Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Jay, [29 September 1779]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jay, John

[West Point, September 29, 1779]
Dr. Sir
I am honored with your letter of the 18th which I received with all the pleasure that is inspired by a sincere respect and esteem. I must beg leave to repeat my assurances to you, that whenever I have occasion to trouble you in the epistolary way, unless where the subject should require a return, I shall be sorry, you should think yourself bound by the rules of ceremony; and I shall always ascribe your silence to your occapations, which I am sensible in your present capacity must engross your time and attention.
I feel the force of your scruples respecting a certain Gentleman; and while you entertain the doubts you intimate, it certainly would not be reconcileable to a regard for the public good to promote his appointment. My recommendation, besides motives of particular policy, was founded upon an opinion that he would really be useful in the station. Though I think his character defective and unamiable in many respects I have no suspicion of his fidelity and attachment to the common cause—indeed I am persuaded these may be relied upon; and as I had a high idea of his ability industry and proficiency in the knowledge of men and business, I was induced on principle as well as policy to wish to see him a member of the board. The only subject of hestitation in my mind was his vanity, and consequently an extreme partiality to his own opinions, an impatience of control and a fondness for dominion. I should be apprehensive, if he could not rule the board, he would perplex it, but as he has the art of conciliating those with whom he is connected and is clear sighted in discerning and persuing his interest, I thought these would overcome the dispositions I have mentioned and teach him the necessity of cultivating harmony with his colleagues.
I believe you mistook me on the subject of Neuville. What I said of him only went to an addition of pay and subsistence to his rank, which I think is fully adequate to his pretensions. This I am happy to find he has since obtained; and all that he ought to wish besides is employment, which he will have the moment circumstances permit. The New Minister has interested himself in behalf of this Gentleman.
I am much indebted to you for the part you have been good enough to take in Fleury’s affair; he is certainly very deserving. Your objection to placing him near the person of an American Minister is I believe solid, considering the temper of our government and people. Indeed I should be loth to trust him with any of our present ministers. He is a fellow of too much intrigue and penetration, to be placed near any but a man who would know how to make use of these talents, and at the same time to guard well against their operation in developing his own secrets and designs. By some features of their character which I have observed The Gentlemen now abroad appear to have too great facility and too little circumspection in these points. I recommended him on the supposition of your going to France (an event I still hope to see, nor can I think your objection from the envy of a cabal ought to have any weight. A man must hazard something to serve either his country or himself; and the most he can do is to endeavour to estimate justly his own integrity and abilities). In this event, Fleury might have been made useful, by making it his interest to be faithful, which I believe was not impossible. If I am not mistaken, it is no unusual policy for ministers to employ in subordinate capacities the natives of those countries where they reside. I did not advert to the probable jealousy peculiar to the nature of our governments.
I shall not be sorry if Colombe fails in his application. My sentiments correspond with yours on the operation of brevets; but we began wrong and the transition must be gradual. Here Sir permit me to give you a key to the letters I sometimes write for foreigners. They serve to prevent the General being teazed with solicitations, who must either disoblige by peremptory refusals or do too much by even yielding in appearance; from the weight which any thing he could say might have with Congress. Your official situation necessarily exposes you to the fire of their attacks and these letters will only add to your trouble that of reading them; at worst they will only be a small tax upon your politeness which your stock will easily afford. A general answer of civility will pay the debt. You will easily distinguish where more than ceremony is meant.
We have a report here that a vessel is arrived at some port to the Eastward which parted with the Count D’Estaing in the latitude of Bermudas, and informs that he took Capt Garner the commander of the vessel on board. Gardner it seems was with him as a Pilot when he was on the Coast before. The period to which the intelligence refers is the 10th. instant; and from the time that has elapsed, it is suspected that he is gone to Halifax, though if he was bound here the winds have been very contrary.
We have another report through a pretty direct Channel of the arrival of a vessel to the Eastward, in 56 days from Amsterdam, the Captain of which brings advice that a packet had just arrived there from London, with official dispatches informing that the allied fleet had blockaded the British in Torbay and that a French army had actually made a descent upon England. The Captain it is said affirms to have seen the British Kings proclamation, ordering all the stock and effects to be removed back into the Country the extent of fifteen miles from the Coast.
With real respect & attachment   I am Your most Obed   servant
Alex HamiltonSepr. 29th.
I this moment find the foregoing account in a Boston paper; but with some difference. The English fleet is blockaded in Torbay with fifty four sail of the line; but the descent is not yet made, though momently expected with fifty thousand men. The Proclamation has been issued.
There is paragraph taken from the English papers, which mentions the intended appointment of commissioners to settle the troubles in America and agree upon the terms of a pacification; subject however to the final ratification of Parliament and to have power previously to make a truce for twelve years.


Title: George Washington to Major General William Alexander, Lord Stirling, 29 September 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (née William Alexander)

[West Point] September 29, 1779. States that Brigadier General Anthony Wayne will take up quarters at Haverstraw Forge. Asks Stirling to support Wayne if necessary.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 29 September 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

West Point, September 29, 1779. States that Lord Stirling has been ordered to cooperate with Wayne if necessary. Sends general instructions.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, [30 September 1779]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wayne, Anthony

[West Point, September 30, 1779.] Orders Wayne to “detach the light infantry of the Carolina Brigade to join their respective Regiments.”


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 30 September 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

[West Point] September 30, 1779. Has referred Wayne’s request for two light field pieces to Brigadier General Henry Knox. Describes how the boats under Wayne’s jurisdiction should be distributed.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Duane, 1 October 1779
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Duane, James

[West Point] Oct 1. 1779
I am much obliged to you, my dear Sir, for your two letters of the 16th & 23rd. In haste I snatch up my pen by an express going off to the Governor, to give you the news as it runs. The most important & best authenticated is, that Count D’Estaing was arrived on the coast of Georgia. The tale runs thus. We are in possession of a Charlestown paper of the 6th of September which mentions that the Viscount de Fontanges had arrived at that place, sent by the Count to announce his approach. Mr Mitchel who transmits the paper, adds—that by the express which brought it—Mr Gerard had received dispatches from the Count informing him of his intention to attack the enemy in Georgia on the 9th—that in consequence of this intelligence Mr Gerard had postponed his voyage a few days to be the bearer of the event. This, I hope, puts a period to the danger of the Southern States, for which I could not help having strong apprehensions, notwithstanding the presumption drawn from the enemies past folly against their pursuing any plan favorable to their interest. I acknowledge the force of the argument, but I was afraid they might for once blunder upon the right way. The departure of Cornwallis on the 25th with the Grenadiers, Light Infantry & one British regiment had increased my horrors on this subject. The nature of this Corps pointed to a temporary service for some important Coup de Main. Charlestown presented itself as the only object. They would hardly seperate the flower of their troops for any remote & permanent station. They are continuing their embarkation. The accounts we have of the particular corps carry them to between five and six thousand. I send you a Boston paper of the 23rd containing some interesting European advices.
Your most respectful & affec Sert
Alex Hamilton
PS. The General is happy in the hopes you give him of a speedy visit from Genl Schuyler & yourself, & orders me to present his respects to both. The family join in every sentiment of perfect esteem.


Title: George Washington to George Clinton, 1 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

[West Point] October 1, 1779. Discusses amount of assistance needed from New York “in case of a cooperation with our allies.” Sends news of Comte d’Estaing’s arrival off coast of Georgia.


Title: Certificate by George Washington, 1 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

West Point, October 1, 1779. Commends the conduct and service of Major Noirmont.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 2 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

West Point, October 2, 1779. Instructs Wayne to guard West Point.


Title: George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 3 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

[West Point] October 3, 1779. Instructs Sullivan to join the main Army for possible “cooperation” with D’Estaing. Sends news of arrival of D’Estaing off coast of Georgia.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 3 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

[West Point] October 3, 1779. Orders Wayne to cooperate with Brigadier General Du Portail in reconnoitering Stony Point.


Title: George Washington to George Clinton, 4 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

West Point, October 4, 1779. States that, as D’Estaing is soon expected, complete cooperation of states is needed. Discusses number of men and amount of supplies that will be needed from New York.


Title: George Washington to Comte d’Estaing, 4 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Estaing, Charles-Hector, comte d’

West Point, October 4, 1779. Describes British forces and position. Suggests an attack on either New York or Rhode Island. Explains difficulties involved in a joint undertaking. Describes navigation of Hell Gate.


Title: George Washington to William Livingston, 4 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

West Point, October 4, 1779. Asks Livingston to instruct William Van Drill, a pilot, to join Major Henry Lee at Monmouth to assist D’Estaing.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the Marine Committee, 6 October 1779
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Marine Committee

Head Quarters WestPoint October 6th. 1779
Sir,
Mr. Dobbs and Mr. Redfield are engaged to go on Board the French fleet as pilots. The former is well acquainted with the passage of the Hook and the latter with the navigation of the North River. The General has received information, that the fleet is to call in at the Delaware, has referred them to the Marine Committee, whom he requests to give them the necessary directions for going on board in the most expeditious manner. He was just setting out with Mr. Gerard on a visit to the works when these persons arrived at Head Quarters; and to avoid detaining them, left orders with me to dispatch them with a letter to you. He has also sent into the Jerseys to engage other pilots who reside there and has directed them to be hastened on to the Committee.
I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedient and most humble serv
Alex Hamilton   Aide De Camp


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Major General Nathanael Greene, [7 October 1779]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Greene, Nathanael

[West Point, October 7, 1779]
Dr. General.
It is determined that General Du Portail and myself should go to Count D Estaing. We proceed to New Windsor this afternoon and set out from thence before light tomorrow. Four horses will be necessary to accomodate us, as I am dismounted & General Du Portail is loth to wear out his own horses in the journey. Will you be so good as to send me an order on the person at New Windsor who provides horses for you—
I am Yr Most hum serv
Alex Hamilton   Aide De Camp
Hd. Qrs. Octr. 7th 177[9]
General Greene Q M G


Title: George Washington to Comte d’Estaing, 7 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Estaing, Charles-Hector, comte d’

West Point, October 7, 1779. Reports that he is sending Brigadier General Du Portail and Hamilton to “explain to you fully my ideas of the proposed cooperation.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Major Henry Lee, 9 October 1779
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lee, Henry

[Near Philadelphia, October 9, 1779. On October 15, 1779, Lee wrote to Hamilton: “I have your letters of the 9th & 13th Octobr.” Letter of October 9 not found.]


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail and Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 10 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Du Portail, Louis Le Bèque,Hamilton, Alexander

Head Quarters [West Point] Octob the 10. 1779
Gentn.
The only material intelligence which I have obtained from New York or respecting the Enemy since your departure, is contained in the inclosed account, which I received yesterday from Captain Monroe. This in your communications with His Excellency Count D’Estaing, you will be pleased to shew him.
As we shall have occasion for a great many boats, in case a cooperation between the Count & us takes place, I request that you will inform yourselves of the number, which His Excellency has fit for transporting Troops.

In order to cut off the Enemy’s force on Staten Island, I would suggest that it will be necessary for the Count, as soon as possible after his entry at the Hook, to have measures taken for destroying all their boats on the Staten Island shore. And besides, it will be material that a part of his Ships should be stationed along the Island, to prevent Boats from being sent from New York to withdraw them; and their being stationed in this manner appears to me, the more essential, as the Enemy would annoy them from land batteries, if they were to continue in the narrows.
I am Gentn. With great regard & respect Yr Most Obed Servant
Go: Washington
Brigadr Genl Du Portail & Lt Colo. Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Major Henry Lee, 13 October 1779
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lee, Henry

[Lewes, Delaware, October 13, 1779. On October 15, 1779, Lee wrote to Hamilton: “I have your letters of the 9th & 13th Octobr.” Letter of October 13 not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Major Henry Lee, 15 October 1779
From: Lee, Henry
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Manolopen [New Jersey] Octr. 15. 1779
Dear Sir.
I have your letters of the 9th & 13th Octobr.
The Pilots have orders one half to proceed to Lewis Town, there to wait on you.

The route I can not yet determine, as I am not sufficiently acquainted. They will be sent the shortest & every assistance given them to expedite their arrival.
Should you leave the Capes before they get there, it would be necessary to dispatch a courier to cross at Dover & pursue the Jersey route with directions for them; yourself or courier must meet them. My intelligence corresponds exactly with the information obtained from Capt Munroe & transmitted you from H Quarters.
Rhode island was not evacuated when my last accounts arrived but will be on the Count’s appearance. Transports are ready there for the purpose.
Sandy hook, the Narrows & Governor’[s] Island are strongly fortified. Be assured of my execution of your wishes & that I am your friend & servt.
Henry Lee   Maj


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail and Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 18 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Du Portail, Louis Le Bèque,Hamilton, Alexander

Head Quarters, West-point18th Octbr. 1779.
Gentn.

I have been favored with Colonel Hamilton’s letter, mentioning your arrival early on the 11th at Philadelphia; and your being about to set off for Lewis town the morning on which it was written.
I have attentively considered the object to which you more particularly refer, and am now to authorize you, (provided the Count will not determine on a co-operation to the full extent of my instructions) to ingage the whole force described in my letter to him, comprehending the Continental troops and militia, in such an enterprise against the enemy’s shipping, as the Count and you may agree to undertake. In a word, I will aid him, in every plan of operations against the enemy at New-York, or Rhode Island, in the most effectual manner that our strength and resources will admit. He has nothing more to do, therefore, than to propose his own plan, if time will not admit him to accede to ours; weighing thoroughly the consequences of expence and disappointment.
Inclosed is some intelligence received from Elizabethtown since your departure. You will observe the preparations of the enemy for throwing every possible obstruction in the Counts passage.
A chain of alarm ships are stationed in the Sound, to communicate the first approach of the Counts fleet to the garrison at Rhode Island. This they can propagate in a few minutes by signal guns. In a letter from General Gates of the 13th instant he advises me of the arrival of the fleet which some time ago sailed from New-york. It amounts to 56 sail, and appeared to be only in a set of ballast. This was confirmed by one of the vessels which fell into our hands for a few hours. The opinion is, that it is designed to take off the garrison.
General Gates makes the marine force at New-port one fifty, and a thirty two gun frigate. The refugee and wood fleet, about 37 sail mostly armed, at the head of which is the restoration, late the Oliver Cromwell of 22 guns. One frigate is also taken notice of in the fleet from New-york.
Should the operations against New-York, in either case be undertaken, it will be of the utmost consequence to block up the garrison at Rhode Island. You will consider the propriety of suggesting to the Count the detatching of a superior sea force for this purpose, previous to his approaching the Hook. For should the measure be deferred till his arrival there, it may not then be possible to prevent their junction with the army at New-York as the notice can be so very suddenly transmitted by means of the signals which they have established.
Every proper attention has been given to preparing the necessary number of fascines, and such other materials as may be requisite in this quarter. Fascines, gabions &c are also held in readiness at Providence in case of an operation against New-Port. I had thought of the fire ships, and have taken order in the matter. I do not however chose to go to the great expence they must run us into, till something is decided with his Excellency Count D’Estaing; but every thing relative shall be provided, so as to occasion no delay when such matters become necessary.
I am Gentn.   Your most obt. Servt.
(duplicate)
Brigadr: Genl. du Portail & Lt. Col. Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel John Mitchell, 19 October 1779
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Mitchell, John

[Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, October 19, 1779. On October 23, 1779, Mitchell wrote to Hamilton: “Yours of the 19th. from Egg Harbour came to hand at half past two.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Holker, 21 October 1779
From: Holker, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Lewes [Delaware,] October 21, 1779. “… I begin to suppose the Count will not be here so soon, I am affraid he must have suffered in some storm to the Southward; I hope & more Sincerely wish it is not the Case & that he will still appear [in] time enough to execute some plan of utility to the Common Cause.…”


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail and Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 21 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Du Portail, Louis Le Bèque,Hamilton, Alexander

West point October the 21. 1779
Gentn.

In my Letters of the 10th & 18th I transmitted all the intelligence I had obtained, respecting the Enemy from the time of your departure to those two periods; and by the present conveyance, I inclose you an Extract of a Letter from Major General Gates of the 15th. By this you will perceive he was fully persuaded, that the Enemy were preparing to evacuate Rhode Island and he expected from his advices, they would do it on Monday or Tuesday last. Whether the event has taken place or not as yet, is a matter I cannot determine, having received no information since upon the subject; but admitting it has not, there is no room to doubt that they have all things in a condition to do it, on the shortest notice—whenever they shall think the exigency of their affairs require it. It is also equally certain, that they continue to carry on their Fortifications for the defence of New York with the utmost industry and perseverance, and appear to be providing for the most obstinate resistance. Indeed as their reduction would be attended with the most alarming and fatal consequences to their Nation, Nothing else can be reasonably expected. The moment I hear the Troops have left Rhode Island, I will advise you. The Garrisons of Verplank & Stony points still remain; but from the concurring accounts of Deserters, the Heavy baggage and Stores, except about Eighteen or Twenty Rounds for each Cannon, are embarked, and all matters are putting in train for an Evacuation, in case events make it necessary. Deserters add, as a circumstance of confirmation, that Sir Henry Clinton was up at the posts about Eight days ago, and ⟨that⟩ from that time they have totally ⟨declined⟩ carrying on any works.
Having given you the substance of the Intelligence received since my last, I am led, from the vast magnitude of the object which carried you from Head Quarters and the very interesting consequences it may involve, all of which I am persuaded will occur to your consideration, to remark that the Count’s entering New York Bay with his fleet, must be the basis and groundwork of any co-operation that can be undertaken by us—either for the reduction of the Enemy’s whole force, or the destruction of their shipping only. Every thing will absolutely depend upon it in either case; as without it and a free & open communication up & down the Rivers and in the sound, which cannot be effected & maintained in any other way, we could not possibly undertake any operations on Long Island, as our supplies of provisions & Stores could only be obtained by water. This point I am certain would have your due consideration, but it appearing to me—the Hinge—the One thing—upon which all others must rest, I could not forbear mentioning it. The circumstance of the Season now, the expenditure of Wood and the necessity of supplying it &c. will of course be fully attended to according to their importance, and I have only to add, from a desire of preventing a misconception by either side—if any Cooperation is agreed on—that the terms and conditions may be explicitly understood. And whether it shall extend to an attempt to reduce the Enemy’s whole force—or only to the destruction of their shipping—your engagements will provide for the continuance of the Count’s fleet to secure our retreat and the removal of our Stores from Long & York Island, if unhappily it should be found on experiment that neither is practicable & we should be obliged to abandon the Enterprize.
I am Gentn. with great regard & respect,   Yr most Obed servt
Go: Washington
Genl Du Portail & Col Hamilton
P.S. ¼ after 3 PM
Three deserters have just come in who left Verplank’s point last night. They all corroborate the accounts, by a detail of circumstances, of the preparations to evacuate both that & Stony point. I have no doubt that things will at least be held in readiness.

Go: Washington

After dispatching the above, I received a Letter from Major General Heath of which the following is a Copy.
“I now have the pleasure to acquaint your Excellency that the Enemy have left both points having burnt & destroyed their Works”
“Mandevilles Oct 21. 1779 4 OClock PM”

½ after 5. PM


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Major Henry Lee, 22 October 1779
From: Lee, Henry
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Monmouth [New Jersey] Octr. 22d. 79
My dear Sir

I received your two letrs announcing your object route & wishes. I sent to you at Lewis-town two pilots—one of them Captain Johnston from whom you may know more than from any other, as he was particularly active.
The enemy’s strength at the hook consists in two 64, the Europa & Russell—the Raisonable, Renown Roebuck & Romulus.
Besides these they have a few frigates & some armed Schooners. They have sunk ten hulks in the outer channel & have more ready to be sunk some of those sunk have got afloat & reached shore.
They have also two fire ships. My latest accounts from New York, mention that all was attention & labor among the troops. Works are erecting on both sides the narrows & on Governor’s island.

Head quarters in Long-island— Evacuation of Rhode island not yet taken place.
A vessel got in on the 16th from Georgia; since whose arrival, the two 64 & the Renown have fallen down to N York.
The troops have embarked from the Hook & gone to the City.
I construe these movements as indicatory of the Count’s withdraw from the Coast. Do write me whenever you may hear certainly from the fleet.
You will regularly be informed of what passes here.
I am dear sir   Your affy.
Henry Lee jun


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel John Mitchell, 22 October 1779
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Mitchell, John

[On the New Jersey coast, October 22, 1779. On October 23, 1779, Mitchell wrote to Hamilton: “yours of the 22d Inst … came to hand at three oClock this afternoon.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Colonel John Mitchell, 23 October 1779
From: Mitchell, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philada. 23d October 1779
Sir

Your favor of the 18th Instant from Lewis Town, came duly to hand & in consequence of your request, Express’s have been Stationed at proper Distances on the Road between this and Lewis Town.
Yours of the 19th. from Egg Harbour came to hand at half past two & yours of the 22d Inst from Col. Wadsworth came to hand at three oClock this afternoon.
I shall only observe in answer to your last Note wch. came unsealed, that you have met with no delays from me, since your arrival in this City from His Excellencys Head Quarters nor shall any delays or Neglects be given you by the Departmt. that I can prevent.

Your Letter to the President of Congress is delivered. ⟨I⟩ have shewn him yours to me. Congress is now siting but I shall waite till they rise in order that his Dispatches may go with this conveyance—three Express’s sett out with this to atend any orders you may have to dispatch. If you find more Necessary you shall have them. I shall recal the Stationed Express’s from this to Lewis. If you meet with Mr. Snyder who had the charge of His Excellencys first dispatches for the Count D’Estang, and think it proper to take them from him, it will save a considerable expence in which can please to let me know the day you dismiss him, I mentioned this to you before you left this City.
I had Letters from His Excellency Yesterday but none for you or General Portail. This day Letters came from Charles Town, which mention that all the British Forces in Carolina & Georgia had got to Savannah, where they were Invested by the Count D’Estang & the American Forces he had carried his aproches within four Hundred yards of their Works, & expected they wou’d Surender in two or three days—the Experiment Taken & several other Ships & their Naval Force distroy’d. But I expect the President will give you a more particular Account—those accounts are by Private Letters of good Authority. Mr. Laurens was my Informant.
I have sent you ⅌ the Express’s, Mr. Truman, Kirkof, & Mooney, four Horses the best I can procure in so short a time one of them is a Horse you left here. It is with great difficulty Horses can be procured sufficient to do the Publick business.
The president of Congress informs me ⟨he⟩ can not write at present; the Accounts from the Southward are as late as the 4th. Instant on wch. day the Counts Battereys were to open.
The Cloth for your Coat &c shall be got, made & sent you.
I am with esteem & Complimts. to Genl. Portail   Sir   Your most Obedt humb st.
Jno. Mitchell   D.Q.M.G.

A Letter from His Excellency for you & Genl. Portail was sent to Lewis Town on the 19th. Inst., but supose it will be return’d, if so, no time shall be lost in sending it.
Col. Alexander Hamilton


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail and Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 25 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Du Portail, Louis Le Bèque,Hamilton, Alexander

Head Quarters West-point25th Octbr. 1779
Gentlemen

I have just now received a letter from Col. Hamilton, mentioning your having changed your position at Lewis Town, for that of little Egg harbour, and that you would write me more fully on your arrival at the furnace.
In my last I informed you that the enemy had evacuated both their posts at Kings-ferry, since which no alteration has taken place, that has come to my knowlege. Things at Rhode Island remain in the same situation, at least, I have received no accounts either confirming or contradicting my former intelligence.
I am Gentln. your most   obt. & hble servt:
Go: Washington

    Genl. du Portail
    }

    &

    Lt. Col. Hamilton


Title: Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail and Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 26 October 1779
From: Du Portail, Louis Le Bèque,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Great Egg HarborLanding [New Jersey] Octr. 26: 1779
Sir

We are honored with two letters from Your Excellency of the 10th. and 21st to the contents of which we beg leave to assure you of our strictest attention. That of the 18th. is not yet come to hand, it is not improbable it has gone round by Lewis Town, which has occasioned the delay.
Col Hamilton wrote to your Excellency from Philadelphia acquainting you with our arrival there and our intention to proceed to Lewis Town and Cape Henlopen, and from Great Egg Harbour communicating our progress since and our determination to establish ourselves at Bat-Stove Furnace. We have since fixed on this place about forty four miles from the extremity of Cape May (eigh⟨teen⟩ miles short of the Furnace which we found to be more remote than had been represented) and as far as we are able to learn from 100 to 110 miles of[f] Sandy Hook, about fifty from Philadelphia. Your Excellency will easily perceive the reasons of our choosing this station. It did not appear to us from our inquiries in Philadelphia to ⟨be⟩ a point well ascertained that the fleet would stop at the Delaware; and the time which had elapsed made it the more possible, if the Count should be determined to prosecute any further operations on the continent that he would not lose time by a procedure of this sort; but might content himself with send⟨ing⟩ some transports under escort of a few frigates to receive the provisions for the fleet and proceed himself directly on to the Hook. On this supposition our position at Lewis Town was intirely ineligible—the distance at which we were from the city as well as from the Hook, the delays that would consequently attend our intelligences from every quarter, the difficulty and impossibility some times of traversing the bay, made our first situation inconvenient in every respect, in the event of the Fleet’s proceeding immediately to the Hook. These considerations induced us to cross the Delaware and take the position at which we now are, where or in the vicinity, we propose to remain till the arrival of the Count, till intelligence from him decides the inutility of a longer stay or ’till we receive your Excellency’s orders of recall. We have now a better relation to the different points in which we are interested and have taken the necessary precautions to gain the earliest notice of whatever happens. We have stationed expresses at the pitch of the Cape and have established a regular communication with Major Lee and with the city. If the fleet should appear off the Delaware we can be there in twelve hours after its first appearance, and if at the hook in less than four days, provided Major Lee is punctual in conveying the intelligence & the expresses from either side in bringing it.
By recent information from Philadelphia (though not quite so distinct and accurate as we could wish) we find that so late as the fourth of this month the Count was yet to open his batteries against the enemy at Savannah. The time that will probably intervene between this and their final reduction—the reembarkation of the Count’s troops—the dispositions for sailing—and his arrival on this coast may we fear exhaust the season too much to permit the cooperation to which our mission relates. We do not however despair; for if the Count has been fully successful to the Southward, and should shortly arrive which may be the case, the enterprise may possibly still go on.
In a letter from Major Lee of the 22d. he informs us that a vessel from Georgia arrived on the 16th; since which the two sixty fours and the renown which were at the Hook had fallen down towards New York and the troops at the hook had embarked and gone to the city. At first sight this account alarmed us and made us apprehensive that the enemy had received some favourable advices from the Southward which put them out of danger & superseded the necessity of continuing their preparations for defence. But on further reflexion we think it more probable that this is only a change of disposition and that finding on closer examination they would be unable to defend the Hook they had determined to relinquish the attempt. This seems the more likely as Major Lee mentions that a part of the hulks sunk in the channel had gotten afloat and drifted ashore. To this experience of the difficulty of obstructing the channel may perhaps be attributed the change we suppose. And we are confirmed in this conj⟨ecture⟩ by the evacuation of the two posts at Kings ferry, which appears by your Excellency’s letter to have taken place on the 21st, five days after the supposed arrival of the vessel from Georgia—a proof that they had not received information of any decisive good fortune on their side or ill-fortune on ours; and that they persisted in their defensive plans. We are persuaded too that their exultation would have given wings to any good news they might have received, and that it would have reached us before this. Were the season less advanced we should regret this change of disposition, because we believe the attempt to defend the entrance of the Hook would have been fruitless and it might have thrown a part of their ships and of their troops into our hands in the first instance which could not fail to facilitate the successive operations. But at this late period it may rather be an advantage; to force the passage might have required land operations against the Hook, which would lose time and expose the fleet to the hazard of winds which would have rendered its situation critical. Now the fleet may probably enter the bay on its first approach and be in security, and the whole operation will be brought to a point and may demand less time for its accomplishment.
As a large number of fascines ready for use appears to us essential to any operations that may be undertaken we presume your Excellency has been preparing and will continue to prepare as many as possible; we beg leave to suggest the utility of having at the same time a sufficient number of gabions and sand bags; of the former Col Gouvion if your Excellency thinks proper may be charged with the construc⟨tion⟩; the latter may be made under the care of the Qr. Master at Philadelphia. Several thousands may be necessary. The usual dimensions are fifteen or eighteen inches long and twelve wide. If not withstanding the advices from M Lee any thing by land is to be attempted against the hook, these will be peculiarly useful on such a flat sandy spot; and indeed it would be impracticable to construct batteries in any reasonable time without them.
We have the honor to be   &c


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail and Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 30 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Du Portail, Louis Le Bèque,Hamilton, Alexander

West point October the 30th. 1779
Gentn.

I inclose you an Extract of a Letter of the 26th which General Greene has just received from Mr Bowen. D.Q.M. Genl, dated in New port, announcing the evacuation of Rhode Island by the Enemy on Monday night last. The intelligence is not to be doubted, altho by some means or another it has happened, that I have not received any advices from Genl Gates upon the subject, or a Letter from him since One of the 15th of which I transmitted you a Copy on the 21st.
By a private Letter which Mr Laurens the late president was so obliging as to write me on the 24th, he gave me the intelligence you will find in the Inclosure No. 2, which is most principally for your own satisfaction.
I have the Honor to be   with great regard   Gentn   Your Most Obed Ser
Go: Washington

Genl Portail &
}

Colo Hamilton


Title: Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail and Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 1 November 1779
From: Du Portail, Louis Le Bèque,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[Great Egg Harbor Landing, New Jersey, November 1, 1779. On November 8, Brigadier General Du Portail and Hamilton wrote to Washington: “We hope before this you will have received our two letters of the 26th of October and 1st instant.” Letter of November 1 not found.]


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail and Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 2 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Du Portail, Louis Le Bèque,Hamilton, Alexander

Head Quarters West point 2d. Novemr 1779
Gentlemen

Since mine of yesterday I have received another letter from my confidential correspondent in New York dated the 29th: ulto. He informs me that the 57th: Regt: Rawdons Corps and the Artillery mentioned in his last, were to sail on that day for Hallifax, and with them all the heavy ships of War except the Europa. The Daphne Frigate, with Sir George Collier and Colo. Stewart on board, was to sail for England the same day. He says the pilots reported that it was now difficult to bring a Vessel into the Hook on account of the Hulks sunk there (By this it would seem that some of them still remained upon the Shoals). He says the transports mentioned in his last, as taking in Water and Ballast, only carried it down to the Ships at the Hook. The Rainbow of 40 guns had arrived from Hallifax. He informs me of no other circumstances that materially relate to affairs at New York.
He says a packet arrived from England on the 23d. October. The accounts brought by her seemed to alarm the tories very much. It was reported that the Ardent of 64 Guns had been taken and the English fleet chased into Portsmouth by the combined Fleet, which remained off that place several days. He mentions these matters as current reports, and adds, that a fleet of Victuallers were to sail from Cork the latter end of Septemr. and another of Store Ships and Merchantmen from Spithead about the same time.
I am with great Regard   Gentlemen   Your most obt. Servt.

Go: Washington

The capture of the Ardent is confirmed by a New York paper of the 20th. ulto.

Genl. du portail   andColo. Hamilton.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Mitchell, 10 November 1779
From: Mitchell, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, November 10, 1779. Reports defeat of French and American forces in attack on Savannah on October 9.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail and Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 11 November 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Du Portail, Louis Le Bèque,Hamilton, Alexander

Head Qrs. West point Nov 11th 1779
Gentn.

Being absent from Head Qrs. on a visit to the several Outposts of the Army, when your favor of the 2d Instant arrived—and not returning till last night—it was not in my power to answer it before.
I am precisely in the predicament you are with respect to the Count, his intentions or ultimate operations. I have not heard a single syllable about either since your departure, except what was transmitted in my Letter of the 30th Ulto, a similar account to which you will have seen in the public prints. From this circumstance and the lateness of the season, I do not expect myself, that he will arrive in this Quarter, or if he should, that the Enterprize which was proposed could now be prosecuted. It is too late to begin it. However, as I received my advices from Congress, of the Count’s intention to cooperate, and considered myself as bound by their directions to prepare for it, I have not thought myself at liberty to desist from my preparations or to fix upon a day when they should cease. I have written to them to day upon the subject, stating the incertainty I am under with respect to His Excellency’s coming, the great expence which must necessarily attend the continuing of our measures for a co-operation, and the difficulties supposing it undertaken, from the advanced season, and requested their earliest decision as to the part I am to pursue. I have also requested the favor of General Schuyler, who is at Congress, to transmit you the Result of their deliberations upon the occasion as soon as they are ended, by which you will be pleased to govern yourselves, either as to your returning or remaining, as their decision may point. In the mean time, you will withhold all my dispatches to the Count—even if he should arrive—till you receive their Answer, and endeavour to recover such as may have been lodged by you or Others along the Coast towards the Capes of Delaware. I have written to Major Lee, with respect to the Letters in his hands. When you have received the determination of Congress—if it is against a Cooperation, it will be necessary for you to recall the pilots (except such a number as may be thought material for general purposes in case of the Count’s arrival for the security of his Fleet) and such as were employed here or immediately in consequence of any of my Letters, you will desire to send in their accounts.
I have the Honor   to be   with great respect & regard   Gentn.   Yr most Obed st.
Go. Washington.
Genl. Duportail & Colo. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Gordon, 15 November 1779
From: Gordon, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Jamaica Plain [Massachusetts] Nov 15. 1779.
Sir

In my last of Sepr. 23. I mentioned my having sent to my informer; have received an answer from him wherein he writes “As to the subject of your letter (for which I have now an opportunity to return my thanks) what was said was very confidential, & influenced by nothing but an anxious regard & attachment to our public cause. To affect the character of any one from a malignant principle is unbecoming the title of a gentleman; nor do I know when I have been induced to make any unfavourable representation from personal prejudice. Your sense & delicacy will point out the propriety of prudence in an affair of this nature.”
Should you be inclined to pursue the matter further, will be at the trouble of transcribing all that hath passed between us & of sending it to Congress, with direction to my correspondent to mention the name of my informer (who is known to several of the deligates) should Congress conclude upon examining into the affair.
I am Sir Your most obedient Servant
William Gordon


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Brigadier General William Irvine, [1 December 1779]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Irvine, William

[Morristown, New Jersey, December 1, 1779]

Mr. Hamilton presents his Complements to General Irvin, wishes to converse with him on a particular subject, for which purpose he will call at his lodgings tomorrow Morning at Nine oClock
December 1


Title: George Washington to Colonel Elisha Sheldon, 4 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Sheldon, Elisha

[Morristown, New Jersey] December 4, 1779. States that $10,000 have been issued to Sheldon. Authorizes Sheldon to enlist infantrymen whose terms of service are near expiration.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 7 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Morristown [New Jersey] December 7, 1779. Sends information concerning British fleet; enemy attempts to depreciate American currency; and probable future movements of British army.


Title: George Washington to Juan de Miralles, 7 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Miralles, Juan de

Morristown [New Jersey] December 7, 1779. Agrees with proposals made by De Miralles.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Henry Knox, 8 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

Morristown [New Jersey] December 8, 1779. Instructs Knox to send artillery pieces and men to man them to the Southern Department.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Gordon, [10 December 1779]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Gordon, William

[Morristown, New Jersey, December 10, 1779]
Sir,

As your letter of the 23d of September offered nothing conclusive I delayed acknowledging it ’till I should receive the result of your pretended application to your informer. This is contained in your last of the 15th. of November which arrived while I was absent from Head Quarters. The unravelment of the plot in the ridiculous farce you have been acting proves, as I at first suspected, that you are yourself the author of the calumny; such I consider you and such I shall represent you. The representation I am sure will find credit with all who know me, and the notorious byass of your disposition to duplicity and slander will give it sanction with all who are acquainted with you. I shall use the less ceremony as I am well informed you have established a character which in the opinion of every man of sense has forfeited all title to the delicacy of treatment usually attached to your function. I only lament that respect to myself obliges me to confine the expression of my contempt to words.
The feint you make of involving Congress in a business little worthy of their attention, I regard as a mere trick to elude my demands for a discovery which you are unable to make. And as I have no hope of bringing this affair to a more satisfactory issue, I now put an end to the correspondence on my part. I shall only add a repetition of what I before said that I have no objection to any part of my conduct being canvassed before any tribunal whatever.
I am &c
Alex Hamilton
Decr. 10th. 79


Title: George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 11 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Morristown [New Jersey] December 11, 1779. Warns of a probable British undertaking involving the Convention troops.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens, 12 December 1779
From: Laurens, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia 12th December 1779.
My dear Hamilton,

Upon my arrival here yesterday evening I communicated the intelligence received from General Wayne to the President of Congress and the french minister. The latter surprised me greatly by informing me that only one 74 gun ship of the Count de Grasses division and the fier Rodrigue had arrived at Chesapeak. I am at a loss how to account for the absence of the rest. They have not been within the reach of a superior enemys force; no storm has happen’d within our knowledge to drive them to any considerable distance from the Coast; it cannot rationally be supposed that the Count has received countermanding orders and that a capital Ship of the line together with a very valuable warlike Merchantman is to be sacrificed. Be the case as it may, all hopes of passing our reinforcement for the Southern department by sea are out of the question. The North Carolina Brigade after profiting by the navigation of the Delaware as far as it wd serve them, marched to the Head of Elk, thence they proceed by water across the Chesapeak and up to Petersburg, where they are to be overtaken by their waggons and pursue the rest of their way by the Middle Road to C. Town. This is the route marked by the board of War and a Committee of Congress appoint’d to confer with them, and I believe it was recommended by Doctor Burke o⟨ne⟩ of the N. Carolina Delegates lately from the Country; it is intended that the Virginians shd. pursue the same as far as Petersburg where they are to take an upper Road. In this route we do not avail ourselves of Albermarle Sound; the going up the River to Petersburg will certainly be tedious & 400 miles land march is to be executed from ⟨thence.⟩ I communicated these objections to Mr. Matthewes and proposed the route which the General pointed out, but the poverty of the Country in provision & the means of transporting the baggage of the troops, he said, wd outweigh the advantages of the water carriage & direct Road. I am by no means satisfied with the present arrangement when I reflect how much more rapidly the british may convey their reinforcements, but all the inquiries I have made hitherto have produced nothing favorable to our plan; indeed in the present unguarded state of the Chesapeak the British might render the passage even of that ineligible.
Mr. Serle a member of Congress who arrived in town last night from the neighborhood of Major Leighs post, asserts that no transports were at the hook on wednesday. Whether the british operations are delayed by false rumours of Count de Grasses Division, or whether they have heard as we have here that Count d’Estaing was still on the coast the 20th. of November, I cannot decide, but one wd be inclined to think that they are disconcerted either by false intelligence or a total defect of it. I entreat you my dear friend, to transmit me the earliest and most accurate relation that can be obtained of the british movements, and enlighten me with your observations upon them. Present my Respects and Love to our excellent General and the family; may you enjoy all the pleasure moral and physical which you promise yourself in winter quarters; and be as happy as you deserve.
Yours ever
John Laurens

Tell the Doctor I shall commit his darling to the press this morning.
Colonel Hamilton


Title: George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 12 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

Morristown [New Jersey] December 12, 1779. Reports that Major General Benedict Arnold’s court-martial is to be held at Morristown on December 20, 1779.


Title: George Washington to George Clinton, 13 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Morristown [New Jersey] December 13, 1779. Asks Clinton to investigate case of Major William Hudson Ballard.


Title: George Washington to Colonel James Wood, 14 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wood, James

Morristown [New Jersey] December 14, 1779. Orders Wood to replace Colonel Theodorick Bland as officer in charge of Convention troops.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail, 15 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Du Portail, Louis Le Bèque

Morristown [New Jersey] December 15, 1779. Asks Du Portail to assist Major General Nathanael Greene in drawing up a report on the defense of the present Army encampment.


Title: George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 15 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

Morristown [New Jersey] December 15, 1779. Asks Greene to assist Brigadier General Du Portail in drawing up a report on the defenses needed to withstand an attack on the winter camp.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 15 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Morristown [New Jersey] December 15, 1779. Reiterates need for food for the Army. States that news of the sailing of British fleet was premature.


Title: George Washington to John Sullivan, [15 December 1779]
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

[Morristown, New Jersey, December 15, 1779.] Assures Sullivan of friendship and esteem. Thanks Sullivan for news concerning an intrigue against Washington.


Title: George Washington to the Governors of the Middle States, 16 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Governors of the Middle States

Morristown [New Jersey] December 16, 1779. Appeals to the states for food.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens, 18 December 1779
From: Laurens, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Mr Mitchel’s office Philadelphia18th Decem 1779.
My dear Hamilton.

On my arrival in town I was informed by the president, that Congress had suspended the business of appointing a Secretary to their Minister plenipotentiary at Versailles until my return, in hopes that I might still be prevailed upon to accept the office. I replied that I thought my letter upon the subject sufficiently explicit and assured him of my sincere desire to be excused from serving in that capacity at the present juncture of our affairs. He urged the unanimity of the choice with respect to me, the difficulty of uniting the suffrages of all parties in case of a new nomination, and the advantages of this union. Several Delegates of Congress declared to me the embarrassment of Congress since I had declined. One in particular suggested to me his apprehension of interest being made for a late delegate of N. York, who is candidate for the office, and to whom the world in general allows greater credit for his abilities than his integrity, and said he was determined to oppose him with all his influence. When I quitted town the 16th. these matters crowded into my mind. I fell into a train of serious Reflexion and self examination; endeavored to investigate whether I had acted consonantly to the χαλου χαι αγαθου, and fulfilled the duties of a good citizen in this transaction; in fine, I agitated the grand question whether a citizen has a right to decline any office to which his countrymen appoint him, upon what that right is founded, and whether it existed in my case. After undergoing the severest conflict that ever I experienced—sometimes reproaching sometimes justifying myself—pursuing my journey or turning retrograde—as the arguments on one side or the other appeared to prevail—I determined that I had been deficient in the duties of a good citizen. I returned to Philadelphia, communicated my sentiments to ⟨the⟩ president and two other mem⟨bers and⟩ declared to them, that I thought it incumbent on me in the first place to recommend a person equally qualified in point of integrity—and much better in point of ability—that if unhappily they could not agree upon Col. Hamilton and that I was absolutely necessary to exclude a dangerous person or to prevent pernicious delays, I shd. think it my duty to obey the orders of Congress. The persons now in nomination are Col. Hamilton, Mr. Lovell, Mr. G. Morris, Major Stewart. I am sorry that you are not better known to Congress; great stress is laid upon the probity and patriotism of the person to be employed in this commission. I have given my testimony of you in this and the other equally essential points.
I am sorry to inform you that the No Carolina brigade had not quitted Elk the 16th. having been detained by the ice.
I am sorry to write you just as I am on the wing. Be so good as to thank Tilghman for his letter; inform him from Mr. Mitchell that his habiliments are making. My Love as usual.
Adieu.
John Laurens


Title: George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 20 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

Morristown [New Jersey] December 20, 1779. Instructs Greene to assist the clothier in forwarding clothing.


Title: George Washington to William Livingston, 21 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

Morristown [New Jersey] December 21, 1779. States reasons that make it probable that British will attack Army’s winter quarters. Asks Livingston for support if this should happen.


Title: George Washington to William Livingston, 21 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

Morristown [New Jersey] December 21, 1779. States probability of an attack on the Army by the British. Asks Livingston to form a plan by which militia can be called into action on short notice.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Royal Flint, 23 December 1779
From: Flint, Royal
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Morristown [New Jersey] December 23, 1779. States that earlier report on same day is too optimistic, but nevertheless hopes to obtain “fat cattle sufficient for our subsistence several weeks.”


Title: George Washington to Colonel Charles Armand, 23 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Armand, Charles

Morristown [New Jersey] December 23, 1779. Instructs Armand to proceed to Monmouth to contact Major Henry Lee.


Title: George Washington to the Board of War, 23 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

Morristown [New Jersey] December 23, 1779. Forwards Colonel Armand’s request for horses and supplies.


Title: George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 23 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

Morristown [New Jersey] December 23, 1779. Asks that Colonel John Mitchell be allowed to come to Camp to testify in Major General Benedict Arnold’s behalf.


Title: George Washington to Colonel Charles Armand, 28 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Armand, Charles

Morristown [New Jersey] December 28, 1779. Refuses to recommend promotion that Armand requests as it will cause discontent among equally qualified officers.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 28 December 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

Morristown [New Jersey] December 28, 1779. States that, since the second British fleet has sailed, Wayne is to return his men to their respective regiments.


Title: Introductory Note: To ———, [December–March 1779–1780]
From:
To:

Generations of H scholars have not been able either to date this letter or to determine its addressee with any certainty. The date has been variously given as 1779 and 1780 without naming a particular month. In the present instance the date assigned has been based on three factors: First, in the next to last paragraph, H writes that he can be reached through James Montague at the post office in Morristown. This may well have been a fictitious name used by H so that he could conceal his own identity and still pick up any letters from his correspondent. Second, H was at Morristown from December 1, 1779, to June 9, 1780. Although H was at Morristown at other times during the Revolution, he was not there at any other time when this letter might have been written. Third, some of H’s remarks in this letter indicate that it was written before March 18, 1780, when Congress voted to contract the currency at a ratio of 20 to 1 (JCCJournals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789 (Washington, 1904–1937)., XVI, 216–17, 262–67). For example, at one point H writes: “A permanent reduction of the quantity of circulating cash will alone gradually effect it [i.e., a reduction in prices].” It is unlikely that H could have written such a sentence after Congress had voted for a contraction of the currency.
The addressee of this letter has presented as many problems as the date. The possible addressees include Robert Morris, John Sullivan, and Philip Schuyler. To each of these names, however, there are certain important objections.
Robert Morris is given as the addressee by J. C. Hamilton (JCHWJohn C. Hamilton, ed., The Works of Alexander Hamilton (New York, 1851)., I, 116), Lodge (HCLWHenry Cabot Lodge, The Works of Alexander Hamilton (New York, 1904)., I, 319), and Broadus Mitchell (Mitchell, HamiltonBroadus Mitchell, Alexander Hamilton, Youth to Maturity, 1755–1788 (New York, 1957)., I, 190). In support of this conclusion is the fact that the letter is concerned exclusively with financial matters, and Morris was clearly the new nation’s leading financier. In addition, at one point in the letter, H states that Congress should appoint a minister of finance and that he would “be very happy to hear that Congress have said, ‘Thou art the man.’” This statement is known to accord with H’s views on this subject (see H to James Duane, September 3, 1780). There is, however, one major objection to Morris as the addressee of this letter. In the second paragraph of his letter, H states that he is addressing it “to a member of that body in whose power alone it is by well-digested system to extricate us from our embarrassments.” If by “that body” H is referring to the Continental Congress, Morris is eliminated as the addressee, for he left Congress on November 1, 1778, and had no official contact with that body until February 20, 1781, when he was named Superintendent of Finance. On the other hand, if by “that body” H meant a body of influential and wealthy citizens, Morris’s name can be restored to the list of possible addressees.
In recent years some scholars have concluded that this letter was addressed to John Sullivan. This idea was first advanced by Nathan Schachner (Alexander Hamilton, [New York, 1946], 97–98, 444). Schachner’s view has been accepted by Joseph Charles (“The Origins of the American Party System,” William and Mary Quarterly, 3d. ser., XII [April, 1955], 242) and by E. P. Panagopoulos (“Hamilton’s Pay Book Notes,” American Historical Review, LXII [January, 1957], 321). The evidence that Sullivan was the addressee is found in a correspondence between Sullivan and Washington. On January 29, 1781, Sullivan wrote a letter to Washington in which he discussed the nation’s finances: “I wish your Excellency would be so oblidging … as to give me yr opinion with respect to Colo. Hamilton as a Financier” (ALS, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress). On February 4, 1781, Washington replied to Sullivan: “How far Colo. Hamilton, of whom you ask my opinion as a financier, has turned his thoughts to that particular study I am unable to ansr. because I never entered upon a discussion on this point with him; but this I can venture to advance from a thorough knowledge of him, that there are few men to be found, of his age, who has a more general knowledge than he possesses, and none whose Soul is more firmly engaged in the cause, or who exceeds him in probity and Sterling virtue” (ADfS, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress). Then, on March 6, 1781, Sullivan wrote to Washington: “I am happy to find your Excellency Entertains the Same Sentiments of the virtues and abilities of Colo. Hamilton, as I have ever done myself. After I wrote your Excellency I found The Eyes of Congress Turned on Robert Morris, of this City as Financier. I did not therefore nominate Colo. Hamilton as I foresaw that it would be but a vain attempt” (ALS, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress).
The Sullivan-Washington correspondence is, however, far from conclusive, and there are several cogent reasons why this letter may not have been addressed to Sullivan: First, Sullivan had no reputation as a financier and was not known for his interest in financial matters. Second, it seems altogether unlikely that H would write that he thought Sullivan should be minister of finance. Third, Sullivan was not in Congress while H was in Morristown, for Sullivan was not elected to Congress until June 27, 1780, and he did not begin to attend Congress until September 11, 1780.
John C. Miller (Alexander Hamilton, Portrait in Paradox [New York, 1959], 52) maintains that this letter was probably addressed to Philip Schuyler, H’s future father-in-law. In supporting this conclusion, Miller points out that Schuyler was in Congress when H was in Morristown, that he was interested in financial policy, and that he introduced into Congress measures dealing with financial matters. It is difficult to question the plausibility of this explanation; however, there is no documentary evidence to support such a conclusion.

Lucius Wilmerding, Jr., in a letter dated January 16, 1962, has suggested the following two other possibilities concerning the addressee of this letter. In the first place, it is possible that the letter was a draft that H retained. Second, James Duane might be considered a possible recipient on the ground that he was the first known person to whom H wrote in detail on finances and fiscal policy (H to Duane, September 3, 1780 [PAH, II, 400-18]). Mr. Wilmerding writes: "As chairman of the treasury prior to the reorganization of that department in the summer of 1779, Duane might at least expect to be mentioned for the post of minister of finance, and Hamilton, in recommending the establishment of such an office, may have thought it only polite to say, Thou art the Man."
In addition, Mr. Wilmerding has written concerning the date of this letter: "...there is one pierce of evidence not noticed in your [introductory] note that would appear to point, like everything else, towards December 1779. In arguing for a tax in kind [PAH, II, 243], Hamilton does not mention the act of February 25, 1780 [JCCJournals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789 (Washington, 1904–1937)., XVI, 196-201], founded on the resolve of December 17, 1779 [JCCJournals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789 (Washington, 1904–1937)., XV, 1391], which quoted a requisition in kind to the several states. In his later letter to Duane [PAH, II, 412], he says that, by that act, Congress probably intended a tax in kind but their intention had not been answered."