Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [5 May 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[New York, May 5, 1789]
Dr. Sir

In conformity to the intimation you were pleased to honor me with on  evening last I have reflected on the etiquette proper to be observed by the President and now submit the ideas which have occurred to me on the subject.
The public good requires as a primary object that the dignity of the office should be supported. Whatever is essential to this ought to be pursued though at the risk of partial or momentary dissatisfaction. But care will be necessary to avoid extensive disgust or discontent. Men’s minds are prepared for a pretty high tone in the demeanour of the Executive; but I doubt whether for so high a tone as in the abstract might be desireable. The notions of equality are yet in my opinion too general and too strong to admit of such a distance being placed between the President and other branches of the government as might even be consistent with a due proportion. The following plan will I think steer clear of extremes and involve no very material inconveniences.
I The President to have a levee day once a week for receiving visits. An hour to be fixed at which it shall be understood that he will appear and consequently that the visitors are previously to be assembled. The President to remain half an hour, in which time he may converse cursorily on indifferent subjects with such persons as shall strike his attention, and at the end of that half hour disappear. Some regulation will be hereafter necessary to designate those who may visit. A mode of introduction through particular officers will be indispensable. No visits to be returned.
II The President to accept no invitations: and to give formal entertainments only twice or four times a year on the anniversaries of important events in the revolution. If twice, the day of the declaration of Independence, and that of the inauguration of the President, which completed the organization of the Constitution, to be preferred; if four times, the day of the treaty of alliance with france & that of the definitive treaty with Britain to be added. The members of the two houses of the legislature Principal officers of the Government Foreign ministers and other distinguished strangers only to be invited. The numbers form in my mind an objection—But there may be separate tables in separate rooms. This is practiced in some European Courts. I see no other method in which foreign Ministers can with propriety be included in any attentions of the table which the President may think fit to pay.
III The President on the levée days either by himself or some Gentleman of his household to give informal invitations to family dinners on the days of invitation. Not more than six or eight to be invited at a time & the matter to be confined essentially to members of the legislature and other official characters. The President never to remain long at table.
I think it probable that the last article will not correspond with the ideas of most of those with whom Your Excellency may converse but on pretty mature reflection I believe it will be necessary to remove the idea of too immense an inequality, which I fear would excite dissatisfaction and cabal. The thing may be so managed as neither to occasion much waste of time, nor to infringe on dignity.
It is an important point to consider what persons may have access to Your Excellency on business. The heads of departments will of course have this privilege. Foreign Ministers of some descriptions will also be intitled to it. In Europe I am informed ambassadors only have direct access to the Chief Magistrate. Something very near what prevails there would in my opinion be right. The distinction of rank between diplomatic characters requires attention and the door of access ought not to be too wide to that class of persons. I have thought that the members of the Senate should also have a right of individual access on matters relative to the public administration. In England & France Peers of the realm have this right. We have none such in this Country, but I believe that it will be satisfactory to the people to know that there is some body of men in the state who have a right of continual communication with the President. It will be considered as a safeguard against secret combinations to deceive him.
I have asked myself—will not the representatives expect the same privilege and be offended if they are not allowed to participate with the Senate? There is sufficient danger of this, to merit consideration. But there is a reason for the distinction in the constitution. The Senate are coupled with the President in certain executive functions; treaties and appointments. This makes them in a degree his constitutional counsellors and gives them a peculiar claim to the right of access. On the whole, I think the discrimination will be proper & may be hazarded.
I have chosen this method of communication, because I understood Your Excellency, that it would be most convenient to you. The unstudied and unceremonious manner of it will I hope not render it the less acceptable. And if in the execution of your commands at any time I consult frankness and simplicity more than ceremony or profession, I flatter myself you will not on that account distrust the sincerity of the assurance I now give of my cordial wishes for your personal happiness and the success of your administration. I have the honor to be with the highest respect
Your Excellency’s   Most Obedient & humble servant


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 5 May 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, May 5th. 1789
Dear Sir

I beg you to accept my unfeigned thanks for your friendly communications of this date—and that you will permit me to entreat a continuation of them as occasions may arise.

The manner chosen for doing it, is most agreeable to me. It is my wish to act right; if I err; the head & not the heart, shall, with justice, be chargeable. With sentiments of sincere esteem & regard
I am Dear Sir   Your Obedt Servt.

Go: Washington


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jonathan Lawrence, Junior, 6 May 1789
From: Lawrence, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, May 6th. 1789
Sir

I have been at a stand whether to forward to you the Enclosed, or not, for fear you might Imagine me troublesome. Necessity has at length over Come my delicate feelings, and I have concluded to transmit it to you, with an Anxious hope that you will Interest yourself in behalf of Old Servant to his Country, who has sacrificed health and fortune to Serve his Country and now finds himself reduced to Circumstances very Unpleasant, and whose only prospect now lies in the hope that his friends will procure him some Public Employ to Enable him to Support himself with some degree of Decency.
I have the Honor to Subscribe myself, Your Very Humble Servant

J Lawrence Junr


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Walter Livingston, 18 May 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Livingston, Walter

[New York] May 18. 1789
Dr Sir

The interview between us yesterday was altogether unexpected. I thought it proper to be candid. But I trust you will consider what I said as confidential. I mean to consult mutual friends; and to act agreeably to the most scrupulous delicacy. My final determination shall be communicated.
If Whatever may be the issue it shall not be my fault, if it causes any interruption of that friendly understanding which has hitherto subsisted between us.
I remain with regard   Yr obed ser

A Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Philip Schuyler, 20 May 1789
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Albany May 20th 1789
My dear Sir

Your letter by last nights post is come to hand, but not that relative to the Election in the Southern district.
If there is a majority of 300 in our favor in the Southern district, indeed if the votes there are ballanced, we have every reason to conclude that we shall be victors. We have Accounts here that at the poles in some parts of Westchester and Orange the tickets for Governor Lieut Governor & Senators were taken separately. If this viciates those poles, I believe It will be favorable to Yates as probably the Majority in Orange against him was greater than that for him in Westchester.
We are told affidavits have been sent from hence that the ballots in the East manor of Rensselaer were not sufficiently rolled up. Mr Rensselaer Informs me that Counter affidavits can be procured If necessary, but I believe the canvassers cannot pay any Attention to Either, as It appears to me that the Inspectors at the poles are to be Judges of that matter.
The president has favored me with a very polite letter which I received by the post before the last.
Your anxiety that the Harmony of the family should be compleat, affords me the most pleasing sensations and I am happy that I can assure you that your wishes have been anticipated at least as far as immediately depends on me. Philip has visited me since his return from England he is returned to his wife with a message from me that will afford her comfort & confidence in my friendly intentions towards her. I have charged him to bring her here immediately on the Arrival of his Mother & Sisters—and since the receipt of yours and Angelicas letter announcing that she is to come by land, I have written Philip and Sally to accompany their Sister home. Mrs. Schuyler before she left this was persuaded that It could answer no one valuable purpose to continue unreconciled I encouraged the sentiment And trust in a perfect reconciliation on her part.
I sincerely wish better health and believe that a relaxation from business would tend to restore It and wish you If possible to find time to come up with my Eliza I wish here as many of my Children together as possible. It is a natural wish at any time of life, and when one is in perfect health but is increased by other motives In such a valetudinarian as I am, I am not yet rid of Gouty swellings and rigidity in the Joints but I suffer most from the Gravel which is so severe as to Occasion frequent discharges of blood by urine, and constantly by Stools.
Embrace my Eliza & the Children for me. Yours ever Affectionately &tc

P Schuyler
Alexander Hamilton Esqr


Title: James Barcklay to Alexander Hamilton and Balthazar De Haert, 22 May 1789
From: Barcklay, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander,De Haert, Balthazar

Brookhaven [New York] May 22, 1789. “The Cases between Wells, and Wickham, & myself have been long enough in Court to have been determined, yet by fraudulent delays I know not how they stand.… I mean not to direct, but to desire proper care to be taken to prevent fraudulent tricks and delays, so that I may have my Money which they mean to cheat me out of.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Samuel Loudon, 22 May 1789
From: Loudon, Samuel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, the 22d May 89
Sir,

Tho’ you may have no predilection to serve one printer more than another, as all of them, may have been obliging to you—yet, give me leave to mention a few Arguments, which I shall offer to convince you that my claims are better founded than some others, now candidates for the public printing.
1. I have one of the best offices in this City—consequently, having good hands, can do Printing work, as well, and as expeditiously as any other Printer.
2. I lost much during the War, took a decided part in behalf of the Country. Did some of the Competition so—nay the reverse—lost nothing—but gained.
3. I have a large Family of Children to support—some of them none.
4. I have lost the State printing, tho’ but of little advantage, yet it was worth a little— for the sole reason, because I took sides with the Federalists. I had been told during last summer, that I would have the printing business for that very reason. I mention this circumstance to you to excite your friendship and exertion in my behalf. I was often told during the summer that for Printing Publius in my Paper I wou’d loose the S. Printing. M.S. offered to lay me £10.5. I would loose it.
The Committee of Congress have met, received the Proposals of the Printers—the cheapest, or those best liked and recommended will get the Work. Monday morning the Committee will meet again on the business, after which a report will be made to the Houses, and the Printer fixed on. I beg the favour that you may speak to some of the Members. Mr. Lawrence will befriend me I expect little assistance from any other Members. I’m unacquainted with most of them, and have not the talent of fawning.
Give me leave to mention one circumstance here which perhaps (as well as Mr. Troup) you was made to believe, that we could not have printed Publius as well as Mc.Lean. Mr. T. told me so. It is true he McL. had the profit of printing it—the preference was given to him—but be assured, we could have printed it as well, and as expediciously as he did.
I have made free to write you a few lines on the head of my Printing for the Public, and told you as the matter now stands with the Committee, and request you will befriend me a little. If I obtain the Work, it may be permanent. I need it—my Family is large and losses many. I want to live in the World an honest Man. I am,   sir Your most Obt. servt

Saml Loudon
A. Hamilton Esqr.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Hamilton, [28 May 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hamilton, Elizabeth

[May 28, 1789]

I am miserable My beloved angel that I cannot yet come to you; but this abominable business still detains us & will do it for some days. I would willingly endure the fatigue of a journey to visit you, if it were but for a minute; but such is my situation and the expectation of those for whom I act, that I cannot get away for an hour. It cannot however much longer keep me from my beloved; and the moment I can I will fly to your bosom.
Engage the house on the conditions you mention. When I come to town I will examine the title and advance the money, if I find no legal incumbrance & impediment. Tell Mr. Barkeley this. Blessing without number upon you and my little ones.
Adieu

May 28. 1789


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Smith, 31 May 1789
From: Smith, Robert
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Baltimore, May 31, 1789. Acknowledges receipt of a letter from Hamilton enclosing “a Bond from Mrs. Hammond of Baltimore to Thomas & Richard Lee of Leeds bearing date the 20th. Sepr. 1788.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Susanna, Ruth, Joseph, Nelly, and John Cockle, 12 June 1789
From: Cockle, Susanna,Cockle, Ruth,Cockle, Joseph,Cockle, Nelly,Cockle, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, June 12, 1789. Authorize Hamilton to “become security to Mr Robert Boyd for a Certain Sum of money left us as a Legacy by our late Grand Father John Cockle of Jamaica on Long Island.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Josiah Crane, 12 June 1789
From: Crane, Josiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, June 12, 1789. “… [During the American Revolution] I Lodgd. at piramus in New Jersey. Early the Next morning we were Alarmd. by a party of the British, where I narrowly Escapd. with my life, and was Deprived of all I had in the World Except a few Loan office Certificates.… I am now A Ruind. man, and if my Country Shoud. not think that I merit Some Little Relief for the Support of my famaly, God knows what will become of us.… I shall … Conclude, With Beging you do What you think is Necessary.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Morgan Lewis, 24 June 1789
From: Lewis, Morgan
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Rhinebeck [New York] 24th. June 89
Dear sir.

I am informed the Inhabitants of New York have it in Contemplation to make Mr King one of our Senators. Under this Persuasion I have thrown it out in Conversation to several of the Country Members & have found it very generally disapproved of, so much so, that I am satisfied it cannot at present be accomplished. I am afraid, too, it would interfere with the Appointment of Genl. Schuyler, in this Way. Many Persons think we are bound to support Judge Yates, in Order to convince the public, that our only Object in pushing him for the Government, was not merely the removal of Mr. Clinton. This may operate with many as a Reason for supporting the Judge against the General. How will it answer to try the old Chief for the Southern District. This I imagine will give pretty general Satisfaction. The old Gentleman will be provided for, and Judge Yates satisfied with stepping into the Chief Justice’s Chair. Give me your Sentiments upon this subject, and also upon the Mode most proper to be adopted in the Appointment of Senators.
Mrs. L Joins in comps. to Mrs. H. with   Dr sir   Your Friend & hume Servt

Morn. Lewis


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Hull, 29 June 1789
From: Hull, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Newton [Massachusetts] June 29, 1789. Requests Hamilton to accept “Mr. Charles Jackson, Son of General Michael Jackson,” as a law clerk.


Title: Eulogy on Nathanael Greene, [4 July 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[New York, July 4, 1789]

Eulogium on the late Major General Greene
There is no duty that could have been assigned to me by this Society, which I should execute with greater alacrity than the one I am now called upon to perform. All the motives capable of interesting an ingenuous and feeling mind conspire to prompt me to its execution. To commemorate the talents virtues and exploits of great and good men is at all times a pleasing task to those, who know how to esteem them. But when such men to the title of superior merit join that of having been the defenders and guardians of our country—when they have been connected with us as companions in the same dangers, sufferings, misfortunes and triumphs—when they have been allied to us in the still more endearing character of friends—we recal the ideas of their worth with sensations, that affect us yet more nearly, and feel an involuntary propensity to consider their fame as our own. We seem to appropriate to ourselves the good they have acquired, and to share in the very praise we bestow.
In entering upon a subject in which Your feelings as well as my own are so deeply concerned—however it might become me to follow examples of humility—I shall refrain from a practice perhaps not less laudable, than it is common—I cannot prevail upon myself to check the current of your sensibility by the cold formalities of an apology for the defects of the Speaker. These can neither be concealed nor extenuated by the affectation of diffidence: Nor even by the genuine concessions of conscious inability. Tis your command, and the reverence we all bear to the memory of him of whom I am to speak, that must constitute my excuse and my claim to your indulgence. Did I even possess the powers of Oratory, I should with reluctance attempt to employ them upon the present occasion. The native brilliancy of the diamond needs not the polish of art: The conspicuous features of preeminent merit need not the coloring pencil of imagination nor the florid decorations of Rhetoric.
From you who knew and loved him, I fear not the imputation of flattery or enthusiasm when I indulge an expectation that the name of Greene will at once awaken in your minds the images of whatever is noble and estimable in human nature. The fidelity of the portrait I shall draw will therefore have nothing to apprehend from your sentence. But I dare not hope that it will meet with equal justice from all others or that it will intirely escape the cavils of ignorance and the shafts of envy. For high as this great man stood in the estimation of his Country, the whole extent of his worth was little known. The situations in which he has appeared though such as would have measured the faculties and exhausted the resources of men who might justly challenge the epithet of great, were yet incompetent to the full display of those various rare and exalted endowments, with which nature only now and then decorates a favorite as if with intention to astonish mankind.
As a man the virtues of Greene are admitted; as a patriot he holds a place in the foremost rank; as a statesman he is praised; as a soldier he is admired. But in the two last characters especially in the last but one his reputation falls far below his desert. It required a longer life and still greater opportunities to have enabled him to exhibit in full day the vast, I had almost said the enormous powers of his mind. The termination of the American war not too soon for his wishes nor for the welfare of his country, but too soon for his glory, put an end to his military carreer. The sudden termination of his life cut him off from those scenes, which the progress of a new immense and unsettled empire could not fail to open to the complete exertion of that universal and pervading genius, which qualified him not less for the senate, than for the field.
In forming our estimate, nevertheless of his character, we are not left to supposition and conjecture. We are not left to vague indications or uncertain appearances which partiality might varnish or prejudice discolour. We have a succession of deeds as glorious as they are unequivocal to attest his greatness and perpetuate the honors of his name.
It is an observation as just as it is common that in those great revolutions which occasionally convulse society human nature never fails to be brought forward in its brighest as well as in its blackest colors: And it has very properly been ranked not among the least of the advantages which compensate for the evils they produce, that they serve to bring to light talents and virtues which might otherwise have languished in obscurity or only shot forth a few scattered and wandering rays. Nathaniel Greene descended from reputable parents, but not placed by birth in that elevated rank, which under a monarchy is the only sure road to those employments, that give activity and scope to abilities, must in all probability have contented himself with the humble lot of a private citizen, or at most with the contracted sphere of an elective office, in a colonial and dependent government, scarcely conscious of the resources of his own mind, had not the violated rights of his country called him to act a part on a more splendid and a more ample theatre. Happily for America he hesitated not to obey the call. The vigor of his genius corresponding with the importance of the prize to be contended for, overcame the natural moderation of his temper; and though not hurried on by enthusiasm, but animated by an enlightened sense of the value of free government, he chearfully resolved to stake his fortune his hopes his life and his honor upon an enterprise of the danger of which he knew the whole magnitude in a cause which was worthy of the toils and of the blood of heroes.
The sword having been appealed to at Lexington as the Arbiter of the controversy between Great Britain & America, Greene shortly after marched at the head of a Regiment to join the American forces at Cambrige; determined to abide the awful decision.
He was not long there before the discerning eye of the American Fabius marked him out as the object of his confidence. His abilities intitled him to a preeminent share in the Councils of his Chief. He gained it and he preserved it amidst all the chequered varieties of military vicissitude, and in defiance of all the intrigues of jealous and aspiring rivals.
As long as the measures which conducted us safely through the first most critical stages of the war shall be remembered with approbation— As long as the enterprises of Trenton and Princeton shall be regarded as the dawnings of that bright day, which afterwards broke forth with such resplendent lustre—As long as the almost magic operations of the remainder of that memorable Winter distinguished not more by these events than by the extraordinary spectacle of a powerful army straitened within narrow limits by the phantom of a military force, and never permitted to transgress those limits with impunity, in which skill supplied the plan & means and disposition was the substitute for an army—As long I say as these operations shall continue to be the objects of curiosity and wonder—So long ought the name of Greene to be revered by a Grateful Country. To attribute to him a portion of the praise which is due as well to the formation as to the execution of the plans that affected these important ends, can be no derogation from that wisdom and magnanimity which knew how to select and embrace councils worthy of being pursued. The Counsels of a Henry were never tarnished by the obligations he acknowleged to a Sully.
It would be an unpleasing task and therefore I forbear to lift the veil from off those impotent Councils, which by a formal vote had decreed an undisturbed passage to an enemy retiring from the fairest fruits of his victories to seek an asylum from impending danger, disheartened by retreat, dispirited by desertion, broken by fatigue, retiring through woods defiles and morasses in which his discipline was useless, in the face of an army superior in numbers, elated by pursuit and ardent to signalise their courage. Tis enough for the honor of Greene to say that he left nothing unessayed to avert and to frustrate so degrading a resolution. And it was happy for America that the man, whose reputation could not be wounded without wounding the cause of his Country, had the noble fortitude to rescue himself and the army he commanded from the disgrace with which they were both menaced by the characteristic imbecility of a Council of War.
Unwilling to do more than merely to glance at a scene in which the meritorious might be involved with the guilty in promiscuous censure here let me drop the Curtain and invite You to accompany me to the Heights of Monmouth. There let me recall to your indignant view the flower of the American infantry flying before an enemy that scarcely dared to pursue—vanquished without a blow—vanquished by their obedience to the command of a leader who meditated their disgrace. Let me contrast with this the conduct of your Greene—the calm intrepidity and unshaken presence of mind with which he seconded the dispositions of his General to arrest the progress of the disorder and retrieve the fortune of the day. Let me recall to your recollection that well timed and happy movement on the left of the enemy by which he so materially contributed to deciding the dubious event of the conflict and turning the hesitating scale of victory.
From the heights of Monmouth I might lead you to the plains of Springfield there to behold the Veteran Knyphaussen at the head of a veteran army baffled and almost beaten by a general without an army—aided or rather embarrassed by small fugitive bodies of volunteer militia, the mimicry of soldiership!
But it would ill become me to detain you in the contemplation of objects diminutive in comparison with those that are to succeed. Hitherto we have seen the illustrious Greene acting in a subordinate capacity the faint glimmerings of his fame absorbed and lost in the superior rays of a Washington. Happy was it for him to have been called to a more explicit station. Had this never been the case, the future historian perplexed between the panygeric of friends and the satire of enemies might have doubted in what colors to draw his true character. Accident alone saved a Greene from so equivocal a fate; a reflection which might damp the noble ardor of emulation and check the towering flight of conscious merit.
The defeat of Campden and the misfortune of Gates opened the carreer of victory and of Glory to Greene. Congress having resolved upon a successor to the former the choice was left to the Commander in Chief and fell upon the latter. In this destination, honorable in proportion as it was critical, he acquiesced with the mingled emotions of a great mind—impelled by a sense of duty—allured by the hope or fame—apprised of the danger and precariousness of the situation, yet confident of its own strength and animated by the magnitude of the object for which it was to be exerted.
Hence forth we are to view him on a more exalted eminence. He is no longer to figure in an ambiguous or secondary light—He is to shine forth the artificer of his own glory—the leader of armies and the deliverer of states!
To estimate properly the value of his services it is necessary to recur to the situation of the Southern extremity of the Union at the time he entered upon the command in that Quarter—Georgia and South Carolina subdued and overrun, the spirit of their people dejected and intimidated, the flame of resistance scarcely kept alive by the transient gleams of a few expiring embers: North Caroliana distracted by the still recent effects of internal commotion, dreading the hostility of a considerable part of its own citizens, the depending for its exertions on the tried valour and patriotism of the rest more than on the energy of a feeble and ill organised government: Virginia debilitated by the excessive efforts of its early zeal and by the dissipation of its revenues and forces in domestic projects incumbered by a numerous body of slaves bound by all the laws of injured humanity to hate their Masters—deficient in order and vigour in its administration—and relying wholly for immediate defence against threatened invasion on the resources of a Country extensive populous and fertile to be put in motion by the same ardent and magnanimous spirit which first lighted up the opposition to Great Britain and set the glorious example of resistance to America.
In such a situation what was to be hoped? What was to be hoped from a General without troops without magazines, without money? A man of less depth of penetration or force of soul than Greene would have recoiled at the prospect; but he far from desponding undertook the arduous task with firmness—with a firmness which was the result of a well informed estimate of a situation perilous but not desperate. He knew how much was to be expected from the efforts of men contending for the rights of man. He knew how much was to be performed by capacity courage and perseverance.
Not to be disconcerted by the most complicated embarrassments nor the most discouraging prospects, he began before he entered upon the duties of the field by adjusting the outlines of the plan which was to regulate his future conduct; a plan conceived with so much wisdom and so perfect a judgment of circumstances, that he never had occasion to depart from it in the progress of his subsequent operations. This alone might suffice to form the eulogium of his genius and to demonstrate that he was an accomplished master in the science of military command!
His next care was to endeavour to impress the neighbouring states with a proper sense of their situation in order to induce them with system and effect to furnish the succors of which he stood in need. To urge the collection and accelerate the arrival of these as well as to repel any invasion to which the state might be exposed, he stationed in Virginia the Baron De Steuben an officer who merited and possessed his confidence; and having made these preliminary arrangements he hastened to put himself at the head of the inconsiderable remains of the Southern army, which he joined at Charlotte on the borders of North Carolina destitute of every thing but courage and an unconquerable attachment to the cause they had espoused.
To enter into a particular detail of the operations by which the Southern states were rescued from conquest and desolation, and the last project of Britain for the subjugation of America frustrated would be to assume the Province of the historian. This neither the occasion, nor any reasonable claim to your indulgence would justify. A general sketch is all that can with propriety be attempted & shall lim⟨it⟩ my endeavours.
To supply a necessitous army by coertion and yet maintain the confidence and good will of the coerced, this was among the first and not the least of the difficulties to be surmounted. But delicate and difficult as was the task it was neverthess accomplished. Conducted with system moderation and Equity, even military exactions lost their rigor and Freemen venerated the hand that reluctantly stripped them of their property for their preservation.
Having concerted the arrangements requisite to this end, Greene, without further delay, entered upon that busy complicated and extraordinary scene, which may truly be said to form a phœnomenon in war—a sience which almost continually presents us on the one hand with victories ruinous to the Victors, on the other with retreats beneficial to the vanquished—which exhibits to our admiration a commander almost constantly obliged to relinquish the field to his adversary, yet as constantly making acquisitions upon him, beaten today tomorrow without a blow compelling the conqueror to renounce the very object for which he had conquered and in a manner to fly from the very foe he had subdued.
Too weak with his collected strength to dispute the field with an enemy superior both in numbers and discipline and urged by the necessity of giving activity to the natural force of the Country by rousing the inhabitants from the state of despondency into which they had sunk with the prospect of succour and protection: Greene divided his little army into two parts one of which he sent under Morgan into the Western extremities of North Carolina & with the other marched to Hicks Creek in
This movement had the desired effect. The appearance of aid magnified by advantages opportunely gained (though unimportant in themselves) rekindled the ardor of patriotic hope in the breasts of many, who had begun to despair, and emboldened them to resume their arms and again to repair to the standard of liberty.
Sensible of the importance of counteracting this policy of the American General, The British Commander hesitated not about the part he should act. Directing his first attention towards the detachment under Morgan and meditating a decisive blow against that corps he committed the execution of the enterprise to Lieutenant Colonel Tarleton at the head of a thousand veterans. Tarleton hitherto not less the favourite of fortune, than of his chief, hastened to perform the welcome duty—anticipating an easy triumph over foes inferior both in numbers and discipline—and dreaming not of the reverse which was destined to confound his hopes and even to sully the lustre of his former fame. In the very grasp of victory, when not to combat but to slaughter, seemed all that remained to be done, the forward intrepidity of a Washington seconded by the cool determined bravery of a Howard snatched the trophy from his too eager and too exulting hand—He was discomfited and routed. The greater part of his followers were either killed or taken, and the remaining few with himself were glad to find safety in flight. Here first the bright dawn of prosperity began to dispel that gloomy cloud which had for some time lowered over the Southern Horison!

Thunderstruck at so unexpected a disaster and ill able to spare so considerable a part of his force, Cornwallis resolved at every sacrifice to attempt the recovery of his captive troops. The trial of skilful exertion between the generals and of patient fortitude between the troops to which that attempt gave occasion was such as to render it difficult to pronounce to whom the palm of merit ought to be decreed. Abandoning whatever might impede the celerity of his motions Cornwallis began and urged the pursuit of the detachment under Morgan with a rapidity seldom equalled never surpassed. While on the other hand the provident and active Greene spared no exertion to disappoint his enterprising adversary. Anxious for the security of that detachment with their prisoners and desirous of effecting a reunion of his forces, now rendered necessary by a change of circumstances, he gave instant orders for the march of the body under his immediate command to Guilford Court House and hastened in person through the country a hundred and fifty miles to join General Morgan whom he came up with on the banks of the Catawba. Thus placed in front of the enemy he was the better able to counteract their immediate design and to direct the cooperation necessary to the intended junction. So well were his measures taken that he succeeded in both objects. The prisoners were carried off in safety and Guilford Court House the destined place of rendezvous received and reunited the two divisions of the American army.
Still however too weak to keep the field in the face of his enemy; a further retreat became inevitable. A resolution was accordingly taken to retire beyond the Dan. Here a new and not less arduous trial of skill ensued. To get between the American army and Virginia—intercept their supplies and reinforcements—and oblige them to fight on disadvantageous terms: This now became the object of Cornwallis. With this view he directed his march into the upper Country, where the Rivers were fordable with facility, flattering himself that the depth of the waters below and the want of boats would oppose insuperable obstacles to the expeditious passage of the American troops. To retard the progress of the British army was of course an indispensable policy on the part of Greene. For this purpose he practiced every expedient, which a mind full of resource could devise. And so efficacious were the expedients he adopted that surmounting all the impediments in his way he completed his retreat across the Dan without loss of men baggage or stores.
Such nevertheless was the energy of the pursuit that in crossing the three principal Rivers the Catawba the Yadken and the Dan the British troops in a manner trod upon the Heels of the American. In the passage of the last of the three, the van of the enemy’s army reached one shore almost at the very moment that the rear of ours landed on the opposite. Cornwallis upon this occasion, imitating Charles the 12th of Sweden, when the celebrated Schulenburgh made good his retreat across the Oder in spite of the utmost efforts of that vigorous and enterprising monarch, might with propriety have exclaimed—This day at least Greene has conquered me! The art of retreating is perhaps the most difficult in the art of war. To have effected a retreat in the face of so ardent a pursuit, through so great an extent of country, through a country offering every obstacle, affording scarcely any resource, with troops destitute of every thing who a great part of the way left the vestiges of their march in their own blood, to have done all this (I say) without loss of any kind may without exaggeration be denominated a master piece of military skill and exertion.
Disappointed in his first aim Cornwallis now retired from the Dan to Guilford Court House. Having driven the American army out of North Carolina, he flattered himself that his efforts would at least be productive of the advantage of an accession of force by encouraging the numerous royalists of that state to repair to his standard. Greene not without apprehensions that the hopes of his Competitor in this respect might be realized lost not a moment, after receiving a small reinforcement from Virginia, in recrossing the Dan to take post in the vicinity of the British army and interrupt their communication with the Country. Three weeks passed in a constant scene of military manoevre: Cornwallis eagrally striving to bring his antagonist to a action; and Greene adroitly endeavouring to elude it, yet without renouncing such a position as would enable him to prevent both supplies and reinforcements. On this occasion he played the part of a Turenne and he played it with complete success. The relative position which he took and maintained and the tragical fate of a body of royalists intercepted in their way to the British army distroyed every prospect of that aid which they not without reason had promised themselves from their adherents in North Carolina.
Virginia in the mean time awakened by the presence of danger exerted herself to reinforce the American army. Greene speedily finding himself in a condition to outnumber his adversary resolved to offer that battle which he had hitherto declined. He considered that in the existing circumstances a defeat must be to the enemy absolute ruin; while to him from his superiority in Cavalry united with other advantages it could be nothing more than a partial misfortune and must be compensated at a price which the enemy could not afford to pay for it.
The two armies now equally willing to try the fortune of a battle met and engaged near Guilford Court house. All that could be expected from able disposition towards ensuring success promised a favourable issue to the American arms. But superior discipline carried it against superior numbers and superior skill. Victory decreed the glory of the combat to the Britains; but Heaven confirming the hopes of Greene decreed the advantage of it to the Americans. Greene retired: Cornwallis kept the field. But Greene retired only three miles and Cornwallis in three days abandonning the place where the laurels he had gained were a slender compensation for the loss he had suffered, withdrew to Wilmington on the sea Coast. This Victory cost him a large proportion of the flower of his army; and it cost him a Webster.
Here occured the problem on the right solution of which depended the fame of Greene and the fate of the Southern states. There was every probability that the next movement of Cornwallis would be toward a junction with Arnold for the invasion of Virginia. Was the American General to keep pac[e] with his adversary in his Northern Carrier in order to resist his future enterprises? Or was he to return into the field he had lately left to endeavour to regain what had been there lost? The first as the most obvious and in a personal light the least perilous course would have been thought most eligible by an ordinary mind. But the last as the wisest though to his own reputation the most hazard appeared preferable to the comprehensive eye and enterprising spirit of a Greene.

On the one hand he concluded justly that Virginia might safely be trusted to her own strength and resources, and to the aid which if necessary she might derive from the North against all the force which the enemy were then able to employ in that quarter. On the other hand he foresaw that if South Carolina & Georgia should be abandonn[e]d to the situation in which they then were they would quickly have abandonned themselves to dispair would have lost even the spirit of opposition and might have been rendered in several respects subservient to the future progress of their Conqueror. Under these impressions he determined to return into South Carolina to attempt the recovery of that and its neighbouring state.
This was one of those strokes that denote superior Genius and constitute the sublime of war. ’Twas Scipio leaving Hannibal in Italy to overcome him at Carthage!
The success was answerable to the judicious boldness of the design. The enemy were divested of their acquisitons in South Carolina and Georgia with a rapidity which if not ascertained, would scarcely be credible. In the short space of two months all their posts in the interior of the Country were reduced. The perseverance courage enterprise and resource displayed by the American General in the course of these events commanded the admiration even of his enemies. In vain was he defeated in one mode of obtaining his object; another was instantly substituted that answered the end. In vain was he repulsed from before a besieged fortress; he immediately found other means of compelling its defenders to relinquish their stronghold. Where force failed, address and stratagem still won the prize.
Having deprived the enemy of all their posts in the interior of the Country and having wasted their forces in a variety of ways, Greene now thought himself in a condition to aim a decisive blow at the mutilatd remains of the British army and at least to oblige them to take refuge within the lines of charles Town. With this view he collected his forces into one body and marched to give battle to the enemy then stationed at the Springs of Eutaw. A general action took place. Animated obstinate and bloody was the contest. The front line of the American army, consisting of Militia, after beginning a brisk attack began to give way. At this critical and inauspicious juncture Greene with that collected intrepidity which never forsook him gave orders to the second line composed of Continentals to advance to the charge with trailed arms. This order enforced by example and executed with matchless composure and constancy could not fail of success. The British Veterans shrunk from the American Bayonet. They were routed and pursued a considerable distance. Numbers of them fell into the hands of their pursuers and the remainder were threatened with a similar fate. When arriving at a Position which with peculiar advantages invited to a fresh stand; they rallied and renewed the action. In vain did the intrepid Washington at the head of the pursuing detachment redouble the efforts of his valour to dislodge them from this new station. He was himself wounded and made a prisoner and his followers in their turn compelled to retire.
But though the enemy by an exertion of bravery, which demands our esteem, saved themselves from the total ruin which was ready to overwhelm them; they had nevertheless received too severe a blow, to attempt any longer to maintain a footing in the open country. They accordingly the day following retreated towards Charles town; leaving behind them their wounded and a considerable quantity of arms. Here ended all serious offensive operations in the South! The predatory excursions which intervened between the battle of the Eutaw and the evacuation of Charles Town & Savannah deserve not a place in the catalogue of military achievements.
But before we take leave of a scene as honorable as it was advantageous to the American arms it behoves us to stop for a moment to pay the tribute of merited applause to the memory of that Gallant officer who at the head of the Virginia line fell in this memorable conflict. More anxious to the last about his Country than himself, in the very agonies of departing life he eagerly inquired which of the contending parties prevailed and having learnt that his countrymen were victorious—He like another Epaminondas yielded up his last breath in this noble exclamation. Then do I die contented. Heroic Campbell how enviable was such a death!
The evacuation of the two capitals of South Carolina and Georgia intirely restored those states to their own governments and laws. They now hailed the Illustrious Greene as their defender and deliverer. Their gratitude was proportioned to the extent of the benefits resulting from his services nor did it shew itself in words only but was manifested by acts that did honor to their generosity. Consecrated in the affections of their citizens to the remotest posterity, the fame of Greene will ever find in them a more durable as well as a more flattering Memorial than in the proudest monuments of marble or brass.
But where alas is now this consumate General, this brave soldier, this discerning statesman, this steady patriot, this virtuous citizen, this amiable man? Why could not so many talents, so many virtues, so many bright and useful qualities shield him from a premature grave? Why was he not longer spared to a country which he so dearly loved, which he was so well able to serve, which still seems so much to stand in need of his services? Why was he only allowed to assist in laying the foundation and not permitted to aid in rearing the superstructure of American greatness? Such are the inquiries, which our friendly, yet short sighted regrets would naturally suggest. But inquiries like these are to be discarded as presumptuous. Tis not for us to scan but to submit to the dispensations of heaven. Let us content ourselves with revering the memory, imitating the virtues, and as far as we dare emulating the glory of the man, whom neither our warmest admiration nor our fondest predilection could protect from the fatal shaft. And as often as we indulge our sorrow in his loss let us ⟨not⟩ fail to mingle the reflection that he has left behind him offspring who are the heirs to the friendship which we bore to the father and who have a claim from many, if not from all of us to cares not less than parental.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Troup, [12 July 1789]
From: Troup, Robert
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Albany, July 12, 1789]
My dear friend

I arrived here on Friday night. I can do no business with the court of errors so anxious is the Legislature to adjourn. It is generally thought that the appointmen⟨t⟩ of Senators will be completed tomorrow or next day at farthest after which nothing will keep the members together except some Indian business which has just turned up. When our friends met it seems they judged it most prudent to consolidate their strength to prevent division. A general meeting took place. It was agreed unanimously to make Judge Yates the offer of a seat in the Federal Senate without any condition whatever annexed to it and a committee of two was appointed to wait upon him with the offer. The Judge received them with great cordiality & requested a night to consider of the offer. The next day he returned for answer that he felt himself infinitely obliged by the kind attention of his friends but that he declined the offer under a persuasion that it would be most prudent for him to continue in his present office. Genl. Schuyler I hear also waited upon him & begged him to accept of an appointment to the Senate & declared that if he would consent to be a candidate for the appointment that no federalist in the northern district of the State would stand in opposition to him; but the Judge it appeared had inflexibly resolved to decline a change of situation. I mention these circumstances to shew you that the Judge has been treated with every possible delicacy and that instead of being displeased he is highly gratified with the notice which has been taken of him. This with me is a great point gained. Yates is unquestionably [warm] to us. They have on the other side offered him lately some very gross insults which have not made very slight impressions upon his mind to their prejudice. Judge Yates having declined to be a candidate for the senate our friends determined to ballot for the two Senators under an engagement to support totis viribus the two who had the majority. Upon the ballot Schuyler I understand was unanimously voted for—Duane had 24 votes and King 20. The latter instantly declined all opposition to Duane—said he was ashamed of being opposed to him &c. and the matter was settled. L. Hommedieu and Genl. Morris both declared that they would not be bound by the ballot. The reason is obvious—they are both extremely anxious for their own appointment. Immediately after the ballot was finished a bill was brought into the assembly upon the old federal principles exactly. The bill passed without much opposition. Our majority is large enough in all conscience. Yesterday the bill passed the Senate with an amendment that the nomination in the first place in each house should be by ballot & that afterwards the appointment should be viva voce. This is the idea I have from several of the members. I have not seen the bill or amendment. Great efforts were made by Yates, Williams &c. to have the whole business determined by ballot instead of viva voce. The design was obvious. L. Hommedieu & Morris were ashamed to go fully with them into the balloting system but have concluded that they might safely agree to divide it. Phil. Livingston thinks it cannot injure as it now stands. I have not been able to talk with any other senator about it. If it were not for the defection of L. Hommedieu & Morris Schuyler and Duane would be appointed without difficulty. At present it is by no means certain that Duane will succeed. It is thought the opposition is to Duane only & not to Schuyler. Our friends in the Assembly remain & are likely to remain an unbroken phalax. Randall has joined the Antifederalists with a sort of puritannical rage for liberty &c. He is an object of pity. He made a thundering, incoherent, and disgusting speech to all parties respecting the principles of the bill for the appointment of Senators urging the joint ballot system. It had no effect. He has been often found crying since & is really thought to be disordered in his mind. He is treated under this idea with great delicacy by every body but has not the weight of a feather with anybody. All our other members behave as near to be wished—our King is as much followed & attended to by all parties as ever a new light preacher was by his congregation. He has acquired & will maintain an entire ascendency in the house. He is happy in his manner—his language his reasoning & his choice of subjects to speak upon. Nothing but delicacy to Duane as an old inhabitant has prevented King from being unanimously supported by all the members of the Southern district except L Hommedieu & Morris. Duane has engaged to resign his Mayoralty if he becomes a Senator. The Chancellor declined being a candidate. The Council of appointment


Title: Promissory Note from William Duer, [29 July 1789]
From: Duer, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, July 29, 1789]

Forty days after Date I promise to pay to Alexander Hamilton on order for Value received the Sum of Two thousand Specie Dollars.

Wm. Duer.

New York July 29th 1789


Title: Receipt from John Murray, 15 August 1789
From: Murray, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, August 15, 1789. On this date Hamilton wrote and Murray signed a receipt which reads as follows: “the above account is in consequence of directions given me by Mr. Hamilton from motives of Charity to provide for the burial of Abbe Mott & the amount is now paid to me by him Aug 15. 1789.”


Title: Alexander Hamilton’s Nomination by George Washington for the Office of Secretary of the Treasury of the United States, 11 September 1789
From: Washington, George
To: Senate

New York, September 11, 1789. On this date Washington submitted to the Senate the following nominations for the Treasury Department:
“Alexander Hamilton (of New York) Secretary.
Nicholas Eveleigh (of So. Carolina) Comptroller.
Samuel Meredith (of Pensylvania) Treasurer.
Oliver Wolcott Junr: (of Connecticut) Auditor.
Joseph Nourse (in Office) Register.”


Title: Conversation with Comte de Moustier, [13 September 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander,Moustier, Comte de
To:

[New York, September 13, 1789]

   Projet de M. hamilton, pour liquider les arrérages de la dette tant domestique qu’Etrangére des Etats Unis. Observations de M. de Moustier à ce sujet.

Le 13. de ce mois, M. Hamilton à qui j’avois été faire la veille mon compliment sur sa nomination à la place de Secretaire du Departement des Finances, vint chés moi et m’entretint du projet qu’il avoit de proposer que le Congrès fit un emprunt en hollande pour liquider tous les arrerages de la dette tant domestique qu’etrangere. Il a paru se flatter que cette affaire reussiroit et il entrevoit deja que le revenu des douanes joint à celui de quelques autres branches qu’on pourra creér suffira pour subvenir aux fraix du Gouvernement et à l’acquittement des engagemens publics annuels. Ainsi selon lui qui affirme que le Congrès ne doit plus chercher à eluder ni reculer le payement des dettes publiques, le Roi seroit remboursé purement et simplement aux termes du Contrat au moyen des sommes empruntées en hollande et qui pourroient être versées au tresor Royal. Il est à desirer que les belles esperances de M. Hamilton se realisent. Cependant quelque celerité qu’il apporte à cette operation elle ne peut pas se consommer en moins d’une année. Ce ne sera qu’à la rentrée du Congrès après l’ajournement qui aura lieu à la fin du mois que la premiere ouverture legale pourra s’en faire. Tout ce qu’il paroit que le Congrès fera avant de s’ajourner sera de prescrire au Secretaire des Finances de preparer un raport sur l’etat de la dette publique et sur les moyens d’y pourvoir. Cette resolution sera accompagnée d’une declaration pour faire connoitre l’intention du Congrès de remplir fidelement les engagemens publics. Ce n’est pas de belles paroles que les créanciers des Etats unis ont manqué jusqu’à present. La question est de savoir quels sont les moyens plutôt que les dispositions du Congrès. Si de nouveaux preteurs sont persuadés par les beaux tableaux qu’on leur presentera des ressources actuelles et futures des Etats unis, ce sera très heureux pour les anciens creanciers. Au reste je ne doute pas que M. hamilton ne desire sincerement d’acquitter les Etats unis envers Sa Majesté. Il est né Anglois et je ne le crois pas très bien disposé envers la France; il ne demanderoit pas mieux que d’en degager entierement cette Republique et de la mettre plus intimement en relation avec les Etats généraux des Pays bas, Alliés actuels de l’Angleterre.
M. hamilton m’a demandé dans notre conversation sur la creance du Roi s’il n’y avoit pas eu en france une proposition de faite par une compagnie pour acquerir la creance du Roi sur les Etats unis. Je lui ai repondu que je l’avois oüi dire comme un bruit que rien n’autorisoit et que j’en avois egalement entendu parler ici, mais que

   Réponse de M. de Moustier à M. hamilton relative à la créance du Roi sur les Etats Unis.

 je n’avois rien dans mes instructions qui eut aucun rapport à ce projet; que tout se bornoit à me prescrire de rapeller la creance du Roi qui ne doute pas que les Etats unis ne remplissent leurs engagemens envers S.M.; que j’avois cependant pris sur moi, vû la situation particuliere où j’avois trouvé les Etats unis de ne faire aucune demarche à ce sujet et que je m’etois borné à examiner par quel moyen on pourroit faciliter l’acquittement de cette dette. M. hamilton n’a pas fait grande attention à cette idée et il s’est renfermé dans celle qu’il a de payer aux termes du Contrât. Je crois qu’il ne seroit pas faché que le projet de trafiquer de la creance du Roi eut lieu; à en juger par ses rapports avec des speculateurs et agioteurs hardis et bien reconnus. Mais j’ai toujours pensé et j’ai eu l’honneur de Vous observer, Monseigneur, que nous n’avons pas lieu d’être inquiets du remboursement des Sommes que S.M. a avancées aux Etats unis; qu’ils ont plus que les moyens suffisans pour faire honneur à leurs engagemens; qu’en attendant nous pouvons considerer comme un avantage politique le retard qu’éprouve ce remboursement parceque la creance de S.M.

   Motifs qui doivent faire considerer, comme un avantage politique, le retard qu’éprouve le remboursement de la créance de Sa Mté.

est dans l’inactivité actuelle de notre commerce l’unique chainon qui nous lie aux Etats unis; que la dignité du Roi et les egards dûs à Ses Alliés excluent tout arrangement avec une Compagnie de Capitalistes, qui voudroit se charger de cette creance; que les besoins de notre marine et l’avantage de multiplier nos liaisons avec les Etats unis semblent exiger la conclusion d’un arrangement par lequel des munitions navales, des matures et des vivres pour nos Escadres seroient achetés en Amerique avec des Lettres de change tirées sur le Congrès pour le montant des interêts echus annuellemt. J’ai developpé ce plan dans le Memoire No. 3. qui accompagne ma Depêche du 25 Dec. der. Je ne puis que m’y referer, car je crois que M. hamilton n’a pas lui même pour ses mesures la confiance qu’il s’efforce d’inspirer aux autres.

   la speculation dans le remboursement de la dette publique des Etats Unis, a été le principal objet du voyage du Sr. Brissot de Warville en Amerique.

Quant à la Compagnie qui doit se former en France pour rembourser la dette publique des Etats unis, je sais que plusieurs Capitalistes ont deja fait les fonds d’un million de piastres; je sais même que cette spéculation a été le principal objet du voyage du Sr. Brissot de Warville, que Vous m’avés fait l’honneur de me recommander. Il s’étoit lié très etroitement avec le premier Commis des Finances, le plus grand agioteur de ce pays ci. Les constituans du Sr. Brissot ne peuvent avoir en vue que de speculer dans les effets publics, ce qui les mineroit infailliblement, ou d’acheter des terres dans l’interieur, dont ils ne pourroient tirer parti qu’en y envoyant des emigrans. Il paroit, Monseigneur, que dans un moment, où le gout des innovations s’est repandu d’un bout du Royaume à l’autre et où la classe inferieure des cultivateurs pourroit être plus facilement excitée à emigrer il ne seroit gueres convenable de favoriser des speculations de ce genre et de leur donner une plus grande etendue en y employant un fonds aussi considerable que la creance de Sa Mté.


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

[New York, September 13, 1789. On September 19, 1789, Delany wrote to Hamilton: “I acknowledge the recpt of Yours … of the 13th Inst, one by the Post covering a Letter to the Comptrolle[r].” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Samuel Meredith, 13 September 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Meredith, Samuel

Treasury OfficeNew York September 13th. 1789.
Sir

Permit me to congratulate you on your appointment as Treasurer of the United States, and to assure you of the pleasure I feel in anticipating your co-operation with me in a station, in which a character like yours is so truly valuable.
I need not observe to you how important it is, that you should be on the ground as speedily as possible. The call for your presence you will be sensible, is urgent.
Mr. Duer, my assistant goes to Philadelphia to procure a Loan from the Bank there. He will communicate with you; and I am persuaded will meet with your concurrence in whatever may facilitate the object of his mission.
With sincere esteem,   I am, Sir   Your Obedt. servt.

Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury.
Saml. Meredith Esqr.Treasurer of the U: States.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Willing, 13 September 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Willing, Thomas

Treasury DepartmentNew York September 13th. 1789.
Sir,

You will probably have learned ere this reaches you, my appointment to the Office of Secretary of the Treasury. To the acceptance of this arduous trust, I have been not a little encouraged by the hope that my inviolable attachment to the principles which form the basis of public credit is so well and so generally understood as to insure me the confidence of those who have it most in their power to afford me support. This persuasion, and a knowledge of the disposition which has upon all occasions marked the conduct of your institution towards the Union have led me to flatter myself that I may confidently calculate upon the aid of the Bank of North America as one of the principal means by which I may be enabled to fulfil the public expectations.
With this impression I freely have recourse to you for your assistance in a present exigency. A sum of Eighty thousand Dollars is immediately wanted. The Bank of New York have lately advanced Twenty thousand for another purpose; and have agreed to advance a further sum of Thirty thousand. There remains Fifty to be provided, the Loan of which I trust will not be inconvenient to you.
As the time presses and delay might ensue in adjusting the terms of the requested Loan by letter, I have Mr. Duer my Assistant who will have the honor of delivering you this to make a journey to Philadelphia in order that details may be expeditiously settled. To him I beg leave to refer you, and need only add, that whatever arrangements he may concert with your Bank shall be strictly observed on my part.
Permit me to add Sir, that in the conduct of the business of my Department it will always give me pleasure to promote the interest of the Institution over which you preside.
With perfect esteem,   I have the honor to be,   Sir,   Your obt. & hble servant,

Alexr. HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury
Thomas Willing Esqr.President of the Bank of North America


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Collectors of the Customs, 14 September 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander,Treasury Department
To:

Treasury OfficeNew York Septemr. 14th 1789.
Sir

The exigencies of Government require that I should without delay be informed of the amount of the Duties which have accrued in the several States, and of the Monies which have been already received in payment of them, and the periods at which the remainder will fall due. In this absolute precision is not expected, but a General Statement accurate enough in the main to be relied on. I request your answer as speedily as possible and am, Sir,   Your Obedt. servant

A Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Walker, 15 September 1789
From: Walker, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York Sept. 15th. 1789
Dear sir

I have not had much time to consider the Subject on which I promised to give you my opinion nor to make the necessary previous enquiries. I will however give you my thoughts as they occur at the moment.
The public Accounts under the old System were divided into several branches say

1st.  The Army Accounts.—comprehending only the Pay & Commutations of the Line of the Army.
2d— the Accounts of the Quarter Master & Commissy Departments

3  the Accounts of the Marine Hospital & Cloathing Departmts
4.  the Accounts between the Several States and the United states
5  the Accounts of the Secret and Commercial Committees of Congress
6.  All other Accounts between the U S and individuals
7  the Current Accounts of the Union

For the Adjustment of the three first a Commissioner was appointed by Congress at the Head of each Department
For the 4th. a Board of three Commisrs. was appointed.
The Secret & Commercial Committees Accounts were properly under the direction of the Board of Treasury but being of a particular nature purely Commercial they appointed a special Commr to whom they last winter entrusted the adjustment of them under their direction.
The 6th & 7th Classes of Accounts were kept under the immediate direction of the Board of Treasury and their Accomptant.
Such has been the train in which the Accounts of the Union have been adjusted. How far the old Accounts are closed & what remains to be done is the subject in question. If I am rightly informed the principal business of the Office of Army Accounts has long since been nearly finished and the Commissioner & a great number of clerks have been long employed in examining the propriety & justness of the charges exhibited by the States for Depreciation paid to their respective quotas of the late Army. To do this I am told they are making a Register of the names of every Individual Soldier and tracing his history thro the Muster Rolls. This must be a laborious piece of business and I am afraid will not answer the end proposed, for tho it may prove that the States have paid many Soldiers what their Services did not entitle them to, yet as they will doubtless shew that they took the best means in their power to ascertain the truth & perhaps proceeded on rules laid down by Congress—they will still hold the Union chargeable, tho they should in some instances have been deceived. If this Office therefore has nothing else to do it may be well worth enquiry how far this business is essential.
The Business of Adjusting the Accots of the Marine Hospital and Clothing was committed to me and very little is left to be done in those Departments.

The Quarter Master & Commissary Departments were under Mr. Burralls care. These Departments were very extensive and I am told much business remains to be done in them.
The Accounts between the States and the United States are already Committed to a Board of Commissioners.
The Accounts of the Secret & Commercial Commees were as I before observed under the immediate direction of the Board of Treasury—it is these Accounts which are commonly denominated Mr. Morriss Accounts. They have lain in an unsetled State nothing of any consequence having been done to them, tho’ they passed thro several hands. Last Winter the Board of Treasury made a special Agreement with me to undertake the Adjustment of them in an Office at my own Charge and to attend to them myself at those hours not usually devoted to the public in my Office of Commissr for Marine Accounts &c. I accordingly entered on the Adjustment of them & made some progress, but from various causes very few of the Accounts have been finally settled. These Accounts are of importance to the public very considerable sums being accounted for and in some instances probably large ballances due to the public. They have little or no connection with the other public Accounts and require some Commercial knowledge in the persons who have to adjust them.
There can be no doubt that it will be thought prudent to keep the old Accounts perfectly seperate from the new ones—much confusion must otherwise ensue. An Office for the old Accounts must I think be established and one Commissioner with proper Assistance will be sufficient, to him may be committed what remains of the Qr. Master—Commissy Marine Cloathing & Hospital Departments and all other accounts between the United States & Individuals which originated during the War.
The Accounts which Originated since the war which I classed under the head of the Current Accounts may very well be Closed under the direction of the present Auditor—tho’ in the old Books which have always been kept by Mr. Nourse who is again Register. The Auditor may also take charge of the Secret Commee Accounts—or if thought more proper may be given to the Commissioner of Old Accounts.
As to the time it will take to finish this business I cannot form a judgement. In seven years they will not be all settled tho’ in less than one half of that time they may probably be brought into that State as to render any seperate Office for them unnecessary.
At all events an Office for the purpose should be established in the first instance. The business will then be going on whilst the Treasury Department are forming their Systems and If at any future period it shall be thought proper to bring the Old Accounts under the immediate direction of the Treasury Officers it will not then be attended with that confusion which I am confident would now ensue from mixing them.
I have given you my thoughts on the subject just as they occurred and have no time to reduce them to any order. If they are of any service ⟨to you⟩ I shall be glad.
I am very Sincerely   Dr Sir   Your very Obed Servt

Ben Walker

I am ashamed to mention to you again my two old Clerks Mr. Rogers & Mr Sweeney but they are Men of abilities & My Solicitude to get them Employ must excuse me.

Colo. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Allibone, 17 September 1789
From: Allibone, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, September 17, 1789. States that the port of Philadelphia lacks funds for the maintenance of aids to navigation in the Delaware River. Asks that United States funds be used for that purpose.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 17 September 1789
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New Haven [Connecticut] Sept. 17th 1789
Sir

I have had the honour to receive your favour of the 13th instant, by which I am informed that I have been appointed Auditor in the department of the Treasury. I embrace this first opportunity to give you notice that I have proceeded to this place on my way to New York, and that immediately upon my arrival there, I will do myself the honour to wait on you, for the purpose of acquiring such information relative to the duties of the office as will enable me to come to a decision whether I shall accept or decline the appointment.
I have the honour to be, with the most perfect consideration and respect, Sir, your most obedt Servant

Oliv. Wolcott Jr
The Honble Alexander Hamilton, Esq.Secretary of the Treasury


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Samuel A. Otis, [18 September 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Otis, Samuel A.

[New York, September 18, 1789]

Mr. Hamilton will be obliged to Mr. Otis for certified extracts from the journals of the Senate respecting his own appointments that of the Door Keep Assistants &c & will be glad to know whether he has any & what Clks & when appointed. He wishes this information without delay.
Friday Morning


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Sharp Delany, [19 September 1789]
From: Delany, Sharp
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, September 19, 1789]
Sir

I acknowledge the recpt of Yours by Mr. Duer of the 13th Inst— one by the Post covering a Letter to the Comptrolle[r]—and another directing a return of the Duties in my office.
The Letter to Mr Eveleigh shall be forwarded by the first Vessel and in respect to the Amt of Duties, I would beg leave to mention I furnished Your Assistant Secy Mr Duer with an Account therof in order to promote the negociation with the Bank together with a Copy for Your Use. Should you want any further return please to signify it, and it shall be forwarded immediately.
I would also beg your consideration of what steps should be pursued respecting goods imported after the first of August & before the Collection Bill & Commiss[ions] were forwarded. It is a matter of very considerable consequence, as well respecting the sums arising on goods so imported as on the equall measures to be pursued Throughout the Continent. I convened such of our Merchants as were in such predicament and they have agreed unanimously to abide by whatever may be the general Determination. I also got them to enter their Goods under the state Laws so that I have a full Acct of all Goods so circumstanced.
I would also request that certificates of Registry may be forwarded as soon as possible, as they are very much wanted.
I am Sir   with great Respect   Your most obedt & humble Servt

S Delany
Sept 19th 1789
Alexdr Hamilton Esqr. Secry of the Treasury


Title: Schedule I: Estimate of the Expenditure for the Civil List of the United States for the year 1789, 19 September 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

First. In relation to the late Government.For Congress

Dol. 90ths.
Dol. 90ths.

THE annual allowance made by the United States, in Congress assembled, the 23d August 1787, including the salaries of the private Secretary & Steward, house rent, and expences of the household, is thereby fixed at 8,000 dollars per annum; which being estimated to the 3d of March, the time fixed for proceedings to commence under the new constitution, is,
1,358 82

The salaries to the following officers are computed from 1st of January, to the times to which the late Board of Treasury have issued their warrant for payment, under a presumption, that they were entitled to salary until the delivery of the books, papers, and records of the late Secretary’s Office of Congress, to the Secretary of State.

                      The Secretary of Congress, from 1st of January to the 30th of June at the rate of 2,600 dollars per annum,
                      1,300

Deputy Secretary, same time, at 800,
400

One clerk to ditto,

ditto, at 450,
225

One Clerk to the 7th May, at 450,
158 10

Door-keeper to the 31st March, at 4[0]0
100

Ditto for taking care of office, for 9 months last past,
  40

2,223 10

3582  2

For the Department of the Treasury.

Computed from the first of January to the 11th of September, being the day on which the commission of the Secretary of the treasury is dated, and to which time the services of the respective officers were actually continued. Three commissioners of the board of treasury, each at the rate of 2,250 dollars per annum,
4,706 22

Their Secretary at the rate of 1,500 do.
1,045 75

Three clerks do.
450 do
941 23

Messenger & House keeper,
150 do
104 53

Accomptant of the Treasury,
800 do
557 70

Two clerks, at the rate of
450 do
627 45

Register of the Treasury, 1200 do

836 60

One clerk on the books of the public creditors, called debt founded at the Treasury, transfers, &c.
450 do
313 68

One do. on the principal books of the Treasury, in journalizing & posting, ditto,
313 68

One do. in copying fair statements of the public accounts and other transcripts, as required from the treasury books, ditto,
313 68

Two do. on the old accounts of the treasury, & books and accounts of late state commissioners, ditto,
627 45

Treasurer of the United States, at the rate of
1,250 do
871 47

One clerk at the rate of
450 do
313 68

Commissioner for adjusting the accounts of the late secret and commercial committees of Congress, including clerk’s wages, office rent, and other contingencies from the first of January to the 30th June, to which day warrants were issued by the late board of treasury on the presumption before mentioned, at the rate of 1,900 dollars per annum,
950

This commissioner, in virtue of his appointment by the late board of treasury, is in possession of all the books & papers of those two committees, and it is supposed will claim a compensation until the commissioner of the board expired.

Commissioner for adjusting the accounts in the commissary and quarter-master’s departments from the first of January to the 8th of May, 1789, when the commission expired, at the rate of 1,250 dollars per annum,
444  5

Eight clerks at the rate of 1,250 dollars per annum,
1,279 66

Commissioner for adjusting the accounts in the marine, cloathing and hospital departments, from the 1st of January to the 8th of May, when this commission also expired, at the rate of 1,250 dollars per annum,
444  5

Four clerks, at the rate of 450 dollars per annum,
637 54

One do. from the 1st of January to the 31st of March (the time of his decease) at the rate of 450 dol. per ann.
 112 45

15,441 77

For the Department of War.

Computed from the 1st of January to the 12th of Sept. when a new appointment of the Secretary was made, his services having continued to the period of his reappointment.

Secretary of the department, at the rate of 2,450 dollars per annum,
1,509 65

Three clerks, at the rate of 450 dollars each, Door-keeper and messenger, at the rate of 150 dollars per annum,
941 23

Door-keeper and messenger, at the rate of 150 dollars per annum,
  104 52

2,555 50

Thirteen Loan-officers and Receivers of Taxe

Computed from the 1st of January to the 30th of June, to which time the late board of treasury have settled with the receivers of New-York, New-Jersey and Delaware, the principal of which settlement will be applicable to all; they having been employed both in the receipt & payments of public monies to that time; are now in possession of all papers and records of their respective offices, and it is presumed will claim compensation to a later period, at the rate of 12,450 dollars per an. for thirteen, is

6,225

For the Department of Foreign Affairs, now comprehended in the Department of State.

Secretary of that department, per annum,
3,500

His secretary or chief clk. do.
800

Two other clerks at 450 dol.
900

Interpreter,
250

Door-keeper & messenger,
150

Minister plenipotentiary at the Court of France,
9,000

His secretary,
1,400

Charge des Affaires at the Court of Madrid,
3,000

Consul-general in France,
1,000

Agent at the Hague,
1,300

21,300

49,104 38

The salaries of this department, so far as they have been regulated by the present government, remain as before, except as to clerks, now at a rate not exceeding 500 dols.

For the Officers employed to settle the Accounts between the United States and individual states.

Three commissioners of the general board, each at 2,250 dol. per an. is
6,750

Deduct for vacancy of 3d commissioner, from 20th April to 7th Aug.
  675

6,075

Chief clerk, at 600 dollars per an. from 5th August,
245

Two clerks each 450 dols. per annum,
900

Messenger & doorkeeper,
150

Paymaster-general and commissioner of army accounts,
1,250

Ten clerks, at the rate of 450 dollars, per annum,
4,500

Two clerks, at the rate of 400 dollars per annum,
800

Commissioner for the states of South Carolina & Georgia, for preparing the accounts of those states with the United States, in order to settlement by the general board of commissioners, estimated from the 1st of January to the 16th of July, when the business was completed,
679 71

Two clerks for the same time, at the rate of 450 dollars each,
460

15,059 71

For the Government of the Western Territory.

The governor,
2,000

Secretary of the government,
740

Three Judges, at 800 dol. each,
2,400

Superintendant of Indian affairs, southern department,
1,000

Geographer of the U. States,
1,500

7,640

Pensions on the Civil List.

Isaac Van Vert, John Paulding, David William, A pension of 200 dol. pr. annum

to each, pursuant to an act of Congress of 3d November, 1788, is
600

Dominique L’Eglise, per act of 8th Aug. 1782, per an.
120

Joseph Traversie, per act of 8th August 1782,
120

Youngest children of the late Major General Warren, per act of the 1st July, 1780,
450

Eldest son of do. per act of 8th April, 1777, estimated,
600

Youngest son of General Mercer, per act of the 8th April, 1777, estimated at
700

James McKenzie, Joseph Brussels, John Jordan, per act of 15th September, 1783, entitled to a pension of 40 dollars per annum each,
120

Elizabeth Bergen, per act of 21st August, 1781,
53 30

Joseph DeBeauleau, per act of 5th August, 1782,
100

Richard Gridley, per acts of 17th Nov. 1775, and 26th Feb. 1781,
444 36

Lieut. Col. Touzard, per act 27th October, 1778,
360

George M. White Eyes, an Indian youth, who was lately under the care of Col. George Morgan, at Princeton, New-Jersey, but now in the city of New-York, educated, per act of 13th October, 1781. The expence for 1 year was
354 82

4,022 58

In relation to the present Government.

For the compensation to the President of the U. States,
25,000

That of the Vice-president
5,000

That of the members of Congress, computing the attendance of the whole number from the 3d of March to the 22d Sept. both days inclusive, 204 days, say 81 members, at 6 dollars per day,
99,144

Travelling expences, by estimation, there being no data for accurate calculation,
10,000

The secretary of the senate at the rate of 1500 dollars per ann. from the 8th of April, being the day of his appointment, to the 22d Sept.
687 50

Additional allowance from the time of appointment to the 22d Sept. 168 days, at 2 dollars per day,
336

Principal clerk to the secretary of the senate, from the 8th of May, being the day of his appointment, to the 22d Sept. 138 days, at 3 dollars per day,
414

Engrossing clerk, same time, at 2 dollars,
276

Chaplain to the senate, from the 15th April, the time of his appointment, to the 22d Sept. at the rate of 500 dol. per an.
221

Door-keeper to the senate, from the commencement of the session, being the 3d of March, to the 22d Sept. 204 days, at 3 dollars per day,
612

Messenger to the senate, from the 8th of April, the time of his appointment, to the 22d of Sept. 168 days, at 2 dollars per day,
336

To the clerk of the house of represenatives, from the 1st of April, the time of his appointment, to the 22d Sept. both days inclusive, at the rate of 1500 dollars per ann. (5 months, 2 3 ds.)
716 66

Additional allowance from the time of his appointment to the 22d Sept. 175 days, at 2 dollars per day,
350

Principal clerk in the office of do. from the 1st of April to the 22d of Sept. 175 days, at 3 dollars per day,
525

Engrossing clerk, from the 29th of May to 22d of Sept. 117 days, at 2 dol. per day,
233

Chaplain to the house of representatives, from the 1st of May, the time of his appointment, to the 22d Sept. at 500 dollars per annum,
197 21

Door-keeper to the house of representatives, from the 4th of April, the time of his appointment, to the 22d Sept. 172 days, at 3 dols. per day,
514

(Note. If he is allowed with the door-keeper to the senate, his pay from the commencement of the session, there will be an addition to be made in this place.)

Assistant door-keeper to the house of representatives, from the 4th of April, the time of his appointment, to the 22d Sept. 172 days, at 2 dol. pr day,
344

Serjeant at arms, from the 12th of May, the time of his appointment, to the 22d Sept. 134 days, at 4 dol. per day,
536

145,445 37

For the Department of the Treasury.

Secretary of the treasury, from the 11th of Sept. being the day of his appointment, to the end of the year, at 3500 dollars per ann.
1,069 93

Assistant of the Secretary of the Treasury, same time,
1500
458 42

Three clerks to do. for the same period, at
450
412 66

Messenger & office keeper do. at the rate of
150
45 81

Comptroller of the treasury, from the 12th Sept. the time of his appointment, to the end of the year, at the rate of 2000 dollars per annum,
611 10

Principal clerk to do. same time, at the rate of
800
244 44

Treasurer, from 12th Sept. the time of his appointment, to the end of the year, at 2000 dollars per annum
611 10

Principal clerk to do. same time, at 600 dol. per ann.
183 34

Auditor of the treasury, from 12th Sept. being the time of his appointment, to the end of the year, at 1500 dollars per ann.
458 42

Principal clerk to the auditor, same time, at 600 dollars per ann.
183 34

Ten clerks, being two less than the number heretofore employed by the accomptant and commissioners for settling the accounts of the quarter-masters, commissaries, cloathing and marine departments, and those of the secret and commercial committees; which services, by the present arrangement, devolve on the auditor; estimated for the same period, at the rate of 450 dol. per annum,
1,375

To the register of the treasury, from 12th Sept. being the time of his appointment, to the end of the year, at 1250 dollars per ann.
381 94

Five clerks in the register’s office, being the number here⟨tofore employed by the⟩ department of the treasury, estimated for the same period with the principal, at the rate of 450 dol. per an.
687 50
6,723

Department of War.

Secretary of the department, from 12th Sept. being the time of his re-appointment, to the end of the year, at the rate of 3000 dol. per ann,
916 50

Chief clerk for the same period, at the rate of 600 dol.
183 34

Two clerks, same time, at 450 dol. per ann.
275

Door-keeper & messenger, same time, at 150 dol pr. ann.
45 50
1,420 34

For the Judicial Department.

Computed according to the salaries reported by the committee, viz.

Chief Justice
4,000 per annum.

Five associate judges, each 3000,
15,000

Judge of Main District,
800

New Hampshire,
1,000

Massachusetts,
1,200

Connecticut,
1,000

New York,
1,500

New Jersey,
1,000

Pennsylvania,
1,600

Maryland,
1,500

Virginia,
1,800

South-Carolina,
1,800

Georgia,
1,600

Kentucky,
800

Attorney-General,
 2,000

36,600

Estimated for 2 months in the year 1789,

6,100

For Incidental and contingent Expences relative to the Civil List.

Under this head are comprehended foreign contingent expences, news-papers for Congress, printing journals of Congress, stationary & wood, together with the rent of the several offices.

Of the late Congress, from the 1st of Jan. to the 3d March, and of the office of their secretary, to the 30th of June,
486 59

Treasury department for 1 year, estimated
450

Accomptant’s office to 11th Sept. do. at
150

Register’s do.   do.
150

Treasurer’s do. do.
100

Commissioners for adjusting the commissary & qr. master’s department, to the 8th May,
126 59

Commissioner for adjusting the accounts of the marine, cloathing & hospital departments, to the 8th May,
126 59

Estimate expence for comptroller, treasurer, auditor, and register’s office, in stationary, on the new treasury department, from the 12th of Sept. to the end of the year,
150

Commissioners of the general board for one year, estimated at
450

Commissioner of S. Carolina and Georgia, to the 16th July,
76 31

Commissioner of army accounts, for one year,
276 60

Foreign contingent expences, estimated by the late secretary for foreign affairs, who observes, that the contingent expences abroad are uncertain, but he estimates 1 year at
3,000

Secretary of foreign affairs now comprehended in the department of state, for one year, estimated
350

Secretary at war, for one year,
800

Stationary & contingences for 13 loan-officers,
500

The door-keeper of the house of representatives, his estimate of the contingent expence of the United States, for wood, &c. for the second session,
 669 50

  7,862 18

Dollars
243,377 54

Alexander Hamilton,Secretary of the Treasury.
Treasury Department, September the 19th, 1789.


Title: Schedule II: General Estimate of Money requisite for the War Department for the year 1789, 19 September 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

  Pay of the Troops.

  Artillery.

  Dol. 90ths.
  Dol. 90ths.

  1
  Major, 12 mo. at
  45
  dol. pr. mo.
  540

  4
  Captains,
  35
  1,680

  8
  Lieutenants,
  30
  2,880

  1
  Surgeon’s mate,
  30
  360

  16
  Sergeants,
  6
  1,152

  16
  Corporals,
  5
  960

  8
  Musicians,
  5
  480

  8
  Artificers,
  5
  480

  232
  Matrosses,
  4
  11,136

  19,668

  Infantry.

  1
  Brigadier-general, with the pay of Lieut. Col. Com. for 12 mo. at
  50
  dol. pr. mo.
  600

  2
  Majors,
  45
  1,080

  7
  Captains,
  35
  2,940

  7
  Lieutenants,
  30
  2,520

  8
  Ensigns,
  20
  1,920

  1
  Pay-master,
  10
  120

  1
  Quarter Master,
  10
  120

  1
  Adjutant,
  10
  120

  1
  Surgeon,
  45
  540

  4
    do.   Mates,
  30
  1,440

  28
  Sergeants,
  6
  2,016

  28
  Corporals,
  5
  1,680

  14
  Drums & fifes,
  5
  840

  490
  Privates,
  4
  23,520

  39,456

  Subsistence.

  1
  Brig Gen. 12 mo.
  48
  dol. pr. mo.
  576

  3
  Majors,
  20
  720

  11
  Captains,
  12
  1,584

  23
  Subalterns,
  8
  2,2[0]8

  1
  Surgeon,
  16
  192

  4
  Mates,
  8
  384

  Rations for 840 non-commissioned officers & privates, at 1 ration per day each, are, for 365 days, 307,440 rations, at 12 90ths. of a dollar per ration,
  40,992

  46,848

Cloathing,
840
}
940 Suits at

Contingencies,
100
26 dol. each,

 24,440

130,412

Quarter Master’s Department.

Transportation, including the transportation of the recruits raising in Philadelphia, to the frontiers, the transportation of cloathing, medicines, ordnance and military stores, for the troops on the frontiers, the necessary removal of ordnance and military stores, the hire of teams, pack-horses, tents, boats, axes, camp kettles, boards, fire-wood, company books, stationary for the troops, and all other expences in the quarter master’s department.

10,000

Hospital.

For medicines, instruments, furniture & stores for an hospital for the frontiers, also for attendance when necessary at West-Point & Springfield,

1,000

Ordnance Department.

For salaries to the store-keepers at the several deposits, viz.

West Point,
}
3, at 40 dol. p. m.

Virginia,

Springfield,

1,440

Charleston, 1 store keeper, at 100 dollars per ann.
100

2 Assistants at 15 dol. pr. mo.
360

1 Store keeper at Philadel.
500

1   do   R. Island
96

1   do   Lancaster
96

1   do   F. Harkemer, 120

His subsistence, I dollar per week,  52

172

Rents of buildings for Deposits.

Philadelphia, 752 60

Virginia, 350

West Point, 400

1,502 60

Laborers at the several deposits
400

Repairs of arms,
10,000

Cleaning 30,000 muskets, at 12–90ths.
 4,000

18,666 60

Contingencies of the war department,

3,000

Contingencies of the war office,
800

Salaries of the officers,
3,950

 4,750

167,828 60

Copy of the original on file.

(Signed) H. Knox.

Alexander Hamilton.

Secretary of the Treasury.

Deduct the amount of the salaries of the officers,
3,950

Do. for contingencies. which are estimated in the civil list,
 800

163,078 60

Alexander Hamilton.Secretary of the Treasury.
Treasury Department, September the 19th, 1789.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Christopher Gore, 20 September 1789
From: Gore, Christopher
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, Septr 20. 1789.
Alexander Hamilton Esqr
Sir

Be pleas’d to accept my sincere acknowledgments for the politeness and attention, you discover’d in rectifying the mistake made in a conversation with mr Badcock. To lie under the imputation of acting in a character different from the one I assum’d was painful—to be consider’d in this light by one whose reputation is the boast of America was the most distressing of all circumstances that coud happen to a man of any sensibility. That I was anxious you shoud recollect the real situation of this business, by a recourse to the cotemporary papers, you will not be surpriz’d—and you will readily believe, that I felt a great satisfaction, in knowing you had done this, before you replied to mr Badcock.
with great respect I am   Sir your very obed servt

C. Gore


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Rice, 20 September 1789
From: Rice, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Boston, September 20, 1789. On October 5, 1789, Hamilton wrote to Rice: “Your Letter of the 20th of September has duly come to hand.” Letter not found.]


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Collectors of the Customs, 22 September 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander,Treasury Department
To:

Treasury Department.September 22d. 1789.
Sir

In consequence of arrangements lately taken with the Bank of North America, and the Bank of New York, for the accommodation of the Government, I am to inform you that it is my desire, that the Notes of those Banks, payable either on demand, or at no longer period than thirty days after their respective dates; should be received in payment of the duties, as equivalent to Gold and Silver, and they will be received from you as such, by the Treasurer of the United States.
This measure besides the immediate accommodation to which it has reference, will facilitate remittances from the several States, without drawing away their Specie; an advantage in every view important.

I shall cause you shortly to be furnished with such indications of the genuine Notes, as will serve to guard you against Counterfiets, and shall direct the manner of remitting them. In the mean time and untill further orders, you will please to recieve them; transmitting to me a Weekly Account of your Receipts and payments.
The Treasurer of the United States will probably have occasion, to draw upon you for part of the Compensation of the Members of Congress from your State.
These Drafts you will also receive in payment of the Duties, or in exchange for any Specie arising from them which shall have come to your hands.
I am   Sir   Your obedient Servant

Alex HamiltonSecy of the Treasury.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Whipple, 22 September 1789
From: Whipple, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, September 22, 1789. Encloses report on customs duties. Promises to transmit quarterly statements of tonnage and impost duties.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Davidson, 24 September 1789
From: Davidson, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Annapolis, September 24, 1789. On October 3, 1789, Hamilton wrote to Davidson acknowledging the receipt of Davidson’s “letter of the 24th of last month.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Duane, 24 September 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Duane, James

[New York, September 24, 1789. On September 24, 1789, Duane wrote to Hamilton: “I called upon you within the time limited to give you my answer on the Communication which … you was pleased to make me this morning.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Duane, 24 September 1789
From: Duane, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York] Thursday Evning 24 Septemr 1789
Dear Sir

I called upon you within the time limited to give you my answer on the Communication which in expressions so honorable you was pleased to make me this morning. As you was abroad I am deprived of the pleasure of a personal Interview.

Warmly attached to the Constitution from the clearest conviction that the happiness of my Country depends on it’s successful administration, I think I ought to decline no part which is assigned to me by those who have a right to decide. I shall therefore accept this office and with the higher satisfaction since the nomination is made without Solicitation and by the interference only of those who are most deeply interested in the Administration of Government.
I have the honor to be   With very great regard & respect   Dear Sir   Your most obedent humble Servt

Jas. Duane
Honorable Secretary Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, 25 September 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Treasury DepartmentSept. 25. 1789.
Sir

⟨Here⟩ with is a circular letter, the ⟨principal object of⟩ which relates to an arrangement with the ⟨Banks⟩ of North America and New York, founded upon an immediate accommodation to the public. I am not sufficiently acquainted with the constitution and operations of your Bank to determine posstively how far the receipt of their Notes in payment of the Duties would be a measure of prudence. Those of the banks of North America and New York being always represented by a specie fund, I consider as equivalent to Gold and Silver. From the information I have received, I conclude that those of your bank are on a similar footing. If so, it would be my wish that its Notes should also be received in payment of the Duties till further orders as an accommodation to the institution, and in its consequences to the State.
I am Sir   Your Obedt. Hble Servant
Ben: Lincoln EsqrCollector of the Customs for Boston & Charleston or his Deputy


Title: Promissory Note from Arthur St. Clair, [25 September 1789]
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, September 25, 1789]
Thirty days from the date hereof I promise to pay to Alexander Hamilton or order Two thousand dollars in specie for value received.

Ar. St. Clair
New York September 25. 1789