Title: Enclosure: Candidates for Army Appointments from Pennsylvania, [21 August 1798]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

LIEUTENANTS & ENSIGNS

John S Porter
McPherson
Probably good Ensign

Philadelphia
Francis Johnson Inquire

of Chester
David Denny
perhaps Lt.

Young & writes a good hand & good English

Archibald D DavisLancasterYoung
Dennis WheelenDavid Denny
do

Elija Griffiths
Richard Thomas
Passably

 Philadelphia formerly of Chester County
  ProctorF Gurney
Inquire

 Dy Quarter Master in W Expedin

Benjamin Worrell of Berks County
Judge Rush & others Sitgreaves
Quære if not good Ensign

Samuel Welsh
HollingsworthSheaf
Quære

Lazarus Stow
No recommendation

 42 years served in the army  of the Revolution  was wounded

Elijah B. Jarvis Philadelphia
Wm. Nichol Latimer worthy person & capable of rendering service
Inquire

speaks of property in Philadelphia

Robert Laurance Huntington
J CadwalladerDoctor Smith
Respectably as Lieut or Ensign

Eccles P. Barclay Philadelphia
James Cochranwho speaks well of him
Enquire

Henry Lewis Kean Philadelphia
McPhersonMiller
Probably will do for an Ensign

Thomas Swearingen Washington  County
son of a man of propertyhimself a man of property
Very Respectably

  AddisonSitgreavesHartley &c
Qr. if not a Captain or in the Artillery

David Duncan

Very Respectably

William Carson young Gentlem Dauphine County Liberal Education
Thomas DuncanJames Ross
Respectably

Harman Witner Lancaster
KiteraSitgreavesHeartley
Probably Ensign

George Hamell
well educated
Not strong

ChambersburghFranklin County  * strongly

Bird*
}
not personally known

Cromwell

Chambers

W Elliot

Qr. if Ensign

John Montgomery Harrisburgh Dauphine
Militia OfficersHannah GenlSitgreaves believes application merits attentionKittera
Tolerable perhaps Ensign

Ephraim Blaine Junr Cumberland

{
probably Ensign

Qr. Age

Samuel Dickinson
}

Cadwallader

Meredith

Inquire Secy of State

James Potts Philadelphia
sober honest young manMcPherson & others
probably good Lieutenant

Samuel B Magaw Mercersburgh 25 years
Samuel McGawWm. McGawsaid to understand Mathematics
Probably good subaltern

Enquire

Elisha P. Barrows York County native of Connecticut 28 years
good Scholargood moralsEddieMillerHand
Strong as Lieutenant

Daniel Lauman York County
}

John Hay Jun York County

Eddie Miller & othersYoung Menditto
application firmprovisionProbably good Ensigns

John A Douglass York County 20 years
EddieMiller & othersRespectable connections
Probably Ensign

William Irvine Cumberland

Davidson
}
good young man of respectable connections

&

Montgomery

Quære principles

William C Rogers Philadelphia
clever young manRush
Inquire

William Beatty Jun Franklin County 22 years old
mild but resolute asks for Lieut or Cornet in Cavalry Robert Johnson
cornet or Ensign

of spirit & respectable Connections Wm. Henderson

John Milroy Mifflin County
young man capable of duties of Lt.
Tolerably as Lieutenant

good standing & respectable connections George Latimer
Inquire

young man of good education & friend to the Governt—by Will Brown

supported by B Rush

Alexander McNairEdward NicholasThomas Lee ofHugh Scot

Pittsburgh
22 yrs.
1
}
James Ross

do.
23
2

Erie
25
3

Pittsburgh surgeons Mate
do

{
Strong enough as Subalterns

Andrew Irvin Huntington
}

Robert McCab do

Principal Inhabitants of the County
}

John Cadwallader   manly young men nothing specific

Quære Ensigns

Robert Chambers Huntington Young man
Integrity Industry Courage & abilities John Cadwallader
Tolerably as Ensign

Hugh H Potts Philadelphia
NicholsMcPherson
Well as Lieutenant

  &good appearancesuitable appearance
Qr. Ensign

John Biglan

James Stewart

John Sharp Cumberland
young man of handsome property
pretty well as Ensign

Heron

James Ross &c

John Davis
Will Henderson &
not strong

James Eakin Philadelphia
good Connections & principlesLatimer Gurney
Respectably as Lieutenant

Henry Betz German

respectable
}
Bingham

German family
John Biddle

C Reed
Young Gentleman

Danl Clymer
honest active & sober

pretty well as Lieut.  Inquire

Henry Lancaster
Bingham strongsundry inhabitants

John Smith qr. if not Northumber

Tolerably as Ensign

William Davis

perhaps Ensign

Thomas Lee—misfortunes of family—good orderly Sergeant

Doct Robert Johnson Surgeon General offers himself

William Monroe Philadelphia
recommended by his brother & Mr. Stoddert Harwood
pretty well as Lieutenant

 Marylander by birth
 Callahan all Annanpolis respectable familyMarbury Key unblemished reputation
or Ensign

    Surgeons

John E Buchanan
by Henderson

Samuel Lyons Mate
Rush & Shippen

John Henderson
by Js. Biddle & others

John McClellan
by Doct R Johnson

Doctor Dart
by Irvin Navy

James Irvin Mate
McCosky & Wm Irvine

Roger Wales
Citizens of York County

James Ramsay
Doct Patterson (Reversed)

Robert Ross
by his sister Anna Thorp

John Rippy
Hartley

Francis J Smith
Sitgreaves & others reputation last War

John McDowel
by Francis Johnson

James Forbes
by George Baer

    Subalterns

James Caldwell Wheeler Ohio 28 years
Sam Hughes—recommends in genral terms
Not strong

Captains

Some Lieutenants

Samuel Llewellen
Wm Jones
Quaere if not an Ensign.

 served as Non Commissioned officer
Richard Thomas
Probably Not

X
Thomas Bartow
Goodhue
Respectably

X
 Philadelphia
H Latimer

S. Smith

Stephen Kingston

No recommendation

X
James Blaine Cumberland
McPherson & others
Respectably

Bernard Hubly Junr Sunbury
Capt last War

X
   Henry Lancaster
strongly recom by Bingham

X
Isaac Duncan Philadelphia
applies for Capt of CavalryMcPherson & Latimerstrongly recommended

X
Robert Conolly Lt in Revolutionary armyBucks County
McPherson & otherswrites badly.probably not excellent

Charles De Krafft Foreigner
alleges himself to be an old soldier

  Philadelphia dated
Capt of Engineers

No Recommendation
Inquire

Robert Taylor
William Bingham
Qr

Joseph Long Lancaster

Coleman
}

Smith

Hand

Wheelen

Denny

Respectably (not clear).

Signs a letter written by another

James P Nelson Mifflin County
GreggEdmiston
Likely to raise a company

☞
GurneyWm. Brown
sober young man

Jno. Clarke
surveyor

supported by LatimerGeneral Irvine
respectably for a Lieutenancy strong

Samuel Irvin Northampton
property & connections good politics
strongly recommended

good qualitiesSitgreaves
For Captain but will accept a Lieutenancy

Robert Hunter Philadelphia
Not Strong Duncan

Lieper

James Ashman
Govr. Howard
Respectably

 Huntington Major of Militia
satisfied he is a young Gentleman of great merit

Robert Provines of Huntington
Not strong
Capt. or Lieutency

Samuel BowmanLuzerne
Sitgreaves who is strong—advises that he be permitted to nominate his own Lieutenants
Provisional Army

said that he was in the Revolutionary Army Letter Aug 8.

William Graham Bedford
well recommed by James Ross Senator

Joseph Gray Huntington
vigour of YouthNot strong
will be Ensign

Thomas Dewes
Not strong.

will go into Marine if he cannot do better

Thomas Anderson Mifflin County
has lost two brothers in American service
No recommendation Qr

Jesse Smith Bucks County
Qr if not an Ensign

Robert McKee Dauphin
Nothing strong

Henry G Slough Lancaster 24 years
HandColeman Kittera good subaltn McP.
respectably as Lieutenant

George Brown faithful Citizen Bucks
Not strong

X
John E Buchanan Jun Franklin County
John Cadwaller &c recommends
Respectably Inquire

Daniel Eddy Lucerne
Perfect Lt McP.
Not strong Inquire

Qr. if not good Ensign

William Bell Philadelphia acquainted with Dauphin
Hand on credit of others
Qr

James Ralston EastonYoung Gentleman
SitgreavesJ BeattyGov Howel
Respectably

John T O Neal
undaunted CourageSkyrenWm Wister

Richard Willing
very good pretensions

Benjamin Wallace Dauphin County
WattsAlexanderDuncan
Respectably as Subaltern

Hugh Brady Sunbury in Northumberland

Lieutenant in Western Army
}
Father & brother lost in Revolution

Daniel Smith

Thomas Grant

McPherson
}
good Captain

Miles

Rawle

Robert Gray same place came from Ireland very Young
Daniel Smith ☞ Gentleman & man of spiritYoungHall
Now Captain of a Volunteer company

J Ewing
Respectably

will accept Lieutenancy

Francis Ingraham Bucks County
Refers to J Laurence & General Moylan
PropertyInquire

Samuel Fulton Merchant Philadelphia

McPherson
}

Baynton

Fox

Latimer

B Rush

Rawle

Respectably capt or Lieutenancy of Artillery

Wm C. Rogers Philadelphia
very respectably recomd for Capt. of Dragoon McPherson

Andrew Boggs Mifflin County
Gregg reputable for Lieutenancy
Qr.

Hartley speaks of his connections good

no impropriety
Respectably recommended ☞

Benjamin Gibbs Philadelphia
RawleMcPhersonSitgreaves

Charles Wm Porter

Stephen S Gibbs
Rawle
Respectably

 Philadelphia
RundleBaintonMorgan
☞

Cromwel Pierce Chester
QuaereRichard Thomas
now Capt of Militia

Jno Hannum.

Andrew Johnson
Hartly & RobinsonClarke & Eddyofficer late War
Qr

Frederick Evans Middle CreekNorthumberland
HartlyKiteraSitgreaves
Not very strong  Qr

Richard Parker Carlisle
William AlexanderStorekeeper
Qr

James Reid York County company
RusselEddieMiller
now Adjutant probably a good Lieutenant?

Captains

Josiah McElwane  4 Philadelphia
Anthony Latimer Gurney Philadelphia
☞

Henry Westcot do
Anthony Rundle Latimer
☞

Gibbs
Anthony

Thomas W Britton
McPherson Morgan Hare

Matthew Henry!! Lancaster Law

Hy. Miller—Sitgreaves—Kittera
}

Hand Coleman

☞ Strong

William Wallace (law)
Kittera
Qr.

Joseph Knox Young Merchant Shippensburgh 25 years
John Shippen G Chambers —Hartly Kittera

Wm AlexanderHe will take a Lieutenancy well ☞

Nelson Wade Montgomery County
Not Strong Benj Rittenhouse

Quaere? ask for Ltcy.

Edward Pearce Chester County Lieutenant
Richard Thomas  Quaere

Jacob Ashmeade
Capt late War
Inquire

Peter Faulkener Easton
officer in late armyFœderalDayton

Sitgreaves
Strong ☞

John Johnston Lewistown
PotterEdmeston
Quaere?

George Kerr   46 Yk County— Merchant
HandMillerHartly
pretty good recommendation

property

Daniel Broadhead JunrPhiladelphia 49
Kittera
Qr

James Simmons   50 Philad
NorthBrooks
Qr. his political principles?

James House   51PhiladelphiaPainter from New England
HopkinsonHarpur
RespectableQr. Lieutenant

George Armstrong Mifflin Town
Gregg OtisWm. SterritProctorJames Armstrong
Subaltern Respectably

Alexander Jackson Mifflin Town  53
Wm. SterritProctor
Subaltern Qr

James Stewart Cumberland
Col Andersonsupported by Latimer Nichol &c
Deserving young man

Edward Scott   56

Qr. if not a tolerable Lieutenant

Lt Colonels & Majors

1
William Richardson Atlee
Major recomd by
F Johnson

                C

                G Latimer

    McPherson & others

14
Andrew Ralston

do recom Irvin & others. P Qr

17
Jacob Slough

do Kittera & Sitgreaves

  C

  Indifferently spoken of by the Officers of the Western army as to Courage

  well recommended by Coleman

Samuel Craig 41   C
Well recommended Capt in Arm
}
Moore Johnson
Kittera St Greaves
}

James Smith 61   C
Brevet Captain   Gurney   Laurance
St Greaves Peters
Hand Bingham

Philip Strubing 82
Cavalry

Joseph McKinney 88—129
John Montgomery
Hartley
Well worth

E Blaine
Kittera
confidence

Js. Armstrong
J Shippen
General Irvin

William Alexander

A Grade lower

Andrew Johnson 38 & 96

                      officer in late War Clarke J Eddy
                      }

Prothos
}
Qr if not for Captain

George Taylor 154
Inquire of McPherson

Edd. Butler 155
Recommended by George Walton at present Capt in the army

Benajmin R Morgan—Qr

James Blaine Cumberland

Miller & others
Majority too much

John Walbach Lancaster

foreign Major of Cavalry

Lt Col

  Alexander Patterson
  No. 25
  Recommended by Sitgreaves & Hand the latter knew him as quarter Master

  George Stevenson
     157
  James Ross as Major

  William Henderson
      70
  Capt in Army   Hand & Irvin

  Thomas Moore
      79

    Wm. Bingham

    William Alexander

  James Ross Lancaster
      16
  well recommended but wont do

  Francis Nichols
  formerly a Major or Lieutenant Colonel
  Inquire particularly

  Thomas Buchanan

    Captain

  Cumberland Brigadier of Pensylvania
  says hes as brave as Ceaser

    universally beloved

  Respectably

  General Irvin recommends him for his intelligence
  Lt Colonels & Majors

  Uriah Springer Fayette County formerly a Captain in
    Revol. Army
  T. Lewis

    Inquire

  served in Western army Adlum
  strong by Peters

  General John Gibson

              Pensylvania

                2
                Joseph McKinny
                Capt
                Cumberland

                10
                John Sharp
                Lt
                do

                7
                George Hamell
                Ensign
                do.

                3
                James Blaine
                Capt
                Cumberland

                6
                Samuel B Magaw.
                Lt. Chamb.
                Franklin

                8
                Archibald Davis
                Ensign
                Lancaster

                [Lding Lt.] Andrew Johnston
                Capt.
                York

                3
                Elisha P Barrows
                Lt
                do

                6
                John A Douglass
                Ensign
                do.

                6
                Matthew Henry
                Capt
                Lancaster

                7
                Henry G Slough
                Lt.
                do

                10
                Thomas Witner
                Ensign
                do

                4
                George Taylor
                Capt
                Philadelph

                1
                Samuel Fulton
                Lt
                Philadel

                2
                Hugh H Potts
                Ensign
                do

                5
                William R Atlee
                Capt
                Philadelph

                5
                Josiah McElwane
                Lt.
                Philadelph

                3
                John S Porter
                Chester
                do

                7
                Hugh Brady
                Capt
                Sunbury Northumberland

                2
                James P Nelson
                Lt.
                Mifflin

                9
                John Smith
                Ensign
                Northumberland

                8
                William Graham
                Capt
                Bedford

                8
                Robert Laurance
                Lt
                Huntington

                5
                Robert Chambers
                Ensign
                Do.

                10
                David Duncan
                Cap
                Alleghany

                4
                Edward Nicholas
                Lt.
                do.

                1
                Alexander McNair
                Ens
                do.

                9
                Thomas Swearingen
                Capt
                Washington

                9
                Benjamin Wallace
                Lt.
                Dauphine

                4
                Thomas Lee
                Ensign
                Erie

                      [annexed to the New Jersey Regiment]
                      {

                3
                Samuel Bowman
                Capt.
                Lucerne

                1
                Samuel Irvine
                Lt.
                Northampton

                6
                John Milroy
                Ensign
                Mifflin

                2
                Peter Faulkener
                Cap.
                Easton Northampton

                3
                Henry Betz
                Lt.
                Read Berks

                5
                Benjamin Worrall
                Ensn.
                do.

                      [annexed to the Jersey Regiment]
                      {

                10
                James Ralston
                Capt
                Easton Northampton

                10
                William Carson
                Lt.
                Dauphine

                10
                John Montgomery
                Ensign
                do

                [Pennsylvania Field Officers]

                [Thomas L Moore
                Philadelphia
                Lieut. Colonel

                Wm: Henderson
                Franklin
                1st. Major

                George Stephenson
                Allegany
                2d. Major]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Timothy Pickering, 21 August 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Trenton, August 21, 1798. On August 21, 1798, Pickering wrote to Hamilton: “Not to miss the mail, I wrote you one line today.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Timothy Pickering, 21[–22] August 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Hamilton, Alexander

(Confidential)
Trenton August 21. [–22] 1798.
Dear Sir,

Not to miss the mail, I wrote you one line today, and inclosed a letter from I suppose General Miranda. If its contents give rise to any questions which it will be prudent for you to ask and for me to answer by the mail, it may be done, otherwise the information may be suspended till we meet.
Just before I left Philadelphia, I received a letter from General Knox, in answer to one I had written at the request of Captain Mitchel of the artillery, who wished to be one of his aids de camp. Mitchel, you will have observed is since dead. But my object in noticing this matter is to inform you, that General Knox manifests, pretty strongly, his dissatisfaction in your being appointed in a manner to precede him in the military line; I conclude he will not serve. Altho’ I should have been well pleased with his accepting his commission, I do not by any means deem his loss irreparable. Altho’ by the delay of the nominations one day, I received your letter expressing your willingness to serve under Knox, yet I concealed it, in order that the arrangement of nominations of Major Generals, which I had seen, as formed by General Washington, & which I saw would govern, might leave you, where you ought to be, in the first place. In Genl. Washington’s answer to my letter, of which I sent you some extracts, there is not, as I recollect, the most distant idea of General Knox’s making any difficulty in acting subordinately to you; his apprehensions arise wholly on General Pinckney’s account. I think it right to add, That from the first moment that a commander in Chief was thought of, no name was mentioned but yours: for until the nomination was actually made, I had no suspicion that Genl. Washington would ever again enter the field of war. I know also that not only all your friends, but your political enemies have the highest respect for your abilities: while the latter, the political enemies also of General Knox, estimate his talents by a very moderate scale: and some persons have in my hearing called him a weak man. I think him neither weak nor great: but with pretty good abilities, possessing an imposing manner that impresses an idea of mental faculties beyond what really exist. I am certain that if he had been second to Genl. W. and of course likely to command in chief, great dissatisfaction would have been excited. I much doubt even whether the nomination would have been confirmed by the Senate.
I write this letter in the confidence of friendship, for the public good, which I conceive to be involved in your holding your present superior station. I have always supposed you & Genl. Knox to be cordial friends. I wish you to continue such: I persuade myself he is too good a patriot to suffer the present disappointment to actuate him to any improper conduct; and that he will at least passively acquiesce. I think he will gain no honor, by declining to serve under you: I rather believe his refusal will detract from the reputation he now possesses.
Mr. Wolcot showed me (as you requested) your letter to him suggesting the expediency of calling you & General Knox into immediate service—to aid the arrangements and operations of the department of war. I was so well pleased with the idea, and thought it so important, or rather so essential, to the formation of an army in time to afford some security to our country, that I told Mr. Wolcot I would write to the President, and urge the measure. Mr. W. approved. I have yet no answer. The Secy. of War was at the time indisposed: but enquiring of his chief clerk, I found that he also had written for the same purpose. It is since this that I received Genl. Knox’s letter before mentioned; and that gave rise to a new thought—that as he manifestly intended to decline accepting his commission, and the President would be on the spot to converse with him, the taking charge of the War Department again, might be proposed to him: for the President, I have seen, has been informed of a very general dissatisfaction in its present direction.
After the appointments of General Officers were made, but before they were known beyond Philadelphia I recd. a letter from Mr. Jay, expressing the same opinion respecting you which I had done to General Washington, & the same reasons (the nature of the war in which we were to be engaged) why superior talents should be sought for, without regard to rank in a former war. I therefore made Mr. Jay acquainted with my conduct in the business.
I am, dear sir, with great respect & esteem   yr. obt. servt.

T. Pickering.
General A. Hamilton.

Augt. 22. Since writing the inclosed I have turned to Mr. Jay’s letter. His words are—“I cannot conceal from you my solicitude that the late Secy. of the Treasury may be brought forward in a manner corresponding with his talents and services. It appears to me that his former military station & character, taken in connection with his late important place in the administration, would justify measuring his rank by his merit & value.” The reason of Mr. Jay’s solicitude is thus expressed—“We shall probably have very different Generals to contend with from those which Britain sent here last war; and we should have very different ones to oppose them from several of those who then led our troops.” This, you may recollect, is the same sentiment which I expressed in my letter to General Washington which I showed you. In a subsequent letter Mr. Jay joined me in regretting that the terms of the nomination and appointment left any room to question your right of preceedence. I mentioned the point to you: but you answered, that it had been settled in the case of Baron Steuben. No doubt you have seen some paragraphs in the Columbian Centinel (B. Russell’s fulsome paper) in which it is said that Genl. Knox is next in command to Genl. Washington. And a letter from the President to the Secy. of War (in answer, I suppose, to his calling you & Knox into service) expresses that to be his opinion, and consequently “that Pinckney must rank before Hamilton”: but that is not the only consequence. Lee & Hand were on the same day named and approved as Major Generals; and if Knox & Pinckney precede you, so will the other two; for I cannot see that their being named for the provisional army can make any difference, when that army shall be raised, and are you prepared for a station so much in the rear? God forbid that such an arrangement should be adopted. But the matter will rest on “General Washington’s opinion and consent:” and it is for this reason, principally, that I have added this postscript, that you may take such steps with the General as you may think proper to fix you in the station which the essential interests of our country require—the station in which I conceive the General meant to place you, according to the list which he sent by McHenry to the president, and in conformity with which, you, Pinckney & Knox were named. I have just read the Genl’s answer to my letter about you; he does not hint an idea of any competition save with Pinckney. I inclose it for your perusal—& to be returned. If North declines, the President is “prepared to appoint another and a better.” Is this Harry Jackson, or Cobb? Colo. Wm. Heth of Virginia would joyfully take that office. But the appointment of A. W. White has grievously offended him.
Sincerely adieu!

T.P.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Stoddert, [21 August 1798]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

[New York, August 21, 1798]
Dear Sir

I, about a fortnight since, wrote to you on the subject of a relation of mine desirous of entering into our Navy and recommending him as a first Lieutenant; to which letter not having received an answer, I am apprehensive it may have miscarried. You will oblige me by your opinion as speedily as convenient how far there is a prospect for him. I anticipate that there may be scruples from his character of foreigner; but on full reflection I am satisfied it is possible to carry this objection too far. The young man I recommend is every way worthy—I really believe he will be an acquisition. It has occurred to me that Capt Talbot lately arrived who is to take the command of the frigate building here, though an excellent man, is not a thorough bred seaman. Such a man as Capt Hamilton would be an excellent second.

The Secry. of the ⟨Marine⟩


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 21 August 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

New York August 21. 1798
My Dear Sir

Your two letters of the 9th. reached this place during an absence on necessary business which only terminated on Saturday.
Our friend McHenry has adopted the ideas suggested to him. And you may rely on my effectual cooperation. At the same time, as a total dislocation of residence, to fulfil in all its extent the idea you intimate, would be unqualified ruin to me, I must endeavor to avoid it. Frequent visits and constant communication and the immediate charge of certain branches of the service will I doubt not substantially suffice.
The objects you indicate as deserving primary attention will engage it.
In respect to Mr. Wharton, I shall with pleasure promote whatever may suit him & the service. But I do not know that there is in the establishment any provision for a clerk or Secretary to a General officer. It is usual except in the case of the Commander in Chief for Aides-De Camp to perform the duties of such characters. In reference to Aides, my situation is this—I have already yielded to the strong wishes of Mr. & Mrs. Church the promise to appoint their eldest son as one—for the other I must endeavor to find an experienced officer. If Mr Wharton desires an appointment in some regiment to take his chance for a place in the family of some general officer, I will assist the wish. Let me, if you please, understand this matter with precision.
Yrs. Affecty

A Hamilton
Oliver Wolcott Esqr


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Francisco de Miranda, 22 August 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Miranda, Francisco de

New york Aug 22. 1798
Sir

I have lately received by duplicates your letter of the 6th of April with a postscript of the 9th. of June. The Gentleman you mention in it has not made his appearance to me nor do I know of his arrival in this Country; so that I can only divine the object from the hints in your letter.
The sentiments I entertain with regard to that object have been long since in your knowlege. But I could personaley have no participation in it unless patronised by the Government of this Country. It was my wish that matters had been ripened for a cooperation in the course of this fall on the part of this Country.
But this can now scarcely be the case. The Winter however may mature the project and an effectual cooperation by the Ustates may take place. In this case I shall be happy in my official station to be an instrument of so good a work.
The plan in my opinion ought to be, a fleet of Great Britain, an armmy of the ustates, a Government for the liberated territorey agreable to both the Cooperators, about which there will be probably no difficulty. To arrange the plan a competent authority from Great-Britain to some person here is the best expedient. Your presence here will in this case be extremely essential.
We are raising an army of about Twelve Thousand men. Genl. Washington has resumed his station at the head of our armies. I am appointed second in command.
With esteem and regard I remain   Dr Sir


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Timothy Pickering, 22 August 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Trenton] August 22. 1798.
Dr. Sir

In writing freely as I have done yesterday and to-day in the inclosed letter to you, disclosing what is contemplated respecting your military station, far from being apprehensive of justly incurring blame I consider myself as performing a hazardous duty: but I am not conscious that the risque of incurring the displeasure of any man ever deterred me from doing what I conceived to be my duty. My anxiety to see you fixed second in command, has arisen from the opinion which for twenty years I have entertained of your superior genius and talents combined with integrity. The integrity of your competitors I trust is also unimpeachable. General Pinckney’s character I believe to be eminently pure: and were their other qualifications equal, my solicitude would cease: nay, there would be an evident propriety in their preceeding you. My interference has not proceeded from any claims you have on my friendship: for tho’ we were never to my knowledge for one moment at enmity, our acquaintance was never so intimate as in the proper, strict sense of the word to make us friends. My respect, esteem & attachment have been founded on the qualities of your head and heart, as above suggested: and all the return I expected was, the regard due simply to an honest man. Viewing me as entitled to this character, you will not, nor would any one who knew as well as you my frank, downright disposition, ascribe to flattery the sentiments I have expressed of you in our correspondence: it was impossible to reason on the subject without expressing them.
Thus much I have thought proper to add in justification and as an apology for the inclosed, and for any similar sentiments in former letters.
Adieu!

T. Pickering

P.S. I postpone sending Genl. Washington’s letter. I may want it in conversing with my colleagues, before the question of rank shall be referred to the General.

Alexander Hamilton Esqr.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 22 August 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

New York August 22. 1798
My Dear Sir

No one knows better than yourself how difficult and oppressive is the collection even of taxes very moderate in their amount if there be a defective circulation. According to all the phœnomena which fall under my notice this is our case in the interior parts of the Country.
Again Individual Capitals & consequently the faculty of direct loans is not very extensive in the U States. The Banks can only go a certain length and must not be forced. Yet Government will stand in need of large anticipations.
For these and other reasons, which I have thought well of—I have come to a conclusion that our Treasury ought to raise up a circulation of its own. I mean by the issuing of Treasury notes payable some on demand, others at different periods from very short to pretty considerable—at first having but little time to run.
This appears to me an expedient equally necessary to keep the circulation full & to facilitate the anticipations which Government will certainly need. By beginning early the public eye will be familiarized—and as emergencies press it will be easy to enlarge without hazard to Credit.
Think well of this suggestion and do not discard it without perceiving well a better substitute.
Adieu   Yrs

A Hamilton
O Wolcott Esq


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Timothy Pickering, 23 August 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Hamilton, Alexander

(private & confidential)
Trenton Augt. 23. 1798
Dr. Sir,

Mr Mc.Henry has just handed to Mr. Wolcott & me his letter to the President on the subject of calling you and Genl. Knox into immediate service, together with General Knox’s letter to him in answer to the one inclosing his commission. Genl. Knox’s letter claiming the first rank, I see has been transmitted to you, and I was glad to see you, in your answer to the Secy. of War, tenacious of the station in which the Commander in Chief, the President & Senate, and the public voice have placed you. I did not know till now that Genl. Washington had so explicitly written you respecting your taking rank of Genl. Knox, whom he loved; altho’ I had formed the same conclusion from his silence concerning him in his letter to me—which I now inclose, and which Mr. Wolcott only of my colleagues has seen. The original letter from Genl. W. to you, Mc.Henry now informs us, was by him shown to the President: notwithstanding which you have seen where you would have been placed. Mc.Henry said also, that Genl. W. made your appointment the sine qua non of his accepting the chief command. The weight of these facts seems to have escaped the President’s recollection, or he would not desire that Genl. Knox should take rank of you. It is plain that Genl. K. has conversed with him—referred to the rule of the former war, to determine the relative rank of officers of the same grade appointed on the same day; and the President has thence concluded that Genl. K. is “legally” entitled to the precedence. But, as I yesterday informed you, the change proposed to gratify Genl. Knox and the President, is by the latter put on General Washington’s “opinion and consent;” and such consent surely can never be given, after the General’s letter to you in which, as Mc.Henry says, he explicitly told you that he passed by Knox whom he loved, to give you the priority of rank. Upon the principle mentioned by Genl. Knox, Hand must clearly precede you, as well as Knox & Pinckney: Lee I presume must follow you, as he was only a captain of horse when you, as aid to the Commander in chief, had the rank of lieut. colonel. I see in your letter to Mc.Henry you refer to the public voice in your favour and justly, as I yesterday mentioned: yet the President imagines that the “five New England States” would be offended at your preceeding Knox! He is most egregiously mistaken: it was among New England members of Congress that I heard you, and you only, mentioned as the Commander in Chief—until Genl. Washington was nominated: and I dare to say, that if among the New England delegates a vote were taken, nine in ten, if not the whole, would place you before Knox.
Mc.Henry is to write you to-day on the subject. He is utterly uninformed of my correspondence with General Washington and you concerning it. The reference of the matter to General W. is suspended: you will consider whether it should not be made; for he must decide in your favour. Mc.Henry had thought of not so referring it; but of taking the course which he said he would state to you to-day—that is, to propose to General Knox to accept, with a reservation of his claim under the old rule appealed to by him: at the same time Mc.Henry says that rule is not now in force, nor ought to govern. Why then urge Genl. Knox’s acceptance on that ground? It would be a delusive proposition to Genl. Knox; and if it did not eventually prove so to him, you would be in a predicament to excite the extreme regret of the great body of your fellow citizens, who would the more deeply deplore the arrangement from the very possible fall or other inevitable loss of the present commander in chief.
Very truly yours

T. Pickering.
A. Hamilton Esq


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Adams, 24 August 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adams, John

New York August 24th. 1798
Sir

I have recommended to the Secretary at War, Mr Philip Church, my nephew, for the appointment of a Captain of Infantry. This young Gentleman is personally known to you; but your knowlege of him is too slight to render it useless to speak of his qualifications. To the advantages of a good education he adds a very discreet judicious mind and an excellent heart—duly animated by that laudable pride and emulation which are the sure foundation of military worth. He is the eldest son of his father and extremely interesting to his parents and friends. I have myself so favourable an opinion of him that it is my intention to take him into my family as an Aide De Camp.
Under these circumstances, very contrary to the general rules by which I govern myself, I take the liberty to request his appointment as a personal favour to myself—and I venture to undertake for him that he will not discredit it. The appointment will also lay himself and all his friends under a particular obligation.
Let me at the same time beg you to be persuaded, Sir, that I shall never on any other occasion place a recommendation to office on a similar footing.
With perfect respect & esteem   I have the honor to be Sir   Your very Obed servt.

A Hamilton
The President of The UStates


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Stoddert, 24 August 1798
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Trenton 24 Aug 1798.
Dr. sir

I should have replied to your letter of the 8 Inst, before this time, had it not mentioned your intention of setting out on a Journey. I am since honored with yours of the 21st.
I have no motive but truth, in saying that there is no man known to me by Character only, to whose wishes I would pay so much respect as yours—that I think you have such claims on this Country & this Govt.—that to insure the appointment of a Gentn. to be a Lieutt. in our navy, it should be sufficient to know it would oblige you. Anticipating that objections might be made at New York to Capt Hamilton, on the score of his being a Foreigner, I had turned my attention to the southward for an appointment for him—& I lamented that a Lieutt had already been mentioned to the Prest. for the Montezuma, of 20 guns, at Baltimore. Two more Vessels are preparing there, of 18..9 Pounders & one of larger size at Charleston—to one of these I supposed there would be no difficulty in appointing him first Lieut. To the South there are but few qualified men for the Navy—of course less competition. The middle & Eastern States, are able—at least it seems to be thought so—to furnish officers for our navy. If however, you prefer that Capt Hamilton should be mentioned to the Prest. for the Frigate at New York, I will with the utmost pleasure exert my influence for his appointment. In this case, presuming you know Capt Talbot, it might obviate objections, if he also would desire it.
I have the honor to be with real respect & esteem Dr Sir Yr most Obed Servt

Ben Stoddert.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Jay, 27 August 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jay, John

New York Aug 27. 1798
Dear Sir

I was very sorry when at Albany not to have seen you. I called the day after my arrival but you were then indisposed or abroad & the rest of my stay I was very unwell.
An apprehension is excited here that in consequence of the Petitions of the Militia Officers the persons named to the new Companies will not be appointed. I take it for granted that this must be a groundless apprehension as far as may depend on the Executive. For certainly the ordinary Militia Officers can on no military principles have any pretensions in relation to new and extraordinary Corps which grow up—or are created. And as to expediency, nothing can be clearer. The utility of these new corps in various aspects needs no comment. Their existence depends on their being officered in the manner they themselves desire. To attempt to place them under the present Militia officers is to annihilate them.

Ten to One the Opposition on the part of these Officers originated in an Antifoederal scheme. Let them by their disappointment be disgusted & resign. What then? They will have acted presumptuously or ignorantly. Many bad men will be gotten rid of, & the best can easily be replaced with as good or better. Tis then a plain case. There is really not a difficulty worth the least attention.
Mr. Gracie has solicited my interposition with you for the pardon of Janus Ross lately convicted of forging a Check on the Bank. His argument is that the culprit is of respectable connections in South Carolina—quite a lad (say from 16 to 18) a very simple lad—& led to this act by the embarrassment of not being able to account for the prudent expenditure of a sum of money advanced him by a friend of his fathers for his own use. I confide in what Mr Gracie says, & really believe it is as favourable a case for a pardon as can easily occur.
I remain with respect & true attachment Dr Sir   Yr Obed serv

A Hamilton
Governor Jay


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 27 August 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York Aug 27. 1798
Sir

You will have observed in the list transmitted you the name of Mr. Jacob Morton as for a Majority. I understood him that he would accept it. But he now tells me he will take nothing less than a Regiment. This seems too much to begin with, if a competent person who has served can be found.
Mr. Abijah Hammond who was in one of the N Eng Regiments during the War though not soliciting it would accept a Regiment. I do not know his character as an Officer. But from his present condition in Society, being a man of large fortune & fair character, from his being a man of good understanding & of exertion, I conclude that he would make a respectable Commander of a Regiment & would be satisfactory. Walker is to be preferred if he will accept. But the Presidents sanction may be obtained in the alternative, for Walker if he will accept, for Hammond if Walker declines.
In the Event of Walker’s declining, the place of first Major may be proposed to Hammond, which however I fear he would not accept. In this event T. Fowler must be thought of.
Mr. John Morton offers as a candidate for a Company. This Gentleman has had a liberal education has been in the Militia (a Major I am told) & is of good principles & character. His pretensions are respectable.
Inclosed is an application from a good & decent citizen; but it is necessary to tell you he was only a drummer in the late army & would not be an acceptable colleague to those in the list of Entrants &ca


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Timothy Pickering, 29 August 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Pickering, Timothy

New York Aug. 29. 1798
My Dear Sir

Your friendly letters of the 21. 22 & 23 of August have been duly received. I feel myself at once much flattered and truly indebted for the very favourable opinion of me which you manifest. The good estimation of men of sense and virtue is an ample consolation for the censure & malice of those of a different character. While the expression of your sentiments has all the value which a well known sincerity & integrity of disposition can give. Be assured that I shall be happy to be ranked by you in the number of your friends.
The course of the thing in a particular quarter does not surprise. Besides the direct influence which would be exerted, I am aware that the circumstances of the late election for President have made some unfortunate impressions. The Commander in Chief, I am authorised by his own communications to me to believe, will not easily relinquish the spirit of the primitive arrangement. But in the last resort I shall be inclined to have much deference for his wishes. It is important he should well understand what I verily believe to be an undoubted fact—that New England would rather see high command in my hands than in those of G—— Knox.
With very cordial regard & esteem   I remain Dr. Sir   Yr. Obedient servt

A Hamilton
T Pickering Esq


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Theodore Sedgwick, 29 August 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Sedgwick, Theodore

New York Aug 29. 1798
My Dear Sir

Your letter of the 3. instant came seasonably to hand. Business & absence from this place have delayed the acknowlegement.
The persons you mention have been correspondently placed before the Secretary at War.
As to Military Affairs, they lag not a little. No appointments of Regimental Officers yet made. McHenry as you know is loaded beyond his strength. It was an obvious idea to derive aid from among the General Officers. But instead of embracing this resource they have all been told that the President hoped they would think it proper to wave the emoluments of their Offices till called into actual service.
Steps have been taken towards the correction of this obvious mistake, the success of which now depends on the President—and on that success the alternative of some or no energy.
Adieu My Dr Sir

A Hamilton
T Sedgwick Esq


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Stoddert, 29 August 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

New York Aug 29. 1798
Dear Sir

Your obliging letter of the 24 instant duly came to hand. The very polite ground on which you give me to expect your cooperation in procuring an appointment for Capt Hamilton has a very strong claim to my acknowlegement.
In consequence of the information in your letter, I have seen Capt Talbot. He seems to expect an official notification from your department to ascertain and fix his own situation; considering the events subsequent to his original appointment as a kind of supersidias. The want of this makes him diffident about taking any part on the presumption of his command of the frigate here. This impediment removed, I am in hope he will incline to favour my wish for an appointment of Capt H to that frigate, if it can be done with perfect convenience & propriety; otherwise we shall be completely satisfied with the alternative which you suggest.
Accept my cordial thanks & the assurances of the sincere esteem & regard with which I have the honor to be Dear Sir
Yr Obd. servant

B Stoddert Esq


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Adams, [3 September] 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Quincy [Massachusetts, September 3] 1798
Sir

I have received the Letter you did me the Honor to write me on the 24. of August: but not till the first of September: otherwise it would have been answered sooner. Mr Phillip Church, your Nephew whom you recommend to be a Captain of Infantry I have had the Pleasure to See, both in New York and Philadelphia, and have been so well Satisfied with all I know of him as to be very willing to appoint him and shall write to the Secretary at War accordingly.
With great Esteem I have the Honor to be Sir your most obedient and humble servant

John Adams
General Hamiltonat New York


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Timothy Pickering, [3 September 1798]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Pickering, Timothy

[New York, September 3, 1798]
Dr. Sir

As I imagine you are acquainted with the Inhabitants of Wilkesburgh or Wilksborough in Pensylvania & the neighbouring Country, I take the liberty to request information of some trusty, intelligent, active young lawyer in that quarter to be entrusted with the management of some land concerns of importance in which my Brother in law Mr Church is interested. You will of course suppose that in suits which may occur, able Counsel in Philadelphia will be added. But it is desireable to have near the scene a clever fellow to be entrusted with the formal parts, with the detection of intrusions, with negotiations &c. Your answer as early as convenient will oblige
Yrs. truly

A Hamilton
Sepr. 3. 1798
T Pickering Esqr.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Stoddert, 3 September 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

New York September 3. 1798
Dear Sir

Considering the great length of time before the Frigate here will be ready for sea—I have concluded that it may be expedient, if it can be effected, to have Capt. Hamilton appointed & assigned to some Southern Vessel which will sooner be ready. I imagine Cap Talbot will be glad hereafter to have him as an associate. If this can be conveniently managed in the proper time, it will give me pleasure.
Accept the assurances of my esteem & regard

A Hamilton
Sept 3. 1798
B Stoddert Esq


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Stephen Van Rensselaer, 3 September 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Van Rensselaer, Stephen

[New York, September 3, 1798. Letter listed in dealer’s catalogue. Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Timothy Pickering, 4 September 1798
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Trenton Sept. 4. 1798.
D. Sir,

I have recd. yours of yesterday. One or two new lawyers have settled in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, since I left it in 1791. I am not perfectly clear in recommending any of the old ones. I have it in my power to make enquiry which I believe may be satisfactory, and will inform you of the result. The town you refer to is not Wilkesburg or Wilkesborough, but Wilkesbarré—from Jno. Wilkes and Colo. Barre.
I have this moment recollected a former inhabitant of Wilkesbarre now here, on whose knowledge and opinion I can rely. He thinks Putnam Catlin Esqr. the most eligible lawyer for such an agent as is called for. Such was my opinion also, having known him there for four or five years: but as the trust was of magnitude I wished not to rely on my own knowledge which was less intimate than that of the person of whom I have now made the enquiry. This person thinks Mr. Catlin not only the most eligible, but that his integrity may entirely be relied on & I was disposed to entertain the same opinion. I remember he always engaged with the most earnest zeal in the cause of his clients: and all his actions manifested a frankness of heart: nor has anything ever occurred, to my recollection to excite even an unfavourable suspicion of the rectitude of his character.
I am with great truth   Your respectful & obt. servt.

T. Pickering

There is a weekly mail between Philadelphia and Wilkesbarré, closing at Philaa. every Tuesday evening at sunset.
Alexander Hamilton Esqr.

☞   Reading again your letter, in which you mention the prosecution of intruders, by this agent of Mr. Church it becomes proper that I should inform you that Mr. Catlin was embarked in opinion and feelings with the Connecticut Susquehannah Company: and that he would reluctantly commence suits against the Connecticut settlers before this time, whom the Pennsylvanians call intruders. But my informer tells me that he believes all the lawyers in the county now set their faces against new instrusions.
T. P.
If Mr. Church wants an agent in Northumberland County in Pennsylvania, I would recommend Charles Hall Esqr. a lawyer at Sunbury, who has a good and increasing reputation.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Judah, 5 September 1798
From: Judah, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

London, September 5, 1798. “I find by private & public Intelligence that my Country … is determined to defend her claims against an insidious Foe.… I have been in Europe about two years …; from the connections I have both here, and on the Continent, I trust that I could procure on the lowest terms, any quantity of Arms &c. that our Government may want.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Jay, 8 September 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jay, John

New York Sep. 8. 1798
Dear Sir

I beg your pardon for having omitted to attend earlier to the suggestion in your letter of the 30th. of August respecting the defence of our ports.
I am sincere in saying that a charge of this kind would on various accounts be unpleasant to me among the rest as likely to involve ill natured & foolish criticism. But I shall not decline the trust if you think proper to repose it provided the manutension of the money is no part of it, equally disposed to be useful to the public and to second you in the objects of your administration.

The idea of organising the volunteer companies in one corps is a good one & if Troupe

   Pendleton would also be a good appointment

 will act his appointment to the command will be eligible & satisfactory.
With true esteem & regard I have the honor to remain Dr Sr
Yr Obed S

A Hamilton
G Jay


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 9 September 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York, Sept. 9, 1798.
My Dear Sir,

I think I heretofore mentioned to you that to avoid the chance of difficulty with the President, I had written or would write to him urging the appointment of Mr. Philip Church to a Captaincy. I have just received a very obliging letter from him, and in which he assures me of his willingness to appoint him to that grade, and that he would write to you accordingly. Thus is all difficulty on this point removed. In proportion as I look to the event of my laying down my military character, is my solicitude that this young gentleman shall be eligibly placed.
Yours affectionately,

A. Hamilton
J. McHenry, Esq.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Walker, William Inman, and William Cooper, 9 September 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Walker, Benjamin,Inman, William,Cooper, William

New York, September 9, 1798. Requests “Mr. Inman and Mr. Cooper to agree upon another gentleman who jointly with me as arbitrators may pronounce upon” the account between Inman and Robert Morris.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 10 September 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Trenton 10th Septr. 1798
My dear Hamilton.

I received your letter of the 8th this morning. Mine to you to which it is an answer ought to have been dated the 6th instant.
I do not, I cannot blame you for your determination. Mr Pickering Mr Wolcott & Mr Stoddert have agreed to make a respectful representation on the subject to the President. You will not of course hear from me, relative to the commands of the President, ’till the result is known to me.
Yours affectionately

James McHenry
Majr. Gen. Alex Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus King, [13 September 1798]
From: King, Rufus
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Margate, England, September 13, 1798. Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 13 September 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Trenton 13 Septr 1798
My dear Hamilton.

I recd. yours of the 9th this morning. Why is it necessary you should repeat to me your request, or require any new evidence, that I will not take the same care of Philip Church as I would of my own son. Let Mrs. Church be assured I will.
Yours affecy.

James McHenry
Majr Gen. Alex. Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Jay, 17 September 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jay, John

New York Sepr. 17. 1798
Dear Sir

The death of Mr. Remsen presents a vacancy of Notary which will be sought. Two applications are made to me—one by James Inglis Junr. who has just finished a Clerkship with me & taken a license as Atty in the Supreme Court—the other William Coleman lately connected in law business with Col Burr.
Inglis is a young man of handsome abilities, of application & of irreproacheable conduct. He is a native of this City, his father has lately failed in business advanced in life & on the son must very much depend the support of the family. Worth & situation both conspire to recommend him strongly.
Coleman is a man of conspicuous talents and as far as I have learned of real worth. Notwithstanding his connection, his political principles are zealously good. It is in my knowlege that he has written several valuable speculations on the public occurrences of the period. You may have seen a little attack on Judge Lewis neatly executed—Of this Coleman was the author. He too is in a situation to excite sympathy. With little advantage from his present employment, he has now a wife & children of his brother (who lately died of the prevailing fever) to maintain. I mistake it, if he be not a man well worth cultivating. Adieu My Dr Sir,
Respect & Affe

A H
Sep 17
G Jay


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus King, 17 September 1798
From: King, Rufus
To: Hamilton, Alexander

London Sep. 17. 98

I am charmed with the military appointments; in the main they are quite what they should be—such chiefs ought to give Glory as well as Security to their Country, and they will do both, if the occasions offer. You see that I relapse into my former strain. I know not what you and others whose Sentiments I respect may think, but I must unsettle all that is best settled in my opinions of the character of the present extraordinary crisis, or I cannot agree that an impassioned phlegmatic, cautious, inactive, and merely defensive war, even under the highest toned, and most vigorous form of Government, is capable of affording a tolerable chance of Security against such an adversary as France.
I do not intirely comprehend the views and proceedings of Congress, who appear to have done too much, or not enough, but I have been too long acquainted with the temper and composition of that Body, not to be able to conjecture the Difficulties that arise from the vanities of some, and the obstinacy of others, and which have given the appearance of Inconsistency to their measures.
Congress have adjourned, and it is of the highest importance that we should form a correct opinion of the course that France is likely to pursue. It is plain that discovering our union and firmness, france instantly decided upon the relinquishment of her Demands of apologies and Loans, and resolved to recede as far as shd. be necessary to regain her standing, and if possible her Influence, among our People. But she has had no intention of doing us Justice for the Past, nor of performing what she might be induced to promise in respect to the future. The Correspondence between Talleyrand & Gerry, inclusive of other cotemporaneous, and subsequent measures of the Same character, should convince us of the Justice of this Opinion. Logan who as we hear was provided with Letters from Jefferson, and others has been presented to Merlin as the Envoy of the patriotic party in America, he has been closeted with Talleyrand, and speaks openly of the probability of his success with the french Government. Since his arrival at Paris, the american seamen have been released, who in the laying of the Embargo were conducted to Prison, and the Directory have ordered the Embargo to be raised; the preamble of this arreté merits attention.
“29 Thermidor Le Directoire executif, considerant que malgré la manifestation hostile du Gouvernment des E. U., qui avait déterminé un Embargo momentané sur leurs Batimens, il doit croire qu’à moins d’etre livré aux Passions du cabinet britaniques, ce Gouvernment fidele aux interests de la Nation americaine, prendra des mesures analogues aux dispositions pacifiques de la republique francaise, dès qu’il en recevra la confirmation, et voulant suivre les habitudes amicales et fraternelles de la france, envers un Peuple, dont elle a defendu la liberté, arrete ce qui suit &c &c.” These proceedings should be compared with the Treatment and language received by our Envoys and we shall from hence be able perhaps to fathom the views, and to discover the means, of france. It is analogous to what has been done in other countries; difficulties and embarassments, complained of by the proper agents of such Countries have been aggravated and increased; and in order to divide the People from their Govt—Promises of Redress and satisfaction have been given to the Popular agents of such Countries, which had been refused to the Envoys of their Governments.
But we know nothing certain of the views of France since it has been known at Paris that our treaties are dissolved. The measures above referred to were of antecedent Date. I still think they will not declare war, but endeavour to attain their Object by humiliation and intrigue.
The war is on the eve of recommencing between France and Austria. Prussia will remain neuter. Germany will suffer herself to be incorporated with france in preference to being again at war with her. Naples will be engaged & Russia according to appearances will also become active.

K.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 18 September 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

[New York, September 18, 1798. On September 19, 1798, Wolcott wrote to Hamilton and referred to “your Letter of yesterday.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 19 September 1798
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Trenton Sept. 19. 1798
Dr. sir
(Private)

I shall send by this Post a Letter to Keeper of Debtors apartment in New York granting the priviledge recommended in your Letter of yesterday. As there are probably many persons ⟨liable⟩ to be held in close confinement, ought not the Governor, State Judges, and District Judges to direct the removal of the Prisoners to some Gaol in the Country?
I am acquainted with the state of a delicate question in which you personally, but the Govt. & Country are more interested. Measures have been taken to bring all right, if the thing be at all practicable.

The present embarrassment might I am persuaded have been entirely avoided—and I do not despair of having it corrected. As a friend to your fame, & the Interests of the Country I request you to say nothing and do nothing untill you hear from me, which will be ten days or a fortnight hence.
Your advice respecting the use of Credit has been & will continue to be regarded. The Finances will not fail before the other Departments—but the Government, will loose all confidence and will deserve none—if things are not managed with some portion of good sense. There is now no object, system or design—all is hurry, passion & imbecillity.
Yrs

Oliv Wolcott


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Jay, 20 September 1798
From: Jay, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Albany, September 20, 1798. On the back of a letter that Hamilton wrote to Jay on September 17, 1798, Jay wrote: “ansd. 20 Sep. 1798.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus King, 23 September 1798
From: King, Rufus
To: Hamilton, Alexander

London Sep. 23d. 98

You will have no war! France will propose to renew the negotiation upon the Basis laid down in the Presidents Instructions to the Envoys—at least so I conjecture.

If the negotiation is recommenced the most obvious precaution suggests the expediency of confiding it to hands above all suspicion.
We see that we have nothing to fear from the arms of France; all her skill, and energy, & Resentment, will nevertheless be employed to attain her Ends.
A Treaty liberal in Terms & Stipulations, tho’ neither shd. be performed nor observed would gain time, and go a great way to restore her injured credit.
The Election of President would return before the Efficacy and sincerity of the new Stipulations and Engagements could be experimentally ascertained! To give them any chance of Success they must be liberal to the utmost bounds of our Expectations.
Buona parte reached G. Cairo on the 22 July, but we are quite ignorant whether he was opposed by the Beys. It does not yet appear whether he will remain some time in Egypt in order to consolidate his Conquest & Authority over that Country, or proceed immediately by the Red Sea for India. We are without Details, or confirmation, of the victory which the french Papers of the 15. & 16 instant state to have been gained over the french fleet by Nelson. The news is on the whole highly probable, and the victory has according to these Reports been very decisive & glorious.
The war is about to recommence.
Yours &c

Col. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus King, [25 September 1798]
From: King, Rufus
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[London, September 25, 1798. Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Jay, 26 September 1798
From: Jay, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Albany 26. Sept. 1798
Dr. Sir

I take the Liberty of communicating to you a letter which I have this day written to the Presidt. of the U States. and in which I have enclosed a Copy of the Act lately passed for the further defence of this State. If you understand the act as I do, and concur in the measure submitted by that Letter to the Presidents consideration be pleased to seal and to send it to the Post Office. But if material objections should occur to you which have escaped me be so good as to return it with your remarks.
I am Dr. Sir

Majr. Genl. Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 30 September 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

New York September 30. 1798
My Dear Sir

Your obliging favour of the 24th instant has duly come to hand. I see in it a new proof of sentiments towards me which are truly gratifying. But permit me to add my request to the suggestion of your own prudence, that no personal considerations for me may induce more on your part than on mature reflection you may think due to public motives. It is extremely foreign to my wish to create to you the least embarrassment; especially in times like the present when it is more than ever necessary that the interest of the whole should be paramountly consulted.
I shall strictly comply with the recommendation in the close of your letter; remaining always your very respectful & affec servt

A Hamilton
General Washington


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Rufus King, 2 October 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: King, Rufus

N York Oct 2d. 1798
My Dear Sir

Mr. R—— delivered me your letter of the 31 of July. The opinion in that and other of your letters concerning a very important point has been acted upon by me from the very moment that it became unequivocal that we must have a decisive rupture with France. In some things my efforts succeeded, in others they were disappointed—in others I have had promises of conformity to lay the foundation of future proceeding the performance and effect of which promises are not certainly known to me. The effect indeed cannot yet be known.
The public mind of the Country continues to progress in the right direction. That must influence favourably the present Congress at the ensuing session. The next will be in all appearances intrinsically better.
Of the executive I need say little you know its excellent dispositions, its general character and the composition of its parts. You know also how widely different the business of Government is from the speculation of it, and the energy of the imagination, dealing in general propositions, from that of execution in detail.
There are causes from which delay and feebleness are experienced. But difficulties will be surmounted and I anticipate with you that the Country will ere long assume an attitude correspondent with its great destinies majestic efficient, and operative of great things. A noble carreer lies before it.
Why does not Gouverneur Morris come home? His talents are wanted. Men like him do not superabound. Indeed I wish that you were here rather than where you are, though I think your position an important one at the existing juncture. But we want to infuse more abilities into the management of our internal affairs.

Governor Jay is well. He & all your friends continue to take a lively interest in whatever concerns you.
Adieu   Yrs. Affectly

R King Esq


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 9 October 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York October 9. 1798

I thank you, My Dear Sir, for the prompt communication of the intelligence contained in your letter by yesterdays Post.
As to the Regulations (if as I suppose you mean) those for the tactics & discipline of the army—I must answer that hitherto I have done nothing more towards it than some preliminary readings & reflection. The undetermined situation, & the necessity of a close attention to my law business (which in such a state I could neither abandon nor diminish) has prevented my doing more in respect to the matter in question. It will henceforth engage my particular attention; but it ought not to be precipitated. My plan will suppose a different organisation of the troops & some previous legislative measures to precede its execution. Besides the present sistem must be essentially the basis of another & there is no urgency for a change. The course of the Winter will fulfill every useful idea—& allow time to digest well additions or innovations. To organise & to raise the army are the immediate desiderata.
I shall be ready to attend your call.
Yrs. affectly.

A Hamilton
J McH Esq

P.S. Young Rutlege, late Secy of General Pinckney, is himself desirous of going into the army but he cannot in propriety decide upon an application without the previous consent of his father whose permission he has asked. In the mean time I would suggest for your consideration the expediency of keeping open for him a Captaincy of Infantry. His connections & qualifications give him pretension to look to this. You will understand that he cannot now ask & may not perhaps be allowed to accept; so that whatever is done must be provisory. Adieu

AH


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 10 October 1798
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Trenton Octr. 10. 1798
Dear Sir
(Private)

At the close of the last week or on Monday of this, a Letter was recd. by the Secy of War from the President covering the Commissions of the Major Generals, dated on one day. This circumstance taken in connexion with others which preceeded, fully justify an opinion that the rank may [be] considered as settled in the order in which the appointments were made—of course that you are established in the rank of first Major General. I supposed till yesterday that the Commissions had been transmitted by Mr. Mc.Henry with an Official Letter settling the grade. I find however that our friend Mc.Henry still hesitates; I will however prevail on him to do this duty if I can. In the mean time permit me to say to you with confidence, that the affair which has caused so much doubt delay and perplexity, ought not in justice to be attributed entirely to the President. I will admit that he has been in my opinion greatly mistaken, the affair was however unfortunately managed and General Washington & the President have not been understood by each other.
The question of rank being settled, I sincerely hope that General Knox will decline service. His pencuniary affairs are I believe so embarrassed, that there is no prospect of his preserving his independence & I much fear, that the fortune of modern speculators, some loss of character, awaits him.
As a friend to your fame & the public Interest I cannot omit to request that no conversation may take place respecting the question of rank—even your personal feelings will be much alleviated by such an explanation as I will give you when we have the fortune to meet.
In the next place let me request, that as little may be done as possible relative to the organization of the Army, before there can be a deliberate consultation upon the state of our affairs. Depend upon it, that the arrangements of the War Department are all defective, and that nothing will succeed without a thorough reform. Besides do not countenence the plan for making appointments in the great Sections of our Country on the recommendations of individual officers. Though you may feel confidence in your own judgement, yet it will be well to remember that the same power, will be exercised by others who may not be equally well informed. If a few more mistakes are made, the service will be irretrievably ruined.
If I can do it without danger, I will call on you as I go on to Connecticut at the close of this month, when I will explain &c
I am Dr Sir, your obedt servt.

Oliv. Wolcott.
Alexander Hamilton Esq.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 11 October 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War Department11th October 1798
Dr Sir

As it may be attended with very great inconvenience to add any new buildings this season to the Barracks on Governors Island, or to add new ones on Bedlows, or Oyster Islands, to accomodate the men at present on two of these Islands, I submit to your decision, whether it would not be best, after retaining such a number of the troops as can be comfortably wintered at Governors Island, to remove the others to the Garrison at West Point where they can be accommodated, and may be in a situation to receive instructions and from whence they can be easily drawn at any time.
We shall then have the whole of next year before us to determine respecting the necessary permanent garrisons for the Islands, and, consequently, the necessary barracks required to be erected.
I am D Sir, your most obed Hle Serv

James McHenry
Majr. Genl. A. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Charles W. Goldsborough, 15 October 1798
From: Goldsborough, Charles W.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Trenton, October 15, 1798. On October 20, 1798, Hamilton wrote to Benjamin Stoddert: “I have received a letter from Mr. Goldsborough of the 15th.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 15 October 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War Department 15 Octbr. 1798
Sir

I have the honour to inclose your Commission as Major General in the army of the United States, and to request your attendance at Trenton or Philadelphia as soon as possible, and in all events by the 10th day of November next.
The object of this request is to obtain your advice and assistance in concert with General Knox, and perhaps General Washington, in forming preliminary arrangements relative to the army proposed to be raised, to be submitted to the President of the United States, and also to charge you especially with a branch of the military service.
With respect to the relative rank between you, Generals Pinckney and Knox, I deem it necessary to observe, that the order of nomination and approval by the Senate is considered as definitive.
With great respect I have the honor to be Sir   Your obt

James McHenry
Alexr Hamilton Es Major General


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 16 October 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

(Confidential)
Trenton 16 Octbr. 1798
My dear Hamilton.

You will see by the enclosed, the steps I have taken, and the information and the aid which I expect to derive from the Major Generals in case it is approved. I know not how all this is to end, and feel perfectly tired of the uncertainty in which so many important measures are kept fettered and involved.
I hope you will approve of this exposition, and the propriety of my fortifying or correcting my own opinions by those of the Generals.
Yours ever & affectionately

James McHenry


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 19 October 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

N York Oct 19. 1798
My Dear Sir

I received yesterday your private letter of the 16th, with its inclosures, now returned.

It was essential for you to take a decisive course & to leave the blame of further delay at some other door. There can be no doubt of the propriety of combining the aid of General Officers. But Pinckney being now arrived, it seems to me very proper & necessary that he also should be called upon. You will learn with pleasure that he sent me a message by young Rutlege purporting his intire satisfaction with the military arrangement & readiness to serve under my command. Communicate this to our friends Pickering & Wolcott, as I am not well enough to write them by this post.
Yrs. Affectly

A Hamilton
J M. Henry Esq


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 19 October 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York October 19. 1798
Sir

I was yesterday honourd with your letter transmitting my commission as Inspector and Major General.

Agreeably to your desire I hold myself prepared to attend you within the period you assign. But as the object appears to embrace a concert of advice and assistance with General Knox, who cannot be expected in much less than the utmost limit of the time pre[s]cribed, I shall permit myself to defer my journey so as to reach you about the first of November; unless I am told that an anticipation of that day is deemed requisite.
I cannot but observe with satisfaction the conclusion of your letter as to the relative rank of the three Major Generals.
I received at the same time your letter of the 11th instant—having been absent from the city for five days past. I shall to-day confer with Major Hoops & Col Stevens on the subject of it chiefly to ascertain the actual state of things, and by tomorrow’s post will communicate my Opinion.
With great respect & esteem   I have the honor to be   Sir Your Obedt Servant

Alexander Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 19 October 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York 19th Oct. 1798.
Sir

The state of my health and of the Weather yesterday and to day must prevent my communicating the result of the consultation intended to be had with the Gentlemen I mentioned in my letter of Yesterday.
I answer your inquiry Thus far according to the data which I previously possessed. It cannot be expedient to keep men on such of the Islands as the winter shall find without fortifications in a state to protect them and be useful. This as to Bidlams Island is now certainly not the case—nor do I know what is intended or can be done there before the coming on of winter. If it is contemplated to have till spring that Island in the state in which it now is the sooner the Troops there are Withdrawn the better, as to Ellis’s Island the case is different. The Works there may easily be in a state of defence and I think a little expence will complete the Requisite accomodations for a company.
Less than two can hardly be thought of for Governors Island—and for these with the accessories, some increase of barracks will it is imagined be necessary. Col. Stevens informed me some days since that a ⟨–⟩ barrack with six Rooms within the fort may be completed this season for 4,000 Dols. You are sure that this will not give all the accomodation which is permanently Requisite.
The conclusion is that in my opinion it will be expedient to add a building of that kind on Governors Island and to fit such as may already exist at Ellis’s Island for the accomodation of one company—keeping consequently one company there and two on Governors Island.
As to Bedlams supposing as I do that it will not be put in a defensible state this season it will be inexpedient to keep Troops there and equally so to build or Repair for their accomodation.
Let me suggest that it is always desirable when practicable to keep the Troops of each Regiment together or in close vicinity so as to be under the eye of their own Commanders to oversee the care and discipline of them—That consequently it will be well to have such troops as are kept in this quarter of one and not of different Regiments.
With respect & Esteem I have the honor to be sir   yr very Obedt servt.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Francisco de Miranda, [19 October–10 November 1798]
From: Miranda, Francisco de
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[London, October 19–November 10, 1798]

C’est avec bien du Plaisir, mon très cher Général, que j’ai reçu hier Votre Lettre du 22. aout dernier. Vos Souhaits sont déja en quelque Sorte remplis, puisque on est convenu ici que, d’un Coté, on n’employera point aux opérations terrestres des Troupes anglaises, vu que les forces auxiliares de Terre devront ètre uniquement américaines, tandis que, de l’autre, la Marine Sera purement anglaise. Tout est applani, et on attend Seulement le fiat de Votre illustre Président pour partir comme l’Eclair. En Effet, le moment parait des plus favorables, et les derniers Evenémens Semblent nous laisser un Champ Vaste et tranquille pour agir à notre entiére Satisfaction. Profiterons avec Sagesse de la Nature des Circonstances, et rendons à notre Pays le plus grand Service qu’un Mortel Soit capable d’offrir à ses Semblables! Sauvons l’amérique des Calamités affreuses qui, en bouleversant une grande partie du monde, menacent de la Déstruction les parties intactes encore.
Mon Compatriote D. Pedro Caro qui, effectivement, avait du être le Porteur de ma Lettre du 6. Avril dernier, n’a pas pu Se rendre alors à New-York, un Accident imprévu l’en ayant empêché; Il dirigea Sa Route en Droiture vers le Continent méridional de l’amérique, dont une partie, pressée de Secouer un Joug justement odieux, et ne voulant pas attendre plus longtems les Secours des Puissances Co-opératrices, se disposait alors à effectuer un Mouvement insurrectionnel qui, pour n’être que partiel, aurait pu nuire aux Intérèts de la Masse entiére. Heureusement qu’ils ont consenti à ajourner leurs Démarches. Les Renseignemens, que nous avons d’ailleurs Sur la Situation présente des Choses, Sont du plus heureux Augure. M. Caro repart dans ce moment ci pour la mème Destination par la Voie de l’Ile de la Trinité, afin que tout Soit disposé Conformément aux Plans arrètés, lesquels j’aurai l’honneur de Vous Soumettre à tems.
Je Vous prie de remettre la Lettre ci-jointe à notre ami Commun le Général Knox, dont la Nomination dans l’Armée me fait aussi le plus grand Plaisir. Continuez toujours, mon cher ami, d’ètre le Bienfacteur du Genre humain qui, jamais, n’a eu autant Besoin de tels Appuis. Réunissons nous tous bien fermement pour opérer le Salut de notre chére Patrie, et peut-ètre, qu’en l’arrachant aux Malheurs qui la menacent, nous Sauverons le Monde entier qui chancèle au Bord de l’Abîme.
à Vous bien sincerement

F. de Miranda.
Londres le 19. Octobre 1798.

P.S. Ayez la bonté d’offrir mes Respects au General Washington—dont la conduitte ferme, et Sage, attire dans ce moment les hommages de tout le monde; et doit contribuer essentiellement à Sauver notre pais.

à Londres ce 10 Nove. 1798.
Alexr. Hamilton, Esq:—&c. &c. &c.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus King, 20 October 1798
From: King, Rufus
To: Hamilton, Alexander

London Oct. 20. 1798
My dear sir

I have received your letter of the 22. of august with an inclosure that has been delivered as directed. On that subject, things are here, as we could desire: there will be precisely such a cooperation as we wish, the moment we are ready. The Secretary of State will shew you my communications on this Subject, tho’ I have not a word from him respecting it; your outline corresponds with what had been suggested by me, and approved by this Government—fortunately some months past I obtained a fac Simile of the latest map of the Country. It has been now two months in the Hands of an Engraver, who has engaged to deliver the Copies in January. This Government has considerable information respecting the interior, as well as concerning the condition and Dispositions of the Inhabitants, tho’ I apprehend it is not of a recent date. What we know is favorable; but if we are to be betrayed by France, the glorious opportunity will be lost. I am gratified in receiving your Opinion of the good condition of our public affairs, but I do not feel confident that we are as Safe as you appear to think we are. It is fraud not force that I fear. A Paris Paper of the 8th. instant which is the latest that takes any notice of the U. S. says, “les dernieres Lettres de Bourdeaux assurent qu’il y est arrivé un courier extraordinaire, porteur d’ordres pour remettre l’embargo sur les navires américains. Voilà donc la guerre inevitable avec ce peuple; de moins toutes nos correspondances coincident avec ce bruit.”
Yrs

K

P:S: As I presume from your present connection with the Government that you are acquainted with ⟨all the⟩ information possessed by it ⟨I need⟩ not say any thing to you upon ⟨these⟩ Subjects that I should otherwise ⟨think⟩ of. Another reason, we have no cy⟨pher. It⟩ may be advantageous that we should establish one. Genl. Schuyler invented a most excellent cipher, & I wish you would send it to me by the Packet or other safe conveyance, preserving the counter part.

K.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 22 October 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War Department22 October 1798.
Sir

I have been favored with your letter of the 19th instant.
You will see by the enclosed copy of a letter to Colo Stevens dated 21st of august the instructions which respect the fortifications on Governors, Bedlows and Ellis’s Islands.
In conformity with your opinion I have directed Col Stevens to contract for the necessary additional barracks on Governors Island, and to have such buildings as already exist on Ellis’s Island fitted up for the immediate accommodation of a company and the works put in a state of defence as speedily as possible agreeably to my instructions contained in the letter enclosed.
With respect and esteem   I have the honor to be Dr Genl.   Your most obd Hb St

James McHenry
Major Genl A Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Jay, 24 October 1798
From: Jay, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Albany 24 Octr. 1798
Dear Sir

I subjoin for your Information a copy of a Letter of the 17 Instant which I recd. this morning from the Presidt. of the U.S. in answer to mine of the 26 ult. by which he consents to authorize you to concert with me the plan of laying out the money in question to the best advantage, & to appoint you to superintend the Execution of it.
Will it not be proper immediately to form an accurate Survey of such parts of the Shores & waters of the port, as from their Situation or other Circumstances, it may be desireable to fortify? Col. Burr informs me that this has already been partially done by Mr. Coles; & I submit to your Consideration whether it would not be adviseable to confer with them respecting, and perhaps obtain their aid in executing the measures proper to be taken to perfect that necessary work.
That being done, I conceive the next object of Inquiry will be, the manner in which the port is capable of being the most effectually fortified. The Result I think should then be laid before the President, thro’ the Secy at War, and our future operations will necessarily depend greatly on what he may direct to be communicated to us on the Subject. I wish all this may be done and ascertained before the next Session of our Legislature; that my Communications to them may be full and early. The Expence incident to the orders which you may give for these purposes, will of Course be paid; for it gives me pleasure now to consider you as being perfectly authorized to superintend the Fortifications contemplated by the act.
I purpose to be in Town next month, and am with great Esteem & Regard
Dear Sir   your most obt. Servt

John Jay
Majr. Genl. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Skey Eustace, [27 October 1798]
From: Eustace, John Skey
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, October 27, 1798]
Sir,

As I find myself obliged to make a voyage to Georgia, where some important concerns demand my attention, I have a favor to ask of you—it is simply that you will permit me to depose in your care (and to offer you as a humble legacy, if I do not return) a trunk containing all my papers, as well personal as official.
Though it has so happened, that nothing like private friendship or confidence could ever exist between us (I allude to the untoward circumstance of our attachment to Chiefs who were at variance) yet I am not sensible that any action of my life could justify your aversion for I can truly declare, not only that Colonel Hamilton has ever possessed my esteem, but my good will and good wishes—I should say very much more were I not addressing him personally—so that I auger no censure from him on the object or terms of this letter. When you reflect, Sir, on the boyish period of my life, 1775, when general Lee first won my esteem, neither its force or direction can excite reproach. If you consider that I was then the heir-declared of his fortune, and that I formally disclaimed, four years thereafter, this proffered boon (and this shall be proved to you) from motives of patriotic submission to the Commander in Chief; when you combine with these facts, the successive assaults on my family rights at home; a long residence abroad; a dangerous service in France, and an unmerited check to my fortune in the rival State; if, Sir, you take the trouble to cast a comprehensive glance over these various and coefficient causes of irritation, whatever warmth of character I may, at any time ⟨have displayed⟩ in my public and ingenious opinions of men or measures here, will deserve your commiseration, rather than provoke your censure. I may cite the late example of Mr. Jay, who receivd and visited me with friendship, nay affection, under a due impression of these facts.
My present efforts being wholly destined to solace the aged and parental members of my family, you will be assured, Sir, that it is not to the influential general Hamilton, but to the private Citizen that I address myself. From the first I cannot honorably receive or patronage or favor, because I feel that I do not deserve either: On the legal talents and personal sympathy of Mr. Hamilton I consider that I have a collateral claim with my uncle, whose cause he has generously consented to advocate—and under this alone shall I offer a tribute of grateful attachment. And here I am called on to relate an anecdote which cannot displease you, whilst it is a debt I owe to the candor and friendship of Mr. Brockholst Livingston.
I called on this gentleman, after your return from Philadelphia, to consult with him on the expediency of resorting to the Court of Errors in the case of my uncle. I told him that I felt less restraint in conferring with him than with Colonel Hamilton, because I had never been acquainted with him; and, under existing circumstances, might not be well received: besides, that I had a rooted aversion to appearing at the levee of any man, who had places or pensions at his disposal. His reply was exactly in these words. “It is a duty you owe to your uncle, to yourself, and above all to colonel Hamilton, to pay him a respectful and confidential visit. He is indisputably the most distinguished member of our Bar; he has generously protected general Campbells claim; he has, therefore, an undoubted right to every mark of gratitude from you—nor will he misinterpret the object of your visit. It is true, there is no man in this country who so strongly unites the power with the wish to patronize every citizen who has a just title to his friendship or humanity; yet, he must think, however disinterested his general motives, that some testimony of this sort is due from those whom he has so essentially servd. Do me, therefore, the favor to wait on him and refer to me for a professional consultation on general Campbell’s affairs.”
This communication, Sir, needs no commentary and will serve to account for the two visits I made to you. To the governor alone have I made any other—and, except Mr. Livingston’s, I have not had one, of consequence, to repay!
Thus, Sir, you are presented with a full detail of my private conduct since my return. As it is wholly negative, you must feel that [it] is exhibited not to secure your esteem, but to shew that I have done nothing which can prove ⟨an⟩ obstacle to the attainment; you will therefore accept the sincere assurance of my respectful and grateful attachment.

J. S. Eustace
New York 27. Oct 179880, Barclay Street

Will you have the goodness to tell me, how I can best dispose of the Papers relative to Mr. Monroe’s imbassy? and in what manner I can most properly attest their authenticity?


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Adams, 29 October 1798
From: Adams, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Quincy [Massachusetts] October 29. 1798
Sir

I have received the Letter you did me the Honor to write me on the 20th and am glad to have had the opportunity of consenting to the Appointment of Officers who will do so much Credit in their Stations to the service as I believe Captain Church and Lieutenant Hamilton will do in theirs.
I have recd from Hauteval a Packet of Addresses, one of which is inclosed. I dont think them of consequence enough to Suppress them.
I have the Honor to be, Sir   your most obedient & humble servant

John Adams
General Alexander Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Adams, 29 October 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adams, John

New York October 29. 1798
Sir

I shall with pleasure obey the command contained in your letter of the 17th instant and shall accordingly inform the Governor that I am ready to proceed in the execution of the measure.
With perfect respect & esteem I have the honor to be Sir Yr obed servant

A Hamilton
The President of The U States


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Jay, 29 October 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jay, John

New York October 29th 1798
Sir

I received this day a letter from the President of the United States, requesting me to concert with you the plan, & to superintend the execution of it, for giving effect to the Act of the Legislature of this state for the further Defence of this state and for other purposes. This I am accordingly ready to do, whenever you shall be pleased to require it.
With very great respect & esteem I have the honor to be   Yr Excelys Most Obed ser

A Hamilton
Governor Jay


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 29 October 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

New York Oct 29. 1798
Dear Sir

Some ill health in my family, now at an end as I hope, interfered with an earlier acknowlegement of your favour of the 21st instant. The contents cannot but be gratifying to me.
It is my intention, if not prevented by further ill health in my family, to proceed on the first of November to Trenton. My aid to the Secretary to the full extent of what he shall permit me to afford will not be withheld. But every day brings fresh room to apprehend that whatever may be the props the administration of the war department cannot prosper in the present very well disposed but very unqualified hands.

Most respectfully & affecty   I have the honor to remain Dr. Sir   Yr obliged & obet servant

A Hamilton
General Washington

PS   I had forgotten to say that General Pinckney has given proof of a cordial satisfaction with the Military arrangement.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Rufus King, 1 November 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: King, Rufus

New York November 1. 1798
My Dear Sir

This will be delivered to you by Mr. Bruce, son of the Widow Bruce, both of whom you will no doubt recollect and that they are connections of our family. He goes to Europe to complete his studies in Medecine. Doctors Bard & Hosack with whom he has pursued them here speak handsomely of his qualifications & progress. He visits London in the first instance. Permit me to recommend him to your kindness. I have every reason to believe he is discreet intelligent and deserving.
I intend if I can to write you another letter by this opportunity—but lest I should be disappointed, I take occasion to assure of a careful attention to the private concern mentioned in one of your latest letters. Every thing that I know tends to your security & tranquillity in this respect.
Yrs. truly & affecy

A Hamilton
Rufus King Esq


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Skey Eustace, [3 November 1798]
From: Eustace, John Skey
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Saturday Morning [New York, November 3, 1798]

Mr Eustace presents his compliments to general Hamilton, and sends him the packet for Col. P, which he permitted to be forwarded in this Way. The cover is left open, and the note on the first blank leaf of the book will serve as an advertisement; so that the general, in running over its contents, probably may be tempted (as he will certainly be enabled) to enforce some of the inferences, hastily drawn by the writer from the facts held forth—by a note or two on a separate paper, simply marked by a number indicative of the page it belongs to. This will be gratefully acknowledged; if therefore the general will peruse the private letter to Col. P. (sent some days ago) and join his influence to the writer’s entreaties for the adoption of the Queries contained in the printed letter (already forwarded) E. ventures to think much good may result to the Country. At any rate, if it is no more than threatened, as a future scourge of Gallicanism among us, even thus, in terrorem, no small advantage will accrue.
Mr. Eustace sincerely wishes general Hamilton a prompt apparition in the field of inspection—as this includes the great objects of personal and national concern and provides for that ample store of health which can alone produce this salutary effect, it is unnecessary to detail the compliments of usual salutation and validiction.
As the wish to serve as the extra aid-de-camp of general Hamilton was not officially conveyed, general Eustace now makes it a request, and would thank general Hamilton to accept his services, if they can be useful.

Major General Hamilton.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Adam Hoops, 5 November 1798
From: Hoops, Adam
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, November 5, 1798. “Inclosed are two letters: one from Captain Frye Stationed at Governors Island describing the Cloathing & accoutrements furnished to his men and the Other from Doctor Dwight … stating certain particulars relative to the Troops on Bedloes Islands.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Jay, 5 November 1798
From: Jay, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Albany 5 Novr. 1798
Dear Sir

On the 24 ult. I had the pleasure of writing to you on the Subject of fortifying the port of New York, and the measures preparatory to a Plan for it. Presuming that it has come to your Hands, it will only be necessary for me to inform you, that pursuant to an Intimation contained in it, I shall provide for the Expenses of perfecting the Survey, by immediately writing to Genl. Clarkson, and enclosing to him an order on the Bank of New York for five hundred Dollars to be applied towards that object.
An unexpected and painful Complaint (the Piles) will render the Time of my being at New York uncertain. I had intended to have set out this week for Bedford and Rye, and to have gone on from the latter place to N York, but at present I must postpone it.
When the Survey is finished, and all such Information as you deem requisite shall be obtained, it would in my opinion be adviseable that you should consult with Genl. Clarkson Col. Burr and Col. Stevens, and such others as you may think proper, as to the Plan which ought to result.
Fortification being an art to which my attention has not been turned, I must rely less on my own Judgment than on that of those to whom the Subject is familiar—my absence therefore ought not to occasion Delay.
I am Dr. Sir with great Esteem and Regard   your most obt. Servt

John Jay
Majr. Genl. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus King, [5 November 1798]
From: King, Rufus
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[London, November 5, 1798. Letter not found.]