Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Underwood, 7 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Underwood, Thomas

            Sir,
            N York March 7th. 1800

          I have received your letter of the twentieth of February, but have delayed it to send it to the Department of War from the wish of receiving a further communication. If you are desirous of having being still indulged with leave of absence, under the hope of being able to join your regiment, I shall not refuse to gratify your wishes—In the mean time however you will make yourself known to some field officer in Virginia that I may be informed by him of your situa from time to time of your situation—
          Lt. Underwood—


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Kitchen, 7 March 1800
From: Kitchen, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            His Excellency Gen Hamilton &c. &c.
            Philadelphia, March 7, 1800

          James Kitchen of the City Tavern in Philaa. at the request of Amelia Geary begs leave to inform his Excellency General Hamilton that Morris Geary her Husband lived with him for a considerable time, until he was apprehended as a deserter from the Army under the command of Gen St. Clair, that during which he conducted himself as an honest & industrious man & gained the esteem of most gentlemen who frequented the House—& further begs his Excellency’s permission to observe that the Memorial signed Amelia Geary, is in every respect a true statement as far as his knowledge of the case extends—& further assures his Excellency that the Case of the unhappy man, as well as that of this family is considered by most of the Respectable Merchants in this City as extremely hard & distressing, & any act of clemency which in your Excellency’s goodness you might think proper to extend towards them, would I can positively declare be gratifying to numbers as well as to Sir Yr Excellency’s most Obt. & Hum Sert.

            Jas. Kitchen

            Phila—Mar. 7th. 1800


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Aaron Ogden, 7 March 1800
From: Ogden, Aaron
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            New York March 7—1800.

          Pursuant to yours of the 28th. Ultimo, I have made enquiry in the vicinity of the Cantonment, near the Scotch plains, for a house, or houses, that might be suitable, for the accomodation of sick, but cannot   find that any such are vacant, or to be procured.
          I have calculated the expence of building for each regiment, an hospital of 34 feet, in length, and 20 feet in width, enclosed and covered with boards, with a partition, and a Chimney in the center, so as to furnish two rooms on one floor, with one door, three windows and a fire-place, for each room, and find that hospital will cost, somewhat less, than 250 dollars, without under or upper floors,  and if an under floor be deemed necessary, it will encrease the expence, by 25 dollars, for each hospital.
          I consulted Colo. Smith as you requested, who had adopted the idea of two stories for each hospital, so as to have one upper room and one lower room—Upon reflection, however I venture, to submit an opinion, in favor of having both rooms on one floor, as above described.
          I have the honor to be with the utmost respect, & gratitude your mo. ob sert

            Aaron Ogden

          Major General Hamilton.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William S. Smith, 7 March 1800
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Major General Hamilton
            Sir.
            Union Brigade March 7th. 1800

          I addressed you about the 20th. ulto. on the Subject of Capt. Kirklands business, in consequence of the Letter received from you with its enclosures from Albany and in  a Letter of the 5th. mentioned the state of his health &c
          Solicitous however, to comply with your wishes, I have urged the necessity of his enabling me fully to state his situation and Conduct at the time, Mr. Gridley’s prosecution presented its-self—and have taken the liberty to assure him, in answer to the enclosed, that he need not be apprehensive, that any unpleasant Circumstance will take place, previous to his having an opportunity, to state the other side of the question; and that you would not “of his supposed Crimes, withold your leave, by Circumstance, to acquit himself” he is now proceeding as his health will admit—
          I have the Honor to be, with great respect Sir, Your most Obedt. Humble Servt.

            W. S. Smith Lt. Colo. of ye. 12th.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William S. Smith, 7 March 1800
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Major General Hamilton
            Sir.
            Union Brigade March 7th. 1800

          Capt. Samuel White of the 11th. Regt. has acted as Judge Advocate of all General Courts Martial, that have been held in this Brigade, he first commenced on the 2d. of Novr. is still by the orders of the 18th. ulto. instituting the General Court martial whereof Major Fondey is President designated by the General Orders to do that duty—I do myself the Honor to enclose a Copy of the Brigade orders first issued on the subject—and at the request of Capt. White, solicit your opinion whether any, & if any, what allowance will be made to him, for the discharge of this duty?
          From the Genl. orders of the 18th. ulto. I expected some prisoners, or Officers under arrest, would be ordered here—no one has presented himself If there are any to come forward, I should be obliged by information when I may expect them that I may arrange the Brigade duties accordingly
          I have the Honor to be Sir, Your most Obed Humble Servt.

            W. S. Smith Lt. Colo. of the 12th


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Caleb Swan, 8 March 1800
From: Swan, Caleb
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir.
            Philadelphia 8 March 1800

          I have received your letter of the 4 Instant.
          I have forwarded to Lt. Hugh McCall, whom I have appointed deputy Pay Master for So Carolina & Georgia, the Sum of 39.884. dollars, which he has received—9.884 dollars of the above Sum, is for the express purpose of recruiting the full complement of the 5th. regiment of Infantry, as directed in your letter of the 23d September, 1799—When I sent on this money, I suggested to the Deputy Pay Master, to pay but one half of the Sum for recruiting the 5th. regiment, into the hands of the Regimental Pay Master in the first instance—This was  a rule that prevailed here in regard to the other Regiments, and I supposed therefore, that it might be proper; And by Lt. McCalls letter to me, I find that he has paid 4.492 dollars of said recruiting Money, into the hands of Lt. William Taylor Pay Master to the 5 regiment, and retained the other half Viz 4.942. dollars, in his hands to be disposed of hereafter: As it is not likely that the whole of this money will be immediately expended in recruiting the 5th regiment; it is respectfully suggested, whether Major Freeman may not be furnished with 980 dollars, out of that Sum, for the purpose mentioned in your letter of the 4 Instant
          I have the Honor to be Very Respectfully Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

            C: Swan P.M. Genl.

          General Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Aaron Ogden, 8 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Ogden, Aaron

            Sir,
            New York March 8. 1800

          You will immediately adopt the necessary measures for building an hospitals with under floors for each Regiment now at the Union Cantonment according to the plan contained in your letter of the 7th instant. As you have no funds to discharge whatever expence may be incurred, in this instance, you are to apply to make use of the agency of the Contractor, who will must implicitly follow your directions.
          with true consideration &—
           Coll. Ogden


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John J. U. Rivardi, 8 March 1800
From: Rivardi, John J. U.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Niagara. March 8—1800

          The Clothing detained at Oswego arrived yesterday evening at this Post. I have the honor of inclosing a letter of the Serjeant whom I detached from here, also one of Mr Logan (the Gentleman who undertook the transportation—& the report of the Quartermaster stating the condition of the articles forwarded
          I considered myself tied & restricted by your letter of the 19th of February—in consequence of which I directed the Quarter Master to draw on the Deputy Qr. Mr General for no more than 150 Dlrs. untill I received further orders from you—I take however the liberty to represent that Mr. Logan’s readiness to undertake So Severe a task in order to accomodate this Garrison is not remunerated by the Sum above mentioned—he has to pay nearly that amount for the Second Sleigh which he hired—& his being a loser in this case would in my opinion injure both public Service & a man who by Captain Visschers Accounts has always been a zealous promoter of it—Polly the man who first agreed to bring the clothing here, informed me that it was left at one McMullen’s—probably in order to have a plan not to comply with his contract if he found it disadvantageous. the inclosed letters Sufficiently explain the remainder of that transaction—I promised Mr. Logan (who is a Justice of the peace at Oswego) that I would use my best endeavours to have his expenses deffraid & that I would inform him imediately of your answer—Also transmit a draft to whatever Amount you Should direct—
          That Gentleman living at Oswego & being known for his probity—I beg leave to represent that Should it not be contemplated to have an Officers Comand at that Post it would be advantageous for the preservation of the buildings & for the Safe forwarding of public Stores either to appoint him Assistant Quarter Master—or to give him leave to improve Some grounds round the Fort where he would reside—I conversed with him on the Subject & he Seemed pleased with the idea—observing furthermore that if Securities for the trust which would be reposed in him were wanted he would procure them. I have only to add that this Journey of 45 days through deep Snows has greatly impaired his health.
          With the Most respectfull consideration I have the honor to be Sir Your Most Obedient & very humble Servant

            J J Ulrich Rivardi

          Major General Alexander Hamilton

            NB As I was closing my letter, it met with an accident—which would have made me write it over—if Mr Logan was not in great haste—I hope you will have the goodness to admit this apology


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Lewis Tousard, 8 March 1800
From: Tousard, Lewis
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Philadelphia March 8th 1800

          I just receive a letter of Lt Dransy which I here inclose: The business for which he was Sent to Newport is far from being completed; and the usefulness of that officer who has already mounted ten Sea Coast Carriages, and has preparations for twenty more, is sufficiently obvious. who may continue the mounting as that officer can do? If it is necessary that an officer Should be Sent to his Company, and if you preserve the opinion that Newport harbour ought to be rendered respectable, I entreat that you would order an other officer to west point in his place and allow him to return to the place where he is employ’d to advantage, and where none but himself has my instructions for that duty; and none can better execute them—
          With the greatest respect I am Sir Your most obliged hble Servt

            Lewis Tousard

          Major General Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Samuel Hodgdon, 8 March 1800
From: Hodgdon, Samuel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Philadelphia 8th March 1800

          Your two letters of the 2d & 4th instant came to hand yesterday—The Clothing for Captains Brocks command equal to his requisition is on the way to him, it had been detained a few days on account of the difficulty of obtaining transportation—The Clothing for Major Freeman is ready—but you request me to “furnish to the order of Major Freeman”—is the transportation to be suspended until his order appears? I trust not, and therefore unless other wise advised, I shall forward it by the first Vessel that leaves this Port for Charleston—I will thank you to inform me whether any instructions have been given to the Pay Masters of Regiments whereby to regulate the delivery of the Regimental Clothing—some difficulties I find are experienced for want of a perfect understanding of the business.
          With respect and esteem, I am, Sir, Your Most Obedient Servant

            Samuel Hodgdon

          Genl A Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William S. Smith, 8 March 1800
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Major Genl. Hamilton
            Sir,
            Union Brigade March 8th. 1800.

          Agreably to your request I have made the necessary enquiries, relative to the enlistment of Levin Magee, I find that he left his fathers House, with an intention to enter on Board of Some ship, at Philadelphia, that he went there the latter part of June last or the beginning of July, but not finding a berth to his mind, he returned to Dover, determining to enter the army, that he presented himself to Captn. White a perfect Stranger—told him he wished to enter the service The Capt. enquired of him, how old he was, he answerd between 18. & 19—the Capt. finding him a handsome Promising young man, full 5 feet 6—enlisted him on the 8th. day of July at Dover—he is now a faithfull valuable Soldier—and so fond of the service that he swears he will never leave it—he is a great favourite with his Capt. & the Company who have the most unbounded Confidence in his honesty and integrity—he is trust worthy as a soldier to any extent—he will not consent to be removed upon any assertions relative to his age, he says they wish to trick him out of the service, but he knows his age as well as they do—he can do the duty of a Soldier with any man, & will not hear of going home.
          I waited your return from Albany to communicate the above—& since recollecting whether there was any question unreported, which you had requested should be, I found this unanswered—
          Soliciting your excuse for the delay—I have the Honor to be, with great respect—Sir Your most Obedt. Humble Servt.

            W. S. Smith Lt. Colo. of
            ye. 12th.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Aaron Ogden, 9 March 1800
From: Ogden, Aaron
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir.
            Elizabeth Town March 9th. 1800

          I have lately learned, that Captain Cole of the 11th regiment, has solicited from you, that his resignation might be accepted—he had previously notified me by letter of an intention to resign on the first day of the present month, since which he has not addressed me—believing, however, that he considered his communication to me, as sufficiently formal, I have to join him, in his request, that it may be accepted accordingly.
          I have the honor to be with entire respect your mo. ob. servt.

            Aaron Ogden

          Major General Alexander Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Caleb Swan, 10 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Swan, Caleb

            (To be copied)
            Sir,
            N York March 10. 1800

          I have received your letter of the eighth instant.
          As it is probable, from the existing state of things, that the money forwarded for the recruiting of the fifth regiment will not be wanted for that purpose, I approve your proposal of furnishing Major Freeman with Nine hundred and eighty dollars out of that sum.
          W—
          Caleb Swan Esqr.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to David Hopkins, 10 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hopkins, David

            Sir
            N York March 10th. 1800

          I have received your letter of the twenty eighth of February.
          The relative rank of the Field Officers has never come under my consideration—I have reason to believe it was referred to the late Commander in Chief, but what progress he made in settling it, I know not—All I can do in your case is to send your letter to the Secretary of War by whom, under the direction of the President, the matter subje Arrangement, I presume, will be finally adjusted.
           Major Hopkins


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Samuel Hodgdon, 10 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hodgdon, Samuel

            (To be copied)
            Sir,
            N York March 10th. 1800

          I have received your letter of the eigth instant.
          I did not intend that you should wait for the order of Major Freeman, but, merely, that you should send the Clothing to some person to be delivered to the order of that Officer.
          No directions have been given to the Regimental Pay Masters with respect to the delivery of Clothing—I would thank you to give me for your ideas on the subject, and I shall be ready to second them towards the establishment of some regular system. on the subject
          You will inform me of the precise quantity of Clothing forwarded to Captain Brock—
           Saml. Hodgdon Esr—


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John H. Buell, 10 March 1800
From: Buell, John H.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Bennington March 10th. 1800

          I have been honored with yours of the 26th. Ulto. I have also received the General Order of the 1st. Instant which dissolves the General Court Martial of which Capt. McClary was president, had not this been the case I should have thought myself authorised to have substituted Capt. Bissel as president and ordered the Court to sit again for the trial of two Villians one of which is said to have deserted from Capt Pratt some years since at Middletown in Connecticut, and Enlisted at this Rendezvous and received his Bounty and is now in Gaol in this Town—And the other Deserted from Capt. Bissel at Westminster after having been fairly Enlisted and received his Bounty and is now in Gaol at New Fane—
          It appears to me Sir that the good of the Recruiting Service requires those two Fellows to be immediately tried and if found guilty to be made an Example—
          Should you see proper to order a General Court Martial and appoint Capt. Bissel president with directions for me to detail the Court as before and also to direct where the Court shall sit, it might save a great deal of Trouble Travail if Officers of the 16th. Regiment can be members of this Court (of which I have no doubt) it might be formed at Westminster without much trouble and can be even if the Court was to made up out of my Command—It would not occasion one third of the travail that it would to sit in this Town—
          Permit me Sir to state to you that this Town is in the southwest Corner of the state that all my Recruiting Rendezvous (Bennington excepted) is on the other side of the Mountain which is forty miles across and the worst road without exception that I have ever Travailed, whereas was I on the other side of the Mountain I should not only save the Mountain but should be 40 Miles nigher each Post—Westminster or Windsor is the place where all the stores for the Troops ought to be sent, upon the most moderate Calculations it cost the Public four times as much to take a Ton weight from Bennington to Westminster or Windsor as it would from New York to Westminster, and the transportation from either of those places to Newbury would not be half as much as from Bennington to Newbury, I have thought it my duty Sir to give you this Information and should it be your Choice for me to Remain here I am satisfied if you should think best for me to take my Quarters across the Mountain at Westminster or Windsor Leaving an Officer here I shall be satisfied to go immediately there con as the roads will soon be almost impassable—Conveyance of Letters by Mail to New York is about the same from those places as from this—
          I have lately returned from Visiting the different Recruiting Posts we have got upwards of forty of the best Recruits I have ever seen not one over thirty five and very few over twenty five, they are fine handsome Green Mountains Boys, If we are to Recruit more than two Companies we shall want more Clothing by the time it can be made and forwarded—I have not a doubt but we can get a full Battalion if Required—
          The General Orders of the first Instant does not mention what is to be done with the two Soldiers which were tried Prentice was Enlisted for our Regiment I take it for granted that he is to remain with me. Hall the Drummer Belongs to the first Regt. of Artillery—Shall he be sent to that Regt., to the 16th. or shall he remain with me. he is a very serviceable man and is a very serviceable man great acqusition to our Recruiting—I have been told that there is a Law making provision for Officers which are obliged to travel, if so I have not Received it I have made a point of giving Orders on the Contractor for transportation of Officers going to their Different Recruiting Rendezvous and also to and from the General Court Martial, I wish Sir for your directions on this point—
          Enclosed is the Desription of a Deserter from this place and the only Instance except the one now in Gaol
          I have the honor to remain Sir with the greatest Respect Your Humbl. Servt.

            John H. Buell Major
             U.S. 2d. Regt. Infy.

          Major Genl. Hamilton—


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Alexander D. Pope, 11 March 1800
From: Pope, Alexander
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Fort Jay 11 Mar. 1800

          The bearer Serjt. Slaughter is anxious to quit the service in consequence of the repeated solicitations of his Friends in Virga. (who are very respectable.) They have remitted him a sum of money for the purpose of procuring a substitute, which he has done, the man that now accompanies him is the person—The above mentioned Mr Slaughter stands highly recommended at the War Office for a Cadetcy, by a number of respectable Characters in Virga. & likewise  by the Officers whom he served under for the Term of three Years in the Southern County.
          Should you be pleased Sir, to give your consent to his discharge, we shall ever consider it as a singular act of beneficence done Mr. Slaughter
          We are with great respect Sir

            Alexr. D Pope Lt.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Caleb Swan, 11 March 1800
From: Swan, Caleb
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir.
            Philadelphia March 11. 1800.

          I take the liberty of enclosing to you a letter received from Captain Stoddard of the artillery. having done some business with him in my line, I have always found him intelligent and correct. but I have little personal acquaintance with him having seen him only once or twice. I have however heard that he is a man of talents and education and the enclosed letter appears to be a favorable Comment on this report. I have the honor to be very respectfully Sir your  most obedient Humble Servt

            C: Swan PMG

          Major Genl Alexr Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Bruff, 11 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Bruff, James

            Sir:
            NY. March 11th. 1800

          I have received your letter of the tenth of January.
          The arrangement of the companies of Artillery was not dictated by any circumstances injurious to your character. It proceeded from the principal design desire of avoiding the expence that would have been incurred in the transportating of troops from the places where they were stationed to other posts. I am not aware that the idea of rank is carried so far in any service as you appear to think it ought to have been carried in the present case; considering fortified posts places as  Regiments or batalions & disposing making the flanks posts of honor—
          The Contractor did wrong in refusing to pay the rent of quarters for yourself and men—You will see exhibit your the account to the new Contractor, and, if he declines settling it, send it on to the Accountant of the War Department with the necessary vouchers—This is the course to be pursued in such cases.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 11 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

            Sir,
            NY. March 11th. 1800—

          Enclosed is an account which has been sent me by Mr. Dayton the Contractor for New Jersey.
          The object of this account received my sanction previously to it’s being carried into effect. I presume there will be a difficulty in allowing it—as was nothing in the execution but what was proper. As to the amount, Mr. Dayton, I suppose, will produce vouchers to shew that, it is not unreasonable the expenditure took place.
          I have none of the contracts for the year Eighteen hundred except those — with Mess — and Dayton and OHara—I would thank you to have the rest forwarded to me—
          Enclosed is a letter I have received from Lieut. S. W. Church—I do not recollect to have been informed by you that this Gentleman’s resignation is accepted—If it is I would thank you to inform me, and I will communicate it to Mr. — Church.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Brinley, 11 March 1800
From: Brinley, Col. Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Newport March 11th. 1800

          In the United States Calender for 1800. I have observed a list of the Army which professes to be generally accurate in respect to rank, & in which I find my name the third on the list of Lieutenants in the 16th. Regiment. Being ignorant from what authority the arrangement there given is derived I have not known precisely what degree of credibility it deserves. Recollecting the information you Sir gave me when I had the honor of waiting on you on the subject last summer that I stood first on the list of Lieutenants I cannot help flattering myself that this arrangement of rank is incorrect, or at any rate has taken place without your knowledge. Being thus situated and anxious to relieve  my self from the solicitude which the apprehension of such an event occasions, I have thought it expedient to address you on the subject and to request your further interference in my behalf so far as circumstances may warrant.
          With sentiments of the highest respect I am Sir, Your very obedient Humble servant

            Thos. Brinley
            Lieut 16th. Regiment


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Bullit, 12 March 1800
From: Bullit, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Major Genl. Hamilton
            Sir
            Lancaster 12 March 1800

          Agreeably to your letter of the 12th. Novmr 1799 dated New York which I receved in Kentucky; I came forward as soon as I could with conveniencne to the Secrety of War—Where I reced. my commision and also information that I was not intitled to any expence for traveling—And that by letter I could receve instructions from you—
          Upon this information I demined to return to W. Virga. at Morefield where I will receve any Orders You may give and obey them with pleasure & I hope with punctuality—If it is Agreable I wish to be attached to Capt Edward T Turner’s Compy for this reason that in my opinion that I could serve the United States by recruting men in the Country whar I am well accquainted and very Certain of Success
          Your Orders if diferent I will Chearfully Comply with being my duty which I never wish to loose sight of
          Your Obt Servt.

            Benjn Bullit 2d Let
            to the Sec Regt. US. Ar


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Daniel Jackson, 12 March 1800
From: Jackson, Daniel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Newport 12th. March 1800

          I have received your favour of the 1st inst. respecting double rations, also two of the 3d one favouring me with your opinion on the proceedings of a Garrison Court Martial; the other enclosing a Certificate that Elihue Eggleston Jur. a Soldier in the 2d Regt. of Artills. & Engineers was an apprentice to Messr. Jones & Tuttle—all which shall be complyed with according to your direction.
          I also have received your letter of the 5th. March enclosing me Dr. Water Hunewill’s appointment, which I shall forward immediately. I found daily a considerable expense arising for the want of a Surgeons Mate here—and gave directions for Dr. Oliver Hubbard at Portland to proceed for this place—I wish if Dr. Hunewill accepts his appointment, to have the liberty to order him for, that place, which I have alredy suggested & which I am inhops will meet your approbation.
          I am Sir with the greatest pleasure Yr obt. & huml. Servt.

            D Jackson

          Major Genl. Hamilton.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Aaron Ogden, 12 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Ogden, Aaron

            Sir
            New-York March 12th. 1800

          After learning from the Contractor what has been done. You will cause to be deliver’d, without delay, at Union Camp, such quantity of wood, as shall be sufficient, with what has been already received, to make up their complement to the 15th. of April next, according to the regulations prescribed by the War Department.
          With great consideration I am Sir Yr. ob. Servt.

            A Hamilton

           Colo. Ogden—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 12 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

            Sir,
            New York March 12th. 1800

          I have received a letter dated February 25th. 1800 last month from Colonel Parker requesting a certificate of my having directed him to lay out the State of Virginia into districts. the certificate I have made out adding to it my knowledge of the orders he has received from General Washington respecting the cantonment at Harpers ferry. in executing the above orders he has incurred considerable expence and it is but just that he should be reimbursed. in his letter he states From his letter it appears in execution making the division of Virginia he was obliged to ride 350 miles his compensation as to that point will no doubt be such as is pointed out by the regulation for travelling expences.
          I send the within certificate to you, as not appertaining now to  your department that to the Paymaster General’s department, and not thinking it proper to write to the Accountant on the Subject.
          I have the honor to inclose an account sent to me by the Governor of the N York Hospital
          with great respect &c
           Secretary of War


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Parker, 12 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Parker, Thomas

            Sir,
            New York March 12. 1800

          I have received your letter of February 25th. and have forwarded the certificate you requested to the Secretary of War
          with true consideration &c
           Colonel Parker


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus Graves, 12 March 1800
From: Graves, Rufus
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Exeter March 12th 1800

          A question has arisen respecting the relative Rank of the Platoon Officers of the different Regiments. Some have supposed, that, when Officers are of the same grade, their relative Rank in their respective Regiments being the same, and the dates of their Commissions the same, that the Number of the Regiment determins the Rank, reckoning the lowest Number highest in Rank. Others have supposed that the Number of the Regiment determins  nothing, and that when all other things are equal, the Rank must be equal.
          It has been strongly asserted that the tenth Captain in the 14th Regiment will take Rank of the first Captain in the 15th or 16th and so on through out the line; and I perceive that serious consequnces may arise on this subject
          Permit me Sir to suggest whether a General Order explanatory of the Matter would not be requisite—
          I have the honor to be with very great Respect Sir—your obedient and very humble Sert

            R Graves Lt Col. Com. 16 Regt

          Major General Hamilton—


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William North, 12 March 1800
From: North, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Adj Gens Office Mar 12 1800

          I have the honor to present a Gen Abstract of Monthly recruiting returns for the month of february—by a letter from Lt Col Comdr Rice, I am informed that until an Inspector should be appointed he has designated Capt Dunham, who, he says  “is an active Officer, & genteel well Educated man” to Inspect the troops under his Command.
          With the Greatest respect I am, Sir, Your Obt Ser

            W. North
            Adj Gen

          Hon Maj Gen Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Miller, 13 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Miller, James

            Sir,
            NY. March 13th. 1800

          As the company to which Lieutenant Fergus belongs is ordered to this quarter, you will vary the orders directions, with respect to his transportation so as to cause him to be brought to New York instead of Alexandria.
          Jas. Miller Esr.—


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 13 March 1800
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            War Department March 13. 1800.

          I have received your letters of the 11. instant.
          You will be pleased to inform Captain Cole that the President has accepted his resignation, and that his pay and emoluments cease on the 20 instant
          I wrote you on the 21. August last respecting Samuel Winter Church a duplicate of which I enclose
          I am Sir with great respect Your obed servant

            James McHenry

          Major Genl. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Samuel Hodgdon, 13 March 1800
From: Hodgdon, Samuel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Philadelphia, 13th. March. 1800.

          I have received your letter of the 10th. instant—By letters received I find the paymasters of Regiments suppose their duty as it relates to the Clothing is done when they have received and delivered it intire to the commanding Officers of the respective Companies, whose duty they conceive it is to deliver it to the men as they needs and other circumstances require—they urge in support of this opinion that it is well Known that other duties will not admit of their making individual deliveries, and therefore is not expected or required of them. The Captains say they cannot receive the Clothing due the absent men as they have not the means of transportation, and if they had it would be more exposed to peculation, detention and damage than in the hands and under the Gross care of the paymaster. suppose then it were ordered, that the Paymasters in all practical cases deliver the Companies Clothing intire to the respective Captains or Commanding Officers—but when any of the men are detached the Clothing of such should be held by the Paymaster until returns from the commanding Officers are presented, specifying the Clothing due to the detached men, and requesting him to forward it to them—this would in degree cure the evil complained of by both parties, and enable the Paymasters with ease and accuracy to settle the Regiments account—He will always Know when the men have received their dues and would effectually prevent an Overdraw should it be attempted.
          I have had a Hat and Coat for Infantry, made agreeably to the form contemplated in the plan for an altered Uniform—they really have a martial appearance, but they will considerably add to the expense of those articles under the old form. I wish it were possible to dispense with the order of Congress that directs the supply of four pairs of Shoes to the men yearly, and in the room have three pairs at the expense of the four substituted—the public would not be insured by the alteration, but the Men would reap an immense advantage by being well Shod for the year:
          I am, Sir, very respectfully your most Obedient Servant—

            Samuel Hodgdon—

          General Alexander Hamilton—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 14 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

            Sir,
            N York March 14th. 1800

          The enclosed commission and letter have been sent to me by Colonel Rice who mentions, as the principal motive of Lieutenant Spring in offering to resign, the very uncertain ground on which the military establishment, at present, stands. I would thank you to enable me speedily to inform this Gentleman of the decision in his case.
          Enclosed are the Proceedings of a Court Martial held convend at Fort Adams on the 28th. of December, of which Captain John Henry was President; those of a Court Martial h convened at Fort Mifflin on the fourth of March, of which Captain Elliot was President; and those of one convened at Bennington on the tenth of February, of which Captain McClary was President.
          Enclosed likewise is an extract from Col. Rice’s letter relative to Doctor Barron—I should be glad to be enabled to inform Col. Rice whether this Gentleman will be appointed, or if not whether he will receive a quantum meruit for his services. A prompt decision is necessary in order that Doctor Barron, if not appointed, may continue no longer   in his present situation             with the regiment—
           S of War—


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 14 March 1800
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            War Department, 14 March 1800.

          I transmit a Letter from a Soldier at Fort Sumner soliciting his Discharge from the Service. You will be pleased to take such Order upon it, as it may require.
          I have the Honour to be Sir, Your most obedt Servt.

            James McHenry

          Maj. Genl Alexander Hamilton.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Walker, 14 March 1800
From: Walker, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Oxford March 14th. 1800

          Private business of importance to me, requires my immediate attention. I have therefore to beg your permition to be absent from my duty at this Post, five, or six weeks. I should not ask the indulgence, if I thought the service would suffer. Major Winslow is Present,
          I have the honor to be with sentiments of the highest respect and esteem your most Obedient humble Servent

            Jno. Walker Major 14th Regt. Infantry

          Major Genl. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Porter, 14 March 1800
From: Porter, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Bennington State Vermont March 14th. 1800

          I received yours this day dat’d the 20 Febr’y 1800, I arriv’d at this place on the 10 of Jan’y last & with difficulty. I have learnt Since that at which time I ought of Informed you my arrivel &c my being a young officer and unacquaintd. with the Business did not now  that It was necessary, which I hope you pardon.
          I am much pleas’d. my Commanding officers & Particular with Majr. Buell who has treat’d me with the greatest friendship &c—
          If I have neglectd. any part of my duty It was for the want of Information and I am Sorry for it but flatter myself that I will soon require it &c
          I am Sir, with respect your most Obedent & most Humble Sar’t

            Thomas Porter


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Elias B. Dayton, 15 March 1800
From: Dayton, Elias
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Elizabeth Town 15th. March 1800

          As it will be necessary for the passing my accounts at the War Office, that my expenditures for materials &c. under the orders of Colo. Smith, should be known to have been sanctioned by your instructions I now take the liberty, sir, of begging a few lines from you to that effect.
          Of the most important articles furnishd. by me for the purpose of the Cantonment the quantities are as follows—Boards about twenty five thousand, Plank two hundred & seventy five, Bricks two hundred & twenty four thousand, Stone four hundred loads & Nails four thousand five hundred pounds.
          I am sir, with the greatest respect Your very humbl. servt.

            E. B. Dayton

          Major General Hamilton.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William S. Smith, 15 March 1800
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Major General Hamilton
            Sir.
            Union Brigade March 15th. 1800

          I have the honor of Submitting to your perusal, a Letter addressed to me by Capt. Kirkland—and an examination of Doctor Douglass—and Sergeant Chase—to which I beg leave to refer you, as explanatory of the Circumstances which took place, between Capt. Kirkland & Mr. Gridley, as stated in the affidavits which you forwarded and requested me to enquire into—and report—
          I have the Honor to be, with great respect—Sir, Your most Obedt. Humble Servt.

            W. S. Smith Lt. Colo. of ye. 12th


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Nehemiah Freeman, 16 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Freeman, Nehemiah

            Sir,
            New York March 16. 1800

          A private by the name of Carlton belonging to your company called upon me yesterday and presented me with an account against the United States of 20 dollars for the apprehension of two Deserters, he informed me that he was on leaving Harpers Ferry directed by you to make application to me for my signature to the account, if so, I must observe it would have been proper for you to have made some communication to me on the Subject.
          The following are the instructions I endorsed upon his account. The Paymaster proper course, when such cases as the within occur, is for the paymaster of the Regiment to pay for the apprehension of Deserters out of the unappropriated funds which he may have on hand, and when a Company is detached from its Regiment the person appointed with for the payment of it, is vested with the like authority.
          with true consideratn S—
          Captn. Freeman


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Daniel Jackson, 17 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jackson, Daniel

            Sir,
            New York March 17. 1800

          I send you the inclosed petition from Jabez Wilson. You will enquire into the truth of his statement, to which if credit is to be given, and he is able to perform what he has promised, upon your reporting the same to me his discharge will be granted.
          with true consideration &c
          Major Jackson


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elias B. Dayton, 17 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Dayton, Elias

            Sir,
            N York March 17th. 1800

          I have received your letter of the fifteenth instant—
          You will send me a Certificate of Colonel Smith Stating the precise quantities of the different articles furnished, and I shall then be ready to say that they were furnished by my direction—
          Elias B. Dayton Esr.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 17 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

            Sir
            NY. March 17th. 1800

          The enclosed letter is left open for your perusal—
          It has appeared to me proper to issue this order as the troops ought not to be entirely destitute of ammunition.  An order has been lately given at Harper’s ferry for a guard to conduct — French prisoners. A guard is now furnished from the troops at Harper’s ferry to take care of some French prisoners at Frederick Town—This guard ought to carry some ammunition with them I mention this as one case that has occurred—others of a similar kind may be expected to occur—
          The discipline of the troops likewise requires that there should be a supply of ammunition on hand subject to the orders of the commanding officer as a security against mutiny—
          S of Wr


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Samuel Hodgdon, 17 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hodgdon, Samuel

            (This letter to be kept untill one is written to S of War in which it is to be sent open)
            Sir,
            NY. March 17th. 1800

          You will — send to Harper’s ferry, subject to the orders of General Pinckney, a supply quantity of fixed ammunition equal to a supply field supply of four four pounders, and a regiment of Infantry. You will also send to the Union — Brigade, subject to the order of Col. Smith a quantity of fixed ammunition equal to a field supply of two six pounders and a battallion of Infantry. The same quantity will be sent to oxford subject to the order of Col. Rice.
          Mr. Hodgdon—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William S. Smith, 17 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Smith, William Stephens

            Sir,
            NY. March 17. 1800

          The Secr. of War informs me that the resignation of Captain Cole is accepted and that his pay and emoluments are to cease on the 20th instant—You will have this communicated to Captain Cole thro’ the Commandt. of his Regt.
          C. Smith—


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Miller, 17 March 1800
From: Miller, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Philadelphia 17th March 1800

          I have had the Honour of receiving your favour’s of the 13th. Instt. I have this Day forwarded the inclosures for Major Freeman & Capt. Huger per a Vessel that sails to-morrow—Agreeably to your instructions I have also wrote to Lieut. Fergus & Griffiths J: McCrea Esqr. Wilmington No. Carolina to vary the destination of the Troops for Alexandria, Virginia, and find Transportation for them direct for New-York
          I am Sir With the utmost Respect Your Obedt servt.

            Jas Miller
            Agt. Qr Mr Gl.

          Majr Genl Hamilton.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Samuel Hodgdon, 17 March 1800
From: Hodgdon, Samuel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Intendant’s Office, War Department, 17. March 1800.

          Agreeably to your request, I now inform you that Clothing for a full Company of Recruits, to the address of Major Freeman is on board Captn. German’s Ship, which sails shortly for Charleston. I have written to the Major to advise him they are forwarded in consequence of your requisition for the recruiting service.
          I am, Sir, very respectfully, Your most Obedient servant

            Samuel Hodgdon

          General Hamilton—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Caleb Swan, 18 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Swan, Caleb

            Sir,
            NY. March 18th. 1800

          I have received a copy of a letter from Col. Hamtramck to G. Wilkinson which contains the enclosed paragraph—It is sent to you for your information.
          C. Swan Esr—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 18 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

            Sir,
            N.Y. March 18th. 1800

          Inclosed are the Proceedings of a General Court Martial held at Union Camp of which Major Fondy was President—
          With great respect I am, Sir,
          Secy. of War—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John H. Buell and Jonathan Cass, 18 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Buell, John H.,Cass, Jonathan

            Sir,
            New York March 18. 1800

          It is my intention that the Recruits the different detachments under your command may have recruited inlisted, shall be early in the next month ordered to join their Regiments. You will therefore direct them to meet at the District Rendezvous, that they may be in readiness to proceed.
          with true consideration &
          Majors Cass & Buell.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Samuel Hodgdon, 18 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hodgdon, Samuel

            Sir,
            New York March 18th. 1800.

          I have just received a Copy of a letter from Colonel Hamtramck to General Wilkinson, containing the enclosed paragraph.
          Col: Stevens is, at present, absent from this City, but, I presume, he has communicated the matter to you. I would thank you to inform me whether this has been done, and what measures have been taken in the case.
          It is very unpleasant that execution of requisitions of this kind should be long delayed.
          With great consideration I am Sir Yr. obt Servant

            A Hamilton

          Saml. Hodgdon—


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Elias B. Dayton, 19 March 1800
From: Dayton, Elias
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Elizabeth Town 19. ——

          I have been honored with —— of the 17th. Inst. and now enclose a list of materials which I have furnished for the cantonment to the last of February to which time my — have been made up & forwarded to the War Office.
          I had before procured Colo. Smith’s certificate that the articles were furnished by his orders & forwarded it, with my accounts, to the office of the Accountant, who has suggested the necessity of obtaining your authority for the supplies before my accounts could be finally passed.
          I am sir respectfully Your most obdt. servt

            E. ——

          Major Genl. Hamilton.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Read, 19 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Read, James (d. 1803)

            Sir,
            New York March 19. 1800

          I shall defer settling the relative Rank of the Captains only, untill all the officers of your Regiment can be included in the arrangement, I wish you to state to me for effecting which,  I request ———— your opinion as to the merit of the different officers and  that you would at the same time state the particular reasons for the alterations in the rank of the Captains, as contained in your letter of Feby. 16th.
          with true consideration &—
          Colonel Read.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Stille, 19 March 1800
From: Stille, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Fort Jay 19th. March 1800—

          At an interview I had some time since the honor of having with you I obtained a partial promise that my Company which is but about thirty strong, should be completed out of the Recruits which my Second Lt. Patrick Harris has enlisted in N. Carolina and which I am informed are with him at Fort Johnson in that State—
          I need not say Sir that it is a mortifying thing to be intitled to a Company and to have not even half an one which has been my case ever since I have been in service—
          I am Sir with the greatest respect Your obt. servt.

            J. Stille Capt. 2 Regt. A&E.

          Majr. Genl. Hamilton—


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Emerson, 19 March 1800
From: Emerson, Oliver
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Portland 19th March 1800

          Since I had the honor to receive my appointment, as Cadet in the 15th Regiment, I find my pay and emoluments are not sufficient to support me, from this circumstance, and many others, it renders it very inconvenient and injurious, to my interest, to continue in the service. If it’s agreeable to you I shou’d wish to receive a discharge, having consulted the Commanding Officer of the Regiment and obtained his consent to make this request.
          I have the honor to be with great respect Sir your obedt. huml Servt.

            Oliver Emerson

          Major General Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William S. Smith, 19 March 1800
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Major General Hamilton
            Sir.
            Union Brigade March 19th. 1800

          I am much incommoded by the Conduct of Store keepers, who have built small Houses, near the line—I have centinels posted near to prevent soldiers going in their houses, but it has very little effect—by the enclosed reports of the officers of the day, you will notice in part the Conduct of these people—will you favour me with your advice, how I can treat them?
          I have the honor to be with great respect Sir, Your most Obedt Humble Servt.

            W. S. Smith Lt. Colo. of ye. 12th


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Caleb Swan, 20 March 1800
From: Swan, Caleb
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir.
            Philadelphia March 20. 1800.

          I beg leave to ask your opinion on the following point ie. whether a soldier who deserts, is retaken, punished, and returned to duty; forfeits to the united States, by the mere act of deserting, and without the interference of a Court martial, all the pay that might be previously due to him, or not?
          I have examined the articles of war and the several military laws, but can find no decision of the above question. I shall be much obliged by your answer.
          I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Sir Your Obt. Servt

            C: Swan PMG.

          Genl. Alexr Hamilton, New York


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 20 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

            Sir,
            N York March 20th. 1800

          I enclose to you a letter which I have received from Mr. Titcomb Cadet in the second regiment of Artillerists & Engineers.
          Major Jackson speaks very favorably of this Gentleman, and, I doubt not, you will consider the letter as a handsome not an ill specimen of his abilities.
          The occasional appointment of Cadets to vacancies that occur is necessary to the end of their establishment. Without it this the corps would want dignity, and respectable characters would not enter it—It would therefore not answer the purpose of furnishing the elements of Officers.
          S of War


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Brinley, 20 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Brinley, Col. Thomas

            Sir,
            N York March 20th 1800

          I have received your letter of the eleventh instant—Your name stands first of on the list of first Lieutenants—This you would, doubtless, soon have been informed of by the Commandant of the regiment—
          Lt. Brindley


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William S. Smith, 20 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Smith, William Stephens

            Sir,
            New York March 20. 1800

          I have understood that the relative rank of the Officers of your regiment has not yet been  communicated to them; as you  may probably withold it from an idea of its not having yet received my final approbation, you will view the arrangement upon which we formerly agreed as decisive, with the single alteration, of Captain G. Kirkland’s being placed next in rank to Captain A. White
          with true consideration &

            Captain Kissams Resignation has been accepted, of which you have not I believe been informed.

          Colonel Smith


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John F. Hamtramck, 20 March 1800
From: Hamtramck, John F.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Pitts Burgh March the 20th 1800

          I have the honor to inclose you a Copy of my last letter to Gen Wilkinson,
          I have the honor to be Sir with Very great Respect your Most obedient and Very humble Servent

            J F Hamtramck

          Major Gen. Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 21 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

            Sir,
            NY. March 21—1800

          I have received your letter of the eighteenth instant, and written the enclosed, in consequence, to Major Rivardi—
          S of War.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 21 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

            Sir,
            New York March 21st. 1800

          I have the honor to inclose a letter from Mr Samuel Davis, and request your instructions respecting the answer to be given. Should he by his delay in the acceptance of his appointment, not be entitled to it, his loss will be of no great detriment to the Service his loss, will serve judging from his letter, will not perhaps be unfortunate for the service.
          with great respect Sir
          Secretary of War—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Wilkinson, 21 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wilkinson, James

            Sir,
            NY. March 21st. 1800

          The enclosed letter of which the enclosed is a copy has been sent directly to Major Rivardi, the urgency of the case not admitting of a circuitous route—

          G. Wilkinson—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John H. Buell, 21 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Buell, John H.

            Sir,
            NY. March—21—1800

          Enclosed is a copy of a letter which I have written to the Secretary of war relative to the charge of double rations made by you and Col. Strong—
          Major Bewell


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Walker, 21 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Walker, John

            Sir,
            New York March 21th 1800

          I have received your letter of the 14. instant and have referred the application contained therein to Colonel Rice
          with true consideration &—
          Major Walker—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Bullit, 22 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Bullit, Benjamin

            Sir,
            New York March 22. 1800

          It is very extraordinary that you should, after receiving my letter of 12 November, which directs you to repair to this place New York, pursue such measures as you appear to have done by your letter of the 15. instant.
          I now repeat my desire of your immediately repairing to this place and reporting yourself to me on your arrival.
          with true consideration &c
          Lieutt. Bullit


Title: Petition of Amelia Gary, 22 March 1800
From: Gary, Amelia
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            To His Excellency Alexander Hamilton, Esqr. Commander in Chief the Army of the United States of America

            The Petition of Amelia Gary
            Humbly sheweth,
            Philadelphia, March 22, 1800

          That your petitioner, the unhappy wife of Morris Gary is burdened with three small Children, whose very existence at present in a degree depends upon the weak efforts of a frame enfeebled by pregnant grief at the misfortunes brought on her by an imprudent Husband, and her inability to supply the craving wants of her little innocents. That that grief is in no small degree augmented by the reflection that she was at the time of her marriage to her said Husband, the Father of her children, totally ignorant of his having deserted from the Army of the United States.
          That therefore she takes the liberty of laying her case before your Excellency and of praying you to extend such relief in the premises by mitigating the punishment to which her Husband is sentenced, or restoring him at once to her and her helpless Children, as in your wisdom shall seem meet.
          And as in duty bound will ever pray &c

            Amelia Gary

            Philadelphia 22d. March 1800


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jonathan Cass, 22 March 1800
From: Cass, Jonathan
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Wilmington Delaware March 22 1800

          Your order of the 18th. I have this moment received, respecting the assembling my Recruits.
          I am, Sir, with great respect & esteem, your most obedient servt.

            Jona. Cass Major 3d. R. In

          Major Genl Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Campbell Smith, 23 March 1800
From: Smith, Campbell
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Philada March 23d. 1800

          I have the honor to inform you that I yesterday received a letter from Lieut. Col. Butler desiring me as soon as possible to join the 4th Regiment as soon as possible—that having from the conversation I had with the Colonel before he left town anticipated this order, I applied a few days since to the Paymaster General for the settlement of my account, to the end of this month and have been refused—I must hope your interference Sir and that you will order me to be paid to enable me to proceed—I think it would be but justice too that I should receive the promotion, to which by the custom of our Army, I have become intitled by the resignation of Capt. Thomson of the 4th. Regiment some time since
          In the expectation of a line from you I am—With the highest consideration, Sir your most obdt Servt

            Campbell Smith


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William S. Smith, 23 March 1800
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Major General Hamilton
            Sir.
            Union Brigade March 23d. 1800

          I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Letters of the 18th. and 20th. inst. I will immediately make arrangements to have the experiments made on the proper measure of the pace recommended, and report the result—
          With respect to the relative rank of the officers of the 12th. I have always acted upon that which I received from you, as decisive, making the subsequent alteration of Capt. Kirklands being placed next in rank to Capt. A. White, I am however at present unacquainted with Lt. Vrooman’s proper station, I should wish to be informed of it, previous to his joining the Regt. I have the honor to be Sir—with great respect, Your most obedt. Humble Servt.

            W. S. Smith Lt. Colo. of ye. 12th.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 24 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

            Sir,
            NY. March 24. 1800

          I have received your letter of the twenty first instant enclosing the petition of a soldier for his discharge. The principle on which the petition is founded would apply to the whole almost all the married men who have enlisted or may be disposed to enlist.
          This being the case I do not think it would be proper to grant a discharge—
          S of War


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Wilkins, Jr., 24 March 1800
From: Wilkins, John, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Pittsburgh 24th. March 1800

          I have been honoured with your two letters of the 26th. February ul. & the 6th. instant, received last post.
          I have with great satisfaction sanctioned the appointment of Lt. Colonel Ogden as Deputy Quarter Master General—I consider the acquisition of his services as very important to the department.
          I would with great pleasure appoint Captain B. Shaumberg, a Brigade Quarter Master, as I know him to be an officer of distinguished merit, & well calculated for the appointment; but the Law requires that the Brigade Quarter Master shall not be of a rank higher than that of a first Lieutenant—The “Act for the better organizing of the Troops of the United States, & for other purposes” Section the 7th. “That no officer shall be appointed &c. as the Quarter Master of a Brigade, who when appointed shall be of a rank higher than that of first Lieutenant”
          I have written to General Wilkinson stating this objection, & shall wait your farther instructions on this subject.
          I have the honour to be, Sir, with the greatest respect your very Humble St

            Jno. Wilkins Jr
            Qr Mast Genl

          Major General Alexander Hamilton New York.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Timothy Taylor, 24 March 1800
From: Taylor, Timothy
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Danbury March 24 1800

          From the solicitation —— Cadwell a Man of some resp—— the County of Hartford, I am ——— to  your Honor that he has — enlisted into the 13th. Regiment one by the name of Matthew & the other Justus Cadwell, the first has served in the Western Army and has become a desolute charector, he is now a deserter from the Regt., the other appears to be a likely young man, is a Corporal in Capt. Miegs Company—the Father is extremely anxious to obtain his discharge from the service, (as you will see by his letters which he wished me to inclose,) and has enlisted a Man by the name of Abner B. Chapel the barer of this letter for that purpose; he is engaged for and during the existing differences or for five years, at the option of Goverment; provided he can be accepted in the place of Justus Cadwell—As I do not feel myself authorised to make the exchange, I beg leave to request your decision upon the Subject, if it should take place Chapel will go immediately to the Regt. and if he should not have any bodyly defects to prevent his being Mustered I presume the service ——— injured by the exchange—
          I —— Honor to be —— greatest Respect ——— Obedt Servant

            Timo Taylor

          Honble. A Hamilton Esquire


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Aaron Ogden, 25 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Ogden, Aaron

            Sir,
            NY. March 25th. 1800

          It is my wish that you would look among the officers of the thirteenth regiment for some character qualified to fill the office station of Brigade Inspector — Quarter Master. Captain Meigs has been highly spoken of to me by his Colonel. I mention this mainly to draw call your attention to  this Gentleman, ———— his merits, confiding however that you will have an equal eye to those of other Officers—
           Col. Ogden


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Caleb Swan, 25 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Swan, Caleb

            Sir,
            NY. March 25. 1800

          I have just received a letter from Lieutenant Campbell Smith in which he informs me that you declined settling his account to the last of the month—It is not — that this should be done As it is the has been the practice to settle with Officers on furlough distinctly, you will do so in the present case unless there are some strong and peculiar reasons against it—If there are any such, you will communicate them to me. I am the more anxious that Lt. Smith should be settled with as it will leave him without a pretext for not joining his regiment which he has been ordered to do—
          It has occurred to me that it would be a good general regulation that officers on furlough should receive pay that may have been due to them at the time of leaving their corps, but that they should look to their regimental P Masters for that which accu which may accrue during their absence—Previously Before however I would wish, however, before issuing this as a general order, to have your opinion on the subject—The order can not have a retrospective influence, and sufficient time interval should be allowed between it’s being issued the time of it’s being issued and being carried into effect to for it to be generally known.
          C. Swan Esr PM General


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 25 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

            Sir,
            N.Y. March 25th. 1800

          I have just recd. the enclosed Inventory from Capt. Ingersol. The Contents he states to have been sent forward to you in boxes, (of one of which the enclosed is the key) by the direction of Major Toussard; from which I conclude that the Major’s direction was given in consequence of your order. I have the honor to transmit the Inventory is therefore transmitted to you that you may judge of the proper distribution of the Articles. requesting that one sett of the “manuel de l’Artilleur” may be intended for forwarded to Genl. Pinckney—who has asked for it—
          W—
          The Secy. of War—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 25 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

            Sir,
            N. York March 25th. 1800

          Enclosed are I have the honor to transmit the proceedings of the Court Martial in the case of Lt. Leybourne I have strongly disapproved the sentence of the Court
          W—
          Secy. of War


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Bishop, 25 March 1800
From: Bishop, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Major Genl. Hamilton
            Sir,
            Fort Jay March 25th. 1800.

          There is three Months Pay due the Men recruited by Lieut. Hancock, they are very anxious to get it, and seem to place it to my neglect, a part of them are at present transfer’d to Captain Eddins’s Company—I wrote Lieut. Meminger some time since to know the reason it was not sent on—
          The following is a true copy of his Answer on that subject, I made it my business to enquire respecting the pay due Lieut. Hancocks Men their pay for the Months April, May & June was put into the hands of a Mr. Lewis a Clerk in the War Dept. for the purpose of forwarding on to Lieut. Hancock—And he converted this and other sums with which he was entrusted to his own use; he is now in Goal—And it is the oppinion of the Py. Mr. Gl. that the best mode of obtaining the Money, will be, for you (as the person most interested and whose duty it is, to have your Men fairly dealt by) to write to the Secretary of War on the subject, and request redress—You have my permission to make use of my Name and this information
          I have the honor to be With Respect Your Obed. servt.

            Jno Bishop Capt.
            2nd. Regt. A&E


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John J. U. Rivardi, 25 March 1800
From: Rivardi, John J. U.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Fort Niagara—March 25th. 1800

          I do myself the honor of transmitting a Plan and Section of the lake Side of this Fort, with a project of Some additions intended to Save the Bank from falling in—The piers would be constructed like that which extends round the Redoubt E & filled with Stones. The part of the plan contained between the lines F I C D G expresses the weakest place & the one which Seems to claim particular attention; for in very few years the Stone house would be in great danger of yielding to the increasing progress of the lake—The point K is weak likewise, but we might postpone (without damage resulting from the delay) one or two years the ground being much Stronger on that Spot & the Slope having a much larger basis—
          As to the Stone house—it will be indispensable to Shingle it a new if nothing else is done—the present roof admitting water in almost every part—which damages the Cielings & renders the building unhealthy. I have ordered the Artificers & a few men from the 1st. of February to cut timber & I hope to have enough in a few weeks to make a begining if it meets with your approbation—
          Most respectfully I have the honor to be Sir Your Most Obedient & very humble Servant

            J J U Rivardi

          Major General Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 26 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

            Sir,
            NY March 26th. 1800—

          Captain Thompson, of the fourth regiment, having resigned, — Mr Campbell Smith, standing first on the list of Lieutenants, is of course entitled to receive fill the vacancy. Immediate promotion in cases of this nature, except where there are serious objections to the individual, is enjoined both by duty right justice and policy.
          The individual Officer next in grade is entitled to the vacant post, and delay in promoting him to it is a violation of his right—And indeed it is a violation not merely of his right but of that of every of all the Officers who stand below him—
          The effect produced by delay in such cases is of the most pernicious — kind very injurious. The Officers who are kept out of their right believe that they suffer from the influence of a mean parsimony in the public councils Government too little to be reputable.
          Nothing can have a stronger This has a strong tendency to disgust them with the service.
           S of War—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William C. C. Claiborne, 26 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Claiborne, William C. C.

            Sir,
            N Y. March 26. 1800

          I have received your letter of the twenty fourth instant, and should be very happy to comply with the request which it contains, could I possibly feel myself justified in doing so. But the thing would involve a very wide departure from general rules, and establish a precedent that might produce serious inconvenience to the Service. Should future applications of the kind be rejected, the individuals would have ground to consider themselves injured, and the compliance the granting of them should render it impossible to carry into effect any general arrangement.
          It is a point very material, and a point about which I am sollicitous, that corps should not be intermixed in different districts, and that officers should be with their regiments.
          The third regiment will be posted partly on the Mississippi, and partly on the Ohio, between Cincinnati and the Rapids. It is probable that Captain Sparks will be situated in the latter place.
          I sincerely regret, from the interest which Governor Sevier must take feel in the matter, and the part which you have taken in it, that I can not comply with your wishes.
           Honl. Mr. Claiborne


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William S. Smith, 26 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Smith, William Stephens

            Sir:
            NY. March 26th. 1800

          I have received your letter of the nineteenth instant with its enclosure—
          Were this a time of war I should not be embarrassed by your enquiry, but, in the present state of things, we must rely for a remedy — of the evil of which you complain on the influence of strict discipline upon the troops themselves. Where stores are erected near a high way you can place a sentinel on to prevent the soldiers from entering the stores them, taking care, however, that he encroach not on the ground of the proprieto store keepers.
          The beating of The circumstance you mention respecting a soldier private of the 11th. regiment deserves very serious attention. It is our duty to give protection to the soldiery. You will therefore apply, in my name, to the district Attorney Mr. Horace Stockton and request him to take adopt measures for making the offender person who committed the assault answer both civilly and criminally for his conduct—You can inform Mr. Stockton that the necessary expence will be defrayed by the public—
          The injured soldier should be assured that measures are taking for his redress—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William S. Smith, 26 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Smith, William Stephens

            Sir,
            New York March 26th. 1800

          Inclosed is a letter from Colonel Taylor relative to the discharge of Justus Cadwell of Capt. Meiggs company. If Abner B Chapel, the man offered as a Substitute, and who is now I conjecture at the Brigade, after being examined, by the Surgeon, as should be approved of by him the Brigade Inspector or Commanding Officer of the Brigade regiment, you will notify me of it, and I will accordingly grant Cadwell his discharge.
          with true consideration &c
           Colonel Smith.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jonathan Cass, 26 March 1800
From: Cass, Jonathan
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Wilmington Delaware March 26th. 1800—

          Lieut. Charles Smith of the first Regiment of Infantry, who died at Trenton the 30th. of January last, did, on the 11 of November 1799, Enlist a man by the name of William More, I soon discovered, that he had a sore leg, but was made to believe at the time, that it was from a recent bruise, and consulted Doctor Smith (brother to, President Smith of Princeton) who gave it as his opinion, that the leg might be soon cured, he being a stout likely young man, I was unwilling to lose him—the experiment has been made, and proved hitherto unsuccessful, to make you, Sir, more acquainted with the Soldier’s situation, I will inclose Doctor Smith’s report, from which I think it probable, you will order him discharg’d, and if so, as Lieut. Smith has pay due from the public, shall the Government be refunded the 8 dollars bounty from it?
          He has received no pay since he inlisted, the uncertain situation, in which his leg continued, prevented my having his name taken up in the Pay Roll—
          He has received one hat, a Coat, Vest, 2 pair of Wollen Overalls, 2 shirts, a pair of shoes, and a blanket, some of those articles are rendered totally unfit for further use, and all of them nearly so—
          No arms, or instruments of Music have yet been sent to this Rendezvous—is it your intention Sir, that they, the Recruits shall be marched to the frontiers unarmed? I am mortified that our number is so small but feel a confidence, that the fault cannot be Justly imputed to my self or the officers under me—I am flattered with a hope of being more successful on the approach of the spring season, and the ebbing of the public clamor against the army, and the doings of the government generally, which is in my opinion actually the case in this quarter—
          I am Sir, with grate respect and esteem, your most obedient Servant.

            Jona. Cass Major 3. R. Infty.

          Major General Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Francis Kinloch Huger, 27 March 1800
From: Huger, Francis Kinloch
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Charleston 27th. March 1800

          I received yesterday your orders to proceed with my Company to New York. The Agent of the W: D here Mr Crafts, has engaged our passage in the South Carolina, Capt. Pelor, who proposes to sail on the 5th. April. I have the honor to be Sir with the highest respect Your Mo: obdt. hl st:

            Francis K: Huger
            Capt. 2d Regt. Arts. & Engrs.

          The Honble Major Gl. Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Caleb Swan, 27 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Swan, Caleb

            Sir,
            NY. March 27. 1800

          You will be pleased, whenever a General Order is issued which requires any thing to be done in your Department, to superintend it’s execution. It will be proper as often as there is an appearance of delay to write to the different Paymasters and persons acting as Paymasters to accelerate, in all such cases, the exertions which it is their duty to make. Should delays occur I shall expect you to inform me of them.
           C. Swan Esqr.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 27 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth

            Sir,
            NY. March 27th. 1800

          The enclosed letter from Major Ford was sent, thro’ misapprehension to you — me instead of you yourself.
          You will doubtless As to the return, you will doubtless inform Major Ford that his returns should be sen addressed to the Deputy Adjutant General in your district who will make out an abstract and send it include them in the abstracts which he sends to the Adjutant General.
          The charges against Captain Blackburne are so serious that I do not see how they can be passed over in silence—You will doubtless, make agree with me, I presume, that such enquiries as will enable you to form an ultimate judgment in the case, should be made. As Major Ford may have expressed himself somewhat freely from confidence in me I have to request that care be taken, in the measures which are adopted, that mode of the preliminary inquiry, not to compromit him—
           G. Pinckney—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 27 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

            Sir,
            N.Y. March 27th. 1800

          I have the honor to transmit to you, enclosed, the proceedings of the General Court martial held at Portland whereof Lt Leonard was Presidt.
          W—
          The Secy. of War—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William S. Smith, 27 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Smith, William Stephens

            Sir,
            NY. March 27th. 1800

          I have just received your letter of the twenty third instant.
          Those officers who have been appointed since the adoption of the arrangement of relative rank for your regiment will rank stand on the list take rank according to the dates of their appointments. Where two or more persons have been appointed on the same day, the precedence will be determined by lot.
           Col. Smith—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William S. Smith, 27 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Smith, William Stephens

            Sir,
            NY. March 27th. 1800

          Enclosed is a list of Articles sent me by Mr Dayton—He represents them to have been procured by your orders—Upon examining my letters I find that the articles — marked are not included with in any of the direction general or special which I have given.
          You will inform me whether these have been procured, and also upon what grounds they have been were added to the list of articles directed by me to be furnished
           Col. Smith—


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Caleb Swan, 28 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Swan, Caleb

            Sir,
            NY. March 28th. 1800

          You will forward, without delay, to Lieutt Richmond acting Pay Master to the detachment at Bennington under the command of Major Bewell, bounty money sufficient for recruiting two more full companies—
           C. Swan Esr.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Daniel Jackson, 28 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jackson, Daniel

            Sir,
            New York March 28th. 1800

          I have received your letter of the eighteenth instant, and understand by it that fresh provisions are issued four times in the week days, salt pork twice two other days, and salt beef twice two other days. Understanding you in this way, I approved what you have done—If I have misapprehended you, you will inform me of the precise meaning of your letter
          With great consideration I am Sir Yr. ob. Servt.
           Major Jackson


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Fleming, 28 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Fleming, George

            Sir
            N York March 28 1800

          I have just received a letter from Captain Ingersoll informing me that there are at West Point, belonging to the public “Hospital, Medicine, Instruments, furniture &cc. Quarter Master Stores, Artificers Tools, for Carpenter’s tools and Blacksmiths, Some Articles of Winter Clothing, Stationary, Laboratory Apparatus &c. &c.”—Of all these you will take charge. A return of the Articles of Clothing you will send to Captain Williamson, and — of the other things to Col. Ogden the Deputy Quarter Master General in this district
           Capt. Fleming


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Samuel Hodgdon, 28 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hodgdon, Samuel

            Sir,
            NY. March 28 1800

          You will forward, without delay, to Lieut Richmond acting Paymaster and Quarter Master to the detachment at Benington under the command of Major Bewell, Clothing sufficient for two more full companies, one of the second, and another of the third regiment—

            Saml Hodgdon Er—


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Samuel Hodgdon, 28 March 1800
From: Hodgdon, Samuel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir—
            Philadelphia 28th March 1800

          This morning I am favoured with your letter of the 26th instant—I will immediately make an arrangement, for furnishing the Tents you request, and I will know that they are such as you will approve—
          I am sir, Your Most Obedient servant

            Samuel Hodgdon

          General Alexander Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William C. C. Claiborne, 28 March 1800
From: Claiborne, William C. C.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Philadelphia March 28th. 1800

          I have received your polite Letter of the 26th. Instant, and its Contents have —ly convinced me of the propriety of your determination, relative to the destination of Captain Sparks.
          I shall take the liberty Sir, to forward your Communication to Governor Sevier, who being a Military Character, must immediately see the force of your reasoning, and the great inconvenience, which partial Military indulgencies would produce to the service.
          I have the honor to be sir, With great Respect & Regard Your Mo: Ob: hble servt

            William C. C. Claiborne


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Francis Gurney and others, 29 March 1800
From: Gurney, Francis
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Philadelphia 29 March 1800—

          We take the liberty to address you in behalf of Maurice Gary who has lately been tried by a Court Martial at Fort Mifflin and Sentenced to hard labour for desertion from the Army of General St Clair during the last Indian War—Although we cannot excuse the offence, yet the length of time which has elapsed since its Commission, the good behaviour of the Man for Several years past, and above all the distressed Situation of his Wife and a family of Small Children who have been decently and Comfortably maintained by his Industry, will we hope be Considered by you as circumstances Sufficiently powerful to recommend him to Mercy.
          If Sir that Mercy Can Consistly with the principles which you have established be extended to him we trust his future Conduct will evince a Just sense of it, and ourselves will be much obliged by your attending to his Case
           We are with great respect Your Obed Servts—

            Frans. Gurney
            Abijah Daives
            John Leamy
            Saml. W. Fisher
            John Waln
            Robt Waln
            Thos. FitzSimons
            John Clement Stockes
            David Lewis
            Geo Latimer
            Isaac Wharton
            James Crawford
            Levi Stallingsworth

          General Alexander Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John H. Buell, 29 March 1800
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Buell, John H.

            Sir,
            N York March 29th. 1800

          I have received your letter of the tenth instant, and have written to the Pay Master General and Superintendant of Military Stores to furnish you with money and clothing sufficient for two more full companies.
          The circumstances you mention induce me to consent to the change of your quarters from Bennington to Westminster.
          You did right in giving orders on the Contractor for the transportation of Officers provided you confined yourself within the General rules established on in the — case.
          Respecting the two soldiers you speak of, and a Court Martial, you will receive a communication from the Adjutant General.
          Major Bewell


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jared Brooks, 29 March 1800
From: Brooks, Jared
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Philadelphia 29th. March 1800

          I have the honor to enclose to your Excellency—sundry Copies, and a Certificate, relative to my having been appointed and done the duty of Pay Master to the Troops, at and near Staunton, for the purpose of Obtaining a Certificate which is required by the Secretary of War; agreeably to the 2nd. Article of the Regulations respecting extra allowances, before I can obtain compensation for inevitable expenses incurred on a tour of 888 Mille’s with the necessary detentions at the several recruiting Rendezvous—
          Those Troops were paid up to the 1st Decr. will have four months pay due them the first of April—they wish to know if I am to make them another payment, if not the officers will name some one of their detachment to act as Pay Master—
          I have the Honor to be your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servt.

            J Brooks Cadet
            Artillerists & Engrs

          Major Genl. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Callender Irvine, 30 March 1800
From: Irvine, Callender
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Carlisle 30th March 1800

          I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 27th Febry last, indulging me with leave of absence, for the recovery of my health; for which I beg you to accept my most grateful thanks—
          I have the honor to be Sir your most obedient Humble Servant

            Callender Irvine

            (Copy)

          The honble. Major General Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Campbell Smith, 30 March 1800
From: Smith, Campbell
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Philadelphia March 30th. 1800

          I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your very obliging letter of the 23d inst and beg you to believe that I shall ever highly appreciate this testimonial of your friendly attention—
          When I last wrote you I despaired of any thing like the slightest personal accommodation in this quarter, and determined to suffer in silence untill the proper opportunity should have occurred to gratify my feelings—under this impression I had written to a venerable parent from whose prompt liberality I have before and been compelled on similar occasions to desire the necessary pecuniary recourses for my comfort, and had been gratified so far as to enable me to meet the order of March—and have received in answer a letter couched in such terms as demands for the gratification of his feelings a resignation of my commission—this I am rather unwilling immediately to accede to, for certain reasons which you no doubt will readily conjecture—
          My Bill for compensation for my services as Judge Advocate under General Wayne has passed both houses of Congress, and was sent on Friday to the President—I am in hopes it will be returned tomorrow—& I trust I shall not be deemed guilty of an infringement of my orders, if I wait a day or two here for the receipt of the money, part of which is anticipated in the City—the papers are in such forwardness with the accountant, that unless some impediment is thrown in the way, a few hours after the official receipt of the Law, will only be necessary to accomplish the settlement of the account
          I have written to Major General Pinckney and to Lieut. Col. Butler letters explanatory of my situation—and shall avail myself of the first moment when circumstances will permit to proceed to Harpers Ferry—where I anticipate however unwillingly, the close of my military career, at least for the present war—
          With the hope that I may not have been deemed troublesome to you, and the warmest gratitude for your polite attention I remain With the highest consideration Sir your most obedt Servt

            Campbell Smith

          Honble Major Genl Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Caleb Swan, 31 March 1800
From: Swan, Caleb
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir.
            Philadelphia March 31. 1800.

          I have enclosed an abstract of my payments from the 21. December to the present date Amounting to 198.293. 12/100 dollars. The warrants necessary to those payments, are also enclosed, numbered from 91. to 150 inclusive, which I wish you would be pleased to sign, and return, to be filed with the vouchers for the last quarter.
          I have the honor to be with very great respect Sir Your most obedt Servt

            C: Swan PMG.

          Major Genl Hamilton Commdr. in Chief &c


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John H. Buell, 31 March 1800
From: Buell, John H.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir
            Bennington March 31st. 1800

          I have been honored with yours of the 18th Instant which came by the last Mail.
          The Mail which was to come in last week has not arrived. I have Ordered the Recruits to be marched to this place leaving one Officer at each Rendezvous untill I receive your further Orders—I have taken the Liberty to Order Lieut Richmond to New York with orders to Report himself to the General he will give every information Respecting my Command he is to take with him his avouchers in order to Close his Accounts to this day together with the Pay & Muster Rolls he has many other matters and things in Charge which he is to report to you—It will not be possible for Capt. McClarys recruits to be at this place ’till late in next Month no time shall be lost in Collecting them  & putting them in readiness to receive your further Orders—
          I have the honor to remain Sir with respect your Hubl. Servt

            John H Buell Majr. U.S.  2d Regt.

          Majr. Genl. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William S. Smith, 31 March 1800
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Major General Hamilton
            Sir,
            Union Brigade march 31st. 1800.

          Agreably to your request, I have had Abner B. Chapel of the 13th. mustered, and enclose the necessary Certificate Signed by the surgeon and the officer Commanding the Regiment, it is arranged I believe conformable to the Contents of your Letter of the 26th. supposing you might wish to file the original papers, I return them and have the Honor to be with great respect—Sir, Your most Obedt Humble Servt.

            W. S. Smith Lt Colo. of ye. 12th.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jacob Kingsbury, 1 April 1800
From: Kingsbury, Jacob
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir,
            Norwich, Connecticut, 1st April, 1800—

          I have received your Letter of the 26th of last February, and in consequence of your orders, now report myself to you for further directions, not without hopes of obtaining leave of Absence untill June, or the last of May, at that time it will be good traveling, I should not have presumed to ask any further indulgence, was it not for my family, which I intend moveing on to the Army with me, and as we are now at peace, and our army laying in Quarters, I should esteem it as a particular favor, if I could be indulged with the command of Fort Washington, or Presque Isle, I would prefer the former, I should not have Solicited the command of either of those posts, were they not Garrisoned by the Troops of the Regiment to which I belong, sir it is with the Utmost diffidence, that I presume to ask any further indulgence, which I positively should not have done, had I not have been a number of Years without a pass from the army, and shall expect when I return again to service, to do my duty incessantly, without even an Idea of obtaining leave of Absence for many years to come—
          I have the honor to remain Sir, With the greatest Respect, and due Submission, your most Obdt. Servt.

            Jacob Kingsbury Major
            2nd US Regt Infantry—

          General Hamilton—


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Irvine, 1 April 1800
From: Irvine, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Dear Sir,
            Carlisle April 1st 1800

          I have been so repeatedly solicited my son Captain Irvine, to address you in behalf of young men of his Company, that I can not well resist  any longer; they  joined his Company when he first began to recruit under expectation of being put on the list of Cadets, tho as I understand without any engagement for this, on his part, All in his power was to appoint them Serjeants—they have conducted so well in this station & behaved so unexceptionably and Genteelly that they attract the notice of all who see them—
          Captain Irvine recommended them last year, by letter to the Secretary of War, his answer was that general arrangements were about to be made respecting Cadets, when they should be thought of—They were of a Detachment last summer in Berks and Northampton Counties of this State—one of them was recommended by all the officers on that Command to the Secretary of War; but they are yet Serjeants, altho it is said that sundry young men who entered the service long since have been promoted—by what means I know not, nor is it my business to enquire, nor do I wish to be understood as at all complaining—such things I know may be fairly enough attributed to accident hurry of business &ca. One of them Bartholemew Dandridge Armistead, is a Virginian, of the first families of that State, a near relation of Mrs. Washingtons, he has had a liberal education—is sensible modest in extreme. I understand he had recommendations for a Commission before he Enlisted, but unfortunately presented them at the Office of the Secretary of State by mistake where he was not politely treated; he was chagrined, retired and Enlisted—The others name Buchanan from Maryland, is said to be also of good connexions, is a decent genteel fine looking young Man—I should not have taken the liberty to trouble you with this matter if I was not persuaded that you take pleasure in patronising or bringing forward men of merit—add to this I think they will reflect credit on their patron, otherwise I assure you not partiality for them, or other motive whatsoever would induce me to recommend them to your notice. at all events I beg you to excuse taking up so much of your time, and to be assured that I am with great respect & esteem Dear Sir Your most obedt. Servt.

            Wm. Irvine

          Major Genl. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Caleb Swan, 2 April 1800
From: Swan, Caleb
To: Hamilton, Alexander

            Sir.
            Phila. April 2d 1800.

          I have the honor to enclose to you an extract of a letter from General Pinckney of the 25th ulto. by which it appears that the appointment of Lieutenant Hugh McCall as deputy paymaster, for south Carolina and Georgia cannot be permanent.
          Lt. McCall was appointed by the joint Consent of Generals Pinckney and Wilkinson, upon the presumption that the removal of the 3d. Regiment (to which he belongs) would not interfere with his duties in so. Carolina and  Georgia. to this end Generals Pinckney and Wilkinson promised me before I appointed him that he should be transferred to the 4th Regiment, which it was expected would take the place of the 3d. in Georgia.
          Under these impressions Lt McCall has been appointed, qualified, furnished with 46.348. dollars, and is now actually in the execution of his office, and to take him from this service will altogether derange the measures taken for paying the troops in that quarter, and probably injure the public interest.
          If he can be considered as on command in Georgia it will answer all the purposes. but if he must follow his Regiment, I must confess I am entirely at a loss who to nominate in his place.
          I am very respectfully Sir your most obedient Humble Servt

            C: Swan PM Genl.

          Major General Alexander Hamilton