Title: Remarks on the Quebec Bill: Part Two, [22 June 1775]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[New York, June 22, 1775]
Having considered the nature of this bill, with regard to civil government, I am next to examine it with relation to religion, and to endeavour to shew, that the Church of Rome has now the sanction of a legal establishment, in the province of Quebec. In order to do this the more satisfactorily, I beg leave to adopt the definition given of an established religion, by a certain writer, who has taken great pains to evince the contrary. “An established religion,” says he, “is a religion, which the civil authority engages, not only to protect, but to support.” This act makes effectual provision not only for the protection, but for the permanent support of Popery, as is evident from the following clause, “And for the more perfect security and ease of the minds of the inhabitants of the said province, it is hereby declared, that his Majesty’s subjects professing the religion of the church of Rome in the said province, may have, hold, and enjoy, the free exercise of the religion of the church of Rome, subject to the King’s supremacy, &c. and that the clergy of the said church may hold, receive and enjoy their accustomed dues and rights, &c.”
This is represented as a bare permission to the clergy, to enjoy the usual emoluments of their functions; and not as a legal provision for their support. Much stress seems to be laid on the word may which is commonly italickised. But though the phraseology be artful, yet it is easy to perceive, that it operates to the same effect, as if it had been more positive and emphatical. The clergy may hold, receive and enjoy their accustomed dues and rights. They may, if they please: It is at their option, and must depend upon their will; and consequently there must be a correspondent obligation upon their parishoners, to comply with that will and to pay those dues, when required. What the law gives us an unconditional permission to enjoy, no person can legally withold from us. It becomes our property, and we can enforce our right to it. If the legislature of this colony were to decree, that the clergy of the different denominations may hold, receive and enjoy tithes of their respective congregations, we should soon find, that it would have the same efficacy, as if it were decreed, that the several congregations should pay tithes to their respective clergy. For otherwise the legislature might confer a right, which had no co-relative obligation, and which must therefore be void and inefficacious. But this is contradictory and impossible.
“Tithes in Canada (it is said) are the property of the Romish Church; and permitting a tolerated church to enjoy its own property, is far short of the idea of an establishment.” But I should be glad to know, in the first place, how tithes can be the property of any but an established church; and, in the next, how they came to be the property of the Romish Church, in Canada, during the intermediate space between the surrender of that province to the English and the passing of this act. Nothing can be deemed my property, to which, I have not a perfect and uncontrolable right by the laws. If a church have not a similar right to tithes, it can have no property in them; and if it have, it is plain the laws must have made provision for its support, or in other words must have established it.
Previous to the surrender of Canada, the Catholic religion was established there, by the laws of France; and tithes were on that account the legal property of the church of Rome; and could not be withheld by the laity, though eversomuch disposed to it. But, after the surrender, this circumstance took a different turn. The French laws being no longer in force, the establishment of the Romish church ceased of course, and, with it, the property which it before had in tithes. It is true, the clergy may have continued to receive and enjoy their customary dues; tithes and other perquisites; but they were not, for all that, the property of the church, because it had lost its legal right to them; and it was at the discretion of the laity to withhold them, if they had thought proper, or to abridge them, and place them upon a more moderate footing. Their voluntary concurrence was necessary, to give their priests a right to demand them, as before. But by the late act, this matter is again put into its former situation. Tithes are now become the property of the church as formerly; because it again has a legal claim to them, and the conditional consent of the people is set aside. Thus we see, that this act does not in fact, permit “a tolerated church to enjoy its own property;” but gives it a real and legal property in that, which it before held, from the bounty and liberality of its professors; and which they might withhold or diminish at pleasure. And this, in the most proper sense, converts it into an establishment.
The characteristic difference between a tolerated and established religion consist in this—With respect to the support of the former, the law is passive and improvident; leaving it to those, who profess it, to make as much, or as little provision, as they shall judge expedient; and to vary and alter that provision, as their circumstances may require. In this manner, the Presbyterians and other sects are tolerated in England. They are allowed to exercise their religion without molestation; and to maintain their clergy as they think proper. These are wholly dependent upon their congregations, and can exact no more than they stipulate and are satisfied to contribute. But with respect to the support of the latter, the law is active and provident. Certain precise dues (tithes, &c.) are legally annexed to the clerical office, independent on the liberal contributions of the people; which is exactly the case with the Canadian priests, and therefore no reasonable impartial man will doubt, that the religion of the church of Rome is established in Canada. While tithes were the free, though customary, gift of the people, as was the case before the passing of the act in question, the Romish church was only in a state of toleration. But when the law came to take cognizance of them; and, by determining their permanent existence, destroyed the free agency of the people; it then resumed the nature of an establishment, which it had been divested of, at the time of the capitulation.
As to the Protestant religion, it is often asserted, that ample provision has often been made, by the act, for its future establishment; to prove which, the writer before mentioned, has quoted a clause, in the following mutilated manner, “It is provided (says he) that his Majesty, his heirs, or successors, may make such provision out of the accustomed dues or rights, for the encouragement of the Protestant religion, and for the maintenance of a Protestant clergy, within the said province, as he, or they shall, from time to time, think necessary and expedient.”
It must excite a mixture of anger and disdain, to observe the wretched arts, to which a designing administration and its abettors are driven, in order to conceal the enormity of their measures. This whole clause, in its true and original construction, is destitute of meaning; and was evidently inserted for no other end, than to deceive, by the appearance of a provident regard for the Protestant religion. The act first declares, “That his Majesty’s subjects professing the religion of the Church of Rome may have, hold and enjoy the free exercise of their religion; and that the clergy of the said church may hold, receive and enjoy their accustomed dues and rights.” Then follows this clause:
“Provided nevertheless, that it shall be lawful for his Majesty, his heirs and successors, to make such provision out of the rest of the said accustomed dues and rights, for the encouragement of the Protestant religion, for the maintenance and support of a Protestant clergy, within the said province, as he, or they shall, from time to time, think necessary and expedient.” Thus we see, the Romish clergy are to have, hold and enjoy their accustomed dues and rights, and the rest, or remainder of them is to be applied towards the encouragement of the Protestant religion, but when they have had their wonted dues, I fancy it will puzzle administration, by any effort of political chymistry, to produce the rest or remainder. Suppose for instance, A had made an actual settlement of an hundred pounds upon B and, by a subsequent act, should declare that B should still continue to hold and enjoy his accustomed and annual bounty, and that the rest of the said bounty should be given to C, it is evident, that C would have nothing, because there would be no rest whatever. Exactly parallel and analogous is the case in hand. The Romish Priests are to have their accustomed dues and rights; and the rest of the said dues and rights is to be dedicated to the encouragement of the Protestant religion.
In the above recited quotation, there is a chasm, the words the rest of being artfully omitted, to give the passage some meaning, which it has not in itself. With this amendment, the sense must be, that his Majesty might appropriate what portion of the customary revenues of the Romish clergy, he should think proper, to the support and maintenance of protestant churches: But according to the real words of the act, he can only devote the rest, or remainder of such revenues to that purpose, which, as I have already shewn, is nothing: So that the seeming provision in favour of the protestant religion is intirely verbal and delusory. Excellent must be the encouragement, it will derive from this source!
But this is not all: Had there been really provision made, to be applied at the discretion of his Majesty, I should still consider this act as an atrocious infraction on the rights of Englishmen, in a point of the most delicate and momentous concern. No protestant Englishman would consent to let the free exercise of his religion depend upon the mere pleasure of any man, however great or exalted. The privilege of worshipping the deity in the manner his conscience dictates, which is one of the dearest he enjoys, must in that case be rendered insecure and precarious. Yet this is the unhappy situation, to which the protestant inhabitants of Canada are now reduced. The will of the King must give law to their consciences. It is in his power to keep them for ever dispossessed of all religious immunities; and there is too much reason to apprehend, that the same motives which instigated the act, would induce him to give them as little future encouragement as possible.
I imagine, it will clearly appear from what has been offered, that “the Roman catholic religion instead of being tolerated as stipulated by the treaty of peace, is established” by the late act; and that the protestant religion has been left intirely destitute and unbefriended in Canada. But if there should be any, who think, that the indulgence granted does not extend to a perfect establishment, and that it may be justified by the terms of the treaty and the subsequent conduct of the Canadians; and if they should also be at a loss to perceive the dangerous nature of the act with respect to the other colonies, I would beg their further attention to the following considerations.
However justifiable this act may be in relation to the province of Quebec with its ancient limits, it cannot be defended by the least plausible pretext, when it is considered as annexing such a boundless extent of new territory to the old. If a free form of government had “been found by experience, to be inapplicable to the state and circumstances of the province”; and if “a toleration less generous, although it might have fulfilled the letter of the articles of the treaty, would not have answered the expectations of the Canadians, nor have left upon their minds favourable impressions of British justice and honour:” if these reasons be admitted as true, and allowed their greatest weight, they only proved, that it might be just and polite to place the province of Quebec alone, with its former boundaries, in the circumstances of civil and religious government, which are established by this act. But when it is demanded why it has also added the immense tract of country that surrounds all these colonies, to that province, and has placed the whole under the same exceptionable institutions, both civil and religious, the advocates for administration must be confounded and silent.
This act develops the dark designs of the ministry more fully than any thing they have done; and shews, that they have formed a systematic project of absolute power. The present policy of it is evidently this. By giving a legal sanction to the accustomed dues of the priests, it was intended to interest them in behalf of administration; and by means of the dominion they possess over the minds of the laity, together with the appearance of good will towards their religion, to prevent any dissatisfaction, which might arise from the loss of their civil rights, and to propitiate them to the great purposes in contemplation; first the subjugation of the colonies and afterwards that of Britain itself. It was necessary to throw out some such lure, to reconcile them to the exertions of that power, which has been communicated to the King, and which the emergencies of the times may require in a very extensive degree.
The future policy of it demands particular attention. The nature of civil government will hereafter put a stop to emigrations from other parts of the British dominions thither, and from all other free countries. The preeminent advantages secured to the Roman catholic religion will discourage all protestant soldiers of whatsoever nation: And on these accounts the province will be settled and inhabited by none, but papists. If lenity and moderation are observed in administering the laws, the natural advantages of this fertile infant country, united to the indulgence given to their religion, will attract droves of emigrants, from all the Roman catholic states in Europe; and these colonies, in time, will find themselves encompassed with innumerous hosts of neighbours, disaffected to them, both because of difference in religion and government. How dangerous their situation would be, let every man of common sense judge.
What can speak in plainer language, the corruption of the British Parliament, than its act; which invests the King with absolute power over a little world, (if I may be allowed the expression) and makes such ample provision for the popish religion, and leaves the protestant, in such dependent disadvantageous situation that he is like to have no other subjects, in this part of his domain, than Roman catholics; who, by reason of their implicit devotion to their priests, and the superlative reverence they bear to those, who countenance and favour their religion, will be the voluntary instruments of ambition; and will be ready, at all times, to second the oppressive designs of administration against the other parts of the empire.
Hence while our ears are stunned with the dismal sounds of New-England’s republicanism, bigotry, and intolerance, it behoves us to be upon our guard against the deceitful wiles of those, who would persuade us, that we have nothing to fear from the operation of the Quebec act. We should consider it as being replete with danger, to ourselves, and as threatening ruin to our posterity. Let us not therefore suffer ourselves to be terrified at the prospect of an imaginary and fictitious Sylla, and, by that means, be led blindfold into a real and destructive Charybdis.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Jay, 26 November 1775
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jay, John

New York Novem 26. 1775
Dear Sir
I take the liberty to trouble you with some remarks on a matter which to me appears of not a little importance; doubting not that you will use your influence in Congress to procure a remedy for the evil I shall mention, if you think the considerations I shall urge are of that weight they seem in my judgment to possess.
You will probably ere this reaches you have heard of the late incursion made into this city by a number of horsemen from New England under the command of Capt Sears, who took away Mr. Rivington’s types, and a Couteau or two. Though I am fully sensible how dangerous and pernicious Rivington’s press has been, and how detestable the character of the man is in every respect, yet I cannot help disapproving and condemning this step.
In times of such commotion as the present, while the passions of men are worked up to an uncommon pitch there is great danger of fatal extremes. The same state of the passions which fits the multitude, who have not a sufficient stock of reason and knowlege to guide them, for opposition to tyranny and oppression, very naturally leads them to a contempt and disregard of all authority. The due medium is hardly to be found among the more intelligent, it is almost impossible among the unthinking populace. When the minds of these are loosened from their attachment to ancient establishments and courses, they seem to grow giddy and are apt more or less to run into anarchy. These principles, too true in themselves, and confirmed to me both by reading and my own experience, deserve extremely the attention of those, who have the direction of public affairs. In such tempestuous times, it requires the greatest skill in the political pilots to keep men steady and within proper bounds, on which account I am always more or less alarmed at every thing which is done of mere will and pleasure, without any proper authority. Irregularities I know are to be expected, but they are nevertheless dangerous and ought to be checked, by every prudent and moderate mean. From these general maxims, I disapprove of the irruption in question, as serving to cherish a spirit of disorder at a season when men are too prone to it of themselves.
Moreover, New England is very populous and powerful. It is not safe to trust to the virtue of any people. Such proceedings will serve to produce and encourage a spirit of encroachment and arrogance in them. I like not to see potent neighbours indulged in the practice of making inroads at pleasure into this or any other province.
You well know too, sir, that antipathies and prejudices have long subsisted between this province and New England. To this may be attributed a principal part of the disaffection now prevalent among us. Measures of the present nature, however they may serve to intimidate, will secretly revive and increase those ancient animosities, which though smothered for a while will break out when there is a favorable opportunity.
Besides this, men coming from a neighbouring province to chastise the notorious friends of the ministry here, will hold up an idea to our ennemies not very advantageous to our affairs. They will imagine that the New Yorkers are totally, or a majority of them, disaffected to the American cause, which makes the interposal of their neighbours necessary: or that such violences will breed differences and effect that which they have been so eagerly wishing, a division and qurrelling among ourselves. Every thing of such an aspect must encourage their hopes.
Upon the whole the measure is condemned, by all the cautious and prudent among the whigs, and will evidently be productive of secret jealousy and ill blood if a stop is not put to things of the kind for the future.
All the good purposes that could be expected from such a step will be answered; and many ill consequences will be prevented if your body gently interposes a check for the future. Rivington will be intimidated & the tories will be convinced that the other colonies will not tamely see the general cause betrayed by the Yorkers. A favourable idea will be impressed of your justice & impartiality in discouraging the encroachments of any one province on another; and the apprehensions of prudent men respecting the ill-effects of an ungoverned spirit in the people of New England will be quieted. Believe me sir it is a matter of consequence and deserves serious attention
The tories it is objected by some are growing insolent and clamorous: It is necessary to repress and overawe them. There is truth in this; but the present remedy is a bad one. Let your body station in different parts of the province most tainted, with the ministerial infection, a few regiments of troops, raised in Philadelphia the Jerseys or any other province except New England. These will suffice to strengthen and support the Whigs who are still I flatter myself a large majority and to suppress the efforts of the tories. The pretence for this would be plausible. There is no knowing how soon the Ministry may make an attempt upon New York. There is reason to believe they will not be long before they turn their attention to it. In this there will be some order & regularity, and no grounds of alarm to our friends.
I am sir with very great Esteem—   Your most hum servant
A. Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Jay, [4 January 1776]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jay, John

[New York, January 4, 1776]
Dear Sir
The inclosed was intended by the last post, but I was disappointed in sending it. You will find by the papers, that a proclamation has been issued for dissolving the old Assembly; writs are making out for the election of a new.
The tories seem to give out that there will be no opposition, but I suspect this as an artifice to throw the people off their guard. I doubt not however the whig Interest will prevail.
I should be glad to see you here with all convenient dispatch; though perhaps your presence may not be absolutely necessary, yet I like not to hazard any thing, or to neglect any step which may have the least tendency to insure success.
I am   Your most hum servt
A Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Alexander McDougall, [17 March 1776]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McDougall, Alexander

[New York, March 17, 1776]
Newyork. March 17th 1776. Recived of Col. McDougall Seventy three Pounds, Nineteen Shillings and a Penny half penny for the Pay of the Commissioned Non-Commissioned officers and privates of my Company to the first Instant for which I [have] given three other receipts.
£73.19.1 ¾
Alex: Hamilton Capt


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Alexander McDougall, [4 April 1776]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McDougall, Alexander

[New York, April 4, 1776]
New York April 4th, 1776. Received of Colonel McDougall one hundred and seventy two pounds, three shillings and five pence half penny, for the pay of the Commissioned, Non commissioned officers and privates of my company to the first instant, for which I have given three other receipts.
£172.3.5½.
Alex Hamilton Capt


Title: Return of Captain Alexander Hamilton’s Company of Artillery, [20 April 1776]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[New York] April 20, 1776. The return is headed: “A Return of the Colony Company of Artillery commanded by Alexander Hamilton April 20th, 1776” and is in the form of a table showing the number of each rank present and fit for duty, sick, on furlough, on command duty, or taken as prisoner. Hamilton’s company contained a total of 69 commissioned and noncommissioned officers.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the Provincial Congress of the Colony of New York, [26 May 1776]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Provincial Congress of the Colony of New York

[New York, May 26, 1776]
Gentlemen,
I take the liberty to request your attention to a few particulars, which will be of considerable importance to the future progress of the company under my command, and I will be much obliged to you for as speedy a determination concerning them as you can conveniently give. The most material is respecting the pay. Our company, by their articles, are to be subject to the same regulations, and to receive the same pay as the Continental artillery. Hitherto, I have conformed to the standard laid down in the Journal of the Congress, published the 10th May, 1775, but I am well informed that by some later regulation the pay of the artillery has been augmented and now stands according to the following rates: captain, £10 13s. 4d.; captain-lieutenant, £8; lieutenants, each £7. 6s. 8d.; sergeants, £3 6s. 8d.; corporals, £3 1s. 4d.; bombadiers, £1s. 4d.; gunners £3; matrosses, £2 17s. 4d.; drummers and fifers, £3. By compairing these with my pay rolls, you will discover a considerable difference, and I doubt not you will be easily sensible that such a difference should not exist. I am not personally interested in having an augmentation agreeable to the above rates, because my own pay will remain the same that it now is; but I make this application on behalf of the company, as I am fully convinced such a disadvantageous distinction will have a very pernicious effect on the minds and behaviour of the men. They do the same duty with the other companies and think themselves entitled to the same pay. They have been already comparing accounts and many marks of discontent have lately appeared on this score. As to the circumstance of our being confined to the defence of the Colony, it will have little or no weight, for there are but few in the company who would not as willingly leave the Colony on any necessary expedition as stay in it; and they will not therefore think it reasonable to have their pay curtailed on such a consideration.
Capt. Beauman, I understand, enlists all his men on the above terms, and this makes it very difficult for me to get a single recruit, for men will naturally go to those who pay them best. On this account I should wish to be immediately authorized to offer the same pay to all who may incline to enlist.
The next thing I should wish to know is, whether I might be allowed any actual expenses that might attend the enlistment of men, should I send into the country for that purpose; the expense would not be great, and it would enable me to complete my company at once, and bring it the sooner into proper order and discipline. Also, I should be glad to be informed if my company is to be allowed the frock which is given to the other troops as a bounty. This frock would be extremely serviceable in summer while the men are on fatigue, and would put it in their power to save their uniform much longer.
I am, gentlemen, with the greatest respect,   Your most obedient servant,

A. Hamilton, Capt.
The Honourable the Provincial Congress.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from the Provincial Congress of the Colony of New York, [31 May 1776]
From: Provincial Congress of the Colony of New York
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, May 31, 1776. An entry in the Journals of the New York Provincial Congress under this date reads: “Ordered, that Capt. Alexander Hamilton, or any or either of his officers, be and they are hereby authorized to go on board any ship or vessel in this harbour, and take with them such guard as may be necessary, and that they make strict search for any men who may have deserted from Captain Hamilton’s company.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York, 26 July 1776
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York

[New York] July 26, 1776.
Gentlemen,
I am obliged to write you, to remove a difficulty which arises respecting the quantity of subsistence which is to be allowed my men. Enclosed you have the rate of rations which is the standard allowance of the whole Continental and even the Provincial army; but it seems Mr. Curtenius can not afford to supply us with more than his contract stipulates, which by comparison, you will perceive is considerably less than the forementioned rate. My men, you are sensible, are by their articles, entitled to the same subsistence with the Continental troops; and it would be to them an insupportable discrimination, as well as a breach of the terms of their enlistment, to give them almost a third less provisions than the whole army besides receives. I doubt not you will readily put this matter upon a proper footing. Hitherto, we have drawn our full allowance from Mr. Curtenius, but he did it upon the supposition that he should have a farther consideration for the extraordinary supply. At present however he scruples to proceed in the same way, until it can be put upon a more certain foundation.
I am, gentlemen, With the utmost esteem and respect, Your most obdt. and most hum. servant,
A. Hamilton,Capt. of New-York Artillery.
The Honourable the Provincial Congress.


Title: Account with Alsop Hunt and James Hunt, [11 October 1776]
From: Hamilton, Alexander,Hunt, Alsop,Hunt, James
To:

[New York] October 11, 1776. Account between Alsop Hunt and James Hunt and Hamilton for “Buckskin Breeches Delivered the Soldiers of the New york Artillery” company commanded by Hamilton. The account runs from March 5 to October 11, 1776, and was not settled until 1785. A receipt, verso, reads: “Received Payment of the within Acct. in full thereof and all other Demands, per Alsop Hunt & Jas Hunt. March 9th 1785.” The account is addressed incorrectly to “Colo. Andrew Hamilton.”


Title: Return of Two Companies of Artillery, [5 December 1776]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

Trenton, December 5, 1776. The return is headed “Return of the States of part of two Companeys of artilery Commanded by Col Henery Knox & Capt Drury & Capt Lt Moores of Capt Hamiltons Com.”


Title: Warrant for Captain Alexander Hamilton, [19 December 1776]
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Bucks County, Pennsylvania] December 19, 1776. In George Washington’s “Warrant Book No. 2” an entry for this date reads:”To Capn Alexr Hamilton his pay for his Coy. Arty from 1st Sepr to 1 Decr—1562 [dollars].”


Title: Alexander Hamilton’s Account with the Government of the United States, 7 March 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

1776–1785

I

A

March 7th. 1789

Army in old Emissions Dr.

To John Pierce Pay Master General, his account

old emissions

For Five thousand six hundred and twenty nine dollars 30/90 old Emissions that Lieut Col: Hamilton late aid de Camp to General Washington, credits on the settlement of his account at the Treasury the 2nd instant the specie value of which deducted from the amount

  in Specie
5.629.30 O.E.

Army in Specie Dr. to Sundries
   (specie)

For the discharge of Lieut Colo. Hamiltons account above mentioned,

To John Pierce Pay Master General.

  For Sixty dollars paid by him to said Hamilton August 81
$60.

To John Ross cloathing stipulated for on the surrender of York. Virga.

For Sixty six dollars Sixty ninetieths of a dollar the amount of sundry articles credited by him

  being part of the Cloathing contracted for at the surrender of York
$66.60

To Michael Hillegas Treasurer,

For a Warrant drawn the 6th. instant by the Superintendant of Finance in favor of said Lieut Col Hamilton for seven hundred and five dollars Sixty nine ninetieths of a dollar Specie being part of

  the balance due him
705.69

To Funded debt.

For two thousand Eight hundred and twenty dollars funded being the residue of the balance due to said Hamilton & for which a Certificate was this day given by the Register, pursuant to a Warrant from the Superintendant of Finance dated the 6 inst. on interest at 6 ⅌ Ct. from the 4th. March 1789,

  & entered to the credit of said Hamilton in Aux: Books funded debt W. 13 pa. 22
 2.820.

$3.652.39

II

Old Emission account

Dr.
Capt. Alexr Hamilton of a Compy. of Arty. now Aid de Camp In a/c with the United States
Cr.

1776

1785

Octr.
To William Palfrey

Dec
By Old Emissions reduced & accounted for

  For pay of his Compy for Aug.

  for in Specie

    1776

For this sum reduced & carried to

774. 3 72

  his Specie Debit 7942.30

Decr.
  For pay of his Co. from 1st.

By the United States

    Septr. to 1st.

  for his pay & the pay of his

    Decr. 76 1652.

Company to Feby 28th.

Mar
  For pay of his Co. for Decr. 76

  1777
3522.44

420 9 72

  For Do.   Do. to 28 Feby 77

766 22 90

1186. 31 72

1778

Feby
  For his pay in full to

    31 Jany 78 646.

Aug
  For his pay pay to 31 July

    1778 360

Nov.
  For his pay pay to 31 Oct.

    1778 180.

Decr.
  For his pay pay for Nov. &

    Decr. 78 120.

1779

May
  For his pay & rations to May

  1779 1007. 2 90

July
To John Pierce Jr.

  For his pay for May & June 79

200.

1780

Mar
  For his pay & subsce. from

    1 July 79 to 1 March 1780

3129. 30 90

May
  For his pay & Sube. for Mar

    & April 1780 920.

Aug
  For his pay & sube. from 1

    May to 1 August 1780 1380

1164
74

1164.74

The above is an Extract taken from The Books of the late Pay office now in this office
Department of War   Accountants Office
June 15th. 1809   Wm Simmons

III

Specie Account
Dr.
Lt. Col. Alexr. Hamilton In a/c with The United States.
Cr.

1781
To Richard Lloyd

By Pay of the Army

  For this sum received of him
66.60
1785

1782
To John Pierce P.M.G.

Decr
For pay as Aid de Camp from March

For this sum received of him for

  1777 to 31 Decr. 1781
3480.

  pay for Jany. & Feby. 1782
120.

Rations from 2 June 1778 to 31

To Nicholas Fish

  July 1781 @ 4 per day is 4620

  For one months pay; paid him at

  @ 10d.
513.30

  the Head of Elk in Aug 1781,

Ditto from 1 Aug 1781 to 31 Decr

  which he credits in his settlement

  following 612 rations @ 9½d.
64.54

  with the Auditor
60.

For pay due him for January &

1785

  February 1782
120.

Decr.
To Specie arising from old Emis-

       Drs.

  sions reduced For 7942 30 90 Drs.

  reduced to Specie
405.45

To United States Funded Debt

1785
For the Registers Certificate on

Dec
  Interest from 4th March 1782
2820.

To United States

  For a Warrant on the Treasurer

  received March 7th. 1782 in full
 705.69

4177.84

4177.84

The above is an Extract taken from The Books of the late Pay office now in this office
Department of War   Accountants Office
June 15th. 1809   Wm Simmons


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from The Pennsylvania Evening Post, [25 January 1777]
From: Pennsylvania Evening Post
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, January 25, 1777]
Captain Alexander Hamilton, of the New-York company of artillery, by applying to the printer of this paper, may hear of something to his advantage.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Hugh Knox, 14 February 1777
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Knox, Hugh

[February 14, 1777. In a letter to Hamilton dated April–May, 1777, Knox wrote: “I could not omit acknowledging the receipt of you⟨r⟩ Very Circumstantial and Satisfactory Letter of the 14th. Feby.” Letter not found.]


Title: General Orders, Appointing Alexander Hamilton Aide-de-Camp to General Washington, 1 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Head-Quarters, Morristown [New Jersey] March 1, 1777.
Alexander Hamilton Esquire is appointed Aide-De-Camp to the Commander in Chief; and is to be respected and obeyed as such.
Extract of General OrdersAlexd Scammell   Adjt. Genl.


Title: George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Archibald Campbell, 1 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Campbell, Archibald

Morristown [New Jersey] March 1, 1777. Seeks to mitigate severity of Campbell’s imprisonment.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Benedict Arnold, 3 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Arnold, Benedict

Morristown [New Jersey] March 3, 1777. Discusses Arnold’s proposed attack against Rhode Island. Notes that Arnold’s name was not on list of newly promoted major generals.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General George Clinton, 3 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Morristown [New Jersey] March 3, 1777. Asks Clinton to decide location of cannon on the Hudson. Places choice of men and officers for Clinton’s forces in Clinton’s hands.


Title: George Washington to Major General William Heath, 3 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

Morristown [New Jersey] March 3, 1777. Orders Heath to relieve Major General Artemas Ward.


Title: George Washington to Major General Joseph Spencer, 3 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Spencer, Joseph

Morristown [New Jersey] March 3, 1777. Requests that proposed Rhode Island venture be undertaken only if success is certain. Discusses inoculation of troops.


Title: George Washington to Major General Artemas Ward, 3 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Ward, Artemas

Morristown [New Jersey] March 3, 1777. Accepts Ward’s resignation. Appoints Major General William Heath to succeed Ward.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General William Woodford, 3 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Woodford, William

Morristown [New Jersey] March 3, 1777. Discusses Woodford’s loss of seniority. Urges Woodford to accept promotion to brigadier general.


Title: George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Robert Hanson Harrison, [4 March 1777]
From: Washington, George
To: Harrison, Robert Hanson

By His Excellency George Washington Esqr., General and Commander in chief of all the Forces of the Thirteen united States of America
[Morristown, New Jersey, March 4, 1777]
To Lieutenant Colonel Robert H Harrison.
Differences in opinion having arisen, between General Howe and myself, respecting the construction of a proposition, made the 30th. of July and acceded to the 1st. of August last, for the exchange of prisoners, whereby it was stipulated, that officers should be given for officers of equal rank, soldier for soldier, and citizen for citizen; for the accommodation of these differences, and to remove every just cause of complaint on the part of the enemy, if such there be; You are to meet any officer, not of inferior rank to yourself, who shall come properly authorized to treat upon the subject; and to adopt such measures as you shall deem adequate to that end.
Experience having also shewn, that the agreement above recited is not sufficiently definite to answer all the salutary purposes intended by it, nor sufficiently comprehensive to include the various cases incident to the state of prisoners, You are hereby vested with full power and authority to devise and conclude upon such improvements, in aid of the same, as shall appear necessary, for establishing a more regular and explicit mode of Exchange, as well with respect to the Prisoners who have been as those who shall be hereafter taken; making mutual provision for such an allowance of pay and necessaries as their comfort and welfare, during their captivity, may require; And finally to treat, determine and agree upon all matters whatsoever relative to Prisoners of War, on the principles of justice and humanity, and conformable to the most civilized customs and usages, for the greater ease, convenience, and security of all captives belonging to the armies under our respective command: For all which, This shall be your sufficient warrant; and your engagements, being mutually interchanged, shall be ratified and confirmed by me.

By His Excellency’scommand.Alexander HamiltonAid De Camp
Given under my Hand and Sealat Head Quarters in Morris Townthis 4th. day of March 1777,Go: Washington


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York, [6 March 1777]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York

[Morristown, New Jersey, March 6, 1777]
The change in my own circumstances and in those of your company of Artillery lately under my command make it necessary I should inform you of the present state of things, respect⟨ing⟩ it; in order that you may determine as to the future disposal of it; and I should be happy as speedily as convenient to know your pleasure on the subject.
His Excellency has been pleased to appoint me one of his Aid du Camps. Capt Lieutenant James Moore, a promising officer, and who did credit to the state he belonged to, di⟨ed⟩ the 25th of December, after a short but excruciating fit of illness. Lie⟨ut.⟩ Gilliland, from domestic inconveniences, and other motives, resigned his Commission to General Washington about three weeks before. There remain now only two officers Lieutenant Bean & Lieuten⟨ant⟩ Thompson. Mr. Johnson began the enlistment of the Compan⟨y,⟩ contrary to his orders from the convention, for the term of a year, instead of during the war; a circumstance I was unacquainted with till lately, but which, with deaths and desertions; reduces it at present to the small number of 25 men.
If you think proper to retain the company on its present establishment it will be necessary to fill up the vacanc⟨ies and⟩ make provision to have the number of men completed. In this cas⟨e I⟩ would beg leave to recommend to your attention Lieutenant Thompson, as fa⟨r⟩ as a Capt Lieutenancy; but Mr. Bean though a brave man, h⟨as⟩ a failing that disqualifies him for any farther preferment. As to the new arrangement for the Artillery, if I am n⟨ot⟩ misinformed, the number of officers is increased to six & the pay of both officers and men is raised to ⟨a⟩ fourth part more than the other troops. As the rest ⟨of⟩ the Company can hardly answer any special good purposes to the s⟨tate I⟩ imagine you will resolve to resign it. There will be no ⟨difficulty⟩ in having it transferred to the Continental establishment.
I should have advised you earlier of these ⟨changes⟩ but, am just recovered from a long and severe fit of ⟨sickness⟩.
I have the honor to be with the most sincere respect   Gentlemen
Yr. most Obedient Ser


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 6 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Morristown [New Jersey] March 6, 1777. Requests a return of troops. Questions validity of some returns and suspects fraud. Orders McDougall to have troops in readiness at Peekskill.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General William Smallwood, 8 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Smallwood, William

Morristown [New Jersey] March 8, 1777. Instructs Smallwood to order all officers and men not needed for recruiting to repair to camp.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 10 March 1777
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McDougall, Alexander

Head Qrs. Morris Town [New Jersey] March 10th. 1777
Dr. Sir,
Your letter of the 7th. instant to his Excellency fell into my hands. He has been very much indisposed for three or four days past, insomuch that his attention to business is pronounced by the Doctor to be very improper; and we have made a point of keeping all from him which was not indispensibly necessary. I detained your express a day in hopes of a convenient opportunity to communicate your letter to him; but though he has grown considerably better than he was, I find he is so much pestered with matters, which cannot be avoided, that I am obliged to refrain from troubling him on the occasion; especially as I conceive the only answer he would give, may be given by myself.
It is greatly to be lamented that the present state of things does not admit of having the requisite number of troops at every post: on the contrary the most important, are deficient; and we are under the necessity, of calling all that can be gotten together to those places where the danger is the most pressing and imminent. ’Till matters get into a better train, it is impossible but those posts must suffer which, from their situation ought only to be the objects of a secondary attention. We have, I think, the most decisive evidence that the enemy’s operations will be directed on this quarter; to this end they are drawing all their forces into the Jerseys, and as soon as the weather will permit ’tis expected they will move towards Philadelphia. Not being very numerous ’tis unlikely they should attempt such an object, without collecting their whole force; and for that reason ’tis not much to be apprehended they should make any stroke of the kind you mention, which would require a number of men they could not spare, and would proba⟨bly⟩ delay the execution of what clearly appears to be their principal intention.
The General in a letter to you of the  instant desires all the York regiments not gone to Ticonderoga to be assembled at Peeks Kill. The reason of this must be obvious to you; and for the same reason, he has requested a reinforcement of 2000 Connecticut Militia to rendesvous at the same place: Though the design is chiefly that they may be ready to join the army here; they will in the mean time, in some measure, answer the purposes you have in view.
I am Dr Sir   Yr. most Obedient servant
A Hamilton


Title: George Washington to Major General Thomas Mifflin, 11 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Mifflin, Thomas

Morristown [New Jersey] March 11, 1777. Orders preparations for approaching campaign.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Gold Selleck Silliman, 11 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Silliman, Gold Selleck

Morristown [New Jersey] March 11, 1777. Discusses British naval feints. Is not apprehensive of an attack on Connecticut and, therefore, refuses to send requested detachments.


Title: George Washington to Major General Philip Schuyler, 12 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Morristown [New Jersey] March 12, 1777. Discusses necessity of concentrating forces. States that Philadelphia is enemy’s object. Weighs advantages of centralizing forces at Peekskill as against Ticonderoga.


Title: George Washington to Connecticut and Rhode Island Colonels, 12 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Connecticut and Rhode Island Colonels

Morristown [New Jersey] March 12, 1777. Requests exact return of troops. Orders colonels to send all their men to join the Army. Instructs colonels to remain behind to complete their regiments.


Title: George Washington to New York Colonels, 12 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: New York Colonels

Morristown [New Jersey] March 12, 1777. Requests exact return of troops. Orders recruits to Peekskill. Instructs colonels to remain behind to complete their regiments.


Title: George Washington to Pennsylvania Colonels, 12 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Pennsylvania Colonels

Morristown [New Jersey] March 12, 1777. Requests exact return of troops. Orders men who have had smallpox to the Army, others to Philadelphia to be inoculated. Instructs colonels to remain in Philadelphia to supply their regiments.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Andrew Ward, [14 March 1777]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Ward, Andrew

[Morristown, New Jersey, March 14, 1777]
Since writing the within, The General received your letter, respecting the innoculation of your regiment, and permission for yourself to go home. He has removed the difficulty in the way of innoculating your regiment, but has thought proper to refer the decision of what you request concerning yourself to Generals Stephen & Maxwell; and if they think the situation of affairs, requires your going home, your desire will be complied with. In addition to what you are called upon to explain, within; The General would be glad to know on what particular commands, the 108 men you return, are employed.
I am Sir   Your hum servant
A Hamilton   ADC
General A Ward


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 15 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Morristown [New Jersey] March 15, 1777. Approves of McDougall’s decision to order troops to Forts Constitution and Montgomery instead of to Peekskill, New York. Approves stationing of Colonel Henry B. Livingston in Westchester to secure magazines. Urges inoculation when needed. Instructs McDougall to receive Massachusetts troops.


Title: George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 15 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Morristown [New Jersey] March 15, 1777. Exhorts Sullivan not to imagine slights. Discusses separate commands. States that the only separate command is that of the Northern Department.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from the New York Committee of Correspondence, 17 March 1777
From: New York Committee of Correspondence
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Kingston [New York] 17th: March 1777
Dr Sir
We are to inform you that Robt. R Livingston is with us a Committee appointed by Convention to correspond with you at Head Quarters. You will give us Pleasure in the Information that his Excellency is recovered from the Illness which had seized him the Day before Messrs. Cuyler and Taylor left Head Quarters. Any Occurrences in the Army which may have happened you will please to communicate.
In Answer to your Letter to the Convention of the sixth of March Instant We are to inform you that it is determined to permit that Company to join the Continental Army for which you will take the necessary Steps. At the same Time you will take some Notice of the Disposition of our Guns which as you well know are all in the Continental Service & unless some little Attention is paid to them We may perhaps never see them again.
We are Sir your most obedt. & humble Servants
Gouvr Morris
Wm Allison


Title: George Washington to John Rutledge, 17 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Rutledge, John

Morristown [New Jersey] March 17, 1777. Discusses proposed expedition against St. Augustine.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from the New York Committee of Correspondence, 19 March 1777
From: New York Committee of Correspondence
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Kingston, New York, March 19, 1777. On March 22, 1777, Hamilton wrote to the Committee of Correspondence: “I had the pleasure of receiving yours of the 19th. instant.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the New York Committee of Correspondence, 20 March 1777
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: New York Committee of Correspondence

[Morristown, New Jersey, March 20, 1777]
Gentlemen,
With chearfulness, I embrace the proposal of corresponding with your convention, through you; and shall from time to time as far as my leisure will permit, and my duty warrant, communicate such transactactions as shall happen, such pieces of intelligence as shall be received and such comments upon them as shall appear necessary, to convey a true idea of what is going on in the military line. Let me caution you however, that whatever opinions I shall give, in the course of our correspondence, are to be considered merely as my private sentiments; and are never to be interpreted as an echo of those of the General; since they will not be really so, and a construction of the kind may lead into errors and be productive of inconveniences.
The present season affords nothing of importance. There are dayly little skirmishes, arising from attempts of the enemy to forage; but which, though generally favourable to us, are attended with consequences so trifling and insignificant as to be scarcely worth mentioning. They are indeed of great service in the general scale, as they serve to harass and distress the enemy, and by keeping them from forage will put them under difficulties, as to the transportation of their baggage and cannon, whenever they shalt think of making any capital movement. One thing worthy of notice is that hardly a day passes, without some deserter coming in. The fact itself, and the accounts they concurrently give, prove that the spirit of desertion runs high; and the reason assigned for it is, that many of the regiments have been a very long time without pay, and that the men are most barbarously treated if they only dare to lisp their discontent on the score of it.
’Tis rumoured, that the Congress have received a letter from Doctor Franklin, by which he seems to be in such high spirits as to prognosticate a favourable disposition of affairs in the quarter where he is. I was just now also, transiently told, that he had been received in the public character of a plenipotentiary from the American states. When it receives confirmation I will give it to you.
I shall observe your directions respecting a transferrence of the Company lately mine, to the Continental establishment; and in my next shall communicate the result of my inquiry into to the present state of your Cannon.
The General is now perfectly recovered, and added to the pleasure of returning health, enjoys the solace of his lady’s company, who has lately joined the army.
I am with much respect   Gentlemen   Your most obedient servant
A Hamilton


Title: Warrant for Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 21 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Morristown, New Jersey] March 21, 1777. An entry in George Washington’s “Warrant Book No 2” reads: “To Captain Alexr Hamilton for 1 Months Pay of the N. York Artillery to Jany. 1st—420 9/72 [dollars].” Another entry for the same date reads: “To Ditto of Do. For 2 Months Pay to 1st March—766 22/72 [dollars].”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the New York Committee of Correspondence, 2[2] March 1777
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: New York Committee of Correspondence

Head Qrs. Morris Town [New Jersey] 2[2] March 1777
Gentlemen,
Two days ago I accepted your challenge and met you for the first time in the epistolary field; since which I had the pleasure of receiving yours of the 19th. instant; and as far as circumstances will permit, close with your proposal of interchanging blows twice a week.
The present time is so unfruitful of events that it affords no intelligence worth your notice, as to transactions of a military nature. I can only say, that the British army continues to decrease by the dayly loss of prisoners and deserters taken at and coming in to the different posts, which is a striking symptom, that the situation of affairs with the enemy is not so favourable as it might be; for when an army is in good humour and its affairs prosperous, desertion is a disease that seldom prevails in it.
From all the accounts they have given us, seconded by considerations that obviously present themselves; it is my opinion the enemy will make no grand movement before the beginning of May; and perhaps not then. There is no expectation in their army of their being speedily called to the field, nor the least disposition of matters that I have heard of for a sudden excursion. It will be a long time before the roads will be fit for the transportation of Artillery, which is an essential instrument in their operations; and a still longer [time] before the ground will admit of an incampment consistent with the health and comfort of the soldiers—and it would defeat their purpose to undertake any thing of importance under circumstances, that would oblige them to divide their army in order to accommodate it. It seems also to be an opinion supported by the best reasons that the main object with which they will open the Campaign, will be the capture of Philadelphia. If so, they will have a greater probability of success by co-operating both by sea and land; and the preparations for this added to the danger of making an attempt by water at too early a season will, in all likelihood, protract the execution of their project at least ’till the time I have mentioned.

I intimated that it might perhaps be later before they would move. It seems to be a pretty general idea in their army, that they will wait for reinforcements before they take the field. Should they do this, I see not from what quarters they can expect any succours worth mentioning so early as the beginning of May. But I would lay no great stress upon this, notwithstanding the idea is countenanced by their weakness in numbers, which must make their success more doubtful, and expose them to greater hazard in whatever they attempt, than can be agreeable where so much is at stake. Much will depend however upon the comparative strength of our army, and the conception they may form of it.
Though I do not doubt your discretion, which occasioned me so readily to embrace your proposal, yet such is the delicacy of my situation, that I must beg leave to repeat, what I before observed to you, that wherever I give opinions, they are merely my own and will probably, so far from being a transcript of those of the general, differ widely from them in many respects. The one I now advance is of this kind, and is besides improper to be generally circulated; for many people who have the management of affairs are of so lethargic a complexion, that they are to be kept in action only by the fear of immediate danger; and should they get it into their heads that the enemy would remain idle for six weeks, would think they had a right to dose away forty days at least.
In my last I mentioned a rumour concerning Doctor Franklin. Since that, I have seen something, said (and I believe it) to be an extract of a letter from him to Mr. Beech of Philadelphia, in which he represents things to be in an excellent train in France, and uses this strong emphatical language, that a War between her & Britain “was as inevitable as death.” No public advices from him, that I know of, have reached Head Quarters.
I spoke to General Knox about your cannon in the Continental service. He answered, that it would be difficult to ascertain to what particular class the pieces that have been lost belonged; but he considered the Continent at all times bound to make good the number borrowed from your state; and that he had still your six pieces in his hands. I have always looked upon the matter in the same light.
I have the honor to be   Gentlemen   Your most Obdt. servant
Alex Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Gouverneur Morris, 26 March 1777
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Kingston [New York] 26th. March 1777.
Sir
By unavoidable Incidents this Letter is delayed beyond the usual Time for which I assure you I am extremely sorry. Your Favor gave great Pleasure as well to the Committee as to several Members of the House who are much pleased with your judicious Caution to distinguish between what you sport as your private Opinion and the weighty Sentiments of the General.
No Circumstance could have more contributed to our Happiness than to hear of the General’s Recovery which believe me gave universal Joy. Be pleased to make my most respectful Compliments of his Lady.
That the Enemy are willing to desert can hardly be doubted and a Variety of sufficient Reasons may easily be assigned. Want of Success is not among the least considerable. Add also to the Want of Pay the Want of Plunder. I think the Situation of the Enemy clearly demonstrates their Want of Political Wisdom & Knowlege of War at the Fountain Head. To pass over the Succession of other Blunders they committed from their Attempt on Long Island to their present Disposition, their Treatment of the Soldiery is a Monument of Folly. First to prevent their foreign Mercenaries from deserting they kept back Arrearages of Pay & secondly to prevent Mutiny & silence Murmurings they allowed the Plundering of a Country they intend to conquer. Here common Sense alone would have informed them had they listened to her Dictates that by irritating they could never subdue; that an Indulgence in Excesses would relax all Discipline. Taught by Experience they begin now to wind up the Cords, but as it was said of James the first they are always either too high or too low. Instead of liberal Discipline they ask servile Obedience. Would it not be wise to meet this with taunting Insult to encourage our Men in abuse of them as poor Slaves hired without pay yet not daring to vent a Complaint & contrast the differe⟨nt⟩ situations at the same Time inviting them to come and taste the Air of Freedom. The English are the proudest People on Earth.
You will hear more of a little Expedition against Peeks Kill at Head Quarters than I can tell you. I suppose it is intended as a Diversion; if so, it is a ridiculous one.
I am &c.
Gouvr. Morris
We this Instant received your second Letter which shall be answered in turn.


Title: George Washington to William Shippen, Junior, 26 March 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Shippen, William, Jr.

Morristown [New Jersey] March 26, 1777. Discusses the problem of soldiers dismissed from hospitals.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert R. Livingston, 29 March 1777
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Kingston [New York] March 29th. 1777.
Sir
We received your favor of the [22] Instant and am obliged to you not only for your Acceptance of a very troublesome Challenge, but for the Alacrity with which you meet us in the field. We wish it would Afford you as many Laurels, as you are like to reap elsewhere!
You have heard of the Enemy’s little Excursion to Peeks ⟨Kill⟩; we wish it may not encourage them, to make a more serious Attempt, mig⟨ht⟩ it not be proper to remove the Stores to a Place of greater Safety?
We are somewhat alarmed at Accounts of the Indians having left their Villages; from whence many conclude, that they have hostile Intentions; tho’ as they are much in our Power, we cannot be entirely of this Opinion.
Your Reasons for supposing that the Enemy will not proceed to Philadelphia ’till the beginning of May seem to be conclusive; are you equally well satisfied that they may not open their Campaign by sailing to the Northward? You have probably seen some Affidavits of People who had been to New York which were sent by Convention to his Excellency the Genl. As this does not go by our own Express we do not care to risque any thing more on this Subject, which we shall treat more at large in our next.
Time must shortly prove the truth of Mr. Franklins Conjecture, which derives great Credit from the several Accounts we daily receive of the State of Europe. You will oblige us by communicating any further Intelligence you may have received on this Subject; it’s Importance renders us solicitous about the Event.
I am   Sir by Order   Your most Obedt. humble servt.
Robt R. Livingston
Colo. Alexander Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Hugh Knox, [March 1777]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Knox, Hugh

[Morristown, New Jersey, March, 1777. On December 10, 1777, Knox, writing to Hamilton, referred to “The fine, impartial, laconic & highly descriptive account you favour’d me with of the last Years Campain, in your letter of March last.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from the New York Committee of Correspondence, 2 April 1777
From: New York Committee of Correspondence
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Kingston [New York] April 2d 1777
Sir
We received Your’s of the 29th. Ultimo and are extream⟨ly⟩ sorry to hear of your Indisposition.
In our last we expressed an Apprehension that the Enemy might possibly make Hudson’s River their first Object; not only because they could open their Campaign there earlier than they could go to Pensilvania as in one Case their Army would move by land and in the other by Water; But because having the command of the River, by taking the advantage of a southerly Wind, they would have it in their Power to run up in a few Hours and by destroying the Boats that are along it’s Banks render it impossible for Genl. Washington’s Army to cross till they have marched to Albany; a Thing almost impracticable at this Season of the Year, considering the distance and badness of the Roads. This would enable them not only to ravage all this State but to enter Connecticut on it’s Western side, where the disaffection of the People will insure them many friends. We have strained every Nerve to prepare for their reception, having vested a Power in Genl. George Clinton to make whatever Drafts he may think necessary from the Militia; in consequence of which every third Man is ordered to be drawn from the Southern and every fifth Man from the Northern Counties. We are not without Apprehensions that these heavy Drafts will be dreadfully felt in the want of the necessary Supplies for the Army and Inhabitants, which can hardly be raised under such Circumstances in this State; but more remote Evils must yield to the pressures of Necessity. We enclose you by direction of Convention some Resolutions lately passed in order to render the Laws against Spies and secret Enemies more effectual. You will be pleased to deliver them with our respectful Compliments to his Excellency the General.
We are happy to hear of the Arrival of the Vessel with Arms from France, as no supplies can be more necessary. We flatter ourselves that it will shortly be in your Power to communicate ⟨m⟩ore important Intelligence from that Quarter.
We are with great Respect Sir Your most Obedient and very humble Servants.

Wm. Allison
Robt R. Livingston
Gouvr Morris
Colo. Alexander Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the New York Committee of Correspondence, [2 April 1777]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: New York Committee of Correspondence

[Morristown, New Jersey, April 2, 1777. On April 5, 1777, Hamilton, writing to the New York Committee of Correspondence, stated: “Since my last I have had the pleasure of receiving your reply to my two favours of 29th. Ulto. & 2d. current.” Letter of April 2, 1777, not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the New York Committee of Correspondence, 5 April 1777
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: New York Committee of Correspondence

Head Quarters,Morristown [New Jersey] April 5th. 1777
Gentlemen,
Since my last I have had the pleasure of receiving your reply to my two favours of 29th. Ulto & 2d. current. I am happy enough to be able to inform you that my indisposition, which was the occasion of my brevity when I last wrote, is now removed.
The opinion I advanced respecting the Enemy’s not moving before the beginning of May seems to be Shaken, though not entirely overthrown by some present appearances. We have received information that they are embarking about three thousand men on board of transports, which are lying at the Hook, by way of Staten Island. This it is conjectured is with a view to the Delaware; and the Supposition is confirmed by the circumstance of a confederacy lately detected at Philadelphia, who among other things were endeavouring by the temptation of 50 pounds to engage persons, as pilots up that river. The extreme difficulties they must labour under for want of forage, and the infinite hazard they must run by moving with a Small body of about 5000 men, with an enemy in the rear, incapable of Sparing any Considerable body of troops to form a post behind, and be an asylum to them in case of accident. These circumstances will hardly allow me to think they will be daring enough to make the attempt at this time. But on the other hand, as they know we are in a progressive state as to numbers and other matters of importance, and as they have no prospect of early reinforcement, and are in a state of uncertainty as to any from the bustling aspect of European affairs, it is probable they may conceive a necessity of making a push at all risks. Perhaps however this embarkation is intended for some other purpose to make a diversion or execute some partizan exploit elsewhere. On the whole I find it difficult to believe they are yet ready for any Capital Operation.
As to your apprehensions of an attempt up the North River I immagine you may discard any uneasiness on that score, though it will be at all times adviseable to be on the watch against a contingency to be almost reduced to a certainty that the principal views of the enemy in the ensuing campaign will be directed towards the southward and to Philadelphia more immediately; of which idea the discovery before mentioned with respect to pilots is no contemptible confirmation. Philadelphia is an object calculated to strike and attract their attention. It has all along been the main source of supplies towards the war and the getting it into their possession would deprive us of a wheel we could very badly spare in the great political and military machine. They are sensible of this, and are equally sensible, that it contains in itself, and is surrounded by a prodigious number of persons attached to them and inimical to us, who would lend them all the assistance they could in the further prosecution of their designs. It is also a common and well grounded rule in war, to strike first and principally at the capital towns and Cities in order to the conquest of a country.
I must confess I do not see any object equally interesting to draw their efforts to the Northward. Operations merely for plundering and devastation can never answer their end; and if they could, one part of the continent would do nearly as well as another. And as to the notion of forming a junction with the northern army, and cutting off the communication between the Northern and Southern States, I apprehend it will do better in speculation than in practice. Unless the Geography of the Country is far different from any thing I can conceive, to effect this would require a chain of posts and such a number of men at each as would never be practicable or maintainable but to an immense army. In their progress, by hanging upon their rear and seizing every opportunity of Skirmishing, their Situation might be rendered insupportably uneasy.
But for fear of mistake, The General has determined to collect a considerable body of Troops at or about Peeks-Kill, which will not be drawn off ’till the intentions of the enemy have acquired a decisive complexion. These will be ready according to conjunctures, either to proceed Northerly or Southerly as may be requisite. Every precaution should be taken to prevent the boats from being destroyed, by collecting them, at the first movement of the enemy, under cover of one of the forts, or into some inlet difficult of access and easily defensible with a small number of men. The loss of them would be an irreparable disadvantage.
The Enemy’s attempt upon Peeks-Kill is a demonstration of the folly of having any quantity of Stores at places so near the water and so much exposed to a Sudden inroad. There Should never be more there than sufficient to answer present demands. We have lost a good deal in this way at different times, and I hope experience will at last make us wiser.
His Excellency lately had a Visit from the Oneida Chief and five others. He managed them with a good deal of address and sent them away perfectly satisfied. He persuaded them to go to Philadelphia; but they declined it, alleging their impatience to return, and remove the erroneous opinions of their Countrymen, from the misrepresentations of British emmissaries, which they were apprehensive might draw them into some rash proceedings. They parted after having made the most solemn protestations of friendship and good will. His Excellency has been very busy all day in dispatching the Southern Post, which has prevented me giving him your resolve. It will no doubt be very acceptable; and it is with pleasure I inform you that the zeal and abilities of the New York Convention hold the first rank in his estimation.
No news from France, save that the Congress have obtained a credit there, for which they can draw bills to the amount of £100.000.Stg. This will be extremely Serviceable in carrying on a trade with the french. The new troops begin to come in. If we can shortly get any considerable accession of Strength, we may be able to strike some brilliant Stroke.
I am Gentlemen with the greatest respect Your most obedient Servant
A. Hamilton
We have been some time endeavouring to negotiate a regular Cartel; but it has been lately broken off, principally on account of Major General Lee. General Howe will not allow him to be comprehended under the general idea of American prisoners.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Nathaniel Heard, 7 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Heard, Nathaniel

Morristown [New Jersey] April 7, 1777. Orders Heard to see that the number of officers is in proportion to the number of men. States that brigadiers must choose a field commander and must demand an exact return of troops.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from the New York Committee of Correspondence, 8 April 1777
From: New York Committee of Correspondence
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Kingston [New York] 8th April 1777.
Sir.
Yours of the third came safe⟨ly to hand⟩ this Day and gave us great Pleasure by certifying your Hea⟨lth. The scantiness of⟩ our Numbers will not permit the Loss of one useful ⟨citizen. It is⟩, therefore, a determined Point that sick or well, you are by no means ⟨to⟩ die.
At this Distance it is impossible to determine what the Enemy can or what they can not do. But certainly if we can bring a respectable Force into the Field previous to their Movements it must be extremely difficult for them to advance or retreat. The latter indeed may be assisted by the Works they are throwing up.
Their Attempt upon the Delaware is far from improbable. Howe is certainly a stupid Fellow but if he reasons so far the Taking of Philadelphia would give a splendid Sight to their Manœuvres in the Eyes of Europe. This would be productive of Advantage. The seizing that large City would also afford him much Benefit in the several Ways which you suggest. But would it not be wise to permit his Force to be thus divided, that one Part after another might be cut to Pieces?
Since the Affair at Peeks Kill, their Views this Way seem to be less probable. It was doubtless unmilitary to warn us of our Danger: They will also soon learn that we are in this Quarter in a decent Posture of Defence and that may decide their fluctuating Counsels.
Perhaps after all they will find it more convenient to keep Post at Amboy with an advanced Party at Brunswick secure New York and carry on a kind of naval Partizan War till the further Aid and Order of their Masters.
You will take Care whenever you write to us Matters which ought ⟨not to be seen by all⟩, to direct to one of us only in a separate Letter, while that which is me⟨rely indif⟩ferent, comes under your usual Direction. The Reason is that sometimes when we do not happen to be immediately in the Way your Letters are opened by the President and altho no evil Consequences have accrued from this as yet it is nevertheless proper to guard against it.
What you say relative to a Cartel reminds us of the Case of Major Edminston who was taken by Genl. Schuyler at the same Time with Sir John Johnson. This Gentleman as His Excellency will recollect was sent into the Enemy’s Quarters with a Letter to negotiate an Exchange for one of three Majors Prisoners in their Hands. He hath since returned with a Letter from Howe to Genl. Schuyler purporting that one of those Majors shall be exchanged for him he being permitted to join his Regt. in Canada. He was three Weeks or thereabouts travelling from New York to Albany of which the Convention being informed caused him to be made Prisoner and intend sending him to Head Quarters. He is well acquainted with the Face of this Country, and the Dispositions of it’s Several Inhabitants. He has sufficient Interest with the Indians to accomplish an Escape upon the whole (as it will not be prudent to confine him within this State) it is submitted whether it would not be proper to secure him elsewhere untill the Close of the present Campaign.
We are Sir your most obedient & humble Servants
Robt R Livingston
Gouvr Morris


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Smith, 9 April 1777
From: Smith, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Kingston [New York] April 9th. 1777
Sir.
The Convention on having granted a Permission to Mr. Le Roy to repair to head Quarters in order to solicit leave to go to New York; And having omitted to take his Parole, they beg the favor of you to carry the enclosed Resolution into execution.
I am Sir Your most Obedt. Servt. By Order.
Wm Smith president P.T.
Colo. Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Catharine Livingston, 11 April 1777
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Livingston, Catharine

Morris Town [New Jersey] April 11th. 1777
I take pleasure in transmitting you a letter, committed to my care, by your Sister Miss Suky, and in executing a promise, I gave her, of making an advance towards a correspondence with you. She says you discover, in all your letters to her, a relish for politics, which she thinks my situation qualifies me better for gratifying, than would be in her power; and from a desire to accommodate you in this particular, as well as to get rid of what she calls a difficult task to herself, and to give me an opportunity of enjoying the felicity which must naturally attend it, she wishes me to engage on the footing of a political correspondent.
Though I am perfectly willing to harmonize with your inclination, in this respect, without making the cynical inquiry, whether it proceed from sympathy in the concerns of the public, or merely from female curiosity, yet I will not consent to be limited to any particular subject. I challenge you to meet me in whatever path you dare; and if you have no objection, for variety and amusement, we will even sometimes make excursions in the flowery walks, and roseate bowers of Cupid. You know, I am renowned for gallantry, and shall always be able to entertain you with a choice collection of the prettiest things imaginable. I fancy my knowlege of you affords me a tolerably just idea of your taste, but lest I should be mistaken I shall take it kind, if you will give me such intimations of it, as will remove all doubt, and save me the trouble of finding it out with certainty myself. This will be the more obliging, as, without it, I should have a most arduous task on my hands, at least, if connoisseurs in the sex say true, according to whose representations, contrary to the vulgar opinion, woman is not a simple, but a most complex, intricate and enigmatical being.
After knowing exactly your taste, and whether you are of a romantic, or discreet temper, as to love affairs, I will endeavour to regulate myself by it. If you would choose to be a goddess, and to be worshipped as such, I will torture my imagination for the best arguments, the nature of the case will admit, to prove you so. You shall be one of the graces, or Diana, or Venus, or something surpassing them all. And after your deification, I will cull out of every poet of my acquaintance, the choicest delicacies, they possess, as offerings at your Goddesships’ shrine. But if, conformable to your usual discernment, you are content with being a mere mortal, and require no other incense, than is justly due to you, I will talk to you like one [in] his sober senses; and, though it may be straining the point a little, I will even stipulate to pay you all the rational tribute properly applicable to a fine girl.
But amidst my amorous transports, let me not forget, that I am also to perform the part of a politician and intelligencer. This however will not take up much time, as the present situation of things gives birth to very little worth notice, though it seems pregnant with something of importance. The enemy, from some late movements, appear to be brooding mischief, which must soon break out, but I hope it will turn to their own ruin. To speak plainly, there is reason to believe, they are upon the point of attempting some important entreprize. Philadelphia in the opinion of most people, is their object. I hope they may be disappointed.
Of this, I am pretty confident, that the ensuing campaign will effectually put to death all their hopes; and establish the success of our cause beyond a doubt. You and I, as well as our neighbours, are deeply interested to pray for victory, and its necessary attendant peace; as, among other good effects, they would remove those obstacles, which now lie in the way of that most delectable thing, called matrimony;—a state, which, with a kind of magnetic force, attracts every breast to it, in which sensibility has a place, in spite of the resistance it encounters in the dull admonitions of prudence, which is so prudish and perverse a dame, as to be at perpetual variance with it. With my best respects to Mr. & Mrs. Jay, I beg you will believe me to be,   Your assured friend & servant
Alexr. Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the New York Committee of Correspondence, 12 April 1777
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: New York Committee of Correspondence

Head Quarters Morris Town [New Jersey]April 12th 1777
Gentlemen,
I this day received your favour of the 8th instant.
Hurry of business prevents my entering into a particular detail of affairs, either with respect to the enemy, or ourselves; though matters remain much in the same situation, as when I last wrote. The enemy are unquestionably preparing to take the field as soon as possible; notwithstanding which, I believe it may be full as late, as I at first suggested, before they will be perfectly ready for a general movement. By several persons, who have come out of New York, within these few days, it is pretty well confirmed, that they have constructed a bridge to be laid upon boats, for the purpose, in all probability, of crossing the Delaware.
The new levies begin to come in from the southward, but not in such large numbers, as could be wished. It is to be hoped however, that we shall shortly be sufficiently re-inforced to give an effectual obstruction to their designs. The Congress have resolved, if the General approves, to form a camp on the West side of the Delaware, and have called upon Pensylvania to furnish 3000 militia to join the same. Every nerve must and will be strained to prevent Philadelphia falling into the enemy’s hands. It is a place of infinite importance.
It is said, there are favourable accounts, lately received from Doctor Franklin; but we have no authentic advice of the kind; nor does the report extend to any particulars.
Your sentiments of Major Edmiston’s conduct, correspond with the General’s ideas of it. He had given some directions to General Schuyler on the subject. Besides other purposes, it might serve, the design of his going to Canada, was evidently that he might be a vehicle of instructions to General Carleton. It would be the most convenient, certain and expeditious mode, they could have fallen upon to convey them. I communicated the paragraph of your letter respecting him, to His Excellency. He wishes the Major might be sent on directly to Philadelphia. I fancy he would be glad to be saved the trouble of an interview with him.
I should be obliged to you to inform the Convention, that it is my opinion The General will not permit Mr Le Roy to go into New York. It is a determined point with him to grant no such indulgence, when any matter of the kind is referred to him, unless the person applying can assign the most substantial reasons for his request and can also produce explicit credentials of his political principles and conduct being favourable to the American cause. I conclude from my being instructed to require his parole that he cannot give satisfaction on these points. If however he should obtain permission, I will execute the resolve transmitted to me. For the future, if the convention have cogent reasons for allowing any subject of the state to go into the enemy, as they are the best judges of all the circumstances concerning him, they had better send him in, without referring the matter particularly to The General.
I take the liberty to inclose a letter to the care of Mr. Jay, the delivery of which to him will be a favour conferred on   Gentlemen Your most respectful servt
A Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the New York Committee of Correspondence, 12 April 1777
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: New York Committee of Correspondence

Morris Town [New Jersey] April 12th, 1777.
Gentlemen
His Excellency requests that you will transmit the enclosed letter to General Wayne, by the first safe opportunity.
I am, gentlemen,   Yr. most humble serv.
A. HAMILTON
Honourable the Committee of Correspondence of the Convention of New-York.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Major General William Alexander, Lord Stirling, 12 April 1777
From: Alexander, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Basking Ridge [New Jersey] April 12, 1777. “… the time of Capt. James Scotts Company will expire the 14th.… I believe it will be best that I be furnished with His Excellency’s dismission of them by the day. I wrote to his Excellency … about the Appointment of Wilcocks. If he is approved of, I wish you would get both McWilliams & him in orders.…”


Title: George Washington to John Hancock, 12 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Morristown [New Jersey] April 12, 1777. Introduces Mauduit du Plessis and recommends his appointment as a captain of artillery.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the New York Committee of Correspondence, [14 April 1777]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: New York Committee of Correspondence

[Morristown, New Jersey, April 14, 1777]
Gentlemen,
I take occasion to inform you, that an ⟨attempt⟩ was yesterday made to suprize Bound Brook. It partly succeeded but not to the enemy’s wish. They got possession of Bound Brook, but our people eluded their design of surrounding and cutting off the whole party, and made good their retreat to the pass of the mountains in the rear. We lost however 3 field pieces, one iron 6 pounder, and 2 brass three pounders, about 30 men killed and taken; and ’tis supposed General Lincoln’s Aid Du Camp is among the number of the taken. Our troops had three full fires upon the enemy at a short distance, whence ’tis not improbable many of them fell; particulars not accurately ascertained. Lord Cornwallis & three or ⟨four Ma⟩jor Generals were upon the party; a division made an amusement in front, and two other divisions, came upon each of the flanks.
Besides this, we have just received a piece of disagreeable intelligence from Philadelphia. There are three or four ships in the river, with intention⟨s⟩ no doubt to interrupt our trade. A ship from france, coming into the river, was attacked by them. The Comma⟨nder⟩ of her, one Anderson, defended her gallantly for two or three hours. He beat off the enemy’s boats who attempted to board him, but as they persisted, ⟨finding⟩ her effectual defence impossible, he set fire to a ⟨train⟩ of powder placed for the purpose and blew her up. Unfortunately this brave man paid his life as the price of his heroism. The dispatches from France were saved, (the conten⟨ts⟩ as yet to us unknown) and a part of the Cargo was thrown on shore, consisting of Guns, Gunlocks, cloaths &c. This was so far lucky.
I am Gentlemen   Yr. most humble servant
A Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from the New York Committee of Correspondence, 17 April 1777
From: New York Committee of Correspondence
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Kingston [New York] April 17, 1777. “We are directed by Convention to enclose a resolution passed this day in addition to that of the 1st. of Apl. which we before did ourselves the honor to transmit to his Excellency.…” Asks Hamilton to consult with Washington on propriety of enlisting “ignorant young lads,” who had joined the enemy and now wish “to enlist in our regiments.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the New York Committee of Correspondence, 20 April 1777
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: New York Committee of Correspondence

Head Quarters Morris Town [New Jersey]April 20th. 1777
Gentlemen.
The disposition of the Convention, with respect to the disaffected among you is highly commendable, and justified by every principle of equity and policy. The necessity of exemplary punishment, throughout the States, is become evident beyond a doubt; and it were to be wished every one of the thirteen would imitate the judicious conduct of New-York. Lenity and forbearance have been tried too long to no purpose: it is high time to discard what the clearest experience has shown to be ineffectual.
But in dispensing punishments, the utmost care and caution ought to be used. The power of doing it, or even of bringing the guilty to trial should be placed in hands that know well how to use it. I believe it would be a prudent rule to meddle with none but those whose crimes are supported by very sufficient evidence, and are of a pretty deep die. The apprehending innocent persons, or those whose offences are of so slender a nature as to make it prudent to dismiss them, furnishes an occasion of triumph, and a foundation for a species of animadversion, which is very injurious to the public cause. Persons so apprehended generally return home worse than they were; and by expatiating on their sufferings first excite the pity towards themselves and afterwards the abhorrence towards their persecutors, or those with whom they converse. I believe it would also be in general a good rule, either to pardon offenders intirely or to inflict capital and severe punishments.
The advice given by a certain general to his son, when the latter had the Roman army in his power, was certainty very politic. He advised him either to destroy them utterly or to dismiss them with every mark of honour and respect. By the first method says he you disable the Romans from being your enemies, by the last you make them your friends. So with respect to the Tories I would either disable them from doing us any injury, or I would endeavour to gain their friendship by clemency. Inflicting trifling punishments only imbitters the minds of those on whom they fall, and increases their disposition to do mischief without taking away the power of doing it.
I shall communicate your additional resolve to the General; and consult him on what you mention; and shall let you know his opinion in my next. Mine however is that those who appear to be of such a character as to be susceptible of reformations should be employed; but it is a delicate point. As to News the most material is, that from intelligence received from Rhode Island it appears the enemy are abandonning it. This is a preparatory step to the intended operations of the enemy.
The other day we surprized a Lieutenants guard took 16 prisoners and killed three or four.
In a private letter from Philadelphia, I am informed that a treaty of a very particular nature is on the point of being concluded between the Court of France & the states of America. There is a prospect of opening a trade with Sweden. I hear Mr. Morris of Philadelphia has a vessel arrived from thence.
I am in haste. Gentlemen   Yr. most respectful servt
A Hamilton


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General George Clinton, 20 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Morristown [New Jersey] April 20, 1777. Discusses whether enemy plans to attack Philadelphia or move up North River. Reminds Clinton to call out militia. Approves of placing a chain across the North River.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Livingston, 21 April 1777
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Livingston, William

Morris Town [New Jersey] April 21st. 1777
Sir,
A number of disaffected persons having been taken up and brought to His Excellency, he ordered an examination into their cases to know who of them were subject to a military jurisdiction, & who came properly under the cognizance of the civil power; also to discriminate those who were innocent, or guilty of trivial offences from those whose crimes were of a more capital and heinous nature; directing that those of the former character should be dismissed; and those of the latter referred to you for further trial and punishment.
This examination (at which, I was present) has been accordingly made, and the inclosed list of names will inform you of those who have been deemed proper subjects for a legal prosecution; and who are herewith sent under guard to be disposed of as you shall direct. I have transmitted you a bundle of papers, in which you will find the information & evidence that support the charges against them; and the confessions themselves made in the course of the enquiry. Many of them have nothing against them but what is to be found in their own acknowlegements; how far these may operate in fixing their guilt you can best determine. Several of them have been taken in arms and others were beyond a doubt employed in inlisting men for the service of the enemy. You will readily concur with his Excellency in the obvious necessity of inflicting exemplary punishments, on such daring offenders, to repress that insolent spirit of open and avowed enmity to the American cause, which unhappily is too prevalent in this and some other states.
There are several papers of consequence relating to some of the Prisoners, which are in the hands of Col: Dehart, who is now down at one of the out posts. I shall procure them as soon as possible and forward them to you. Among the Prisoners is a certain John Eddy, who appears to be an offender of some magnitude. One Francis Miller is a full evidence against him, who is at present detained to give testimony against a person, that Eddy inlisted for the enemy, who was originally a deserter from the British Army, and now belongs to Col: Hands regiment. As soon as this trial is over Miller shall be dispatched to you.
Peter Hopkins of Sussex, brother of Silas Hopkins, who some time since went to New York, was examined among the others; but as the whole evidence against him rested solely upon the credit of Gustins deposition; and as Gustin had made declarations incompatible with the tenor of what he has sworn, as appears by the affidavit of three men of good repute both in political and other respects, it was thought proper to indulge him with permission to go at large, ’till his case could be further scrutinized, and new light thrown upon it in the course of the examination of others, whose circumstances bore a near affinity to his. He was desired to wait for a releasement but disobeyed this injunction and went off without getting it, which renders him somewhat suspicious, and affords a strong argument for a further inquiry. In confronting him with his accuser, I was inclined to believe, that Gustins seemingly contradicting himself was owing to his stupidity and to Hopkins’ superior cunning. This man if he is not very innocent is certainly very subtle and may be dangerous.
The examination which has been made in this instance is somewhat irregular, and out of the common order of things; but in the present unsettled state of government, the distinctions between the civil and military power, cannot be upheld with that exactness which every friend to society must wish. I flatter myself however you are convinced with me his Excellency desires to avoid nothing more than a deviation from the strict rule of propriety in this respect or the least incroachment either upon the rights of the citizen or of the Magistrate. It was necessary to make the enquiry for the sake of the discrimination beforementioned; and tenderness to the innocent to save them from long and unmerited confinement recommended the measure.
I have the honor to be with great respect,   Sir   Your most Obdt. servt.
AH


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the New York Committee of Correspondence, [21–27 April 1777]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: New York Committee of Correspondence

[Morristown, New Jersey, April 21–27, 1777]
It may not be amiss to hint that some sentences have been passed in persuance of this resolve, which have been improper. Confiscations of the real and personal estates of offenders have been in some instances ordained, and in others, whipping. It would be best where the nature of the case would justify it, to punish capitally; or where the crimes are not of sufficient enormity, to authorise this, pecuniary mulcts or imprisonments should be substituted. An execution or two, by way of emample would strike terror, and powerfully discourage the wicked practices going on; corporal punishment inflicted on an inhabitant is apt to excite compassion and breed disgust. Confiscation of property is not cognizable by martial law. These are His Excellency’s sentiments and mentioned to prevent mistakes.
A Hamilton ADC


Title: George Washington to John Hancock, 23 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Morristown [New Jersey] April 23, 1777. Requests apprehension of a spy.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the Commanding Officer of the German Battalion at Quibbletown, 25 April 1777
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Arendt, Henry Leonard Philip

Head Quarters [Morristown, New Jersey] April 25th. 1777
Sir,
His Excellency desires me to inform you, that the Congress have been pleased, to appoint Monsieur Le Baron D.’Arondhl, colonel of the regiment, to which you belong. He conceives both the honor and advantage of the regiment, to be promoted by the appointment of a Gentleman to the command of it, so respectable by birth, the honorable Station he fill’d in the service of his Prussian Majesty, and the experience he must have acquired by the long course of Two & Twenty years service. These considerations, he doubts not, will secure him a welcome reception from the Regt. and produce that respect and cheerful obedience to him, which his own character and merits, the determination of Congress in his favor, and his Excellencies particular approbation demand. It will certainly be of great advantage to the Regiment to have a person of experience and ability at its Head. Such a Man is best fitted to gain it Credit and distinction, and to raise it into importance and ev’ry Officer will find his interest in the general weight and respectability, which the corp will derive from him.
As he is a German by birth and has so many things beside to recommend him; it is evident the Congress have paid a particular attention to the good and accommodation of the Regt. in appointing him, and the Genl. expects it will be Gratefully received. He hopes a sense of duty and interest will beget a suitable disposition both in the Officers and men of the Regt., and it is therefore unnecessary to say, that the least want of respect or obedience, will meet with his severest disapp[r]obation.
I am &c.
A. H.
All promotions under the degree of Colo. will take place in the Regimental line.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Major General Benjamin Lincoln, 26 April 1777
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Head QuartersMorris Town [New Jersey] 26th. April 1777.
Sir,
It is his Excellency’s desire, that you have an immediate inspection made into the state of the mens arms and accoutrements, belonging to your division; and take effectual measures to have them put into the best order possible. Also to have your men completed to their proper complement of ammunition, strictly injoining the greatest care to avoid all wanton and unnecessary waste.
I am Sir   Your most Obedt. Servt
A Hamilton   ADC
General Lincoln


Title: George Washington to John Hancock, 26 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Morristown [New Jersey] April 26, 1777. Gives instructions concerning pay of American prisoners. Discusses conduct and influence of Tories.