19, 1799. “Since I had the pleasure of addressing you under date of the 17th: instant I have considered, that it will be better for me to accept a Salary of Two thousand Dollars pr. Year from the date of my appointment as agent to the War department than to have a Commission on my disbursements to the first of February last and afterward a salary at that rate pr. annum.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 20 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Philadelphia, April 20, 1799. “… As I do not conceive the United States to be now at War in the legal import of that term (which I construe to be a state not of partial but of general, hostility) I consider it as beyond my power to approve or execute such sentences as by the Articles of War are referred to the President in time of peace. But while I think it my duty on this ground to transmit the sentence without acting upon it, I feel myself called upon by a profound conviction of the necessity of some severe examples to check a spirit of desertion which for want of them in time past, has become too prevalent, respectfully to declare my opinion, that the confirmation and execution of the sentence are of material consequence to the prosperous course of the military service. The crime of desertion is in this instance aggravated by the condition of the Offender, who is a Serjeant, and by the breach of trust, in purloining the money which was in his hands for the pay of his company.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Wilkinson, 20 April 1799
From: Wilkinson, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Head Quarters Western ArmyLoftus’ Heights [Mississippi Territory] 20th. April 1799
Sir

It was not before the last Evening, I had the Honor to receive your Letter of the 12th. Febry: altho the messenger who brought it, delivered me philadelphia Papers, as late as the 8th: Ultimo. I regret the delay but cannot account for it.
I wrote you five Days since Fort Washington on the Ohio, & now enclose you a duplicate of that Dispatch, by a confidential half-bred Indian, who will bear this Letter direct to Knox Ville, from whence it will be forwarded by Mail. I have adopted this channel of prompt communication, to apprize you of my intentions, & to prevent any unpleasant interpretations, which might otherwise ensue unavoidable delays. I shall give the Troops I command, the best disposition without loss of time, & such substantial regulations will immediately follow, as may be best calculated to promote the service, secure the national Interests, & preserve tranquillity during my absence.
In the course of the ensuing Month, I shall certainly commence my Journey, but whether by Land or by Water, will depend on a variety of circumstances maturely examined; but anterior to my departure hence, I shall send orders to the Northern Posts, for the transmittal to philadelphia, of such documents as may, combined to those I shall cary with me, give you a clear comprehensive view, of the principles of Duty & of service which have obtained, of the Systems which prevail, & the Establishments which exist, from whence you may form precise conceptions, of the necessary modifications.
Believe me sir, I am sensibly affected by the expression of kindness in which you address me, and altho professions in general be vain & illusory, I will hazard the propriety of the assurance, that you shall find me, in all the relations of our profession, obedient, prompt, & zealous. Weded to the sword, I have no ambition but that of military Fame, fairly earned & soundly Established, & I am persuaded such views will find advocates in the Candor & the expansion of your Breast.
If I may judge from the exterior, our neighbours of Louisiana repose confidence in us, & are sincerely disposed to cultivate the Harmony which prevails. On my part to evidence my disposition to preserve a good understanding, & for other purposes which will occur to you, I continue to keep an Officer almost constantly in the City of New Orleans.
The route by Land to you will require two Months, by Water one only. To save time I shall adopt the last, provided the Governor of Louisiana, will guarantee my free passage without search or hindrance.
With much consideration & respectful attachment   I am Sir   Your Obedt. Servant
Ja Wilkinson
Major General Hamilton


Title: Enclosure: Regulations Respecting Extra Allowances to Officers, [19 December 1798]
From: McHenry, James
To:

[Philadelphia, December 19, 1798]

In all cases where officers are detached on services, which oblige them to incur expences on the road, and at places where there are no military posts, except where the law has specifically provided for travelling expenses, the following regulations are to govern in the settlement of their accounts.
I. Every officer detached as aforesaid, besides his legal pay and emoluments shall receive a dollar and twenty-five cents per day for man and horse for each day that the officer must sleep at a place not a military post, and when the officer is of a rank to be entitled to a servant, then the addition of seventy-five cents per day for the servant and his horse. That the foregoing rule shall apply to all places but the Seat of Government, and the principal town in each state, at which places the allowance to be a dollar and a half for the officer and his horse.
II. That extraordinary cases only for which greater allowances may be indispensible be referred to the special discretion of the Secretary of War, to be assisted by a certificate from the commanding officer, by whom the officer claiming was detached on the special service, stating the reasons and circumstances.
III. That fifty cents, without reference to rank, be allowed to every officer detached from one military post to another, which he may reach the same night, not less than forty miles distant: In this case it is contemplated the servant can without inconvenience take his own provisions with him.
V. That the day’s journey be regulated by the number of miles in the following proportions, viz. Forty miles to a day where the whole distance does not exceed two hundred miles: thirty to a day for all above two hundred and not exceeding three hundred and fifty; twenty-five to a day, for all above three hundred and fifty and not exceeding six hundred; and twenty to a day for all above six hundred.
V. That these rates do not retrospect but regard future allowances only. That all past and intervening cases, before a reasonable notice of the same, be settled on the former principle of reasonable expences according to circumstances, it being supposed that the application of a new rule may produce hardship and injustice where the service may have been performed in the expectation that practice on former occasions would prevail.
Given at the Office of the War Departmentof the United States, in the City of Philadelphiaby order of the President, this nineteenthday of December, 1798, and in thetwenty-third year of Independence.
James McHenry, Secretary of War.


Title: Circular to the Commandants of Regiments, 23[–24] April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commandants of Regiments

Circular
Philadelphia April 23d. [–24] 1799
Sir

The Secretary of War has assured me that a competent number of drums and fifes for your Regiment shall be forwarded with its Cloathing. And he has authorised me to instruct you to hire temporarily persons in the capacities of drummers and fifers to be employed in the Recruiting service till others can be enlisted, provided that they can be obtained for a compensation not exceeding eight dollars per Month and one ration per day and without cloathing.
It appears to me expedient that the Recruits which shall be raised should not long remain at their company Rendezvousses but should speedily march to their District or Regimental Rendezvousses.
With great consideration   I am Sir   Your obed servt:


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Jay, 23 April 1799
From: Jay, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Dr Sir
Albany 23 Ap. 1799

Such was your Recommendation of Mr. Inglis for the place of a notary, that it is proper to mention to you the Reasons why he was not appointed. I think the number of officers should be regulated in general by the occasion or necessity there may be for them.
In the City of New York there are at least Twenty public notaries; and that number being in my opinion more than sufficient, it does not appear to me advisable to increase it. There are many Candidates, and there are some among them whom it would give me particular pleasure to appoint—such as—Mr Malcom who was recommended to me by the Presidt of the U. S.—Mr Lawrence, the Son of our Senator—Mr. Inglis—& two or three more.
Exclusive of Mr. Inglis, I find no less than sixteen names on the List of candidates—some of them of more than three Years Standing.

List of Notaries in the City of N York

John Wilkes
R. Van den Broeck
Ch. Adams
Wm. Bleecker

John Keese
Cadw. Colden
Fr. Lynch
Jams. Creighton

Jams. M. Hughes
Is. L. Kip
John S. Hunn
Ab. Skinner

Ed. Dunscomb
Th. Smith
Ch. Bridgen
Wm. Bache

Adrian Kissam
Ch. R. Richardson
John G. Bogart
Henry Remson

There were other notaries in the city (some of them I have heard are dead, and others removed—perhaps some of them may be still there)—vizt. Jams. De Haert—Paul R. Randall—J. F. Roorbach—Is. Van Vleck—Wm. Brodie—Teunis Wortman—Dan. Thew &c—
Since I have been in the Govt. I have appointed no more than three in the City—Ab. Skinner—Wm. Bache in whose favor Mr. Popham resigned; and Henry Remson to succeed his Brother John.
These Details are prompted by the Respect due to your Recommendation and by the Esteem and Regard with which I am
Dr Sir   Your most Obt. Servt.
Maj. Genl. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 23 April 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

private
War Department 23 Apl 1799
Dear Sir

I wish you ⟨to⟩ state to me 1st. The rule which in your opinion will be the least exceptionable, whereby to determine the relative rank of the Field Officers of the new regiments, and the reasons for prefering the rule. 2d. Whether any objections have occurred to you, which ought to induce any alteration in the general rules of promotion suggested by the General Officers in the Commander in Chiefs letter dated the 13 Decr. ulto vz. “That all officers shall rise in the Regiments, to which they respectively belong up to the rank of Major inclusively; that afterwards they shall rise in the line of the army at large with the limitation, however, that the officers of Artillery cavalry and Infantry shall be confined to their respective corps, until they shall attain the rank of Colonel.”
yours truly & affly
James McHenry
Gen. Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 23 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Philadelphia April 231799

Upon a careful inspection of the Articles of War I entertain doubts, whether I can act upon, by approving or disapproving sentences of Courts Martial referred to me from the Department of War, in cases in which the Courts have been instituted by that Department through organs other than myself.
As there is peculiar delicacy in inflicting punishment upon questionable authority, I shall be glad to be exempted from the embarrassment which references of the above mentioned kind will occasion.
I have written provisionally to Col Strong to abstain from the execution of Martial law at Detroit till further order, as I desire maturely to reflect on the subject before a definitive Step.
With the greatest respect   I have the honor to be Sir   Yr. Obed ser
The Secy of War


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Washington Morton, 23 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Morton, Washington

Sir,
Philadelphia April 23. 1799

On revising the proceedings of the General Court Martial received from you, I find that it does not appear by them whether two thirds of the members of the Court concurred on the Conviction of Sergeant Hunt. The articles of War (8th of Chapter Administration of Justice) require that two thirds shall agree in cases where death is inflicted, and I am of opinion that this agreement ought to appear on the face of the proceedings. I presume there was a competent number to condemn. If so, I request you to insert a clause expressing it. This will properly be incorporated in the body of the sentence reading thus “The Court, two thirds (or more than two thirds if the fact be so) of the members thereof having concurred therein, find &c.”
As this was not originally inserted, there must be a certificate at foot signed by the President and yourself declaring that the words &c (reciting them) were inserted after the first signature and that the fact is thereby stated.
When this is done, return the proceedings open under cover to the Secretary of War.
Washington Moreton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Nathan Rice, 23 April 1799
From: Rice, Nathan
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir,
Hingham [Massachusetts] April 23d. 1799

I can only now, in answer to your favour of the 10th. instant, do myself the honor, to acknowledge the receipt thereof, with its inclosures, consisting of General Brooks arrangement of this state, into districts & also some outlines of a similar nature by Mr. Sedgwick. I shall communicate to Colonel Hunnewell the contents of your Letter & sollicit a consultation with him; But as it may be attended with some delay shall immediately wait on General Brooks for his aid in perfecting the system in conformity to your ideas, & transmit the same to you with all possible dispatch.
I did myself the honor of writing to you on the 13th. inst. when I communicated the choice made by the officers of my Regt of a Paymaster. The same reasons which then prevented my nominating the other regimental staff, now exist. I am uninformed as to the late Report of the Secretary at War relative to the Military establishment, how far it was adopted, & is to be my guide. It came inclosd to me from his office. Any information which you may think proper to make I shall be happy to receive.
I am Sir with the utmost consideration & esteem   Your most obt Servt.
N Rice
Major Genl Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Wilkinson, 25 April 1799
From: Wilkinson, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Head Quarters Loftus’ Heights [Mississippi Territory]25th. April 1799.
Sir

A confidential opportunity having offered to New Orleans, I avail myself of it, to give you the following extract from a Letter just recd. from Governor Gayoso & dated the 15th Inst.
“Your instructions to Captn Shaum Burgh, are not only according to the strictest discipline, but they show your Genls. evident disposition, to cultivate the best understanding between our Nations.
“The party arrived yesterday within a League of this Capital, from whence Capt Shaum Burgh acquainted me with it, & we agreed that the Day ensuing at ten oClock in the Morning, the Troops should pass through this Town, to the place appointed for their Encampment which was executed.
“The movement was performed in the most military manner & seemed rather calculated to give a publick testimony of the cordiality & sincere Friend ship between our Nations, than with any other object. I assure you no attention shall be wanting to compleat this operation.”
The remainder of the Letter, with several of a similar cast, I will reserve to make a smile, when I have the Honor to see you.
You have under cover a duplicate of my last; which I hazard by Sea, under the necessary precautions for its safety again in proper Hands.
Should Gayoso furnish the Guaranty I have asked, I hope for the pleasure of presenting myself to you on the 20th. June.
And have the Honor to be most respectfully   Sir Your Obedt Servant
Ja Wilkinson
Majr. General Hamilton

N. B. This Moment I learn by Letter from Mobile dated the 3rd. Inst: that a party of Creeks had called on the Commissioner of limits at that place, & at first were insolent, but on finding they were treated with contempt, they changed their tone, & it is presumed no difficulty will be opposed to the progress of the Commissioner. The line crosses the Mobile River twenty one Miles above the Town of the same Name.
J W


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 26 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Philadelphia April 26th.1799

It being urgent that the Two Regiments of Artillery should be organised into companies and disposed of to the several destinations which you have contemplated it results that a very inconvenient delay would attend the making of that arrangement in concert with General Pinckney as suggested in your late letter. As, likewise, this arrangement is mere matter of organisation, the distribution of force having been previously determined upon, it is presumed there will not appear on further consideration any sufficient motive for incurring the delay of such a concert—and that you will think it preferrable by the intervention of your agency to settle the arrangement and communicate it for execution to the two Major Generals.
In this expectation I beg leave to submit to you the plan of such an arrangement. The result will be seen in the paper herewith transmitted.
A preliminary basis, in conformity with the rule by which the twelve Regiments have been numbered, is on the sea board, to give the right to the first Regiment, the left to the second. This, as it happens, will occasion the least possible dislocation of the companies from their present stations.
You will perceive that a Batalion of the first Regiment is left to the Western Army; and it so turns out, that the number of officers in that quarter corresponds.
Another Batalion of the same Regt is assigned to the posts in Georgia and South Carolina—And a third to the Posts in North Carolina Virginia & Maryland.
The fourth will remain for the troops in the field and may be annexed to the part of the army under General Pinckney.
One batalion of the second Regiment is assigned to the posts in Delaware Pensylvania New Jersey and New York.
Another to the States Eastward and Northward of New York.
The third is reserved for the field and will naturally form a part of my command.
The fourth batalion of this Regiment not being yet raised it of course cannot be comprehended in an immediate Disposition.
In the association of officers for the companies, I have availed myself of all the indications which I was able to discover of their actual relations. But it may happen when situations and characters are better ascertained, that some alterations may promote personal harmony and benefit the service. It is therefore desireable that the adoption by you may be qualified by a view to further information to be obtained through the field Officers and to eventual changes.
There were no indications to regulate the association of the Officers with the Western army. It is consequently proposed to refer this to Col Burbeck.
When you shall have approved the plan now presented or with such alterations as you may judge adviseable, it will only remain to communicate your determination to the two Major Generals, who will concert its prompt execution.
It is extremely to be wished that a Commandant of the second Regiment may without delay be appointed. You are sensible how much, in the first stages of a military Corps, the want of the proper chief must impede the establishment of order and discipline.
With the greatest respect I have the honor to be Sir   Your Obed ser
The Secretary of War


Title: Enclosure: Arrangement of the Artillery, [25 April 1799]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, April 25, 1799]

  For the Western Army

    Names
    Rank
    Date of Commission
    Residence

    Henry Burbeck
    Lieut. Colonel
    7. May 1798
    Michilimacinac

    John J. Ulrich Rivardi
    Major
    26. February 1798
    Niagara

    Moses Porter
    Captain
    4 November 1791
    Michilimacinac

    Alexander Thompson
    ditto
    2. June 1794
    Niagara

    George Demlar
    ditto
    20. August 1795
    said to be dead

    Piercy Pope
    ditto
    24. April 1798
    Natchez

    Theophilus Elmer
    Lieutenant
    17 July 1794
    Detroit

    Peter Talman
    ditto
    26. February 1795
    ditto

    Richard Whiley
    ditto
    19. December 1796
    Michilimacinac

    Andrew Marshall
    ditto
    1. November 1796
    Mississippi

    James Sterret
    ditto
    2. June 1794
    ditto

    Thos: Underwood
    ditto
    26. July 1795
    Tenessee

    Robert Parkison
    ditto
    19. December 1796
    Massac

    John Campbell
    ditto
    1. November 1796
    Mississippi

          John M Lovel
          }

          Be: Major to

          General Wilkinson

    ditto
    26. February 1795

    Charles Brown
    Surgeon
    2 June 1794
    Detroit

    John G. Coffin
    Surgeons Mate
    " "
    Niagara

  Georgia and South Carolina

    Constant Freeman
    Major
    28. February 1795
    Philadelphia

    Michael Kaltieson
    Captain
    18. July 1794
    Charleston

    George Izard
    Lieutenant
    2. June 1794
      "

    Jonathan Robeson
    ditto
      "
      "

    Abimael Y Nicholl
    Captain
    29. November 1794
    St. Mary’s Georgia

    William Morris
    Lieutenant
    29. July 1794
    under Col:GaitherGeorgia

    Howell Cobb

    1. Novr: 1796
    on the Mississippi

    John Mc:Clellan
    Captain
    24. July 1798
    wth. General Macpherson

    Robert Rowan
    Lieutenant
    2. June 1794
    sick near Wilmington

    Staats Rutledge

    22. February 1799
    Litchfield Connecticut

    Frederick Frye
    Captain
    2. June 1794
    Governor’s Island

    Horatio Dayton
    Lieutenant
    17. July 1794
    Governors Island

    Samuel Fowles

    22. February 1799
    Massac

  North Carolina, Virginia and Maryland

    Machlon Ford
    Major
    7. May 1798
    Reading

    Richard S Blackburn
    Captain
    2 June 1794
    Norfolk

    John Saunders
    Lieutenant
    26. February 1795

    James Triplett

    19. December 1796

    James Bruff
    Captain
    2. June 1794
    Philadelphia

    Henry Muhlenburg
    Lieutenant

    West Point

    James P Heath

    22. February 1799
    Warwick Delaware

    Ebenezer Massey
    Captain
    7. May 1798
    Fort Mifflin

    Peter A Dransy
    Lieutenant
    12. April 1795
    West Point

    Ebenezer Beebe

    22. February 1799
    Litchfield Connecticut

    Staats Morris
    Captain
    26. February 1795
    Baltimore

    Philip Landais
    Lieutenant
    19. December 1796

    Samuel T Dyson

  Delaware Pennsylvania New Jersey and New York

    Benjamin Brooks
    Major
    4. June 1798
    Upper Malbro Md

    James Read
    Captain

    West Point

    Theodore Memminger
    Lieutenant

    Northampton

    Robert W Osburn

    Fort Mifflin

    Callender Irvine
    Captain

    Carlisle

    George W Carmichael
    Lieutenant

    West point

    Charles Wollstencraft

    Northampton

    James Stille
    Captain

    West Point

    Philip Stewart
    Lieutenant

    Patrick C Harris

    North Carolina

    Walter L Cochran
    Captain

    Northampton

    William L Cooper
    Lieutenant

    Northampton

    Richard Heaton Junr:

    22 Feby: 1799
       do

  Connecticut. Rhode Island. Vermont. Massachusetts. New Hampshire

    Daniel Jackson
    Major
    4 June 1798
    Boston

    Decius Wadsworth
    Captain
    4. June 1798
    New London

    Nathaniel Leonard
    Lieutenant

    Windsor ordd: to march

    Francis Gibson

    Northampton

    John Henry
    Captain
    4. June 1798
    Northampton P

    John W Livingston
    Lieutenant

    New York

    John Knight

    Northampton

    Lemuel Gates
    Captain

    Boston

    George W Duncan
    Lieutenant

    George Waterhouse

    22. February 1799
    Cambridge M

    Amos Stoddard
    Captain
    4. June 1798
    Portland

    William Steele
    Lieutenant

    Leonard Williams

    22 February 1799

  For the Field

    Lewis Toussard
    Major
    26. February 1795
    New Port. R I

    George Ingersoll
    Captain
    2. April 1798
    West Point

    Philip Rodrique
    Lieutenant
    19. December 1796

    William Littlefield
    Captain
    2. June 1794
    Rhode Island

    George Ross
    Lieutenant
    19. Decr: 1796

    Joseph Elliot
    Captain
    19 July 1796
    with Genl: Macpherson

    James House
    Lieut
    22. Feby: 1799
    with Captn. Elliot

    William Yates

    Albany

    Nathaniel Freeman
    Captain
    6 August 1798
    West Point

    Warham Shepard

    Westfield Connecticut

  For the Field

    Adam Hoops
    Major
    4 June 1798
    New York

    William McRhea
    Captain

    Alexandria V

    James White
    Lieutenant

    S Carolina

    John Fergus

    Wilmington

    Samuel Eddins
    Captain

    Richmond

    Alexander D Pope
    Lieutenant

    John Leybourn

    Savannah

    Francis H Huger
    Captain

    Charleston S C

    William Deveaux
    Lieutenant

    Savannah

    James B Many

    Charleston

    John Bishop
    Captain
    4 June 1798
    Winchester

    John Hancock
    Lieutenant

    Kempsville V

    David Evans Junr:

    22 Feby: 1799
    Fayetteville

Philadelphia April 251799
A Hamilton MG


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 26 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Dr. Sir
Philadelphia April 26. 1799

I have a second time maturely reflected on the proper rule for promotions in the army, and I continue to adhere to that which was adopted by the General Officers last Winter, & which is recapitulated in your letter. I am persuaded that in the general course of things it will work well and satisfactorily.
A moment’s hesitation as to its universal application arose from the situation of the four Regiments of the Old establishment. The understood rights of the older Captains, as resulting from past usage may appear to be infringed. But this inconvenience must be encountered, perhaps mitigated by a distribution of the oldest Captains among the four Regiments. There cannot with propriety or order be two Rules. That which is proposed will after a little time operate favourably every where & give equal chances.
With great esteem & regard   I am Dr Sir   Yr Obed servt
A Hamilton
Secy of War

The promotions to field Officers should be complete before the rule is applied.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John F. Hamtramck, 27 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hamtramck, John F.

Sir
New York April 27. 1799

You will receive herewith duplicate of my letter to you of the 9th instant.
It appearing that discontent has arisen from the establishment of Martial Law at Detroit, and a representation having been made against its exercise by Governor St Clair, and there being a question of delicacy about the boundaries of the authority to establish and exercise Martial Law in time of peace, it has been judged expedient to instruct the Commanding Officer of Detroit to forbear the exercise of it, till a further order shall have been given as the result of mature reflection.
The Secy of War has forwarded to me a letter from you of the 21 of January last. It contains among other things a suggestion respecting two companies of the first Regiment. I am not yet familiar enough with the arrangements of the Western army to be fond of giving directions at this distance concerning a detail of this kind, and it seems to me one appertaining naturally to the Commander of the Western Army, with whom in points of particular disposition I shall not incline to interfere. It is presumed you are now by the departure of General Wilkinson for Philadelphia, the temporary commander of that army and competent to the making of the change you suggest, if you continue to deem it eligible. But in general you will no doubt see it proper to be sparing in altering the permanent dispositions which may have been made by General Wilkinson. On the same supposition of your being the Commanding Officer you can take the measures you judge requisite with regard to Lt Webster.
It is proper to comply with the direction of General Wilkinson as to the building of houses for the Turtle and for the Toad. More carpenters if necessary must be employed. Soldiers so employed, if not regularly engaged as Artificers ought to receive extra compensation. You are at liberty to allow it—taking care to consult in every thing all reasonable œconomy.
You will not consider any observation in this letter as implying a censure on your report to the Secy of War. But merely as the manifestation of my desire to maintain principle. I am aware of the difficulty of communication which has arisen from the local situation of the Commanding General and I know well the strength of your attachment to military Order.
With great consideration   I am Sir   Your Obed serv


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 27 April 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York, April 27, 1799. “I have reflected on the idea of furnishing the Regimental Quarter Masters with money to procure Quarters Transportation &c for the Recruits. It is a service which in an extensive State (New York for example) he cannot execute personally. If he employs substitutes at the different Stations, as the Contractor must do so likewise for his objects, it will either, by employing jointly the same Agent every where, come to the same thing as if the Contractor were authorised to perform the service, or there will be an inconvenient multiplication of Agents. If he confides a portion of the money for the purpose to the principal recruiting Officer in each sub district, this will extend and complicate the pecuniary agency and accountability of those officers. In general, I consider this as a thing to be avoided; and as there will be a contractor whose care will embrace every subdistrict I return to the opinion that it will be most expedient to instruct him to comprise in it the objects above mentioned.…”