Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Charles Lee, 3 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lee, Charles

Sir
Treasury DepartmentAugust 3. 1792.

I have to reply to your letter of the 5th of July.
The instruction respecting the mode of computing the additional ten ⅌ Cent on the new Duties is founded on the following reasoning.
The words of the Section which relate to that addition are “The addition of 10 ⅌ Cent made by the Second Section of the ‘Act making further provision for the debts of the United States’ to the rates of Duties on goods, wares and merchandize, imported in Ships or Vessels not of the United States, shall continue in full force and operation in relation to the articles hereinbefore enumerated and described.”
The addition here contemplated is not an addition of 10 ⅌ Cent generally, but specifically the addition, made by the second Section of the Act quoted, to the rates of duties thereby laid; for these words must of necessity be supplied, since the addition made by that Act was expressly applied to the rates mentioned in it. And this addition, thus precisely defined, is to continue in force in relation to the articles enumerated and described by the last Act—not to extend or apply to the rates prescribed by that Act.
The construction therefore which has been adopted is clearly the precise literal construction of the clause, and it may be also presumed to be agreeable to the intention of the Legislature; because a more simple, as well as a more clear mode of expression could easily have been found to convey the other meaning, if it had been designed, and there was a precedent for it in the antecedent laws. In the first impost Act, an addition of 10 ⅌ Cent in the cases in question, is made to the rates therein specified. When new rates are substituted by the Act making further provision for the payment of the debts of the United States, and it is meant to extend that addition to these rates, the mode of expression used is, “that an addition of 10 ⅌ Centum shall be made to the several rates of duties above specified and imposed &a,” making thereby a special reference to the rates which had been previously designated in the same Act. A departure from this very proper mode of expression, as relating to the then manifest intent of the Legislature, is a strong argument of a different intention in the last instance.
The presumption is that the increase of duty, in respect to foreign bottoms, resulting from the addition of 10 ⅌ Cent to the former rates was deemed by the Legislature sufficient encouragement in this particular to Vessels of the United States; and that they were not disposed to increase the encouragement, in prejudice of the Citizens of those States, which are less concerned in navigation. Considering the fact, with regard to the operation of the provision, as corresponding with that presumption, I feel no motive of public policy, to induce a constructive extension of the duty, beyond the letter of the provision. And I adhere to the general rule of avoiding to burthen the Citizen by construction.
Separate bonds are to be taken for the duties in the cases mentioned by you. The Comptroller has it in charge to make a Circular communication on this point.
The question, with regard to Credit, in certain cases, where the amount of the Duty does not exceed 50 Dollars, is before the Attorney General.
I am, with consideration,   Sir, Your Obed Servant.
A Hamilton
Charles Lee Esqr.
Collr Alexandria.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 3 August 1792
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir.
Custom-House,Providence 3rd. August 1792.

I have received your favor of the 25th of July, relative to a quantity of Brandy exported by Messrs. Clark & Nightingale, the Drawback on which, you say, cannot be allowed unless the proof required, of its having been actually landed at a foreign Port, is produced: The Excise Act, generally so called, passed in March 1791, clearly, I think, authorizes the payment of Drawbacks on all Spirits, imported since the last Day of June, in Six Months after exportation; and allows One and Two Years for the production of the proof of its being landed at a foreign Port, to cancel the exportation Bond. If there is any other Act which requires this proof before the Drawback on Spirits can be paid, you will much oblige me, Sir, by pointing it out, as I do not recollect any.
I have the Honor to be &c.
Jereh. Olney Collr.
Alexr. Hamilton Esquire
Secretary of the Treasury.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Newton, Junior, 4 August 1792
From: Newton, Thomas, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Norfolk [Virginia] August 4, 1792. Describes progress of construction of lighthouse at Cape Henry. Asks Hamilton to instruct John McComb, Jr., the contractor, “To have a pavement without the Light house as the sand drifts very much.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Short, 4 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Short, William

Sir
Treasury DepartmentAugust 4. 1792.

Since my last to you of the 25th Ultimo, I have received a letter from our Commissioners at Amsterdam, informing me of their having recently instituted another loan for the United States, of three millions, at four per Cent interest, to be dated the first of June last.
I have concluded to destine the money arising from this loan towards payment of the debt due to France, and you will accordingly apply it to that object.
With great consideration,   I have the honor to be,   Sir, Your Obedt Servant.
Alexander Hamilton
William Short Esqr.
Minister Resident ofthe United States at the Hague.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Otho H. Williams, 4 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Williams, Otho H.

Treasury Department, August 4, 1792. “I am informed that there is a vessel in Your Port for Amsterdam; which will sail about the 10th instant. I enclose You a letter for Messrs Willink & van Staphorst, which I request may be forwarded by that vessel.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 5 August 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir,
Mount Vernon, Augt. 5. 1792.

Since the date of my last dispatch to you of the 1st: instant, I have received your Letters of the 26. & 30 ulto., and have affixed my signature to the arrangement of Compensations to the Officers of Inspection in consequence of additional latitude given to the President of the United States by the Act of the last Session, intitled “An Act concerning the duties on spirits distilled within the United States.”
I have done this in full conviction that the best information the nature of the case would admit, has been obtained at the Treasury to keep the aggregate within the limitations of the Law, & to proportion the Compensations to the services of the respective Officers, presuming also that it appeared essential (from a full view of circumstances, and the benefits likely to be derived from the measure, to the public) that an increase of the Officers of Revenue was really necessary; for I should be unwilling to add to the former establishment, unless the propriety of it was apparent. Unless the Attorney General should be of opinion that The President of the United States has power under the Act of March 1791. or the subsequent one of last Session, to appoint (in the recess of the Senate) an Inspector of the Survey newly constituted in Maryland, it must remain, as is proposed, under the immediate direction of the Supervisor.

If, after these regulations are in operation, opposition to the due exercise of the collection is still experienced, & peaceable proceedure is no longer effectual, the public interest & my duty will make it necessary to enforce the Laws respecting this matter; & however disagreeable this would be to me, it must nevertheless take place.
The Collector was not at Baltimore when I passed through that place; but from the Naval Officer I learnt that the service wou’d sustain no loss by the resignation of the Master of the Maryland Revenue Cutter—that the first Mate was a more competent character, and that the general expectation was that he would be appointed to command it. That I might know how far the sentiments of others accorded with those of the Naval Officer, I requested the Supervisor (Mr. Gale) to make enquiry & to inform me of the result; but not having heard from him since, the first Mate (his name I do not recollect) may be notified by you, of my intention to commission him Master, so soon as I am provided with Commissions for that purpose—at present I have none. The same may be given to John Adams as first & Benjamin Gunnison as second Mate of the Revenue Cutter in New Hampshire: and to Ashur Cook first and John Fenley second Mate of the New York Cutter. The third Mate for the latter may remain for further enquiry & consideration.
If your information with respect to the proposed characters for the Cutter in New Hampshire is not such as you can entirely rely upon, Mr. Lear who is on the spot might afford you some aid in the investigation of them, or others.
I am Sir &c.
G: Washington
PS. As I have neither time nor inclination to copy the enclosed, I would thank you for having a transcript of it made & sent to me.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Ellery, 6 August 1792
From: Ellery, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Newport, Rhode Island] August 6, 1792. “I have recd. your Circular Letter of the 6th of February last, and three other letters of the 21. 25. & 26 of the last month.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Henry Knox, [6 August 1792]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Knox, Henry

[Treasury Department, August 6, 1792. “All advances for supplies in the quartermaster’s department will be made after the first of next month to the quartermaster by warrants in his favor from the treasury, and he will have to account immediately to the treasury for the disbursement of the moneys committed to him. It will, of course, be necessary for the quartermaster to have an attorney or deputy at this place. No provision for compensation of a deputy having been made it is of necessity that he should depute some person who is otherwise in the employ of the government.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, 6 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Sir
Treasury DepartmentAugust 6. 1792.

You were perfectly right in making the seizure, announced in your letter of the 26th Ultimo.
I do not see that any thing can be done in respect to the Drawback you mention. No payment on that account can be made until the requisite evidence is produced; and there might be circumstances which would altogether preclude the possibility of producing that evidence.
Benjamin Lincoln Esqr.
Collector Boston.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Seton, 6 August 1792
From: Seton, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

My dear sir
New York 6 Augt. 1792.

Shortly after I received your kind Letter of the 25th: I found by a Letter from your department you was gone to make a tour in Jersey therefore delayed answering it. You will observe by the annexed Return that the Collector has begun to comply with your kind orders—& it will be a very pleasant Circumstance that he continues to do so—for the Branch is certainly now getting on very fast, & I think (in confidence) their Direction rather wish to take every advantage in Draining us of our Specie—they make pretty frequent & heavy drafts, & rather I think unnecessarily so—because whenever the interchange of Notes leave a balance in their favour, a dft for Specie soon follows. I would not wish to complain just now, but if I find they persist in the draining us, I must implore the aid of your all powerfull hand to convince them we are not destitute of aid in the hour of need.
I have been My dear sir I am sorry to say a very improvident Steward with your Bank Stock. I waited till it got up to 30 ⅌ Cent, and then sold,—but behold it has since risen four or five ⅌ Cent more very unexpectedly—however I did for the best & really thought I had done well but such is the unaccountable change of the value of such property, a breath blowing them up or down, that it is impossible to judge whether we go too fast or too slow. I will thank you to send me the original receipts you had from the Bank, as it is necessary they should be cancelled.
Mr. Green & Mr. Pollock have not quite yet adjusted their business & I fear will not without a further reference to you, but this I will avert if possible.
Believe me with unalterable respect & esteem My dear sir Your obliged Obed Hue Servt
Wm Seton
Alexr. Hamilton Esqr.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Short, 6 August 1792
From: Short, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir
The Hague Aug. 6. 1792

I have had the honor of recieving your letter of May the 7th. enclosing the Presidents confirmation of the contract made for the loan at Antwerp, which has been delivered to M. de Wolf.
I informed you in my last that I expected him here in order to speak of a new loan at 4. p. cent; in consequence of his having suppressed a part of the last at 4½. p. cent. I have formerly mentioned to you my having promised to him if he would stop issuing the bonds of that loan, that he should be supplied with at least as many at 4. p. cent interest & that the commission should if necessary be augmented. He in consequence thereof found means to suppress 950. of those bonds viz. deliver only 2050. So that although the loan is nominally of three millions, it is in fact only of two millions & fifty thousand florins—the 950. bonds which were numbered, but have not been signed either by me or the banker were left with M. Morris. In the hurry of my departure I did not take a reciept for them, but have written to him to send me one that I may forward it to you, in order that it may appear that they have not been made use of.
I now have the honor of inclosing you sir, the account of the reciepts & expenditures of these 2050 obligations as furnished me by M. de Wolf. Duplicates of the rects. were regularly forwarded me, which I have put into M Morris’s hands in order that he might regulate finally with France the payments made on acct. of this loan.
My former letters explained to you how it happens that these payments were begun by remittances from Antwerp & afterwards made in cash there, to the agent employed by France for that purpose. The then situation of affairs added to the intention of the U.S. to make up the depreciation to France left no hesitation as to the choice.
I then contemplated the U.S. making a very honorable & advantageous arrangement as to these payments—honorable because they made up the depreciation on the assignats—& advantageous because this depreciation if measured by the rise of the price of commodities in France (which would have been just)—or even by the rise of the price of gold & silver (wch. for many reasons of locality—such as want of freedom in their being bought & sold on the market—acts of violence—& even decrees of the assembly, not imputable to the U.S, were higher & a less just measure)—this depreciation I say, would have been much less than the fall of exchange & of course have left a considerable profit to the U.S.
It was impossible for me at that time to have foreseen that the final settlement of this depreciation would have been thus delayed, much less that it wd. have been postponed so as not to have been settled even by the government which created the assignats (of which there seems now real risk) & of course with one which will have much less scruple in arguing that the depreciation was greater than it really was. As I fear the U.S. will suffer from this delay, I must beg you to bear in mind the causes of it as related to you in my several letters. It will be otherwise so natural for you to attribute this delay & the injury arising from it (if there should be any) to the person whom you charged with this business, that I hope you will excuse my anxiety on the subject, & my importunity in here briefly stating the stages of the delay.
On recieving your letter announcing the intention of the U.S. as to the depreciation on the assignats I informed the Minister & commissaries of the treasury of it (confining the promise made to future payments notwithstanding your letter would have embraced the former ones also) & desired them to fix on some basis for ascertaining the real depreciation of assignats. I was obliged to go to Holland before this was done. I returned to Paris on the 15th of January. At that time I had been long without hearing from government, but being convinced that the appointment of the minister to Paris could not be postponed & would be made during the then session of Congress, it seemed probable that every day might bring intelligence of the person, & indeed the person himself, even if he should have been in America. Considering therefore that this appointment would be the latest declaration of the will of the President—that the person appointed would necessarily be the one who enjoyed the greatest degree of the confidence of government, & of course most apt to fulfill their expectations & most capable of promoting their interests in every kind of business I thought it my duty, in one of this delicate kind particularly to postpone it, until it should be known to whom the interests of the U. S. in France were to be permanently confided & the more so as it was impossible that any inconvenience could arise from a short delay, the rate of exchange—the price of gold & silver & of the principal articles of consumption in France during that period being known. Let what will be the event I am persuaded sir, you cannot disapprove this disposition in a public servant.
I had not long remained in this situation before I learned from M Morris in London that the President had nominated him for that place, & although he did not arrive in Paris until the month of May, yet it would certainly have been improper in me to have taken any arrangements in any business which would have admitted of delay, before his arrival; & particularly as I had every reason to suppose that he would immediately receive his credentials & come on to Paris.
On his arrival I put him in possession without delay of whatever occurred to me relative to the interests of the U.S. at that place, & particularly pressed on him the necessity of regulating with the present government the depreciation promised them on the payments made at Antwerp. I had the honor of mentioning to you in my letter of June 28 the two causes which occasioned some delay with M Morris, at the time of my leaving Paris. Since my arrival here I have never ceased pressing & importuning him on the subject. I in-closed him also the extract of your letter of April the 2d. relative thereto. The changeable situation of ministry necessarily threw impediments in the way of business, but this was of peculiar kind & if connected only with that of making further payments, they would necessarily have removed all causes of delay. I therefore advised M Morris not to connect it with any other business as I apprehended from his letters he had done, but to reduce it to this simple proposition “We have paid you money at Antwerp on which we have promised to make compensation for depreciation—we have now more money ready for you at Amsterdam—fix the depreciation existing at the time of the payments made at Antwerp—say what it is now & we will immediately order you the payments of the cash at our disposition at Amsterdam.” I should have supposed from their present wants of money abroad their answer would not have been delayed twenty-four hours & that they would have been thus placed on the soliciting side of the question, whilst M Morris would have had the finest opportunity of using all the arguments which must occur to every body, for shewing what the real difference was between the depreciation of the assignats & the fall of exchange, wch difference constituted the gain of the U.S. I have begged him also in my letters to bear in mind the advantage of settling this depreciation with the government which created the assignats rather than one that should succeed to them & be built on their ruin. In fine I have done everything that depended on me to accelerate this business & do not doubt that M Morris has done the same. Still it is not settled—& from the present state of things in France I fear it will not be with the present government.
This leads me also to mention to you another subject which has given me much uneasiness, namely the suspension of our payments to France & consequent accumulation of monies in the hands of our bankers at Amsterdam on which the U. S. pay a dead interest. You were informed by me from Amsterdam & successively since, of the cause of this suspension viz. the hope of applying these payments towards succours to the French islands—of course having them invested in the productions of the U. S. This would have been so advantageous an operation that I could not hesitate delaying the payments a short time after finding that the minister of the marine had brought forward this proposition to the assembly & the more so as at that time the sums on hand disponible were small; not knowing then that you had determined not to draw for the whole which you had previously announced to me.
After my return to Paris in Jany there was a constant expectation of the Minister’s proposition then referred to the colonial committee, being reported & decided on. Whilst in this expectation I learned that the confidence of government as to their affairs in France was transferred to M. Morris & expecting his arrival without delay in Paris the motives mentioned above could not but have their influence in inducing me to desire the procrastination of this business also; not knowing but, & indeed supposing, that M. Morris from his knowledge in commercial concerns, might chuse some mode unknown to me, for carrying this operation into effect. Still knowing that the operation in itself was highly advantageous I determined to act in it if it became necessary previous to M Morris’s arrival. Accordingly being pressed by the Minister I stipulated you should hold 800,000 dollars at his orders for supplies to the islands—& that the rate at which the dollars should be credited should be fixed between the two countries as stated to you in my letter of April 22. Those of April 25 & May 14 will have informed you, how this business came to be again delayed & of its passage into M Morris’s hands after his arrival at Paris the 7th of that month.
Thus sir you will see by what means it came to pass that no part of a loan opened in Decr was paid to France at the period of my departure from Paris, although in the mean time the sums in hand had been augmenting & promised to be still more so, by the seizing the opportunity of opening a second loan at 4. p. cent, of which I gave you notice by a few lines written for that purpose only, on the 26th of May.
As to any delay which may have taken place since that time, I can only say that thinking it proper to concert this business with the representative of the U. S. at Paris I have not ceased since my arrival here writing & pressing I may add, importuning him to fix with the French government the rate at which they would recieve the florins at Amsterdam or some other mode of paying them the sums on hand. I preferred the former as being more expeditious & more sure in these times of uncertainty—& more advantageous also if the U. S. are to make up depreciation. I pressed him particularly to detach this subject & the settlement of the Antwerp payments from all others, & as the ministry were fluctuating to get over formalities & to apply directly to the commissaries of the Treasury who were a permanent body & to whom the minister would necessarily refer him as had always been done to me by the ministers of my time. Finding that the delay was not removed & seeing no reason to suppose it would be, with the present government, I at length wrote to M Morris, that unless he could immediately fix on some better mode of payments I should think myself obliged to direct our bankers to commence their remittances to France; fearing that I should not be able to justify myself to you for holding so long so large sums at a dead interest to the U. S., when it was expected that they had been applied towards extinguishing their debt to France. The last letter from him in answer there to was dated the 30th. of July & recd. here the 4th inst. In it he informed me that he had the day before recd the acct from the commissaries of the treasury & had written to them that morning to know whether they chose to recieve money in Amsterdam or Paris & that if there was the least difficulty he should direct Grands house to draw on our commissioners at Amsterdam & pay to the treasury. He observes some what less will be gained than by remittances, but that the state of things there is such that remittances are by no means sure. I answered this letter the instant of recieving it to inform him that I had formerly had an application from M Grand to be made use of in this business which judging improper I had referred to you, & that you had approved my not employing an useless intermediary —that my own opinion therefore was against his doing it now. I advised his treating immediately with the commissaries of the treasury who might purchase his draughts on the bankers at Amsterdam at the exchange which he might fix with them—& in doing which he might regulate also the depreciation to be allowed. I mentioned that you had formerly suggested my thus selling my bills to them for specie which I had not done, because I thought a more advantageous mode of ascertaining the real depreciation might be adopted. If he thought otherwise he might now make use of the plan suggested by you. I hope this will prevent his employing M Grand, as his treating immediately with the commissaries will not only be a more economical, but also a more unexceptionable mode in other respects.
Mr Morris adds also in this letter that the commissaries state their losses on the Antwerp payments by depreciation (as they have given credit for them in their acct at the current rate of exchange) at 1,368,939 livres & that he shall tell them that these losses & the compensation if any, will form a subject for the consideration of our government “whose order I shall ask.” This is in fact nothing more than leaving it unsettled with the present government who created the assignats & levied on them, to be settled by a future one who will be raised perhaps on their destruction & interested in depreciating them [in] the mode which I have always desired so much to avoid. It is possible however M Morris may see some advantages in it which do not occur to me & he will no doubt do whatever shall most advance the public interests.
I have been desirous to explain these several circumstances minutely to you because many of the advantages which I formerly contemplated as possible to obtain for the U.S. both in the payments made & to be made & also in a general conversion of their debt to France, may perhaps be lessened from a delay, which might be attributed in some degree to me, if I did not recall to you sir the motives wch induced me to postpone as much as possible taking definitive arrangements until the will of the U.S. should be more fully represented, & which I cannot doubt would be approved by every government & particularly ours, being at so great a distance.

I shall set out tomorrow for Amsterdam in order to sign the contract & bonds of the second 4. p cent loan. I have already informed you that 2½ millions of florins exclusive of the ½ million you announced to me as having been drawn for in your letter of April 2d. would be held to answer your draughts, & that I meant to comprehend therein the 800,000 dollars mentioned to you from Paris so that except these three millions I considered all other sums arising or on hand of the late loans, (making the proper reservations for your standing orders at Amsterdam) as to be applied towards the French debt unless directed otherwise by some of your future letters—accordingly it was my wish that the payments to France should be immediately made counting on future entries to answer your draughts in proportion as they should arrive.
I observe from your letter of May the 7th that you thought it possible I should be absent from this country. To my great astonishment I have recd. no further orders respecting this absence, than simply a notification of my being designated for that purpose—& that I should find here the instructions relative thereto. From letters which others have recieved here I fear much & cannot doubt indeed that those intended for me have miscarried.
I was inadvertently drawn off from the business at Antwerp, with which I began this letter, before completing what I intended to say to you respecting it. M. de Wolf has been here, & on my objecting to some part of his acct. which from the Cr. side wd seem to indicate that he had disposed of the first 1500 bonds, much sooner than the Dr. side would authorize from the dates of the rects of M. de Broeta. He acknowleged the justice of the observation & attempted to account for it, by my having directed him towards the end of Dec. to suspend his remittances—on which he had told the lenders that not chusing to have so large sums on hand he wished them not to make the payments until required. On the 6th of Jany I removed the suspension & directed him to make these payments to M. de Broeta. He had then to advertise the several lenders dispersed through the Netherlands to bring on that money wch. occasioned some delay. Yet as they had tendered their money they had a right to take date from that period with the usual term of grace, which de Wolf now tells me he had agreed should be a month as at Amsterdam, although he in the beginning had told me it should be less. Yet as all powers give great facilities in these cases I did not think it would be proper to be too difficult in this instance & after making him consent to the justice of these objections to the statement of his acct. I promised him I would send it to you in its present form with the observations I have made, & particularly as he had made a sacrifice in suppressing the bonds at 4½. p. cent
He had built his hopes on having a loan of 3. millions at 4. p. cent, although I had never promised more than a sum equal to that suppressed of the 4½. p. cent loan & which was as mentioned 950,000 florins. He had written to M. Morris to get him to prevail on me to extend it to three millions, although he was obliged to confess that the Antwerp market was incompetent to so large sums monthly as he had formerly promised—& even that he could not engage for more than f250,000 a month—so that the loan would have been twelve months on the market. There are so many reasons against such a step that I had no difficulty in rejecting it on its own ground, without recurring to your preference to Amsterdam, & the advice of holding out to the bankers the hopes of confining to that place future loans if they can keep the interest at 4. p. cent. Opening a loan elsewhere for 3. millions would totally defeat that idea—but one of a smaller sum at Antwerp might be represented to them, as it really is a continuation & unavoidable consequence of the former loan. Consequently notwithstanding M. Morris’s letter I determined to confine the loan at Antwerp to the sum suppressed of the former loan or if I went beyond it, to make de Wolf consider it absolutely as a favor to him & of course pay the sacrifice. When I proposed to him to suppress the bonds at 4½. p. cent in order to substitute to them others at 4. p. cent I held out as an inducement the augmentation of the commission. On his now pressing for this loan being extended beyond the bonds suppressed I told him I would consent to extend it to 1½ million, to be completed in six months at 250,000 florins a month provided he would give up the augmentation of commission, promised on the bonds suppressed—& undertake the whole at a commission of four per cent. To this he consented. I exacted of him however that there should be no kind of uncertainty in this business—that he should have written contracts with the undertakers who should be bound to furnish the sums agreed for. Otherwise he might keep as it were a kind of open shop for the bonds of the U.S.—dispose of as many as he could & keep them until they were all disposed of which though a saving for him, would be an uncertain & dishonorable mode for the U.S. Notwithstanding he made great protestation to the contrary yet I am convinced now he had it in view when he pressed for extending the loan to three millions. For although he would have had no scruple in undertaking for that sum as he proposed—yet on my explaining to him my ideas with respect to his having real & bona fide contracts with the undertakers so that the U.S. might know fully & certainly what to count on, he returned to Antwerp in order to consult with these undertakers & told me he should come here in a short time to conclude the contract. He has written to me from thence that Sweden having opened a loan at 5.p.ct interest & the Emperor also one at 4.p.cent with an high commission—& most of the undertakers being engaged therein—& others being now absent—& himself obliged on account of his health to absent himself also to go to a watering place, he had found it best to postpone the loan until the end of the next month viz this his letter being dated July when he was morally sure of effecting it. Thus that matter now stands. Should it be effected it will be obtaining money at 4.p.cent instead of 4½. which was the rate of the suppressed bonds. Should it not be then effected Antwerp may be still held out in terrerem to our bankers at Amsterdam who know nothing of what has passed with respect to the loan there.
I hope in future that my letters to you will be less prolix & tedious. Asking your pardon for the minute details which I have sometimes thought myself obliged to enter into hitherto, I have the honor to add assurance of the sentiments of attachment & respect with which I am

sir   your most obedient & most humble servant
W Short
The Honble.
Alexander Hamilton Secretary of the Treasury Philadelphia


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Collectors of the Customs, 6 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Collectors of the Customs

Sir,
Treasury Department,August 6, 1792.

It is the opinion of the Attorney General, that by force of the 8th section of the “Act for raising a further sum of money for the protection of the Frontiers, and for other purposes therein mentioned,” the regulation, requiring the immediate payment of the duties on imported articles, when the amount should not exceed fifty dollars, is repealed in all cases, except those relating to Salt, West India produce, Wines and Teas. The words “the term of credit” used in respect to Salt, he considers as referring to something preceding, and as comprising only those cases, in which credit was before allowed. It is my desire that this construction be practiced upon at the several custom houses.
A question has been made as to the method of calculating the duty ad valorem upon wines laid by the Act above referred to. I answer, that in that, and every other case of ad valorem rates, under the same act, the rule prescribed by the thirty-eighth section of the Collection Law is to be observed.
It has been signified to me, that the practice at different custom houses respecting brass in plates or sheets has been dissimilar. At some, it has been charged with a duty, at others exempted. The thing is not free from doubt; but considering the spirit of the exemption, which looks to the encouragement of internal manufactures of the article, and that the term Brass, which is singly used, literally applies to the material, in plates or sheets, as well as in pigs.—I adopt the construction which exempts from duty brass in the former as well as in the latter shape. I adopt it the rather, because there is a process in use, by which brass in its primitive state is produced in sheets or plates.

It has also been stated to me, that a difference of practice has obtained upon that part of the Act, entitled, “An Act making further provision for the collection of the duties by law imposed on Teas, and to prolong the term for the payment of the duties on Wines,” which relates to Teas; that at some ports all teas whence-soever imported, are understood to be included in the provisions of that Act; while at other ports they are considered as confined to Teas imported from China.
The first of these two constructions is unquestionably the true one. The preamble professes to establish regulations “concerning TEAS” generally. The enacting clause embraces “every importer of TEAS” as generally. It also prescribes the new regulation in addition to the provisions contained, as well in the 40th section of the Collection Law, which comprises all teas, except those imported from China, as in the 41st section of that law, which applies only to Teas from China; contemplating consequently teas not brought from China equally with those brought from China. It is to be observed that in the volumes of the laws, printed by authority by Childs and Swaine, the Sections of the Collection Law are wrongly enumerated, No. 23 being twice repeated—whence it happens that the sections referred to in the last Act as 40 and 41, are truly 41 and 42. The subject is itself a proof of the Sections really intended.
With great consideration, I am, Sir, Your obedient Servant,
A Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to ———, 7 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

Sir
Treasury DepartmentAug 7. 1792

In adjusting the accounts of the contractors for supplying the army with shoes a charge will occur for boxes in which they were packed. This charge in its principle is deemed a reasonable one. It will of course remain to judge of the reasonableness of the quantum and who are the parties intitled; in other words, whether the contractors have paid the money or are authorised to include it in their accounts.
I am with great consideration Sir Your obedt servt.
A Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Alexander J. Dallas, 9 August 1792
From: Dallas, Alexander J.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, August 9, 1792. Transmits “a copy of the Laws of Pennsylvania, passed to the last Session of the General Assembly.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Clement Biddle, 10 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Biddle, Clement

Dear Sir
Philadelphia August 10, 1792

I had concluded to offer you the Agency for providing all such supplies for the War Department as are not objects of direct contract with the Treasury. The compensation about 800 Dollars a year. But it occurred to me, that you were engaged in the business of broker; and hence an apprehension has been excited, lest a connection of the kind contemplated with this department should be misinterpreted and misrepresented by those, who are too much disposed to malign and calumniate. I have not however made any other appointment willing to apprise you of my intention before I did it—as I could not know your future plans of business. I trust you will be persuaded in every event of the friendship & esteem with which I am Dr. Sir
Your Obedient servt.
A Hamilton
Clement Biddle Esq


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, [10 August 1792]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

[Philadelphia, August 10, 1792. On October 20, 1792, McHenry wrote to Hamilton: “I have just recd your letter of the 10th Ulto.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 10 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Treasury Departmt. Augt. 10th. 1792.

I have been duly honored with your Letters of the 1st and 5th instant. A copy of the latter is enclosed according to your desire.
You may depend upon it, Sir, that nothing shall be wanting in this Department to furnish all requisite supplies for the Army with efficiency & œconomy, and to bring to exact account all persons concerned in them as far as shall consist with the powers of the Department. Hitherto monies have been furnished to the War department, as they have been called for, for procuring all those articles which had not been objects of direct Contract with the Treasury. And I learn from the Secretary of War that every thing is in great maturity.
Under the former system, provisions and clothing were the only Articles which the Treasury had the charge of procuring; the receiving, issueing, & inspecting their quality belonged to the Department of War by usage.
The Act of the last Session, entitled “An Act making alterations in the Treasury and War Departments” prescribes that all purchases and Contracts for all supplies for the use of the Department of War, be made by or under the direction of the Treasury Department.
As much progress had been made in preparations for the Campaign, prior to the passing of this Act, by the Secretary at War, I thought it best to continue the business under his immediate care for some time—’till in fact all the arrangements begun should be compleated. It is now, however, determined that on the first of September the business of procuring all supplies will be begun under the immediate direction of the Treasury, upon Estimates and Requisitions from time to time furnished and made by the Department of War.
The arrangement which is contemplated for this purpose is the following—provisions and Clothing will be provided as hereto-fore by Contracts made by the Secretary of the Treasury, pursuant to previous Advertisements. Articles in the Quarter Master’s Department will be to be procured by him or his Agents or Deputies; for which purpose advances of money will be made to him directly, to be accounted for to the Treasury by him. Ordnance stores, Indian Goods and all contingent supplies will be procured by an Agent who will be constituted for the purpose with an allowance of Eight hundred Dollars a year in lieu of Commission. Accounts for his purchases in every case in which it can conveniently be done (which will comprehend the greatest number of cases) will be settled immediately with the Treasury and the money paid directly to the individuals. In other cases, advances on Account will be made to the Agent, to be accounted for directly to the Treasury.
A leading object of this arrangement is to exempt the Officers, both of the War and Treasury Departments, from the ill-natured suspicions which are incident to the actual handling and disbursement of Public Money. None of the interior officers of either department, except the Treasurer, will have any concern with it.
The supplies of every kind will be delivered to the order of the Department of War. The issuing of them & the accounting for the issues (except as to provisions which are directly issued by the Contractors to the Troops & which are proved to the Treasury upon vouchers prescribed for the purpose) appertain to the Department of War. The Regulations, which have been adopted for the purpose, will no doubt be early reported to you by the Secretary at War; as well as those which have been concerted with the Treasury respecting the paying & accounting for the pay of the Troops.
I beg leave to assure you that in the application of the general arrangement which you have adopted respecting the execution of the Act concerning distilled Spirits, the greatest attention will be paid to œconomy as far as the precautions of the Treasury can ensure it.
I presume it to have been your intention that the opinion of the Attorney General should be taken as to the Power of the President to appoint the supplementary Officers contemplated during the recess of the Senate; which shall accordingly be done.
It affords me much satisfaction to observe that your mind has anticipated the decision to enforce the Law, in case a refractory spirit should continue to render the ordinary & more desirable means ineffectual. My most deliberate reflections have led me to conclude, that the time for acting with decision is at hand, and it is with pleasure, I can add, that an encreasing acquiescence is likely to render this course the less difficult in the cases in which an uncomplying temper may finally prevail.
I shall without delay execute your directions respecting the Officers of Cutters.
With the highest respect and the truest attachment I have the honor to be &c.
Alexander Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [11 August 1792]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia, August 11, 1792. On August 22, 1792, Washington wrote to Hamilton: “This will merely inform you that your letter of the 10th … and that of the 11th. Inst: have been duly received.” Letter of August 11 not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Otho H. Williams, 11 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Williams, Otho H.

Treasury Department, August 11, 1792. “I enclose you an Advertizement, concerning proposals for the supply of rations for the Western Posts, which I request you will have inserted in the paper of your City, stiled ‘the Maryland Journal & Baltimore Advertizer’ to continue untill the 29th of Septr next.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jonathan Dayton, 13 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Dayton, Jonathan

My Dear Sir
Philadelphia Aug 13. 1792

Some skirmishing having begun in the Gazette of the U States respecting Mr. Freneau’s receiving a salary from Government—I mentioned in conversation with a Friend all that I knew of the matter, and among other things, but without naming you, the information you had given me concerning Mr. Madison’s negotiation with Freneau. Upon this he founded a very pointed attack upon Mr Freneau & Mr. Jefferson which I dare say you have seen as also Mr. Freneau’s affidavit denying all negotiation with “Thomas Jefferson Esquire Secretary of State” &c. &c. The Gentleman has since applied to me to obtain if possible an authentication of the fact of the Negotiation.
If I recollect right you told me that this if necessary could be done. And if practicable, it is of real importance that it should be done. It will confound and put down a man who is continually machinating against the public happiness.
You will oblige me in the most particular manner by obtaining and forwarding to me without delay the particulars of all the steps taken by Mr. Madison the when & where and with liberty to use the name of the Informant. His affidavit to the facts if obtainable would be of infinite value. Care ought to be taken that nothing be affected which is not unquestionable.
Truly & Affectionately Yrs
A Hamilton
P.S. I need not observe that this is perfectly confidential & that my name is to be kept out of sight.

E Dayton Jun Esqr


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Ellery, 13 August 1792
From: Ellery, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Newport [Rhode Island] August 13, 1792. “I have received your Circular letters of the 20th of the 22nd. (inclosg. a copy of a letter to you from the Atty. General of the 21st. of June) and of the 23d. of the last month. With regard to the last, I am happy to find that I had construed the Post office Act rightly.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 13 August 1792
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence, August 13, 1792. “The Collector of Barnstable acquainted me, at the Time, with the Transaction communicated in your Letter of the 31st of July, which came to hand yesterday.… I caused enquiries to be made, relative to Samuel Bourn and his Vessel, of one Benja: Bourn, who was here with a Sloop of the same Name, from Wareham, and who said, he was informed that the said Samuel Bourn was gone with his Sloop to Georgia. This is all the knowledge I have of him or the Vessel; she never having been licenced at this Office.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Rush, [13 August 1792]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Rush, Benjamin

[Treasury Department, August 13, 1792. The dealer’s catalogue description of this letter reads: “Respecting proposed method for obtaining fresh water from salt water.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 13 August 1792
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Dr Sir,
Mount Vernon Augt. 13. 1792.

Under a blank cover, I returned signed the provisional Contract for the supply of the Lighthouse in New Hampshire.
It is pleasing to find by the Letter from our Commissioners at Amsterdam, that the credit of the United States remains upon so respectable a footing in the United Netherlands.
I am Dr. Sir, &c.
G: Washington


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tench Coxe, 14 August 1792
From: Coxe, Tench
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Dear Sir
Flemington New JerseyAugt. 14. 1792

Before I left Philada. I had notice of a cause to be tried on the 10th. instt. at this place, of the Business of wch. I had some knowlege. It has lasted till this day & the council think my staying may become very important to the just decision of the Case. It is with great pain that I remain because I doubt not the Arrangemt. of the Compensations now requires to be acted upon. I shall hasten to Philada. in five Minutes, after I am dismissed.
There has been a most respectable assemblage of persons from various parts of this State attending the Courts of nisi prius & oyer & terminer, and I have felt infinite satisfaction in manifestations from every description of them, that they equally love the general & state governments, and that they think the great objects of public happiness committed to the former have been faithfully and most beneficially managed. They are full of a firm and generous confidence in the future intentions of the general Government.
I have the Honor to be with the most respectful Attachment, dear Sir,   Your most obedt. Servt.
Tench Coxe


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Charles Lee, 14 August 1792
From: Lee, Charles
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir!
Alexandria [Virginia] 14th. August 1792

Your two letters of the 20th and 22d July last have been received, the latter accompanied with the opinion of the Attorney General upon the subject of fees under the Coasting Law; and as his opinion differs from your own, and each Collector is left to act according to Law at his peril, I have been embarrassed whether the practice of this Office, ought to be conformed to the opinion of the Attorney General or not: Were the fees to be my own property, I should not alter, but would wait until the next session of Congress, when it is expected the Coasting Law will be amended, but when I consider that one half of the Coasting fees are to be paid to the Surveyor, it seems necessary for my safety against his claims, to receive the fees, which the opinion of the Attorney General has stated to be legal.
I never entertained any doubt concerning the Obligation upon a Collector of the Customs, to act in all matters of Revenue in obedience to the directions and explanations of the Secretary of the Treasury Department, and by this rule I have endeavoured to transact the business of my Office, The Oath to execute the Office according to Law, I have never supposed to be a justification for deviating from his orders in cases which concerned the public and individuals. But the fees of Office as they concern individuals only, that is to say, the Citizen who pays and the Officer who receives are to be considered as private property, and if a dispute on this subject arises, like other matters of a private nature, it seems to me, to be properly determinable in a Court of Justice. With regard to Coasting fees, which by Law are distributable among the Collector and Naval Officer and Surveyor (and in my humble opinion very unreasonably so far as the Surveyor is concerned, in as much as he performs no service, and is not at any expense) it was incumbent on the Collector to receive all which the Law authorized, for if a suit should be brought against him by the Naval Officer or Surveyor for fees which he ought to have received and did not, I am inclined to think Judgement would be rendered against him in a Court of Justice, though it should appear that he acted agreably to the opinion of the Secretary of the Treasury. I am free to declare that this consideration weighed most with me in departing from the opinion of Jones and Harrison which was grounded as it appeared to me, upon reasons too abstruse and a construction of words too nice to be right.
I am respectfully Sir!   Your most Obedt. H’ble Servant
Charles Lee,Collector


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 14 August 1792
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir
Custom-House,Providence 14th August 1792.

The seventh Section of the Act, passed the last Session of Congress, “concerning the Duties on Spirits distilled within the United States,” allows “an abatement for leakage at the rate of Two ⅌ Cent, in every case in which the duty shall be payable by the gallon of the spirits distilled:” this abatement, it appears to me, was intended to be made, on securing the Duties at the end of the quarter, from the whole quantity distilled during the preceding Three Months: The Supervisor of Rhode-Island District differs from me in Opinion, and thinks that no abatement ought to be allowed except in cases of actual loss by leakage, to be ascertained at the expiration of the quarter. As it is necessary that the practice upon this part of the Law, of the Collectors of the Revenue in securing the Duties, and of myself on exportation of the Spirits, should be the same, so that the Drawbacks shall be equal to the Duties secured, I ask, Sir, the favor of your Opinion on the Matter.

The form of the Account annexted to the Inspector of the Revenue’s Certificate of domestic Spirits, laden under his inspection for exportation, (transmitted before the said Act passed) not contemplating the deduction of the Two ⅌ Cent, I presume a variation will be necessary, should that abatement be allowed to the Distillers?
I also wish for your directions what steps are to be taken in cases where the quantities or proof of foreign or domestic Spirits, noticed for exportation, disagree with the Certificates given to accompany each Cask?
I have the honor to be &c.
Jereh. Olney Collr.
Alexr. Hamilton Esqr.
Secy. of the Treasury.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Otho H. Williams, 14 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Williams, Otho H.

Sir
Treasury DepartmentAugust 14 1792

I duly received your Communication of the 4th instant, concerning the difference which has been discovered between the instruments, used for ascertaining the proof of distilled spirits.
The circumstance is very much to be regretted but I do not at present see that it admits of remedy as to the past. The impossibility of ascertaining what is right, is a great objection to restitution, even if I had power to direct it, which I doubt. Almost any rule that could reasonably be adopted would do more than justice in some cases; less than justice in others.
If, as may have been the case at other ports, the inaccuracy of the instrument had been in favour of the importer, it is certain that the difference would never have been demanded or paid, and there appears indeed to be no other safe rule in such cases than to leave the adjustments which have been made untouched and provide remedies for the future.
I am Sir   Your Obedt. Servant
A Hamilton
Otho H. Williams Esqr.
Collector, Baltimore.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Otho H. Williams, 14 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Williams, Otho H.

Sir
Treasury DepartmentAugust 14 1792.

I am glad to learn from the letter of Mr Delozier of the 25th of July in-closed in yours of the 27th
“That the difference between the Inspector of the Revenue and the Inspectors of the Customs had subsided, and that the latter were perfectly disposed to perform the services required of them, by the Secretary of the Treasury, whenever they may be directed by the Inspector of the Revenue.”

Instructions have been directed to be transmitted to supply what have been deemed omissions, in regard to the qualifications of those Officers, as Deputy Inspectors of the Revenue. As a regular compensation will here-after be allowed for their services in that capacity, it is presumable that they will have less objection to rendering them.
A disposition to discard a subject which has been not a little distressing to me will render what I have further to say as concise as possible.
When I spoke of the Inspectors of the Customs as Aids to the Surveyor, I had no idea of drawing into question the authority of a superior Officer over them. It does not follow, because the Surveyor, who is himself an aid to the Collector, has power to put on board vessels one or more Inspectors, and to superintend and direct them when there—that his authority in these particulars is exclusive of that of the Collector; especially as he himself is “in all cases subject to the controul of the Collector”.
The means of restraining any arbitrary or improper conduct of the Surveyor are always at hand. If the powers vested in you for the purpose should at any time fail of their due effect, nothing will be wanting on my part to give energy to the representations which you shall make. In waving at this time a more particular enquiry, I yield to a supposition that you would not wish a turn of this kind to be given to suggestions merely incidental. If I mistake your meaning, you will doubtless explain.
I trust you will believe that it is very far from my disposition to countenance or tolerate arbitrary or oppressive conduct towards any Officer, however subordinate his station, who may be connected with the Department—or to place any Officer in a situation to be the instrument of rigorous measures auxiliary to such arbitrary or oppressive conduct. There are however on all such occasions different paths to be pursued. And the desirable course must be that which will unite the execution of the public service with the protection of the Officer.
With undiminished consideration and esteem,   I remain, Sir,   Your Obedt Servant
A Hamilton
Otho H Williams Esqr.
Baltimore.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Nathaniel Pendleton, 15 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Pendleton, Nathaniel

Treasury Department, August 15, 1792. “I have had the statement relative to the petition of John Moore, Master of the sloop Uxbridge Packet, and others under consideration. It does not at present appear to my satisfaction that there was neither intention of fraud nor wilful negligence on the part of the Petitioners. Indeed the case stands ill in my mind …, and I could wish a re-examination …, for which purpose the papers will be herewith returned.… My first impression was to decide against remission of mitigation; but on further reflection I have concluded to give the parties an opportunity of explaining and putting matters in a more satisfactory light, if they can. This motive, on my part, will, I doubt not, excuse to you the additional trouble which I give you. And I persuade myself that in the further examination, you will have a strict eye to the security of the Revenue, and will endeavour to explore any equivocations or subterfuges which may be employed. The Packets are a Channel through which evasions of the Revenue may be expected early to make their way; and they therefore require vigilant observation. You will please to bear in mind that I consider the Act of the Master as that of the Parties and that his Owners and He are to be responsible for any damage, which may have accrued, from his neglect to innocent Individuals. It will be proper to cause the Attorney of the District to be notified of the time and place of the further enquiry, and the Parties must be required to notify the Attorney of the District for South Carolina of the re-examinations which will be necessary there; to whom I have accordingly written.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Otho H. Williams, 15 August 1792
From: Williams, Otho H.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Baltimore, August 15, 1792. States “There not being a vessel at this port bound for Amsterdam, I have this day forwarded your letter … ⅌ the Brigantine Batavia for Bremen” for forwarding “by the first safe convenance.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Adams, 16 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adams, John

Dear Sir
Philadelphia Augt 16 1792

I have been duly favoured with your letter of the 4th Instant. A warrant for 1000 dollars in your favour has issued. If any authorisation from you had been sent to your son or any one else, your signature on the warrant would have been unnecessary. But as it is, it will be indispensable. Perhaps however the Treasurer may pay in expectation of it.
The Question when the Vice President entered upon the duties of his office, is open at the Treasury; though an opinion has obtained that the taking of the Oath was the Criterion. This has been founded on two considerations—analogy to the case of the President. The Constitution requires that he shall take an oath, before he enters upon the execution of his Office. He cannot enter upon the duties of it, without entering upon the execution of it, and he can’t legally do the latter till he has taken the oath prescribed. The same injunction however is not laid upon the Vice President, and therefore except by analogy, resort must be had to the second consideration, namely that the taking of the Oath of Office is the legal act of aceptance, and may be supposed to date the commencment of service.
But this reasoning it must be confessed is not conclusive, and therefore the opinion of the Attorney General will be taken, both as to the President & Vice President—and I presume will guide in the Adjustment.

Twenty thousand dollars have been appropriated and the advances by anticipation may reach that limit.
You forgot that Mr Clinton could feast upon what would starve another. He will not however have an opportunity of making the experiment. And I hope the starvation policy will not long continue fashionable.
Your confirmation of the good disposition of New England is a source of satisfaction. I have a letter from a well informed friend in Virginia who says, all the persons I converse with, acknowlege that the people are prosperous & happy, and yet most of them, including even the friends of the Govt. appear to be much alarmed at a supposed system of policy, tending to subvert the Republican Govt of the Country. Were ever Men more ingenious to torment themselves with phantoms?
Adieu my dear Sir, & believe me always very respectfully & Affectionately   Yr Obed sevt
A H
The Vice President


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Nathaniel Appleton, 16 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Appleton, Nathaniel

Treasury Department, August 16, 1792. “I have directed the Treasurer to furnish you with draughts on the Office of Discount and Deposit at Boston for seventy six thousand Dollars, to be applied by you towards paying the interest which will become due the 30th of next month on the several species of Stock standing on your books. You will also receive from the Treasurer a further sum of seven Thousand Dollars in a Draught on the Office of Discount and Deposit afore-said for the purpose of enabling you to discharge the pensions which will become due, to the Invalids of the United States on the 4th of September next ensuing the date hereof.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 16 August 1792
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

My dear Hamilton.
[Baltimore] 16 Augt. 1792

I mentioned Mr. Carroll as proper to be brought forward to oppose a man whom I expect the antifederal interest will unite in supporting in case of an opportunity. I calculate that Mr. Carrol will not succeed; but it may produce more votes in this State for some man who ought. I mean also that it should operate to detach Mr. C.l. from Mr. Jeff. whose politics have in some instances infected him. In all this however you will understand should it be an eligible line of politics, that I do not mean to be an actor. The interest you feel in it more than any other consideration would induce me to take a little trouble.
I still think Mercer will carry his election. I have been with Bishop Carrol whose friendship and intimacy I enjoy. He has much greater controul over the minds of the Roman Catholics than Charles and I believe that description of men will vote for Campbell.
Col. Smith has entered for this district. Mr. Ridgley you know also stands. Ridgley I am told is a friend to a further assumption. Saml. Smith is not. He is however a good federalist. As a merchant he will dislike any increase of duties on dry goods. He is however concerned in shipping, in a sugar house and distillery, and supplies Williams & co. contractors with dry goods for the Indian trade. Besides it would give him great pleasure to get Col. Hall into office, Mr. Robt. Smith his Brother a judge, and Robert’s father in law, Wm Smith an office of £1500 a year. On the other hand Ridgley is largely in the iron works a man of great wealth, without skill in public affairs and from habits closely connected with Chase—whom he would wish to see noticed. I in-close you a letter from Mr Perry which you will be pleased to return.
The Printer of the within paper is an ignorant young man and I am led to suspect him directed by some one unfriendly to government. His first paper contained a piece as you have seen from the national gazette. Mr. Geo. Salmon is a relation of his and will endeavour to discover the influence that directs him. Mr. Robinson a young lawyer of promising talent appears the answerer of the pieces he here extracted from the National Gazette.
Jeff. I suspect will say in reply to his having been against the constitution in France that you were for monarchy in the convention; and will take some of the features of your systems which correspond the nearest with the fiscal systems of England as a commentary upon your principles. The exposition which has been given was wanted.
Good bless and preserve you. Yours affectionately
James McHenry
I desire this letter may be disposed of as the former.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Short, 16 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Short, William

Sir
Treasury Department August 16. 1792.

You will herewith receive a Triplicate of my letter to you of the 25th Ultimo and a duplicate of one of the 4th instant.
If the destination of the monies arising from the last loan, as mentioned in my former letter of the said 4th instant, has not already put it out of your power, it would be my wish that you reserve a sufficient sum for the purpose of discharging the debt due to foreign Officers. The sum due, including arrears of interest down to the 31st of December 1791, was 220,646 81/100 Dollars, to which will be to be added the further interest to the time of payment.
I shall shortly suggest to you the particular mode to be pursued in paying this debt.
With respectful consideration, I have the honor to be, Sir, Your Obedt Servt.
A Hamilton
William Short Esqr
&c. &c


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the Governor and Directors of the Society for Establishing Useful Manufactures, 16 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Governor and Directors of the Society for Establishing Useful Manufactures

Gentlemen
Philadelphia Aug 16. 1792

The bearer of this Mr. Trenet is a person whom Col Duer entered into a speculation with for the establishment of a manufacture of brass and iron Wire. He is just returned from France, from which place he has brought tools and one or two hands. And he now with Mr Duers consent offers himself to the Society.
There is no doubt that the manufacture of iron & brass Wire would be an extremely useful one, having an extensive consumption & being applicable to a great variety of purposes. The first is particularly recommended by its connection with the great Iron-branch.
Mr. Trenet will produce all his certificates & papers to shew what are his pretensions and his engagements with Mr. Duer and I presume he will also produce a statement of the Capital necessary & the various objects to be provided.
It will then remain with the Board to determine whether they will engage in this enterprise. It will require to be first satisfied that Mr. Trenet is in every respect a competent and proper character—in the second that the object is likely to be profitable and in the third that there are adequate funds. This last will depend on the success of the late payments.
In general a multiplication of the objects of the Society will be inexpedient. But there may be circumstances of sufficient force to induce in special cases a departure.
With great consideration & esteem   I have the honor to be Gentlemen   Yr. Obed serv
A Hamilton
The Governor & Directors of the Manuf Society


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the Governor and Directors of the Society for Establishing Useful Manufactures, 16 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Governor and Directors of the Society for Establishing Useful Manufactures

Gentlemen
Philadelphia Aug 16. 1792

More from the interest I take in the institution than from any supposition of the usefulness of my presence, it would have given me great pleasure to have been able to meet you on Monday next at New Ark. But very particular circumstances will I fear render it impracticable.
As Major L’Enfant may not be well known to all the Directors, I cannot omit the opportunity of saying that from much experience and observation of him, I have a high opinion of the solidity of his talents, and believe him to be in every respect intitled to the confidence of the Direction.
The interesting problem is yet to be solved—How shall the water be conveyed to the works? On this point I beg leave to say that nothing ought to be risked. Efficacy and solidity ought to outweigh considerations of expence if within any reasonable bounds. I feel persuaded beforehand that those attributes will belong to whatever plan Major L’Enfant may propose; and I doubt not it will meet with the attention it shall merit.
Inclosed is an Agreement which was entered into with Mr. Pearce previous to his leaving this City. The terms of it had been long before settled between us pursuant to the request of the Society but nothing was reduced to form till the date of the in-closed Articles. It will be perceived that enough is left in the power of the Society.
Inclosed also is a paper received from Mr. Pearce which specifies among other things the rates at which different kinds of machinery can be made. He informed me at the same time that there is a person who would contract to make the necessary number at those rates. I feel well convinced that it is the interest of the Society to contract at those rates rather than undertake themselves to have them made.
Inclosed is also an account delivered me by George Parkinson. He is a person who has been engaged to assist Mr. Marshall in the Cotton Mill as well in the construction of the Machinery as in conducting as Master of a room some important part of the business. Mr. Parkinson, if I mistake not is a very sober discreet man and an intelligent ingenious mechanic and will be found among the most useful acquisitions the Society has made. Mr. Marshall however can now speak experimentally of him.
I recollect that the terms promised him were 60 £ Sterling per annum. But no agreement has ever been reduced to form. As to the time prior to the commencement of this salary I do not distinctly recollect what terms were promised to Mr Parkinson; but when Mr. Coxe who is now absent, returns to Town it will be in my power to ascertain it.
By an account stated with Mr Pearce up to the  the Society through me were in advance for him . I believe I made him a subsequent advance but I cannot ascertain this without consulting my papers at the Office.
I mention this as a guide in future advances. And I ought to add that circumspection will probably be necessary to guard against some propensity to extravagance. Mr. Pearce ought to furnish a complete inventory of all the property of the Society which he brought with him. It is somewhat considerable.
I have the honor to be   With great consideration   Gentlemen   Your Obed servant
Alex Hamilton
The Governor & Directors of the
Society for establishing useful Manufactures


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Lincoln, 17 August 1792
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir
Boston August 17th. 1792

At the request of Mr. Foster a merchant in this town I in-close his letter to me stating his situation relative to the draw back of some duties due on a quantity of Coffe exported. His confidence that you will direct the payment on the evidence offered makes it necessary that I should lay the matter before you for your decision thereon.
I am &c
Secy of the
Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Gouverneur Morris, 17 August 1792
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Dear Sir
Paris 17. August 1792.

Mr. Short just before he left this City left with me a memoire in Dutch respecting the Mint. I was to get it translated for you, but not having been able to find a Person acquainted with the Dutch and English languages, I have now determin’d to send you the Original which you will find here enclosed. I hope it may prove useful, and answer the end you had in view. I have transmitted to Mr. Jefferson Copies of my Correspondence with the Commissioners of the Treasury here respecting our Debt. You seem to have suppos’d that the Instalments due had been paid, and this may turn out to be the case when the Account shall have been strictly examin’d, which I shall take care of. Mr. Short left (as I presume he inform’d you) this Business unfinish’d, supposing that my powers would be competent to it, which they are not; and indeed I should be glad to avoid all Interference in pecuniary Affairs if possible. Not on account of the Labor, for you may lay as much of that on me as you please, but I would avoid all Occasions of Slanderous Imputation.
Apropos of these Accounts, I recollect having seen either the original or the Copy of a note, given by the french Ministry to Doctor Franklin, of the Appropriation of the ten Millions arising from the Dutch Loan, whereof only five Millions were paid to our Bankers. This ought to be among the papers of the office of Foreign Affairs, or else among those of the Office of Finance. I rather think the latter. I do not know whether a Copy thereof may be necessary for me, but it certainly can do no harm, and may be useful. I should be glad also to have your Statement of this french Account for my Government, and also such transcript or Extract of the Accounts adjusted by Mr. Barcklay as may apply to that Object.
I formerly recommended to Mr. Short the opening of a Loan at Antwerp, and it was attended with the best Effects; for the Capitalists of Amsterdam, who had shortly before induc’d our Commissioners to beleive that money could not be obtain’d there under five per Cent, soon after let us have it at four. This I was sure would happen for I had been in Holland, had studied the Character of the Money lending people, and made myself acquainted with the manner of transacting Business. I am still of opinion that it is wise to multiply the Scenes on which to display our Credit. Those who have lent money to a Nation naturally incline to speak well of that Nation, first to justify the Confidence they have plac’d, and next to encrease the Value of the Stock they possess. It may at the first Blush seem more eligible, because more convenient, to perform all our pecuniary Operations at one place, and those who are interested in establishing that Doctrine will find many plausible Arguments in Support of their favorite Theory: just as Somebody (I beleive it was Silas Deane) endeavoured to prove that we had better buy Teas and nankins in London than in China. I remember the thing made Impression on me at the Time, as the India Company were then buying at Dunkirk some Teas which had been shipt from America. To return from the Digression I apprehend that confining this Business to one Spot may in the End have a very unfavorable Influence both on our Commerce and Exchange, because the necessity of Remittances being known, and the Periods also, Capitalists can take their measures before hand to give you the law. And if, which God forbid, Public Events should compel us to make Loans, our Creditors knowing our absolute dependence on them alone, will impose whatever Terms they please. I do not dwell on these Topics because a Word is sufficient to you.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Nourse, 17 August 1792
From: Nourse, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Treasury Department, Register’s Office, August 17, 1792. States that William Banks, a clerk in the register’s office, “has suggested the following particulars for the notice of the Secretary: 1st. That the Records of Tonage would be kept more compleat, if the collectors were directed to transmit the cancell’d Registers and Emolements Monthly instead of Quarterly. 2d. That there is a defect in the act for registering of Ships and coasting vessels, from there being no penalty annexed in default of taking out Licences for Vessels under 20 Tons.… 3d. That if the alphabet of the Articles of Commerce could be revised so as to be forwarded to the Collectors for their government in the 4th Quarter of 1792 it would be a desirable Object.” Recommends that Banks “be deemed on a footing with others who receive 700 Dollars.” Discusses Banks’s possible occupancy of “the Room over the Transfer Office.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Seton, 17 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Seton, William

My Dear Sir:
[Philadelphia] August 17th, 1792.

Your letter, mentioning certain particulars respecting the two banks, has been received, and will be duly attended to. I trust, however, that certain appearances have in no degree proceeded from any unkind disposition. The solution, I believe, is to be found in the necessity of sending here a considerable sum in specie. Large payments into the Bank of North America on account of the State of Pennsylvania, subscriptions to canals, &c., and large calls upon the Bank of the United States for the service of government, joined to liberal discounts, had produced a considerable balance in favor of the Bank of North America, which rendered it expedient to draw a sum of specie from New-York, not to leave the National Bank in any degree in the power of the Bank of North America, which once manifested a very mischievous disposition, that was afterwards repaid by acts of kindness and generosity. The tide is now changing, and must speedily reverse the balance, and I mention it in confidence, because I wish, by explaining, to cherish confidence between the two institutions at New-York, so necessary to their mutual interest.
Inclosed, my dear sir, is a letter to Mr. Donald of St. Vincents, which I beg your most particular care in forwarding. I presume he is a merchant there; but a gentleman lately mentioned to me, that he thought the name of the governor of St. Vincents was Donald. If so, he is probably the person intended. I received a letter from him, giving me some information of my father. The letter to Mr. Donald covers one to my father, who, from a series of misfortunes, was reduced to great distress. You will perceive from this, that I must be anxious for the safe conveyance of my letter. If there is any person of whom you can make previous inquiry concerning Mr. Donald, you will oblige me by doing it, as a guide in forwarding the letter. I mean to send a duplicate from this place.
Affectionately, and with sincere esteem,   Yours,
A. Hamilton.


Title: An American No. III, [18 August 1792]
From: “An American”,Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, August 18, 1792]
For the Gazette of the United States.
The charges which have been brought against “the EDITOR of the NATIONAL GAZETTE,” as he himself states them to be, are no otherwise personal charges, than as they designate the persons, against whom they are made.
In their application to Mr. Freneau, they affect him solely in his capacity of Editor of a public paper (which may justly be considered as a public capacity) and in relation to matters of public or national concern. It is therefore a meer subterfuge to call them personal charges, and then to say, that they shall not be answered, unless the author of them will come forward to support them. It was easily anticipated that he might have good reasons for not discovering himself, at least at the call of Mr. Freneau—and it was necessary for him to find a shelter. What else could he do? The charges brought against him are substantiated by facts, some of them acknowledged by himself, others proved by a reference to public documents, and to his own paper; others of general notoriety.
The inferences from these facts are the only things, which remain for discussion; and these so naturally flow from the premises, that they defy the arts of sophistry to obscure them. The expedient however which has been adopted, comes rather late; considering that Mr. Freneau began to answer even under the solemnities of an oath.
An American.


Title: [Candor], [18 August 1792]
From: “Candor”,Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, August 18, 1792]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tench Coxe, 18 August 1792
From: Coxe, Tench
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Treasury Department, Revenue Office, August 18, 1792. “… The Attorney of Wm. Allibone, Superintendent of the establishments on the River and bay of Delaware has made application for the sum of four hundred Dollars to make the first payment to Thomas Davis & Thomas Connaroe, Junr. on account of their Contract for rebuilding a pier near Mud Island.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Samuel Gerry, 18 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Gerry, Samuel

Sir,
Treasury DepartmentAugust 18th 1792

Your Letter of the 28 Ultimo was duly received. If it should appear to you that the former ad-measurements of Vessels have been materially inaccurate, read-measurements may be made. This, however, will not affect any thing past.
A Thermometer was sent to you in March 1791. Inquiry will be made by what opportunity it was transmitted. In the mean time I should be glad to be informed whether none has come to hand.
I am, Sir,   Your obedt. Servt.
Alex. Hamilton
Samuel R. Gerry Esqr


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 18 August 1792
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

  Custom House,Providence 18th August 1792.
  Sir.

Upon re-inspecting my Licence Bonds, I have this Day found that the Sloop Polly of Sandwich, Saml. Bourn Master, was Licenced at this Office on the 20th of June last, to commence, as therein expressed, the 24th of May preceding, when the old Licence, granted by the Collector at Newport, expired. The Licence Bond was filed Samuel Brown, which occasioned the oversight, on receipt of your Letter of the 31st. of July; the arrival of the Vessel also was unaccountably omitted in the Inspector’s weekly Return; and she departed without clearing out. Mr. Otis’ Letter to me was dated the 22nd. of June, and it came to hand the 29th or 30th. He does not mention when the Transaction took place, I therefore cannot say whether it was during the former, or present Licence.
I have the Honor to be &c.
Jereh. Olney Collr.
P.S. I find upon enquiry, that the said Sloop Polly, brot. and landed here a load of Pine Wood.
Alexr. Hamilton Esqr.
Secy. of the Treasury.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jeremiah Olney, 18 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Olney, Jeremiah

Sir.
Treasury DepartmentAugust 18 1792.

The Collector of Salem has communicated to me that a small quantity of goods were imported there from France by Mr. Cutts of Ports-mouth in April last, upon which the Duties were paid agreeably to the original Invoice, said to have been made out according to the depreciated state of Assignats.
A like importation is said to have been made at the same time into Providence by the same Gentleman, and it is alleged that the invoice produced there having specified the difference between Assignats and specie, the Duties were calculated on the specie amount.
I should be glad to be informed of the precise time when the said importation was made [& of the circumstances attending it.]
I am, Sir,   Your Obed Servant
A Hamilton
Jere. Olney Esqr
Providence


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 18 August 1792
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia Aug 18. 1792

I am happy to be able, at length, to send you, answers to the objections, which were communicated in your letter of the 29th of July.
They have unavoidably been drawn in haste, too much so, to do perfect justice to the subject, and have been copied just as they flowed from my heart and pen, without revision or correction. You will observe, that here and there some severity appears. I have not fortitude enough always to hear with calmness, calumnies, which necessarily include me, as a principal Agent in the measures censured, of the falsehood of which, I have the most unqualified consciousness. I trust that I shall always be able to bear, as I ought, imputations of error of Judgment; but I acknowlege that I cannot be intirely patient under charges, which impeach the integrity of my public motives or conduct. I feel, that I merit them in no degree; and expressions of indignation sometimes escape me, in spite of every effort to suppress them. I rely on your goodness for the proper allowances.
With high respect and the most affectionate attachment, I have the honor to be,   Sir   Your most Obedient   & humble servant
Alexander Hamilton
The President of The United States