Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 12 July 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Sir
New York July 12, 1799

The contracts which have been made for the supply of the troops on the sea board have contemplated a small scale of issues, where to be worth the undertaking, the price must be high. Accordingly in most of the States the price is much greater than it ought to be. It has occurred to me as possible to reduce it.
It is in the option of the Government to station its troops where it will. It is not very material while unemployed whether a station be on the North or on the South of a line which divides two states, as at Uxbrige in Massachusetts or Gloucester in Rhode Island or Norwich in Connecticut—at East Chester in New York Brunswick or Trenton in New Jersey—the North or the South side of the Potomack &c.
On this basis it may be made known to the several Contractors in States in the vicinity of the contemplated stations that it is the intention to assemble as soon as may be at one point three Regiments—That for the present it is thought indifferent where the precise point may be within a certain extent to be in each case defined—That the election would be materially influenced by the cheapness of the Rations—that the Contracts heretofore had been predicated upon a different view of the force to be supplied—that consequently it has been judged expedient to invite a competition upon this basis of the concentration of a considerable body at one point—and that eventually the disposition of the force would be in a great degree regulated by the result of the Offers which should be made toward forming new Contracts. This accordingly would be to be done.
And I shall be much disappointed if the experiment does not produce a great saving. Should you approve the idea no time is to be lost in giving it effect in order that early measures may be taken for Winter Quarters.
In your proposals for future contracts will it not be adviseable to invite offers upon different alternatives? 1. the supply of all the troops except those composing the Western army. 2 the supply of all the troops within any one of three great Districts. Georgia South & North Carolina & Virginia forming one—Maryland Pensylvania Delaware New Jersey & New York forming another—The four Eastern states & Vermont forming a third. 3 The supply of the troops within any one of five great districts Georgia South & N Carolina forming one Virginia & Maryland another Pensylvania Delaware & New Jersey a third New York Connecticut & Vermont a fourth Rhode Island Massachusettes & New Hampshire a fifth. Lastly the supply of the troops within each state.
I think it very likely that the combinations of Individual Interest on this plan would enable you to make a much better bargain than upon any other. Tis certain the Government pays much too dear now for its supplies of provisions.
With great respect   I have the honor to be   Sir   Yr Obed ser
The Secy of War


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 12 July 1799
From: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Charleston [South Carolina] July 12, 1799. “… I have found many officers in my division very fond of throwing off their uniform & appearing in frocks. I have directed them always to wear their uniforms; we discussed, & I think agreed on the propriety of that measure at Philadelphia, but I do not see it in the regulations. I wish some general rule was made on the subject, and particularly that the same system in every respect should be adhered to in my division which you establish in yours. Our artillery Corps here are very thin, I will be obliged to you to give them directions to recruit.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Louis Le Guen, 13 July 1799
From: Guen, Louis Le
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Cher Général
Morris Ville [Pennsylvania] 13. Juillet 1799.

J’ai Eu L’honneur de vous Ecrire, Et plus depuis faire prïer par Mr. Stoughton, de M’envoyer Les Observations de Monsieur Tilghman, Les reponsès de Mrs. fitzimon Et Morris, et Votre Avis Sur Ce que Jaurait à faire. Voilla, cher Géneral, 19-Jours que Je les attand, pour me rendre a philadelphia. Jatribue Ce retard a vos fortes Occupations, et Néamoins Vous Suplie de me renvoyer Ses papiers et Vos Observations, pour de Suitte Me rendre a philadelphia.
Veuillés bien San retard avoir Eguard à ma Priere.
Jay L’honneu D’Estre Bien Sincerment   Votre tres Obet. Serviteur
L. Le Guen
Alexander Hamilton Esqr:


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Aaron Ogden, 13 July 1799
From: Ogden, Aaron
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir.
Elizabeth Town [New Jersey] July 13. 1799

Mr. Thomas Y How in answer to my enquiry whether a second Lieutenancy, in the 11th regiment, in addition to his appointment, as Secretary to the Inspector General, would suit his ideas, says, “As the measure has been proposed by General Hamilton, he will accept with pleasure.”
I have the honor to be   with the most perfect respect   your mo: ob. servt
Aaron Ogden
Major General Alexander Hamilton.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus King, 15 July 1799
From: King, Rufus
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Dear sir
London July 15, 1799

The french still maintain themselves in switzerland tho’ unless soon and strongly reinforced they will be driven out of it. The success of the Allies has been almost uninterupted in Italy, from whence according to present appearances the Enemy must be in a short time be totally expelled. Thus far the Coalition has performed Prodigies—but the confederates are not without mutual Jealousies, which will increase with their success, and which already has had the Effect of preventing an agreement upon a precise and ultimate object. Between Eng. and Russia the greatest union and confidence exist, and these Powers do not disagree in what ought to be the End to be aimed at and avowed. An uncommon coldness and even more than coldness exists between Austria & England, and between the former & Russia there is less cordiality than could be wished, & expected. The issue of the campaign for these Reasons is less certain than it would be, were the Allies heartily & disinterestdly engaged in the only species of war that can give Peace and security to the different nations of Europe.
It is extremely difficult yet to understand the late changes at Paris; there are Persons who see in them the death Blow of french Republicanism, I doubt very much this Opinion, & am inclined to consider the last in the same light as I have done the former Revolutions. I did expect that the changes wd. be followed by measures of more Energy than have been adopted. There seems to be no reason, to suppose that we are likely to be benefited by the Revolution; Seiyes opinions concerning America are no secret, and they give us no room to expect a Treatment different from that we have so long and so patiently endured.
The inclosure relates to a subject that I cease to write or talk of, for reasons that you will be at no loss to conjecture.
Adieu
K.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 16 July 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir
War Department 16th. July 1799

I received this morning your letter of the 12th July instant on the subject of a modification of the invitations to supply rations for the troops of the United States on the Sea board.
You will recollect that the advertisement, calling for proposals for the year 1799, is dated the 21st March ulto., and that the time within which proposals may be received is limited to the 25th July instant. Altho’ I could have wished for your ideas sooner, it may not be too late to make some use of them. I shall attempt it. You will also by adverting to the copies of the Contracts with which you have been furnished for the supplies for the Troops, and my letter of instructions upon which these have or ought to have been founded, perceive, that the object you have in view for the ensuing year, has been substantially effected for the present year, in the articles which provide for a diminution of the price of the ration, as the issues at any one place shall be encreased.
There is nothing, you will also see, to prevent one or more persons from offering to supply for the whole troops within the United States, or the troops in any combination of the States.
Whatever may be the result of this measure I shall take respecting this subject, with those who have sent or may yet send in proposals before the 26th July, it need not delay any arrangements, which you contemplate, or any orders it may be necessary for me to issue relative to the Winter Quarters of the Troops especially as nothing has occured to me to induce an opinion that any change ought to be made in the places fixed on in my letter of instructions.
Should more eligible places have occured to you, I shall be obliged to you to mention them.
An answer to your letter of the 6th inst. is still delayed for want of a return which I expect from the Q M Genl.
I have the honor to be   Sir, your obedient Servant
James McHenry
Major General Alexander Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Morris, 16 July 1799
From: Morris, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Albany, July 16, 1799. “I am compelled by the impossibility of converting landed property into cash to make an offer to my Creditors of all my property and to seek from them a discharge of my debts. I need not enter into a detail of the Circumstances that have led me into this unpleasant Situation. suffice it to say that I was seized with the Mania of the times and have incurred debts in the purchase of property which is at the present Moment perfectly unsaleable.… My first object at present is to get a discharge from my debts without taking the benefit of the Insolvent Act. If in this Attempt I should fail, however painful the Step may be I shall be compelled to resort to the other.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 17 July 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York, July 17, 1799. “Power has been given to the Inspector General to appoint a Secretary. For some time I have employed in this Capacity a person, who is a mere copyist, with an allowance less than the law authorises to be given to the Secretary. But I have now appointed as permanent Secretary, Thomas Y How of Trenton in New Jersey. The Kind of person required for this station, and who has actually been obtained, is such, that a Captain’s emoluments afford a very inadequate compensation. Hence I am led to request for Mr. Howe the appointment of second Lieutenant in the Eleventh Regiment, a circumstance which will be perfectly agreeable to its Commandant.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, [17 July 1799]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

My Dear Sir
[New York, July 17, 1799]

I perceive by your letter of the 16th. that mine of the 12th has not been rightly understood. Its principal object was the supply of the present year. This it aimed at cheapening by exciting a competition among the actual Contractors, on the ground that the troops, while not required for actual service, might be stationed collectively where the supply was cheapest, as at Brunswick or Trenton in New Jersey, or East Chester or New York or Bristol in Pensylvania, it being immaterial whether three Regiments are at one or the other of those places and the Government having its option to station them at either. Thus the Contractors in Pensylvania New Jersey & New York might be induced to bid against each other. So the Contractors in Maryland & Virginia it being indifferent whither the three Regiments shall be on one or the other side of the Potowmack.
In Massachusettes the ration is Eleven Cents & five Mills. This is reasonable & shews how it may be afforded. In the state of Rhode Island it is fourteen Cents. No reason for this difference. In Connecticut it is still higher with still less reason. The three Regiments for the Northern Quarter will of course be stationed in Massachusettes in the vicinity of Uxbrige.
The Price in New York when issues exceed 400 is 16 cents & 5 Milles. This is much too high though predicated on the old ration. At Brunswick in Jersey, it is 16 Cents & 2½ Milles predicated on the New Ration. This is higher still. At Trenton it is 16. This is still too high. But the difference ought in my opinion to give a preference to Trenton over Brunswick. I think however upon my plan a reduction may be obtained at both places. And tis by care in operations of this kind that œconomy on a large scale will be attained.
I hope I have now explained my self sufficiently. If your views vary in consequence of the explanation you will inform me officially—if not privately. And I shall govern my self accordingly. It was my intention to have written my self to the Contractors respecting Winter Quarters after having settled with you the General Principles. But if you think proper to do it yourself it will be equally agreeable to me. But I shall be glad previously to know your intention & submit to you some ideas.
Yrs. Affecly.
A Hamilton
P.S My suggestions as to the Contract for next year were merely incidental. I had not seen your advertisement as I recollect.
Js. McHenry Esq


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Parker, 17 July 1799
From: Parker, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Winchester [Virginia] July 17, 1799. “… A partial Supply of Cloathing has at last arrived.… I Cannot help however Complaining of the Waistcoats that have been sent on one part of which—I mean the Backs—is absolutely Composed of Indifferent negro Cotton which is peculiarly disgusting to the Soldiery in this part of the Country.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Y. How, 18 July 1799
From: How, Thomas Y.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Trenton July 18th 1799

Since the receipt of your letter of the 3rd inst., which did not come into my hands untill the 11th, I have been making the necessary preparations. I have now the honor to inform you that I am in readiness, and wait your orders.
With the highest respect   I am yr. obt. servant
Thos: Y: How


Title: General Orders, 20 July 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander,Ellery, Abraham R.
To:

New York, July 20th. 1799.

The general court martial of which Major Willcock was president, having convicted Joseph Perkins, a private soldier of the 1st regiment of artillerists and engineers of the crime of desertion, aggravated by that of liberating and taking off with him two prisoners confined under the sentence of a court martial for desertion, over whom he was sentinel, and having condemned him to suffer death: The President of the United States, in pursuance of the authority vested in him, and considering the flagrancy and complication of the crime of the said Joseph Perkins, and not only the beneficial influence, but the absolute necessity of well placed examples in military service, has thought fit by warrant under his hand and the seal of the War Office, to order and direct that the said sentence shall be put into execution.
Accordingly Major General Hamilton appoints wednesday the 24th Inst. between the hours of eight and ten in the forenoon for the execution of said sentence at Fort Jay, at which time and place the said Joseph Perkins is to be shot to death.
The Reverend Mr Mason will visit the prisoner in his confinement. The garrison under arms will be present at the execution. Major Hoops will make the necessary arrangements.
Examples of capital punishment in the army of the United States are as rare as they are painful. It were to be wished that the crime for which it is now to be inflicted, was equally rare; a crime which disgraces the offender by the double character of perfidy and cowardice; abandoned must the man be who takes the rewards of his country, pledges himself by oath to its service, and meanly deserts its defence amidst prospects of foreign dangers. May the character of the American soldiery cease to be stained by examples of such baseness; but, if a sense of faith and duty, under a mild treatment, shall continue insufficient to restrain from the commission of a crime so pernicious, the severity of punishment must do it; while the past forbearance of the President demonstrates his reluctance to exert capital punishment, his decision in the present case ought to be received by the Army, as a full proof of his firm determination, to repress, by adequate means, offences destructive to the service.
Abraham R. ElleryAssistant Adjutant General.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 20 July 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, July 20, 1799. “Mr Jonathan Williams the gentleman I had intended for an assistant to Mr. Francis has suggested to me that he would be glad you should read certain papers explanatory of his conduct in a transaction relative to his Father in law Mr Alexander, which Mr Francis, on a representation by Mr Morris had viewed in a criminal light, and objected to the proposed association on that account. The inclosed papers are those alluded to with my letter which accompanied them. From the vague manner Mr. Francis expressed himself when he returned them, neither wholly acquitting nor blaming him I do not think the appointment can take place with his consent. Can I make it without his consent? Your regulations for supplying the army contemplates assistants to the Purveyor and as Mr Francis is also Purveyor for the Navy Department can I give him an assistant without the concurrence of the Secry. of the Navy? These questions require some attention. I proposed to the Secy. of the Navy a joint letter to Mr. Francis on the subject of his resigning absolutely the office.… So the matter rests at present. Nothing is suffering in the mean time.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Parker, 20 July 1799
From: Parker, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Winchester [Virginia] July 20, 1799. “One Quere in my last letter you did not answer (to wit) whether an officer had permission to take his Slave into service and whether any or what Compensation would be allowed him. I observe in the Regulations for Straw & fuel; servants & Batmen not soldiers, are mentioned But I have seen no law that allows them either pay Cloathing or provisions. You will oblige me by Enabling me to give an answer to my officers on the Subject.…”


Title: Circular to the Commandants of Regiments, 22 July 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commandants of Regiments

Circular
New York July 221799
Sir

Agreeably to the intimation of the Secy of War I transmit you an extract of a letter from him of the tenth instant by which you will perceive the causes which have hitherto interfered with a supply of cloathing adequate to the demand. If the assurance of the Contractor can in any degree be relied upon, the supply in future will more than keep pace with it.
With great consideration   I am Sir   Yr Obed ser


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 22 July 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War Department, July 22, 1799. “I recd. this morning your letter of the 17th July inst. and have submitted Mr. Ths. Y. How to the President to fill the office of 2d Lieutenant, and recommended the appointment.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Lloyd Moore, 24 July 1799
From: Moore, Thomas Lloyd
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Bristol [Pennsylvania] July 24, 1799. “… I made a trip to the Westward some time ago in order to visit some of my recruiting Posts, and am happy to inform You that the Officers conduct themselves with great propriety, and they have met with considerable success, but they all agree in opinion that the late General Orders will put almost an entire stop to the recruiting business in Pennsylvania.… I can inform you that I have 200 to 250 Recruits on their march to Head Qrs. where they will arrive about the last of this month.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Parker, 24 July 1799
From: Parker, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Winchester [Virginia] July 24, 1799. “I have received your letter of the 12th Instant. Since the date of my last letter the Residue of the cloathing mentioned in yours have come to hand. we are much in want of the Horsemans Tents for the officers & I will thank you to Request of the S of war to order a Marque for my use as the one sent from Shepherds Town is not fit for Service.… Majr Campbell writes me that his officers are greatly in want of money & hopes that at all Events their Subsistence money may be sent to them. Be pleased to answer my Quere with Respect to Off Servants not Soldiers.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, [25 July 1799]
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

My dear Sir.
[Philadelphia, July 25, 1799]

I request your opinion, upon the inclosed circular, to the different contractors &c for supplies of rations for the ensuing and the present year, predicated upon the ideas, communicated to me, by your letter of the 12th inst. and that you will return it to me and your opinion without delay if it, or any thing like it is to be acted upon.
Some doubts have rested on my mind, whether such a step, might not injure the business of procuring contracts in future, as a few of the existing contracts for the present year embrace whole States. Believing however, the issues contemplated by the contractors generally were upon a smaller scale than that for three collective Regiments, and that neither their means nor arrangements may reach the capacity of the intended supplies, and a disappointment from their failure might be experienced, I have concluded if your opinion continues the same, to send a circular to each contractor, and to each person from whom I have received proposals under the advertisement of the 21st of March ulto.
This, the 25th is the last day for receiving proposals for rations &c agreeably to that advertisement. I have before observed it admits of a contract for the purpose of any extent, from particular posts to whole States, and any number of the latter on the sea board—the same with respect to the western army.

I mean that you should direct yourself, whatever respects winter quarters, general principles being settled.
Yours affecy

James McHenry
25 July 1799
Gen Alex Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 25 July 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir,
War Department 25th July 1799

I enclose a Warrant, under the signature of the President, and the seal of the War office of the United States, for the execution of Richard Hunt, a Serjeant in a Company of the Second regiment of Artillerists, and Engineers, commanded by Captain James Stille, who was tried on a charge of desertion, and also of carrying away the money for their pay entrusted to him, by the men of his company, and sentenced to suffer death, by a General Court Martial, held at the City Hall, of the City of New York on the 16t day of April last, by your order.
The President in his letter enclosing the Warrant to me, expresses a wish “that Courts Martial may be advised, to be as cautious, and as regular as possible, in all their proceedings, especially in cases of life, because the discipline of the army, will depend much on this habit,” and adds “Yet if you and General Hamilton, think that one example, may suffice, for the purposes of public justice, the execution of Hunt or Perkins, may yet be respited.”
You will issue such orders, as in your judgment may be proper, and return the Warrant for deposit in this office.
I am with great respect   your obedt. servent
James McHenry
Major Genl Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John J. U. Rivardi, 25 July 1799
From: Rivardi, John J. U.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir,
Niagara [New York] July 25th 1799

I had the honor of receiving last Evening your letter of the 25th. Ulto. which claims my warmest acknowledgments not only for the attention paid to my different requests, but also for the very delicate Manner in which you Notice an expression of my letter of the 21st. of March. The impropriety of it Struck me after the Post was gone. I Shall not endeavour to apologize for it by any other way than by confessing that it was the momentary effect of the impatience & disgust created on a mind debilitated by Sickness & Soured by circumstances. Permit me to assure you Sir, that my conduct will convince you that I am as anxious as any Officer in the Army to discharge in their fullest extent the duties of my Station.
Receive also my Sincere thanks for your explanation of the expressions contained in the Secretary’s report—it is perfectly Satisfactory & I have to lament that I wrote with perhaps Too much heat on the Subject.
I am perfectly of your opinion that a Separation between the Engineering & Artillery branches would be necessary to the perfection of each. The Officers belonging to the former ought of course to be well acquainted with both—but their number need not be large. The Officers belonging to the latter may render great Services to their country & Justice to their comissions without being Skilled in the former. The Mode of forming Brigades of Engineers as adopted by the Brittish Seems to me to be a very good one.
As you will See on the ground the difference between the English & French exercise of Field pieces, I Shall Say Nothing concerning the facility with which the latter is performed—only I beg to observe that the first Mates being within the wheels in the Brittish method they are always maimed if the piece is dismounted by a Shot or if it bursts. They are also frequently in the way of the guner who directs the piece & who ought to See not only before him but to his right & left—The dragrope requires a great Space of ground—four pieces with Slings can be manœuvered where two would hardly find room if they had to be moved by dragropes.
A Single Ball in the latter Method may also Sweep away the half of the men when marching & the whole when dressed in parade. Encouraged by your condescension in receiving my observations I shall beg leave to remark that too little has been done in the Artillery establishment for Sappers & Miners—Separate companies of which were deemed the best plan both in Germany & in France. It is a Service which requires much Knowledge on the part of the Officers & great practice on that of the men—who generally are better paid than any other Kind of Troops—in Austria they are educated from their infancy in Military School & are anexed but never incorporated with the Artillery. I do not Know if it would not be advisable also to have a proportion of bombardiers—in fact the division of the branches always brings nearer to perfection than attempts to encompass the whole.
I Shall in consequence of your instructions Call imediately Lieutt. Visher with his garrison & Military Stores leaving enough of the latter to make the Small detachment which will be left behind Comfortable. I return you, Sir, my warmest thanks for the arrangements which you have made for a Court of Inquiry. The Officers being Selected by you—there is no possibility of the choice Not being perfectly Satisfactory. I regret the departure of Doctor Coffin who was my most important Evidence, however I hope to have a Sufficient number of others.
You will have received Since plans of the river Miamy &a. I hope they will prove Satisfactory. I Shall endeavour after the Court is over to procure of the Brittish Engineers a Correct Map of the lakes & if I Succeed I may perhaps transmit Copies before Winter. I must only request to have Some large Velum Paper forwarded as well as brushes & a box of Reeves’s Colours. Mine are exhausted indeed for the last plans which I sent you I had to borrow those Articles which can not be procured here, of Captain Pilkington. I conceive also that there is little Necessity of keeping a Garrison at Mackinac. That Post is out of the reach of assistance in case of a War & its chief object which was to Secure the Indian Trade is done away Since the Brittish have formed an Establishment at St. Joseph where by dint of large presents they attract the furr traders the more easily as we do not enter in competition with them. Doctor Coffin will before the arrival of this letter be at New York. Our Sick are visited regularly by the Surgeons of the Brittish Garrison. pleasing as this act of Kindness is To me, I wish Sincerely that it may not be put to Too long a Trial. it was well understood at Doctor Coffin’s departure that if any charges were made they would fall on him. With regard To The procuring wood &a. by rotation I beg leave To State that there are few Posts labouring under greater disadvantages. We procure Wood from a greater distance than five miles. The Season for Cutting is Short considering the length of the Winter & the impracticability of the roads in the Spring & fall it becomes therefore Necessary To Station a Party of four or five men who by the Small allowance of five dollars extra are in my opinion paid little enough for their labour, the wearing off of their clothes & the torture arising from the Musketoes. I procured Several thousands of Pickets which will not cost Sixty dollars To The U. States. In fact I hope that when men are indispensably & constantly employed in works which they did not contemplate when they enlisted, that Small allowance will not be refused. I have the pleasure To inform you that the whole Fort is fraised new. I am Now making new Platforms where they were wanted. I Must further observe that at West Point Norfolk, Baltimore Detroit &c. wood is bought or procured by contract—here no contract can be made. Before I finish this letter I Shall State concerning Mr. Hodgdon that he had forwarded To me in the same letter two Invoices of the Same Tenor. I Supposed that it was a Mistake & that An other Invoice was left behind. I was confirmed in that opinion when I received two Tierces More than expressed in the Invoice & as they were without direction I had them opened & an Inventory forwarded. Finally I had letters which explained the business & Law that we had received all what was destined To This Post & Some Articles above which it Seems ought to have been directed To Oswego where I imediately dispatched them. It is a fact however that no Hogshead contained what was mentioned in the Invoices—but it is merely want of attention in those who packed up the clothing which otherwise arrived in very good condition. We issued yesterday the last infantry Coat.
I have the honor To be with most respectfull consideration   Sir   Your Most Obedient & Very humble Servant
J J U. RivardiMajr. 1st Regt. A & E.
Major General Ar. Hamilton

P. S. Captain Thompson who begs To be gratefully & respectfully remembered will set off in order To fetch his family as Soon as Lieutenant Visher arrives. I shall endeavour To engage here a Vessel To Send To Oswego—otherwise the Military Stores could not come on as boats there are very Scarce. Enoch Humphrey is here yet. I persuaded him To Stay as he will be an usefull evidence To me—besides that motive I am in hopes his nomination as Cadet will arrive Soon—he will be a most usefull person here as he can act as quarter Master. I am very happy To hear that there is a prospect of Some emoluments being granted To The persons acting in that capacity.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Jay, 29 July 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jay, John

My Dear Sir
New York July 29. 1799

The completion of the works in the vicinity of our City proceeds heavily. Some embarrassment is understood to arise in the War Department from the Question of Appropriations. I beg to be informed whether the sum appropriated by the Legislature of this State will come in aid of the Operation. Limited as that sum is, nothing upon a large scale can be undertaken in reference to it. Its Agency in fortifications on the Islands, at Powles Hook, and on the projection from Long Island opposite Governors Island (I forget at this moment its name) is the only one which can be useful.
With great respect & esteem   I have the honor to be Sir   Yr Obed serv
A Hamilton
His ExcellencyGovernor Jay


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 29 July 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Sir
New York July 29. 1799

I have the honor to acknowlege the receipt of your letter of the 25 instant inclosing a warrant for the execution of Serjeant Hunt.
I have reflected carefully on the point submitted to our joint consideration, and upon the whole I incline to the side of Forbearance.
The temper of our country is not a little opposed to the frequency of Capital punishment. Public opinion, in this respect, though it must not have too much influence, is not wholly to be disregarded. There must be some caution not to render our military system odious by giving it the appearance of being sanguinary.
Considering too the extreme lenity in time past, there may be danger of shocking even the opinion of the army by too violent a change. The idea of cruelty inspires disgust, and ultimately is not much more favourable to authority than the excess of lenity.

Neither is it clear that one example so quickly following upon the heels of another, in the same corps, will materially increase the impression intended to be made or answer any valuable purpose.
If for any or all of these reasons the utility of the measure be doubtful in favour of life it ought to be foresworn. It is the true policy of the Government to maintain an attitude which shall express a reluctance to strike united with a firm determination to do it whenever ⟨it⟩ shall be essential.
It is but too certain, that it will not be long before other instances will occur in which the same punishment will be decried for the same offence. To disseminate the examples of executions, so far as they shall be indispensable, will serve to render them more efficacious.
Under these impressions if I hear nothing to the contrary from you by the return of the Post I shall issue an order to the following effect “That though the President has fully approved the sentence of Serjeant Hunt and from the heinous nature of his conduct considers him as a very fit subject for punishment—yet being unwilling to multiply examples of severity, however just, beyond what experience may shew to be indispensable and hoping that the good faith and patriotism of the Soldiery will spare him the painful necessity of frequently resorting to them, he has thought fit to authorise a remission of the punishment; directing nevertheless that Serjeant Hunt be degraded from his Station.”
I request to be speedily instructed.
With great respect &c
The Secy of War


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Ebenezer Stevens, 29 July 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Stevens, Ebenezer

Sir
New York July 29. 1799

Inclosed is a ⟨plan⟩ for the uniforms &c of the army prepared at my request by Col Smith, with the aid of Col Fish and Capt Armstrong. I am desirous of seeing some models of Cloathing made agreeably to this plan—be⟨ginning wi⟩th those of the privates. It is my ⟨wish that⟩ the models may be framed as well with a view to the quality of the materials as to the fashions and ornaments of the Cloathing. The sooner they can be prepared, the better.
But to be the more certain that we meet the ideas of the framers of the plan—you will be pleased to have recourse to the assistance of Capt Armstrong who has been very obliging on the occasion and who I doubt not will with pleasure lend his further aid.
With great consideration   I am Sir   Your obed ser
A Hamliton
General Stevens


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Stoddert, 29 July 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Stoddert, Benjamin

Dr Sir
N. York July 29th. 1799

A pressure of various business has delayed a reply to your favor of the 19th. instant.
The principle you suggest for my consideration, though if it could be introduced it would work well, cannot in my opinion be put into practice. It would contravene too much, pretensions rooted as well in the human heart as in unconquerable prejudices of the military State, by which expression I include the naval Department. Carrying in the very fact, an avowed preference, humiliating to the pride of the Superior Officer and reversing the order of antecedent relations, a chearful submission could never be obtained.
The alternative you mention is the proper expedient, & a very necessary one it is. It will be happy if Congress can be induced to adopt it.
With very great esteem   I have the honor &c


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 30 July 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Sir
New York July 30, 1799

In the list of additional appointments, which you lately transmitted to me, I find the names of several persons as Captains and first Lieutenants in the 9th. 14th & 15 Regiments who were not before officers of those Regiments. Whether I have been in any instance accessory to a circumstance of this nature, I do not now recollect, but be this as it may, I am sorry that it has happened. For as it contravenes the reasonable expectations of the officers previously appointed it cannot fail to produce discontent, and it will be unfortunate to mingle this ingredient into the mass, at our first outset.
I must entreat that henceforth the routine of promotion may govern as to all the Regiments which have their field officers and even as to any one which has not its complement, that it may govern to the rank of Capt inclusively. And that I may be authorised to declare that this is the intention, saving cases of extraordinary preferment for extraordinary service. It is a point on which I am anxious.
Col Hall writes me that some of the late appointments have been dissatisfactory to his Regiment.
It is very desireable that the rules which are to regulate promotions should be fixed and promulged. This is a point which can no longer with convenience be left afloat. It is very important as fast as possible to ascertain and fix every part of our system.
I have the honor to be   Sir   yr obed ⟨ser⟩
The Secy of War


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 30 July 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Sir
New York July 30th 1799

On a subject, not very familiar to my experience I thot it well to consult others (one at a distance) which has occasioned a delay in fulfilling the object of your letter of the 24th of June respecting regulations for issuing straw, fuel &.
I send you herewith the result of my enquiries and reflections. In regard to fuel, the late improvements in the construction of chimneys by Count Rumford, which may be adopted in quarters and garrisons, has had influence in diminishing the quantity, which independant of this circumstance is conceived to be too liberal in your plan. This being in the view of œconomy a matter of great importance, I would advise that an abstract be made of those chapters of Court Rumford’s treatise which are applicable to chimnies in order that a printed copy be furnished to each commanding Officer of a Garrison &c. Mr Jonathan Williams would execute this in an eligible manner. The more Simple and concise the abstract, the better.
The Scheme of regulation now Submitted contemplates, likewise that the officers will be arranged in Messes of six to a Mess.
Give me leave to ask whether in the future construction of barracks it will not be expedient to have the rooms large enough to contain each twelve men. It has been found that messes of this number conduce to the comfort of the Tr⟨oops⟩ preventing waste & consequently rendering ⟨the⟩ Supply more ample. The effect of the arran⟨gement⟩ in relation to fuel is very obvious.
In the field it is usual for the ⟨troops⟩ to provide themselves with fuel; & straw is fur⟨nished⟩ as it can be had. The regulations are there⟨fore confin⟩ed to Troops in Garrisons & Quarters.
With great respect I ⟨have⟩ the honor to be, sir   yr. ob. Ser.
A. Hamilton
The Secy of War


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 31 July 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Sir
N. York July 31st. 1799

I have the honor to transmit the proceedings of two General Courts Martial in the cases of Capt. Frye & Doctor Osborne with transcripts of general Orders containing my opinion concerning them.
You will observe the ill use which has been made by Capt. Frye of a correspondence with you, and my remark on that point. It is understood that this circumstance had weight with the Court.
With great respect &c
Secy. of War


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 2 August 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Augt. 2d 1799

I always receive from my friend, his intimations, with at least a disposition to benefit by them. Your private note of the 31st ulto. recd yesterday morning with the proceedings of the general Court martial on Capn. Frye, suggests to me, either that the Court ought not to have suffered, my letter of the 10th of Jany to have weighed in their decision, or if it ought to have had influence, that they should have required from my office, the circumstance which occasioned it.
Could the Court have been ignorant, that I have nothing to do with receiving muster & pay rolls; that these are received and acknowledged by the accountant, and always without my privity or participation, unless, when through ignorance in the officer sending them, they are addressed to me, in which case, they are immediately and without examination as to who had mustered, referred to the accountant; or when some peculiarity accompanies them, requiring their communication from the accountant; that I act upon the accountants report only; issue warrants for the monies, and cause the same to be transmitted. If they knew all this, why not have inquired before suffering it to influence an opinion, into the circumstance which produced the letter in question. Why suppose, what was not the fact, that a correspondence existed between Cap Frye and the Secry. of war, after the appointment of Major Hoops to the command. It is not pleasant to have such ideas entertained and countenanced, especially when no such correspondence had been kept up or taken place.
But the letter in question is merely to transmit discharges for certain men of Cap Fryes company resulting from the muster roll. If any error has been fallen into, it was in directing these discharges to the Capn instead of passing them through Major Hoops to the Capn. I cannot at this moment recollect, the circumstance which induced to this mode of transmitting the discharges. I rather think it was at the instance of the accountant, or from information that Major Hoops was or would be absent from the garrison, or it might be from mere inattention. Be this however as it may, certainly infinitely more importance has been attached to this solitary letter, than it merits, and this has given me some pain.
I find upon inquiry, that the muster and pay roll acted upon by the accountant, was that made by Capn Frye, and for this reason. The muster and pay roll made out by Col. Stevens was for a part of the month of February only. vz. from the 1st. to the 18th. and not for the whole month which is required. Thus the accountant could not act upon, in consequence that sent by Frye for the whole of the same month was adopted.
You observe, in your general orders upon Fry’s having exercised this power. “The exercise of it, after such information, was consequently irregular and disorderly, nor can the seeming countenance which was subsequently given to his acts by the department of war vary their real nature. The circumstances which had intervened were probably unknown, and a disposition to give facility to the service must be presumed to have caused the Secretary to have overlooked the incompatibility of the proceedings with his instructions.”
The last part especially of this stricture does not appear to me, to have been necessary, and therefore ought to have been avoided, as implicating misconduct or want of consistency in the Secretary.
As to a correspondence with Frye, I informed Cap Frye on the 4th of Octbr. 1798, as follows. “Sir. on the 10th of Sept. Major Hoops was directed to repair to New York and assume the command of the troops in garrison in that harbour, and the general superintendance of the works and repairs to the fortifications ordered by the U.S. for the defence of that City. He is therefore, to be considered as Commandant of the harbour and of course, your reports to me will be made through him.”
This and the letter quoted by Cap Frye are the only letters which I find on record since the appointment of Major Hoops to his command. Is this a correspondence between the Secy. of War and Capn Frye?
These points, perhaps ought to have been more inquired into than to me, they appear to have been. At any rate it strikes me, that any supposed correspondence with an inferior officer, his superior being presumed present, has been too slightly examined and admitted.
I make these observations more freely to you, because I think the head of the department of war, ought not to be held up in a general order as having been ignorant of, or having been inattentive to, his duties; and because I perceive you entertain an opinion, that I have wantonly or ignorantly given orders to inferior officers within the command of their superior. This is not the case whatever may have been insinuated to you to the contrary.
Your truly & affecy
James McHenry
Gen Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Jay, 3 August 1799
From: Jay, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Dear Sir
Albany 3 Augt. 1799

I was this morning favored with yours of the 29 ulto. requesting to be informed, whether the Sum appropriated by the Legislature of this State, will come in aid of the completion of the works in the vicinity of New York?
The act passed the 3d. of april last, for the paymt. of certain officers of governmt. and other contingent Expences, contains the following clause—it is the third from the End of the act—
“And be it further enacted, that until further legislative Provision be made, all further Expenditures under the act, entitlled ‘an act for the further Defence of this State, and for other purposes’ shall cease, so far forth as respects the Erection of new fortifications, or the completion of such as have been erected or constructed.”
I presume that the Reason of this Clause may be inferred from the last Clause in the Act, whereby the Comptroller is directed to liquidate the Expences encurred by the fortifications in this State; and also to liquidate with the Secy. of the Treasury, the specie Value of the assumed Debt &c.
I have the honor to be with great Esteem & Regard   Dear Sir Your most obt. Servt
John Jay
Majr. General Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Wilkinson, [3 August 1799]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wilkinson, James

[New York, August 3, 1799]

General Hamilton presents his Compliments to General Wilkinson& sends him at foot heads for conversations which it is proposed to have; in order to call the attention of G W to the several points. Most of them have no doubt been topics of communication with the War Department but the freedom & particularity of conversation will yield additional lights & lead perhaps to a correct system for the management of our Western Affairs in their various relations.
Objects

1.
The disposition of our Western Inhabits. towards the UStates & foreign powers.

2.
The disposition of the Indians in the same aspect.

3.
The disposition of the Spaniards in our Vicinity. Their strength in numbers & fortifications.

4
The best expedients for correcting or controuling hostile propensities in any or all these quarters including.

5
The best defensive disposition of the Western army; embracing the Country of Tenessee & the Northern & N Western Lakes and having an eye to œconomy & discipline.

6
The best mode (in the event of Rupture with Spain) of attacking the two floridas. The troops Artillery &c. requisite.

7
The best plan for supplying the Western army with provisions transportation forage &c.

8
The best arrangement of Command so as to unite facility of Communication with the sea board & the proper combination of all the parts under the General commanding the Western Army.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Parker, 7 August 1799
From: Parker, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Winchester [Virginia] August 7, 1799. “… I must Beg pardon for … urging a Remittance of money for the pay & Subsistence of the officers many of them are Really distressed for the want of It. I shall be obliged to you also to Inform me how they are to be paid for money advanced for postage of Letters Travelling expences and Stationary; the latter we are now supplied with by the Contractor. Expecting that the whole of the Cloathing woud be Immediately on I sent forward to the most distant Rendezvous too large a proportion of the Cloaths that did arrive so that at some of the Stations we are in want of Coats & Vests. I coud wish that a Supply of these articles may be sent on as soon as possable. I trust that we shall suc⟨ceed⟩ well in the Recruiting Busine⟨ss. We have⟩ now upwards at Two hundred ⟨recruits⟩ & are going on verry well.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Theodore Meminger, 8 August 1799
From: Meminger, Theodore
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, August 8, 1799. “… I beg leave to remark that the Company are in a ragged state many of them being destitute of Overalls of Linen & those of Clothes past repair. Blankets & Woolen Overalls I have not included in the return as it will be some time before they are wanted & would be an incumberance.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John J. U. Rivardi, 8 August 1799
From: Rivardi, John J. U.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Niagara [New York] August 8, 1799. Again requests extra pay for soldiers doing extra work. Reports that he has hired a boat “to remove the Garrison of Oswego.” States that “Several of our men are unwell.” Discusses the repair of Fort Niagara.


Title: Circular to the Commandants of Regiments, 9 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commandants of Regiments

Circular
New York Aug 9th 1799
Sir

Our political situation renders it very urgent that not a moment shall be lost in disciplining our troops as fast as they shall be raised. To this end it is essential that every officer shall personally exert himself to the utmost and that a very faulty practice which has occasionally prevailed in our armies as well as others shall be carefully avoided; namely Commanders of Regiments leaving too much to their Majors, these to the Adjutants and the Company Officers to their sergeants.
It is expected that each commandant of a Regiment will himself industriously exercise his Regiment in the manual & evolutions; that each Major will do the like in his batalion and the company officers in their several companies. These last must charge themselves with the detail of instructing their men from the beginning—using their non commissioned Officers as auxiliaries not as their representatives or substitutes; and the field officers must carefully superintend the company Officers in relation to this detail.
This course will have the double advantage of ensuring the rapid improvement of the soldiers and of giving every Officer practical expertness within his sphere; without which an army is nothing but a mass of disorderly elements.
In the visits which I expect to make to the several corps I hope for the gratification of observing the proficiency of officers and men that the instruction contained in this letter has been carefully & zealously executed.
With great consideration &c


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 10 August 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philad. 10 Augt. 1799

I am fully satisfied my dear Hamilton from what you say, that you had no intention to insinuate in the general order, any thing that could affect my character in the eye of the public or army, and I am no longer uneasy.
Upon the other point, let me assure you, that the military rule of correspondence, which I have departed from, in some instances, as relative to General Wilkinson, did not take place without substantial cause. I am in possession of my justification were it necessary to stir the subject. There may be however, particular cases, independent of these, when I have erred through inattention. And who is it will not, with so much business to attend to as I have?
I recommended to you some time since to send to England for the officers manual in the field, or a series of military plans, representing the principal operations of a campaign. I now transmit you a copy, for which you will be pleased to return me a receipt.
The book has merit. But as Aristotles rules never produced a good tragedy, neither in my opinion will the best military book produce a great general. Both characters are the result of the energies of genius.
Your sincere & affec
James McHenry


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Parker, 11 August 1799
From: Parker, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Winchester [Virginia] August 11, 1799. “… Some of my officers are so distressed for money that I have been Obliged to procure a loan to enable them to go on with the Recruiting service. Their expences in continually Removing from post to post has entirely exhausted their Resources & I trust It will be Convenient at all events to send on at least their Subsistance & allowance for Recruiting.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, [11 August 1799]
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Mount Vernon, August 11, 1799. Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 12 August 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War Department August 12, 1799. “I transmit under cover to you for each of the Officers named in the enclosed list a Copy of the elements of fortification, and request that you would have the same forwarded to them respectively.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 13 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Sir
New York Aug. 13. 1799

It is now time to take measures for the establishment of the additional Regiments in Winter Quarters. It has been already determined to dispose of them in four bodies and the positions generally have been designated. These positions will of course be adhered to, unless alterations shall become expedient from considerations relative to the comparitive prices of rations at different places. It is necessary speedily to understand whether any deviations will result from this source which has been heretofore a subject of correspondence between us.
As to mode, I incline to that of Hutts. Every thing in our military establishment is too unsettled to justify the expence of permanent barracks and the hiring of quarters in Towns will be adverse to the health and discipline of the Troops and may lead to disorders unfriendly to harmony between the citizens and the soldiery. The experience of last war has proved that troops cannot be more comfortable in any way than in hutts; and these they can build themselves. Perhaps as those in question are quite raw it may be expedient, where they do not happen to have carpenters among themselves to indulge each Regiment with the aid of a few to be procured here; who may direct the mode of construction and lend a helping hand to the hutts of the officers.
The ground will be to be hired. The material for building must be found upon each spot. If you approve and as soon as I shall receive from you the information which is to guide as to the prices of rations, I will give direction to the respective Contractors to procure the ground with the cooperation, when it can conveniently be had, of the Agent for the War Department, and of the Commandant of a Regiment nearest to the intended site.
Any suggestions which you shall think fit to make with regard to the detail will receive careful attention.
Applications have been made to me to authorise the providing a waggon and four horses for the use of each Regiment. It is suggested that for transporting of fuel & straw and for a variety of current services many difficulties attend the continual depending on the Contractor, which would be obviated by a waggon attached to the Regiment. I am of opinion that the measure is right and would direct it to be put in execution but that it is my rule to enter into no new arrangement involving expence without previous recourse to you when there is no pressure of circumstances to require immediate decision.
With great respect
The Secy of War


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 13 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

My dear Sir
N. York Augt. 13th. 1799

Every day must prove more and more to every body that it is impossible to serve two masters. I cannot be a general and a Practicer of the law at the same time without doing injustice to this Government and myself. Hence I am anxious to disentangle myself more completely than I have yet done from forensic pursuits. But to be able to do this I must call to my succour all the emoluments which I have a right to claim. Hitherto I have had neither Quarters nor fuel nor servants. The two last I shall take measures for myself. But the former I have some scruples about, and wish an instruction concerning it from you, which may be addressed as well to General Pinckney as to myself. On this article too I have no doubt of my right to order the person acting as Quarter Master to provide Quarters for me and my suite. Every commanding general has this right, and situated as I am, in a time of no active operations, with the force under my command dispersed to various points, I have no doubt that the strictest propriety accords with my personal station being where it is, and that in this station it is in every view fit that I should have provided at public expence for myself and suite a house as quarters suited to my rank and command. The procuring of a better one than I now occupy would be Strictly justifiable but it is not my wish to do it.
How do you construe the 4th. Section of the Act of March 3d. 1797, respecting double rations, in reference to the Officers appointed under the act for augmenting the army? This Question has in cases foreign to the spirit of the provision come up from some of the Officers of the 12 additional regiments, and it will probably soon come up in others. It is important to the two major Generals as well as others and it ought to apply to them. Yet the law must not be strained but future provision made where the existing one is deficient.
You must not think me rapacious. I have not changed my character. But my Situation as commanding General exposes me to much additional expence in entertaining Officers occasionally in the City of N. York and citizens and foreigners who come to pay their respects to the commanding general and adding this consideration to the circumstance of a wife and 6 Children whose maintenance and education are to be taken care of.
Adieu
Secy. of War


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 13 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Sir
New York August 13th. 1799

I have considered the drafts of the proposed contracts sent me through Mr. O Hara, and have had some conversation with him concerning them. There are a few points some of which appear to me to require to be differently arranged, others to stand in need of explanation for the avoiding of Disputes.
1.   In the proposed contract for the supply of the Western army, it is put in the option of the Contractor to furnish either beef pork or Bacon; but it is not said to whom the option shall belong as between fresh and salt meat. In the contract proposed for Virginia &c. the instrument is wholly silent on this point. In this case, you are apprised that I should hold the option to rest with the public. But in the other, the Contractor would find colour to contend that a different construction is implied.
It is in my opinion proper that the right of election throughout should be reserved to the public and that, to avoid controversy, this should be declared, on the opposite principle, the contentment & health of the army are placed in the discretion of the Contractor which is inadmissible. Though there may be on the one side danger of oppression, as on the other of abuse; yet it is more reasonable that confidence should be reposed in the Agents of the Government than in the Contractors whose private interest may lead to an improper use of discretion; and that these should run the hazard of a diminution of profit rather than the public that of a derangement of the service.
Mr. O Hara accordingly consents that the option shall be reserved to the Government, provided the exercise of it be confined to the General or officer commanding an army or within a great military district to be regulated by general orders promulged a reasonable time before hand. This certainly is a proper modification of the thing.
2   It is submitted that whenever due Bills are issued, for parts of rations retained they be payable absolutely in money. Otherwise a double supply of particular articles may take place at certain periods; occasioning at times an intire deficiency at another times an excess. This plan will also have the advantage of simplicity, which is always conducive to exactness to good faith and to the satisfaction of those concerned.
3   The regulation for cases in which the dayly issues may not exceed 50 rations is conceived to be inexpedient. It serves to destroy that reciprocal check between the military officers and contractors which is requisite to the security of the Government—and implicates the former in duties not very congenial with the spirit of their stations. Without extra compensations the service would be disgusting to them, and if these are to be made they had better be given to the Contractors as an indemnification for procuring agents distinct from the military. General Wilkinson whom I have consulted is strongly of the same opinion.
3   The option as to the issuing of flour or bread ought likewise to be settled in the contract. Unless proportions are defined this option also ought to belong to the Government to be exercised through the Chief Military Officer. It is believed that it may be restricted to three days in the week leaving the choice for the rest of the time to the Contractor. A proportion of flour is very necessary as an ingredient in the soup of the Troops and for the purpose of dressing their hair.
4   Provision should be made for a deposit of Nine Months at Michilimacnac. The very remote situation of that place recommends this provision.
There is one point more upon which I shall offer to your consideration some thoughts. The small parts of the ration as they are called are rated so low in these contracts that it is clearly the interest of the Contractor never to furnish them but to pay the stipulated equivalent in money. This is a real evil. Candles and soap are at all times extremely necessary & Vinegar especially in Southern Climates is very important to health. The furnishing of the two first mentioned articles ought to be ensured by an adequate equivalent; and as to vinegar it seems to me that it ought not to be the subject of Contract at a fixed price. It should be among the articles to be provided by the Contractor upon Commission. The Troops will then have it when stationary; and in other cases it must be dispensed with.
It will deserve the attention of the Department of War, in the adjustment of subsistence money, to indemnify the Officers for the parts of Rations which are contingent, whenever they are not included in the contract price.
With very great respect   I have the honor to be   Sir   Yr. Obed ser
The Secy of War


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, 13 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth

New York, August 13, 1799. “Your several favours of the 10th. of June 12. and 29 of July have been received.… The course is for money and other supplies for the recruiting service to go immediately from the department of War upon application from me. As yet no regular military chest has been established nor have the proper organs of the Staff been appointed.… A more perfect organisation is indispensable. The Secretary of War has been and will continue to be urged on the subject. I presumed he had made an arrangement for your command similar to that which has provisionally obtained in this quarter.… You are right in your recollection that it was the joint idea at Philadelphia to require the Officers always to appear in public in their Uniforms. But it was referred to future regulation in a code which must be devised and to which I shall seriously devote my attention this Winter.… Difficulties arise from the separation of command … in cases in which there is something to be done affecting both districts. The Secy of War is the natural organ in these cases—but resort to him … must sometimes occasion delay. The mutual confidence which I am happy to know subsists between us must relieve the embarrassment and any agency which either may occasionally take in a matter that may concern the command of the other must be deemed as it must be intended the effect of a desire to aid each other.… On the subject of the Recruiting service.… Hitherto I have addressed myself directly to the Colonels … who are recruiting within your district.… The course has been conducive to dispatch though less agreeable to my ideas of regulation than to have resorted in the first instance to your agency.… If you think that the course begun ought, for the reasons which dictated, to be continued—I submit whether it may not be adviseable for you to drop a line to those officers.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Josias Carvel Hall, 14 August 1799
From: Hall, Josias Carvel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Havre de Grace [Maryland] August 14, 1799. “… The men begin to be urgent for their Pay. To some there is three months due. I had much rather the proper Officer was appointed to this Duty. It is not agreeable to me to tell an Officer, who perhaps can not well afford it, he must lose the Bounty advanced.… Our recruiting money is nearly expended. The Paymaster, of the money appropriated to that Purpose, has but $1070 in Hand. Some of the Officers who have not had Success have still some remaining; tho’ very little in the hands of any Individual; Others will require more in a few Days.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Willcocks, 14 August 1799
From: Willcocks, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Head Quarters, Broncks [New York], August 14, 1799. States that in the absence of Colonel William S. Smith he commands the regiment. Asks what procedures to use in filling out payrolls. States that the officers “complain heavily” of the delay in receiving their pay. Adds that the men, who are “next to a state of mutiny,” are stealing vegetables, and because of a lack of “platters or trenchers, bowls and dishes,” they either “eat their provisions like dogs, on the ground” or hire utensils. Complains that the regiment, though entitled to “three Marquis,” has only one. Believes that “some Arrangements are universally known to be so dilitory—erronious—or deficient, that the confidence of application is lost, in any other channel than ‘thro’ you.”


Title: Receipt from John C. Hummel, [15 August 1799]
From: Hummel, John C.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Trenton, August 15, 1799]

Recd. Trenton August 15th. 1799 of General Hamilton by the hands of Abraham Hunt One Hundred and Twenty Dollars in full for my Bay Horse Peacock—Warranted sound.
$120
John C. Hummel


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Willcocks, 15 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Willcocks, William

Sir
New York Aug 15. 1799

I have received your letter of yesterday as the actual commander of the 12th Regiment.
The delay of money for the troops is owing to the want of muster and pay rolls. It is well understood that the permanent forms cannot in the present state of the Regiment be exactly complied with. But it will be with reason expected at the public offices that they shall be approached as nearly as possible. This has not been done. I have personally explained to Lt. Smith Pay Master how it may be done. Any officer of a company may represent his Captain & the Regimental Pay Master by special order of the Commandant may act for those Companies which have no officers present. It is at least essential that the names as well as the numbers of officers and men should appear.
If the Officers are already discouraged by the difficulties they have experienced—it is an unlucky presage of what may be expected in relation to the far greater difficulties incident to their military career. It is hoped for their reputation that you have expressed yourself too strongly. As far as their complaints respect the delay of pay, it is to be ascribed to the want of proper documents from the Regiment. This observation is not intended as censure; for it is not doubted that the best intentions have existed and that any defect in this particular which may exist has arisen from misapprehension of what might and could be done. But circumstances like these ought to inspire a spirit of accommodation.
With regard to platters &c the public stores when they were called for by me were found empty, because it had not been the practice to furnish them. It is known to the Officers who served regimentally during our revolution war, that these articles were seldom supplied, and that various contrivances were made for substitutes. And I am told that the furnishing of such articles has been for a long time discontinued. When furnished, in the course of active operations they are very apt to be lost or destroyed and then they are of necessity dispensed with.
I mention these things to shew that these articles are not deemed indispensable and that a delay in obtaining them ought to be met with good humour. It has not been usual in our service to furnish Marquees to any officer of a grade below the commandant of a Regiment. This explains that point.
You will not I trust misconceive me. I am not displeased with your giving me the information which is contained in your letter. It is right I should know the discontents which prevail whether well or ill founded, proportionate or exaggerated. But it is also right and necessary that I should frankly disclose the impression I have of them.
I shall only add that it is essential to cultivate a spirit of accommodation and that it is expected that every officer will in his station do so as a duty of the first importance.
With great consideration & esteem   I am Sir Yr Obed ser
Major Wilcocks


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 16 August 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, August 16, 1799. On August 21, 1799, Hamilton wrote to McHenry: “Your letter of the 16 instant respecting Cloathing for the Western Army did not reach me till yesterday.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Wilkinson, 16 August 1799
From: Wilkinson, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir
N: York August 16th: 1799

I send you the only Letter Book I have with me—unfortunately the most material one has been left behind.
The inaccuracies of the copiest may be readily excused, but the frivolity & fallibility of Intellect, too current in my correspondence with the Minister, will require an exertion of your indulgence. My humiliation has been profound, my sufferings exquisite, whether justly or unjustly you can best determine; but the Issue is I flatter myself closed forever, & I now look forward to better & to brighter Days, content to forget the irritations, which have ensued the conflicts of principle & power.
I am sensible the perusal is hardly worth your time, yet you may, perhaps, pick out of my observations respecting Cox’s machinations, the dispositions of the Western People generally, & the defence of our Mississippi Possession in particular, some Ideas which may not again occur to me. Would you remark in the course of my communications to the Minister, any circumstance worthy explanation, you have only to note it to me.
I must express my regret for not being able to find the Letter wrote Mr. McHenry in Decr. or Jany: 97.8. in which while conjuring Him not to urge the presidential sanction to his Essay, for the government of the Troops, I add “in the mean time permit me to refer you to Col Hamilton, for his Opinion on the subject, as I consider Him the ablest military Judge of our Country; this opinion is not founded on any personal Intimacy with Col. H but is the result of informations on which I can rely.” This Letter was I believe marked private & therefore has not been copied into the Book, yet I made reference to it, in my Letter to the Minister of the 10th April last, wherein I observe “It is with singular pleasure I receive orders to address myself to Major General Hamilton; you possess strong testimony of my high respect for his Military Talents, and it will be my study to merit his confidence & his approbation.” I am ashamed to tresspass this detail on you, but anterior conversations held in the fullness of my Heart makes it necessary.
I send you also for your amusement, Loyds Campaigns, with Lindsays miscellany, containing his own & Tempelhoffes strictures on the Works of the first. Neither are exempt from Errors & prejudices, but I think much useful information may [be] culled from them. I am better this morning, under my antiphlogistic regimen, yet the sensorium continues deranged, tho not insensible of the report & the attachment due to you from
Your obliged & affectionate
Ja Wilkinson
Majr Genl Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William C. Bentley, 17 August 1799
From: Bentley, William C.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Richmond [Virginia] August 17, 1799. “Yours of the 10 Ultimo notifying the appointments of the Medical Staff and the Com: officers to fill vacancies within my Regiment was received in proper time. The manner in which the vacancies were filled was unexpected to me, as well as to those who received the appointments; They all excepted to have been the junior officers of the regiment, and that those who had been in service, would have been promoted. The arrangement of relative rank of my Regiment as reported by me on the 15th Ultimo, was made under that Idea, and yours of the 31st establishes the rank, agreeably to the report, and authorizes me to act upon it accordingly; which makes those two letters irreconcilable. I will be obliged to you to have a reference to them and if they appear to you in the same light, to reconcile the differences and transmit a compleat list, agreeably to the rank as now fixed.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Butler, 20 August 1799
From: Butler, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

South West Point, Tennessee, August 20, 1799. “Permit me to inform you, that Capn. Jonathan Taylor of my Regt. has been recruiting in the town of Lexington (State of Kentucky) for some time past, his last return dated the 26th July ulto. reported forty Six Recruits, all destitute of Cloathing, Capn. Taylor observes, that if he had a supply of Cloathing, he could soon compleat his company.… I have thought it my duty to State to you Capn. Taylor wants, not doubting but that you will give such orders as may be necessary, to enable Capn. Taylor to compleat his Compy.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Wilkins, Junior, 20 August 1799
From: Wilkins, John, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sir
Philadelphia 20th. August 1799

I expected when the law of March last was passed “for the better organizing of the Troops of the United States, & for other purposes” that the Quarter Master department would be immediatly arranged according to it, & that a Quarter Master Genl. would be appointed with high military rank; but I have been ordered to this place to take charge, for the present, of the Department. All that I have done, as yet, is to establish an office at this place, to examine & settle the accounts of the different persons employed, & to distribute stores to them to their different places of destination. It is now most certainly time, that the department was organized, & that Deputies were appointed for the different armies; and that its duties were distinctly separated, & reduced to system. Should I proceed in this organization, making the appointments of Deputies, together with Division & Brigade Quarter Masters, & establishing a system under my instruction, when soon after another head must be appointed to the department, who may dislike my appointments & the arrangement I have made and desire to change them, which would be the source of great confusion & embarrassment. The sooner therefore, a Quarter Master General is appointed under the law, the sooner will order & system be introduced into the Department.
I have had the appointment of Quarter master General for the Western army upwards of three years. The dispersed situation of the troops, the extent of country they embrace, the number of posts, the variety of transportation used, & to keep up the accounts for the disbursements of cash, & the expenditure of different stores, require constant attention & controul. Being ordered to remain here has occasioned considerable embarrassment in my accounts & abuses have been made, which from my remote situation I have not been able to correct.
The following order is pursued in the distribution of publick stores—Indian goods, Ordnance stores, Hospital stores & clothing are transported from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, from whence, they are distributed to the different post they are intended. Those destined for the Lakes, are sent up the Allegheny river to the mouth of French Creek & from thence to Le Boeuf, which is at the head of the navigation of French Creek; at both those posts there are excellent store houses, built on publick ground, & surrounded by good pickets. From Le Boeuf the stores are transported in waggons to Presq’Isle, & shipped from thence to the posts on the Lakes. At Presq’Isle there are good store houses & a saw mill belonging to the United states on publick ground. The Stores for the posts on the Ohio and Mississippi are ship’d at Pittsburgh for the places of their destination. The store keepers at the different posts, under the title of assistant Quarter Masters, are charged with all the stores sent to the post under their direction, together with all the Quarter Master stores purchased, & delivered them, & are to account for the same by regular orders & receipts.
The principal objects of disbursement of cash for the western army, are the purchase of Quarter Master stores & means of transport; Transportation; building & repairs to Forts & Barracks; building & repairs to their vessels on the Lakes & payment of their captains & crews; the captain & crews of two Gallies on the Mississippi; store keepers; &c. which when extended into detail occasion a great Variety & complication of accounts.
I have been particular respecting the Quarter Master department for the western army, to explain its situation, & the necessity of being with it. My services can be best rendered in that country, & my wish is to remain in the same situation I have been with respect to it. The law of March last states, “but the provisions of this act are not to affect the present Quarter Master General of the army of the United States, who in case a Quarter Master General is appointed by virtue of this act, is to act as Deputy Quarter Master Genl.” My services as Deputy will probably be required, where I am most capable of performing the duty, with the western army.
In the plan you propose “for providing & issuing the military supplies” in the part respecting the Purveyor, it directs his having three assistants, & that “the person who now resides at the seat of Government in Quality of Quarter Master General may perform the duty of first mentioned assistant.” When I was appointed Quarter Master Genl my sphere of Duty was confined to the western army, with which I still wish to serve. I have been long with it, & during the time, I hope, I have not been inattentive to acquire a knoledge of the Military & civil duties relative to the department of which I had the direction. Abstracted from every other consideration, which under the circumstances of this arrangement would be among the least, the compensation allowed to me would not enable me to reside at the seat of government.
I submit these observations to your candor & better judgement with pleasure.
I have the honour to be   Sir   with the greatest respect your obt. Sr
Jno. Wilkins Jr
The Honble Major Genl. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Wilkins, Junior, 20 August 1799
From: Wilkins, John, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, August 20, 1799. “… There ought to be a plan adopted such as you propose for the providing & issuing of Military supplies; or that the Quarter Master General & his deputies should procure the articles appertaining to their department; and that there should be a Commissary of Military stores, who should have the providing of all supplies relating to the Ordnance Department, & whose Deputies within the army should have the safe keeping & issuing of them, & have the direction of the Armourers & artillery artificers. This plan would have one advantage, that the Quarter Master General and the Commissary of Military stores, from their knowledge & experience, would be the best judges of the quality & kind of articles requisite to their respective Departments. I am afraid the supply of wood in the “Regulations” will be found too small. At Detroit a general order was issued in Septr. 1797 fixing the allowance of wood, which was much greater than that now proposed, yet below what had been allowed by the British & it was found little enough.…”


Title: Enclosure: [Balance Due on the American Iron Company’s Lands], [21 August 1799]
From:
To:

[New York, August 21, 1799]

To the Trustees of the American Iron Company Dr

To the last Installment in Lands in Crosbies Patent
£605,13. 5

Interest
4 April 1797 on
£605.13.5 is
1 Y.
4 M

56.10.7

do
20 Decr. 1798
do
1 Y.
8 M
16 D
72.10.10

do
7 June 1799
do

5 M
18 D
19.15.8

do
21 Aug 1799
do

2 M
14 d
 8.14.4

 157.11. 5

£763.4.10

is Dols 1808 10/100


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 21 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Sir
New York Aug 21. 1799

Your letter of the 16 instant respecting Cloathing for the Western army did not reach me till yesterday. It has been referred to General Wilkinson and no time will be lost in complying with its object.
I have maturely considered the proposition in your letter of the 17th for stationing three Regiments at Carlisle in Pensylvania and I am of opinion that the measure is not expedient.
Considering the difference in the price of the ration and how common it is for repairs of barracks to exceed the previous estimate of their amounts, and adding the difference in the expence of transportation to so remote a point, I am convinced that experience would prove th⟨at⟩ nothing is to be gained by sendi⟨ng⟩ the troops to Carlisle instead of kee⟨ping⟩ them in New Jersey.
In other respects New Jersey is far preferable. Besides being a situation more relative to our military point⟨s⟩ it is a country w⟨ell⟩ affected to the Government an⟨d⟩ in which the principles of the tro⟨ops⟩ will run no risk of being perverte⟨d.⟩ On the contrary though the boro⟨ugh⟩ of Carlisle may in this view be li⟨able⟩ to no objection the surrounding country contains a great mass of dissaffection and many individual⟨s⟩ who would be glad to tak⟨e⟩ pains to poison the minds ⟨of⟩ the soldiery. The station of Carlisle would be viewed as a stage to the Western Country and the going to that place would consequently be likely to injure the recruiting service. The remoteness of this station, by placing the troops at a greater distance from the eye and influence of the commanding General will of course be less favourable to their progress in discipline than if they are nearer to him. Indeed it is easy to foresee that at Carlisle they will be left very much to their own will, and will become a disorderly horde whereas in N Jersey I will be answerable for the contrary.
I conclude therefore that it is infinitely more adviseable to adhere in this particular to the plan of the Commander in Chief than to depart so widely from it.
I am now anxious to be authorised to take the preparatory measures for Winter Quarters.
With great respect   I have the honor to be   Sir   yr Obed ser
The Secy of War


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Aaron Ogden, 22 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Ogden, Aaron

Sir
New York Augt. 22d.1799

An early preparation for Winter Quarters will conduce to the comfortable accommodation of the Troops, and is the more necessary as sufficient Barracks no where exist in which they may be quartered in entire Corps; a circumstance extremely desirable.
It is therefore conceived that it may be found most eligible to hut the Troops during the ensuing Winter.
Some point in the vicinity of the Raritan in the State of New-Jersey has been thought of as a fit station for three Regiments, (the 10th. 11th. 12th.). I request that you will, without delay, cause a careful examination to be made in that Quarter whether a fit situation can be found for the purpose. It must of course have upon it Wood sufficient and proper for the construction of the huts and for fuel; a convenient and adequate supply of good Water; a healthful site and a plentiful surrounding Country are also indispensable requisites. It is most desirable to procure the ground upon hire, as it may never be wanted but for the special occasion, and it might not be easy afterwards to dispose of it. But if this should prove intirely impracticable, inquiry must be made as to the price for which it can be purchased.
Though the vicinity of the Raritan be mentioned, yet, if there be no fit position there, it must be sought for at some other point in the State of New Jersey; preferring a Station as nearly intermediate as maybe to Philadelphia and New York.
It being part of the Duty of the several Contractors to provide Quarters for the Troops you may as far as you think adviseable avail yourself of their aid.
But it is my desire that you will devote your personal attention to the subject; Nor is any time to be lost. When the necessary examination shall have been made you will report the result with all the particulars including the terms of hire or purchase to me for final Direction.

If I recollect rightly there are Barracks at Amboy. Will you make enquiry as to their present State, the number they will accommodate and the repairs they may require.
With great consideration   I am Sir   Yr. obedt. servant
A Hamilton
Col: Ogden


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Nathan Rice, 22 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Rice, Nathan

Sir
New York Aug 22. 1799

An early preparation for winter Quarters will conduce to the comfortable accommodation of the troops and is the more necessary as sufficient barracks no where exist in which they may be quartered in entire corps; a circumstance extremely desireable.
It is therefore conceived that it may be found most eligible to hut the troops during the ensuing winter.
The vicinity of Uxbridge in the state of Massachusettes has been thought of as a station for three Regiments (the 14th. 15 & 16). I request that you will without delay cause a careful examination to be made in that quarter whether a fit situation can be found for the purpose. It must of course have upon it wood sufficient and proper for the construction of the huts and for fuel—A convenient and adequate supply of good water—a healthful scite and a plentiful surrounding Country are also indispensable requisites.
It is most desireable to procure the ground upon hire, as it may never be wanted but for the special occasion and it might not be easy afterwards to dispose of it. But if this should prove intirely impracticable enquiry must then be made as to the price for which it can be purchased. Though Uxbridge is particularly mentioned, yet if there be no fit position in the neighbourhood of that place, it must [be] sought for somewhere else. But a preference is to be given to some position intermediate to Boston and New Port.
It being a part of the duty of the contractors for Massachusettes to provide quarters for the troops you will have recourse to their aid—and you will consult Jonathan Jackson Esquire Agent for the War Department upon the subject.
But it is my desire that you will devote your personal attention to the subject. Nor is any time to be lost. When the necessary examination shall have been made you will report the result with all the particulars including the terms of hire or purchase to me for final direction.
I begin to be anxious to know the progress which has been made in recruiting for your regiment.
With great consideration & esteem   I am Sir   Yr. Obed ser
Col. Rice


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Nathan Rice, 22 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Rice, Nathan

Sir
New York August 22 1799

I have just received a letter from the Secretary of war in which he informs me that the resignation of Lieutenant Samuel W. Church of your regiment is accepted. You will please to signify the same to Lieutenant Church, and inform me when he actually receives the notice.
With great consideration   I am &c. &c.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Nathan Rice, 22 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Rice, Nathan

Sir
New York Augt. 22. 99.

I have received a letter from Cn. Ashmun of your regiment in which he informs me that he has sent Samuel Woolcott, a deserter from the first regiment of Artillerists to the commanding officer of the district at Springfield. You will immediately send this deserter under the guard of a corporal and file of men to Major Tousarde at Rhode Island.
With great consideration


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Adlum, 23 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adlum, John

New York, August 23, 1799. “… I am not anxious that any part of your force should be stationed at Easton if you think it of importance to keep the whole united. It would however be a strong motive to the stationing of a small party at Easton if the recruiting service could be benefited by the measure. It is not convenient at present to reinforce your detachment, but as I am not apprehensive of an attack on your troops from the disaffected of ⟨the⟩ country, I should have no objection on that score to your sending a company to Easton, if on other accounts you should deem it advisable.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Richard Harison, 24 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Harison, Richard

Sir
New York August 24. 1799

Attempts are making in different parts of the country to procure the enlargement of soldiers on writs of Habeas Corpus issued by and returnable before state Judges. As this practice will probably involve serious consequences it becomes necessary for me to avail myself of the information of those officers of the United States who are particularly charged with the consideration of legal questions. I wish therefore for your deliberate opinion, distinguishing between Courts and individual judges, on the legality of this practice, and especially on the effect of a return to the writ that the person demanded had been duly enlisted by an officer of the United States in conformity with the laws, and with his instructions. You will also be pleased to consider whether upon such a return it is necessary to produce the person who is the object of the Habeas Corpus. The charge for this opinion you will make against the department of War.
With great considn &c. &c.
A Hamilton
Richard Harison Esqr


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 24 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York, August 24, 1799. “On the subject of Winter Quarters my attention will of course be confined to my own district. Doubtless attention is paying by others to the troops which will be stationed within General Pinckney’s district.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 24 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York, August 24, 1799. “I send you an extract from Col. Parker’s letter of the Fifteenth of this month. By this you will see the extremities to which the officers of his regiment are put from the want of money for recruiting purposes. I enclose likewise an extract from Major Rivardi’s letter of the twenty fifth of July. It would appear to be proper that the officers of the corps to which Major Rivardi belongs should be furnished with the enumerated articles, but not being acquainted with the arrangements which you may have made, I have declined taking any measure in the case.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 25 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

New York, August 25, 1799. States that the lack of a rule regarding “compensation to the members of Courts Martial and to persons acting as Judge Advocates” causes “some embarrassment.” Believes that an officer should be indemnified when “employed in objects or at places, not military posts, which oblige him to incur extra expence.” Requests “information in a particular case respecting the extra expences of recruiting officers.” Asks if “two Dollars per head” is considered “as the equivalent, or is there a further allowance & how adjusted?” Encloses one extract from Major John J. U. Rivardi’s letter of July 25 “which explains and corrects the information before given by him” and a second extract which describes how wood is procured at Fort Niagara. Inquires if there is a “standing regulation of the Qr Ms Departt. countenancing the allowance of five Dollars ⅌ Month to men permanently employed in any such service” and if “it is applicable to such a case.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John J. U. Rivardi, 26 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Rivardi, John J. U.

New York, August 26, 1799. Has ordered Major Adam Hoops and Captain James Stille to Fort Niagara to investigate Captain James Bruff’s charges against Rivardi. States that although most men had enlisted when “the allowance” of spirits “was but half a gill per day … Those who entered the Service whilst the act of Congress which allowes a gill pr. day was in force … have some colour to contend that the withholding from them of any part of that allowance would be a breach of contract.” States that he has “for some time considered as important to the United States to have a vessel in the lake.” Reports that “The Secretary of war has determined to postpone the appointment of Cadets to a future day.”


Title: Circular to the Commandants of Regiments, 27 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commandants of Regiments

Sir
New York Aug 27. 1799

In military service, it is essential that each individual should move within his proper sphere—according to a just gradation and to the relations which subsist between him and others. It is a consequence of this principle that a regular chain of communication should be preserved, and that in all matters relating to service each person should address himself for information or direction to his immediate superior and should not step beyond him to a higher authority. This observation, of course, excepts the case where an individual having received an injury from his immediate superior is disposed to such redress from the superior of both. But in other cases the principle ought to be rigidly observed.
It is not so in practice. I have received communications from Captains of companies which in propriety ought to have been addressed to the Commandants of their Regiments or of the districts within which they were stationed. And I know that communications have in some instances been made by particular Officers to the Secy of War which ought to have been addressed to me.
These things are not regular and must be avoided. The good of the service and the dignity of every officer from the highest to the lowest require that they should not prevail.

The Officers & persons attached to the army who are charged with the expenditure of money and with the providing or issuing of supplies will properly correspond with the Department of War on those subjects. But every other officer ought to address himself to his immediate military chief and the Chiefs of corps or distinct commands must make their communications immediately to me except in the cases in which particular regulations direct otherwise.
To apply the rule—The officers of your Regiment within the district of your command must not go beyond you with their verbal or written communications. You must addr⟨ess⟩ yours to me except 1 Returns and applications respecting ordnance, arm⟨y⟩ accoutrements ammunition and other military stores, cloathing articles of Quarter Master’s supply, Hospital Stores including Medicines which for the present must be add⟨ressed⟩ to Ebenezer Stevens Esquire Agent for the War ⟨Department⟩ in New York (the proper officers in respect to ⟨these objects⟩ not being yet appointed); 2 Monthly and ⟨other⟩ returns respecting the numbers & State of corps & detach⟨ments,⟩ including inspection and recruiting Returns wh⟨ich⟩ must be addressed to Brigadier General North Adjutant General; 3 Muster and Pay Rolls to Caleb Swan Esquire Pay Master General at the seat of Government. These last had best be forwarded by the respective Pay Masters of Regiments and detachments where any exist. The Pay Master General has been advised to confine his communications to Pay Masters & to such others as have received public money for which they are accountable directly to the War Department.
It is expected that other officers will shortly be appointed and annexed to Head Quarters, to whom the objects under the first and third head will properly belong. This when it takes place will be announced in General Orders.
You will take care to make these instructions known within the limits of your Command.
With great consideration


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 28 August 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Sir
New York Aug 28 1799

It would appear from the representations of G Wilkinson that the number of officers of the four old Regiments who have reported themselves to me pursuant to your notification bear no comparison to the number actually absent. The case seems to require some more decisive measure.
I submit whether it will not be expedient for you to signify in the public papers throughout the States that all Officers of the first second third and fourth Regiments of Infantry and of the first Regiment of Artillery who are absent from their corps from whatever cause are as soon as possible to report themselves to the Secy of War liable to render an account for any unnecessary delay and that all such of them who do not so report themselves within 4 months from the date of the notification will be presumed to have resigned their commissions.
The measure is a strong one but the protracted absence of these officers is intolerable. A remedy is essential & to be effectual it must be strong.
With great respect &
Js McHenry Esq