Title: Tully No. II, [26 August 1794]
From: “Tully”,Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, August 26, 1794]

For the American Daily Advertiser.
To the People of the United States.
Letter II.
It has been observed that the means most likely to be employed to turn the insurrection in the western country to the detriment of the government, would be artfully calculated among other things “to divert your attention from the true question to be decided.”
Let us see then what is this question. It is plainly this—shall the majority govern or be governed? shall the nation rule, or be ruled? shall the general will prevail, or the will of a faction? shall there be government, or no government?
It is impossible to deny that this is the true, and the whole question. No art, no sophistry can involve it in the least obscurity.
The Constitution you have ordained for yourselves and your posterity contains this express clause, “The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and Excises, to pay the debts, and provide for the common defence and general welfare of the United States.” You have then, by a solemn and deliberate act, the most important and sacred that a nation can perform, pronounced and decreed, that your Representatives in Congress shall have power to lay Excises. You have done nothing since to reverse or impair that decree.
Your Representatives in Congress, pursuant to the Commission derived from you, and with a full knowledge of the public exigencies have laid an excise. At three suceeding Sessions they have revised that act, and have as often, with a degree of unanimity not common, and after the best opportunities of knowing your sense, renewed their sanction to it, you have acquiesced in it, it has gone into general operation: and you have actually paid more than a million dollars on account of it.
But the four western counties of Pennsylvania, undertake to rejudge and reverse your decrees, you have said, “The Congress shall have power to lay Excises.” They say, “The Congress shall not have this power.” Or what is equivalent—they shall not exercise it:—for a power that may not be exercised is a nullity. Your Representatives have said, and four times repeated it, “an excise on distilled spirits shall be collected.” They say it shall not be collected. We will punish, expel, and banish the officers who shall attempt the collection. We will do the same by every other person who shall dare to comply with your decree expressed in the Constitutional character; and with that of your Representative expressed in the Laws. The sovereignty shall not reside with you, but with us. If you presume to dispute the point by force—we are ready to measure swords with you; and if unequal ourselves to the contest we will call in the aid of a foreign nation. We will league ourselves with a foreign power.

   Note—Threats of joining the British are actually thrown out—how far the idea may go is not known.

If there is a man among us who shall affirm that the question is not what it has been stated to be—who shall endeavour to perplex it, by ill timed declamations against excise laws—who shall strive to paralise the efforts of the community by invectives, or insinuations against the government—who shall inculcate directly, or indirectly, that force ought not to be employed to compel the Insurgents to a submission to the laws, if the pending experiment to bring them to reason (an experiment which will immortalize the moderation of the government) shall fail; such a man is not a good Citizen; such a man however he may prate and babble republicanism, is not a republican; he attempts to set up the will of a part against the will of the whole, the will of a faction, against the will of nation, the pleasure of a few against your pleasure; the violence of a lawless combination against the sacred authority of laws pronounced under your indisputable commission.
Mark such a man, if such there be. The occasion may enable you to discriminate the true from pretended Republicans; your friends from the friends of faction. ’Tis in vain that the latter shall attempt to conceal their pernicious principles under a crowd of odious invectives against the laws. Your answer is this: “We have already in the Constitutional act decided the point against you, and against those for whom you apologize. We have pronounced that excises may be laid and consequently that they are not as you say inconsistent with Liberty. Let our will be first obeyed and then we shall be ready to consider the reason which can be afforded to prove our judgement has been erronious: and if they convince us to cause them to be observed. We have not neglected the means of amending in a regular course the Constitutional act. And we shall know how to make our sense be respected whenever we shall discover that any part of it needs correction. But as an earnest of this, it is our intention to begin by securing obedience to our authority, from those who have been bold enough to set it at defiance. In a full respect for the laws we discern the reality of our power and the means of providing for our welfare as occasion may require; in the contempt of the laws we see the annihilation of our power; the possibility, and the danger of its being usurped by others & of the despotism of individuals succeeding to the regular authority of the nation.”
That a fate like this may never await you, let it be deeply imprinted in your minds and handed down to your latest posterity, that there is no road to despotism more sure or more to be dreaded than that which begins at anarchy.

Tully.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Gale, 27 August 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Gale, George

Treasury DepartmentAug 27. 1794
Sir

I have received your letter of the 23d. instant.
I expect that the next post will carry to the Governor instructions for assembling and marching the Militia with all practicable expedition. You may therefore proceed to put in motion the means for supplying them without further delay. It is understood that you will appoint the requisite Agents and settle the allowances by way of compension; doing as much by contract as the nature of the service will admit with advantage and as far as shall consist with dispatch.
The Governor has informed that arms and accoutrements will be furnished by the State. Artillery Military Stores tents and other Camp Equipage will go from hence to the place of general rendezvous which shall be named by The President. He has thought of Williamsport which I understand is within six miles of Hagars Town. But he will, no doubt, leave it optional to prefer Hagars Town if there shall appear to The Governor reasons for that preference. You will therefore confer with the Governor and act upon this Idea. A conductor of stores will accompany them from hence, who will be instructed to take the orders of yourself or your Agent at Hagars Town or Williamsport. An arrangement for their reception and safe keeping ought to be made.
From what has been said you will perceive that provisions forage fuel & transport are the objects for which you are to provide. Whiskey of course falls under the article provisions which leaves you at liberty to consult the consideration of policy you hint at.
The Treasurer has been directed to remit you for this service blank drafts for fifteen thousand Dollars which you may fill up upon the Bank of the United States & the Offices of Discount & Deposit at New York & Baltimore. These will go by the next post.
You speak of appointments by the Governor of Quarter Masters & Commissaries. As the service to be executed will involve a great expenditure, Characters of this description will be appointed for the whole army by this Government. The appointment of the Governor therefore need not go beyond Regimental Quarter Masters. You may notice this to him.
The affair of the Arms at Frederick is of the greatest importance. Nothing ought to be left to hazard. The insurgents are of an enterprising character & would make the attempt if they thought there was a prospect of success. But the practicability of execution must depend on the temper of the inhabitants and other local considerations which I here cannot appreciate. I intend to write a line by this post to the Governor on the subject.
With consideration & esteem   I am sir   Your obedt ser

George Gale esqMaryland


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Abraham Hunt, 27 August 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hunt, Abraham

Treasury DepartmentAug 27. 1794
Sir

I have received your letter in answer to mine, concerning the supply of the Militia about to assemble in New Jersey. I should think what you mention for a ration at Trenton too high. It appears to me that ten Cents, for so considerable a supply in a short time, would be sufficient. If you are not willing to undertake at this rate, I will request you to conduct the business upon commission as heretofore proposed.
But it appears to me that a person having some general superintendence of the business of supplying the militia in the course of their march through the State may be necessary; for the contractors at Brunswick & Trenton are only to supply on the spot & some intermediate halts will be necessary for which an arrangement should be made. Besides I can never think of allowing the present contract price of the Ration at New Brunswick & if Mr Bray to whom I have written does not agree to a price which appears moderate I shall prefer purchases there also on Commission.
It is this kind of general direction which I wished you to undertake and for which a suitable compensation would be made according to the trouble it might occasion. In other words I want a person who will adjust with the Governor the course to be pursued and will undertake to see it executed. That the Treasury may have but one point to look to.
I request your answer by return of Post, as I expect the Post of tomorrow will convey an instruction for the assembling of the Militia.
With esteem, I am Sir   Your Obedient serv

Abraham Hunt EsquireTrenton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Kean, 27 August 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Kean, John

[Philadelphia] August 27, 1794. Encloses “two draughts of a Contract, for the Loan of One million of Dollars, agreed to be made to the United States by the Bank—one of which draughts is already signed in due form by the Secretary on the part of the United States—the other is intended to be executed by the President of the Bank.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Lincoln, 27 August 1794
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, August 27, 1794. “I called a few days since for the settlement of a number of Bonds a collection of the money due on which had been suspended as the duties arose on goods which afterwards were exported. Many of the people come and say that they have not yet received their certificates of the landing of the Goods in a foreign port the reason of which arises from the detention the vessels have experienced in France that they are now liberated and will probably be at home in a very short time. Will their late detention in a foreign port justify a farther delay in collecting the money due on the bonds?”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [27 August 1794]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia, August 27, 1794]

The Secretary of the Treasury presents his respects to the President incloses a recommendation of persons for officers of the Revenue Cutter in South Carolina. Capt. Cochran who is now here expresses an opinion that as the person recommended for third Mate is very young, it will be adviseable to defer his appointment ’till some further trial of him.
Augt. 27. 1794.
A Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Tench Coxe, [28 August 1794]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Coxe, Tench

[Philadelphia, August 28, 1794]

Mr. Hamilton requests to see Mr Coxe this Morning at his House.
Thursday Aug 28


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tench Coxe, [28 August 1794]
From: Coxe, Tench
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, August 28, 1794]

If Mr. Hamilton has recd. the letters from & to Mr. Brackenridge Mr Coxe will thank him for them by the Bearer. It will require some part of this day & to Morrow to copy the latter.
Col. Miller is not expected for several Days.

Thursday 7 o’Clk


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Howell, Junior, 28 August 1794
From: Howell, Joseph, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War Department, Accountant’s Office, August 28, 1794. Encloses “copies of the Contracts for Clothing for the Year 1787, 88 & 89 which governed me in the settlement of those accounts.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Sim Lee, 28 August 1794
From: Lee, Thomas Sim
To: Hamilton, Alexander

In Council   Annapolis   August 28th 1794.
Sir

By an act of the General Assembly of this State passed at their last Session, a Copy whereof is enclosed, certain arrangements are provisionally made for preventing, the Introduction of malignant contagious diseases into the Town of Baltimore. The Consent of the Legislature of the United States being necessary to the imposition and collection of the Tonnage duty contemplated by this Act as the means of its Execution, a Law was passed at the last Session of Congress by which the Operation of the above-mentioned Act of Assembly is assented to “so far as to enable this State to collect a duty of one cent per Ton on all Vessels coming into the District of Baltimore from a Foreign Voyage for the purpose in the said Act intended.”
The Act of Assembly, the operation of which is thus assented to, directs the duty to be paid to such person as may be appointed by the Governor with the advice of the Council to receive the same, and it is presumed that in virtue of these two laws a Collector appointed by us will be justified in demanding and receiving the duty imposed. But as neither the Laws of the United States nor that of this State contains any particular provision for securing or compelling the payment of the duty the demand of which is authorized; and as any person appointed by this Government for the purpose of making the collection would have considerable difficulties to encounter unless aided by the Revenue Officers of the General Government: We take the liberty of requesting, that, if nothing exceptionable is discovered in it, directions may be given to the proper officers of Revenue at Baltimore to afford their assistance to the person to be appointed by this Board so as to enable him to gratify the views of the Laws before alluded to in securing and enforcing the said duty.
We beg leave also to point out to you the request of our General Assembly contained in the 8th Section of the enclosed Act, and to solicit as speedy and effectual a compliance as possible both with their requisition and ours as the establishments to which they have reference cannot with propriety be longer delayed.
We have the honor to be with respectful consideration   Sir, your most obt Servt

Thos S. Lee
The HonorableAlexander Hamilton EsqSecretary Treasury.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Edmund Randolph, 28 August 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, August 28, 1794. “… it is the wish of the President of the United States, that General Miller should be sent into the counties of Pennsylvania, west of the Susquehannah, to ascertain their real temper, in case they should be called upon to quell the insurrection in the West. This idea arose from the suggestion in Mr. Bradford’s private letter, and is certainly important. The office of Supervisor does not perhaps include such a duty, but the object and the fitness of the man would at least render his expences a contingent charge.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Sim Lee, 29 August 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lee, Thomas Sim

Philadelphia August 29th. 1794
Sir

I am directed by the President of the United States to communicate to you his desire.
That such part of the Militia of the State of Maryland which by a Letter from the Secretary at War of the   instant You were requested to hold in readiness, as may have been allotted by you to the Eastern Shore of the State, may be assembled and marched without delay to the Town of Baltimore, there to receive further orders. The detachments from the other parts of the State will wait for future direction.
From the nature of the co-operation intended, Williamsport has appeared an eligible place of general Rendezvous for the Militia of Maryland. But if there are any reasons of weight which lead to a preference of Hagers Town the difference is not considered here as material.
If the local situation of any of the Militia called for shall require a more Westerly rendezvous, it is with your Excellency to appoint it as well as any other place or places of particular Rendezvous in the way to the general ones which may appear expedient.
The intention is to send to Williamsport or Hagars Town, as the one or the other shall be preferred by you, the Artillery, Ammunition, Tents and other Camp equipage and whatsoever else is necessary to go from hence. If an alteration in this plan should appear to you adviseable it is requested that it may be notified without delay. Your orders for assembling the Militia cannot well issue before the first of September. For particular reasons it is wished that they may be dated on that day.
George Gale Esquire has been requested to undertake the arrangement for all supplies both in the Quarter Master & Commissary lines; and for that purpose to confer with you.

Your Excellency will oblige by advising frequently of the progress of the operation and of any thing which may occur requiring attention here.
With great respect & Esteem   I have the Honor to be   Your Excellencys   Most Obedient Servant

A Hamilton
His ExcellencyThom S Lee Esqr.Governor of Maryland


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Sim Lee, 29 August 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lee, Thomas Sim

Philad Aug 29. 1794
Dear Sir

We have received by the last Pittsburgh Mail advices which give a hope that the disturbances there may terminate without bloodshed. Yet the symptoms thus far are too equivocal to be relied upon and may be a mere trick to produce a relaxation of efforts. Hence the President has concluded to proceed as if they might prove fallacious. I thought this hint might not be unacceptable to you.
It is very important in its example & consequences that even if the Militia are not [to] be used a zeal for the support of Government should appear amongst them. It may save the necessity of using force now & at future periods.
With great respect & esteem   I have the honor to be Dr Sir   Your obed ser

A Hamilton
His Exellency Governor LeeMaryland.


Title: Note on the Funding System, [August 1794]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, August, 1794]

The funding system (says a correspondent) as much abused, as if it were criminal in a Government to provide for the payment of the Debts of a Nation or as if it had created the debt for which it but provides, has not only produced all the advantageous effects which were promised from it (that is) contributed, by an increase of active or negotiable capital, to extend commerce and industry in every branch and to raise the value of lands, but it is at this moment promoting a very important advantage of another sort which was not predicted, namely the transfer to this Country of foreigners of property with their property. Every body knows that the difficulty of transferring property from one country to another without loss or risk of loss is not among the least of the impediments to emigration. But the funds of the U States, which have been carried to Europe, obviate this difficulty, and offer at once a mode of investment and transfer altogether convenient and even profitable; a circumstance which it is known has had its influence and is likely to have still greater. Thus the U States receive a double compensation for their funds by the first price which was given for them, and by their return with the additional advantage of an acquisition of citizens who come to this country from a mode of thinking congenial with our political establishments. Those who think accessions of Capital to a young Country, which has more to improve, than capital for improvement, beneficial, will not undervalue the advantage which has been mentioned. At any rate, they will see in it a diminution of what has been supposed by some as evil, the transfer of our funds to foreigners.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [August 1794]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia, August, 1794]

The Secretary of the Treasury presents his respects to the President. He sent yesterday for the papers necessary to furnish the particular instances of misconduct in certain officers of Pennsylvania, but on examination they prove not to be the right ones. There is probably not time to correct the error today; but the President may mention the circumstance to the Governor & inform him that he will direct me to communicate particulars.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Bray, 1 September 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Bray, John

[Philadelphia, September 1, 1794. On February 1, 1795, Bray presented to the Treasury Department his “Account with the United States” for “provisions and forage furnished various parties of the division of the New Jersey Militia … pursuant to instructions from the Secretary of the Treasury as contained in his letter of the 1st Septr 1794.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Tench Coxe, [1–2 September 1794]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Coxe, Tench

[Philadelphia, September 1–2, 1794]

Mr. Hamilton requests Mr. Coxe to examine the Draft herewith sent—to make the parts which are taken from Mr. Coxe’s report such as the examination he was to make shall render correct—to note whether the inquiry of Mr. Dallas ought to make any alteration in what is said about prosecutions for offences in the last paragraph but one—& to ascertain whether Col Nevill has any scruples about what is stated on his authority.
The business is urgent & ought not to be delayed more than is unavoidable.

AH


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Ellery, 1 September 1794
From: Ellery, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Collector’s Offe. Port of Newport [Rhode Island]Sept. 1st. 1794
Sir,

I am informed that a Statemt. of the Case of James Smith master and owner of the Schooner Fox of and from Halifax in Nova Scotia burthen about 18 tons will by direction of the District Judge be transmitted to you by this Post.

The Schooner Fox arrived at Bristol in this District on the 9th. day of the last month about eight or nine o’clock in the morng. without any Cargo. On the same day the master purchased and took on board a quanty. of Onions and Apples. By some mismanagement the Vessel oversat, sank, and the goods floated out of her and were lost. He did not report to the Surveyor of the Port in twenty four hours, nor at the Custom House until Seventy two hours after his arrival at Bristol. Whether this neglect, and this delay was occasioned in the manner represented in his petition I cannot say, nor whether he inquired for the Custom house and received the information therein mentioned. It appeared to the District Atty. and to me that he is a person of small property, that he had offered to sell his Schooner after she had sunk for one hundred Dollars, and that he would not be able to procure bail and must go to Gaol if he were prosecuted, the District Atty. therefore advised that he should apply to you and deposit his vessel as a pledge to abide your determination. He readily consented to this measure, and as he is at expence here, which I believe he can illy sustain, he earnestly wishes that you would be pleased to decide upon his case as soon as you can make it convenient.
I am with great Consideration   Sir, Yr. most obedt. servant

Wm. Ellery Colle
Alexr Hamilton EsqrSecry of the Treasy


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Wilhem and Jan Willink, Nicholaas and Jacob Van Staphorst, and Nicholas Hubbard, 1 September 1794
From: Willink, Wilhem,Willink, Jan,Van Staphorst, Nicholaas,Van Staphorst, Jacob,Hubbard, Nicholas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Triplicate Orig: Per Br. Harriot Holland Dupl. Pr. Br.Union Leader to New York
Amsterdam 1 September 1794.
Sir!

We had the pleasure to address you our last respects the 18th ultimo since when We have not received any of your esteemed favors.

With satisfaction do We announce to you, the delivery of all the Bonds of the Loan of Three Millions of Florins dated the 1 January 1794.
Inclosed you have the Account Current of the United States with us up to this day, the Balance whereon due by us Holland Currency f 972,676.12. 8 We transfer to their Credit in a new Account.
No further news yet arrived from Copenhagen. We shall therefore write again and press all possible the purchase of the salpetre You ordered.
With great regard and esteem We are   Sir!   Your most obed. hb. servants

Wilhem & Jan WillinkN & J. Van Staphorst & Hubbard

Bonds of the U: S: at
5 percent.
99   pr. ct.

Do.
4 “ do . .
88½  “ “.

Alexr. Hamilton Esqr. Secretary of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from ———, 2 September 1794
From:
To: Hamilton, Alexander

York County, Virginia, September 2, 1794. “As diffidence, distant modesty, and great Secrecy, hinders me from avowing myself, and not having the Honour of Knowing you, with a wish of gratitude to serve your cabinet, and if necessary to aid your field, in a Country, which I have had both experience in and friendship from, occasions now, that doubtfulness, which a surety of my intentions being received, would counteract & prevent; from & under these impressions, I trust, my signature being absent, will be readily excused. The resources of this Country being manifold and efficient—The view is to point out the elegibility and necessity of improving the Public Taxes, from these resources, with the smallest ease, and least appearance of Burthen: a number of new Laws, their utility &c—A Seine Tax, propriety of—Lottery Tax—Mile Tax, Stamp Tax on Receipts—Bonds, Mortgages &c—moderate—it will answer; and it may be observed, that what has been unpopular at one time, may yet meet the opinion of the public at another.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Samuel Hodgdon, 2 September 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hodgdon, Samuel

[Philadelphia] September 2, 1794. Requests “an Inventory of intrenching tools to be procured for the Militia force destined against the insurgents if it should become necessary to march them formed upon a moderate scale with an estimate of the probable Cost.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Henry Lee, 2 September 1794
From: Lee, Henry
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Norfolk [Virginia] 2d. Sept. 94
dear Hamilton.

I am extremely chagrined on finding from your private letter accompanying your public letter that the intended secrecy is entirely baffled as it respected the call on me to take care of the insurgents.
Being absent from Richmond on a visit to the forts at Norfolk, the public letr. was opened by the Lt. Govenor & there being no injunction of secrecy on it, The purport was divulged without ceremony & before I received my letters the report reached me of my late appointment.

I do not believe that any thing but good will result from this accident in this state for I am persuaded it will accelerate the readiness of the troops & I am confident G. Morgan will prefer me to any other—nor can he consider his former relative claim slighted in as much as he is in the habit of obeying me as commander in chief of the militia, in which character I shall act if sad necessity so decrees. However knowing his value & anxious to prevent any disturbance of harmony I wrote yesterday to him in terms suitable for the object I contemplated, & I hope my letr. will have its designed effect.
When I return to Richmond which will be very soon, I will see Carrington.
I love him dearly & should prefer him to any other in the character you suggest. But you ought to weigh well the objection you mention, for such is the temper of the people & such the eventful crisis that no measure however wise ought to be adopted which furnishes fuel for the discontentist political declaimers in which the U S abound.
The honor you propose as possible I receive with every respect due to your goodness & friendship & I well know the extensive good I should derive from your wisdom zeal & sincerity but really when you talk of acting in a station so inferior, you add to the awkwardness of my feelings which I assure you are too much so already for that tranquillity of mind indispensible for the conducting of business great & difficult—a good adjutant general may secure & save Mifflins feelings.
God bless you:

H: Lee


Title: Tully No. IV, [2 September 1794]
From: “Tully”,Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, September 2, 1794]

For the American Daily Advertiser.
To the People of the United States
Letter IV.
The prediction mentioned in my first letter begins to be fulfilled. Fresh symptoms every moment appear of a dark conspiracy, hostile to your government, to your peace abroad, to your tranquility at home. One of its orators dares to prostitute the name of Franklin, by annexing it to a publication as insidious as it is incendiary. Aware of the folly and the danger of a direct advocation of the cause of the Insurgents, he makes the impudent attempt to inlist your passions in their favour—by false and virulent railings against those who have heretofore represented you in Congress. The fore ground of the piece presented you with a bitter invective against that wise, moderate, and pacific policy, which in all probability will rescue you from the calamities of a foreign war, with an increase of true dignity and with additional lustre to the American name and character. Your Representatives are delineated as corrupt pusylanimous and unworthy of your confidence; because they did not plunge headlong into measures which might have rendered war inevitable; because they contented themselves with preparing for it, instead of making it, leaving the path open to the Executive for one last and solemn effort of negociation—because they did not display either the promptness of gladiators, or the blustering of bullies—but assumed that firm, yet temperate attitude which alone is suited to the Representatives of a brave, but rational People—who deprecated war, tho’ they did not fear it—and who have a great and solid interest in peace which ought only to be abandoned when it is unequivocally ascertained that the sacrifice is absolutely due to the vindication of their honor and the preservation of their essential rights—because in fine, your Representatives wished to give an example to the world that the boasted moderation of republican governments was not (like the patriotism of our political barkers) an empty declamation, but a precious reality.
The sallies of a momentary sensibility, roused and stung by injury were excusable. It was not wonderful that the events of war, were under the first impressions heard from good, and even prudent men. But to revive them at this late hour, when fact and reflection unite to condemn them; to arraign a conduct which has elevated the national character to the highest point of true glory—to hope to embark you in the condemnation of that conduct, and to make your indignation against it useful to the cause of Insurrection and Treason, are indications of a wrong-headedness, perverseness, or profligacy, for which it is not easy to find terms of adequate reprobation.
Happily the plotters of mischief know ye not. They derive what they mistake for your image, from an original in their own heated and crooked imaginations and they hope to mould a wise, reflecting and dispassionate people, to purposes which presuppose an ignorant unthinking and turbulent herd.
But the declamations against your Representatives for their love of peace is but the preface to the main design. That design is to alienate you from the support of the laws by the spectre of an “odious excise system, baneful to Liberty, engendered by corruption and nurtured by the Instrumentality (favoured word, fruitful source of mountebank wit) of the enemies of Freedom.” To urge the execution of that system would manifest it is said an intemperate spirit; and to excite your disapprobation of that course, you are threatened with the danger of a civil war, which is called the consummation of human evil.
To crown the outrage upon your understandings; the Insurgents are represented as men who understand the principles of freedom & know the horrors and distresses of anarchy, and who therefore must have been tempted to hostility against the laws by a Radical Defect Either in the government, or in those entrusted with its administration. How thin the partition which divides the insinuation from the assertion, that the government is in fault, and the insurgents in the right.
Fellow-Citizens; a name, a sound has too often had influence on the affairs of nations; an Excise has too long been the successful watch-word of party. It has even sometimes led astray well meaning men. The experiment is now to be tried, whether there be any spell in it of sufficient force to unnerve the arm which it may be found necessary to raise in defence of law and order.
The jinglers who endeavor to cheat us with the sound, have never dared to venture into the fair field of argument. They are conscious that it is easier to declaim than to reason on the subject. They know it to be better to play a game with the passions and prejudices than to engage seriously with the understanding of the auditory.
You have already seen, that the merits of excise Laws are immaterial to the question to be decided—that you have prejudged the point by a solemn constitutional act, and that until you shall have revoked or modified that act, resistance to its operation is a criminal infraction of the social compact, an inversion of the fundamental principles of Republican Government, and a daring attack upon Your sovereignty, which you are bound by every motive of duty, and selfpreservation to withstand and defeat. The matter might safely be suffered to rest here; but I shall take a future opportunity to examine the reasonableness of the prejudice which is inculcated against excise laws—and which has become the pretext for excesses tending to dissolve the bands of Society.
Fellow Citizens—You are told, that it will be intemperate to urge the execution of the laws which are resisted—what? will it be indeed intemperate in your Chief Magistrate, sworn to maintain the Constitution, charged faithfully to execute the Laws, and authorized to employ for that purpose force when the ordinary means fail—will it be intemperate in him to exert that force, when the constitution and the laws are opposed by force? Can he answer it to his conscience, to you not to exert it?
Yes, it is said; because the execution of it will produce civil war, the consummation of human evil.
Fellow-Citizens—Civil War is undoubtedly a great evil. It is one that every good man would wish to avoid, and will deplore if inevitable. But it is incomparably a less evil than the destruction of Government. The first brings with it serious but temporary and partial ills—the last undermines the foundations of our security and happiness—where should we be if it were once to grow into a maxim, that force is not to be used against the seditious combinations of parts of the community to resist the laws? This would be to give a Carte blanch to ambition—to licentiousness; to foreign intrigue; to make you the prey of the gold of other nations—the sport of the passions and vices of individuals among yourselves. The Hydra Anarchy would rear its head in every quarter. The goodly fabric you have established would be rent assunder, and precipitated into the dust. You knew how to encounter civil war, rather than surrender your liberty to foreign domination—you will not hesitate now to brave it rather than surrender your sovereignty to the tyranny of a faction—you will be as deaf to the apostles of anarchy now, as you were to the emissaries of despotism then. Your love of liberty will guide you now as it did then—you know that the Power of the majority and Liberty are inseparable—destroy that, and this perishes. But in truth that which can properly be called a civil war is not to be apprehended—Unless, from the act of those who endeavour to fan the flame, by rendering the Government odious. A civil war is a contest between two Great parts of the same empire. The exertion of the strength of the nation to suppress resistance to its laws by a sixtieth part of itself, is not of that description.
After endeavouring to alarm you with the horrors of civil war—an attempt is made to excite your sympathy in favour of the armed faction by telling you that those who compose it are men, who understand the principles of freedom, and know the horrors and distresses of anarchy, and must therefore have been prompted to hostility against the laws by a radical defect Either in the government or in its administration.
Fellow Citizens! For an answer to this you have only to consult your senses. The natural consequence of radical defect in a government, or in its administration is national distress and suffering—look around you—where is it? do you feel it? do you see it?
Go in quest of it beyond the Alleghaney, and instead of it, you will find that there also a scene of unparralleled prosperity upbraids the ingratitude and madness of those, who are endeavouring to cloud the bright face of our political horizon, and to mar the happiest lot that beneficent Heaven ever indulged to undeserving mortals.
When you have turned your eyes towards that scene—examine the men whose knowledge of the principles of freedom is so emphatically vaunted—where did they get their better knowledge of those principles than that which you possess? How is it that you have been so blind or tame as to remain quiet, while they have been goaded into hostility against the laws by a Radical Defect in the government, or its administration?
Are you willing to yield them the palm of discernment, of patriotism or of courage?

Tully.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 2 September 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury Department September 2nd. 1794
Sir,

The state of my health since you were pleased to refer to me the letter from Governor Mifflin of the 22 of August has been such as to delay the necessary previous examination in order to a reply—and prevents now its being as full and particular as I had wished it to be.
I premise for greater clearness that by official influence, I understand, that influence which is derived from Official situation, whether exerted directly in the line of Office, or collaterally and indirectly in other ways.
It will readily be concurred, that a spirit, like that which has been stated to have prevailed would frequently discover itself in forms so plausibly disguised and with so much duplicity of aspect as not to be capable of being rendered palpable by precise specification and proof. It appeared, for example, among other shapes, in observations on the exceptionable nature of the Laws tending to foment dissatisfaction with them; in recommendations of what has been called legal or constitutional opposition, in a disrespectful and disparaging demeanor towards the Officers charged with their execution and in severe strictures on what were denominated rigorous and irregular proceedings of those Officers, calculated to foster public contempt and hatred of them—in ambiguous hints susceptible of different interpretations, but easily applied by the passion of those to whom they were addressed to purposes of opposition. To enter into an exhibition of these instances would require a long detail an appeal to persons now within the discontented Scene whose apprehensions would restrain them from becoming voluntarily witnesses—and would after all be liable to specious controversy about their true import and nature.
I therefore confine myself to those instances of opposition and discountenance to the Laws by persons in Office, which are unequivocal.

Among those who composed the meeting noticed in my report to you of the 5th. of August referred to by the Governor in his Letter—which was holden on the 23 of August 1791, in the County of Washington were the following public Officers of Pennsylvania (vizt) James Marshall Register and Recorder, David Bradford Deputy to the Attorney General of the State, Henry Taylor and James Edgar Associate Judges Thomas Crooks, William Parker, Eli Jenkins, and Thomas Sedgwick Justices of the Peace and Peter Kidd a Major of the Militia.
Among those who composed the second meeting noticed in the same report which was holden on the second of September 1791, at Pittsburgh, were, besides James Marshall and David Bradford above mentioned—the following public Officers of Pennsylvania (vizt.) Edward Cooke and Nathaniel Braden Associate Judges Nehemiah Stokely and Thomas Moreton Colonels of Militia, the last a member of the Legislature of Pennsylvania John Cannon and Albert Gallatine Members of the Legislature of Pennsylvania, the former since a Justice of the peace.
Among those who composed the third meeting noticed in the same Report and which was holden at Pittsburgh on the 21 of August 1792, were, besides John Cannon, David Bradford, Albert Gallatine, James Marshall and Edward Cook before mentioned the following public Officers of Pennsylvania (vizt.) John Smilie Member of the State Senate, Thomas Wilson, and Samuel Giddes Colonels of the Militia William Wallace, then Sheriff now Colonel of the Militia John Hamilton Sheriff and Colonel of Militia and Basil Bowel Captain of Militia.
It may happen in some instances that the Offices annexed to particular names may not have been holden at the specified times of meeting. But this cannot materially affect the consequence to be drawn, as well because it is believed that the instances which may have been omitted to be noticed as very few—as because the conduct of the persons concerned has continued in a uniform Tenor of opposition.
The circumstance has been noted in the cases in which it was known to exist. These are John Cannon and William Wallace. It is understood, that the former was appointed by the Governor a Justice of the peace in May last. The time of the appointment of the latter as a Colonel of Militia is not particularly known.
The evidence to which immediate reference may be made of the Agency of the foregoing persons at the meetings alluded to, maybe found in the cotemporary public Gazettes of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia which contained the proceedings at large of those meetings with the names of the persons of whom they were respectively composed. The Governor can be at no loss to obtain more legal evidence of the fact if he desire it—and of the identity of the persons.
The following cases present other instances of opposition to the Laws by Officers of Pennsylvania. John Hamilton before mentioned Sheriff of a County and Colonel of Militia, is affirmed by Jacob Forwood and Robert Johnston Collector of the Revenue to have been one of a party who seized the said Johnson when travelling about his duty tarred and feathered him.
Caleb Mount then a Captain since a Major of Militia stands charged before Isaac Meason and James Finley Assistant Judges by information upon Oath of Benjamin Wells Collector of the Revenue and his Wife with being of a party that broke into the House of the said Collector sometime in April 1793.
Andrew Robb a Justice of the peace stands charged by information upon Oath before Jacob Beason another Justice of the peace with having offered a reward of Ten pounds for killing the Excise man meaning as was understood Wells the Collector. This fact is stated on the information of the said Collector.

James McFarlane who commanded the Rioters in the second attack upon the House of the Inspector of the Revenue on the 17th. of July last was a Major of Militia.
David Hamilton a Justice of the peace was the person who previous to that attack went to the House with a summons to surrender.
William Meetkirk a Justice of the peace, Gabriel Blakney a Colonel of Militia and Absolom Beard Inspector of Brigade were three of four persons who went as a Committee from the Rioters assembled at Braddocks field on the  to demand of the Inhabitants of Pittsburgh the expulsion of Kirkpatrick, Brison and Day as friends to the Laws.
Edward Cooke the Associate Judge already mentioned was the Chairman of a Committee at the same place, which ordered the expulsion of John Gibson and Presly Neville for the same cause.
Satisfactory testimony of these several last mentioned facts can be had from Abraham Kirkpatrick and Presly Nevill now in this City and well known to the Governor.
The following cases are instances of conduct in Office denoting an unfriendly temper towards the Laws.
James Wells a Justice of the peace and an Associate Judge upon information of an Assault committed upon John Webster Collector of the Revenue, in the execution of his duty in an attempt to sieze some Whisky illegally distilled, told the Collector that he had never read so worthless a Law as the Revenue Law of Congress—that he expected no person in the County would have been rascal enough to take a Commission under it, that if the Whisky had been siezed he would have thrown it into the road, and he was sorry the person who made the assault had not knocked down the Collector. No measures were taken to cause a redress for the Assault. This statement is made on the information of the said Webster.

Jacob Stewart and William Boyd Justices of the peace severally declined to issue process against Jacob Snyder a Distiller who was charged before them with having threatned another Distiller named Stoffer with burning of his House or some other injury, if he should enter his Still at an Office of Inspection. This statement is made on the information of Benjamin Wells the Collector, who affirms to have received it from Stoffer.

Joseph Huston Sheriff of the County of Fayette stands indicted at a Circuit Court for having refused or declined the service of Warrants and Suppœnas issued by Isaac Measan and James Finley assistant Judges of that County in the Case of the Riot which was committed at the House of a Collector of the Revenue in April 1793. This is the same with the instance mentioned in my Report.
The following is a case of peculiar and rather of a mixed complexion relating both to conduct in office and conduct out of Office—and including in it a specimen of that species of discountenance to the Laws which I have thought it most adviseable as a general rule to forbear entering into, but which being in this instance ascertainable by the acknowledgements of the party and by respectable testimony at hand, seems proper to form an exception to that rule, which may be useful, by way of example and illustration.
It is mentioned in my Report, that the supervisor of the Revenue in September 1792, was sent into the refractory Counties—among other things to collect evidence of the persons concerned in the Riot in Faulkners case. When at Pittsburgh, he applied by letter to Alexander Addison President of the Court of Common pleas—who resided at the Town of Washington to engage his Assistance, in taking the depositions of persons who were named to him by the Supervisor as able to testify concerning infractions of the Laws, and in causing some of the best informed Witnesses to attend a Circuit Court of the United States about to be holden at York Town.
The Judge not content with declining an Agency in the business, in his answer to the application digresses into a Censure on the Judiciary System of the United States which he represents as impracticable, unless it be intended to sacrifice to it the essential principles of the liberty of the Citizens and the Just authority of the State Courts—and afterwards declares, that were it his duty to do what was requested of him (which however he states in a manner different from what the Supervisor seems to have intended) he should do it with reluctance because he should be serving a cause which he thought unfavorable to liberty and the Just authority of the State Courts.
Without examining the sufficiency of the reasons which led to declining the Agency proposed to him—without commenting upon the observations which seek to derive a part of the justification for it from the resentment of the people against the Laws and the danger of loosing their confidence by a compliance with what was desired of him; topics the propriety of which in the mouth of a Magistrate might well be contested it cannot admit of a doubt, that there was a great unfitness in a Judge of Pennsylvania indulging himself with gratuitous invectives against the Judiciary system of the Government of the Union:—pronouncing it to be impracticable—unfavorable to liberty and to the just authority of the State Courts. It is difficult to perceive in such a digression the evidence of a temper cordial to the institutions and arrangements of the United States. The particulars of this affair have been long since in possession of the Governor.
Judge Addison in a letter, an extract from which was lately transmitted by the Governor to you acknowledges in terms that he “had endeavoured to inculcate constitutional resistance” to the particular Laws in question. Here is proof by his own confession that the weight of his influence was exerted against those Laws.
It is not easy to understand what is meant by the terms “constitutional resistance.” The Theory of every constitution presupposes as a first principle that the Laws are to be obeyed. There can therefore be no such thing as a “constitutional resistance” to Laws constitutionally enacted.

The only sense, which I have been able to trace as that intended by these terms, and the equivalent ones “legal resistance” “legal opposition” which have been frequently used by the opposers of the Laws is that every thing should be practiced to defeat the execution of the Laws short of actual violence or breach of the peace; accordingly that endeavours should be used to prevent the accepting or holding Offices under them by making it matter of popular contempt and reproach to do so and by a humiliating and insulting treatment of those who should accept or hold those Officers—that non compliances with the Laws by persons having Stills should be countenanced and promoted—that means of intimidation, guarded so as to escape legal animadversion, should be superadded, to discourage compliances to obstruct the establishment of Officers of Inspection and to deter from attempts to coerce delinquents, in fine that every obstacle which was supposed not to amount to an indictable Offence should be thrown in the way of the Laws.
The conduct of Judge Addison in particular instances as it has been represented, will perhaps afford no ill comment upon his expressions.
Benjamin Wells Collector declares that the said Judge then attending a Session of a Circuit Court as president at a public House, in the presence of Isaac Measan an Assistant Judge expressed himself, to him Wells in strong terms of disapprobation of the Laws laying duties on spirits distilled within the United States, saying they were “unjust and unequitable—that the money to be raised was unnecessary and that there was no use for it”—and afterwards at the same place and during the same Session of the Circuit Court, sitting at dinner with a mixed company, spoke in terms of contempt of the Officers of the Inspector and Collectors of the Revenue, and of disrespect towards the Officers themselves. At the next term of the Court, Wells went to the same Tavern, but was informed by the Tavern keeper and his Wife that he could not be received there, assigning for reason that Judge Addison had declared that if they took him in again he would leave the House.
Mr. Stokely a Member of the Pennsylvania Legislature for Washington, states that Judge Addison wrote a letter or letters in opposition to his election to the Legislature, and among other objections to him mentioned his having applied for or having had an intention to obtain an Office in the Excise.
General Nevill Inspector of the Revenue mentions a circumstance of a light but of an unequivocal nature to evince the prejudices against the Revenue Officers which were manifested by Judge Addison even from the Bench. It seems that it was a practice not unfrequently for the Judges then sitting in Court to invite within the Bar such persons who came into the Hall as they deemed of respectability. Judge Addison as General Neville affirms, repeatedly since the time of the meeting at Pittsburgh in August 1792, has given such invitations openly from the Bench, to those who were supposed to be of that discription within view, omitting a similar call or invitation to that Officer though present.
He adds that his own son Colonel Nevill standing by his side in conversation with him has been thus invited, while the like attention was withheld from him in a manner too marked to leave any doubt of the motive.
As the call of the Governor is for particular cases I forbear to adduce confirmations of the prevailing spirit of Officers alluded to from their extensive non compliance with the Laws in their capacity of distillers and from the neglect to bring to Justice offenders against them who were at the same time breakers of the peace of Pennsylvania. I observe indeed on this point the Governor entertains a different impression from that which I have; but after the most diligent inquiry, I am not able to discover a single case of the punishment of any such offender. There were indeed indictments foun⟨d⟩ against persons supposed to have been concerned in the violence upon the Maniac Wilson, and against others supposed to have been concerned in an assault upon one John Corner an old man who had been unknowingly the bearer of the letters containing processes which were sent by the Deputy Marshall as stated in my Report: but it is not understood that any of these were prosecuted to Judgment. The only cases known of actual punishment are of persons concerned in forcibly carrying off certain Witnesses in the case of Wilson. But this was on a Collateral point; and the cases of indictment respected transactions where humanity had been too much outraged to leave an option and where even punishment might have been inflicted upon Ground distinct from that of suppressing opposition to the Laws. I can learn no instance of the conviction and punishment of any person for a violence committed upon Officers or private Citizens clearly on account of their Agency under a friendly disposition towards the Laws; which is the more remarkable as the Rioters in Faulkeners case are asserted to have passed in open day through the Town of Washington, to have parleyed there with Inhabitants of the Town and to have been afterwards entertained at two or three Houses.
I have contented myself in the first instance with indicating particular cases and the sources of information without a formal exhibition of the evidence, because I could not fore see what cases in the view of the Governor would be proper for that animadversion which he seems to contemplate because considerable delay would have attended the collection of formal evidence in all the cases; and because in many of them the evidence is as accessible to the Governor as to myself: But I stand ready to afford the aid of this Department, in bringing forward testimony in any Cases in which the Governor may specifically desire it.
With the most perfect respect   I have the honor to be sir,   Your most obedient and humble Servant

Alexander Hamilton
The President of the United States


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the President, Directors, and Company of the Bank of the United States, 3 September 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: President, Directors, and Company of the Bank of the United States

Treasury Department September 3d 1794
Gentlemen,

There being reason to apprehend that the monies belonging to the United States, in the Office of Discount and Deposit at Baltimore, may not be adequate to the urgent wants of the public, in that quarter during the present Month I have to request that you will be so obliging as to give the United States a Credit at the said Office of Discount and Deposit for Twenty Thousand dollars. The mode which I should wish to be adopted would be for you to direct the Officers of the said Bank to honor all such draughts (not exceeding the sum already mentioned) as may be drawn by the Treasurer of the United States on that institution over and above the amount of the public monies in their hands. The sums so advanced to be repaid in this place to the Bank of the United States, upon the draughts being presented at the Treasury.
I am with great respect   Gentlemen,   Your most Obedient Servant

Alexander Hamilton
The President Directorsand Company of the Bank of the United States


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Edmund Randolph, 3 September 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Randolph, Edmund

[Philadelphia, September 3, 1794. On September 5, 1794, Randolph wrote to Hamilton “in answer to his letter of the 3d instant.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Isaac Holmes, 4 September 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Holmes, Isaac

Treasury DepartmentSepr. 4. 1794
Sir

A temporary absence from the seat of Government, an extreme press of still more urgent business since my return and ill health have conspired to delay an answer to your letter of the 30th of June last. My regret at this delay has become extreme since the receipt of your letter of the 9th of August, which shews the continuance of a most unfortunate & mischievous error—contrary to what I had hoped considering the very plain tenor of the Act of Congress entitled “An Act in addition to the Act for the punishment of certain Crimes against the UStates” passed the 5th of June last.
The construction that expressions “Equipments of a doubtful nature as being applicable either to Commerce or War are deemed lawful” which occur in the 4th & 5th of the rules transmitted in my letter of the 4th of Aug 1793—were intended to tolerate the fitting and arming of vessels for defence or for merchandize and war is wholly erroneous, and as far as I know peculiar to Charlestown.
It is to the last degree embarrassing to conceive how such a construction could have been reconciled to the clear terms of the first rule which declare that “The original arming and equipping of vessels in ports of the UStates by any of the belligerent parties for military service, offensive or defensive is deemed unlawful.”
Now all arming is for military service offensive or defensive. It is for war, for combat, which is military service, to commit or to repel hostility, the first being offensive the last defensive. A letter of Marque, armed for the protection of her Merchandize, is as unequivocally a vessel armed for military service as a frigate, though the object be primarily and principally self-defence. Indeed the having or being without a commission can make no difference in the case—tis the arming ’tis the warlike nature of an equipment that is the criterion of its destination for military service.

I observe with surprise the idea that a Commission was deemed to be within the meaning of the word “equipping” in the first rule. It is repugnant to the familiar and obvious sense of the term; which includes only those things which are done to the Vessel herself as a machine, and perhaps articles of furniture & supply; but was never before (I believe) understood to comprehend a military Commission. If this had been intended, the expression would naturally have been “arming equipping and commissioning” the stopping at the second term was a manifest exclusion of the last.
It follows that every thing which has been permitted under this unfortunate construction of the rules has been a contravention of them and of the Neutrality of the Ustates.
What then it may be asked was intended by the terms “Equipment, of a doubtful nature as being applicable either to commerce or War?” I will answer by stating a case or two that occurred. A vessel had her waste board raised considerably higher than is usual & strengthened with additional timber & plank which was understood to be preparatory to the opening of Port Holes. This was considered as an equipment of a doubtful nature. ’Till port holes were actually opened it could not be pronounced with certainty that the object was a military one. But port holes themselves have been determined to be a military equipment, being foreign to mere navigation, and solely adapted to combat or war.
Again—A French Privateer procured at Baltimore an extra number of oars. It was suggested, that this must have been for military service, as it was intirely unusual to have so great a number for mere navigation. The determination was that it was an equipment of a doubtful nature & therefore permitted. An oar is purely an instrument of navigation—the having an extra number did not clearly alter the nature of the Equipment. There was no certain criterion by which to determine what excess should change the nature of the thing.
But how could it have been imagined for a moment that arms were an equipment of a doubtful nature? Their peculiar & appropriate use is war offensive or defensive. The first rule proves that defensive equipments was as much intended to be prohibited as offensive ones. It is manifest too that any difference in this particular was liable to a degree of evasion that would intirely defeat the regulations.
I feel myself compelled to ask how it has happened, that a construction of this kind, about the justness of which doubts must certainly have been entertained, defeating in its operation the manifest intention of the Executive Government could have been adopted & so long acted upon without resorting for an explanation to this Department?
As to the construction which the District Attorney has given to the Act, I must acknowlege that it intirely confounds me. After what has been said, I need scarcely add that it must not govern your conduct.
You are to consider all arming or augmentation of force by or for any of the belligerent parties as absolutely prohibitted, & you are to act accordingly. I request too that you will communicate the substance of this letter both to the Governor & to the District Attorney.
It is my duty to lay before The President the correspondence to which this is a reply. His chagrin, I may anticipate, will not be less than mine.
With consideration   I am   sir   Your obed ser
The Collector of Charles Town


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Sim Lee, 4 September 1794
From: Lee, Thomas Sim
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Annapolis Sept. 4th 1794
Sir.

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated the 29th of August intimating the Presidents desire that the Eastern Shore part of the detachment of Militia required from this State should be immediately marched to Baltimore Town. I have also received and beg you to accept my thanks for your private letter of the same date. In conformity to the President’s direction I have issued orders dated the 1st Instant for the assembling of the Troops at the places most convenient for their embarkation for Baltimore; and have engaged the several Brigadiers of Militia on the Eastern Shore to be active in the execution of these orders. I have likewise sent to Baltimore a number of Tents belonging to this State, sufficient for the accommodation of the men during their stay at that place and shall forward some to George Town and perhaps to Frederick Town for the use of those who in the event of further orders may be assembled at those places. Presuming that the advantage of water Carriage and possibly an early junction with the Virginia Detachment may be Contemplated in the fixing on William’s Port as a point of rendezvous for the militia of this State, I think it a very proper place except as to those of Allegany and the Upper part of Washington Counties. These according to the arrangement hereto subjoined, you will perceive, I propose to assemble at Cumberland. If any objection lies against this plan I hope to receive timely information of it.
I see no reason to propose any further alteration to the arrangements suggested, except that knapsacks, Canteens and Camp Kettles will be requisite for the Troops on their march from Baltimore and from George Town (if that place should eventually become a place of partial rendezvous) to Williams Port; and that provision should be made for the accommodation of those who may assemble in the first instance at Cumberland. Perhaps Mr Gale may have received directions on this head, if not I presume you will weigh the expediency of the measure and instruct him accordingly.
It remains to observe that although a disposition to condemn the Conduct of the Insurgents, and to support the Government in its measures to seduce them to a sense of duty may with great truth be ascribed generally to the people of Maryland, this disposition has hitherto produced effects very unequal at different places and at different points of time since the requisition was made. I have however no reason to doubt that it will be complied with, at least so far as respects the Infantry. I am less able to ascertain what number of Artillery and Cavalry will be obtained. From the very recent organization of our Militia the whole number now in training will not much exceed the amount of the requisition, and of these it may be supposed that a considerable portion cannot without great injury to their affairs serve in person. With respect to Cavalry in particular, which cannot be replaced by substitutes, notwithstanding a considerable shew of alacrity at the Commencement, the ultimate collection of the number required is very doubtful. This arises from Some circumstances for which it is difficult to find a remedy. It seems certain that no one Troop will furnish Volunteers sufficient for a distinct Command, of course an incorporation of persons belonging to different Troops will be requisite; and I am apprehensive that the necessity of passing under the command of new officers and of mixing with Horsemen in a great variety of Uniforms will deduct greatly from their ardour, and of course from the number to be obtained. Besides the inconveniences already stated, these Corps are hitherto but partially equipped, and in order that no means may be neglected of encouraging them to serve, I would recommend that swords and pistols for one hundred Horsemen (or as many as can be spared) be forwarded immediately to Baltimore directed to Brigadier General Smith who will Command the detachment from this State. This will destroy a ground of excuse, which otherwise would be conclusive and will I think greatly strengthen our means of Complying with the requisition.
I am &c

Tho S Lee
The HonorableAlexander Hamilton EsqSecretary Treasury.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Christopher Richmond, 4 September 1794
From: Richmond, Christopher
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Baltimore, September 4, 1794. “The Treasurer of the United States having on the 17th July remitted to me four Bills drawn by him on Otho H Williams Collector of this Port to be applied to the expence of fortifying the Port of Baltimore and having paid but one of them over to Samuel Dodge the Contractor of the Works, I have thought proper, in order to close the Account erected against me …, to deliver over to Robert Purviance Esqr the present Collector the remaining three Bills …”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Edmund Randolph, 5 September 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, September 5, 1794. “The Secretary of State has the honor of informing the Secretary of the Treasury, in answer to his letter of the 3d. instant, that Mr. Higginson’s papers have been withheld from the Department of State, at the desire of Mr. Ralston, who is supposed to be one of the health Committee. As soon as they are delivered, whatsoever appears respecting payments to Mr. Lemaigre shall be communicated.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Edmund Randolph, [6 September 1794]
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, September 6, 1794]

The Secretary of State presents his Compliments to the Secretary of the Treasury and incloses to him by direction of the President sundry letters and other papers received from Mr. Seagrove respecting the Creek nation and the Governor of Georgia. The President is anxious that the whole of this business should be reviewed and brought into one summary. For this purpose he thinks that Mr. Stagg should be directed to collect all the documents, belonging to the affairs of Georgia in her contest with the Insurgents and the Invaders of the Creek Territory. If the State of Coll Hamilton’s health will not permit him to undertake the business, and he will instruct Major Stagg to bring the papers to E Randolph, he will endeavour to assist Coll. Hamilton.

Philadelphia, Septemr. 6th 1794.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from David Lenox, 8 September 1794
From: Lenox, David
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia Septr. 8th. 1794
Sir

As I find my name brought into public view respecting the transactions which have taken place to the Westward, my feelings demand that I should come forward & state facts as they respect myself, leaving it to you to make what use you may think proper of the information.
In the Month of May last the Attorney of the District informed me that certain process were about to be issued against persons in several of the Counties for noncompliance with the Revenue laws of the United States, it therefore became my duty to make preparation for an execution of them. As difficulties had occured on former occasions of a similar kind I came to the determination of doing the duty in person, accordingly on the 22d. day of June, I left this City and proceeded through the Counties of Cumberland Bedford & Fayette without encountering much difficulty, indeed in the County of Fayette I met many instances of personal respect & attention from some of the persons on whom I had served process. On my entering the County of Allegheny I waited on General Nevill who very kindly offered to accompany me rather than put me to the trouble of looking out for a guide. We left his House on Tuesday Morning the 15th. July and in the course of a few hours I served process on four persons all of whom shewed much contempt for the Laws of the United States, we proceeded to the House of a certain William Miller between the hours of eleven and twelve O’Clock in the forenoon who in much agitation refused to receive a Copy of the process against him, but it was legally served. During a conversation with him in which I pointed out the folly of his conduct, we perceived a number of Armed Men approaching us to appearance about thirty or forty. As my mind had been previously made up on the business it was not my wish to avoid them in which I was seconded by my companion. Soon after we left the House and were proceeding on our route we were fired upon at the distance of forty or fifty yards. I immediately reined in my Horse and upbraided them with their conduct, but was answered in a language peculiar to themselves. Having finished my business in that quarter excepting the service of a process against a certain John Shaw who was on my way down the Country, I parted with General Nevill who took the road to his Home and I proceeded to Pittsburgh with the intention of prosecuting my journey to places where I had further business. The morning following Colonel Presley Nevill entered my Chamber & put into my hands a letter from his father in which he mentioned that about sun rise that Morning he had been attacked by a considerable body of Men (which I afterwards learnt from good information Amounted to about One hundred) that after a considerable conflict they retreated with three or four Wounded, one of whom I was informed died of his Wounds. On receiving this information I determined to remain in th⟨is⟩ Country to see the issue. An application was made to Major Butler who very readily ordered a detachment of sixteen Men under the command of Captain Howe as a guard to protect General Nevill from further insult. They arrived at his House that Evening & as nothing happened during the Night, Captain Howe returned to town the next morning accompanied by Colonel Nevill leaving a Serjeant and eleven Men at the ⟨–⟩. In the forenoon of the same day (vizt Thursday 17th) General Nevill dispatched a person through the Woods with a letter in which he ment⟨ioned⟩ that he had certain information that about ⟨–⟩ hundred Men would Attack him that Night. He added that if he had any freinds in Pittsburgh they would shew themselves on this occasion. On receiving this information I accompanied Col Nevill to Messrs. Gibson & Wilkin’s in whom were united the rank of Generals of Militia and Diginitys of Associate Judges under the State Government. After a conversation of some length & after deliberation on their part they gave their opinion in writing which I am informed has been transmitted to you. As this opinion was such as to afford no protecti⟨on⟩ to General Nevill it became extremely natural for his Son to endeavour to obtain for him all the assistance in his power. I very chearfully offered my services and we were joined by Major Craig Lieut. Semple of the Army and Mr. John Ormsby. We left Pittsburgh about three O’Clock in the afternoon and proceeded to within about half a Mile of General Nevills House where we were all made Prisoners by the insurgents. Soon after the firing commenced and continued with some intermission for about an hour when we perceived the buildings on fire. About eight O’Clock the main body collected where we were which consisted of about five hundred men as they themselves asserted and which I believe. They called a Council and it was determined that I should march to a place called Couch’s fort where my fate should be determined. Major Craig Mr Semple & Mr Ormsby got off in the course of the March but Colonel Nevill & myself were obliged to proceed in the most painful and humiliating situation. Here however candor obliges me to express the obligations I am under for the personal protection I frequently met with from several of the party whose names I forbear at present to mention for reasons respecting themselves. On my arriving at the place of Rendezvous and being announced four or five of a large party there fired towards me without injuring me, tho’ by the light of the moon my person was plainly exposed to them at ⟨but⟩ few yards distance. I will not pretend to say they meant to injure me but the Men who had before protected me immediately interfered and upbraided them with their conduct. Soon after this and while their Committee were deliberating on my fate two fellows advanced from among the Croud towards me with their Knives drawn. On my mentioning publickly that I hoped I was not to be assassinated in that way, they were driven from my side, tho not before they had cut my Coat in several places. I was then desired to dismount and walk into the House as a place of greater safety. Here I found Colonel Nevill who had arrived half an hour before me. At length, it was determined that I should be released on my promising that I would serve no more processes on the West side ⟨of the⟩ Allegheny Mountain which was consent⟨ed to on⟩ my part and guaranteed by Colonel N⟨evill⟩. We then requested that some persons might accompany us a short distance to protect us from further insult as men were constantly coming in much in liquor. Three persons were accordingly named by their Committee & we had not proceeded more than half a Mile before we were met by a Number of Men much intoxicated. On finding who we were they instantly presented at us and as instantly our escort through themselves between us which in all probability saved us at that time. We were ordered back to the Rendezvous and on the way I was a little ahead of the party accompanied only by one of their principals. On considering what I had already suffered and the danger I should again be exposed to I determined on attempting my escape. Accordingly watching my opportunity I gave my Horse the Spur & rode into the Woods. After riding a short distance I stoped to listen ⟨if⟩ I was persued but hearing no noise, I ⟨give the⟩ credit to the humanity of my companion. I proceeded on and attempted to gain the road leading from Washington to Pittsburgh in which I succeeded and Continued my rout to the River Monongahela. Having reconnoitred the landing and finding everything quiet I led my Horse into a Boat, rowed myself across the River and arrived at Pittsburgh about three O’Clock in the Morning of Friday the 18th. July. The same day ⟨–⟩ men made their appearance in town to demand certain terms of General Nevill & myself. They delivered me a paper writing signed Hugh Scott Junr. Chairman, in which they demanded that I should send all the Summon’s (as they called them) in my possession and expected that I should make no returns of the processes I had served to Court, which they said would satisfy the people & add to my safety. To this I replied verbally in presence of Mr. Brakenridge & others that I should send them no Papers & that the processes which I had served should be returned as was my duty. This answer they said would not satisfy the People and after taking the opinion of Mr. Brakenridge how far the process would affect their property and after receiving their answer from General Nevill (which was not very favorable to their views) they left the Town. By this time the Inhabitants began to be much alarmed & it was mentioned to Genl. Nevill & myself that some persons were whispering how far it might be justifiable to give us up rather than have the town destroyed. In such a situation it behoved us to keep a good look out and to think of our personal safety. Major Thomas Butler very kindly offered his protection and we are much indebted to him for his manly & decided conduct on the occasion, but as our presence could be of no further use in the Country it was our wish to proceed to the seat of Government as soon as possible. We had good information both by letter & otherwise that it was not practicable for us to proceed with any kind of safety by the direct road as Parties would intercept us. We therefore determined by the advice of a few friends to descend the Ohio river and a Barge was provided accordingly. On an application to Major Butler he very chearfully ordered an Officer and ten Men for this service and we embarked about ten O’Clock in the night of Saturday the 19th. July. We reached Wheelen the following Evening where we declined the further service of the Officer & two of the Men and proceeded on to Marietta where we arrived on Tuesday Morning. Much attention was paid us by the Inhabitants but we are particularly indebted to Colonel Sproat who supplied us with every thing we stood in need of and to Lieutenant Miggs of the Militia who offered to March through the Wilderness with the men under his command. However this we declined as it would have been a fatiguing tour to them and would have been attended with delay to us. We proceeded by Clarksburgh accompanied by two faithful guides who had been recommended to us by Colonel Sproat and arrived here on the 8th. day of August. In addition to this statement of facts, I beg leave to notice some points in Governor Mifflin’s speech to the Legislature, that I entered the Western Country at a time “peculiarly inauspicious.” If any thing here is meant respecting me it would imply that the time was in my choice but it should be recollected that it was my duty to execute the processes previous to the day of return which was the 12th. August. That I met some difficulties and encountered some opposition is very true and I shall make no comments on these with respect to what the Commissioners appointed by the Governor now to the Westward have said in their communication to him of the 22d August. I think it proper for me to observe that I knew nothing of Dr. Baird or his meeting and I differ very materially with them where they say that it was on the night of the 15th. July thirty of my men instantly flew to Arms and marched towards Nevills House. Now I do again assert that it was between the hours of eleven & twelve O’Clock in the forenoon of the same day that about the same number assembled at Millers House & fired upon Genl Nevill & myself. The inference from this mistatement of facts is that the proceedings were influenced by a sudden gust of passion excited by intoxication common enough in the Evening, but the truth is that the hour mentioned in the forenoon neither a gust of passion nor heat of Liquor are probable circumstances. I beg Sir you will pardon me for stating facts in a more particular manner than perhaps the subject required, but I esteem it necessary to my own Honor and for public satisfaction that the truth and whole truth relative to my Official conduct should be known. If it has met the approbation of the Executive I am fully compensated for the difficulties I have encountered. I have the honor to be
With every sentiment of esteem & respect   Sir   Your Obedient & very hume servt.

D LenoxMarshall for the Pennsylvania District
The Honble.Alex Hamilton Esquire


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Ellery, 9 September 1794
From: Ellery, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Newport, Rhode Island] September 9, 1794. “I acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 21st. of the last month with the Treasurer’s draughts … and shall attend to the directions therein contained.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Samuel Hodgdon, 9 September 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hodgdon, Samuel

[Philadelphia] September 9, 1794. Requests Hodgdon to furnish a return of what accoutrements and arms for the cavalry are in the public stores and to specify those which have been lately sent forward.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Mifflin, 9 September 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Mifflin, Thomas

War department, Sept. 9th 1794.
Sir.

The last intelligence from the Western Counties of this State, which has been communicated to you, leaves the issue of measures for an amicable accommodation, so very doubtful, and the season for military operation is wearing away so fast, that the President, with great reluctance, finds himself under a necessity of putting in motion, without further delay, all the militia which have been called for.
I am therefore instructed by him to request, that your Excellency will immediately cause the quota of this State to assemble. The general rendezvous appointed by the President, for all those who may not lie westward of it, is Carlisle, where also the Jersey Militia will be ordered to repair without delay. Particular places of rendezvous for local convenience will be regulated by your Excellency. I was glad to understand from you, in conversation, that Philadelphia, Reading, and Lancaster, were intended, as at these places, the United States have already contracts. Will it not be most convenient for the militia to bring with them their own supplies from their own homes, or neighbourhoods, to the places of first rendezvous, to be compensated for them by the public?
The Superintendent of military Stores, Mr: Hodgdon, will wait upon you, to ascertain what proportions of tents, camp equipage, ought to be sent to the different places of rendezvous, in order that the Militia may be accommodated in the most convenient manner.
I shall in the course of the day call on your Excellency to adjust in a personal conference anything further that may occur.
The President, in making this final call entertains a full confidence that Pennsylvania will upon an occasion which so immediately affects herself, as well as the general interests, display such zeal and energy as shall maintain unsullied her character for discernment, love of order, and true patriotism. It is unnecessary to add, that the part she shall act is of peculiar consequence to the welfare and reputation of the whole Union.
With the highest respect,   I have the honor to be,   Your Excellency’s   Most obedt: Servt.

Alexander Hamiltonon behalf of the Secry at War
His Excellency Governor Mifflin.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Edmund Randolph, 9 September 1794
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia September 9th 1794
Sir,

The President of the United States instructs me to request, that you will cause an inquiry to be immediately made, through some of the Officers of the Customs, into the damage sustained by the detention of the Brig William of Glasgow, a prize to a French Cruiser, while She was detained by Government for examination, whether she was not captured within the protection of our coast. It may perhaps be important to ascertain the time, when the damage accrued and through what means. You will be pleased to direct the persons, who shall be employed to inform the French Consul in Philadelphia of the time and place of their proceeding; in order that the persons interested in behalf of the Captors may be present, if they think proper.
These measures are adopted by the President, that he may have the whole subject before him, when he shall decide on the application made by the French minister, for compensation, and not because he has already decided in its favor. Those therefore who shall be appointed to inquire, will not give any intimation to the Consul or others, that the President has in the smallest degree prejudged the matter.
I have the honor, Sir, to be with great respect & esteem   Your most obedient Servant

Edm: Randolph
The Secretary of the Treasury


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Ellery, 10 September 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Ellery, William

[Philadelphia, September 10, 1794. The description of this letter in the dealer’s catalogue reads: “He discusses Ellery’s suit against Pierce—‘confide in the Jury’s doing their duty.’ Comments on funds to be sent to Ellery for use in building fortifications.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Richard Harrison, 10 September 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Harrison, Richard

Treasury DepartmentSeptember 10th 1794
Sir

Inclosed I transmit herewith, an Account of Mr. Le Maigres against the United States for the hire of his Vessell to carry Mr. Higginson, who was appointed by the President of the United States, Agent to go to the British West India Islands, on the subject of the American Vessells captured by the British Cruizers since the commencement of the War between France and England which Account you will be pleased to have adjusted with all possible dispatch.

The admission of the charge of forty Dollars noted at the foot of the account, must depend upon the question whether the United States are liable to make good expences of that Nature.
The only deduction to be made from the Account that I know of at present is the Sum of One hundred and seventeen Dollars credited by Mr. Le Maigre.
I am with Consideration   Sir   Your most Obedt. Servt

A Hamilton
Richard Harrison EsqrAuditor of the Treasury


Title: Enclosure: [To Peter Le Maigre], [30 August 1794]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Le Maigre, Peter

Alexander Hamilton Esqr in Behalf of the United States.
Philadelphia [August 30, 1794]

To Peter Le Maigre Dr.
1794

August 28.
For the Affreightment of the Brign.  Molly John Tremells Mastr. from 16th.  April last to this date inclusive, is 4  months & 12 days at Dollrs. 450 ⅌  mo. (as ⅌ Charter Party)
}
dollrs.
1980.—

Cr.

By Cash received ⅌ Capt. Tremells from Mr. Higginson

 117.—

Ballance due.     Dollrs.

1863.—

E. Excepted.
Philadelphia   30, Augt. 1794
Pr Lemaigre Esq.
20 days detention of the Pilot at  Fort Mifflin claiming 2 drs ⅌ diem  is Drs 40.––


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Samuel Hodgdon, 10 September 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hodgdon, Samuel

Philadelphia Sepr10. 1794
Sir

I request that you will immediately forward to Winchester in Virginia 75 pair Horsemen’s pistols 150 ditto swords with Belts 200 valices, to Baltimore in Maryland, 50 pair of Horsemens pistols, one hundred ditto Swords with belts and 100 valices, together with Knapsacks canteens & Camp kettles sufficient for 1000 men.
Tents and the remainder of the camp equipage for the Maryland Militia must be forwarded to Frederick Town in that state. Whatever goes to Maryland must be addressed to the order of George Gale Esquire. Not a moment should be lost in forwarding the remainder of the Camp Equipage destined for Virginia.
I rely too that all the needful ammunition of every sort will be forwarded without delay, that for Virginia to Winchester, that for Maryland to Williamsport that for Jersey & Pensylvania to Carlisle. It is the intention that one half the Artillery go to the Virginia & Maryland Militia who are to unite at Fort Cumberland—the other half to Carlisle.
The remainder of the horsemens pistols swords belts & valices which you have in store except what may be necessary for Lt Clough’s detatchment are to be forwarded forthwith to Trenton.
With consideration & esteem   I am Sir   Your obedt ser

A Hamilton
Samuel Hodgsdon Esqr

Be so good as to send me a copy of this letter.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Isaac Holmes, 10 September 1794
From: Holmes, Isaac
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Collectors Office Charleston [South Carolina] 10th. Sepr 1794
Sir

The American Schooner named the Hawke Enroled and Licenced in this Office John Cook Master did on the 16 May last clear from this port for the port of St Marys in the United States during the period of the Embargo, but instead of proceeding to her place of destination while at Sea She altered her Voyage and proceeded to a Foreign Port in the West Indies vizt Port au Paix. While there Capn Cook Sold the Vessel to Capt Alexander Bolchez a French Citizen who fitted the American schooner Hawke as a Privateer and arrived in this Port with a Legal French Commission. I considered this Conduct as a gross Violation of the Laws of the United States and Seized the Vessel. The Trial commenced in the Court of Admiralty for the district and was argued for four days. A decree of Condemnation passed against the Hawke. The Claimants then appealed to the Fœderal District Court for the Ultimate decision of the Question whether the Vessel is liable to forfeiture for having departed to a foreign port without first delivering up her Enrolment and Licence to the Collector of the district. The Judge of the Court delivered up this Vessel to the Claimant Bolchez with her tackle furniture Apparel & Guns &ca upon receiving sufficient Security to the amount of the Value of the Vessel agreeably to 66 Sec: of the Collection Law for the Ultimate decision. Upon the delivery of the Vessel armed as She came into the Port to the French Capt Bolchez he immediately applied to me to clear out his Vessel armed as she came in—to which I refused as I considered the Hawke to be still an American Bottom, untill the Court of appeals had establised or rejected her Condemnation and therefore to suffer her to depart with arms & a Commission would have been in my Judgment a National Commitment. However to prevent a mistake I wrote to the Fœderal Attorney the enclosed Letter his answer you will See annexed. In consequence of that answer and the enclosed Order of Court I cleared out the Hawke much against my Judgment as I still hold She is an American Bottom untill her Case should be determined by the Court of appeals. I also wrote to the Governor a Similar Letter. He acquiesced with the Attorney. I will remark here that the appeal is made by the Claimant with no other View than to procure time for the payment of the Value of the Forfeiture 12,000 dollars as there never could have been a Clearer forfeiture. I have thought proper to represent this Matter to you as this Vessel from her Construction is Capable of doing vast Injury and I cannot my Self see that she was entitled to a Clearance from this port while her Case was undetermined. The probability that the injuries & damage She may Commit may upon this ground be retorted to the United States has induced me to be particular on this Subject and as our Neutrality may be committed I have thought it best to give this statement requesting your Opinion.
With great Esteem   I am   Sir   Your most Obt Sert

Isaac Holmes Col
Alexander Hamilton EsqrSecretary of the Treasury


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Sim Lee, 10 September 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lee, Thomas Sim

Duplicate
War DepartmentSepr 10th. 1794
Sir

I have the honor of your Excellency’s letter of the 4th Instant.
I am now instructed by the President to request that the whole quota of Maryland may be assembled and marched as speedily as may be towards their general rendezvous, Williamsport. It was my intention to forward to Frederick town the tents and other articles of Camp Equipage, in order that they might be there furnished to the Troops which came from below. But I will endeavour agreeably to your intimation to change this arrangement as to Knapsacks Canteens & Camp kettles. Swords & pistols for 100 horse will also be forwarded to Baltimore without delay. It would rather involve too great a circuit to send the necessary articles to George Town but I will endeavour so to regulate the matter as to render it possible if demed indispensable.
The assembling a part of your Militia at Fort Cumberland will facilitate the general arrangement; for that is the place intended for a junction of the Militia of Virginia & Maryland.
The season is so far advanced that all possible dispatch is essential.
This final resolution has been taken by the President in consequence of a very undecided state of things in the western Counties of this State when the last intelligence from thence came away. It appears that although the restoration of Order had gained powerful advocates & supporters; yet that there is a violent and numerous party which does not permit to count upon a submission to the laws without the intervention of force. Hence the advanced state of the Season considered, it became indispensable to put the force which had been provisionally called for in motion. I advise the appointment of a person in capacity of Quartermaster & Commissary of Military stores to the detachment with a competent Salary, I should think the pay & emoluments of a Major might suffice. But I do not make this observation as a restriction. I have been also honored with your letter of the 28th of August last, and shall desire the co-operation of the Officers of the Customs accordingly. The object of the Eighth section has [been] anticipated by an instruction to the Collector of Baltimore in consequence of a representation from that place.
With perfect respect   I have the honor to be Sir   Your most obedt servt

A Hamilton
His ExcellencyThomas S. L⟨ee⟩ Esqre


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Mifflin, 10 September 1794
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Mifflin, Thomas

Treasury Department, Sept 10 1794.
Sir.

Having understood from you, that it was your intention, to appoint a person as Quarter Master to the detachment of Militia of this State, about to assemble, and march, and confiding that the person whom you may choose will be both capable and trustworthy, I propose, as a matter of simplicity and convenience, to commit to him the procuring of Waggons for the transportation of every thing connected with the detachment, except provisions, during the expedition, and also the procuring of forage and fuel for the detachment to the rendezvous at Carlisle. There some general ulterior arrangement will be made. I except provisions, because they are already embraced in another arrangement.

Allow me therefore to request, that you will inform me who the person designated for this service is, and will direct him to furnish me without delay, with an estimate specifying particulars of the articles to be furnished, and their cost, in order to the requisite pecuniary supply.
With perfect respect, I have the honor to be,   your Excellency’s Most obedient Servt.

A. Hamilton
His ExcellencyThe Governor of Pennsylvania.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Howell, Junior, 11 September 1794
From: Howell, Joseph, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

W. D. Accountants OfficeSeptember 11th. 1794
Sir
I have to request in the absence of the Secretary of War, you will be pleased to direct the sum of five thousand dollars to be placed in the hands of the Treasurer, being for the use of the department of war, namely—

For the pay of the recruits
2000.

“   the recruiting service
1500

“   incidental expences
1500

Dollars
5000

I am Sir &c
Joseph Howell
The Secretary of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Jay, 11 September 1794
From: Jay, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

London 11 Septr. 1794
Dear Sir
I had last week the Pleasure of recieving from you a few Lines by Mr. Blaney. You will recieve this Letter by the Hands of Mr. Morris. He will also be the Bearer of my Dispatches to Mr. Randolph. They will be voluminous, particular, and in many Respects interesting. It should not be forgotten that there is Irritation here, as well as in America, and that our party Processions, Toasts; Rejoicings &c &c. have not been well calculated to produce goodwill and good Humour. The government nevertheless destinguishes between national acts, and these party Effusions, and have entertained hitherto an opinion and Belief that the Presidt. and our Governmt. and nation in general, were really desirous of an amicable Settlement of Differences, and of laying a Foundation for Friendship as well as peace between the two Countries.
The Secretary’s Letters by Mr. Munro, and his Speech on his Introduction to the Convention have appeared in the English papers. Their Impression in this Country may easily be conjectured. I wish they had both been more guarded. The Language of the United States at Paris and at London, should correspond with their neutrality. These things are not favorable to my Mission.
A speedy Conclusion to the negociation is problematical, tho not highly improbable, If I should be able to conclude the Business on admissible Terms, I shall do it, and risque Consequences; rather than by the Delays of waiting for, and covering myself by opinions & Instructions hazard a Change in the Disposition of this Court—for it seems our Country, or rather some parts of it, will not forbear Asperities. I hear that Virga. is taking british property by Escheat; and other things which in the present moment are unseasonable, are here reported.
As the proposed Articles are under Consideration—as they have already undergone some Alterations, and as I am not without Hopes of other and further Amendments, I really think they ought not to be published in their present crude State; especially as in the Course of a few weeks I expect to be able to communicate their ultimate Form. If then, they should not appear to me to be such as I ought to sign, I will transmit them, and wait for further Instructions.
I am Dear Sir   Yours sincerely
John Jay
Col. Hamilton