Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Medad Mitchell, [27 August 1793]
From: Mitchell, Medad
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, August 27, 1793]
To the Honorable the secretary of the Treasury.
Sir

Having returned from a Voyage to the mississippi, wish to lay before the secretary what information I’ve been able to obtain, Relative to the Strength and Situation of the Country through which I have traveled, likewise the Policy pursued by the Spanish Government, towards the Citizens of the United States, and the Savages, inhabiting the Southern Territories thereof. I have not Vanity enough to suppose myself equal to the Subjects, on which I shall attempt to treat, I only hope that the information, my Ideas and opinions, which I shall communicate, may coroborate, with others who may have done it before me. Should any thing which I advance, appear to the secretary improbable, I hope he will do me the Justice to believe that I think so myself, nor that I advance a falsehood intentionally.
I shall in the first place, point out the Strength and Situation of
New Madrid,
Situated 45 Computed Miles below the Ohio, on the West bank of the Mississippi River. It has a weak, tho regular built fortification, mounting ten pieces of Cannon, chifly Nines and Sixs—is Garisoned by a Captain and Seventy Privates, there is 160 Militia at this post, chiefly Canadian Traders, I was told that 2000 Indians received their supplies at New Madrid.
The next post the Spaniards have on the Mississippi is the Walnut Hills, Situated 542 Miles below the Ohio, and 108 above the Natches, here has been no expense spared to fortify it well, Yet from what I coud observe their works were contemptible, tho the natural strength of the plan is very considerable, when I was there last March, they were building a Battery at the Landing, when compleated, will mount upwards of 20 pieces of heavy Cannon. I could not learn their strength. I only saw about 50 on fatigue.
Their next post is the Natchez, their fortifications at this place are in good repair, with plenty of heavy Artillery, A New fort was erecting when I was there, about 100 Artificers and Slaves are continually employed in the Kings Works—
Americans are frequently taken up at the Natches for spies, I descended the River from New Madrid to that place, with the commodore of the Kings Gallies, by his request I took the bearings of the Mississippi and a particular Survey of the Chicasaw Bluffs, after ariving, was introduced to his Excellency, who speaks English well, he requested me to draw my plans at his house, and in every respect, used me like a Gentleman, during this time I was employed, when I had compleated 1 plan of 650 Miles of the Mississippi, three of the Chicasaw Bluffs, and one of the Iron Banks, he enclosed them to his Excellency at New Orleans, and confined me to an officers Room 18 Days, tried me for a Spy from the United States, and then sent me to New Orleans, under care of an officer, who had once served the United States—during the time of my confinement, his Excellency treated me exceeding well. As soon as I arived at the Orleans, his excellency dismissed me, with a feint promise of employment, I soon found that the Americans were suspected by the Government, and that the price of informers was too high, I trembled for my safety, solicited for a Passport, and returned, as you see, to the United States. Many Americans are taken up, in that country, put in close confinement several months, merely upon suspicion of being Spies from the United States, very seldom they get a hearing, or are even told what they suffered for.
No American Citizen is allowed to trade with the indians on the Mississippi river, An American Boat stopped at the Chicasaw Bluffs, last May, and sold a few bushels of indian Corn, to the chicasaw indians, A Spanish emissary residing in the Town, gave information of this commerce to the Commanding officer at Walnut Hills, when the Trader arived, he was put in close confinement, and gained his Liberty some few days afterwards by the Sacrifice of his property. Spanish Agents and emissaries reside in every principal Town of the Chicasaws Chactaws, and Creek Nations. A Treaty was holding last July, at the Walnut hills, with these last mentioned Tribes, it was currently reported that it was for the purpose of purchasing the Chicasaw Bluffs, and to bring about a peace between the Chicasaw and Creeks, who had lately commenced hostilities.
Last April three Gallies loaded with warlike stores and Soldiers, had arrived at the Walnut Hills, 100 fresh Troops had arived at the Natches, and 400 at New Orleans from the Havanna. On the approach of War, the Gallies were ordered to the Billisi, the Troops at the Natches were ordered blow, and those which had arived from the Havanna, were Shipped on the 16th of last July onboard two Ships, bound to the place from whence they came.
New Madrid was reinforced with some heavy cannon, and other warlike Stores last February. The inhabitants were told that a reinforcement of 100 Men woud arive in the course of the Spring, A Galley was to have been placed at the mouth Of Ohio, to prevent any dry goods being smuggled into New Madrid.
I mentioned in a Former part of this paper, that 2000 Indians received their Supplies at New Madrid. The tribes which those savages belong to are, Shawonee, Deleware, and Cherokee, they keep runners from and to Detroit, and whenever a Campaighner goes out, I was informed, these savages joined their Countrymen. They frequently make excursions into Cumberland and return to this market with their plunder, I have seen them bring in horses, to New Madrid, which they had taken from the Settlement on Cumberland River, I have seen the Commanding officer purchase them, as well as others, I have heard them exult in their success, and receive applause for their conduct.
At New Madrid also, Deserters from the American Army, find assistance, they are allowed the priviledge of becoming Citizens there, with the Kings allowance, or are furnished provisions to any part of his Majesties dominions. They disarm them when they arive, and from what I coud Learn, have about 400 Arms, belonging to the United States, the Commandant had said, that if they were applied for by the authority of the United states, that he shoud give them up. Every American is examined very strictly by the Commanding officer of the last mentioned place, concerning the movements of the American Army, its strength &c &c, whether this is to assist the Savages, or to transmit to his Master below, I cannot say, But I believe both parties are informed of every inteligence ⟨which⟩ he gains. From what I have observed, respecting the Conduct of the Spaniards, towards both Americans and savages, I  cannot but believe, that they wish to fix the Indians as a barrier between the United states and them, by their excluding all Americans from having any intercourse with them, and drawing them over to themselves by presents, and a display of their power, certainly indicates nothing favorable to us.
From the anxiety which I discovered in his Excellency at the Natches, to have the bluffs drawn with accuracy, I was led to believe, that he thought them of great consequence, And from the Gallies ascending the River, Troops ariving from the Havanna &c, I also think they intended to fortify the Chicasaw Bluffs this Summer, The War in Europe, obliged them to recall their Troops, or perhaps they did not wish to awaken the Jealousy of the United states, at such a critical Juncture. Their continuing to fortify the Walnut Hills with so much industry, and at such a vast expence, does not appear probable, that they intend to give them up, and the Walnut Hills being of little consequence to them if the Americans had the Bluffs, is another reason why I believe that they intended to make sure of them so soon. From every appearance, they dread the Americans, they are convinced that the Mild and equitiable Laws of this Country, woud induce the subjects of his most Catholic Majesty, to quit his Banner, to remove under them, whenever it may be in their power. There is not a Man of Common sense, in the Province of Louisania, who does not despise the Government under which he lives, the Americans who live in the Province, are, either too poor to return, or have committed crimes in the United States, for which they dare not return, of this last description, the Spaniards seem very fond.
The Frenchmen groan beneath their Yoke, nor only stay because they cannot realize their property so as to remove it, They flatter themselves that the Americans will soon erect the Standard of freedom upon their shores, and rescue them from a state of Slavery, as abject as can possibly be conceived. They are not allowed to be seen speaking publicly together, nor to walk the streets after sun down. Many people of property are sent out of the province, to Slavery, without being told why or wherefore. Seventy five people of Property, who woud not take the oath of Allegiance to his Most Catholic Majesty, were permitted a Short time to Sell their property, Nor then allowed to bring cash, and go on board a Snow bound to Phila. They made a Sacrifice of some thousand Dollars, by being permitted so little time to prepare. After onboard, even sent to havanna, and it was the general opinion of people in New-Orleans, that the Moreu Castle woud bring them up, by their not ariving, there remains not the least doubt of it.
The Mississippi is settled along its banks 150 Miles above New Orleans, and about 30 below. The Annual incomes of Plantations in the compass mentioned is very considerable, when the French had the Liberty of Trading to that Country, some Estates cleared 20,000 Dollars pr. Annum, and many upwards of 10.000. No country can be better calculated for rice and indigo. I cannot give any idea of the Number of Militia, below the Natches, at Point Couper, a single settlement intirely french, I was told they had 300 Whites and 1200 Blacks. At the Natchez they reckon 66 White Militia. At the Walnut hills none are allowed to settle, That shoud the Americans take possession of them, they may not find any assistance from fresh provisions. Having given every Nessesary information that I am capable of, Shall draw this inference from the conduct of the Spanish Government, which has come to my knowledge, partly from experience, and partly from information.
1st. that they intend to Monopolize the Indian Trade upon the Mississippi, and to Aleniate the affections of the Savages from the Citizens of the United States, and to fix them as a Barrier between us and them, to present as much as possible the rapid population of our frontiers, while they gain time to fortify the River, so that nothing but a successful war can ever wrest it from their hands. 2nd. That they intended to fortify the Chicasaw Bluffs, this Summer, from their strengthening all their out posts, from the reinforcement ariving at the Natches, and New Orleans, and their Gallies moving up the River; no other conclusion can be drawn. And lastly, By their holding a Treaty with the Savages inhabiting the Southern Teritories of the United States, it appears highly probable to me, that they have already purchased the Chicasaw Bluffs. The same right existed, to purchase those Bluffs, as there did, to purchase the Walnut Hills. They treat with those Savages, as sovereighn independent states, who have a right to dispose of Their Teritories, as they think proper.
The Chicasaw Bluffs being the only high land, between the Iron Banks and walnut Hills, makes them of consequence to the Spanish Government, to command the River, And being well acquainted with the Value of the Indian Trade, most certainly will not omit securing them, whenever it lies in their power so to do.
When I returned from the Illinois Country, I was convinced that the Trade was beyond the common Calculation of the people of the United States, impressed with this Idea, I ventured to give the Secretary my opinion of it, and of its consequences. Since that time I have been able to obtain better information on that Subject, and shall venture upon the Secretaries patience, to lay it before him. The Amazing extent to which the Canadian Trapper is carried is almost incredible, From the Source of the Mississippi to the Arkansaw. The Arkansaw, which is Navigable about 900 Miles, St. Francis River Navigable about 600, the White River Navigable about 400, the Missouri whose extent is not known, are all supplied from Canada. The Ohio as far as the Wabash, the Wabash River and the Tenessee are Supplied from the Same Sources. Post St. Vincennes, it is true is not intirely Supplied by foreighners, yet the hunting Camps below are. I have seen a store of Canadian Merchandize at the Rapids of Ohio, when I descended the River last fall. The Spaniards of themselves are not able to furnish Merchandize sufficient for the consumtion of this Vast extent of Teritory. the Creeks, Chacktaws, and Chicasaws, on the American side, and the Indians of red River, and appalusia are all they supply. The many obstacles the Government throws in the way of commerce, and at every post the commandant, who is the Law, is a Trader makes it difficult, to become a competitor, and his Merchandize, if bought at New Orleans, comes higher, to the Trader, at any place above the Natches, than when bought in Canada, besides the duties laid upon furrs of all kinds at the Orleans, nearly, or quite, compensates for his expence in ascending the River. European Goods are cheaper in Lexington, Kentucky, than at New Orleans, And can be furnished at the Natches 25 pr. Cent cheaper, from the United States, than, any other way.
No people under heaven, are so capable of Trading with Savages, as those Canadians. They are habituated from their infancy to live like them, They understand their different Tongues, Their various wants, their Manners and customs, hence they are enabled to carry on those distant Voyages, and make immense profits, when an American with the same chance woud sink his capital. The Canadian has more influence with the Savages, than any other people or Government whatever. An Indian is sensible that he cannot live without them, is never known to treat them ill. The Canadians I speak of are those, who to gain permission to trade on the Rivers within the Spanish Territory, have taken the oath of Allegiance to his Most Catholic Majesty—and are held in high Estimation by the spaniards, as influential Characters amongst the Savages.
The pernicious consequences arising from a foreighn Commerce being carried on with those Savages on the frontiers of the United States, cannot be unknown to the secretary, but having an opportunity of seeing some of those consequences, and from information have formed a Judgement conformable to the Opinions of many others, shall not hesitate to communicate my thoughts on the subject to the Secretary, so far at least, as it effects the imediate Tranquility of the Southern frontiers of Kentucky.
The Cherokees, a very numerous warlike nation, are now at war with the United States. The Chicasaws are divided, The Creeks are daily Commiting hostilities upon the Southern States. The Spaniard can ascend and descend the Tenessee Ohio and Wabash, with as much safety, as an American can the Deleware. The Spaniard Supplies the savage with every instrument of Death, and urges him on to acts of barbarity. He congratulates him upon his Success, buys his plunder, While the Savage giddy with Success, recounts the many Scalps he has taken from defenseless Women and Children who has fell in his way, and imagines every one a fresh Laurel to his brow. The Savage knows no other way to acquire fame, but by War, he wants no pretext for that, but ability.
The Settlement on Cumberland, feel every Calamity, that Savage Cruelty can inflict, her bravest men have fell in the defence of their Country. While the Spaniards at New Madrid render every assistance to enhance their Suffering.
There is a Gentleman now in Phila. a Man of Veraicity, who is well acquainted with the conduct of the Spaniards. To him I will refer the Secretary for the proof of what I here assert, he likewise will be able to give full information of the policy pursued by the that Government, in a manner more Satisfactory than myself, having resided long in that Country.
The Chicasaws altho inclined to be friendly to the United States at present, are under the nessesity of getting their Supplies of our Enemies, he sees the Citizen of the United States drove from their shores like robbers, he finds that an American is not permitted to sell a Bushell of Corn to him, What Idea can he form of the power of this Country? An indian generally sides with the Strongest party, he cannot consider us in that Light, on the contrary, he will naturally conclude that we are a people unable to protect ourselves, nor extend protection to him.
The Spaniard makes a display of his Master’s Power to those sons of Nature, who are credulous enough to believe to be Superior to any other on earth.
In proportion as the Spaniards have gained the affections of the Savages, in the same proportion the United States have Lost their friendship. Their influence is so great at this moment, that I dont believe, any thing short of the interposition of Government can check it. They have prohibited the Citizens of this Country from holding any commerce with them, which is the only method that possibly can be adopted to conciliate the affections of Savages. They have Monopolized their Trade, and with it their friendship, and while it continues to be the case Peace can never be expected with them. A Savage Judges from external appearances. When once they behold the flag of the United States displayed on the Banks of the Mississippi he will then respect it. The impotent imperious spaniard, will then be obliged to act with more precaution.
Since I have exposed the Villainy of the spaniard, as much as lay in my power, I shall without apology proceed to give the Secretary a short description of Fort Massac, Iron Banks and the Chicasaw Bluffs. I think it the more nessesary, as they are the only land below the Tenessee, that Towns or fortifications can be erected upon, as far as Walnut Hills on the Mississippi.
Fort Massac, or old Cherokee fort lies eleven Miles below the Mouth of Tenessee, on the North bank of the Ohio, it is a high Commanding Situation, extends along the River about two Miles, The fort with some inconsiderable expense woud be much the strongest on the Ohio. The Iron Banks is situated 15 Miles below the Ohio on the East Bank of the Mississippi, it seems formed by nature to be the Strongest place, I ever saw in the Western World. They rise very fast as you approach them on the North side, about 4 or 500 feet, they butt upon the River nearly parpendicular, and continue along it for about 300 yds when they fall suddenly about 200 feet, upon another Bank, called from its whiteness, the Chalk Banks, they continue along the River, parpendiculur about 200 feet high, Nearly 400 yds when they leave the River at nearly right angles. The Chicasaw Bluffs, as near as I can recolect, lie about 200 Miles below the Ohio on the East side of the Mississippi. The first part of them extends about 1 Mile along the River, generally 150 feet above the Water, they are also parpendicular, 18 Miles below the first, they come upon the River, not so high as the former, but extend about the same distance along the river, About 20 Miles from the second part they again form another bank upon the River about 100 feet high, and extend the same distance along the River as the former. Above these last mentioned bluffs A River empties into the Mississippi about 200 yds wide, it is called on Hutchins Map “Margot River,” but the Comodore requested me to call it De Las Casas River upon my Map, after the name of the Governor of the Havanna. Below those Bluffs is a river of about 150 Yards wide which leaves the Mississippi and Joins the Yazous. This I was directed to Call Carondelet River, after the Govr. of New Orleans—or more properly, the Governor of the Province of Louisania. I wish to be understood, that these last mentioned Bluffs, are the distance mentioned below the Ohio. These Bluffs and the Iron Banks, being the only places left the United States below the Ohio, on the Mississippi, to build Towns, or to fortify upon must make them valuable, in case the Western Country is supposed to be of any importance to the Union. If the United states take possession of them, they command the trade of a great part of the Mississippi. They check the growing insolence of the haughty Don, they will then have it in their power to curb the Licentiousness of the Savage, And Secure the Depedence of the Western World.
I hope the Secretaries patience may not be exhausted with the Length to which I have carried this paper to, And altho I have attempted to give every description of the Mississippi Country And the Policy of its Government, in as clear a manner as possible, I do not expect that credit, that a man of education and character might have, not acquainted with the Language suitable to address distinguished Characters, nor of communicating my ideas with any degree of perspecuity, renders it nessesary that every allowance shoud be made for my temerity.
I shall transgress but a few minutes more at this time, by giving my opinion of the method that might be taken to Settle Any of those places which I have mentioned as suitable for fortifying &c.
No hunters ought to be admitted on any pretence, they are, with few exceptions, a licentious set of Men, which no Laws can restrain. The Farmer, by cultivating the Soil woud make the Savage Jealous that the forest, by which he gets his Subsistance, woud be soon converted into a field, he must nessesarily be exposed to their avarice, more than any other set of men, and by protecting him and his property, woud be carrying on a sort of hostility, which must naturally withdraw that mutual confidence which ought to subsist between both parties. Many of the Traders at New Madrid Might be drawn over to the interest of the United States, by suitable encouragement, each one of those Traders, woud, in my humble Opinion, be more serviceable to the United States than 100 Continental Troops.
Disciplined Troops, with those Canadians, woud be sufficient for every purpose of making a Settlement on the Mississippi.
Shoud an attempt to take possession of any part of the Mississippi be thought, at this time impolitic, Measures might be taken, at a very small expence, to put a stop to the Canadian Trade into the Ohio. A single Armed boat, placed between the Tenessee and the Mississippi, woud effectually prevent them from carrying on a Trade with the Cherokees, or the Wabash Indians. The Cherokees woud be obliged, either to carry their peltries upwards of 100 Miles by Land or submit to be Supplied by the Americans.
As I have observed before, that the only method that can be taken to conciliate the affections of those savages, it to oblidge them to take supplies from Traders friendly to the United States, whatever method that can be adopted to obtain this point, matters not, if once effected, it must restore peace to a great part of the Western Country, and prevent the Spanish Emisary from disturbing the Tranquility of the Southern frontiers of the United States.
With due respect   I beg leave to subscribe myself the Secretaries most Obedient and most Humble Servant.

M. Mitchell
Phila. August 27th 1793.
To the Honble.The Secretary of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 27 August 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philada. Augt. 27th. 1793.
Dear Sir,

You would oblige me by draughting an answer to the enclosed Address from Richmond (Virginia). If you can conveniently do it, to go by the Post of tomorrow, it would be wished; if not, it will do very well against Friday’s Post.
If you are not engaged & will take dinner with me today I should be glad of your Company. Govr. Blount & Genl Pickens will be here.
Yours always & sincerely

Go: Washington


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Otho H. Williams, 27 August 1793
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Williams, Otho H.

Treasury Department August 27th 1793
Sir

I enclose you the copy of a Petition from a Mr Salomon to the District Judge of maryland, respecting a certain quantity of Coffee, which has been seized in your Port.
I request that you will state to me the appearance of the affair in your view and inform me at the same time if any thing has been done with the Schooner; in regard to which there is at least a strong presumption of improper intention; such as to render a strict investigation, and probably the enforcement of penalties necessary and proper.
with great consideration   I am Sir   Your obedient Servant

A Hamilton
Otho H. Williams EsqrCollector Baltimore


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Lloyd, 28 August 1793
From: Lloyd, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Chestertown [Maryland] August 28, 1793. Again applies for the position of surveyor at the port of Baltimore.


Title: No Jacobin No. IX, [28 August 1793]
From: “No Jacobin”,Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, August 28, 1793]
For the American Daily Advertiser.
Mr. Dunlap,

Two Letters have just made their appearance, respecting the threatened appeal from the President of the United States to the people, one from Mr. Genet to the President—Another in answer to that from the Secretary of State.
It is understood, that these letters have come to the public eye, through the channel of Mr. Genet.
What he could have meant by the promulgation, is truly a matter of curious speculation.
Did he intend by it to have it believed, that he had not made the declaration which is ascribed to him?
If this was his object, he has totally failed in it. His letter contains no direct denial of his having made such a declaration; though by an affected circumlocution, he endeavours to have the air of doing so. And his appeal to the President is artfully confined to the question, “whether he had every intimated to him an intention to appeal to the People?” He may never have expressed such a threat to the President—and yet he may have done it more exceptionably to others. Indeed it has not been asserted, that it was addressed immediately to the President—The contrary has been a matter of notoriety from the beginning.
What answer does the Secretary of State on behalf of the President give to his inquiry?
One certainly the reverse of confirming what Mr. Genet endeavours to have believed. The President declines giving evidence against the declaration imputed to Mr. Genet—with this reason for it, that whether made to him or others was perhaps immaterial; a clear indication of his belief that it was made to some body. Whoever knows the circumspection and delicacy, which are characteristic of the President, will conclude, without hestitation, that he would neither have entertained nor intimated such a belief without sufficient ground for it.
Did Mr. Genet intend by his communication to remove all doubt from the public mind, about the reality of a serious misunderstanding between him and the government, and the want of respect in his demeanour towards it?
If these were his objects, his success has been complete.
His letter informs us in direct terms, that he has complained to the President, of the principles adopted by him—has remonstrated to him against the decisions resulting from them—has declared to him that far from manifesting a regard for the generous, friendly, and disinterested conduct of France, he had by his interpretation of the treaties between the two countries, sacrificed her interests to those of her enemies—that his conduct did not appear to correspond with the views of the people of America, or with their desire to observe with fidelity their public engagements, or with their regard for the cause of Liberty.
From this sample of the language used by Mr. Genet to the government, as avowed by himself, under circumstances which certainly did not lead him to exaggerate his own improprieties it is easy to discern what has been the true complexion of his deportment. It is easy to perceive, that it was more like that of an Eastern Bashaw to his slaves, than like that of the Minister of one, to the government of another sovereign and independent nation. It appears, that instead of endeavouring to convince the President of the supposed error of his construction—he has preferred the stile of complaint, remonstrance and unhandsome imputation. Want of regard to France, and a sacrifice of her interests to those of her enemies are petulantly charged; and Mr. Genet, willing to become the instructor of the government, undertakes to lesson the President about the views, the desires, and the regards of the people.
After all this he has the modesty to call upon the President to attest “that a difference in political sentiments has never betrayed him to forget what was due to the character and reputation of the President.”
What is the answer to this? None. A profound and expressive silence gives an unequivocal negative to the assertion.
The people of the United States can now be at no loss to determine, that they have been insulted and affronted by this foreign Agent, in the person of their Chief Magistrate.

No Jacobin.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 29 August 1793
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

T.D. C. O. Aug. 29, 93
Sir

The original papers of which I herewith enclose Copies, were a few days since recd. from the Accountts Office as Vouchers for accounts transmitted by Mr. Swan Pay Master of the Troops & for which he claims credit. The indications which they contain, that the instructions which were transmitted by the Treasury have not been pursued, render it my duty to submit the case to your consideration.

By the Act making alterations in the Treasy. & War Departments, the following duties are enjoined upon the P Mr. of the Troops.
Firstly. To receive the Pay Abstracts of the Pay Master of the several Regts. or corps & compare the same with the Returns or Muster Rolls which shall accompany the said Pay abstracts.
Secondly, To certify accurately to the Commanding Officer, the sums due to the respective Corps which have been examined as aforesaid.
And Thirdly to transmit to the Accountant of the War Department, copies of all Reports to the Commanding officers & of the Warrants issued them.
It clearly appears to be the design of the Law, that all monies destined for the pay of the Army, should be placed in the hands of the Pay Master of the Troops, there to remain, untill the Muster Rolls & Pay Abstracts have been recd. & exd. & the sums due, certified to the Commandg Officers; And that the Pay Masters of the several Regts. & Corps should be responsible to the Accountant of the War Department, for the distribution of the money among the Troops, according to the rule given in the Rolls on which the advances are made.
To this arrangement of duties, the instructions were confirmed, & unless they are strictly observed by the P M. of the Troops, it is evident that no check can be maintained on the expenditures.
It however appears from the enclosed papers that larger sums have been advanced on vague estimates, when no pay Rolls, & only partial muster Rolls had been exhibited. As this practice if continued will subvert the system for adjusting the Accounts of the Army, I take the liberty to request that some measures may be taken to arrest its progress.

Hon A H


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Henry Knox, 29 August 1793
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Knox, Henry

Treasury DepartmentAug 29. 1793
Sir

I have received a letter from the Comptroller of the Treasury of this date of which the inclosed is a copy. The practice therein mentioned, illustrated by the papers to which it refers, is directly in the face of law and instructions—absolutely inconsistent with order and due responsibility in the public expenditures—and consequently both inadmissible and inexcuseable.
I must therefore request of you Sir to require of Mr. Swan a full explanation of the reasons which could have led him to so great an irregularity and to interpose the most precise and peremptory directions to whomsoever it may concern to avoid a repetition of the like procedure and to conform to the plan which has been marked out. The Treasury cannot discharge the Pay Master from his responsibility for the money committed to him upon such a mode of disbursement. Nor can it continue to advance money for the pay of the troops under so improper an application of it.
If there be any of the details of the plan, which has been transmitted, difficult of execution, the difficulty ought to be clearly and particularly stated—when the representation will be duly considered and any alteration which shall appear necessary will be made. But instead of pursuing this course, there has been a total and unparalled disregard of law and instruction.
I have the honor to be very respectfully   Sir   Your most Obedt & humble servant

The Secretary at War


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Watson, 30 August 1793
From: Watson, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York Augt. 30th. 1793
Sir

A publication appeared sometime since in Greenleaf’s paper, charging you with having moved in Convention, that the Government of the United States should be by a King, Lords, & Commons. I took some pains to discover the author of that piece, but without success. But a conversation lately happened between Comodore Nicholson & Mr. Leonard Bleeker, in the hearing of others, in which the Commodore said, he had read the peice before alluded but doubted the truth of it untill it was lately confirmed by Mr. Abraham Baldwin, who was also a member of the Convention. This Mr. Baldwin did publicly in a pretty large company at the Commodore’s own Table. He said your motion was seconded by Mr. Gover. Morris & that you was so chagrined when it failed that you left the House in disgust; That you returned however on a subsequent day, delivered your sentiments in writing, & Came off to New york, declaring you [would] intermeddle no farther in the matter. Notwithstanding you returned, & assented to the Constitution as it is. This writing he suggested contained your Ideas of the kind of Government proper to be adopted. In repeating from other persons, words are often changed; but the foregoing is the substance of what the Commodore reports Mr. Baldwin to have said. I leave to yourself the expediency of taking any notice of it. Indeed I should not have troubled you with mentioning it were it not for the michevious assiduity of mankind which improves occasions more than things to make ill impressions. As there are evidences enough of the foregoing, it will be needless to use my name in the matter. I will never refuse it however to honest men for honourable purposes.
I am with Real esteem   Your Huml. Servant


Title: Cabinet Meeting. Opinion Respecting the French Consul at Boston, [31 August 1793]
From: Jefferson, Thomas,Hamilton, Alexander,Knox, Henry,Randolph, Edmund
To:

[Philadelphia, August 31, 1793]

At a meeting of the Heads of departments & Attorney General at the President’s on the 31st. day of Aug. 1793.
A letter from mr Gore to mr Lear, dated Boston Aug. 24. was read, stating that the Roland, a privateer fitted out at Boston & furnished with a commission under the government of France, had sent a prize into that port, which being arrested by the Marshal of the district by process from a court of justice, was rescued from his possession by M. du Plaine Consul of France with an armed force from one of the ships of his nation, it is the opinion that the Attorney of the district be instructed to institute such prosecution as the laws will authorize against the said du Plaine; and to furnish to the government of the US. authentic evidence of the facts beforementioned, whereon if it shall appear that the rescue was made by the sd Duplaine, or his order, it is the opinion that his Exequetur should be revoked. Also that the Attorney of the district be desired to furnish copies of his applications or other correspondence with the governor of Massachusets relative to the several privateers & prizes which have been the subjects of his letters to mr Lear.
A letter from mr Maury Consul of the US. at Liverpool dated July 4. 1793. was read, covering an inauthenticated copy of certain Additional instructions from the court of St. James’s to the Commanders of their ships of war dated June 8. 1793. permitting them to stop the vessels of neutral nations laden with corn, flour or meal & bound to any port of France, & to send them into British ports, from whence they are not to be permitted to proceed to the port of any country not in Amity with Gr. Britain. Whereupon it is the opinion that mr Pinckney be provisionally instructed to make representations to the British ministry on the sd instruction as contrary to the rights of neutral nations, and to urge a revocation of the same, and full indemnification to any individuals, citizens of these states, who may in the mean time suffer loss in consequence of the sd instruction. Also that explanations be desired by mr Pinckney of the reasons of the distinction made in the 2d. article of the sd instructions between the vessels of Denmark & Sweden & those of the US. attempting to enter blockaded ports.
Information having been also received thro’ the public papers of a decree passed the National assembly of France revoking the principle of free ships making free goods & enemy ships enemy goods, and making it lawful to seize neutral vessels bound with provisions to any other country & to carry them into the ports of France, there to be landed & paid for, & also of another decree excepting the vessels of the US. from the operation of the preceding decrees, it is the opinion that mr Morris be provisionally instructed, in case the first mentioned decrees have passed & not the exceptions, to make representations thereon to the French government as contrary to the treaty existing between the two countries & the decree relative to provisions contrary also to the law of nations & to require a revocation thereof and full indemnification to any citizens of these states who may in the mean time have suffered loss therefrom, & also in case the sd decrees & the exceptions were both passed that then a like indemnification be made for losses intervening between the dates of the sd decrees & exceptions.
A Letter from the Governor of Georgia of the 13 instant covering the proceedings of a Council of War relatively to an expedition against certain towns of the Creek Nation was communicated for consideration.
It is the opinion that the Governor of Georgia be informed that the President disapproves the measure as unauthorised by law as contrary to the present state of affairs and to the instructions heretofore given and expects that it will not be proceeded in—that requiring the previous consideration of Congress it will be submitted to them at their ensuing session, if circumstances shall not then render it unnecessary or improper: that the Governor of South Carolina be also informed that the cooperation desired of him by the Governor of Georgia is not to be afforded and that the Agent for procuring supplies of provisions for the service of the United States in Georgia, be instructed that no provisions are to [be] furnished on their account for the purpose of the said expedition.

Th: Jefferson
Alexander Hamilton
H Knox
Edm: Randolph.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Jefferson, 2 September 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, September 2, 1793. On November 30, 1793, Hamilton wrote to Jefferson: “I have taken the opinion of the Attorney General in the case of the St Domingo vessels, mentioned in your letter of the 2d of September last.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 2 September [1793]
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Monday Morning 2d Sepr. [1793]
Dear Sir,

Interwoven in the enclosed Address, are Sentiments as difficult to answer, as it would seem odd to pass unnoticed—believing, as I do, that they are the sentiments of a large part of the people of this Country.
I would thank you for making such alterations in the expression of the draft of an answer (enclosed) as in your judgment will make it palatable on all sides, or unexceptionable. The bearer will wait, as I wish to return the answer by the Mail of today.
Yours always

Go: Washington

No matter how rough the answer comes to me, so it can be read.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Nourse, 3 September 1793
From: Nourse, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Treasury Department, Register’s Office, September 3, 1793. “I request that a Warrant may issue… for one Hundred dollars… for Contingent Expences… in stating the public Accounts for the year 1792 which Statement is directed by an order of the House of representatives of the 30th: December 1791.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Nourse, 3 September 1793
From: Nourse, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, September 3, 1793. “Wrote 3d. Sepr. 1793 to the Secretary of the Treasury requesting that a Warrant for twelve hundred dollars might issue in my favor for the purchase of Wood and other incidental Expences of the several Offices of the Treasury Department.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jeremiah Wadsworth, 3 September 1793
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wadsworth, Jeremiah

Philada. Sept 3rd. 1793
My dear Wadsworth

Shortly after I came into Office I remember your having told me that Glauback (whom you represented as a worthless and ungrateful fellow) was indebted to General Greenes estate, I think for money lent him, and that it was your intention to endeavour to effect a purchase of his public claim & allowing him some part of it for his immediate ⟨necessities⟩ letting the residue be an indemnifi⟨cation – – – estate⟩ or in other words go to the ⟨– – – –⟩ that he would ⟨– – – – – – –⟩ something to the ⟨– – – – – – – –⟩ you left the City that you had left the business in charge with Flint.
The ⟨purchase⟩ of the claim was afterwards made through a ⟨second⟩ hand and it appears in fact that Mrs Greene has had the benefit of it.
Fraunces lately a Clerk in my Department prompted partly by resentment and partly I believe by some political enemies gives out that I assisted in this affair as a speculation and to prove it shews the draft of a power for assigning the claim with some corrections which are said to be in my hand writing.
Whether this be so or not, I really do not now recollect, but I think it very possible, that having understood the matter in the light I have stated from you and viewing the transaction ⟨– – –⟩ to eye from my regard to Mrs Greene ⟨– – – –⟩ a power having been ⟨–⟩ to me ⟨– – – –⟩ it would be ⟨– – – – – – – – – – –⟩ some ⟨– – – – – – – – – –⟩ with precision the course of the transaction as it stands in your recollection particularly what passed between you and myself in the first instance. If not inconvenient to you I should even be glad that you would attest to it.
Yrs Affectly

AH
Jereh Wadsworth Esqr


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 5 September 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, September 5, 1793. On September 6, 1793, Washington wrote to Hamilton: “The inclosed was written & sent to your office yesterday.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Willcocks, 5 September 1793
From: Willcocks, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York.Sepr: 5th. 1793
Sir

In going this Morning to the Gaol, I met with Mr. Francis—asked him to let me ⟨see⟩ the pamphlet he had written against Col: Hamilton: this he refuses to do, but read to me a Correspondence between the President, You, and himself, on the subject of the warrants he holds against the U. S.
The burden of his story is this—That he has certain warrants for money agt. the United States. That you have at times, flattered him with the payment thereof and as often disappointed his expectations, Although part of the money has been advanced. That he applied to the President—Who gives him no satisfaction.
That he is not only, not paid, but that tho’ particularly requested, neither the President, nor You, will assign him any Reason. I told him, I supposed he was entitled at least to some reason, for the delay of payment—that I should expect it myself; and so I should, or most certainly make a damn’d noise about it.
As to the Affair of Glausback, he does not pretend that you had any interest, but on the contrary he knows, that the negotiation was solely for the benefit of Mrs Greene. But he reasons thus; that as he knows that you interested yourself, on that occasion to promote the interest of a third Person, from that, & the other ⟨circum⟩stances of the Warrants, he concludes, that he has ⟨a⟩ right to presume that you in this instance, mean to advance the interest of some third person, at his expence. He says he has in his possession the draft in your hand writing, of a power for the purpose of transfering Glausbacks right.
You have inclosed Mr Flints recollection ⟨of⟩ the subject. Col: Duer desires me to inform ⟨you that he⟩ could only certify that the facts in that ⟨– are⟩ substantially true—but that if you wish info⟨rmation as⟩ to any particularly points in which his mem⟨ory⟩ serve him, he shall be glad to oblige you.
Slander is gratifying to the evil dis⟨position⟩ of mankind and you may rest assured, ⟨that as in⟩ all other instances, so in this, nothing to your disadvantage is lost in the course of circulation. The Idea was, that Mr Francis can substantiate some official criminallity against you, of a very serious nature. And yet no one pretends to any precision.
Thus as you have written—The throat of your political reputation is to be cut, in Whispers.
Mr Francis must be made to come out.
Yours &c

Wm Willcocks
Col: Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 6 September 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia Septr. 6th 1793
My Dear Sir

With extreme concern I receive the expression of your apprehensions, that you are in the first stages of the prevailing fever. I hope they are groundless, notwithstanding the malignancy of the disorder is so much abated, as with proper & timely applications not much is to be dreaded.
The inclosed was written & sent to your office yesterday, with direction if you were not there, to be brought back. And it would be a very pleasing circumstance if a change so entirely favourable as to justify it, would permit your attendance, & to bring Mrs. Hamilton with you, to dine with us at three o’clock.
I am always & affectly.   Yours

Go: Washington
Colo. Hamilton.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Affleck, 7 September 1793
From: Affleck, Robert
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Nyork 7 Septr. 1793
Sir,

A Mr. G: Frances, lately from your Office, waited on Thas. Basen, and asked him if he recoleted any thing of a Certificate he had bought of him about two years ago. Basen Answered he did. Frances told Basen he was employed by you to purchase, & that he had of you 50 Dolls. for his trouble And that you then said the profits was to be applied to the benefit of the widow Green, but that you applied them to your own emolument. Two or three days after this interview Basen was waited on by a Lawyer from philadelphia, who put to Basen nearly the same questions as Frances had done, adding “that Basen would recollect himself for that he would be called upon next session.” On Tuesday last a printed pamphlet Containing 23 pages Octavo was handed to Basen by Frances desiring him to peruse it till that day, when Frances returned and presented a paper to Basen to Sign, but Basen declined signing it, for the fact is he can neither read nor write. The Pamphlet was given to me to peruse, by a Neighbour, but being sent in a few minutes I had not leisure to examine it. I have tried to get it since but cannot.
I have mentioned the affair to Mr. E: Benson—And I doubt not but he has Notified you by this time.
My Sole motive in troubling you with this Communication is to put you on your guard, that you may be able to thwart the efforts of Malice envy and treachery, which Generally & particularly in this Case are Combined against uncommon abilities and worth.
With great respect, I am   Sir, your humbe. St.

R: Affleck
If my Services Can be of any use in this business you may command them.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Duer, 7 September 1793
From: Duer, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York Sept. 7th. 1793.
Sir

I have perused the Letter of this Date which Mr. Hall has addressed to you; and in justice to him am obliged to declare that, at my Desire he visited several Places in the State of New Jersey, previous to the Act of Incorporation of the Manufacturing Society, in order to ascertain the most Eligible Situation for the Seat of that Establishment. Exclusive of this he attended the Legislature at Trenton at my Request during the whole Time the Bill was in Agitation, and rendered essential Service in forwarding it. Whether these Services, and Employment of Time Entitle him to Compensation the Directors can best determine. For my own Part I do not hesitate to declare that If I had any Influence in the Determination, the Claims of Mr. Hall on this Account, would have their Weight.
I am Sir, with Sentiments of Esteem Your Obet. Hle. Sert.

Wm. Duer
Alexr. Hamilton Esqr.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Nourse, 7 September 1793
From: Nourse, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Treasury DepartmentRegisters Office 7th. Septemer. 1793
Sir,

Application has been made to me by several of the Clerks in this Office to be absent under an apprehension that the malignant Disease (now in the neighbourhood of the Treasury) renders their attendance dangerous to themselves and their Families. I have been reluctant to comply with their request from a persuasion that if this is granted to one it would be a precedent to all, and the State of the records will not admit (whilst the other offices are continued open) a suspension. There is indeed some part of the Current business of this Office that could not well be delayed, such as forming the Dividends of Interest becoming due the 30th. Instant & the forwarding of Marine Papers to the Collectors; this however might be transacted in a suitable house could one be procured in a part of the City not dangerous from Infection. The Comptroller of the Treasury in a Conversation with him on this subject desired me to acquaint you herewith so that on your coming to Town tomorrow such an arrangement: might be made as under every Consideration might be deemed expedient.
I have the Honor to be sir   Your most obedient & most Humble servant.

Honble: Alexr: Hamiltonsecy. of the Treasury.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Peter Colt, 8 September 1793
From: Colt, Peter
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Paterson [New Jersey] 8th Sepr. 1793
Sir,

Yesterday Mr. Binks handed me your favour, without date, accompanied with one from Mr. Cay of the 2d Instant. That to me had been broken open & Sealed again, which did not give me a very favourable impression of the bearer. Mr. Binks claims to have been at the head of a considerable Business, and to have received three Guineas ⅌ Week as a compensation in England. He had formed expectations of geting better pay here. It appears to me that the Society have no means of employing, usefully, Such a person as Binks claims to be without Mr. Pearce or Mr. Marshall as discharged. The other two Men I supposed might have been usefull to Marshall; as one was a white Smith, & the other a Carpentiere—the smith is much wanted at this time, as the one Marshall has hitherto employed has left him the week past. I sent them with a note to mr Marshall, who unfortunately was unwell & did not see them. He called early this morning at the Tavern where they put up & they were all gone for New York.
We are pushing forward the work at the Canal & dam as well as Marshalls Mill. Yesterday we put the Flood Gates in the Rock at Garritse’s Gap—& I think the canal thro’ the rock will be compleated before the end of this month. We have the dam at the highth of the proposed Canal from thence to the mill—that is to the bottom of the Canal. I hope by the end of the month to compleat the dam & the Canal to No. 14. We shal then only have to carry it along the side of the hill to the Mill; which will be a work of no great expence, as it respects either time or Money. If the person who has engaged to Staunch the dam & Canal does not deceive me as to his abilities & knowledge in this particular Business, I feel confident we Shall get full possession of the waters of the Passaick this fall.
I am with the greatest consideration   Sir   your most obt. & very humb Servt

P. Colt
Alexr. Hamilton Esquire


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the College of Physicians, [11 September 1793]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: College of Physicians

[Philadelphia, September 11, 1793]
Gentlemen,

Motives of humanity and friendship to the Citizens of Philadelphia, induce me to address to you this letter, in the hope that it may be in some degree instrumental in diminishing the present prevailing calamity. It is natural to be afflicted not only at the mortality which is said to obtain, but at the consequences of that undue panic which is fast depopulating the city, and suspending business both public and private.
I have myself been attacked with the reigning putrid fever, and with violence—but I trust that I am now compleatly out of danger. This I am to attribute, under God, to the skill and care of my friend Doctor Stevens, a gentleman lately from the island of St. Croix, one to whose talents I can attest, from an intimate acquaintance begun in early youth, whose medical opportunities have been of the best, and who has had the advantage of much experience both in Europe (having been in Edinburgh some years since, when the same fever raged there) and in the West-Indies, where it is frequent. His mode of treating the disorder varies essentially from that which has been generally practised—And I am persuaded, where pursued, reduces it to one of little more than ordinary hazard.
I know him so well, that I entertain no doubt, that he will freely impart his ideas to you, collectively or individually, and being in my own person a witness to the efficacy of his plan, I venture to believe, that if adopted, and if the courage of the Citizens can be roused, many lives will be saved, and much ill prevented. I may add, that as far as can be yet pronounced, its efficacy has been alike proved on Mrs. Hamilton, who is now in the disorder, contracted from me, with every favourable appearance.
In giving you this information, Gentlemen, I have done what I thought discharging a duty. I only add, that if any conference with Doctor Stevens, is desired, that he is going to-morrow to New-York, from which journey he has been detained several days, on my account.

I am, Gentlemen, with respect,   your obedient servant,

A. Hamilton.
September, 11.

He lodges at Mrs. William’s, corner of Spruce and Third-Streets.

College of Physicians


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Jefferson, 12 September 1793
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia Sep. 12. 1793.
Sir

I have the honor to inclose you a paper delivered me by mr Bournonville on the part of the Minister of France reclaiming against the demand of tonnage on the vessels which came hither from the West Indies in their late calamity. It is urged that they were driven out of their harbours by superior force, & obliged to put to sea without water or stores, & therefore to make the first ports where they could be relieved, which constitute in their opinion those circumstances of distress and necessity which exempt vessels from the payment of tonnage. This case belonging to your department, I take the liberty, in the absence of the President & to save time, to transmit it to you directly, for your consideration.
I have the honor to be with great respect   Sir   Your most obedt. servt

Th: Jefferson
The Secretary of the Treasury.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Henry Vandyke, 13 September 1793
From: Vandyke, Henry
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Burlington [New Jersey] Septr. 13th. 1793.
My Dearest Sir,

Permit me to join with All ranks in the general Joy diffused upon hearing of your safe recovery from the present Malignant complaint which prevails in Philadelphia and hath proved fatal to so many of its Inhabitants.
Blessed be God for His rich Mercy in preserving you & yours from the impending Judgment. May we seriously and with the most fervent gratitude offer up our United praises to the Supreme Disposer of All Events, for this fresh instance of His Divine Favor toward these United States in sparing your Valuable Life to your Country, your Family, and Friends. Accept, My dearest Sir, of this tribute of congratulation, from your ever obliged friend, who with the most heartfelt sensibility, offers his unfeigned thanks to Heaven for your recovery. May Heaven long preserve you and yours and give you its choicest Blessings. Mrs. Vandyke and all my Children who have lately experienced your benevolence join me in United Praises to the Almighty from whom cometh every good gift and from whose Hands alone are the Issues of Life & Death for this great Mercy vouchsafed to you and yours. Heaven will accept—Heaven will still continue to Bless preserve & keep you—so most devoutly prays:
My Dearest Sir,   Your ever Obliged; & Most Obedt. Servant,

Henry Vandyke

P.S. It may be useful to know the manner in which you was treated by your Physician under the disease—as soon as you can without fatigue give the Communication directed to me at Burlington where I now reside it would greatly Oblige Us here.

The Honl Alexander Hamilton Esquire


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Wadsworth, 13 September 1793
From: Wadsworth, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Hartford Sepr. 13th 1793
Dear Sir

I was out of town when your letter reached this place and have this moment returned. Glaubeck when under the Command of General Green persuaded the General to endorse his Bills which came back protested, and when Glaubeck made application to Congress for Compensation, I opposed his claim, and considered him what General Green calld him in his letters to Congress then on file (an imposture) when he had obtained a Grant he promised to apply some of it to the discharge of General Greens demand, but he avoided me. I went to your Office and finding he had actually taken out his Certificates, and not finding him at his lodgings I returned to the Office and Mr. Nourse showed me the Books, & that some foreign Officers debts had been transfered, I went directly to you & asked your Aid, as I was satisfied Glaubeck intended to sell his certificate and fly the Country. According to the best of my recollection you drew me a power, but Glaubeck got information that I was after him & kept concealed. Being obliged to leave New York I employed Mr. Flint Who told me he could find him, but he sold the Certificate I think to Francis who Mr. Flint purchased it of, and Mrs. Green actually had it. I have no doubt Mr. Flint can give full information. How Francis came by the power I know not, but believe he was directed to Copy it. When I accounted with Mr. Flint for the purchase I charged the Money to Mrs. Green as it had cost so much I did not think it an Object for the Estate, she has since repaid me. I am Dear Sir Your Humb. Servt

Jere Wadsworth

Alexander Hamilton Es


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Steele, 17 [September] 1793
From: Steele, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Salisbury [North Carolina] 17th. [September] 1793
Sir,

Apologies are always unpleasant, and if they were not, I am vain enough to hope that you wou’d consider one for this intrusion, superfluous.
To a delicate and cultivated mind it is painfull to write or speak of One’s self, to me it is peculiarly so, and nothing cou’d have surmounted my reluctance on this occasion, but the perfect respect which I feel for your character, and an entire confidence in the generosity of your disposition.
A great mind scarcely capable of doing wrong itself readily overlooks the weaknessess and imperfections of another, and it is a characteristic, not the least amiable, of such a mind, to inspire respectfull confidence while it represses, even the appearance of impertinence.
Without trespassing further upon your time give me leave to inform you, that I am extreemly desirous to be employed in some respectable situation by the Executive of the united States, and to solicit your interference in my favor is the principal object of this letter.
Disclaiming any sort of vanity which might be supposed to spring up in a young mans mind from such a reflection, I am conscious that at the next elections I could be placed in either house of Congress. But this would not suit my circumstances, still less my disposition. Some reasons on this head I have detailed in a letter to Mr. Coxe, which he is at liberty to shew you if required.
Diffidence respecting a voluntary offer of my services to a government in which I am scarcely known, and living in a state unfavorably situated, deterred me from making this application sooner; but such scruples have at length given way to a conviction that I coud be instrumental in promoting the public interest, and perhaps never more essentially than during the next sessions of Congress.

That I possess the disposition to be so, need not be added. To support a constitution which has cost the best people in the Union so much pains to establish, to counteract the nefarious designs of its enemies, and to rally round the Federal government as a Standard where our most precious interests are well secured, is the duty of men who possess talents, property, reputation, or influence. Of this, if ever I doubted, my doubts have been removed by late political occurrences, none of which are more alarming to the friends of systematic and stable government, than the unwise, indecent, and poisonous opposition, to the declaration of neutrality. The decided and patriotic part which the President took on that subject, has raised him some enemies here as well as in Philada. but it has encreased the veneration and love of all the sober minded, welwishers of National prosperity. Our state elections are over, I have accepted a seat in the Assembly, Colo. Davie whom you have often heard me speak of, is also in, and if there can be a necessity for such a measure, or if it wou’d be even satisfactory, I am sure the Legislature woud express in decided terms an approbation of the wisdom which dictated that Proclamation. Though I am sure that success woud attend such a motion through both houses, yet I cannot help questioning the propriety of an individual state interfereing at all, either to approve or censure the administration of the general Government.
No step shall be taken in relation to it without due deliberation, and advice wou’d not be unacceptable. Neutrality is the wish of every good man in this State who has sense enough to know his country’s solid interest, and the President may be assured of this, without our troubling him to answer a profusion of addresses.
If you will take the trouble to read the latter part of the inclosed, you will percieve in fewer words than I cou’d express it, what we think of a certain man and some of his transactions in the diplomatic line. Such a consummate instance of Jacobine impudence, must forever remain unparalelled in the annals of this country.
I have the honor to be,   Sir   With perfect respect   Your most humble Servant

Jno. Steele
Colo. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Ellery, 23 September 1793
From: Ellery, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Newport [Rhode Island] September 23, 1793. “… The Office of District Attorney for this District has become vacant by the death of Mr. Channing. After having been confined to his house between two and three months he died last Saturday morning. I make this early communication; because the Interest of the United States may require that the vacancy should be soon filled.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Munson, 23 September 1793
From: Munson, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New Haven, Connecticut, September 23, 1793. On November 11, 1793, Hamilton wrote to Munson: “Your letters of the 23d, 28th, 30th of September … have been duly received.” Letter of September 23 not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas L. Ogden, 26 September 1793
From: Ogden, Thomas L.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[September 23, 1793. On September 26, 1793, Oliver Wolcott, Jr., wrote to Ogden and referred to “Your Letter to the Secy. of the Treasury dated Sept. 23d. 1793.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 23 September 1793
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Custom HouseDistrict of Providence 23rd. Septr. 1793
Sir

I have experienced Great anxiety on account of your late alarming indisposition but am now happily relieved in perusing your Letter of the 11th Instant addressed to the Medical Society, announcing your recovery from the malignant Fever prevalent in Philadelphia to which many worthy Citizens have Fallen victims. Permit me Sir to congratulate you on the happy recovery of your Health, an event so Deeply Interesting to america & respectfully to assure you, that I most Sincerely hope a Life so distinguished and essentially usefull to the Nation (as your’s has proved) may under Divine providence be long very long preserved. I regret Sir, the necessity I am under of Acquainting you, that Mr. Channing, the District Attorney Deceased on Friday evening last, after a long & Distressing Illness—in him the Public have lost a Worthy and usefull member of Society, and to his Family it is irreparable.
The Suits of Welcome Arnold and Edward Dexter now pending before the Superiour of this State against me in the Case of the Brigantine Neptune, will be brought before the adjourned Court which meets in this Town on the ninth day of Octr. next, but the unfortunate event of Mr. Channings Death, will induce me to move for a Continuance of the Suits to the Term in March next, as I do not think myself (Under the present Circumstances of the Case) Authorized to engage new Councill and to Enter upon a Defense of those Suits without your particular advice on the Subject.
I am &c.

J. Olney Collr.
Alexander Hamilton Esqr.Secretary of the Treasury.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the President and Directors of the New York Office of Discount and Deposit of the Bank of the United States, 25 September 1793
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: President and Directors of the New York Office of Discount and Deposit of the Bank of the United States

Albany September 25. 1793
Gentlemen

The necessity I have been under of travelling for the more speedy recovery of my strength, impaired by a late fit of illness, will prevent my making arrangements in the usual mode for the payment of the ensuing quarter’s Interest on the Public Debt payable in the City of New York.
I am therefore to request that you will cause the Quarter’s Interest to be paid in the accustomed manner, notwithstanding the want of form. And upon my return to Philadelphia, which I expect will be in a fortnight, I will put the business in order. Do me the favour to make known to the commissioner of loans that you are prepared to proceed in the payment as usual.
With respect   I am   Gentlemen   Your obedient servant

Alex Hamilton.
The President & Directorsof the Office of Discount &Deposit of the Bank of the UStatesNew York


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 25 September 1793
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Mount Vernon Septr 25th: 1793
My dear Sir  (Private)

I congratulate you & Mrs. Hamilton very sincerely on your recoveries from the malignant fever which prevailed in Philadelphia; and hope you are both restored to perfect health, and that no other of the family has been siezed with the disorder. In these sentiments Mrs. Washington cordially unite with me.
From Mr. Jefferson who has just passed this—from Genl Knox who has set out for Boston—and from the accts. published in the Gazettes—I conceive, that under the most favourable change that can reasonably be expected, the first of November is as soon as business can, with safety, be transacted in the City of Philadelphia; but it appears necessary, at all events, that the heads of Departments should assemble—if not at that place, yet in the vicinity of it (say Germantown) at that time; where I also shall be, if well.
My compliments to Mrs. Hamilton, & respects to Genl. Schuyler & family if you are with them. I am always with much truth
Your Affecte.

Go: Washington
Colo. Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Abraham Yates, Junior, 26 September 1793
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Yates, Abraham, Jr.

Albany Sept. 26. 1793
Sir

General Schuyler shewed me yesterday a letter which he had received from you. It was then for the first time, I understood, that

I had come to this place upon conditions; which General Schuylers paternal anxiety led him to submit to, but which are of a nature too derogatory to my rights, as a citizen of this State, to be permitted by me to continue in force. I feel that by doing it I should betray those rights, and none of the principles which have hitherto governed my Conduct will allow me to be accessory, by my acquiescence, to so improper a sacrifice.
As I desire most sincerely to avoid misunderstanding with the Magistracy or Citizans of this place, I think it proper to place before you in the first instance certain facts, to the exact truth I pledge my Honor.
I undertook the journey to this place, upon the urgent advice of my Phisician accompanyed with his assurance that I might do it with perfect safety to myself and to others. I began it, for greater caution, two days later than he had recommended. We left our own house on Sunday morning the 15 instant, after haveing previously taken the air for two or three days successivly in our Carriage.
Our intention was to pass the River at Kings Ferry, but when arrived there we found there were no adequate means of taking over our Carriages which led us to take the rout th[r]ough the Clove and by way of New Burgh. These circumstances renderd our journey more than usually irksome and fatiguing. We travelled different times till Eleven OClock at night, and the day of our arrival at the ferry opposite to this City, we came no less a distance than sixty four Miles. The obstacles which induced us to remain there through the night, ill enough accommodated, certainly not of a very restorative nature; and yet with all this fatigue and embarrasment Mrs Hamilton and my self are at this moment in better Health than before we were attacked with the desease which is the Subject of so much alarm.
Moreover, as well for our own safty as from an unwillingness to spread a dangerous desese through the Country—we were particularly carefull in leaving be hind us every article of Cloathing which had been on us or near us from the Earliest approach of the Complaint, except perhaps some washed linen which was first thoroughly washed. With the exception of washed articles, neither of us has brought a single thing, which from its nature or situation, could possibly have imbibed infection. Indeed all such of my Cloathing as were capable of conveying infection were adapted to the Summer; those I brought with me are suited to Winter.
With regard to the washed articles common sense will at once pronounce that there can be no possibility of danger.

This detail is of a nature to remove from every reasonable mind all apprehension concerning us.
Either we have had the desease, or our Phisicians and ourselves have mistaken something else for it.
On the first Supposition, it is obvious, after all that has taken place, that no particle of infection can remain about us; on the second, it must be equally obvious that none can exist, when I inform you that our Summer residence has been two Miles and a half out of Philadelphia and that it is upwards of three weeks since either of us has been in that City. In the first case, what ever infection may have existed must have been compleatly discharged. In the last, the lapse of time concurring with the fatigue of so long a journey proves that none can have existed.
With regard to our servants it was my original intention (to avoid multiplying causes of inquietude to our particular connections or the citizens at large) to leave them at some place on the other side of the River where they now are and will remain long enough to dispel all apprehension on their account and give intire satisfaction. My carriages also are and will continue there. But we cannot conveniently be here without our cloathing; and as to being ourselves confined under the eye of a guard or exposing the family of General Schuyler to the mortifying situation of being cut off from their usual intercourse with the Town & their friends, it is absolutely inadmissible.
I hope I shall never be wanting in due consideration for the feelings of any community. I am sure that my regard for the citizens of Albany predisposes me to every reasonable accommodation to their wishes; and when at my own command I trust they will have no cause to think that I have slighted the indications of their present state of mind. But there are bounds to every thing. I can make no concessions inconsistent with due attention to my own delicacy or to my rights as a Citizen.
I am far from disapproving in the Magistracy or Citizens of Albany a careful attention to their own preservation from a contagious disease. But permit me to say they are both under an indispensable obligation to regulate their precautions by the rules of reason moderation & humanity. They are not at liberty to sport with the rights and feelings of a fellow Citizen. They are not at liberty to adopt a principle of conduct which if generally pursued in the full extent of its consequences would expose him to perish in the fields without subsistence & without shelter.
In our case there is the fullest evidence from the circumstances that there is no just ground of apprehension. The Physicians of your City have confirmed this inference by their unanimous testimony. This is and ought to be sufficient.
I am therefore Sir to declare to you that after the present day all stipulations which are said to have been made by General Schuyler will be considered as at an end. And we shall all think ourselves free from any other restraints than our own decisions and prudence shall dictate.
If I hear nothing from you in the course of the day I shall take it for granted that this declaration is not unsatisfactory. If I am told the contrary I propose tomorrow to recross the River with Mrs. Hamilton in order to put every thing where it was before any stipulations were made. I shall then repass the River with her to proceed to her Father’s House.
The result will determine whether from causeless apprehension, in violation of law & right, of that protection which is the primary object of Society—citizens are to be excluded from an asylum in the bosom of their family; in other words whether a Citizen has rights or not; and whether a public Officer who persevering in a faithful discharge of his duty, undeterred by considerations of personal hazard has happened to contract a contagious disease is, in return, when perfectly recovered to be deprived by arbitrary and tyrannical means of the essential rights of a member of the Society—merely because it has been his lot to have had a dangerous disease.
In the execution of this plan, which force alone can interrupt, I count equally on the exertions of the Magistracy to prevent lawless violence and on the good dispositions of the body of the Citizens, who will respect their own security & rights too much to permit those of a fellow Citizen to be violated. With respect
I am Sir   Your Obedient serv

Alex Hamilton
Abraham Yates EsqrMayor of the City of Albany


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Abraham Yates, Junior, 27 September 1793
From: Yates, Abraham, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

A[l]bany Septr. 27th. 1793In Common Council
Sir

Your Letter of yesterday has been received and the Common council have requested me to make to you the following Observations.
You must have misapprehended facts and circumstances, for otherwise it is impossible to account for the complexion of your Letter, it is therefore necessary briefly to remind you, that for reasons which still appear, to be sufficiently weighty the Common Council have entered into certain Resolutions, for the purpose of preventing an introduction into this place of the Contagion which has proved so destructive in Philadelphia. Among other matters it was Ordered that no person Appearing on Examination to be infected, or coming from an infected place should be permitted to enter this City, those Measures were taken prior to any Report here of your Journey to this place, and therefore could not possibly have aimed at you in particular. When the report of that sort Arrived, a letter was addressed to one of your nearest connections with a request that you should as early as possible be informed of our determinations, in Order that you might be Apprised thereof in time to make arrangements accommodating to yourself, on the occasion. This we considered as an act of civility partial to you, by which perhaps we for once transgressed the direct line of duty which we as a Body ought to pursue for it is doubtfull whether in Similar instances the same attention to others woud have been paid. The respect due to you[r] high character can only be our Apology.
The certificate given to you by the Physicians was inadequate under our regulations to give you admission into the City, for we are not informed by it that you did not come from a place infected with the Contagious disease. This was made an essential requisite. The permit given by the Mayor did not release Genl. Schuyler from his engagements with respect to an intercourse with the Town. On the contrary it ought to have been presumed that an unreserved reliance on those engagements were the reasons which induced the granting of the permit.
We have not been informed till the receipt of your letter of the peculiar circumstances which you have stated to us as a rational plea why you ought to be a subject of exemption from the force of our Regulations; We take it for granted that you had timely notice of our Resolves and must have seen that your case came within the purvieu of them. Had you Sir at first pointed out to us your peculiar circumstances and Solicited the Corporation for an Act in your favour, there is no doubt that the Altercation which has taken place, and which cannot be more disagreeable to you than it is to us would have been avoided, for the Common Council are always disposed to act with reason and Moderation.
The Common Council cannot suffer the indignity of seeing their Laws transgressed with impunity, much less Sported with, nor can it be expected that they should relax in favor of any man, before sufficient reasons are furnished to induce them so to do, and we trust that as we are but the representatives of the City that the exertions of the Citizens may at all times be commanded to enforce obedience to the Acts of the Corporation and to Support its dignity.
Whether our Acts are proper Objects of legal defiance from any man, may be made, by those who choose it, a Subject of after consideration, but you may rest assured that those are absolutely mistaken who may concieve that intimations of this nature and menaces can prevent us from fulfilling our duties to our constituents, or divert our Attention from the welfare of our Citizens.
A Step on our part Originally intended solely for your Accomodation has unavoidably involved us in an irksome correspondence, of Which it is desired this may be the End, as we trust that the cause thereof is removed by the inclosed Resolution.
I am Sir   with due respect   your most obedt. Servt.

Abm: Yates Junr Mayor
Alexander Hamilton Esquire


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Munson, 28 September 1793
From: Munson, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New Haven, Connecticut, September 28, 1793. On November 11, 1793, Hamilton wrote to Munson: “Your letters of the 23d, 28th, 30th of September … have been duly received.” Letter of September 28 not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the President and Directors of the Bank of the United States, 29 September 1793
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: President and Directors of the Bank of the United States

Albany Sepr. 29. 1793
Gentlemen

At my departure on the journey which brought me hither I requested the Comptroller of the Treasury to arrange with you the payment of any monies which should appear to him indispensable to the public service; with an assurance that I would ratify what was done and on my return cover it in due form. My confidence in your disposition to facilitate the operations of the Department and a persuasion that you would have intire reliance on any communication of Mr. Woolcott on my part led me to yield the more readily to the considerations, which after my late illness dissuaded me from business; and accordingly I omitted at that time any written communication.
I have however thought it adviseable to confirm to you by letter the arrangement then made and to request the continuance of your cooperation.
If my health remains as good as it now is, I expect in a fortnight from this time to be at my post in Philadelphia.

With respect I have the honor to be   Gentlemen   Your obedient servant

A Hamilton
The President Directors & Co.of the Bank of The United States


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Commissioners of Loans, 30 September 1793
From: Treasury Department
To: Commissioners of Loans

Albany, September 30, 1793.
Sir,

A short absence from the Seat of Government, for the Recovery of my Health, renders it impossible to conduct the Transfers of Stock, from office to office, as heretofore: I am, therefore, to request, that you will consider Warrants, without my Signature, countersigned by the Comptroller, with the usual authentication of the Register, or one of his Clerks, on his behalf, and accompanied with the usual Certificate of the Commissioner of Loans, from whose office the Transfer is to be made, as equivalent, till further order, to Warrants signed by me, and, in other respects, in due form.
I am, with consideration,   Sir,   Your obedient servant,

Alexander Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 30 September 1793
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

Albany, Sepr. 30. 1793
Sir

I have thought it adviseable to establish during my absence a substitute for the mode of transferring Stock from Office to Office heretofore in practice at the Treasury. The inclosed letters by duplicates to the respective Commissioners of Loans from Jersey inclusively to Georgia specify it. Please to have the blanks filled with the names of those Commissioners severally and have the letters forwarded. I shall myself forward similar letters by duplicates to all the states North of Jersey.
You will observe the object is to have as little departure as possible from the accustomed process. With this view, if a competent Clerk of my immediate Office can be commanded, it will be well for the warrants to originate there, to be authenticated by such Clerk at foot of the place destined for my signature & leaving a sufficient space for it.
With consideration & esteem   I am Sir   Your obedient servant

Alexander Hamilton

P.S. Transfers to and from the clerk of the Treasury will of course follow a Regimen.

Oliver Woolcott Esqr
Comptroller


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Andrew G. Fraunces, 1 October 1793
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Fraunces, Andrew G.

[Albany, October 1, 1793]

Contemptible as you are, what answer could I give to your last letter?
The enclosed is a copy of what will shortly appear in one of the Gazettes of the city of New-York.

A. Hamilton
Albany, October 1, 1793.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Dewhurst, 2 October 1793
From: Dewhurst, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[London, October 2, 1793. On April 1, 1794, Dewhurst wrote to Hamilton and referred to “my letter of the 2 Octr.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Wilhem and Jan Willink, Nicholaas and Jacob Van Staphorst, and Nicholas Hubbard, 4 October 1793
From: Willink, Wilhem,Willink, Jan,Van Staphorst, Nicholaas,Van Staphorst, Jacob,Hubbard, Nicholas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Amsterdam, October 4, 1793. On October 15, 1793, Willink, Van Staphorst, and Hubbard wrote to Hamilton: “We beg leave to refer You to our last Respects of 4 Instant.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 7 October 1793
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Custom HouseDistrict of Providence 7th Octr. 1793
Sir

The Office of District Attorney for Rhode Island being vacant by the Death of William Channing Esqr. and some of the Merchants having recommended to the President of the United States, David Howell Esqr. to Succeed to that Office, and knowing him to be very much under the Influence of those Characters who have long and with violence, opposed me in a Just Execution of the revenue laws—I have considered it my Duty to State in the Enclosed Letter, to the President, this Circumstance in the Hope that it may (with other Information he may receive on this Subject) prevent an appointment so much desired by those who have recommended him—and which I fear would very much endanger A due Collection of the revenue, for it is more than probable he would embarrass rather than Support the officers of the Customs in a Just Discharge of their Duty.
I have taken the Liberty to recommend to the President, David Leonard Barnes Esqr. of this Town attorney at Law, as a gentleman well Quallified to fill the Office of District of Attorney. He is a Person of Fair Character and Deportment in life and is deservedly Esteemed for his independent Principles and Tallents in the Law. Should the President not make the Appointment before you See or hear from him—you will Sir render a Service to the Nation by mentioning this Gentleman as a Suitable Person for the District Attorney, and who I am pursuaded will do honor to the Appointment should he be so fortunate as to obtain it—and he will I firmly believe Co-opperate on all occasions with the officers of the Customs in a faithfull execution of the revenue Laws, so Essential to the support of the National Government, and may I be allowed to say, its Existance.
I have the Honor to be &c.

Jereh. Olney Collr.

P. S. Mr. Howell is Attorney against me in the Suits of Messrs. Arnold & Dexter.

Secretary of the Treasury.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tobias Lear, 10 October 1793
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York October 10th: 1793
Dear Sir

I shall sail from this place for London early in November, and if before that time you can find it convenient to give me the letters which you had the goodness to promise I shall esteem it a mark of peculiar favor. I shall go from London to Amsterdam and letters to our Bankers or other respectable Characters in the latter place might greatly facilitate my business, by shewing them that I am not an unknown adventurer.
I have just come to this place from New Hampshire and I can assure you that in every part of New England where I have been, there appears the strongest marks of attachment to our Government and the estimation in which they hold you individually has lately been proved by the deep regret & unfeigned sorrow which appeared on a report of your death—and the marks of joy & satisfaction exhibited when the report was known to be unfounded. That you may be long preserved in health & usefulness to your Country is the earnest prayer of your fellow Citizens.
Please to make my best respects acceptable to Mrs. Hamilton and receive my sincere wishes for the health & happiness of yourself and of those in whom your happiness depends.
With sincere respect & attachment   I am, Dear sir,   truly your’s

Tobias Lear
Colo. Hamilton.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Wilhem and Jan Willink, Nicholaas and Jacob Van Staphorst, and Nicholas Hubbard, 15 October 1793
From: Willink, Wilhem,Willink, Jan,Van Staphorst, Nicholaas,Van Staphorst, Jacob,Hubbard, Nicholas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Amsterdam 15 October 1793.
Sir!

We beg leave to refer You to our last Respects of 4 Instant, since when we have received Your esteemed favor of 12 August, authorizing us to open a Loan for the United States, of Three Millions of Florins, provided it should be obtainable at Five per Cent Interest and Four per Cent Charges.
We are happy, that all our late advices, will have anticipated to You the impossibility of succeeding to raise a Loan here at almost any rate, during the present critical situation of the Politics in Europe. The progress made in placing the Bonds of the Loan for the Bank of the United States, of which You will doubtless have been regularly informed, must have Convinced You too strongly of this Truth, not to have prevented Your making any Reliance upon such a Loan, to face the large Payments the United States have to make here in January next and the successive months: For which we in consequence expect Your remittances.
Permit us Sir, to suggest to Your most serious Consideration, whether in times like the present, It is prudent by Your limitations of the Charges, to run the risque of defeating an important Loan, which might be practicable at a somewhat higher rate of Charges, that is but an allowance in the first Instance.
In the actual Case no disappointment has been occasioned, because the Business is not at all feasible: But we dare say You would have been sorry if the matter had miscarried merely because You had limited the Charge one per Cent too low.
Should any favorable Circumstances occurr, to render the loan You direct, obtainable at Your Limitations we shall eagerly avail ourselves of same, and experience infinite pleasure in giving You the most early Intelligence of our successs.
We shall in consequence of Mr Short’s orders, duly honor Mr. deWolf of Antwerp his drafts on us, for payment of the Interest due there by the United States the 1 December next, for which He drew last Year Hd. Cy. f 88,841. 9.—. A sum exceeding the Monies of the United States in our hands.
We are &c.

W. & J. W.
N. & J. V. S. & H.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Pierre Charles L’Enfant, 16 October 1793
From: L’Enfant, Pierre Charles
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New york October 16. 1793.
Dear sir

I this moment receive a letter from Colt of paterson on the subject of my account with the society. He Inclose to me a late resolve on the same, together with a bill of charges against me both which Evince the already manifested Intent to Wrong and speculate of my own Expences.
In the account I am charged with articles I had nothing to do with and the better in order to reduce the Ballance due me. I am worried that an objection may be made to my having right to the amount of a full year of Sallery as had been agreed and colt Further observe he believe I am not to Expect being pay of the Ballance which may be acknowleged to be due to me Because says he—the Cashier will refuse my draft for the said unless he has first obtained from me Certain plans, which by the by, I never have been Engaged to make and much beg to leave in other people hands for to Execute.
Privy as you have been with my Engagements in the First Instance of the business you will recollect I never would have concerned myself in it had it not been that I ceeded to your wish and trusted on your friendly Support. Therefore after the manner thing are turned out you will not find it amiss I Should avail of your visit to this place in requesting you to see about this affaire so that matter may be settled right. My only wish is, I will own it to you, that it should be done without need of my meeting any of the persons of whom depend the settlement, as after the manner them and two or three more of the directors have used with me this meeting may prove disagreeable to some of us if not to both parties.
I join here copies of the accounts above mentioned and in order to Enable your jugement I have added some observation respecting those articles I have objection to be charged with as also the reasons for the reclamation I make. It is indeed with reluctance I do this and I should more Chearfully have given up all my just claims were it not, first, that my Circumstance cannot admit of this and, next, that supposing it should such mark of desinterestedness would be here mispalced, & if I have willingly been the dup of my Zeal in several Instances my motives may be accounted for and you know well the considerations which then determined me but now you will agree with me that generosity should be madness.
I must observe that I directed the surveyor and overseer at paterson to demand from Colt a state ment of all Expences of the work performed under me which I wished to prove I have not caused much above of 20,000 dollars Expences to the Society and that out of that sum all the materials he has since made use of had been paid for—which is one amongst the many rascally trick he use to make his labour appear more Economique—he possitively refused giving such an Extract and would not permit anyone to look in the Book on my account. Excuse me long letter and believe me

with great respect   your most obedient humble servant

P Charles LEnfant
Alexander Amilton secretary of the treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Hugh Williamson, 16 October 1793
From: Williamson, Hugh
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York 16th Octr: 1793
Dr: Sir

At my Lodgings in Philada., Francis’s Hotel, I left three Trunks vizt large Trunk, flat Top. 1 small Trunk, portable in the Hand, both Philada made. & 1 middle sized Trunk, french manufacture, cover’d as I believe, with Hogs Skin. In this middle sized Trunk are many valuable Papers to which it may be necessary I should have access by some Friend. The Trunk has two Locks of which the Keys are inclosed. The large Lock, the Pipe being broken, can only be opened by holding the Key close to the front as it turns. You was so good as to propose taking the Care of that Trunk with the Papers. Inclosed are the Keys. Mr Francis will deliver the Trunk to any Person who may call for it at my Request. My Name I believe is on the Trunk in Ink on a Piece of Wood that passes along the Top.
Inclosed is a Line for Mr Francis. His Wife can read.   I am  With great Respect: yours

Hu Williamson
Alexa. Hamilton Esqr.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Gouverneur Morris, 17 October 1793
From: Morris, Gouverneur
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Paris 17 October 1793.
My dear Sir

Mr. Moscow Livingston delivered to me yours of the 25th. of July. He says that you alone gave him an Idea of this Country like the Reality. His Astonishment proves that he did not beleive you and would you hear him you might in your Turn be astonished to find that your sound Understanding while it grasp’d the future Event had never contemplated the progressive Circumstances. I leave to others the painful Task of drawing Pictures which to resemble the Truth must like an indian Warrior be painted red and black. It is in your Character of Financier that I transmit the annexed Report which suspended for a few doubtful Days the Weight which with crushing Force falls on the monied Men. Early in 1789 I ventured to declare, from what I then observd, that the Laws of Property being violated all would in their Turns be sacrificed on the same alter. Already the Church the Magistrature the Nobility have passed away. Bankers Merchants and Manufacturers are now in the Crucible. I leave to your algebraic Science to resolve the Problem of how long a supposed Society can exist after Property shall have been done away. Perhaps you may be too busy to form Equations and may reply as a Statesman that Government being instituted to protect Property is respected only in Proportion to the Fulfillment of that Duty and durable only as it is respectable. I respect you too much to contradict your Opinions and therefore confine myself to the more agreable Task of assuring you that I am
my dear Hamilton   very truly yours

Gouv Morris
Alexander Hamilton EsqrePhiladelphia


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Pinckney, [17 October 1793]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Pinckney, Thomas

[New York, October 17, 1793]

The Secretary of the Treasury presents his compliments to the Minister Plenipotentiary of the united States at the court of Great Britain and requests the favor of having the inclosed letter transmitted to our Bankers at Amsterdam.

New York Octobr 17th. 1793


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Stephen Moylan, 21 October 1793
From: Moylan, Stephen
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Chester County [Pennsylvania] October 21st. 1793
Dear sir

By a late offer made me by the President thoro the Secretary of State to appoint me Marshal for the Pennsylvania district, I was much pleased to find I was not out of his remembrance. I gave him such reasons for not accepting that office as I presume must be Satisfactory. An opportunity now offers of effectually Serving me, the Naval office being as I am informed Vacant by the death of Mr. Phile. I have this day wrote to the President, that it was an Office I shoud be proud to fill. If my application is back’d by your interest with him, I shall have great expectation of success. Will you my Dear sir write a few lines to the President in my favor? It will Serve a brother in War and your real friend.

Stephen Moylan
Honble A Hamilton Esqr.


Title: Conversation with George Hammond, [24 October 1793–22 February 1794]
From: Hammond, George,Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, October 24, 1793–February 22, 1794]

As I imagined it probable that from the circumstance of a part of the proscribed privateers having been either captured by his Majesty’s cruizers or disarmed by order of this government, occasion might be taken to detract from the urgency of attending to my remonstrances I deemed it incumbent upon me to specify particularly the proscribed privateers which were at that time either within the American ports or cruizing in the adjacent seas. In this number is the privateer le Citoyen Genet which, though as I informed your Lordship in my dispatch No. 19 on the authority of Mr. Hamilton, she had been allowed to return to this port under the express condition of being dismantled, has since recommenced her depredations. Upon my requesting from Mr. Hamilton some explanation of this circumstance he acquainted me that the fact was at the time precisely as he had stated it to me, but that the commander of this privateer, profiting of the confusion created by the sickness at Philadelphia had broken the stipulation into which he had entered, and sailed from the port in the intention of proceeding to Martinique which island according to some late accounts it appears that she has since reached in safety.