Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Skinner, 5 October 1790
From: Skinner, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Edenton, North Carolina, October 5, 1790. “Your favor of the 31st. of August last, accompanied by one from The Honble Mr. Jefferson, inclosing the commission for my appointment as Commissioner of the Loan Office in this State, I had the honor of receiving the 23d. of September. In your letter you are pleased to say, ‘That during the reception of the subscriptions to the Loan, which is to be made in the certificates of the State Debts, it will be necessary for the public safety, that I reside at the place where the checks relative to the Debt of this State are deposited.’ It is with the greatest diffidence that I attempt to offer my opinion, or to make any observations respecting the matter, but I flatter myself in so doing I shall give no offence.… You will pardon me for observing, that holding the office continguous to the Treasury office of this State, will be attended with some very material disadvantages, it being nearly two hundred miles distant from the post road, and any orders or instructions from the Treasury Department could not be received at that place in less than two months, and all returns from the Loan office must be sent by express that distance to a post office, at the expence of the office.… Upon the whole, if the temporary residence of the Loan officer is to be at, or contiguous to where the Treasury Office of this State is, and at the end of one year subject to a removal, and perhaps to a place remote from me it will be attended with so many disadvantages that I must decline accepting the appointment.…”


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Commissioners of Loans, 6 October 1790
From: Treasury Department,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commissioners of Loans

Treasury DepartmentOctober 6th 1790
Sir
The alteration of one of the proposed instructions for conducting your Office rendered an addition of a Column for Certificates of the Register of the Treasury necessary in the form M. It was however overlooked. You will therefore determine whether either of the two Columns for Certificates issued by State Commissioners intended for those States wherein there have been two is unnecessary in your Office by reason of their having been but one—or whether either of the Columns for Specie Certificates per the Acts of 1780 & 1786 is rendered useless by reason of none of either kind having been issued. Should any one of those Columns be found from either of the causes mentioned to be unnecessary it may be appropriated to the Certificates of the Register of the Treasury; otherwise a Column for them will be to be added.
I am Sir   with respect   Your Obedient Servant
Alexander Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 6 October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury Departmt. Oct: 6th. 1790.
sir
I have received from Nathl. Gilman Esquire the Commissioner of Loans for New-Hampshire, a letter of the 27th. September informing me, that he has transmitted his commission to you, with a resignation of his Office. I beg leave on this occasion to call to your mind the name of Woodbury Langdon Esquire, who from my recollection of circumstances, and from the result of my enquiries to day, appears to be a suitable person to execute this duty, should none more proper be at this time before you. The situation and nature of the office render as early an appointment, as you may deem proper, of consequence to the public interests and individual convenience.
I have the honor to be with the highest respect, sir, Your mo: Obedient & most hble servant
Alexander Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Daves, 7 October 1790
From: Daves, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New Bern, North Carolina, October 7, 1790. On December 13, 1790, Hamilton wrote to Daves: “I learn from your letter of the 7th. of October.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Ellery, 7 October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Ellery, William

Treasury Department, October 7th 1790
Sir
My letter of the 27th of Septr to you proceeded on the supposition that the duty of Tonnage mentioned by you under the denomination of light money was for the purpose of supporting the lighthouse establishments in your state and consequently distinct from that imposed by the Act entitled “An Act to incorporate certain persons by the name of the River machine Company in the Town of Providence and for other purposes therein mentioned” to the operation of which act untill the tenth day of January next, Congress have declared their consent, by the Act of which the inclosed is a copy. It has since occurred to me that there may possibly have been some misapprehension, and that the duty in question may be the same to which that consent relates in which case the conclusion will of course be different, and that duty must continue to be collected untill the said tenth day of January.
In the hurry of expediting the Letter above mentioned it did not occur to me that there is in the last clause of the 10th Section of the first Article of the constitution of the United States an express prohibition to the Individual States, against laying a duty of Tonnage without the consent of Congress.
I am with great consideration   Sir   Your obedt Servt
Alexander Hamilton
Wm. Ellery EsqrCollector of the CustomsProvidence


Title: Notice of Removal from New York City, [7 October 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[New York, October 7, 1790]
AS the Subscriber expects to remove from this city by the 20th inst. he requests all those who may have any demands against him, to present them previous to that day, in order to their being discharged.
New-York, Wall street, No. 58,Oct. 7, 1790.
Alexander Hamilton.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Samuel Osgood, 7 October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Osgood, Samuel

[New York, October 7, 1790. On October 11, 1790, Osgood wrote to Hamilton: “I have received your favor of the 7th. Instant.” Letter not found.]


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Commissioners of Loans, 7 October 1790
From: Treasury Department,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commissioners of Loans

Treasury DepartmentOctober 7th 1790
Sir
It is necessary to inform you that the late Loan Officers Certificates for Interest due on the public Debt are to be received only at the New Loan Office for the State wherein such Interest Certificates were issued. The Certificates contemplated, are those given in lieu of the Indents or facilities signed by M. Hillegas Josh. Hardy or Henry Kuhl.
As there will probably be presented to you forged (or altered) Certificates of the public Debt, I request that after having examined and ascertained as well as may be possible, the original number, payee, amount &ca. of such altered Certificates, by the Checks & Registers in your Office, you will transmit the same to the Treasury. Should any new or considerable forgeries or Counterfiets appear, every information you can give me will be desireable & that early.
You will after the receipt hereof transmit to the Auditor of the Treasury under cover to me all Certificates which you are directed by my letters to send to the Treasury.
I am Sir   Your Obedient Servant
Alex Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 8 October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury Departmt. Oct: 8th. 1790.
sir
I do myself the honor to inform you, that the result of my enquiries concerning the character of Capt: Jonathan Maltbee, is, that he is a man of fair character and an experienced & good Seaman, who might be expected to execute his duty faithfully as the Commander of a revenue Cutter. I do not learn however, that either he or Capt. Law are remarkable for their activity. The principal point of preference which appears to exist in regard to these two gentlemen is, that Capt. Law has had better opportunities of education than Capt. Maltbee.
Benjamin Harrison junior Esqr. of Richmond, is the only person here, from whom I can obtain information concerning the two applicants for the office of Surveyor of that port. He gives a decided preference to Mr. Hague, grounded upon his personal knowledge of him, and his deportment in a similar Office under the State of Virginia. He however is of opinion, that Mr. Hague would not relinquish trade for the emoluments of the post in question. The appointment of a trading person of any description, to a place in the Customs has been generally avoided, and I beg leave to observe not without sufficient reason. Mr. Harrison seems to think, that Mr. Rowland has not all the qualities that are to be desired in such an officer, yet doubts whether the emoluments of the Office would induce an acceptance of it by a more suitable person. He added, that the exactness of the Collector of that District would operate to produce a conduct in Mr. Rowland, which might not take place under a superior of a different character, in which opinion I concur with him. If therefore some more suitable person has not been brought before you since the date of your last communication, I humbly conceive, there is little probability, that a more eligible character will be presented to your choice.
As the papers relative to the several objects, about which your letter of the 27th. ultimo instructs me to enquire, may be requisite at the time of your determination on the Cases, I transmit them in this inclosure.
I have the honor to be with the highest respect, Sir, Your most Obedient & most huml. Servant
Alexander Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Richard Harison, [9 October 1790]
From: Harison, Richard
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, October 9, 1790]
The Question proposed to me by the Secretary of the Treasury respecting Loss sustained by Robbery from public Officers during the late War, has been maturely considered, and I am of Opinion that the Officers are not chargeable on that Account unless Negligence can be imputed to them.
9 Octr. 1790


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Wheelock, 9 October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wheelock, John

New York October 9th. 1790
Sir
I did not receive, ’till three days since, the letter which you did me the favour to write me of the 27th of August.
I accept with great pleasure the honor done me by the institution over which you preside. The motive to it, which on the part of the Trustees, you announce in terms so obliging, claims my particular acknowlegements. If my endeavours to promote the public good are worth any thing, the best reward, they can receive, is the approbation of the considerate and wise.
Under this impression, I beg you, Sir, to assure the Trustees of the high sense I entertain of this flattering mark of their attention, and of my most cordial wishes for the prosperity of the institution under their direction.
I have the honor to be very respectfully    Sir   Your most Obedient & humble servant
Alexander Hamilton
The Reverend J Wheelock


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Whipple, 9 October 1790
From: Whipple, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Portsmo. New Hamp Octo. 9. 1790
Sir
I had the honor to receive in due course your letter of the 10th Ulto & now enclose you a list of Persons suitable for Officers for One of the Revenue Cutters. Those mentiond for master and first maite have many years commanded Ships and are on accot. of their federal Sentiments & attachments to government as well as other considerations in my opinion the best qualified of any persons in this quarter for the places to which they are respectively named. There is some uncertainty as to the Acceptance of the places of the persons named in this list. Several of them are absent and were they present a consultation with them on the subject considering the uncertainty of their appointment & at a distant period would not probably procure from them decisive answers.
Without a more particular description of a Vessel to be built than giving the length of Keel, it would be difficult to estimate the cost with any degree of Accuracy. A Vessel of 45 to 50 feet Keel would cost more than an equal proportion of the Sum appropriatd for 10 Vessels, shoud that No. be built within the Sum limitted. At a rough estimate I find that a Schooner of 40 feet Keel, payable according to Carpenters tonnage well equpd would cost 800 or 900 Dolls. The Hull would cost from 8 to 10 Doll. P ton—the cost of materials for rigging &c would depend on the manner of equpping.
This answer to your letter has been delayed for the return home of an emminent Ship builder (still absent) by whose assistance I intended to furnish drafts & estimates of the Cost of Several Vessels of different lengths from 35 to 50 feet for your inspection & which I will procure shortly and forward. I am perswaded that a Cutter could be built & equpped here on as good terms & equal in quality to the best in the Country.
I am informed that the Loan officer appointed for this State hath declined to accept the appointment; or hath resigned it. Conceiving that the public business required to be transacted in that office would Suffer from the delay arising from this circumstance—I take the liberty to Name a Gentleman  as possessing talents suitable for that office & equal to any person known to me in this quarter or in the United States.
I am Sir very respectfully &c
Hon. Alex. Hamilton Esqr.

  List of Officers

  Master

  1 Mate

  John Flagg
  2 Mate

  John Parrot
  3 Mate


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Charles Lee, 10 October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lee, Charles

Treasury Department, October 10, 1790. “The purchase of a Boat such as is generally described in your letter of the 25th Ulto. has been authorized in some of the Districts & I have no objection to your procuring one for the Port of Alexandria.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Morgan Lewis, 10 October 1790
From: Lewis, Morgan
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Rhinebeck [New York] October 10, 1790. “I have delayed answering your obliging and friendly Letter.… The Arrangement of Commissioners, I am satisfied is as it should be. There is an affinity between the present and former Offices which I did not sufficiently advert to. I assure you, I had no wish to interfere with the Gentleman you allude to; he never once occurred to me, nor was the Appointment the main Object of my Letter. I thought it a Duty I owed your Friendship to acquaint you with Measures which I had every Reason to believe had been adopted by Persons unfriendly to you and your Plans. You may doubt my Sincerity, but I declare I have neither Motive, or Wish to deceive you. The Situation of my public Accounts lies heavy on my Spirits; and I am anxious to know if Mr. Woolcot has taken the Opinion of the Attorney General. I feel a Delicacy in writing to you upon this Subject because I am doubtful of its Propriety. Yet I know not how otherwise to be informed. I have repeatedly applied to my Relations in Town upon the Occasion, but they are so absorbed in Speculation that I cannot prevail on them even to answer my Letters. If it will not interfere with your Business, you will confer on me a new Obligation, by acquainting me with the real state of this disagreable, tho to me, important affair.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Smith, 10 October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Smith, Thomas

[New York, October 10, 1790. Letter listed in dealer’s catalogue. Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 10 October 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Private
Mount Vernon Octr. 10th. 1790
Dear Sir,

Your letter of the 30th. Ulto came duly to hand with its enclosures. For the information contained in it I thank you, as I shall do for all others of a similar nature.
The motives, however, by which the Author of the communication to you was actuated, although they may have been pure and in that case praiseworthy, do also (but it may be uncharitable to harbour the suspicion) admit of a different interpretation and that by an easy and pretty direct clew.
We are approaching the first Monday in December by hasty strides; I pray you therefore to revolve in your mind not only such matters (if there be any) as may be proper for me to lay before Congress in your own Department, but such others of a general nature as may happen to occur to you, that I may be prepared to open the Session with such communications as shall appear to merit attention.
With sincere regard   I am Dear Sir   Your Affectionate Servt
Go: Washington
Alexr. Hamilton Esqr.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Samuel Osgood, 11 October 1790
From: Osgood, Samuel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

General Post OfficeNew York Octor. 11th. 1790.
Sir
I have received your favor of the 7th. Instant; & as it appears to me very proper that the Dispatches which you mention should be forwarded to the several Loan Officers free of Postage, I have accordingly ordered the Postmaster at Philadelphia not to charge any on the same.
I am Sir   &ca.


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Commissioners of Loans, 11 October 1790
From: Treasury Department,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commissioners of Loans

Treasury DepartmentOctober 11th 1790
Sir,
I find there are some certificates for interest issued in lieu of “Indents of Interest” in the State of Georgia, which express that they are for as many Dollars (as by recurrence to the records of the principal Certificates) would have been the Interest, if those certificates had been for specie, although they are liable to liquidation, at various rates according to their dates. I think it necessary, to give this intimation to the several Commissioners of Loans, in order that they may be upon their guard, if any such substituted paper shall have been issued under like circumstances by them. I do not however mean to extend this caution to such of those certificates (if any) as may have been issued for Interest on the Loan Office Certificates granted prior to the first day of March 1778, in respect to which, the resolution of Congress of the 28th of June 1780 is understood to require the payment of Interest on the nominal Sum.
I am, Sir,   Your Obedt. Servt
A Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 12 October 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Mount-Vernon October 12th. 1790.
Sir,
I have received your letter of the 5th instant. The public service requiring the arrangements, which you have made, relative to the Light Houses of Newport and Portland, they are perfectly agreeable to me, and receive my approbation.
I am, Sir   Your most obedient Servant
Go. Washington
Alexander Hamilton EsquireSecretary of the Treasury of the United States.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Webb, 12 October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Webb, William

Treasury Department, October 12, 1790. “You have my Authority to purchase Scales for the use of your Office.…”


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Commissioners of Loans, 13 October 1790
From: Treasury Department,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commissioners of Loans

Treasury Department Octr. 13. 1790
Sir
I find from a letter from one of the Commissioner of Loans that it is conceived, certificates of the state debts cannot be subscribed to the new Loan, unless they express that they are issued for services or supplies toward the prosecution of the late war.
By this construction all certificates containing a simple acknowlegment of debt to a certain amount, and all certificates for monies loaned to the States would be excluded, which is not the intent and meaning of the law. If a certificate of any state shall be offered and it shall not appear by the tenor of it, or if it cannot be ascertained from any public record act or document, to have been issued for some purpose, other than compensations and expenditures for services or supplies towards the prosecution of the late war and the defence of the United States or some part thereof during the said war, it is consistent with the direction of the law to receive it in loan.
I am sir,   Your Obedt. servant
A Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 13 October 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Mount Vernon Oct: 13th. 1790
Sir,
The enclosed letter, addressed to me by the Baron Perin, treating of a subject to which I am a stranger, and the means of information not being within my reach; I have to request that you will cause such enquiry to be made into the Circumstances therein stated as may enable you to give him an answer. And I wish you to transmit my letter to him with yours.
I am sir   Yr. most Obt. servt.
G. Washington


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Abishai Thomas, 14 October 1790
From: Thomas, Abishai
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, October 14, 1790. Recommends “a Sea faring gentleman of my acquaintance in North Carolina … Captain William McDaniel of Washington” for command of a revenue cutter.


Title: Conversation with George Beckwith, [15–20 October 1790]
From: Beckwith, George,Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[New York, October 15–20, 1790]
Mr. _____ I have read the determination of the National Assembly of France of the 25th. of August, respecting the Family Compact, their cordial support of Spain seems at present very questionable.
I cannot help thinking that the friendship of this country is not unimportant to you, even at present, and it will become infinitely more so; the resources of France and of Spain if well administered are very great, and the securing the good will and the affection of the States may have political weight; I speak with great delicacy certainly of what ought to be your policy with regard to us, from my natural bias in favor of this country, but I am inclined to believe that it might be an advantageous measure for you to Open your West India islands to us under certain limitations at the commencement of a War; it would afford you a cheap and a very plentiful supply: I only throw out this idea as it strikes me, and it might take place for a short time as a mere matter of experiment.
Major Beckwith. I imagine the possession of New Orleans would be of great importance to you?
Mr. _____ The rapid increase of our Western country is such, that we must possess this outlet, in a very short space of time, whatever individual interests may be opposed to it, the general advantage of the States points it out most evidently.
Major Beckwith. I cannot help thinking, that it Would be greatly for the benefit of your Western territory if you were to conclude a just and honorable peace with the savages within your limits, in a contest between you and them I am inclined to believe you have more to lose than they have?
Mr. _____ It is consistent with our system to terminate Indian differences by accommodation, in the present instance General St. Clair “the governor of our Western country” had made many arrangements and matters had gone such a length, that we could not put a negative upon this business without disobliging our Western people; one tribe has some causes of complaint, the others have not; it is somewhat late in the season and possibly the present expeditions will have no great effect, but they will Mark the disposition of our government; “exclusive of the regular troops” the Militia is numerous, and the prospect of an early Campaign next year may make some impression; General Clarke of Virginia tells me the Indians in that part of the world are in the practice of burying their grain to conceal it from an enemy, and that they effect this with much address, consequently very usually with success.
Major Beckwith. We have now a probability of a Spanish war, and a possibility of a French one, I trust it will not interrupt our tranquility with you?
Mr. _____ It is the determination of all the gentlemen who take a leading Part in the affairs of this country to preserve an honorable attention to their engagements with foreign powers, I speak to you on this head merely the opinions of an individual; it does not appear to me from the present condition of things, that we shall consider it to be encumbent upon us, to take any part with France in a contest in which she is altogether an auxiliary, it will be for our consideration whether we ought not to avail ourselves of the period in which Spain shall be involved in a war, to secure those points which are in contest between us and that power; things may change, but as they are circumstanced at present, we are in my opinion perfectly at liberty to follow up our own interest, and certain Matters have occurred since the peace, which leave us altogether free with respect to France even if she should go to war as a principal: I think it proper also on this occasion, to declare positively and directly, that no treaty, stimpulation, or agreement of any sort subsists between us and France, excepting the public printed treaty universally known.
Major Beckwith. I trust the judicial branch of your government will apply an effectual remedy to those complaints made by our Merchants against the laws passed since the peace, especially in the southern States, which impede the ordinary course of justice between debtors and creditors?

Mr. _____ I have the most perfect confidence That this will be the case; by our constitution treaties with foreign powers are to be considered by our courts of justice as the law of the land; the judges in general are men whose opinions on this subject are perfectly well ascertained, and nothing but an insurrection in opposition to their decisions can in future prevent the regular and usual course of justice; I admit that individual losses have arisen from the delays hitherto too often practiced, these are not to the extent commonly represented, taken in the general, however prejudicial to individuals, and such proceedings are by no means defensible.
By various communications made to me as well from the Eastern as from the Southern States, our government acquires daily strength and consistence in the public mind, it is found to produce many beneficial effects to the Nation at large; I am persuaded when our Census is completed we shall have at least three Millions and a half of people, at this time we are capable of making considerable exertions, even Maritime ones, if from circumstances it became a measure of government to encourage them, and I must beg leave to repeat its being my opinion, that looking forward particularly to what may be the expected condition of this country in a few years, it would be an Act of Wisdom in the Minister of Great-Britain to attach and connect the States upon political as well as commercial considerations.
It seems proper to mention to you at this time, that last Summer it was intended to Have written to Lord Dorchester on the subject of our eastern boundary with your provinces, for which purpose directions had been given to the Secretary of State, but the matter was put off, from the expectation that his Lordship would have been here before this time.
Major Beckwith. You are going to remove in a few days to Philadelphia; if any thing should happen that I might wish to communicate to you, can you point out a mode of my doing it by letter?
Mr. _____ That would be precarious, there seems a necessity for my seeing you.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 15 October 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Mount Vernon Octr. 15th. 1790
Sir
You will perceive by the letter which is enclosed for your transmission of it to Mr. Woodbury Langdon, that I have appointed him Commissioner of Loans in the room of Mr. Gilman, whose resignation I received by the last post.
I am, Sir,   Your Obt. Servant
G: Washington


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Otho H. Williams, 15 October 1790
From: Williams, Otho H.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Baltimore, October 15, 1790. “The forms generally adopted by me in executing the Laws of this State and of Congress, were made conformably thereto; and as these laws have been frequently altered—particularly the state Laws, I have not many blanks now by me that will be of use in devising forms for the business of the Custom House, under the present System. Inclosed, with this letter, you will receive a number of blanks, some old, and some new, which are forwarded in compliance With your letter of the 30th (September) ulto.… I have to inform you that none of the Masters of American Vessels have complied with the law respecting Manifests of their Cargo which by the 16 section of the Collection Law it is presumed they are ‘required to have on board at the time of departure from foreign ports’—But which by the previous section 9. are only required to be ‘on board’ and ‘in writing, signed by the masters’ &c when brought into the United States.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Isaac Sherman, 16 October 1790
From: Sherman, Isaac
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, October 16, 1790. “Were there any other way, or were it possible to clear myself of my present embarrassment without your aid, I would not give you this trouble. One hundred dollars would pay all my existing debts; but where to obtain them, I know not. My having been sued and harassed since I arrived in this City have caused great anxiety to my mind, and called my attention from duty. Could you with propriety, and without too great an inconvenience to yourself loan me the above mentioned sum, I should feel an additional obligation.… The Sum which I have received from the public since I have been under your immediate orders has been incompetent, even with the strictest œconomy to afford a support, and pay a debt of 150 dollars (which was the sum I owed when I arrived in New-York.) I have with candour communicated to you my circumstances. Should you indulge me with a continuance in your office to the completion of the present quarter, with the aid that I shall receive from my Father when he shall come to Congress in Philadelphia, I presume, will place it in my power to pay you, should you indulge my request. He directs me in a letter which I received yesterday, to present his respectful compliments to you.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Skinner, 19 October 1790
From: Skinner, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Edenton] North Carolina, October 19, 1790. “Since my last, I have had the honor of receiving yours circular of the 16th. Ulto. accompanied with sundry forms intended for the use of my office, as also three books from the Register of the Treasury, containing three hundred sheets of certificates for which a duplicate receipt is herewith inclosed. The other duplicate I shall forward by the next weeks post. Agreeable to your request I have made a short abstract of the returns of certificates issued by different Commissioners and remain in my office at this time. The abstract I also herewith inclose, to which I refer you. Being just favoured with a line of approbation from the attorney of the Federal Court respecting my securities, and although there may appear some inconsistency in my conduct, as by my last I rather seemed inclined not to accept the appointment incumbered as it then appeared to be; but as my securities are approved of, and I am importuned by many respectable characters not to decline, I shall therefore execute my bond & send on by post. My being refused the checks will retard the business of my Office for some time, as the Legislature of this State don’t meet untill the first day of November, at which time, shall make application, for a resolve to pass for the delivery of them to me for the use of my Office. There is no doubt but this will be immediately granted me, I shall then open my Office in Edenton, when every difficulty will be obviated with respect to any orders from the Treasury Department, as well as the returns of the Loan Officer.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Joy, 20 October 1790
From: Joy, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[October 20, 1790. On October 16, 1791, Joy wrote to Hamilton concerning “my Letter 20th. Octr. 1790.” Letter not found.]


Title: Receipt from James Robinson, [20 October 1790]
From: Robinson, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, October 20, 1790]
Reced in Newyork Octo: 20. 1790 from Alexander Hamilton Esqr: the Sum of fiftey one pounds 12/. in full of all Demands.
James: Robinson
£ 51-12-0


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 22 October 1790
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Custom House Providence 22. Oct. 1790.
Sir,
Enclosed is my return of Cash for the last week, the balance of which being 555.30½ is in Specie.
I also enclose an Account of a few articles of foreign manufacture, which were in June last, soon after this office was opened, exported (not for drawback) by Messrs Brown & Francis to the Cape de Verds: from whence they have within a few days past arrived in the same vessel, and been reported by the master as returned unsold. Those gentlemen, thinking it a hardship to pay duties twice upon the same Articles, circumstanced as these are, have declined paying such as the law requires; and I have therefore taken them into possession: I wish for your directions, whether they must be sold immediately to obtain a payment of the duties, or be kept six months, when their bond for the duties on the remainder of the Cargo will become payable.
With great respect and esteem, I have the honor to be Sir, your most obedt & most hume servt.
Jereh Olney Collr
Alexr Hamilton EsqrSecretary of the Treasury.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Allibone, 25 October 1790
From: Allibone, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia] October 25, 1790. “Enclosed Herewith is accounts of the Expenditures in the Office of Superintendance of the Light House at Cape Henelopen &c., from the first of July to the first of October from which there appears A Ballance in my hands of three hundred and fifty four Dollars and Twenty Eight & one half Cents.… Part of the afforesaid Ballance has been Since paid away and as Several Contracts are compleated and nearly due, as well as the Wages or Sallery of Persons Employed. A considerably greater Sum will be Shortly Required.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Allibone, 25 October 1790
From: Allibone, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, October 25, 1790. Describes “repairs of the Piers Opposite to Reedy Island.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Sharp Delany, 26 October 1790
From: Delany, Sharp
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia] Oct 26th 1790
Sir
There are Doubts respecting the payment of Tonnage on new Vessells. The only reason perhaps such payment should follow the granting of a Register is, that on granting a Licence & Enrollement the Tonnage follows. I have now depending four or five cases, and request your opinion for my guide in future & am &c.
SD


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Richard Harison, 26 October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Harison, Richard

Private
Philadelphia October 26. 1790
My Dear Sir
I called on you before I left Town to mention to you the case of a seizure in which (if I recollect right) the House of Murray Mumford and Bowen are interested. It was for landing goods after sunset, without license from the Collector but with the presence & consent of an inspector.

I expect an application will be made to the judge of the district, in order to a remission of the forfieture.
As this is the form in which smuggling is apt to make its most dangerous approaches; I request your very particular attention to sifting the affair with a critical & jealous eye. The informant was one Franklin of whom Col. W Smith can give you information. He must of course be examined. Any objection to his being interested will be inadmissible in the case of an application for favour. I remain with very great regard & esteem   Dr Sir   Your Obed ser
Alex Hamilton
R Harrison Esqr.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 26 October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury DepartmentOctober 26th. 1790.
sir,
I have had the honor to receive your several letters of the 12th., 13th, & 15th. inst: which finding me in the act of removal from New York to Philadelphia, I have been prevented from the due acknowledgement of their reception at an earlier moment.
The Baron Perin’s claim shall be examined as soon as the Officers of the Treasury can complete the arrangement of their Books & papers, which I trust will be in a very few days, and I shall communicate to the Baron the result, transmiting at the same time your letter to him.
I was apprehensive from the letter of Mr. J. Langdon to me which I had the honor to enclose to you at the moment of my departure from New York, that his brother was not very desirous of the Office of Commissioner of Loans. A later letter of his to Mr. Lear is less decided, though that to me expresses a wish that the appointment may be given to Mr. Keith Spence of Portsmouth. I have however transmitted your letter to Mr. Woodbury Langdon, and have written to his brother, as the recent insolvency of Mr. Spence, a circumstance which I have just learnt from Mr. Lear appears to render him in a considerable degree unsuitable for an office of so great pecuniary trust.
I have the honor to be with the highest respect   sir   Yr. most Obedient & most hble servt.
Alexander Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 26 October 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Mount Vernon Octor. 26th. 1790.
sir
Your letter of the 8th inst. I received yesterday on my return from an excursion up the Potowmack.
I acquainted you on the 15th. instant that I had appointed Mr. Woodbury Langdon Commissioner of Loans for the State of New-Hampshire; but as it is probable from his brothers letter to you, that he will decline the appointment, I have now to inform you that I have no objection to Mr. Keith Spence the person recommended by Mr. John Langdon provided that, on enquiry, you find him to be the person best qualified to discharge the duties of the office.
Mr. Lear’s knowledge of characters in the State of New Hampshire will assist your information on this subject.
I am, sir,   Your most Obt. Servant
Go: Washington


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Otho H. Williams, 26 October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Williams, Otho H.

Treasury department Octr. 26. 1790
Sir
Your letter of the 15th. instant is come to hand, together with the forms of Custom House papers in use with you, for which I thank you.
I observe what you say on the subject of Manifests. The idea has evidently been derived from a similar regulation lately introduced in Great Britain; and it is said that the effect there has evinced its utility. It is true as you remark, that as no method of authentication abroad is prescribed, there is a possibility that the Manifests may be fabricated after the arrival of a Vessel in port; but when you recollect that they are liable to be demanded within four leagues of the Coast; that the not having them on board will be attended with serious penalties; that when the Cutters are in activity such demands will be frequent and always possible, you will perceive that there is an effectual security for a compliance with the law. And there is reason to beleive that the regulation itself will be a safeguard to the Revenue by operating as an obstacle to Collusion between Masters and Owners after the arrival of Vessels on the Coast and by rendering all illicit changes in the original state of the Cargo more dificult.
It is to be wished, that a less early day had been appointed for this regulation to take effect than that mentioned in the law, as it is certain that there has not been time for Masters of Vessels to come prepared with such a Manifest as it requires; and consequently to enforce the penalties would be oppressive. Manifests it is true were required by the former law; but the particulars which they were to specify were not designated as in the last; and it is not presumeable that these particulars were to be forseen. Neither was there any specific penalty for non compliance with the former law.
Under such circumstances, this appears to be one of those very special cases, in which some relaxation on the part of the Officers is matter of necessity; till there shall have been time for being prepared to conform to it. The insisting upon an exact conformity will then be indispensable, and I am persuaded of real utility.
The Collector here has adopted an expedient which appears to me well judged. He has had a number of copies of the sections relating to Manifests struck off & delivered one to each Master of a Vessel. This is well calculated to obviate hereafter the plea or pretext of ignorance.
I am with great consideration   Sir, Your Obedt. Servt
Alexander Hamilton
Otho H. WilliamsCollector. Baltimore.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Sharp Delany, 28 October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Delany, Sharp

Treasury Department Octr. 28. 1790.
Sir
The Act imposing duties on the Tonnage of Ships or Vessels declares that this charge shall accrue when vessels “shall be entered in the United States from a foreign port or place.” That entry can never have preceded the application for a Register for a new Ship, and consequently the Tonnage cannot be then demanded. New Vessels applying for coasting licences are charged upon a different principle. The Certificate of payment at the time of obtaining an enrollment and licence is made a requisite to their running free of Tonnage thro’ the subsequent year. I am, Sir, very respectfully, Your Obedt. Servant
A Hamilton
Sharp Delany Esqr.Collector of the CustomsPhiladelphia.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Sharp Delany, [28 October 1790]
From: Delany, Sharp
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, October 28, 1790]
Sir
By the 1st secto. of the Tonnage Act all Vessells enterd from a foreign Port, are made subject to the Duty on Tonnage.
Quere Whether a Vessell putting in here in distress comes under the meaning of the said Act.
By the Collection Law Page 27 no part of the Cargo of a Vessell compelled by distress of &c is made liable to Duty except such as may be sold for repairs &c. I have a spanish Vessell now situated as above except that after repairing she left her Cargo here & went out in ballast on acct of the rumour of a War with England. I hold her accountable for the Tonnage till your decision is had.
Goods intitled to Drawbacks are to be exported in the original packages—Page 36 Collection Law. Application is now made to me by Sundry Merchants trading to the East Indies, for Liberty to put Wine & spirits in Casks fit for the trade, under the inspection of an officer & allow the Drawback. The Words of the Act being so pointed, I informed them I should lay their claim before you, and of course follow your directions.
I beg to have your opinion on the above as soon as you conveniently can—as the parties concerned from the approaching season request to have it determined, being to them of considerable consequence.
I am &c
S D
Secry of the TreasuryOct 28th 1790


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Arnold, 29 October 1790
From: Arnold, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[East Greenwich, Rhode Island, October 29, 1790. On December 13, 1790, Hamilton wrote to Arnold: “Your letter of the 29th. October has been received.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Sharp Delany, 29 October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Delany, Sharp

Treasury Department Ocr. 29th. 1790
Sir
If the arrival of the vessel, that has put into this port in distress, was subsequent to the passing of the existing Collection-Law, she is not liable to Tonnage; provided all the requisitions of the Law, in such cases, are duly complied with, but if she has left behind her any goods, not licensed by you to be sold, either on account of their perishable nature, or for the purpose of procuring money to pay for her repairs and expences, those goods must be entered, and she is liable to the Tonnage Duty.
I have considered the case you have put relative to the drawbacks of goods proposed to be exported by certain Gentlemen in the East India Trade. The directions of the Legislature on this point, as contained in the 36th page of the Collection-Law, are so clear and positive, that I do not consider any executive officer as authorised to depart from them, however expedient a reconsideration of this subject may appear, when they may find it necessary to enter upon a revision of their Commercial Acts.
I am, Sir, Your obedient Servt.
A Hamilton
Sharp Delany EsquireCollr. Philada.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 29 October 1790
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence, October 29, 1790. “Enclosed is my Weekly return of Cash.… I also enclose a draft, which I have paid, of the Treasurer of the United States in favor of Wm Seton Esquire Cashier of the Bank of New York.… Since my last Messrs Brown & Francis have secured the payment of the duties on the returned articles therein mentioned.…”


Title: Account with Andrew G. Fraunces, October 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander,Frances, Andrew G.
To:

Philadelphia, October, 1790. This account lists the payments made for moving “15 Loads of Goods” from New York City to Philadelphia.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Allibone, 1 November 1790
From: Allibone, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, November 1, 1790. “I have annexed an abstract of Contracts and Services for which payment will be due in the Course of the present month to which I have added Estimate of the Expenditures for the present year up to the fifteenth of August Next.… It will appear from this abstract and Estimate that it is probable not more than three thousand five hundred Dollars will be wanted for the present year’s Expences, in the Department of Superintendance of the Light House of Cape Henlopen & of the Beacons Buoys & Publick Piers in the Bay & River Deleware.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the President and Directors of the Bank of New York, 1 November 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: President and Directors of the Bank of New York

Treasury DepartmentNovember 1st. 1790
Gentlemen
Your distance from this Office renders it necessary that the disposal of the Bills of the Treasurer should be subjected in a greater degree than heretofore to your discretion.
When applications are made I request that you will make the sale without the usual recurrence to me taking due care to have a good firm or name as signer of the Notes you receive, and another as endorser. It will be prudent not to place too large sums upon Notes even thus guarded, it being best to err on the side of caution.
In regard to the length of credit, for the present the drafts upon Georgia and South Carolina may be sold at Forty five days; on North Carolina, Virginia and Maryland (except Batimore) at Thirty days; on Rhode Island and the ports nearer than that State at Thirty days; on Boston and the ports Eastward of it (except Newhampshire) at Forty five days, and on Newhampshire at sixty days. Bills on Baltimore, it is presumed, will generally bring Cash, you may however give a credit of 10 or 15 days when you find it required.
In order to regulate my operations, I must request the favor of a Weekly return of the Cash received by you, including every source for account of the United States, by the Mondays Mail. As it is merely for information no formality will be necessary further than a head with the items of receipt and payment without reference to the balance of the preceding week, and without summing up.
I am, Gentlemen, with great consideration   Your most Obedt. servant
Alexander Hamilton
The President, Directors & Co. of the Bank of Newyork


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Commissioners of Loans, 1 November 1790
From: Treasury Department,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commissioners of Loans

Treasury DepartmentNovember 1st. 1790.
Sir
Doubts have arisen in one of the Loan Offices whether the Certificates to be issued for sums subscribed to the new Loan should be signed by the Commissioner. This being necessary, I am to request that if any have gone from your Office without your name, you will apply for them to the holders and add your signature.
An opinion has been communicated to me by one of the Loan Officers that Certificates given to nonsubscribers for Indents of Interest and Old Continental Emissions are to express that they are to bear interest after the 31st of December next. This is not to be the case as the design of the Act apparent from the general tenor of it is to leave for the present those who do not subscribe to the loan, in the same situation in which they were before, neither better nor worse, except as to a temporary payment of interest on Account. A form will be sent on to you expressing in substance nearly the purport of the Certificate already transmitted, in relation to nonsubscribers; execept an omission of the declaration that the holder of that Stock is intitled to Interest.
An idea is entertained that a state may become a subscriber for a portion of that part of her separate debt which has been assumed, which is erroneous, altho’ the interest upon such part of it as shall be finally unsubscribed by her Creditors will be paid (according to Instructions which will be given in due time) to such State in trust for such Nonsubscribing Creditors.
It will be proper that there should be written on your marginal Checks the Number, Amount, Stockholders Name &c of the corresponding Certificates. This is mentioned as it appears probable that it may have been omitted in one or two of the Offices.
I am, Sir, Your Obedt. servant
Alexander Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 1 November 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury Departmt. Novemr. 1st. 1790
sir
I am honored with your letter of the 25th. ultimo, relative to the office of Commissioner of Loans for the State of New Hampshire. It appears most proper that I should postpone any movement upon this subject, ’till I shall Know your pleasure after my letter of the twenty sixth of last month shall reach your hands, and you shall be ascertained of Mr. Langdon’s intentions in regard to the appointment. In obtaining information concerning Mr. Spence, I availed myself of Mr. Lear’s knowledge of him, a statement of which was involved in the observations upon that Candidate, submitted to you.
I have the honor to be with the highest respect, Sir, your most Obedient & most hble servant
Alexander Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Habersham, 2 November 1790
From: Habersham, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Savannah, November 2, 1790. Discusses plans for the construction of a lighthouse on Tybee Island.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John B. Church, 3 November 1790
From: Church, John B.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

London Novr. 3d: 1790
My Dear Sir
I have receiv’d your Letters by Coll. Humphreys and Monsr. Ducher, but Angelica and all my Family being at this Season of the Year establish’d in the Country I have not had it in my Power to shew them those Civilities I wish’d. I observe Wadsworth has paid four Thousand Dollars on my Account. When you can possibly spare Time from the multiplicity of your Public Duties I will thank you to send me my Account Current.
We are here in a most anxious, awful Suspence between Peace and War; the Messenger from Mr. Fitzherbert our Minister at Spain with the definitive Answer from that Court which is to decide the Matter is hourly expected; you will most probably Know it by this Pacquet as it will be Known at Falmouth before she sails. We have a most tremendous Naval Force ready to operate, and from the best Intelligence I fear our Demands are such as Spain will not comply with, War then will be the Consequence of their Refusal, but the Consequence of that War will be dreadful to this Country. The most sucessful War will leave us with such an Accumulation of Debt, that great as her Resources are, encreas’d as is her Commerce, Taxation is carried so very very high that an Encrease of seven or eight Millions Annual Interest is what I fear she never will be equal to. Notwithstanding this, a mad Credulity prevails here just as it did at the Commencement of the American War, we despise our Enemy, and dream of nought but Victory, and the Capture of Spanish Wealth, the Mines of Mexico and [not clear] are already ideally in our Possession. Should we be unsuccesful, this Country will experience Distress long unknown here. May good Heaven avert the Consequences, and dispose the Spanish Administration to consent to a Peace that will be the Salvation of perhaps both Governments.
Enclos’d are Letters from Angelica. She is in perfect Health and joins me in most cordial and affectionate Remembrance to Mrs. Hamilton and yourself.
I am   My Dear Sir   most sincerely & affectionately Yours
J B Church
Alexr Hamilton Esqr.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Sharp Delany, [4 November 1790]
From: Delany, Sharp
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, November 4, 1790]
Sir
The Inclosed Memo I transmit for your opinion. The measures to be taken respecting Damaged goods are plainly set forth in Page 27 of the Collection Law. In Addition to what the Memo sets forth I would add that I am assured the Parties erred from Ignorance of the Law and not from any intention of injuring the Revenue.
I am Sir   with great respect   Your Obedt &c

S D
Nov 4th


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Sharp Delany, 4 November 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Delany, Sharp

Treasury DepartmentNovr. 4th. 1790
Sir
It will be necessary to the perfect understanding of the case you referred to me this morning, to know the day on which the goods of the Betsey from Liverpool were entered and whether they are now in a situation to be exhibited. It will be agreable to me also to see such papers, relative to this case, as may be in your hands.
When you possess me of these things, I will give the subject due consideration and will communicate to you the result.
I am, Sir, Your obedt Servt.
Alex Hamilton.
Sharp Delany EsquireCollectorPhiladelphia


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Sharp Delany, [4 November 1790]
From: Delany, Sharp
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, November 4, 1790]
The Betsey enterd the 25th Ulto and her cargo permitted in the course of 6 or 7 days. The goods as far as I have been informed have been sold at Auction on Acct of the Underwriters, had they been in Possession of the Merchant, I could have proceeded agreeably to Law. I have no documents or papers respecting the Claim other than the Memo transmitted for your decision. I was fully aware of the intention of the Law in having it in the power of the Collector to identify the goods and of consequence told the applicant I was debarred from giving any redress without your directions—that I would lay it before you in order to determine whether under such circumstances as the present the survey of the Officers appointed by the District Judge may be accepted in place of the survey which the Law directs.
I am &c
S D


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas FitzSimons, [6 November 1790]
From: FitzSimons, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[November 6, 1790]
Dear Sir
The difficulty of makeing provision by a Genl. Law for the Regulation of Pilots and the Superintendence of the light houses, Buoys &c. appear to me to be insurmountable otherwise than by the Appointment of Commrs. in Each State (say 3) to reside at the principle port to give them Certain powers in the Act and authority to make bye Laws Subject to the Revision of the Presidt of the US. or perhaps More properly of the Secy. of the Treasury.
By this Method the Compleat Control of the Pilots would be in the US a thing in my opinion Important to the Revenue—and the Regulations may be Adapted to the Circumstances of each State without inteffering with Each other. If You Approve of the Idea & I Can be Serviceable in Carrying it into Effect You may Command me.
I am Respectly   Sr yr. Mo hble servt
Thos. FitzSimons
Novr. 6. 1790
A Hamilton Esqr


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jeremiah Olney, 6 November 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Olney, Jeremiah

[Philadelphia, November 6, 1790. On November 19, 1790, Olney wrote to Hamilton: “Your letter of the 6. instant … came to hand this day.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 6 November 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury Departmt. Novr. 6th. 1790
sir
Since I did myself the honor to address you on the fourth instant, another letter from the Commissioner of Loans for the State of North Carolina has been received, of which a copy will be found in this inclosure. From this last communication it appears, that he is disposed to make an experiment of the office, which, I beg leave to observe, is a pleasing circumstance, both as it insures the immediate accommodation of the public creditors in that quarter, and because the gentleman’s experience and past conduct promise an intelligent & faithful execution of the new duty which you have been pleased to commit to him.
I have the honor to be with the highest respect, Sir, Your most Obedt. & mot: hble Servant
Alex: Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Caleb Gibbs, 7 November 1790
From: Gibbs, Caleb
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Barre, Massachusetts, November 7, 1790. On January 16, 1791, Gibbs wrote to Hamilton: “I did myself the honor to address you the 7th. of Novr.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 8 November 1790
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence, November 8, 1790. “The master of the Sloop Samuel of this place late commanded by John Arnold, being changed, I have this day certified on the Register, numbered 22., that Wm Flemming is the present master.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Seton, 8 November 1790
From: Seton, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Bank of New York 8 Novr. 1790
Sir
I am desired by the President and Directors to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter of the first instant, and to assure you that the strictest attention shall be paid to the line you have drawn for the disposal of such Bills on the different States as you may find convenient to lodge in this Bank.
The Board have directed agreably to your desire, that a Weekly return be made to you of all the Cash received for account of the United States in the form you point out; the one enclosed is up to the 6th inclusive.
I have the honor to be with the greatest respect


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 8 November 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Mount Vernon Novr. 8th. 1790.
Sir
I have received your letters of the 26th. Ult: & 1st. Inst. The objection stated by you to the appointment of Mr. Spence being conclusive, I now enclose a letter from Mr. Wingate to me recommendatory of another Candidate, with my answer occasioned by the previous appointment of Mr. Woodbury Langdon, but should that Gentleman finally determine not to accept, and you learn, on enquiring, that Colo. Rogers is qualified to discharge the duties of the office, I shall have no objection to appoint him.
The enclosed application from Captain Kelly, for the command of one of the revenue Cutters, will receive your consideration, and be compared with the pretentions of other applicants.
In my letter of the 4th. instant I informed you that Capt. Taylor had declined his appointment—he has since in consequence of your letter to him, waited upon me & agreed to accept. Observing that he should pursue your instructions for superintending the building and equipment of the vessel, he expressed a doubt what kind of Vessel could be built for the sum limitted, which would answer the purposes of the service. Swiftness of sailing being especially required, he though[t] that the pilot-boat construction would be best on that account, though very inconvenient in point of accommodation, and he submitted the idea of taking such pilot boats as had, upon trial been found to excel in the requisite of sailing.
I am Sir, Your Most Obt. Servant
G: Washington


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Wheelock, 8 November 179[0]
From: Wheelock, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Dartmouth College [Hanover, New Hampshire] Novr, 8th 179[0]
Sir!
This will be accompanied with a Diploma, in testimony of that respect, the sentiments of which I had the honour to express in the name of the Corporation of this Seminary.
It gives us the greater pleasure to be certified by the acknowledged and obliging favour of your letter dated October 9th, 1790, that this tribute is not unacceptable.
Majr. Jasper Murdock, who lives not far from us and in the State of Vermont, a gentleman of deserving worthy character, will have the honour of presenting this to you.
We hope, Sir! you will excuse any seeming delay in the business, as we could not complete it, nor have a safe conveyance so soon as we desired.
With a sincere desire, that the blessings of providence may continue to attend your exertions for the prosperity of these States and of mankind; and in sentiments of great respect and esteem, I am,
Sir!   Your most obedient and humble servant
John Wheelock
The honle Alexander Hamilton Esq. L.L.D.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Sharp Delany, 9 November 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Delany, Sharp

Treasury DepartmentNovr. 9. 1790.
Sir
I have considered the application made to you by the Gentlemen concerned in the damaged goods imported in the Betsey from Liverpool, and I am of opinion, that your answer to them is conformable with the Law. The legislature having thought proper to make the measures prescribed by the Act, requisite to obtaining the allowance for damage, it is not in the power of any executive officer to dispense with it.
I am, Sir   Your obedt. servant
Alexander Hamilton
Sharp Delany EsquireCollector of the CustomsPhiladelphia


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Robert Morris, [9 November 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Morris, Robert

[Philadelphia, November 9, 1790]
Dr. Sir
I wish to have the advantage of a conversation with you on certain public subjects, in the course of this week any afternoon or evening, after tomorrow, when you will be disengaged. If you will name a day for taking a family dinner with me, I shall think it the best arrangement; if this is not convenient, name an Evening and I will call upon you. The chief subjects will be additional funds for public Debt and the bank.
Would you have any objection that Mr. Fitsimmons should be of the party?
I remain with great truth & sincerity   Yrs

A Hamilton
November 9th. 1790
R Morris Esqr


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Heth, 10 November 1790
From: Heth, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Bermuda Hundred [Virginia] November 10, 1790. Acknowledges receipt of Hamilton’s “private letter of the 15th of September last.” States that Mr. Brown was innocent of “intentional falsehood” in swearing that Dennis Butler, an Irishman and master of the ship Bowman, was a citizen of United States. Also states that “Mr. Heathcote … is as conscious of being innocent of an intentional false hood, as Mr. Brown was.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 10 November 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Mount Vernon, November 10, 1790. On November 11, 1790, Washington wrote to Hamilton: “Since writing to you yesterday.…” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Gunn, 11 November 1790
From: Gunn, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Augusta Georgia 11th Novr. 1790
Dear Sir
A few days before I left New York I took the liberty of mentioning to you, Capt John Howell as a man qualified to Command the Cutter intended to be Stationed in the Georgia District. Since my arrival here I have had applications from many to interest myself with you in their favour, but am of opinion their pretensions are very inferior to Capt Howell’s, and I now take the liberty of making you acquainted with those which seem to qualify him for that Office. First he has a perfect knowledge of our Coast which he acquired in our Service. Secondly his application is aided by His Excellency the Governour and all the principal officers of Goverment and lastly it is in his power to produce the best credentials of his being a man of unblemished integrity. Should you think proper to interest yourself in favour of the inclosed application I shall feel myself obliged.
The late Treaty with the Creeks is much complained of in the Southern States. Our Assembly is now sitting and it is at this moment the subject of Debate. I find the mode of opposition is the point in which they differ. I shall do all in my power to persuade them to confine their opposition to a protest against the line drawn by the Commissioner and calling on the State Legislatures to aid them in resisting the attack made on their Constitutional rights.
Unfortunately the encouragement given to Savage insolence has spurred them to action, for they continue to kill the defenceless Inhabitants on our frontier.
I have the honor to be with much esteem   Sir   yr. most Obedient humble servant
James Gunn
Colo. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 11 November 1790
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Mount Vernon Novr. 11th. 1790.
Sir
Since writing to you yesterday I have received your letter of the 6th. inst: enclosing the copy of one from Mr. Skinner to you, wherein he expresses his intention to continue in Office, which in conformity to your opinion, I am willing he should do. You will therefore destroy the letter, which I enclosed to you in my last, for Colo. Thomas.
The person recommended by Capt. Taylor to be his first Mate is represented to me as a deserving man, and qualified for that station.
I am Sir   Yr. most Obt. Servt.
G: Washington


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Whipple, 11 November 1790
From: Whipple, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, November 11, 1790. Encloses “Quarterly Return of Goods exported from this District to the 30th Septr.” States that it is not always possible to indicate on the forms the destination of goods exported from Portsmouth.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 12 November 1790
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence, November 12, 1790. “Enclosed is my return of Cash for the week past.… I also enclose a duplicate list of five Bank notes.… The Sloop Polly, James Munro Jr late master, registered in this office the 24. of July last, being sold out of the United States, the Certificate of Registry … was yesterday returned and the bond cancelled.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Jay, [13 November 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jay, John

[Philadelphia, November 13, 1790]
My Dear Sir
I inclose you copies of two resolutions which have passed the house of representatives of Virginia. Others had been proposed and disagreed to. But the war was still going on. A spirited remonstrance to Congress is talked of.
This is the first symptom of a spirit which must either be killed or will kill the constitution of the United States. I send the resolutions to you that it may be considered what ought to be done.
Ought not the collective weight of the different parts of the Government to be employed in exploding the principles they contain? This question arises out a sudden & indigested thought.

I remain Dr Sir   Your Affectionate & Obedient   hum servant

A Hamilton
Novr. 13. 1790
Chief Justice of the U States


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to David Sewall, 13 November 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Sewall, David

Treasury DepartmentNovember 13th. 1790
Sir
I have received through the Clerk of the District Court, your statement of facts on the petition of George Tyler. Some doubts which arose in my mind on the subject, added to my being on the point of removal from New York to Philadelphia delayed a determination. The day before yesterday a letter from the Collector of Penobscot of the 20th. of September (an extract from which together with copies of the declarations referred to in it are inclosed) came to hand; which has greatly increased the doubts I, at first entertained about the propriety of a remission or mitigation of the penalties to which the party is subject.

As I am however unwilling to precipitate the execution of a sentence of so serious a nature as that which hangs over the Petitioner, I have concluded to remit the statement to you, in order that it may be ascertained, whether the objections which as matters now stand operate against a remission or mitigation, can be satisfactorily removed.
The following observations naturally arise out of the documents before me—
The petition speaks of Finley Malcom of Robinstown, in the County of Washington: but the Collector represents him as being of St. Andrews. And the statement of the Judge is silent as to his place of residence.
The petition represents the Collector as having remitted his share of the penalty, from a conviction that it was incurred without wilful negligence or intention of fraud. The statement of the Judge does not express the reason, but mentions the fact and connects it with circumstances which lead to an inference that the motive assigned for it by the Petitioner was the true one. But the Collector affirms his full conviction of a fraudulent intention, and alleges, as his reason for remitting his share of the penalty, a desire of manifesting that he had acted in the prosecution from a sense of duty not from a view to gain.
The statement of the Judge represents, that the case, at the trial, was generally considered as a hard one with respect to Tyler. But the Collector declares, that he has heared no person speak upon the subject who was not of opinion, that the Petitioner had not the least claim to a mitigation and adds his persuasion, that a mitigation would have a very bad effect upon the minds of people where all the circumstances are known, and that should he get clear of the penalty, none that shall hereafter transgress will doubt of obtaining the benefit of a mitigation. And it appears from the statement of the Judge, that the Jury had no hesitation, having found a verdict against the defendant without leaving the bar, or as it is expressed on the stand which is presumed to be the same thing.
The statement of the Judge mentions, that the articles in question were put on board on the American side of the river Shoduck affording, with the suggestion of the petitioner as to Malcom’s residence, room for an implication, that they were brought from a County of the State of Massachusetts: But the Collector represents, that they were brought from St. Andrews, which is on the opposite side of the Shoduck, and in the occupancy of subjects of Great Britain. And the declarations of the Master of the Vessel and of one of her passengers transmitted by him as containing the substance of what was sworn at the Trial, confirm the same fact.
The statement of the Judge speaks of the presence of the Attorney of the District, without saying anything about the presence or the notification of any person claiming an interest in the penalty or forfeiture. But the law expressly requires, that the latter as well as the former shall be notified. The Collector, who appears to be that person, states as his only source of knowlege of there having been an application to the Judge, casual information received by him from Gentlemen who attended the District Court.
These things appear to require some further explanation. While a disposition unduly rigorous ought not to be indulged in those to whom the execution of the laws is committed, their duty requires, that they should be vigilantly on their guard against all artifices and contrivances to elude them.
I have the honor to be   With due respect, Sir,   Your most obedt. Servt.

Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury
David Sewall EsquireJudge of the District Court of the United States for the District of Maine


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tench Coxe, [15 November 1790]
From: Coxe, Tench
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, November 15, 1790]
Dear Sir
I send you two books & five papers found in the files relative to Mint & coinage—also the weights of the principal coins of the Nations you mentioned taken from the Bank information. Tomorrow afternoon the Assays are to be made. I have not yet got the copper cost & charges.
I find the old dollar (the best) in Sir I. N.s tables, which is 17.12 gr. valued at 4/6 would make the Dutch Ducatoon of 20.21 gr. worth only 64.414 sterling pence and the new dollars of 17 dwt. 7.8 gr. as by the Bank information makes the ducatoon worth 65.68d—instead of 65.59d.—i.e. ⅙ or ¾ ⅌ Ct.

   It may be remarked that the Medium of dollars being (as they are current) more than 17 dwt. 7.8 gr by reason of the several old Kinds, the ducatoon would probably be 65.59 were the medium ascertained.

You will find enclosed a London Price currt. of last year with the prices of Bullion, coins, & courses of Exchange.
I am with great respect   Yr affecte. humble Servant

  T Coxe
  Novr. 15th. 1790


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Lincoln, 16 November 1790
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, November 16, 1790. Presents a new design for lighthouse lamps to elimate soot accumulation on the glass.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Seton, [16 November 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Seton, William

[Philadelphia, November 16, 1790]
Dear Sir
You will oblige me very much if you will have an assay made as speedily as possible by some of the most skilful hands in your City of the Coins gold and silver of England France Spain & Portugal in most general circulation with you.
The more I examine the statements and tables which have been published respecting the standards of Coins, the more variances I discover; and the more it appears to be necessary to test the truth by experiment.
Whatever expence this may occasion shall be reimbursed. The sooner the assays can be had the more it will oblige. The same thing is doing here.
I remain with great regard   Dr Sir   Your Obed st
A Hamilton
November 16. 1790
I wish to have, with particular accuracy, the weights of the several kinds of dollars old & new with their dates & the fineness of each. Let it be attended to what proportion of the alloy of the several kinds of gold is silver what proportion copper.
Bateaux the french upholsterer has some Commissions from Mrs. Hamilton [which] will require money. Please to let him have any sum not exceeding one hundred Dollars.
Wm. Seton Esqr


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Nathaniel Appleton, 17 November 1790
From: Appleton, Nathaniel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, November 17, 1790. “Your circular Letter 1st Novr. is recd. I have put my signature to all the Certificates which I have issued. I have had no applicants as non-subscribers if any persons should apply I shall observe your directions respecting Indents & Old Continental emissions. I had no Idea that a State could be a subscriber towards the assumed Debt but only be entitled to draw Interest upon any sum that the subscription of Individuals might fall short of the sum assumed by the Act of Congress. I have always written on the marginal Checks the Number of the Certificate, Name, occupation, Town, the sums issued, & the date of the issue.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Davidson, 17 November 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Davidson, John

Treasury Department, November 17, 1790. “I have recieved your letter of the 10th. instant.… The late Collection Law specifies, that a certain per centage shall be allowed to Collectors on all sums by them recieved and paid into the Treasury. You cannot therefore charge commisions upon monies recieved under it which have not been so disposed of.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Lincoln, 17 November 1790
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, November 17, 1790. “The inclosed papers I received from Portland. It was supposed then that the appointment of a keeper for the light house at Portland was with me. I think it my duty therefore to forward the papers for the information of the President. I do not know either of the persons in nomination.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Lincoln, 17 November 1790
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston Nov. 17th. 1790
Sir,
By the new collection law it is enacted that there shall be an allowance for leakage for two pr cent on the quantity which shall appear by the guage to be contained in any cask of liquor subject to duty by the gallon. A question has arisen whether molasses be a liquor in the meaning of the law; the same practice doth not govern the whole it is important that one system should operate in the different districts. I think therefore if there are no doubts on your own mind respecting the subject a circular letter from you establishing a rule would promote the general interest. Nothing but that or a judgment of the comr. will satisfy the people.
I have the honour of being   sir your Obedt Servt
Hon Secretary of the Treasury of the United States.


Title: Agreement with Titus Salter, 18 November 1790
From: Salter, Titus,Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Portsmouth, New Hampshire] November 18, 1790. Joseph Whipple, signing for Hamilton on behalf of the United States Government, agrees to pay Salter $555.99 to maintain “the Light House Situate on the Island of New Castle in … New Hampshire at the entrance of the River Piscataqua” and to serve as keeper of the lighthouse.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Sharp Delany, 19 November 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Delany, Sharp

[Philadelphia, November 19, 1790. On December 2, 1790, Hamilton wrote to Delany: “I have received this morning your letter in answer to mine of the 19th. ultimo.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Nicholas Gilman, 19 November 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Gilman, Nicholas

Treasury Department, November 19, 1790. “Before I had the honor to receive your letter relative to Captain Hall, the President of the United States had appointed Captain Hopley Yeaton to the Command of the Revenue Cutter which is to be built in New Hampshire. As it has happened in other instances it is possible Captain Hall, tho’ recommended as Master may accept the Station of first Mate whose compensation you will recollect is Twenty Dollars ⅌ Month besides two rations per day.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jedediah Huntington, 19 November 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Huntington, Jedediah

Treasury Department, November 19, 1790. “In one of your late letters you mention Mr. George House as a Candidate for the command of a Cutter. The President having made his appointment, it becomes a question whether Mr. House will serve in the station of first Mate the Emoluments of which you will see by the law—also whether any better qualified person presents for that place. You inform me that you can contract for Oil, wick, candles, & soap for three hundred and eighty dollars ⅌ annum for the light house at Newlondon. The same Articles are supplied at Plumb Island for three hundred and seventeen dollars, and at Nantucket for One hundred & forty eight. You will be pleased to get this business reconsidered.…”


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Commissioners of Loans, 19 November 1790
From: Treasury Department,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commissioners of Loans

Treasury DepartmentNov. 19th 1790.
Sir
Several applications have been made by subscribers and transferrees of the new loan for more than one certificate for the sum belonging to them respectively. I am of opinion on further reflection that it will greatly promote the convenience of the Stockholders and so far favorably affect the public debt; and therefore authorize you to accommodate all those who define it, with certificates of such size as they may require.
If the owner of a certificate of the Register of the Treasury should desire to subscribe the same for his own account in your office you may, if he applies in person, receive the same on loan, but if he applies by another his authority by power of Attorney or at least by letter must be produced and left in your office.
Should any person desire to subscribe a register’s certificate for one to whom it does not by its face belong, a transfer on the back of the certificate must be made in one of the enclosed forms (A & B) from the owner of the registered debt to him for whom it is to be subscribed, or a power from the owner to some person to subscribe it for the applicant must accompany the certificate.
I am, Sir, Your obedt. servant
A Hamilton
P.S. Another instruction will be of use. When a Certificate is presented by an Agent to be subscribed (as mentioned in the second paragraph of the foregoing letter) for the Creditor in whose name such Certificate is he should endorse it as follows—I  agent for  in the within certificate named in virtue of the annexed power of Attorney (or instruction if it be by letter) do hereby request that the sum of  therein mentioned may be passed to the Credit of the said  on account of a Loan to the United States, proposed by the Act of Congress of the fourth day of August 1790.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Nathaniel Appleton, 20 November 1790
From: Appleton, Nathaniel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

United States Loan OfficeBoston 20th Novr. 1790
Sir
I wrote you 17th Inst. in answer to yours of the 1st Inst. This serves to enclose duplicate receipt for twelve books of Certificates recd. by Capt. Bray also a receipt for one Book of Certificates recd. by post from Mr. Gavett containg. Certificates for Non subscribers, for transferring Stock to other States & Certifts. bearing Interest of three pr Cent. In your letter 30th Sept. you say “if the Old Emission money should be too bulkey to be conveyed by the Post, it may, on application, be transmitted by Water,” this is doubtless the case with respect to the Old money in my Office, for what I recd. in October is in more bulk than will fill a large Chest, being near two Million Dollars and what I have recd. already in this month will fill another. From your encouragement as above, I shall wait your further instructions before I send it forward by Post, otherwise request the favour of being excused from defacing of it, for that would be a labour intolerable. I have for⟨merly⟩ been through it & found it more trouble than counting it over twice, it would oblige me to Keep two trusty hands constantly at work, in addition to four Clerks, which I am now obliged to employ. You will either devise some method whereby it may be destroyed here, or suffer it to be transmitted by water in its present state. There are dayly applications to the Office to make transfers. I wish to Know wether an Attorney by virtue of a general power to transfer Stock, can transfer it immediately to himself by the second form of transfer as exemplified in the paper No. 3, transmitted with the general Instructions, if not how shall a person, at a distan⟨ce⟩ from the Office, transfer his Stock to the person who purchase⟨s⟩ it of him? I wish to Know what must be the form of a rect. to be taken for a new Certificate issued in consequence of a transfe⟨r.⟩ Please to inform me whether an Acting Justice of the Peace who in this State is empowered to take an acknowledgement of the conveyance of Real Estate, may be considered sufficient authority to take an Acknowledgement of a power for transferg. Stock. As Notaries publick are almost the only persons who can affix Official Seals, and they reside only in Seaport towns, it would greatly accomodate the Citizens of this State if the personal appearance of one of the Witnesses as required by the regulations could be dispenced with. I hope to make my October return next week. With great respect I have the honor to be Sir Yr. hble Servant
N.A.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, 22 November 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Treasury DepartmentNov. 22d. 1790.
Sir
Your letter of the 8th. September has not been answered so early as would otherwise have been the case, from the extraordinary engagements in this office about the business of the new loan, & the removal from New York to Philadelphia.
The clause in the late & existing Collection Law relative to exporting goods in the same packages in which they were imported cannot apply to goods actually loose or in bulk, such as salt, bar iron, dried fish, &c.
The Schooner, Bee if really American built, & actually owned (when application for a register shall be made) by one or more citizens of the United States, may be registered.
You mentioned in your letter of the 7th. of October a Captain Tucker. Is he equal or preferable to any who offers as first Mate, and will he serve in that Station under Capt. Williams? The Emoluments you know are 20 dollars Pr. Month & two rations per day.
If you find the nature of the business of your district shall appear on consideration to require another set of Scales & weights you have my consent to procure them. I would however remark that it does not appear that more than one set has been applied for in any other place.
The Money scales and weights may be procured.
As the excess of £7.14.0 Lawful Money in the Disbursements for the Plumb Island lighthouse appears to be for a necessary extension of one Article of the repairs beyond what was originally contemplated I am of opinion the payment of it ought not be refused.
The Boat for the service of Boston Harbor of 22 feet in length may be procured, but I request the favor of as œconomical an arrangement of hands and expences as the nature of her service will admit.
Benjamin Lincoln Esqr.Collector, Boston


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Seton, 22 November 1790
From: Seton, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, November 22, 1790. The endorsement on the letter that Hamilton wrote to Seton on November 16, 1790, reads: “Ans 22nd.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Nathaniel Appleton, 24 November 1790
From: Appleton, Nathaniel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, November 24, 1790. “I wrote you 20 instant. This serves to transmit a Return of Certificates, Indents & bills of Old Emission rec’d into the Office in the Month of October, for which, Certificates of Funded Debt have been issued agreably to an act of Congress 4 Augst 1790 & your instructions 16th Sept last ⟨as⟩ will appear by the Abstract, herewith sent you agreably ⟨to⟩ the form H, in which are stated 137 Accounts which Accts I now transmit & the same number of Receipts for Certificates issued to the several subscribers. I also forward by the Post all the Certificates & Indents rec’d in Octo which are cancelled by crossing them with red Ink; the bills of the Old Emission are not sent for reasons given in my last.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Jefferson, [24 November 1790]
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, November 24, 1790]
Th: Jefferson presents his respectful compliments to the Secretary of the Treasury, and incloses him a note from mr Droz, the coiner, which he forgot to deliver to him to-day when he had the honour of waiting on him. It came to hand yesterday.
Nov. 24. 1790.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Short, 26 November 1790
From: Short, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Amsterdam, Nov. 26, 1790
Sir
I took the liberty of acknowleging the reciept of your letters of Aug. 29th. and Sept. 1st. through the Secretary of State who I begged at the same time to inform you that I was preparing immediately to obey them. I beg leave to refer you also to him (to whom I had an unexpected opportunity of writing yesterday by the way of France) for what has been done in consequence of your letter of Aug. 29th. I hope it will meet your approbation, which I shall be extremely solicitous, as you may be assured Sir to merit on all occasions.
I asked the favor of the Secretary of State also in my letter of yesterday to inform you of my arrival here on the 20th. inst. & the causes of my departure from Paris being procrastinated. He will communicate also an article that I thought it best to cypher, as this letter will go through several posts & as some of the European governments have little delicacy in abusing the trust of letters confided to their post.
By a vessel which sails from this place for the United States I shall do myself the honor of writing you in a few days. I shall then be able to give you more accurate information than I am now possessed of on several subjects. You may be fully assured sir that I shall lose no time in making you such communications as you may desire, & particularly those which require expedition for the reasons mentioned in your letter of Sep 1.
I beg you to be persuaded of the sentiments of respect & attachment with which I have the honor to be   Sir, Your most obedient   humble servant
W Short
The Honble. Alexander Hamilton Esqr.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Nathaniel Appleton, 27 November 1790
From: Appleton, Nathaniel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, November 27, 1790. “… This serves to transmitt pr Post two packages … containing of the Certificates & Indents which were recd. in … October.… I observe in your General Instruction that the Salary to which I am intitled will be paid Quarterly by drafts or assignments upon the Treasury, but I have not been informed when the Salary commenced.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Jay, 28 November 1790
From: Jay, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston 28 Nov. 1790
Dr Sir
On returning from Exeter the Evening before the last, I had the pleasure of recg your Letter of the 13th. Instant with the two Copies mentioned in it. Having no apprehension of such Measures, what was to be done? appeared to me to be a Question of some Difficulty as well as Importance. To treat them as very important might render them more so than I think they are. The Author of McFingall could do Justice to the Subject. The assumption will do its own work—it will justify itself and not want advocates. Every indecent Interference of State assemblies will diminish their Influence. The national Govt has only to do what is right and if possible be silent. If compelled to speake, it shd be in few words strongly evincive of Temper Dignity and self Respect. Conversation and desultory paragraphs will do the rest.
Conversing toDay with Gen. Lincoln, I find he doubts the Expediency of some provisions in the proposed Act respecting the coasting Trade &c. He seems well informed about these Matters. It struck me & I observed that his passing a few Days at Pha. & conversing with You might be useful. I believe he wishes it, considering the Season he thinks no Inconvenience wd. result from his being absent a little while from his Station. If you should think it best to send him Leave of Absence, he wd. immediately set out. I told him I would mention thus much to you. I often hear his Conduct commended, and I really believe with Reason.
I have heard it suggested that a Revenue officer shd. be stationed on the Communication with Canada—the facility of introducing valuable goods by that Route is obvious. The national Govt. gains Ground in these Countries, & I hope Care will be taken to cherish the national Spirit which is prevailing in them. The Deviation from Contract touching Interest does not please very universally. An Individual remarked that while Congress thought themselves authorized to take such Liberties, private Property could not be secure in a national Bank.
I am my Dr Sr.   Yours affy
John Jay
Mr Secy Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 29 November 1790
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Custom-House,District of Providence 29th Novr. 1790.
Sir.
The Ship Warren, burthen about 281 Tons, belonging to Messrs. Brown & Francis of this Town, being bound on a Voyage to Calcutta, having part of her Cargo onboard, composed of the Articles contained in the enclosed copy of a Manifest, (since delivered) and not Registered under the present Government of the United States, sailed from hence on the 25th. instant, for Newport, there to take in the remainder of her Cargo, consisting, principally, of Wines, on which a Drawback of Duties are to be obtained—(that being the Port into which they were originally imported) without having, or applying for, a single Document from my Office authorizing her to proceed; altho’ I had previously seen the Master, and told him that the Ship could not, short of incurring a heavy Penalty, be Navigated to Newport without a Register &c.—desiring him to inform Mr. Brown thereof, and that I would attend at the Office after Church, (it being a Day of public Thanksgiving) and furnish the necessary Papers. But Mr. Brown, tho’ he was acquainted with this by the Captain, as he has since acknowledged, thought proper to slight the friendly Message, and in an apparant Contempt of the Laws, dispatched the Ship about Eleven o’Clock in the Forenoon, without any application to me for a Register or other Papers! My Office was open at Two o’Clock, expecting him to call; but I was soon surprized with the Information, that his Ship had proceed to Newport. Upon which I thought it my Duty to dispatch an Express immediately to Mr. Ellery with a few Lines, (of which I enclose a copy, as also of the Answer) acquainting him with the Transaction, expecting he would take the Steps which the Law, in such cases, points out; but he being absent, his Deputy, as you will see, declines doing anything about it.
It appears to me of great Consequence that every breach of the Revenue Laws should be prosecuted, and if wilful, punished with rigour, however powerful the Offenders may be; but being at a loss to know, precisely, on what part of the Law a Prosecution, in the present instance, should be commenced, or whether Mr. Ellery or I ought to bring it forward, I have thought it most advisable Sir, to lay the Matter before you, for your Information, Opinion, and Directions how to proceed.
Conceiving that a Process might be legally instituted against the Owners after the Ship had sailed on her Voyage, I have, upon their application this Day, Registered her in my Office, and furnished such Papers as are necessary to enable her, with safety, to complete her Lading at Newport, from whence she is to Clear for Calcutta.
With the highest Respect, I have the Honor to be, Sir, Your Most Obedt. & Most Hume. Servt.
Jereh. Olney Collr.
Evening. Since writing the foregoing, Mr. Brown has informed me, that it was not his Intention to complete the Landing of the Ship Warren at Newport but only to take in the Wines, and do what was necessary there to secure the Drawback, and to return here, take onboard the remainder of her cargo and Clear for Calcutta at my Office
J. O. Collr.
Alexander Hamilton Esqr.Secy. of the Treasury.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Cochran, 1 December 1790
From: Cochran, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, December 1, 1790. On December 10, 1790 Hamilton wrote to Cochran: “The instructions given to you originally in regard to the transmission of certificates are rightly construed by you in your letter of the 1st. instant.” Letter not found.]


Title: Notes of Objects for Consideration of the President, [1 December 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, December 1, 1790]
I   Confidence that measures for the further support of public Credit and for the payment of the interest and gradual extinguishment of the principal of the public debt will be pursued with zeal & vigour. And that as one mean to this a plan for the sale of the Western lands will be adopted, which will give them the effects intended, appropriating them to the sinking fund, while it will extend the Agriculture of the U States.

II   Felicitation on the success of the measures hitherto adopted for the support of public Credit witnessed by the rise of American Stock not only in the United States but in Europe. The public Credit cannot but acquire additional energy, when it is known that the revenues hitherto in activity have been more productive than was calculated upon: A proof not only of the resources of the Country but of the patriotism & honor of the Mercantile & Marine citizens of the U States. The punctuality of the former in discharging their obligations has been exemplary.
III   Information that a loan of 3000 000 of florins has been effected in Holland, the terms and the disposition of which (as far as any has been made) the Secretary of the Treasury has been directed to explain.
IV   Growing conviction in the Minds of the great body of the People of the Utility and benefits of the National Government. It is not to be doubted that any symptom of discontent which may have appeared in particular places respecting particular measures will be obviated by a removal of the misapprehensions which may have occasioned them.
V   Expedition against the Indians and Motives to it.
VI   disturbed situation of Europe particularly of the great Maritime Powers—The precautions of a prudent circumspection on the part of the United States ought not to be neglected.
VII   almost total interruption of our Mediterranean Trade from the dread of Piratical depredentations—great importance of opening that trade, & the expediency of considering whether protection cannot be afforded to it.
IX   symptoms of greater population than was supposed; a further proof of progressive strength and resources.
X   Remark on the abundance of Harvests affording an assurance of internal plenty and the means of easy payment for foreign supplies.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Peter Anspach, 2 December 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Anspach, Peter

Treasury DepartmentDec. 2. 1790.
Sir
Being desirous to carry into execution the intentions of the legislature in regard to the Claims upon the department of the late Quarter Master general, it is my wish, if agreeable to you, that you should undertake the business of collecting the documents, of receiving the claims and of stating them from time to time in returns that shall comprehend a number of them to the Auditor of the Treasury. For this purpose I am disposed to appoint you a Clerk in this department, with an allowance as limited by law, at the rate of five hundred dollars per annum, while you shall be employed. On the admission of any one of the statements you shall make, it is proposed to place in your hands a sum of money adequate to its discharge, in order that you may pay the individuals. You will be expected to account regularly for the money by furnishing proper receipts, shewing its application & exonerating the United States.
I shall confide in due exertions & dispatch on your part to accommodate the individuals, and to shorten as much as possible the extra charge to the public. This will not only be a satisfaction to yourself, but may have its effect in recommending you to future notice.
I am, Sir, Your obedt. servant
Alex Hamilton
Mr. Peter AnspachNew York.