Title: Commission as Lieutenant Colonel, [25 October 1780]
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, October 25, 1780]

The United States of America In Congress Assembled
To Alexander Hamilton Esq. Greeting. We, Reposing especial trust and confidence in your Patriotism, Valour, Conduct, and Fidelity, DO by these presents constitute and appoint you, to a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army of the United States, to take rank as such from the first day of March A. D. 1777. You are therefore carefully and diligently to discharge the duty of a Lieutenant Colonel by doing and performing all manner of things thereunto belonging. And to Strictly charge and require all Officers and Soldiers, under your command, to be obedient to your orders, as Lieutenant Colonel. And you are to observe and follow such orders and directions, from time to time, as you Shall receive from this, or a future Congress of the United States, or Committee of Congress for that purpose appointed, a Committee of the States, or Commander in chief for the time being of the Army of the United States, or any other your Superior Officer, according to the rules and discipline of War, in pursuance of the trust reposed in you. This commission to continue in force until revoked by this, or a future Congress, the Committee of Congress beforementioned, or a Committee of the States.

Entered in the War Office and examined by the Board Attest Ben Stoddert Secretary of the Board of War
Witness his Excellency Samuel Huntington Esq President of the Congress of the United States of America, at Philadelphia the 25th. day of October A D 1780, and in the fifth Year of our Independence.

Sam. Huntington President


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Timothy Pickering, [25 October 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Pickering, Timothy

[Totowa, New Jersey, October 25, 1780]
Sir

You will have the boats at Dodd’s and those now with the army, properly furnished with oars, transported by horses for the sake of expedition—brought to the Notch, tomorrow evening precisely at five O Clock (i e half an hour before sunset) where they will receive further orders. You will have with each set a confidential person on whom you can absolutely rely for punctuality to a moment. The greatest secrecy is necessary, and it is essential that the boats should not arrive a moment sooner nor later than the time fixed.
You will have fresh teams ready at the same place at the same time under a confidential person also, to relieve those in the Waggons, in order to transport the boats with the more celerity.
I am Sir   Yr. most Obed ser

Alex HamiltonAide De Camp
Hd. Qrs. Octr. 25. 80

If you will be so good as to call at Head Quarters this evening there may be some other points.

The note mentioned by Mr. Garanger was of a personal nature. Your messenger went away this morning before I could write an answer. The boats are to be kept in readiness ’till further order. Good night My Dear Sir

A H


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Marquis de Lafayette, [30 October 1780]
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Light Camp, New Jersey, October 30, 1780. Letter listed in dealer’s catalogue. Letter not found.]


Title: Continental Congress Nomination as Minister to France, 9 December 1780
From: Continental Congress
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, December 9, 1780. On this date John Sullivan nominated Hamilton “for the office of minister to the Court of Versailles.”


Title: Continental Congress Nomination as Minister to Russia, 15 December 1780
From: Continental Congress
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, December 15, 1780. On this date John Mathews nominated Hamilton Minister to Russia.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Charles Stewart, [21 January 1781]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Stewart, Charles

[New Windsor, New York, January 21, 1781]
The Commissary will issue a ration pr. individual to the Commandants and their crews that is per the inclosed return to fifty five persons till further orders a return of the issues to be made to the Qr. Mr. General that the rations may be paid for in a settlement of accounts with the said persons.

By His Excellency’s orderAlex HamiltonAide De Camp
Hd. Qrs. Jany. 21st. 81To The Commissary of Issues


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens, [4 February 1781]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Laurens, John

[New Windsor, New York, February 4, 1781]
I had finished my letter when I received a respite of another quarter of an hour which I shall improve in writing you another ⟨let⟩ter.
The Marquis thinks the Generals ⟨lett⟩er will have more weight if the Ministry ⟨see⟩ it, as it were undesignedly by you, than if you formally communicate it to them; and with a view to this he has mentioned the letter to them and advised them to ask for a sight of it. He observes that in this way we shall avoid the suspicion of ⟨the⟩ letters having been calculated for their ⟨ins⟩pection and of course they will have less ⟨reser⟩ve in giving faith to its contents. ⟨There⟩ is weight in this observation and ⟨it⟩ is worthy to be considered by you. At all events however, The Ministry ought to see the letter.
I have sincerely told you My Dear Laurens that I was happy the commission has been entrusted to you. ⟨I have⟩ implicit confidence in your talent⟨s and⟩ integrity; but in the frankness of fri⟨endship⟩ allow me to suggest to you one apprehension. It is of the honest warmth of your ⟨temper.⟩ A politician My Dear friend must ⟨be at all⟩ times supple—he must often dissemble ⟨– –⟩ and resentments. I suspect the ⟨French⟩ Ministry will try your temper; but ⟨you⟩ must not suffer them to provoke it. When Congress is spoken of, you must justify and extenuate with the dignity and coolness of a politician, not with the susceptibility of a republican—sometimes even you must acknowlege errors and ascribe ⟨them⟩ to inexperience, and if you he⟨ar animad⟩versions perhaps not over delicate ⟨you must⟩ affect to receive them as the conf⟨ident –⟩ freedoms of allies concerned for ⟨– –⟩. When you wish to show the def⟨iciency⟩ of the French Administration, do it indirectly by exposing the advantages of measures not taken rather than by a direct ⟨criticism⟩ of those taken. When you exp⟨ress⟩ your fears of consequences have the tone of lamentation rather than of menace.
In the nature of things, the French Court must consider us as the obliged party, and I do not see the policy of rejecting this idea, though I would take every proper occasion of showing the advantages of the revolution to France without however seeming to insist upon them. One good way of doing this will be by showing the immense advantages which England would have derived from a continuance of the ⟨u⟩nion.
I believe in fine My friend ⟨the⟩ French Court is jealous and susceptible. You will not give food to this disposition.
These cautions I am sure you will receive as proofs of My friendship & confidence. ⟨Betsy⟩ sends her love and best wishes
Adieu
A H


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Hugh Hughes, 9 February 1781
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hughes, Hugh

Head Quarters [New Windsor, New York] February 9, 1781. Requests temporary replacement for his stolen bridle and repairs on his saddle. Also requests a bridle for George Washington’s servant’s horse.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Timothy Pickering, [9 February 1781]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Pickering, Timothy

[New Windsor, New York, February 9, 1781]
Dr Sir.
The bad condition of my horses and the scarcity of forage in Camp induced me to leave them at Saratoga to recruit against the Campaign. I am shortly to make a journey with the General to Rhode Island for which I shall want horses. I therefore request the favour of you to furnish me with a couple of the best Continental horses that can be found. One for myself—the other for my portmanteau. The last need only be strong. I wish the former if possible to be decent. I shall want them in three or four days. I am Dr Sir
Yr most Obed
A Hamilton
Feby. 9


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Colonel Hugh Hughes, 16 February 1781
From: Hughes, Hugh
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Fishkill [New York] February 16, 1781. Has obtained horses requested by Hamilton for the journey to Rhode Island. Asks whether they should be delivered to the west bank of the Hudson River or kept at Fishkill.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Hugh Hughes, 27 February 1781
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hughes, Hugh

[New Windsor, New York] February 27, 1781. “I thank you for the Trouble you have taken about the Horses. Our Journey is postpon’d, but is Still in Contemplation. When we do set out I shall be obliged to depend on the Public for Horses, as mine were so low that I do not intend to bring them from above ’till near the opening of the Campaign.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Colonel Hugh Hughes, 5 May 1781
From: Hughes, Hugh
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Fishkill [New York] May 5, 1781. Has forwarded Hamilton’s request to Colonel Alexander Scammell and has ordered that “a Hand” and “½ a pound of Chalk” be sent to Hamilton.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Colonel Hugh Hughes, 18 July 1781
From: Hughes, Hugh
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Fishkill [New York] July 18, 1781. States that Hamilton’s letters have been forwarded “by careful Hands.” Also states that “there are some very inquisitive Gentry on the Route.” Requests “a line now & then, on the appearance of a Phenominon &c.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Hugh Hughes, 21 July 1781
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hughes, Hugh

[Dobbs Ferry, New York] July 21, 1781. Requests “particular Care in forwarding the Enclosed.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Hugh Hughes, 25 July 1781
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hughes, Hugh

[Dobbs Ferry, New York] July 25, 1781
My Dear Sir
I beg your Care of the enclosed. I can inform you of Nothing which I believe will be new to you. You have heard of our late reconnoitre? You have seen the Accounts from Green of the Reduction of Augusta. He was obliged by the approach of Rawdon to abandon the Seige of 96, when on the Point of Success—but he was resolved Still to Maintain the Contest in that Quarter. Fayette has had a severe brush with Cornwallis. He lost an hundred and odd Men Killed, wounded and Missing, and two Pieces of Cannon—in all probability the Enemy’s loss in Men was not less. Cornwallis had recrossed James River and was supposed to be proceeding to Portsmouth—thence perhaps in whole or in part to N York & South Carolina. All this & more I suppose you know.
Adieu.   your’s
A Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Hugh Hughes, [28 July 1781]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hughes, Hugh

[Dobbs Ferry, New York, July 28th, 1781]
Dear Sir
I beg your particular Care of the Enclosed. The only News we have here is a Report from Philadelphia, that Rawdon after throwing a small succour into 96, had retired to Charles Town, & that Greene had renewed the Seige of that Place. You heard the British Fleet had put to Sea from the Hook, supposed to be going to escort Cornwallis back.
Adieu my Dear Sir   your most obedt.
A Hamilton
July 28th. 1781


Title: Account of Clothing Purchased for the Officers, [August 1781]
From:
To:

[August, 1781]

2 pieces linnen
No 150—40 yds
1/7

2 Do
145—50
1/2¾

1 piece Bandannoes

1/2
0
14
0

12 Yards Mode

3/6
2
2
0

8 Yards Satten

4/2
1
13
4

7 Yards Callico

2/3
0
15
9

8 pieces of Nankeen

7/3
2
18
0

17½ yards of Russia sheeting

¼
1
3
4

1 piece of linnen
No. 4—26 yards
1/6
1
19
0

1 Do
2–22
1/5
1
11
2

1 Do
4—22
1/6
1
13
0

Remnent 12 yards
12
1/9½
1
1
6

Do 15
8
2/
1
10
0

2 pieces of Jean
60½ yards
2/3
6
16
1½

6 pair shoe Brushes

1/4

8
0

16 sticks black ball

/7

9
4

4½ yards super fine white Broad cloath

3
8
0

10 yards Buff Cassamer

7/6
3
15
0

8½ Do Do

7/6
3
3
0

6 Yards drab white

5/3
1
11
6

9½ yards white velvet

3/6
1
13
3

3 pair white silk raw hoes

7/
1
1
0

3 pair white spun

7/6
1
2
6

3 Do Coulard

8/6
1
5
6

3 Do Do

12/
1
16
0

2 Do pr White

11/9
1
3
6

1 Dozen White thread

47/
2
7
0

1 Dozen fine Cotton hoes

60/
3
0
0

3 pair brown Cotton Do

4/9

14
3

3 pair leather gloves

3/9

11
3

3 pair Do

2/3

6
9

12 fine Cambrick handkerchs

3/4½
2

6

5 linnen Ditto

3/

15
0

10 Ditto Do

2/3
1
2
6

2 yards ⅛ super fine scarlet Cloath

20/
2
2
6

6 Dozen white Coat Buttons

1/5

2
6

3 Do Gilt Do

1/6

4
6

1 piece linnen
No. 6—25 yards
1/7
1
19
7

1 Ditto Do
5—24
1/5
1
14
0

1 Do Do
6—25
1/6
1
17
6

13 Yards ¾ white Cordory

4/
2
15
0

7 Bandannoes

4/1
1
8
0

12 Bassalana Hankerchiefs

3/4½
2

6½

7 Bandannoes

4/6
1
11
6

15 yards White shalloon

23/
1
3
0

7½ Yards½ ell dyed Janet

2/9
1

7½

1 piece fine Linnen
N–24 yds
2/
2
8
0

1¼ yard Cassimer

7/9

9
8½

11 Yards Cotton Denim

3/5
1
17
7

19½ yards Cordaroy

2/8
2
11
4

11¾ yards Scarlet Cassamer

8/3
4
16
11

3 yards of Mersilus Quilting

5/6

16
6

10 Yards Mode 8 Ells

4/6
1
16

7½ Do
Do
2/6

18

Capt. Clifts Acct

7 pr shoes

4/7
0
4
7

6 yards of Taffity

2/8

16

10 yards of Amezeen

7/3
3
12
16

1 piece of Chints

2
8
0

2 stiks Mohair

/3

6

2 Silk Hankerchiefs

4/
7
9
7

1½ yards scarlet Cloath

19/6
1
9
3

1 Hatt

10/

10

1 Set of Buckles

12/

12
6

7 yards of Black serge Denim

5/1
1
5
1

10½ yards of Ribband

/8

7

17 yards black lace

/8
0
11
4

3 Silver Hat bands

2/6

7
6

4 Sticks twist

6/4

6
4

35 Skeins of Silk

7/4

7
4

3 pair of Gilt sleeve buttons

/6

1
6

3 pair Cotton Hoes

4/7

13
7

15 Yards white flannel

1/6
1
2
6

2 pair Gilt shoe buckles

12/
4
4
4

3 pound of thread

2/

6

1 Do
No. 19
15/

15

3 pair of brawn thread hoes

2/5

7
3

2 pair of white Do.

4/9

9
6

5 pair brawn Cotten Hoes

4/2

1
10

6 pair of Cotton Do.

2/3

13
6

5 Hats

19/

5½ yards shalloon

2¾


Title: List of Officers and Men Who Have Received One Month’s Pay, [7 September 1781]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Head of Elk, Maryland, September 7, 1781]

Whole Amount

Names
Company
Regiment
Dol
90th

Thads Weed Capt

Colo Swift
50

2nd
Cornelius Russell Lt
Capt Weed
Colo Swift
32

2nd
William Lord Ensn
Selden
Butler
25

4th
Thomas Warson Sergt
Strong
Swift
10

2nd
Joseph Whipple
Morris
Swift
10

2nd

Luther Page
Ten Eyke
Butler
10

4th
James Bradley
Selden
Butler
10

4th
Isaac Olmsted Corpl
Weed
Swift
7
30
2nd
Charles Porter  do
Walker
Webb
7
30
3rd
Harmon Rose Corpl
Reed
Butler
7
30
4th
Isaiah Atkins  Do
Munson
Butler
7
30
4th
Rufus Holdridge  Drum
Reed
Butler
7
30
4th
Oliver Mun  Fife
Humphrey
Butler
7
30
4th
David Bradley
Selden
Butler
6
60
4th
Benjn Brown
Hopkins
Webb
6
60
3rd
Willm. Batison
Wright
Swift
6
60
2nd
Joseph Batison
Converse
Swift
6
60
2nd
Artimus Bloget
Selden
Butler
6
60
4th
David Chester
Riley
Webb
6
60
3rd
Willm Carr
Ten Eyke
Butler
6
60
4th
Jonah Carter
Baldwin
Swift
6
60
2nd
Joseph Cheney
Riley
Webb
6
60
3d
Stephen Batison
Converse
Swift
6
60
2nd
Joseph Cole
Lay
Butler
6
60
4th
Daniel Davis
Hopkins
Webb
6
60
2nd
Joseph Elwood
Monson
Butler
6
60
4th
Daniel Fin
Strong
Swift
6
60
2nd
Samuel Furgo
Williams
Webb
6
60
3d
Thomas Green
Wright
Swift
6
60
2nd
David Headon
Walker
Webb
6
60
3d
Eli Hull
Ten Eyke
Butler
6
60
4th
Jedediah Hibbard
Munson
Butler
6
60
4th
Jabez Lewis
Baldwin
Swift
6
60
4th
Abner Lilly
Starr
Butler
6
60
4th
Seth Montigue
Hopkins
Webb
6
60
3d
Henry McLane
Selden
Butler
6
60
4th
Samuel Price
Billings
Swift
6
60
2d
Azor Patchen
Morris
Swift
6
60
2nd
Jesse Rice
Morris
Swift
6
60
2nd
Newcomb Raymond
Converse
Swift
6
60
2nd

Willm Short
Buckley
Webb
6
60
3d
Benjn Scofield
Chaimberlin
Swift
6
60
2nd
Asa Solomon
Starr
Butler
6
60
4th
Henry Stish
Lay
Butler
6
60
4th
Willm Sedgwick
Weed
Swift
6
60
2nd
Nathan Tubbs
Ryley
Webb
6
60
3d
Amos Tharpp
Butler
Butler
6
60
4th
Moses Woster
Baldwin
Swift
6
60
2nd
John Wheler
Riley
Webb
6
60
3d
James Wilman
Billings
Swift
6
60
2nd
Daniel Welch
Converse
Swift
6
60
2nd
Hesekiah Wealey
Strong
Swift
6
60
2nd
Lemuel Willis
Monson
Butler
6
60
4th
Ephraim Watkin
Chamberlin
Swift
6
60
2nd
Ebenezer Young
Weed
Swift
6
60
2nd
James L. Dean
Selden
Butler
6
60
4th
Daniel Woodard
Reed
Butler
6
60
4th

£484
30
Total


Title: State of the Arms Accoutrements & Ammunition in Lt. Colo. Hamiltons Battalion of Light Infantry, 24 September 1781
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

September 24th 1781

  Musquetts
  Swords
  Bayonets
  Cartridge
    Boxes
  Gun Slings
  Gun Worms
  Screw Drivers
  Brushes and
    Prickers
  Drums
  Fifes
  Flints
  Cartridges

  Good
  230
  2
  232
  238
  114
  10
  18
  10
  2
  2
  577
  8688

  Bad
  7

  5

  3

  1

  10
  200

  Wanting
  1
  9
  1

  121
  23
  220
  228
  1
  2
  127
  632

  Total
  238
  11
  238
  238
  238
  33
  238
  238
  4
  4
  724
  9220

Ale HamiltonLt Col Comt


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Vicomte de Noailles, [November–December 1781]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Noailles, Vicomte de

[November-December, 1781]
Sir,
You have read with astonishment in several American papers, that a man who in various actions of this war has owed his success to his valour, who in the field has been rather the first soldier than the General of his army, has, during the siege of York-Town, entirely lost his reputation of bravery and ability. You inquire of me as of a person too well acquainted with Lord Cornwallis to add a sanction to the injurious pieces written against a defenceless enemy. Your knowledge of our nation induces you to think, that after a victory, in the tranquil moment of reflection, we can judge with calmness, and even protect the person whom the preceeding hour we had attacked with eagerness; though for myself I disclaim the loss of animosity, certain that a constant and eternal hatred is the only method to humble our enemy—like Rome who inflexible in her enmity, even after the destruction of Carthage, could not forgive her former glory. To merit your confidence, I will endeavour to discard every sentiment of passion and prejudice. I must first take a retrospect of his Lordship’s conduct. After the arrival of a French fleet in the Chesapeake, had he marched to attack the detachment commanded by Marquis de la Fayette, the same prudence which conducted the American army during eight months in Virginia, had prevented an engagement. The march of the British army had been useless; time had been better employed to erect field-works. After the junction with the French troops from the West Indies, the number of the two armies, and their excellent disposition, amounted to a certainty of success. Some experienced persons condemned the desertion of the two redoubts of Pigeon Quarter, which made it easy for the combined forces to establish their lines: But that seemingly timid manœuvre was to flatter the enterprising genius of the assailants, and the probability of success was founded on the example of Savannah and St. Lucia. The establishment of the parallels being finished, it were absurd to suppose it possible for the enemy to make frequent sorties from a place without cover’d way, against lines flank’d with palissaded redoubts. The attempt which the British made was a proof, that such a manœuvre exposed them to be followed to their works. A more heavy fire from the enemy when the trenches were opened had undoubtedly retarded the work, and rendered it more difficult, but could not have prevented our succeeding at last. Without speaking of a cave, and those other reports so injurious to Lord Cornwallis, which have been circulated only to flatter those weak minds who take pleasure in lessening the real merit of an enemy, I chuse rather to find the cause of our victory in the superior number of good and regular troops, in the uninterrupted harmony of the two nations, and their equal desire to be celebrated in the annals of history, for an ardent love of great and heroic actions. For the private conduct of Lord Cornwallis, I consult only his army; for, who can better judge of the bravery of a General, than the soldiers under his immediate command? Who ought rather to be believed in a matter of such importance to every military man, than those who, tho’ suffering, render homage to truth, and accuse not their chief of the misfortunes in which they are plunged? We have seen a General in America unjustly accus’d; but where shall we find an instance in history that a General has been praised after a defeat, without deserving it. I have seen that army so haughty in its success; not an emotion of the soldiers escap’d me; and I observed every sign of mortification with pleasure. I insinuated myself into their confidence, but could not hear a word to the prejudice of Lord Cornwallis. The soldiers were the echo of their officers—and every marquee lamented the fate of their General in England, more than their own captivity in America. The execution of Byng, and what is still more painful to a sensible heart, the disgrace of Burgoyne, fill them with apprehensions for their chief. Our impetuous nation, say they, will revenge upon his Lordship the fate of his army. Cruel in its vengeance, England will not believe that every project of conquest in America is vain; that a hundred thousand men could not extend their arms from Quebec to St. Augustine; and that every army which penetrates the country is infallibly lost, whenever a superior fleet will permit the united powers of France and America to assemble their various resources. How proud soever a Frenchman may be to serve in a cause in which the universe is interested, he cannot help feeling that his stay in America is unnesessary to the success of it; that the efforts of France are only to keep a useful population in America, and preserve a good discipline in part of her army. I hope two examples will not persuade England that those are the true reasons which have contributed to his Lordship’s defeat.
The attention of an author is not to tire his reader; the indulgence of friendship allows long letters, and I have made it my duty to answer your request. I am satisfied if you can find yourself sufficiently acquainted with the particulars of our glorious campaign. My warmest wish is, that England may direct her armies on the same principles that she has done since the beginning of this contest, and still with the same discipline. It seems that injustice and cruelty enslave the genius of her ministry. May next year furnish the allied nations another opportunity to convince the world, that no people upon the earth are more worthy competetors in war, or will be more faithful friends during a peace.
I have the honor to be, &c.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Jeremiah Wadsworth, [1 February 1782]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wadsworth, Jeremiah

[Philadelphia, February 1, 1782. The description of this letter reads: “Alexander Hamilton, to Col. Wadsworth, begging the loan of one hundred pounds.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Vicomte de Noailles, [4 April 18 May 24 May 1782]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Noailles, Vicomte de

[Albany, April 4, May 18, May 24, 1782]
A letter which the Marquis wrote me on his way to Boston was like yours detained till a few days ago. As I take it for granted he will be on his return before a letter from me could possibly reach him, I do not write to him by this opportunity; but hope for the pleasure of seeing him in a few weeks. If it should happen otherwise assure him that I shall often write to him. I will not ask you to assure him of my affection, for of that he is convinced.
General Schuyler desires to be particularly remembered to you; and the ladies present their compliments. Mrs. Hamilton has given me a fine boy, whose birth, as you may imagine, was attended with all the omens of future greatness. Adieu My Dr. Viscount. Believe me to be ever affectionately Yrs.
A Hamilton
Albany April 4th. 82
Though the letter of which the preceding is a duplicate contains nothing interesting, I wish it to get to you as a testimony of my desire to maintain a correspondence. Little has happened since worthy of addition. Clinton has relinquished the command to General Robertson, and it is reported here, though not with certainty, that Careleton has lately arrived at New York to take the command from him. It appears by some late steps taken by the British to restrain the predatory incursions of their refugee parties and by some other circumstances, that they intend to embrace a more complaisant system of war. This might once have been dangerous to us but the time is past. I have seen some late resolutions of the British house of commons that show a revolution in opinions there and that the Ministry have lost their Majority. We are indeed told of a total change of Ministers; but we have no authentic account of it. It appears to be the opinion of the leaders of the opposition that exclusive connexions may be formed between England and this Country, but if they succeed to the administration and act upon this ground, they will find themselves as much mistaken as their predecessors. The popular predilection to them as a nation has given place to a more reasonable way of thinking, and all men of sense are convinced that we are bound by policy and gratitude to hold fast to the friendship of France. It would be idle to dissemble that as a trading people, on a general pacification we shall trade with them as far as we shall find it our interest to do it; but beyond this all their hopes are visionary.
I am clearly of opinion at the same time that France on commercial principles ought to have an ascendant in the trade of this Country; but there is one circumstance that will operate in favour of England and against her. The British Merchants have been long in the habit of giving credit to the American Merchants and this will be evidently a strong inducement to a connection between them. In countries which have not been long familiar with commerce the merchants are apt to be diffident and to deal more in prompt payment with foreigners; and the losses some of your merchants have sustained from the depreciation of our currency and the precariousness of the times in their first experiments with us will naturaly increase that diffidence; but too much pains cannot be taken to inculcate confidence and to propagate an opinion among your Merchants of the necessity and advantage of giving large credits to ours. This will make us your customers for whatever you can sell us at as a cheap a rate as other people. Indeed I do not know whether it would not be wise and for the interest of both countries that a trading company with you should be formed under the auspices of government, which should assist their capital by an advance of governmental funds, in order to encourage them to give that credit which individuals may be afraid of risking. I have run into this reflection, because I am sincerely desirous that no adventitious circumstances may diminish the fruits of that magnanimous part which your country has taken in favour of our independence. It will add to it that it is of moment this business should at the outset get into the train we wish, that the current may not take a wrong direction at first, which it might be difficult to change.
Albany May 18th.
24th. We have confirmation of a change of Ministry. I am much mistaken If England has not gained by it. I think she has a more able administration and I dare say it will have the full tide of popularity in its favour. If a continuance of the war should be the object of the present Ministry they will do it with more vigour and to greater advantage than their predecessors. But can this be their object? England in her present situation, has she any other choice than peace? Will men who have uniformly pronounced the war to be ruinous and impossible of success, who have supplanted the former Ministers for persisting in it who have pledged themselves for peace—who have taken the helm when the nation is exhausted and over head and ears in debt; can these men have the temerity to risk the consequences of a further prosecution of the war? I confess I hardly think it; unless fortune should throw in their way some capital successes. Mr. Rivington indeed tells us that this has happened—that Rodney has lately gained a complete victory over DeGrasse and taken five of his ships. I fear there is too much foundation in this story; it will be a disagreeable stroke; but if the ministry are wise they will only make it the occasion of urging peace with a better grace.
It is said propositions are gone from Carelton to Congress. We shall listen to none which do not include independence and our allies.
There are many rumours of an intended evacuation of New York. It would be a natural step in the present ministry and therefore less improbable. However I do not give intire credit to the event.
One more Adieu My Dear Viscount.
Affecty yrs
A H


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to ———, [12 October 1782]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Albany, October 12, 1782]
Dr. Sir
I expect early in next month to go to Philadelphia, and I do not believe Mrs. H will continue house keeping after I am gone. I consider myself as answerable for a years rent of your house, unless we can find some person whom it will be agreeable to you to accept as tenant for the residue of the year. If you hear of any such person I will thank you to inform me of it; but if the house should be let to another it must be with this reserve, that Mrs. Sims must continue in possession till the end of my year, and I will make an allowance in the rent for that purpose.
I am with great regard   Yrs.
A Hamilton
October 12.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Clinton, [25 December 1782]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Clinton, George

[Philadelphia, December 25, 1782]
Sir
Perhaps before this reaches you, you will have heard that the British have impliedly acknowleged our independence—by giving a commission of the 23d. of September to Mr Oswald to treat with The thirteen United States of America.
Many are sanguine in expecting that peace will be the result of the Negotiations, for my part I have hopes, but if it should not be the case I shall not be much disappointed. There are many jarring interests that will not be easily adjusted.
I have the honor to be   With perfect respect   Sir   yr most obed
A Hamilton
PhiladelphiaDecemr. 25. 1782
As Mrs Hamilton may be on the route I take the liberty to inclose a letter for her which I request the favour of you to forward or return as circumstances shall dictate.


Title: Continental Congress Report on a Memorial from the Legislature of Pennsylvania, [December 1782–January 1783]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, December, 1782–January, 1783. “In a late report which had been drawn up by Mr. Hamilton & made to Congress, in answr. to a Memorial from the Legislatre. of Pa.… among other things shewing the impossibility Congress had been under of payg. their Credrs. it was observed that the aid afforded by the Ct. of France had been appropriated by that Court at the time to the immediate use of the army. … The report was finally recommitted.” Report not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [17 March 1783]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia, March 17, 1783. Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, [9 April 1783]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

[Philadelphia, April 9, 1783. In a letter dated May, 1783, Lincoln wrote to Hamilton: “I have been honored with your letter of the 9th ultimo.” Letter not found.]


Title: Continental Congress Motion Regarding Moving Military Lines, [23 April 1783]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, April 23, 1783]
R[esolved] That the Secy. at War in Conjunction with the Comr of the Southern Army take preparatory Arrangements for removing the Lines of Virginia Maryland & Pennsylvania now with the southern army to such Places within their respective States as they shall think proper, as soon as Circumstances will permit.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Chaloner, [1 May 1783]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Chaloner, John

[Philadelphia, May 1, 1783]
Col Hamilton’s compliments to Mr. Chaloner, incloses him a note which he promised Col Wadsworth to leave with Mr Chaloner. The date is blank which Mr Chaloner will be so good as to fill up from the time Col Wadsworth left this city.
PhiladelphiaMay 1st 83


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Allan, [28 May 1783]
From: Allan, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, May 28, 1783]
Sir
The memorandum which I had the Honour of delivering you a day or two ago was in General the State of matters in the Indian Eastern Department, from which I presumed the Hono[r]able Committee Appointed by Congress woud Examine into the Matter, And from the Importance of the Subject woud Speedly determine.
I woud not by any means urge matters out of the proper Rule or Channel nor wou’d I be so Impertinent as to press on Gentlemen, whoes Abilities and Liberal sentiments must be well Known by the Conspicuous Characters they now bare in the united States, but probably a thoro Knowledge of those parts may be wanting by attention to Greater Concerns.
The Business of the Eastern Indians, has been View’d in a Serious Light by those who has had an Oppertunity to Know the perticular Situation and State of that Country. The Intercourse and Conection which Subsists between the different Tribes which Inhabits the Micmac (nova scotia) Country, 200 Leagues up the River St Lawrence, These being Interpersed among British Subjects, who have been verry Attentive during the Warr in Endeavouring to Gain their Interests, and will no doubt (as is the Common Custom) urge during peace every Intreaguing mode to draw their attention from the United States.
We have been so Successfull during this warr in that Quarter, that there has no great cause of Alarm to Government, that by a Continual Residence & Close attention, Under the Smiles of Providence the Enemy have been prevented in their Design respecting the Indians as well as taking possession of the Country.
Commercial Views, as well as holding them for future Advantages—will Cause the Britains to be Attentive on the Indian Affairs, and there is not wanting among Ourselves persons of such sordid principles who will ever Encourage & Countenance such things where their Interests is Concernd.
Gifts and Promises to Indians are not Sufficient to Keep them. It must be a Constant Attendance given to work upon them, according to their Passions and Dispositions for the Time being.
The Indians thro that country have now constant Meetings. They Try to hear every thing that Passes & by their Acquaintance in Settlements will hear things different ways, they want to Know, what Notice is taken of them, and will direct their Councils Accordingly.
Their External conduct during my Residence, demonstrates, their Wisdom & Subtilty, and that altho they may Appear Satisfyd, Sometimes it is nothing but a Cloak to cover some evil design, they are allways particular to Know in what manner things are Communicated to them—and if it shoud Appear not properly Authenticated they will Treat it with Contempt, which on the Other hand woud be Religiously attended to.
I shall not Trouble you Sir, with more of these Observations. A future time may give me More oppertunity for a better Information Shou’d it be the pleasure of the Honoble. Congress to Continue me in the business. I must Earnestly Request, that I may proceed upon my duty with some thing that may Give Satisfaction & Assurance to the Indians, that I may be Enabled to communicate What the Intention & design of Government is towards them Whereby a Solid and Permanent System may be Established—the sooner it is done will make it more Easy and Eligible.

I forgot mentioning in the Memorial, the Promise made to the Indians, to Procure them a Priest, this I woud pray might be attended to, as A verry Assential Matter in Securing their Interest.
I have the Honour to be with very Great respect   Sir   Your most Obdt Hble servt
J Allan.
Phelidelphia May 28th. 1783
NB. I waited upon Genl Lincoln, after I had the pleasure of seeing you yesterday. He mentioned that he had nothing more than the Declaration of Peace to Communicate—but nothing Concerning the present business.

The Honble. Colo Hamilton


Title: Enclosure: A Memorandum for Indian Eastern Department, 28 May 1783
From: Allan, John
To:

The Indians to have an Exclusive Right of the Beaver Hunt, on the Rivers, which they now live on. To wit—all Eastward of machias, with the Lakes that Extend from Passamaquady River to Penobscot Including the last.
Some methode to prevent Unfair dealing with the Indians, and Embezzleing their property.
A Sum of 250 £ M of massts. for Expresses and other Employment, with presents to Indians who, have been most attentive to business.
A Roman Priest
Instructions for futer management of Indians, and what is Intended with them.
At the present Settlement of Peace. a Speech from the Honble. Congress—allso very necessary a Speech from the Ambassador of His Christian Majesty.
There will be wanting at the Conference a Present. Of Ammunition. Tobacco—Wine, with provisions during the time of Conference.

A Small Fortification on the River St Croix or Passamaquody Near the hunting, with a Trifle of Artillery. This will Command respect & Please the Indians.
Some men to be keep’d in the business, not Exceeding Ten with Boats &c
J Allan Agtfor said Department
NB. A Quantity of Ordinance Stores is now at Machias—some of which will Do for the fortification.

Philidelphia May 28th 1783


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Lincoln, May 1783
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War-Office May   1783.
Gentlemen,
I have been honored with your letter of the 9th. ultimo in which you request that I would communicate to you my thoughts on a military Peace establishment for the United-States.
As the detail of the System, which I am about to recommend, will more properly rest with the executive Officers of the Engineer and Inspector General’s departments—I will confine my information to the following general Heads.
1. The situation and number of Posts to be established on the Frontiers of the United States.

2. The number of harbours which it will be necessary to fortify for Continental purposes—and the places which, from their situation and other circumstances, I apprehend will be the most eligible.
3. The number of Magazines to be established for the reception of the continental-stores, and the places at which I would recommend they should be fixed.
4. The number of Academies to be erected for the instruction of military Pupils in the several branches of science required to form an Engineer, Artillerist, or Officer of Infantry and Horse—and the most eligible situations for these establishments.
5. The necessity of a similar organisation for the Militia throughout the United States—and the expediency that Congress should recommend the establishing of State and County Magazines for supplying the Militia with arms, accoutrements, and ammunition, in proportion to the number of the male Inhabitants of each State.
6. The number of regular troops which I suppose will be required for a Peace establishment—and the necessity of an alternation in the articles of war for their government in the time of Peace.
The necessity of establishing a line of Posts upon our frontiers, to serve as a barrier against sudden inroads, and for the protection of our inland trade, as well as to maintain possession of as much of the territory, which has been ceded to us as possible, is the first object which claims our attention.
A more accurate knowledge of the country, than I possess may be requisite to form the best judgment of the number and situation of these Posts. I would however suggest the propriety of erecting one on the east banks of St. Marys river, the western boundary of the United States—One at the conflux of the Mississippi and Ohio—One at the conflux of the Ohio and the Wabash—One near the south end of Lake Mechigan—One at Detroit—One at Niagara—One at Oswego—One in the 45th. degree of north latitude on connecticut river, or somewhere between that river and lake Champlain—One at the source of Kennebeck-river, and One on the river St. Croix, which is the eastern boundary of the United-States.
The number of Posts, which I have mentioned, should, I think, be established either by Congress—or, if their right to this arrangement, should (as I hear it has been doubted by some of them) be questioned, an adoption of the Plan should be recommended by Congress to the several States, within whose bounds the places pointed out are.
As it will, in some degree, be essential to the security of our trade, and to protect the flag of the United States from insult, that a small Marine should be kept up—fortified harbours will be required to cover the Marine and to establish Dock-Yards and Stores.
Boston and New York assemble the most advantages in situation, security and the facility of obtaining Sea-Men—and Beaufort being the only harbour South of the Chesapeak which will admit Ships of 60 guns, it is to be prefered, and it may be easily fortified. I beg leave to observe that these three Places appear to me the most eligible.
In my report to Congress on the 3rd day of March last, I stated the necessity of public Magazines, and recommended that five should be established. One at Springfield in Massachusetts—one at West-Point—one at Carlisle in Pennsylvania—one at New London in Virginia—and one at Camden in south Carolina.
I am still of opinion that this number is requisite—and I would only now propose to place the one intended to be built at New London somewhere high up on James-river in Virginia.
I would recommend that all the Arms and military stores belonging to the United States should be deposited, in equal proportions, at the several Magazines excepting the heavy Ordnance and their stores—which will be disposed of, as may be judged proper, at the several fortified posts where heavy Artillery may be required.
There should, I think, be lodged at each Magazine, as soon as possible, two thousand barrels of powder together with arms, field artillery, and equipments complete for fifteen thousand men, which will be more readily effected if Manufactories and Foundaries are established.
In my report to Congress I have recommended the establishing of Military Academies. I then supposed that an establishment of this Nature, at each of the Magazines, where the Pupils might be taught the Mathematics, and instructed in the several duties of the engineering and artillery departments would be as far as we could go. But, if two such Institutions, on the plan recommended by Baron Steuben, which you inform me has been laid before your Committee, can be established, I think they will answer very beneficial purposes.
I would recommend West Point—and the post at which the Magazine in Virginia may be fixed, as the best situations for the two Academies.
If the Academies are not erected I hope we shall not lose sight of the Manufactories and Foundaries.
I have also reported to Congress my opinion on the importance of having the militia Laws through the United States framed and conducted on similar principles. I am persuaded it will be necessary for Congress to recommend that one system be adopted by all the States for the regulation of their Militia, which may be done with great propriety, the States having confederated to maintain a well organised Militia.
As I have none of the Militia-laws before me I dare not attempt the draught of a law, from recollection, which I should be willing to recommend.
It will be necessary that Congress should also recommend to the several States the establishing of State and County Magazines for the purpose of supplying the Militia in cases of emergency. The State magazines should contain a sufficiency of ammunition, and the necessary equipments, of arms &ca for an eighth part of the male Inhabitants capable of bearing arms—and a train of field Artillery and ammunition, for the like number of men, should be lodged at the State Magazines. The County Magazines should be furnished with lesser supplies, to facilitate the delivery of arms and ammunition to the Militia—when wanted on pressing occasions—and as it would be proper that part of the ammunition should be fixed—it will be essentially requisite that the arms are all of the same calibre.
If all the Posts I have mentioned are to be garrisoned by the United-States, and the number of magazines and academies are established—It will be necessary to retain four regiments of five hundred men each.
Whether we consider the line of Posts as a barrier to the United States—or as places of cover to the trade—I conceive it will be much best that the Guards should be continental. As such, they will be under one head—and a communication will be maintained through the whole which will encrease their strength and safety—nor will there be any inducements to that partiality which local connexions often produce. It will also tend to support the Union, and strengthen our Confederacy.
It will be necessary that Congress should make some alterations in the articles of War. The troops will be so detached that it will be difficult, perhaps impossible, at times to convene a General Court Martial.
A recommendation should go to the several States to enact laws for the trial and punishment of Deserters—and for all capital offences. The Soldier should be delivered over to the civil authority of the State in which he is stationed, or doing duty.
I have the honor to be,   with perfect respect,   Gentlemen, Your most obedient, and most humble Servant
B. Lincoln
The honorableA. HamiltonChairman of the Committee of arrangement on a Peace-establishment


Title: Continental Congress Motion to Extend the Time Allowed for Appeals from Maritime Courts, [6 June 1783]
From: Continental Congress
To:

[Philadelphia, June 6, 1783. Under this date the Register of Reports of Committees sent to Congress reads: “On Mr Hamilton’s Motion for extending the time allowed for appeals from maritime courts.—filed.” Motion not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, [7 June 1783]
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Newburgh, New York, June 7, 1783. Letter not found.]


Title: Continental Congress Draft of a Proclamation by President of Congress, [24 June 1783]
From: Continental Congress,Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, June 24, 1783]
Whereas a body of armed soldiers in the service of the United States quartered in the barracks of this city having mutinously renounced their obedience to their officers did on Saturday the twenty first instant proceed under the command of their sergeants in a hostile and threatening manner to the place in which Congress were assembled and did surround the same with guards, and Whereas Congress in consequence thereof did immediately resolve
insert the resolution
and whereas Congress did at the same time appoint a Committee to confer with the said Supreme Executive council on the practicability of carrying the said resolution into due effect,
And Whereas the said Committee have reported to me that they have not received satisfactory assurance of prompt & vigorous exertions for the purposes above-mentioned—


Title: Receipt to Abel James, 26 July 1783
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: James, Abel

Philadelphia, July 26, 1783. Receipt for papers relating to lands in the Otsego Patent which had formerly belonged to George Croghan and which were mortgaged to William Franklin.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Clinton, [3 August 1783]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Clinton, George

[New York, August 3, 1783. Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Chaloner, [22 August 1783]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Chaloner, John

[Albany, August 22, 1783]
Dr Sir
Mrs. Hamilton has requested her sister who left this a few days since on her way to Philadelphia to purchase a few articles there for her, and if she found it necessary to apply to you for the money. I will be obliged to you to advance it on my account and I will in a short time repay it.
We have accounts here that induce us to believe Carleton has received final orders for the evacuation of New York. I am Dr Sir
Yr. Obed serv
A Hamilton
Albany Aug. 22d. 1783
Mr. Chaloner


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Jay, [28 November 1783]
From: Jay, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Bath, England, November 28, 1783. Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Chaloner, [11 December 1783]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Chaloner, John

[New York, December 11, 1783]
Dr. Sir
As it now draws towards the time for declaring a dividend of the bank, and I am authorized by Mr. Carter to receive his share I shall wish to be informed in what manner the bank will choose to have an acknowlegement of the receipt of the money from me, when time of payment comes—whether an order from me in favour of yourself—or a bill drawn payable to myself, or a receipt from me will be preferred. I make this inquiry because, the Bank may have some mode of their own for transacting the business in similar cases. I will therefore take it as a favour if you will inquire and let me know by a line. It is my wish that you would in the first instance receive the amount and pay it to my order. Let me know also if you please whether there are any persons disposed to sell bank stock and whether it yet begins to sell at an advanced price and the rate.
Mrs. Schuyler when I left Albany gave me a memorandum about some shoes she expected you would send her. I wish you would forward them to me here and I will send them on.
Compliments to Mrs. Chaloner.
I am with esteem   Sir   Yr. most Obed ser
Alex Hamilton
City of New YorkDecember 11th. 1783


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Madison, [18 April 1784]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Madison, James

[New York, April 18, 1784. “I take the liberty to introduce him to you, as to one who will be disposed, so far as your situation will permit and the circumstances of the State may render practicable, to patronise any just or equitable claims which he may have upon the State. What those claims are he will himself explain to you, I have assured him that he will find in you a friend to justice and an able advocate for whatever ought and is possible to be done for him.…” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Bowne, 17 June 1784
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Bowne, James

[New York] June 17, 1784. “Let me know if you please Whether Philip Palmer and Joseph Palmer are both alive or not, and whether Mr. Leonard Lawrence is Executor or Administrator to his father, if the former whether there are any other Executors named in his will and now alive.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Aaron Burr, 17 July 1784
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Burr, Aaron

[New York] July 17, 1784. “… the Defendant in the above cause intends to bring into Court at the ensuing term Twenty five pounds and Eight shillings, being the amount of what he acknowleges to be due to the Plaintiff.…”


Title: Receipt to John Thomas, 14 October 1784
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Thomas, John

New York October 14. 1784
Received of John Thomas by the hands of John Laurence Twenty seven pounds for damages in the above suit and Twenty six pounds for Costs.
Alex Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Clinton, [26 November 1784–17 July 1787]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Clinton, George

[November 26, 1784–July 17, 1787]
Dr Sir
It is the wish of several of the Regents of the University that a Meeting should be appointed on some business of importance; and I am requested to write to you on the subject. It will be only necessary for you to write to Mr. Harpur who is secretary of the University desiring him to publish an advertisement according to mode prescribed in the act.
I am Dr Sir with great respect & regard   your Obed ser
A Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Richard Varick, 13 January 1785
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Varick, Richard

[New York, January 13, 1785. Letter listed in dealer’s catalogue Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Abel James, 21 January 1785
From: James, Abel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, January 21, 1785. Apologizes for not answering Hamilton’s letter of December 4, 1783, and states that he has been ill. Sends part of information requested by Hamilton.


Title: Petition of John Lamb, [1–9 February 1785]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[New York, February 1–9, 1785]
To The Honorable The Representatives of the United States in Congress assembled.
The Memorial and Petition of John Lamb of the State of Connecticut humbly sheweth
That Your Memorialist believing it to be the interest of the United States to form some treaty of amity and Commerce with the States of Barbary; and inferring from the general sense of persons with whom Your Memorialist has conversed, that it is the desire of Congress to set on foot negotiations for that purpose, Your Memorialist is induced to offer his services for conducting those negotiations.
Your Memorialist can offer no other inducements to this trust than his zeal for the service of the United States and his knowlege of the Country, to which he desires to be sent, acquired by an intercourse of five years; and asks no rewards for his services, all he requires being to have the sanction of the United States and the necessary powers to treat.
Your Memorialst to this end prays that the Honorable the Congress if they think him worthy of such Confidence would be pleased to vest him with such character & power correspondent thereto as they may judge necessary & expedient. And Your Petitioner as in duty bound shall pray &c


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Chaloner, [2 February 1785]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Chaloner, John

[New York, February 2, 1785. “I have received your letter with the state of the case enclosed. If you can make no arrangement for securing Mr. Carter without the assistance of the law, I am upon the whole of opinion it will be advisable to rely on the first bill of exchange, instituting another suit against Turnbull Marmie & Co. Though it may be a question whether they are not discharged by the acceptance of the second bill, yet there is law enough to the contrary to justify an experiment to make them answerable. And it will be prudent to hold fast all the security to which you have any pretensions. I suppose there has [been] no receipt or other thing past considering the second bills as absolute payment for so much of the first. No doubt … you have employed able counsel in the matter on the first who know the genius of your courts. You will do well to follow their advice rather than my opinion. I shall be happy at all times to give you the best I can in whatever relates either to our friend or yourself.” Letter not found.]


Title: Conveyance from James Barclay and Others, [17 September 1785]
From: Barclay, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, September 17, 1785]. James Barclay and others convey “All that certain messuage or dwelling house and the store house thereunto adjoining, as also the lott of ground whereon the said dwelling house and store house do stand and which is thereunto belonging situate lying and being in the South Ward of the City of New York Fronting to a certain street called Wall Street.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to ——— Townsend, [27 December 1785]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Townsend

[New York, December 27, 1785.] Instructs Townsend on how to proceed with the execution of a conveyance.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Egbert Benson, [1785–1787]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Benson, Egbert

[1785–1787.] Recounts the facts in the case of Mary Franklin, Executor of Henry Franklin v Teunis Slingerlands.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Samuel H. Parsons, 11 January 1786
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Parsons, Samuel H.

[New York] January 11, 1786. “Some time since I transmitted you a Commission issuing out of the Court of Appeals in cases of Capture the object of which was to examine you on the subject of a certain Agreement stated in your letter and affidavit that no prejudice should arise from not lodging the appeal in time in the cause of the Brig Hope.… Not having yet had the pleasure of hearing from you on the subject I am induced to trouble you with this letter to ascertain whether the Commission has reached you & whether the proposed arrangement is agreeable to you.…”


Title: Receipt to Andrew Craig and William Cooper, 23 January 1786
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Craig, Andrew,Cooper, William

New York, January 23, 1786. Receipt for a deed to a tract of land in George Croghan’s Otsego Patent.


Title: Conveyance. Isaac Moses, Nicholas Low, Daniel Ludlow, and Alexander Hamilton to Alexander Macomb, 15 February 1786
From: Moses, Isaac,Low, Nicholas,Ludlow, Daniel,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Macomb, Alexander

New York, February 15, 1786. “… Isaac Moses of the City of New York Merchant of the first part Nicholas Low and Daniel Ludlow Merchant and Alexander Hamilton Counsellor at law all of the same place assignees of the real and personal estate of the said Isaac Moses … for and in consideration of the sum of Four thousand four hundred and fifty pounds New York currency to them in hand paid by … Alexander Macomb … have granted … unto the said Alexander Macomb … All those three certain messuages or tenements and lots of ground situate, lying and being in the Dockward of the City of New York bounded northwesterly by great dock street southwesterly by a lot of ground of William Constable southeasterly by little Dock street and northeasterly by a lot of ground late of Thomas Doughty and a lot now or late of John Oothout.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Andrew Craig and William Cooper, 2 March 1786
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Craig, Andrew,Cooper, William

New York, March 2, 1786. Advises Cooper and Craig how to secure their interest in their portions of George Croghan’s Otsego Patent.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Aaron Burr, [4 April 1786]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Burr, Aaron

[New York, April 4, 1786]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elihu Marshall and James Bingham, [19 April 1786]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Marshall, Elihu,Bingham, James

[New York, April 19, 1786. Sends a notice for trial in the New York Supreme Court in the case of Robert McWilliams v Elihu Marshall and James Bingham. Document not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Murray, Sansom, and Company, [April 1786]
From: Murray, Sansom, and Company
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, April, 1786]
Murray, Sansom & Co. present their Compliments to Mr. Hamilton and inform him that there is a Vessel that will sail on Sunday next for London, they would be obliged to him if he would have the Commission made out to go by that conveyance. At foot are the names they wish to have nominated as Commissioners.
[Mark Lane London]

No 1 [Henry] Adams—Attorney at Law

  3 Robert Barclay

  4 Joseph Woods

  5 Effingham Lawrence
[of the City of London Merchants]
  2 Thomas Powell

  6 John Freeman


Title: Receipt to Robert Cambridge Livingston, [8 June 1786]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Livingston, Robert Cambridge

[New York, June 8, 1786. On June 17, 1796, Walter Livingston wrote to Hamilton: “In examining my fathers papers yesterday I found a receipt of yours in the following words Viz. Received New York June 8. 1786 of Robert C. Livingston Esquire Twenty five Dollars as a retainer for the Manor of Livingston. Alex Hamilton.” Receipt not found.]


Title: Stephen Van Rensselaer to the Tenants of Rensselaerwyck, [July–August 1786]
From: Van Rensselaer, Stephen
To: Tenants of Rensselaerwyck

[July–August, 1786]
Sir
The situation in which you occupy the lands in your possession in the manor of Rensselaærwyck must of course make you anxious to be put upon a more certain and explicit footing. On my part it is my wish not merely to do justice but to act liberally towards those with whom I have any concerns of property. In this disposition I have concluded to give you a lease in fee for the farm in your possession on such terms and conditions as will be reasonable in respect to you and consistent with a due regard to myself and my family. You will therefore call upon me at my house on  in order that what is necessary may be done.
I am Sir   Your hum ser
A Hamilton


Title: Moses Myers to Nicholas Low, Daniel Ludlow, and Alexander Hamilton, 23 November 1786
From: Myers, Moses
To: Low, Nicholas,Ludlow, Daniel,Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, November 23, 1786. Describes his efforts in Baltimore and Philadelphia to collect money to cover his firm’s debts.


Title: Certificate of Clerkship for Dirck Ten Broeck, 26 January 1787
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Broeck, Dirck Ten

New York January 26th 1787
I hereby certify that Mr. Dirck Ten Broeck entered a Clerkship with me on the Tenth day of January in the year One thousand seven hundred and Eighty four and served as a Clerk in my office until the fifteenth day of October last past and that he is of good moral character.
Alexander Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to ———, [2 June 1787]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, June 2, 1787. The dealer’s catalogue description of this letter reads: “… autograph postscript in which … [Hamilton] suggests that if his correspondent breaks his journey at Elizabethtown he should go to the house either of Mr. Bondinot or Governor Livingstone.” Letter not found.]


Title: Receipt to Philip Van Cortlandt, [5 July 1787]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Van Cortlandt, Philip

[New York, July 5, 1787. “Received of Phil. Van Cortlandt, Treasurer to the Society of the Cincinnati for the State of New York, Five thousand Dollars in Certificates Issued by John Pierce, commonly called New York finals, being part of the Funds belonging to Said Society, and for which we are to be accountable.” Receipt not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Peter Van Schaack, [October 1787]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Van Schaack, Peter

[New York, October, 1787. Letter listed in dealer’s catalogue. Letter not found.]


Title: Subscription to the Ohio Company for Education and Worship in the Territory Northwest of the River Ohio, March 1788
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Ohio Company for Education and Worship in the Territory Northwest of the River Ohio

[New York] March, 1788. Subscribes ten pounds to the Ohio Company for “the Education of Youth, and the Promotion of Public Worship, among the first Settlers.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Nicholas Low, [6 May 1788]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Low, Nicholas

[New York, May 6, 1788]
I send you the questions answered.
Yrs.
A Hamilton


Title: Certificate by Ezra L’Hommedieu, Egbert Benson, and Alexander Hamilton of a Statement by Abraham Yates, Junior, Respecting His Vote on the Constitution of the United States, [8 August 1788]
From: L’Hommedieu, Ezra,Benson, Egbert,Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[New York, August 8, 1788]
We do certify that Mr Yates has delivered to us a Paper subscribed by him (of which the preceeding is a Copy) as declaritive of his Principles on which he will vote in Congress in the affirmative on the final Question on the Ordinance for putting the new Constitution for the United States into Operation.

Ezra L Hommedieu
Egbt. Benson
Alexander Hamilton


Title: John H. Livingston, Thomas Jones, Alexander Hamilton, and Brockholst Livingston to Richard Morris, 8 September 1788
From: Livingston, John H.,Jones, Thomas,Hamilton, Alexander,Livingston, Brockholst
To: Morris, Richard

New York, September 8, 1788. Petition by the administrators of Philip Livingston’s estate to Morris, Chief Justice of the State of New York, to examine and to settle a claim made by Livingston’s estate against the estate of Philip Skene, a Tory whose lands had been confiscated by New York State.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Theodore Sedgwick, [12 November 1788]
From: Sedgwick, Theodore
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Boston, November 12, 1788. Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Philip Schuyler, 21 November 1788
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Albany, November 21, 1788. Encloses the “papers” which he had “promised to prepare” concerning his financial transactions with and for John Bradstreet.


Title: Conveyance. Isaac Roosevelt and Robert C. Livingston to Thomas Jones, John H. Livingston, Alexander Hamilton, and Brockholst Livingston, 4 December 1788
From: Roosevelt, Isaac,Livingston, Robert C.
To: Jones, Thomas,Livingston, John H.,Hamilton, Alexander,Livingston, Brockholst

New York, December 4, 1788. “… By an act of the Legislature of the State of New York Entitled ‘An act for vesting the Estate of Philip Livingston late of the City of New York Esquire deceased in Trustees for the payment of his Debts and other purposes therein mentioned’” the heirs of Philip Livingston convey his entire estate to the trustees “for one whole year bearing date the day before the date of these presents and by force of the Statute made for transferring of uses into possessions.…”


Title: Receipt to Baron von Steuben, [12 December 1788]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Steuben, Baron von

[New York, December 12, 1788]
I certify that William Constable hath delivered me for the Baron De Steuben by way of loan One Hundred pounds December 12th 1788.
Alex Hamilton


Title: Certificate of Clerkship for Joseph Strong, [20 January 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Strong, Joseph

[New York, January 20, 1789]
I certify that Joseph Strong has served a clerkship of three years in my office in the business of an Attorney and that he is of good moral character.
Alexander Hamilton
New York January 20th 1789


Title: Certificate of Good Character for Peter Ogilvie, [13 February 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Ogilvie, Peter

[New York, February 13, 1789. The dealer’s catalogue description of this document reads: “certifying the character of Peter Ogilvie.” Document not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Isaac Ledyard, [18 February 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Ledyard, Isaac

[Jamaica, New York, February 18, 1789]
Dr. Sir:
I understand you are to have a meeting at this place to morrow on the subject of the ensuing elections and accordingly inclose you to be laid before the meeting an address to the Inhabitants of your Township in regard to the appointment of a Governor. It is much to be wished the meeting may agree with their fellow citizens in New York and come to a resolution on the subject—For in Politics as in war the first blow is half the battle. The sooner we declare the better.
I am on my way to Huntington as a Messen⟨ger⟩ from the committee of New York to the Supervisors of the two Count⟨ies⟩ who are to assemble there.
Yrs. with great regard
A Hamilton
Jamaica Feby 18 89


Title: Conveyance to George Anthon, 25 April 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Anthon, George

New York, April 25, 1789. Conveys to Anthon in return for eight hundred pounds “All that certain messuage or dwelling house and lot of Ground situate lying and being in the dock Ward of the City of New York on the Easterly side of a Certain Street there called and known by the name of Broad Street.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, [4 June 1789]
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, June 4, 1789. Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Samuel Jones, [5 August 1789]
From: Jones, Samuel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, August 5, 1789]
The Duties to be collected are imposed only upon Goods imported into the United States after the first of August. Consequently no Goods imported on or before that Day are charged with those Duties. And I am of Opinion that all such Goods may be carried to and landed at any other Port of the United States Duty free. The Act regulating the Collection of the Duties requires the Master or Person having the Charge or Command of any Ship or Vessel (Ships and Vessels of War excepted) coming into any Port of the United States to make Report, and deliver Manifests of the Loading to the Collector and take an Oath therein prescribed And provides that no Goods shall be unladen without a Permit. These Regulations are necessary to prevent Frauds; And in my Opinion apply as well to Vessels coming from one Port of the United States to another as to Vessels coming from a foreign Port and must be complied with by the master of all Vessels coming into this Port. I think all Goods imported into any of the United States on or before or since the first of august may be carried to any other port in the United States duty free. It may be doubtful what is an Importation, particularly whether a Vessel’s going to a Port is an Importation of her Cargoe without entering or landing it But I should suppose that a Clearance from any Port of the United States under the present Regulations would be sufficient Evidence that the Goods cleared out had been imported into such Port.
Samuel Jones
New York 5 August 1789


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Sharp Delany, 13 September 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Delany, Sharp

Treasury OfficeNew York September 13th. 1789.
Sir
Mr. Duer my assistant goes to Philadelphia to transact some business with the bank there in which your co-operation will probably be wanted. He will give you the necessary explanations; and I doubt not will have your acquiescence in whatever may be requisite to complete his arrangments. The other principal Officers of the Department not being on the spot some informality may be unavoidable. But the necessity will justify it; and as soon as the Comptroller and Treasurer arrive, things will be put in their proper train.
I am, Sir   Your obedient servant
Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury
Sharpe Delaney Esq.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Samuel Jones, [September 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jones, Samuel

[New York, September, 1789]

I
Are the duties recoverable on goods imported between the first of August and the time the custom house was organised in a state recoverable?

II
May vessels arriving in any port leave that port without paying or securing the duties prior to the expiration of 48 hours and go where they please or not?

III
May they only go prior to the same period to another state?

IV
May they after that period go to another state? If in any case must it appear that they were originally bound to that other state or not.

V
Can a vessel go from one district to another in the same state before or after the 48 hours without paying or securing the duties in the first district?


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jedediah Huntington, 7 October 1789
From: Huntington, Jedediah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Custom House N London [Connecticut]7 Octor. 1789
Sir
I have this day the Honour of receiving your Letter of the 1st. inst. Upon my entering into Office I found the Light house at this Port furnished with Oil for three or four days only and no Provision made for further Supply. I immediately purchased a little for temporary use and have since laid in a Stock for the Winter. The Light House is built of Stone & the walls are good but the Roof was very leaky and that & the inner work in a ruinous Condition. I therefore thought it prudent to have a thorough Repair of the Roof which will be completed as soon as I can procure some more Sheet Lead. The Lamps requires abt. Eight hundred Gallons of Oil in a year which costs abt. three hundred Dollars & 50 dols the hire of a Man to tend the Lamps & contingent Expences arise to abt. 100 dollars yearly. The Superintendance of the whole was under the State Naval Officer. I am willing to take the Charge of it for the present. Sir
I remain most respectfully   your obedt. Servant
J H
The Genl. Assembly of this state last May ordered some Buoys to be fixed in the Harbour but nothing has been done in Consequence of their Act although the Merchants are very anxious that it should be complied with.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jeremiah Wadsworth, [9–15 October 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wadsworth, Jeremiah

[New York, October 9–15, 1789]
Col Hamilton requests Col Wadsworth as often as convenient to make inquiry and take minutes of the circumstances relating to the navigation of different nations—the construction and quality of their ships with respect to bulk duration and expedition—the expence of materials construction & equipment—the number of men with which they are navigated—the wages to the seamen, subsistence &c., so as to form a general idea of the comparitive advantages for navigation between this and other countries.
AH


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jedediah Huntington, [11 October 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Huntington, Jedediah

[New York, October 11, 1789. Letter listed in dealer’s catalogue. Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Sharp Delany, 17 October 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Delany, Sharp

Treasury DepartmentOctober 17th 1789
Sir
As some of the Circular Letters to the Collectors of the Different Ports containing an Instruction to receive Notes of the Bank of New York, as well as of that of North America—may have been sent to you among others, either through hurry, or from its having been blended with other matters which were equally applicable to you—You will be pleased to understand that so much of any such instruction as relates to the Notes of New York is inapplicable to you, being inconsistent with the arrangements taken with the Bank of North America.
I am   Sir   Your Obedient Servant
A HamiltonSecy of the Treasury
Sharp Delany EsquireCollector of the CustomsFor Philadelphia


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jedediah Huntington, 29 October 1789
From: Huntington, Jedediah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New London [Connecticut] October 29, 1789. “Having just returned from the Genl Assembly of this state where a public Engagement called me & the post going out I have only to acknowledge the Honour of your several Communications.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, [October 1789]
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, October, 1789.] Sends “Estimate of Debts contracted by the State of Connecticut during the late War and remaining unpaid September 1, 1789.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Charles Lee, 21 November 1789
From: Lee, Charles
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Alexandria [Virginia] 21st. November 1789.
Sir
Upon the River Powtomack there are five Collectorships, two in Maryland and three in Virginia. I will forbear to give my opinion till more mature consideration, what alterations ought to be made, but, at present I can venture to say that they are not all necessary, either for mercantile convenience, or for the better collection of the revenue. The distance from Georgetown to Alexandria is seven miles and from Alexandria to Dumfries twenty five miles. The trade of the Powtomack being dispersed and not brought to a point does not appear to a stranger to be so considerable as it really is, and especially the exports are immensely great. From the highest tide water which is about twelve miles from this Town to the mouth of the river 160 miles from thence to the Capes is  miles from the highest tide water to Fort Cumberland (which is expected to be made navigable for boats and the work is already considerably advanced and in a probable way of success) is  miles. The extensive country through which this river passes is remarkably fertile and well inhabited with industrious and healthy people. The trade of the Powtomack is considerable now—at this moment there are 40 sea vessels at this Town and what is very pleasing it is daily increasing. I observe by the Judiciary establishments that the State of Virginia is made a district whereby this river is a boundary, and its inhabitants are remote from the places of holding the Courts and from the Officers of such Courts. This will be found very inconvenient to the Revenue Officers in cases of seizure as well as to the Merchants. To send 100 miles or perhaps 150 miles in all cases for the process of the Court and to the officers of the court will be very expensive and tedious for though the district Judge may hold a Court for some purposes whenever he shall please yet the inconveniences in the first instance will not be removed. While Virginia remains a district some parts of it will be subject to great expenses and inconveniences and as I conceive it to be too large for a speedy and energetic execution of the continental laws, it ought to be otherwise modified from what it is now. As to the Powtomack Country an agreeable form at once offers itself for a district and the other part of Virginia will be as large as a district should be. Let the western shore of Maryland and the northern neck of Virginia make a district: the law of the revenue might then be executed with certainty dispatch and convenience and unless this should be done I fear many offences will probably pass unprosecuted and unpunished on account of the trouble and expense which will arise to prosecutors and witnesses. Some time ago I had occasion to seize a cask of wine of mean quality it happened to be and not of the value of fifty dollars. The owner was content that the same should be forfeited, and therefore by his consent it may perhaps be sold as condemned goods. To have prosecuted for this under the present system, would have cost more than the wine would sell for. This also may serve to show that though a district court be appointed for the Country on the Potowmack which is almost the unanimous wish of its inhabitants there should be some tribunal more convenient than a district court to try seizures under the value of a certain sum for instance 200 dollars. The district I am suggesting is larger than the State of Maryland, and the eastern shore of Maryland might be united (as indeed it is by nature) to Delaware State—such a modification in this as well as other instances would tend to confirm and consolidate the powers of the present government of the United States. Under the state laws the bonded duties were recoverable in a summary way in our courts, viz: on ten days notice and motion. By the act of congress it seems they are to be sued for in the ordinary and tardy forms of law which is a mode of recovery that will be unseasonable some time hence I apprehend. I have been at a loss in what manner the Bonds were to be made payable and I now enclose a copy of the form used in my Office which appeared to me to be the most proper. I have not allowed any discount on the bonded duties and shall act according to your letter on this subject. Under the State regulations there were two sloops employed concerning the revenue which were armed with a few small cannon and swivels and manned with a few Marines, they drew a small depth of water being intended to penetrate as high as possible up all our tide waters and were under the direction of the executive who occasionally sent them whenever it might be required and generally employed them in the Bay and at the mouths of the great rivers. I think the expense of these vessels, was about six thousand dollars annually and I am of opinion that such an establishment would be of use in preventing frauds that I fear will otherwise be attempted some time hence upon the revenue when the Bonds shall be coming due. The masters of these vessels were in duty bound to examine such vessels as they met with and to know whether the laws had been complied with by inspecting the papers on board each vessel: three vessels would be sufficient for Maryland and Virginia, whether the vessels belonging to Virginia have been sold or not I am not sure but I believe they have been sold. At this port there was in use under that state laws a small row boat for the purpose of boarding vessels which I think is necessary in order that upon an emergency the public officers may not be dependent on the courtesy of others, this boat cost one hundred dollars and one person was hired to take care of her and was paid by the public Officer. As the public revenue hath not yet needed a boat the business having been conducted without much difficulty or embarrassment I have not applied for it, and shall wait your orders as to purchasing any boat of this kind. The 16th section of the act to regulate the collection of the duties &c which obliges all vessels to stop at the mouth of our river viz: at St Mary’s or Yeocomico excited a general uneasiness and complaint among the merchants and others on the Patowmack. The regulations was conceived to have a most injurious effect in diverting foreign commerce to Baltimore or Norfolk, where it might freely go without any similar interruption. The regulation was thought useless and unnecessary with respect to protecting the public revenue from fraud or evasion of the laws. It was thought oppressive and detrimental to the merchants, as it would create delay and expense to their vessels in their voyages as it would expose their ships in time of bad weather to danger, as in case of a mistake in the master it would be very troublesome, embarrassing and tedious to rectify the same in consequence of the great distance from their residence to the mouth of the river; for no entry can be made but exactly according to the certified manifest. It was moreover thought partial as a similar regulation was not made as to other parts of America to which with equal reason it might have been applied for example the river Delaware, and to many it appeared unaccountable as the Virginia representatives well knew that a regulation somewhat like it had been made by one assembly and repealed by the next after a trial and conviction of its impropriety impolicy and injustice. These sentiments produced a memorial from the people of the Patomack to the Congress who suspended this obnoxious regulation till May next but they still hope it will be repealed at the next session as in their opinion it will produce the most ruinous consequences to their commerce. For my own part I have no difficulty in declaring that this regulation appears to me to be useless as to the public revenue oppressive as it respects the merchants and in itself unjust and offensive for its partiality. The allowances of drawbacks under any terms is objectionable as it will tend to introduce confusion in the Custom House books than which nothing ought to be more plain and correct. I will only observe at present that the term of twelve months is unreasonably long for the exportation of dutied goods. Under the State laws only three months was allowed. It is thought by some uncertain what fees are due in some cases to the surveyor and in this respect a collector is placed in a most disagreable situation. On the one hand he is liable to public censure or perhaps to individual loss or punishment if he demands and receives for the surveyor any fees not lawfully due and on the other hand he is liable to a suit from the Surveyor if he omits to receive all that is due. I own if the surveyors fees were ever so explicitly ascertained, I should feel it the most irksome part of my duty to be his cashier and clerk and therefore wish that the law could be so altered as to make the Surveyor his own receiver subject in cases of difference with the masters of vessels to the direction of the Collector. I have no difficulty with respect to the fees due to a collector, they being plainly expressed: But the Surveyor of my district conceives and others think with him, that every Licensed Vessel coming from one district into another should pay a fee of two thirds of a dollar to the Surveyor and also all fees under the coasting law: my opinion is that a Licensed Vessel ought not to pay any fees excepting directed by the coasting law. The fee of two thirds of a dollar claimed by the Surveyor is under the collection law which I think does not apply to licensed Vessels. I am uneasy that the Surveyor here may possibly be losing any thing to which the law entitles him and there being no counsel for the United States to whom I could apply to with propriety on this subject I have taken the liberty to make this representation hoping that your instruction will settle the doubt. I have been induced to do this also because in a public point of view, it is important that it be universally understood what are the fees of the public Offices that there may be a uniformity. I must beg pardon for this long letter which I fear will be more tiresome than useful and am Sir most respectfully your obedt. servant,
Charles Lee.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Smith, 21 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Smith, Thomas

Treasury Department Novr. 21st. 1789
Sir
In Consequence of your Application, I have this day issued a warrant in your Favor on the Treasurer of the United States for 22.250 Dollars in Indents of Interest, which he is directed to forward without Delay.
I am, Sir, Your Obedt. & humble Servt.
A HamiltonSecy of the Treasury
For Thomas Smith Esqr.Commr. of the Loan-Office for the State of Pensilvania.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Peyton Short, [1 December 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Short, Peyton

[Treasury Department, December 1, 1789. In his “Memd. Book begun the 6th March 1792,” Short stated: “Wrote a Letter in Ansr. to one recd. from the Secy of the Treasy. of the U. S. acquainting him with my resignation & desiring him to acquaint the President therewith, provided he has not recd. my letter to him, to the same effect. The above Letter from the Secy. of the Treasy. dated ‘Treasury Departmt. Decr. 1st. 1789.’” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Charles Lee, 24 December 1789
From: Lee, Charles
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Alexandria [Virginia] December 24, 1789. “… Having sent a copy of your queries to some of the principal merchants in this state, I have the answer of one of them Mr. Alexander Donald of Richmond, this Gentleman formerly and since the American Independence has been extensively engaged in the Commerce of this State, and I take the liberty to enclose his letter as one containing a description of our Trade.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Charles Lee, 31 December 1789
From: Lee, Charles
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Alexandria [Virginia] 31st. December 1789.
Sir!
The people here concerned in trade have been long accustomed to a due execution of Impost laws and have been in the habit of punctuality in payment of their duties so that I hope there will seldom be occasion to apply to legal remedies. Your instruction as expressed in your letter to me of the 18th. Instant shall be duly obeyed. A Vessel which was Registered in Rhode Island in the year 1787 and appears to be the property of two Citizens of that State and one of Virginia claims the benefit of the Act passed the 16th. September 1789, so as to pay only American Tonnage and to have a deduction of ten per cent on the Duties on the Goods, but as the vessel is not the property of Citizens of Rhode Island only, I am at a loss what ought to be done. It has been treated as an American Vessel as to the Tonnage, which I apprehend is an error. There have several instances occurred at this Office which have exposed me to some uneasy sensations as my conduct has appeared rigid, and the Merchants have not been well pleased. I have demanded from an American Vessel lately Registered at New York, and transporting American produce from that District to this without a License, the same Tonnage as a foreign Vessel in such a case is liable to pay, that is to say 50 Cents per Ton. under the 23rd Section of the Coasting Law. The New Yorkers particularly think it hard on them, because they come from the Metropolis where the Laws should be best understood, and they were not told at the Custom House there, that a License was necessary, or useful on such a Voyage.
I am, most respectfully Sir!   Your most Obedt. Humble Servant.
Charles Lee, Collectorat Alexandria


Title: Tax Assessment, 1789
From:
To:

New York, 1789. Hamilton’s house at 58 Wall Street was assessed at £1,200 and his personal property at £750.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Pierpont Edwards, [4 January 1790]
From: Edwards, Pierpont
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New Haven, Connecticut, January 4, 1790. On January 30, 1790, Hamilton wrote to Edwards and referred to “your letter of the 4th. instant.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Charles Lee, 8 January 1790
From: Lee, Charles
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Alexandria [Virginia] 8th. January 1790.
Sir!
I have received your Circular letter of the 23rd December Ultimo. and have the satisfaction to find your opinion on the several points therein stated corresponds with what has already been done in my Office as occasion has required except with regard to Vessels going in Ballast for an outward cargo or to finish her load of an outward Cargo, from one District into another and in such cases I suppose no Tonnage was payable at the last port. This opinion was founded on the Tonnage Act, whereby it was enacted that every foreign Vessel transporting American produce or manufactures coastwise, shall on each entry pay fifty cents, which in my mind implied that such a vessel should not pay fifty cents unless thus employed. I suppose if she were in Ballast or going from one District to another to complete her outward cargo that nothing was demandable at the last port; for if in every case such a vessel was liable to pay 50 cents it was unnecessary for the Legislature to have made provision for a particular case. Herewith I send the weekly and monthly returns in course and by next post will transmit the quarterly returns, which is as soon as I have found it practicable to put the business into the Forms prescribed.
I have the honor to be   Sir! Your most obedt. Servant
Charles Lee, Collectorat Alexandria.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Ellery, 10 January 1790
From: Ellery, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Newport R Island Jany. 10 1790
Sir
My last letter to the late Commrs of the Treasury was dated June 9th 1789. to which I received no answer, nor have I received any information from them since the 25th. of May last, and that was in a letter from their Secry.
Not receiving any letter from them after the meeting of Congress under the New-Government; not from you since you was placed at the head of the Treasury, and Congress not having passed any act respecting the Loan-Officers I thought it was my duty to proceed in issuing Indents up to the end of 1787, and I continued to issue them accordingly until the close of the last year.
In December last I was accidentally informed that the Loan-Officer for the State of Massachusetts had received directions from you to cease issuing indents at the end of the last year, and conceiving that there was the same reason for my discontinuing to issue, as for his I stopped at the time before mentioned.
I wrote to him on the subject, and found that my information was good.
The late Board of Treasury in their circular letter of the 14 March 1788 informed me that it would not be necessary to state or transmit my accounts to the Treasury more than once in six months instead of once every quarter.
My accounts for the six months which terminated the last day of last Septemr. are ready for transmissn, and wait only for your direction; and I shall prepare those for the last quarter immediately.
I should be greatly obliged to you if you would issue a warrant for the payment of at least a part of what is due to me. The ballance due to me the first of Jany. current will be about 1500 dolls.
I have suffered exceedingly from the want of punctuality in the payment of my salary &c; but I blame not the late Comms of the Treasury. They knowing my situation and circumstances exerted themselves in my behalf. There was little or no money in the Treasury, and I could receive nothing in the mode prescribed by them for the payment of the Loan-Officers. They were to be paid out of the monies received by them from the States where they officiated. This State has not paid a farthing since I have held the Loan-Office, and of course I have received nothing in this channel. Hence I have suffered, hence the deficiency peculiar to me. Hoping by your attention to be speedily relieved from it, and with sentiments of great respect
I have the honour to be   Sir,   Your most obedt. Servant
William Ellery
The Secry of the Treasury


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the President, Directors, and Company of the Pennsylvania Society for the Encouragement of Manufactures and the Useful Arts, 25 January 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: President, Directors, and Company of the Pennsylvania Society for the Encouragement of Manufactures and the Useful Arts

Treasury Department, January 25, 1790. Requests information concerning manufacturing in Pennsylvania.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Charles Lee, 29 January 1790
From: Lee, Charles
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Alexandria [Virginia] 29th January 1790
Sir!

The amount of my fees under the collection law from the 1st. of August 1789 to the 1st. of Jany 1790

$294.40

Amount of my fees, under the coasting law within the same period
}
46.40
Amount of my Commissions, on the sums paid, within the same period
}
 23.42

364.22
Having stated above the gross amount of the emoluments of my office suffer me to add an account of the charges which have been incurred on account of the office, within the same period of time.

Amount of Stationary including Books
79.43
An Iron Chest
52.50
An Office at the rent of 60 Dollars per ann. for 5 months
25.00
A clerk, at the rate of 270 Dollars per annum for 5 months
112.50
Net proceeds to the 1st. of January 1790
 94.79

364.22
Though the Iron Chest and Office Books seem to me to be proper articles of debit against the United States, I have not charged them least they should be disallowed and I thought it better to wait for your approbation. According to the present system of Duties I expect the annual amount in this District will be 40.000 dollars. Total amount of Surveyor’s fees from the 1st. of August 1789 to the 1st. of January 1790. $182.56 and, as he is at no expense of office the collector being his Clerk, it may be considered as the net produce.
I have the honor to be Sir!   Your most Obedt. H’ble Servant
Charles Lee, Collector at Alexandria


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, 30 January 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Treasury Department, January 30, 1790. Writes concerning the payment of pensions to invalids.