Title: Candidates for Army Appointments from Massachusetts, [9–28 December 1798]
From: Hamilton, Alexander,Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth,Washington, George
To:

[Philadelphia, December 9–28, 1798]

Subalterns

9
James ChurchSpringfield24 years

Shepherd
}
sprightly active—good stature

S Lyman

StubbinsCapt
}
good abilities & character now Ensign of Militia

judgment & military kno

respectable family

Ensign1

Sykes—Col.

14
Joseph H DwightBelcher Town

Shepherd
}
General Mattoon recommends fully active smart young man right age

Lyman

Lt 1

Sykes—has been Adjutant of Milia & would do honor as Captain

10
John Page JunrSalem24 years
Goodhue—Young man of good character
Lt1

Abbott
}
respectable family well qualified—son of respectable father thinks his abilities & principles qualify him

Cushing

InquireMcPherson
Pearson engaging manners

Thatcher—J Tredwell—spirited has been on the wrong side but now appears has good zeal

Ensign

11
Charles HuntWatertown19 years
Wm. Hunt
Ensign1

G Hull—
possesses the requisites of an officer education & habits favourable

18
John RudbergPortlandMayne50 years
Fosdyck—fair reputation & acquainted with duties of soldier

P Wadsworth—no doubt of his entire ability for Lt—has been in German & British service Musician
wont do

22
Jonathan Nicholsnative of Bostonhas resided lately at Newark

Boudinot
}
manly good conduct will do honor to the appt. good character warmly attached & otherwise well qualified

Cummings

1 - 2

30
John WheelwrightBoston28 yearsHonorable
Knox active & robust

Elliot—Merchant good Cadet

J C Jones
}
fair reputation good abilities & connections

H Jackson

1

35
Seth Smith JunNorton (40) yrsasks for Majority
Lt of Artillery

Leonard—senator—has been Capt Lt of Artillery activity & good character

38
William Swan22 years
Knox health activity industry & integrity information
LieutNo 1

Lincoln—every thing we want information acquisition to service Young Gentleman

45
Abijah HarringtonLexington
Brooks would make an excellent officer writes badly
2

49
Caleb AspinwallRutland34 years
P. Wadsworth—Lt. of Artillery now has been in that Corps from 20 years old likely spirited & noble person and ability all the essentials of good subaltern

54
William LeverittBoston25
Otis Lieutenancy of Artillery would in his opinion do credit to the appointment
1 - 2

63
John G Shindle
Letter a little bombastic has studied a military life &c

67
William A BarronCambrige
B Waterhouse recommends him strongly Mathematical & Philos know
1 Inquire

72
Ward EatonHaveril
Peabody—son of a respectable man who was an Officer in the army—clever young man & worthy of a Lieutenancy
Inquire

31
Daniel HastingsNew Town24 years
G Hull—strong general turn good family has had a good private education good personal & constitution
1

83
Nathaniel SoleyCharlestown
G Hull Young Gent of Talents & merit well fitted for subaltern
1

D Jackson—recommends him for Captaincy

Brooks—from information is satisfied he will sustain a Con with hon

84
    ShepherdPittston
Hallowel integrity & honor fit naturalized Englishman

85
Moses M BatesSpringfield22 years
Ensign in Marines

S Lyman—
}
good education & sprightly honest & honorable & capacity competent for

D Foster S

1

86
Thomas DurantNew town22 years
G Hull—officer of Militia faithful intelligent will make a valuable officer, suitable age
Ensign1 perhapsLt

Brooks confirms but thinks his age most suitable to Ensign

88
James D WheatonMaine
Knox recommends for Lt
1

89
Willard TalesMaine
Knox Ensign
1

90
David TalesMaine
Knox Ensign
1

91
Jacob UlmerMaine

KnoxLt
}
Lt or Ensign

1

92
James AustinBoston Qr

Clarke
}
sobriety morals & good Character fit for Lt.

Winslow

95
Marshall Spring Weston 22 years
Selectmen good character reputable family & well esteemed would prove active & faithful
1 - 2

Knox—from every appearance would make an excell Lt

96
Thomas HealdConcord

Wm. Jones
}
integrity & possesses qualifications of Officer & Gentleman

to

G Brook

who is silent
liberal education & well looking

97
Jeremiah HillBoston
his own letter was Lt. in the last War such Commission as he may merit

99
Daniel BellBostonwrites good hand
Bells letter to Knox who is silent

Thomas Dawes
}
ingenious draftsman & otherwise suitable

J Pierce

Greenleaf Grandfather

100
Charles CutlerBoston
his letter well

Simon Elliot & others
{
virtues talents & patriotism

education &c would do honor

1

103
Duncan IngrahamTertiusGreen Vale farmPoughkeepsie25 yearshis letter good
Letter to G Knox who is silent

Judge Dawes—his wifes relative thinks him remarkably amiable & accomplished qualified as Secretary
Inquire

transmitted by G Knox without supporting it

107
Rufus ChildsStirbridge
N Rice education pretty good & he thinks a clever man asks Captaincy but he supposes would accept Lieu
1 - 2

108
Alpheus Chenyditto
Rice—has had a College education & would make a good Lieut
1

109
  LathropCohasset
Rice son of Col Lathrop tolerable education & decent young man
perhaps Ensign

110
John PrattCohasset
Rice

117
  Fay
Wm. Latham just taken his degree at College

118
Ambrose KeithWarren

William Higgins
Otis retracts his Recommendation

Franklin TinkhamWiscasset
O Wood recommends

Knox barely transmits

134
Samuel P FayvConcord21½ years old

KnoxJacksonElliotPres Willar
}
healthy active industrious enterprising good morals character education talents genius & good acquirements

1

138
James GardnerBoston26 years
his own letter well enoug
1

Knox
}
good character & probably abilities for Lt

Jackson

Elliot

141
Thomas W HooperNewbury Port
Jackson Supervisor College education studied law but went into trade—unfortunate in Trade & marriage Aide De Camp to Titcomb for several years

145
Nathaniel KidderBelfast
Lieutenant

Honeywell good militia Officer perhaps personal knowlege sufficient
2

146
Joseph LeeCustine perhaps
Honeywell—now Lt & Adjutant a young man of good talents active Officer great military genius
1

146
Warren HallCustine perhaps
Honeywell he will make a good officer
2

Capt

2
Benjamin Larkin
now Lt in Boston Artilleryrecommends himself—badly

26
John Burbeck
Knox—ought to be Capt of Artillery & employed in an elaboratory excellent Officer

64
Boston

19
Samuel Treat
Knox—would be a valuable Capt of Artillery—but would accept a Capt of Infantry—in which the public would find its account
1 -

66
Boston44 - 50

7
John SpoonerNew Bedfork28 years

E PopeColl
}
now Adjutant of Militia active & of military turn

integrity firmness & ability

Parson West
}
Letter will accept a Captaincy & raise a Company

refers to L L Morris

1 - 2

Naval Contractor great natural abilities

13
Ebenezer Kent
Knox—services last war, conduct since & standing in society qualify him for a Company
1 -

Jackson—served in his regiment with first Reputation as a Gentleman & soldier

16
Samuel JordanBiddefordMaine
Thatcher (now Major of Militia) well qualified as officer—good stature & military turn
1 - 2

17
Phineas AshmemBlandford
Writes a good hand—well enough worded—now Aide De Camp to Major General
1 - 2

Sedgwick Worthy man & well qualified to command a Company

21
John PynchonSalem

GoodhueSewallBartley
}
fine natural talents & good education—

was Ensign in the army 86

has been Adjutant of Militia

lately unfortunate in business

Capt or Lt1

23
John RoulstoneBoston
his own letter indifferent

Bradley
}
now Capt of Militia & fit—Major—confirm

Lt Col Mill

2 - 3

Knox—Jackson Lincoln—as far as they know faithful Officer & friend to his Country

Otis enterprise industry & good moral C

25
Samuel MackayWilliams town was British  Officer 33 yearshas served from Ensign to Aide
Sedgwick, now in a literary situation—sincerely believes him worthy

28
Eleazar WilliamsSpringfield24 years
S   Lyman proper for Captain to recruit & guard the stores elegant figure & manners integrity capable & worthy
1 - 2

29
John CooperBostonLt last war of Artillery77 to 82
says his circumstances are same—

unsteady

S Higginson
}
good & faithful citizen

W Parsons
industrious integrity & fidelity

1 - 2

Knox—activity & good constitution

31
Jacob WelshLunenbergh37 yearsWooster
some experience in foot & Artillery

Knox—member of Legislature 4 years officer of Artillery would now accept company which he could command with reputa
1 - 2

Knox & Brooks well educated & sensible clever man Major P

32
Thomas SewardCapt last war
Knox—advanced in years & corpulent Garrison Capt few better Officers

33
Hall TuftsMedford
Brooks fine liberal education & personal qualities well quailfied for captain—such characters an acquisition
1 -

34
Nathanial ThwingBoston
was Lt. in army & Lt of Marines—good letter—
1

Knox—would be an acquisition as Capt

Divers  good accountant

35
Seth Smith JunrNorton
See 35  Subaltern
1 - 2

36
John Meacham
Divers Lt & Adjutant last war now in prime of life with good constitution good character
wont do

Hull—in his Regt. & discharged the duty well—was dismissed by Court Martial

40
William JonesConcord
cavalry   see Field Officers
1

42
John W GreatonScituate
speaks of his former service & asks Lty in the Navy
turned over to Navy

43
Samuel GreeneBoston Qrbetween 30 & 40  yearswrites a good hand & good letter
second Lieutenant & Adjutant of Militia
1 - 2

Landon good man friend to his country—will support the character

Knox

44
Levy MeadeLexington
Brooks no doubt he will do honor to his Commission writes indifferent hand
2

46
Jonas BridgeLexington
do
2

48
John RadfordWoburnnow Major of Militiawrites ill
Walker B G will acquit himself well

Brooks
from the soldierly manner of his conduct as officer of Militia has confidence he will comd well a company

Knox S R

1 - 2

50
William GordonNew BedfordDoes not appear on the list
comp of Artillery

was Capt of Artillery last War

Parson WestCollector Pope
}
has always sustained the character of a good Officer proprietor of a good landed estate

Questionable

53
John F JennisonBrookfield29 years
Dwight Forster   prefers his wishes

Brother—college education served in Shays insurrection unfortunate merchant

D Jackson good figure & strong mind

Knox transmits without remark

56
Samuel FowlesWatertown
now Capt of Cavalry

Gill Lt Gov respectable family & character

M military knowlege & skill
1 - 2

applies for Capt of Cavalry

58
David Hobbs
Letter from himself

59
John Whitney
Letters not his own

now Store Keeper seven years last War five now
Nothing

Gates—gave him leave of Absence

60
Augustus HuntBoston Qrgood letterLt of Militia
General Elliot—favourable in general terms

Ben diligent officer good disciplinarian
1 - 2

served as private of Cadets

74
Ebenezer Davis
said to be recom by P. Wadsworth

93
David C D Forestunfortunate in business

Boyd
}
Mills born Stratford irreproach–man of good character

Amasa Davis

Hull supports Mills character

John Hancock D Forest23 years
D C D Forest

his own letter very well

Knox transmits most qualified for Lieutenancy

101
John TolmanNeedhamLt last war & wounded in the service43 yearsnot found on army list
Selectmen qualified as to abilities activity & singular good conduct last War—zealous friend to Govermt
1

G. Adjutant unimpeached character vigorous & activity has known him several weeks

F Ames bravery at Lexington where wounded appears well informed good principles

Knox recommends for a Company

104
Erasmus BabbitSturbrigeWooster
D: Foster lawyer educated at Cambrige esteemed & respected
1

Eaton recommends him for batalion

Rice—of good person manners education good Captain

105
Ebenezer ThatcherLancaster
N Rice—liberal education studied law good character qualified will perhaps accept Lieutenancy
1

112
John ShepherdWaldoboro perhaps
S Wilde—amiable & unblemished confidence & esteem of his acquaintance

Dan Davis—personal & mental acquaintance intitle him to first attention
1 - 2

Knox only transmits

114
William HenshawN BedfordLt last war33 years

Claghorne now commands volunteer Artillery Company
}

Puddleford did his duty well attached to Government

Knox transmits without observation

Attention

115
Robert Duncan Jun~

Knox
}
good politics morals & qualified for Capt of Infantry

Jackson

Elliot

D sergeant

1

116
James CunninghamLunenburgh28
now commands volunteer Company

his own letter good
Attention

Knox transmits without remark

119
Edward Hogan

120
William WilliamsBoston

H Jackson
}
now Capt of Militia recommended pretty strongly for Capt

Knox

Brooks

Elliot

1

123
Isaac Rand Junr.

J C Jones
}
Abilities fortitude health & strength

W. Parsons

1

125
Osgood CarletonBostonLt last war
Knox—If he does not possess every requisite possesses as many as likely to accou morals good
respectable for Mathematics teacher

Boston M Society—

Divers

Dawes Otis &c

[Franklin]

128
Seth TinckhamWiscasset
Obiel Wood political sentiments good, believes will make good officer can raise men

G Knox barely transmits

133
Thomas BowmanLincoln

W Howard
}
no place mentions Letter to President

R Hallowell
mental qualifications

John Sheppard
firm friend to the Government

James Bridge
moral character

If recommends goodNo. 1for Capt or Lt.

President says excellent fœderalist father & son

139
Thomas ChandlerWorcester

A Bancroft
}
Gentleman of good connections & education fortune—military turn now com

Caldwell

N Paine

D: Foster

Presidents

1

140
Nathaniel Balch JunBoston
writes good letter

Knox
}
from knowlege of his general character recomd him as eligible to comd of a Company

Jackson

Eliot

1

Bradford

Otis—good moral character & do credit to service

141
Thomas W HooperNewbury Port

Jackson
}
See Lt.

Supervisor

1 Inquire

142
Samuel Henly
Capt last war conductor of Military stores since
Inquire

144
Eli Forbes
Honeywell, now Brigade Major fit for command of Company information & abilities now Register of Deeds
1

145
Thomas PhilipsCustine
Honeywell hes perfect Brigade Major & a good Officer
1

Field Officers

Caleb GibbsBostonMajor last War

Lincoln
}
Lt Col certify him qualified

Knox

Brooks

Jackson

1

3
John Frances   NBeverly

{
Danerespectable
field officer perhaps Lt Col

believes he would not serve lower than Major

served last War—has commanded with reputation a Militia Regt.

4
Christopher MarshallBoston

{
Major by brevet at the end of the war—good constitution

Lincoln
}
served with reputation & his services would now be valuable as Major

Knox

N Gilman

H Jackson

1 - 2

5
Isaac WinslowBoston30 years
Major or Capt of Cavalry

Knox Aide De Camp to General Elliot man of honor & from general character qualified mentioned no name with more confidence than this
1

6
William PerkinsBostonyet capable of efficient duty
Major of Artillery last war

Lincoln— good service for 23 years

Knox some expedient before mentioned would be desireable to employ—brave Capt of Artillery with brevet of Lt Col & address of 35

12
William Shepherd Junnow of NY
General Shep honest capable faithful man was an Ensign & Ad last war declines less than Majority
P

Knox & Brooks—select him as Major now Cap of Militia

26
Arthur LithgowWinslow Maine30 yearsOtis says he is Anti-foederal
North—respectability of family standing & character

Davis generally well

Nothing from General Knox

37
Fitch HallBoston

Brooks
}
served in insurrection

Knox
preeminently fit for comd of Regiment

No. 1Major

declined

39
John RoweBostonperhaps39 years
Ensign in the army

Brooks
}
intelligence bravery & fidelity fit him for Majority preferable for Major

Jackson

Knox

1 ☞

Knox
}
 believe he would make an excellent Major

Lincoln

40
William JonesConcordpreferable as Major

BrooksKnox
—Lawyer with handsome prospect now commands a troop—qualified for Majority but will accept captaincy

1 for Captaincy

47
James Brown
Brooks commanded an excellent company of Artillery—talents really military good Major

Lincoln confirms
1 - 2

Knox Brooks opinion always of high estimation

55
John LillieMilton
applicant for command of a Corps of Marines

GW Cert was Capt of Artillery conducted himself with diligence bravery & intelligence

Knox knowlege of Gunnery & Mathematics & fortification

5

77
George UlmerRichar40 years
Major P

Knox & Brooks
}
able energetic character would do honor to appointm

78
John WalkerWoburn35 years
Lt Colonel

28th of August

Knox & Brooks
}
strongly for provisional

79
Ephrain Emory[Haverhill]Capt of Militia & Brigade Major

KnoxBrooks
}
recom for Major Lt & adjutant last war & now considered as a valuable acquisition

1will accept a captaincy

Jacob Welsh
Lovejoy—activity alertness

Knox & Brooks
}
See Capt 31

57
Samson WoodGroton
T Bigeloe farmer in tolerable circumstances pretensions well founded in the army all last war—brave spirited punctual has been Major of Militia
Weak

T Williams transmits as if he doubted

76
Richard Honeywell

KnoxBrooks
}
strong for Lt. Col in provisional army

94
Jeremiah ClappWoburnnow Major of Mil & Brigade Inspector

Loaman Baldwin
}
friend to government

Walker
military genius

Not strong

102
Ralph Bowles
G Knox an old Officer desires employment probably a majority

122
John HobbyPortlandCapt last War
desirous of employment on the staff—fears his own health

136
Benjamin ShawNewbury Port
Majority

Aide De Camp to G Patterson late War
Attention

Divers—Major Generals & others recommend him as a good officer

will perhaps accept a Captaincy

143
John Blakenot found on army list
R: Honeywell Majority military genius good disciplinarian & old Con Officer
1

150
Stephen PeabodyPenobscot25
P. Wadsworth good education fine person manners
Major perhaps Captain

Lt Cols.

Simon Elliot

Caleb Gibbs

Majors

John Walker
E

Isaac Winslow
E

John Hobby
Capt last War

John Rowe
Ensign last War

40
1
William Jones
Concord

47
3
James Brown
Lexington 1 - 2

79
3
Ephram Emory
Haverhill

143

John Blake
Orrington Maine

26
5
John Burbeck s
Boston Ela

16

Samuel Jordan
Bideford do

34
4
Nathaniel Thwing Lt
Boston

101

John Tolman
Needham 1 - 2

104

Erasmus Babbe
Sturbridge Worcester

105

Ebenezer Thatcher
Lancaster will perhaps accept Lty

William Heywood
Winslow M

Solomon Phelps
Westfield

133

Thomas Bowman
Lincoln Maine

139

Thomas Chandler
Worcester

140

Nathaniel Blach
Boston

144

Eli Forbes
[Custine]

145

Thomas Phelps
Custine M

33
S1
Hall Tufts
Medford

21
2
John Pynchon
Salem

Simeon Draper
Brookfield

Lieutenants

150
Stephen Peabody
Penobscot M

17
Phineas Ashmem
Blanford

28
Eleazar Williams
Springfield

S 9
[James Church
Springfield]

30
[John Wheelwright
Boston]

49
[Caleb Aspinwall
Portland] M

67
[Wm. A. Barron
Cambridge]

83
[Nathaniel Soley
Charlestown]

100
[Charles Cutler
Boston]

145
Nathaniel Kidder
Belfast M

146
[Joseph Lee
Castine] M.

Jacob Allen
Sturbridge Worcester

Samuel Flagg Junr
ditto

Robert Duncan Junr
Boston Qr

John Shepherd
Waldoboro M

38
William Swan

Isaac Rand Junr.
[Cambridge]

108
Alpheus Cheny
Stockbrige

134
Samuel P. Fay
Concord

88
James A Weaton
Maine

[Ensigns]

10
[John Page Junr.
Salem]

11
[Charles Hunt
Watertown]

54
[Willm. Leverett
Boston]

90
[Willard Tayles
Maine]

146
[Warren Hall
Castine] M

John Roulstone
Boston

22
Jonathan Nichols
Boston

40
Abijah Harrington
Lexington

81
Daniel Hastings
New town

85
Moses M Bates
Spring field

86
Thomas Durant
New town

91
Jacob Ulmer
Maine

95
Marshall Spring
Weston

99
Daniel Bell
Boston

103
Duncan Ingrahan Tertius
PougkeepsieBoston Qr

138
James Gardner
Boston

96
Thomas Heald
Concord

90
David Tales
Maine

109
[Lathrop
Cohasset]

[Franklin Tinkham
Maine Wiscasset]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Louis Le Bègue Du Portail, 9 December 1798
From: Du Portail, Louis Le Bègue
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Sweed’s ford [Pennsylvania] dec 9th 1798

Je vous envoye mon cher general, le projet que vous m’avéz demandé. Je souhaite qu’il remplisse vos vües. Vous trouveréz par-cy par-la quelques negligences de Stile qui exigeroient que je le recopiâsse pour les faire disparoitre. Mais je n’ay jamais eu de patience pour copier, et d’un autre coté je ne veux pas vous envoyer une piece trop pleine de ratures. Au reste si vous avéz besoin de la Com⟨mu⟩niquer à quelques personnes, ⟨alors⟩ je ⟨serai⟩ obligé de la faire traduire. Ainsi cette ⟨collection⟩ de fautes disparoitra dans la traduction à moins que le traducteur se piquant d’une trop grande fidelité ne les y porte egalement. Ce que j’espere qu’il ne fera pas et je prends la liberté de vous recommander le revision.
Je ne compte pas aller à philadelphie avant 12 ou 15 jours, mais alors jy pass⟨erai⟩ quelques semaines, si vous avéz quelque ⟨chose⟩ a me faire scavoir ou me demander, vous ⟨voules⟩ bien vous servir de la voye Convenue. Adieu.
santé et prosperité

D P


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Hamilton, [10 December 1798]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hamilton, Elizabeth

Philadelphia [December 10, 1798] Monday

I expected with certainty my beloved Betsey to have left this place to day. Our business has consumed more time than was necessary. But that is not my fault. I cannot make every body else as rapid as myself. This you know by experience. Tis a consolation however that we cannot be detained much longer. It is difficult for Sloth itself to spin it out beyond this day & I shall fly to you the moment I can.
Adieu My Angel

AH


Title: George Washington to James McHenry, [13 December 1798]
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

[Philadelphia, December 13, 1798]
Sir

Since my arrival at this place I have been closely engaged, with the aid of Generals Hamilton and Pinckney, in fulfilling the objects of your letter of the 10th of November. The result is now submitted.
The two first questions you propose, respecting the appointment of the Officers and men of the troops to be raised in virtue of the act of Congress of the 16th. of July last among districts and states will naturally be answered together.

1 As to the apportionment of the Commissioned officers of the Infantry, no particular reason is discovered to exist at the present period for combining the states into districts; but it is conceived to be expedient to adopt as a primary rule the relative representative population of the several States. The practice of the government on other occasions, in the appointment of public officers, has had regard as far as was practicable to the same general principle; as one which by a distribution of honors and emoluments among the citizens of the different states, tends both to justice and to public satisfaction. This principle however must frequently yield to the most proper solution of character among those willing as well as qualified to serve, and sometimes to collateral considerations, which arising out of particular cases do not admit of precise specification. In the application of the rule, in this, as in other instances, qualifications of it must be admitted. The arrangement which will be now offered proceeds on this basis. You will observe that it does not deviate from the table you have presented. It is contained in the Schedule A.
2 As to the non commissioned officers and privates, it is conceived to be both unnecessary and inexpedient to make any absolute apportionment among the states. It is unnecessary, because, contemplating it as desireable that the men shall be drawn in nearly equal proportions from the respective states, this object, where circumstances are favourable, will be attained by the very natural and proper arrangement of assigning to the officers who shall be appointed recruiting districts within the states of which they are. It is inexpedient, because if it shall happen that the proportion of fit men cannot easily be had in a particular state, there ought to be no obstacle  to obtaining them elsewhere.
3 As to the officers of the dragoons, it does not seem adviseable to confine their selection to any subdivision of the UStates. Though very strong conjectures may be formed as to the quarters in which they would probably be employed, in the case of invasion, there can be nothing certain on this point, if this were even the criterion of a proper arrangement. And it may be presumed that it will conduce most to general satisfaction to exclude considerations of a local aspect. But from the small number of this corps, which is to be raised it would be found too fractional and for that among reasons inconvenient to aim at a proporti[on]al distribution among all the states. It is therefore supposed most adviseable to be governed principally by a reference to the characters who have occurred as candidates; leaving the inequality in the distribution to be remedied in the event of a future augumentation of this description of troops. The proportion at present is in various views inadequate; a circumstance which it may be presumed will of course be attended to should the progress of public danger lead to an extension of military preparation.
The materials furnished by you with the addition of those derived from other sources are insufficient for a due selection of the officers whom it is proposed to allot to the States of Connecticut North and South Carolina & Georgia. Hence the selection for these states must of necessity be deferred. It is conceived, that the best plan for procuring the requisite information and accelerating a desireable conclusion as to the three last mentioned States, will be to charge Major General Pinckney, who will avail himself of the assistance of Brigadier Generals Davy and Washington, to make the arrangement of those officers provisionally, and subject to the ratification of the President. It will be in their power to ascertain who are best qualified among those willing to serve; which will at the same time assure a good choice and avoid the disappointment and embarrassment of refusals. As to connecticut, you are aware of the progress which has been made and of the misapprehension which has occasioned an obstacle to a definitive arrangement. You will it is presumed be speedily in possession of the further information necessary, and having it can without difficulty complete the arrangement for this state.
The 3d. 4th. & 5th. of your questions may likewise be answered to gether.
The act for augmenting the army is peremptory in its provisions. The bounds of executive discretion as to the forbearance to execute such a law might perhaps involve an investigation nice in its own nature and of a kind which it is generally most prudent to avoid. But it may safely be said negatively, for reasons too plain to be doubted, that the voluntary suspension of the execution of a similar law could not be justified but by considerations of decisive urgency.
The existence of any such considerations is unknown.
Nothing has been communicated respecting our foreign relations to induce the opinion that there has been any change in the situation of the Country as to external danger which dictates an abandonment of the policy of the law in question. It need not now be examined how far it may be at any time prudent to relinquish measures of security suggested by the experience of accumulated hostility, merely because there are probable symptoms of approaching accommodation: It need not be urged that if such symptoms exist they are to be ascribed to the measures of vigour adopted by the Government; and may be frustrated by a relaxation in those measures affording an argument of weakness or irresolution: For has it not been in substance stated from the highest authority that no decisive indications have been given by France of a disposition to redress our past wrongs and do us future justice, that her decree alleged to be intended to restrain the depredations of French Cruisers on our commerce has not given and from its nature cannot give relief—that the most hostile of the acts by which she has oppressed the commerce of neutrals, that which subjects to capture and condemnation of neutral vessels and cargoes, if any part of the latter be of British production or fabric, not only has not been abrogated but has recently received an indirect confirmation—and that hitherto nothing is discoverable in the conduct of France which ought to change or relax our measures of defence.
Could it be necessary to enforce by argument so authoritative a declaration as it relates to the immediate object of consideration these among other reflections would at once present themselves.
Though it may be true that some late occurrences have rendered the prospect of invasion by France, less probable or more remote: Yet duly considering the rapid vicissitudes, at all times, of political and military events; the extraordinary fluctuations which have been peculiarly characteristic of the still subsisting contest in Europe; and the more extraordinary position of most of the principal nations of that quarter of the globe; it can never be wise to vary our measures of security with the continually varying aspect of European affairs. A very obvious policy dictates to us a strenuous endeavour as far as may be practicable, to place our safety out of the reach of the casualties which may befal the contending parties and the powers more immediately within their vortex. The way to effect this is to pursue a steady system—to organise all our resources and put them in a state of preparation for prompt action. Regarding the overthrow of Europe at large as a matter not intirely chimerical—it will be our prudence to cultivate a spirit of self-dependence—and to endeavour by unremitting vigilance and exertion under the blessing of providence to hold the scales of our destiny in our own hands. Standing, as it were, in the midst of falling empires, it should be our aim to assume a station and attitude which will preserve us from being overwhelmed in their ruins.
It has been very properly the policy of our Government to cultivate peace. But in contemplating the possibility of our being driven to unqualified War, it will be wise to anticipate that frequently the most effectual way to defend is to attack. There may be imagined enterprises of very great moment to the permanent interests of this Country which would certainly require a disciplined force. To raise and prepare such a force will always be a work of considerable time; and it ought to be ready for the conjuncture whenever it shall arrive. Not to be ready then may be to lose an opportunity which it may be difficult afterwards to retrieve.
While a comprehensive view of external circumstances is believed to recommend perseverance in the precautions which have been taken for the safety of the country—nothing has come to my knowlege in our interior situation which leads to a different conclusion. The principal inquiry in this respect concerns the finances. The exhibition of their state from the Department of the Treasury which you have transmitted, as I understand it, opposes no obstacle; nor have I been apprised that any doubt is entertained by the Officer who presides in that Department of the sufficiency of our pecuniary resources. But on this point I cannot be expected to assume the responsibility of a positive opinion. It is the province of the Secretary of the Treasury to pronounce definitively whether any insuperable impediment arises from this source.
The sound conclusion, viewing the subject in every light is conceived to be that no avoidable delay ought to be incurred in appointing the whole of the Officers and raising the whole of the men provided for by the act which has been cited. If immediately entered upon and pursued with the utmost activity, it cannot be relied upon that the troops will be raised and disciplined in less than a year. What may not another year produce? Happy will it be for us if we have so much time for preparation, and ill-judged indeed if we do not make the most of it! The adequateness of the force to be raised in relation to a serious invasion is foreign to the present examination. But it is certain that even a force of this extent, well instructed and well disciplined would in such an event be of great utility and importance. Besides the direct effects of its own exertions, the Militia rallying to it would derive from its example and countenance additional courage and perseverance. It would give a consistency and stability to our first efforts of which they would otherwise be destitute; and would tend powerfully to prevent great though perhaps partial calamities.

The senate being in session the officers to be appointed must of course be nominated to that body.
The pay of all who shall be appointed ought immediately to commence. They ought all to be employed without delay in different ways, in the recruiting service; but were it otherwise there ought to be no suspension of their pay. The law annexes it as a matter of right. The attempt to apply a restriction to executive discretion might be dissatisfactory; and justice to the public does not seem to require it, because the acceptance of an office which makes the person liable at pleasure to be called into actual service will commonly from the moment of that acceptance interfere with any previous occupation on which he may have depended. This observation cannot be applicable to myself because I have taken a peculiar and distinct ground to which it is my contention to adhere.
On the subject of your sixth question the opinion is that under existing circumstances; it is not adviseable to withdraw any of the troops from the quarters of the Country, which you mention, towards the Atlantic frontier. But the disposition in those quarters probably requires careful revision. It is not impossible that it will be found to admit of alterations favourable both to œconomy and to the military objects to be attained. The local knowlege of General Wilkinson would be so useful in an investigation of this sort, that it is deemed very important to direct him forthwith to repair to Philadelphia. If this be impracticable by land he may it is presumed come by way of New Orleans. It is observed that in his late communications with the Spanish Governor he has taken pains to obviate jealousy of the views of the UStates. This was prudent, and he ought to be encouraged to continue the policy. It will also be useful to employ a judicious Engineer to survey our posts on the Lakes in order that it may be ascertained in the various relations of trade and defence, what beneficial changes. if any, can be made. In this examination Presque-Isle and the South Western extremity of Lake Erie will demand particular attention.
The reply to your seventh question is that the companies directed to be added to the regiments of the old establishment ought as soon as convenient to reinforce the Western army. It is probable that in the progress of events they will be not less useful there than on the sea-board. Their destination in the first instance may be Pittsburgh.
The following disposition of the Artillery (the subject of your Eighth question) is recommended. The two Regiments by their establishment consist of 28 Companies of these nearly a batalion in point of number, forms part of the western army. A complete batalion there will suffice. Let there be assigned to the fortifications at Boston one company to those at New port two companies, to those at west point one and to those at New York two to those at Mud Island two, to those at Baltimore one to those at Norfolk two to those on Cape Fear River One to those at Charles town two to those at Savannah one to those at the mouth of St Mary one. The remaining two batalions had best be reserved for the army in the field. During the Winter they may retain the stations they now occupy. But as soon as they can conveniently go into tents it will be adviseable to assemble them at some central or nearly central point there to be put in a course of regular instruction, together with successive detachments of the Officers and non commissioned Officers of the sea board garrisons, until their services shall be actually required. The field officers will of course be distributed proportionally, assigning to each the superintendence of a certain number of companies; and, as to those in garrisoning the posts at which they are stationed.
The permanent disposition of the troops after they shall have been raised which is understood to be an object of your Ninth Question will probably be influenced by circumstances yet to be unfolded, and will best be referred to future consideration.
An arrangement for the recruiting service is the point of primary urgency. For this purpose each state should be divided into as many districts as there are companies to be raised in it, and to every company a particular district should be allotted, with one place of rendezvous in it, to which the recruits should be brought as fast as they are engaged: a certain number of these company districts wherever it can be done should be placed under the supervision of a field officer. During the Winter in most of the states it would be inconvenient to assemble in larger corps than companies. Great cities are to be avoided. The collection of troops there may lead to disorders and expose more than elsewhere the morals and principles of the soldiery.
But though it might now be premature to fix a permanent disposition of the troops, it may be not unuseful to indicate certain stations where they may be assembled provisionally and may probably be suffered to continue while matters remain in their present posture. The station eligible in this view may be found for two Regiments in the vicinity of Providence River some near Uxbrige for two other Regiments in the vicinity of Brunswick in New Jersey—for two other Regiments in the vicinity of the Potomack near Harpers Ferry, for two other Regiments in the vicinity of Augusta but above the falls of the Savannah. This disposition will unite considerations relative to the discipline & health of the troops and to the œconomical supply of their wants by water. It will also have some military aspects, in the first instance towards the security of Boston & New Port; in the second towards that of New York & Philadelphia in the third and fourth towards that of Baltimore Charleston Savannah and the Southern States generally and in the third particularly towards the reinforcement of the Western army in certain events. But the military motives have only a qualified influence; since it is not doubted that in the prospect of a serious attack upon this country the disposition of the army ought to look emphatically to the Southern Region as that which is by far most likely to be the scene of action.
As to your Tenth question, the opinion is, that the Government ought itself to provide the rations. The plan of furnishing money to the recruits as a substitute for this is likely to be attended with several inconveniences. It will give them a pretence for absence injurious to discipline and facilitating marauding and desertion. Many of the soldiery will be disposed to lay out too much of their money in ardent spirits and too little in provisions, which besides occasioning them to be ill fed will lead to habits of intemperance.

The subject of your 11th question is peculiarly important. The two modes have severally their advantages and disadvantages. That of purchases by Agents of the Government is liable to much mismanagement and abuse, sometimes from want of skill but much oftener from infidelity. It is too frequently deficient in œconomy; but it is preferable, as it regards the quality of the articles to be supplied, the satisfaction of the troops, and the certainty of the supply; which last is a point of the utmost consequence to the success of every military operation. The mode by contract is sometimes found more œconomical; but as the calculations of contractors have reference primarily to their own profit, they are apt to endeavour to impose on the troops articles of inferior quality; the troops suspecting this are apt to be dissatisfied even where there is no adequate cause and where defects may admit of reasonable excuse. In the attention to cheapness of price and other savings of expence, it from time to time happens that the supplies are not laid in as early as the service requires, or not in sufficient quantity, or are not conveyed with due asperity to the points where they are wanted. Circumstances like these tend to embarrass and even to defeat the best concerted military plans; which, in this mood, depend for their execution too much upon the combinations of individual avarice. It also occasionally happens that the Public, from the failures of the contractors, is under a necessity of interposing with sudden and extraordinary efforts to obviate the mischief and disappointments of those failures, producing, in addition to other evils, an accumulation of expence which the fortunes of the delinquent contractors, are insufficient to indemnify.
The union of the two modes will probably be found safest and best. Prudence always requires that magazines shall be formed beforehand at stations relative to the probable or expected scene of action. These magazines may be laid in by contract—and the transportation of the supplies from the magazines and the issuing of them to the army may be the business of the Military Agents, who must likewise be authorised & enabled to provide for the deficiencies of the contractors and for whatever may not be comprehended in the contracts. This plan will, to a great extent, admit the competition of private interest to furnish the supplies at the cheapest rate: by narrowing the sphere of action of the public agents it will proportionably diminish the opportunities of abuse; and it will unite as far as is attainable œconomy with the efficiency of military operations.
But to obtain the full advantages of this plan, it is essential that there shall be a man attached to the army, of distinguished capacity and integrity to be charged with the superintendence of the department of supplies. To procure such a man, as military honor can form no part of his reward, ample pecuniary compensation must be given; and he must be entrusted with large authority for the appointment of subordinate agents accompanied with a correspondent responsibility. Proceeding on this ground there would be a moral certainty of immense savings to the public in the business of supplies; savings the magnitude of which will easily be understood by any man who can estimate the vast difference in the results of extensive money transactions between a management at once skilful & faithful and that which is either unskilful or unfaithful.
This suggestion contemplates as a part of the plan that the procuring of supplies of every kind which in our past experience has been divided between two departments, of Quarter Master and Commissary, shall be united under one head. This unity will tend to harmony system and vigour. It will avoid the discordant mixture of civil with military functions. The Quarter Master General in this case, instead of being a purveyor as formerly, will besides the duties purely military of his station, be confined to the province of calling for the requisite supplies and of seeing that they are duely furnished; in which he may be rendered a very useful check upon the purveyor.
The extent of your twelveth question has been matter of some doubt. But no inconvenience can ensue from the answering it with greater latitude than may have been intended. It is conceived that the strongest consideration of national policy & safety require that we should be as fast as possible provided [with] Arsenals and Magazines of Artillery small arms and the principal articles of military stores and camp equipage equal to such a force as may be deemed sufficient to resist with effect the most serious invasion of the most powerful European nation. This precaution, which prudence would at all times recommend, is peculiarly indicated by the existing crisis of Europe. The nature of the case does not furnish any absolute standard of the requisite force. It must be more or less matter of judgment. The opinion is that the calculation ought to be on the basis of fifty thousand men, forty thousand infantry of the line two thousand riflemen four thousand horse, and four thousand Artillery men. And with regard to such articles as are expended by the use not less than a full years supply ought to be ready. This will allow due time from internal and external sources to continue the supply in proportion to the exigencies which shall occur. The schedule B contains an estimate of the chief of these articles. It is to be observed that the quantities there exhibitted are not additional to the present supply but the totals to be provided. As to cloathing, since we may always on a sudden emergency find a considerable supply in our markets, and the articles are more perishable, the quantity in deposit may be much less than of other articles—but it ought not under present circumstances to be less than a years supply for half the abovementioned force especially of the woolen articles.
I proceed to the last of your questions, that which respects the stations for magazines. It is conceived that three principal permanent stations will suffice and that these ought to be Springfield and Harpers Ferry which are already chosen, and the vicinity of Rocky Mount on the Wateree in South Carolina. These stations are in a great measure central to three great subdivisions of the United States; they are so interior as to be entirely safe and yet on navigable waters which empty into the Ocean and facilitate a water conveyance to every point on our sea Coast—they are also in well settled and healthy districts of the Country. That near Harper’s ferry it is well known possesses extraordinary advantages for founderies and other manufactories of iron. It is expected that a canal will ere long effect a good navigation between the Wateree & the Catawba; which whenever it shall happen will render the vicinity of the Rocky Mount extremely convenient to the supply of North Carolina by inland navigation. Pittsburgh west Point in New York, the neighbourhood of Trenton in New Jersey and Fayetteville in North Carolina may properly be selected as places of particular and occasional deposit. Large Cities are as much as possible to be avoided.

The foregoing comprises it is believed a full answer to the questions you have stated. I shall in another letter offer to your consideration some further matters which have occurred and are deemed to be of importance to our military service.
With respect & esteem   I have the honor to be Sir   Yr. very obed servant


Title: George Washington to James McHenry, 13 December 1798
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

Philadelphia, December 13, 1798
Sir

You will observe that in the arrangement of the officers allotted to New York there is an alternative of Wm. S. Smith or Abijah Hammond for Lt Colonel Commandant. Various considerations demand that the motive of this hesitation should be explained. Had military qualifications alone been consulted the name of Colonel Smith would have stood singly and he would have been deemed a valuable acquisition to the service. Had there even been no other source of objection than the erroneous political opinions of late attributed to him, his honor and attachment to his country would have been relied upon. But as well myself as the two generals whose aid I have had in the nominations have been afflicted with the information well or ill founded that he stands charged in the opinion of his fellow citizens with very serious instances of private misconduct; instances which affect directly his integrity as a man. The instances alleged are various but there is one which has come forward in a shape which did not permit us to refuse it our attention. It respects an attempt knowingly to pledge property to Major Burrows by way of security, which was before conveyed or mortgaged for its full value to Mr. William Constable; without giving notice of the circumstance, and with the aggravation, that Major Burrows had become the Creditor of Col Smith through friendship to an amount which has proved entirely ruinous to him. While the impossibility of disregarding this information forbade the selection of Col Smith absolutely, the possibility that it might admit of some fair explanation dissuaded from a conclusion against him. As it will be in your power to obtain further lights on the subject it has appeared adviseable to leave the matter in the undetermined form in which it is presented and to assign the reason for it. You are at perfect liberty to communicate this letter to the President. Candour is particularly due to him in such a case. It is my wish to give him every proof of frankness, respect and esteem. Lest it should be suspected that Major Burrows has officiously interfered to the prejudice of Col Smith, it is but justice to him to declare that such a suspicion would be entirely without foundation.
With great consideration & regard   I have the honor to be   Sir   Your obed servt


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Wells, 15 December 1798
From: Wells, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Connells Ville [Pennsylvania] December the 15th 1798
Sir

The hard treatment I have recieved from the government of the united States Since the western insurrection is the Cause of my apealing to you, in the Spring of 94—after the many insults and abuses I had recieved I purposed to you that I would resign you incouraged me by an asshurance that government would never let me Suffer. I have petitioned Congress for relief but to no purpose. Now Sir if my former Services have met you aprobation pray dwo Something for me.
I am with respect yours

Benja Wells


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Gunn, 16 December 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Gunn, James

N York Decr: 16th. 1798
Dr Sir.

I regretted that my excessive avocations did not permit me, as I intended to call upon you before I left Philadelphia. In addition to the pleasure of doing it I was desirous of knowing the state of your mind with regard to military service. It was not that there was any thing worth your acceptance, upon the disposal of which at the time I could have had any influence, but I wished to understand what would be agreeable to you, with a view to the progress of affairs. If we are to be seriously engaged in military operations, ’tis not a compliment to you to say, that you are one of those men who must be in the field. With such an enemy we shall want men who will not barely do their duty, but will do it with an energy equal to all dangers.
with very great regard   I am dear Sir   Your obed Servant

A Hamilton
General Gunn


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Caleb Gibbs, 17 December 1798
From: Gibbs, Caleb
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, December 17, 1798. “… Since my return to Boston I have been Inspecting and mustering the troops at Castle Island.… This Inspection and muster induces me to write this Letter, to give you my Ideas respecting recruiting. This company has upwards of fifty men Including Non Commissioned Officers and musick and I can assure you some of them are as likely men as I ever saw and a great proportion of them are young men from twenty to twenty five years of age.… The troops here are in great want of many necessaries. They want to be systemized. There is no regular commissary nor no Quarter Master. The Officers know not where to apply for any thing but to the butcher who very often supplies them with articles totally out of his line; and you may rest assured that it could be made to appear, that the United States will pay fifty pr. Cent more for the supplies of the troops in this quarter and what will be here (in all probability) for the want of some responsible person to act in the different capacities necessarily required.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 17 December 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Private
New York Decr. 17. 1798
Dear Sir

You will observe among the propositions lately communicated by the Commander in Chief, that of the addition of two troops to complete the Regiment of Cavalry to ten troops. The idea was that these two troops should be Hussars. It is much to be wished that Congress would agree to a present addition of two troops to be carried to the actual number of the others. In the distribution of New York into company districts, it will be well to allot to Capt Church Rensselaer County and its Vicinity. There his Lieutenant resides and there he has numerous and influential friends.
With true esteem & regard   Yr. Obed servant

A Hamilton
James McHenry Esqr


Title: Account with the Trustees of the American Iron Company, [18 December 1798]
From: Hamilton, Alexander,Trustees of the American Iron Company
To:

[December 18, 1798]

Alexander Hamilton Esqr. To the Trustees of the American
Iron Company    Dr

To the last installment on lands in Crosby’s Patent
£605.13.5

Interest from 4 Decr. 1795 to April 1797 is 1 Year 4 Months
56.10.7

do do 4 April 1797 to 20 Decr 1798 is 1 Year 8 M. 16 Days
72.10.10

£734.14.10


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Heth, 18 December 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Heth, William

[New York, December 18, 1798. On January 14, 1799, Heth wrote to Hamilton: “It is some days since I was made happy by the receipt of your kind favor of the 18th. Ulto.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Jay, 18 December 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jay, John

New York, December 18, 1798. “You may remember that I have heretofore recommended to you Mr.  Inglis, who studied the law with me, for the Office of Notary. He entertains an idea that a vacancy for such an appointment now exists, and has reminded me of my promise to be useful to him—I with pleasure reiterate my recommendation.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 18 December 1798
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philad 18 Decr. 1798
My dear Sir

I have received this moment your two letters of the 16 & 17th instant, and have read them over cursorily tho’ not without fully understanding them.
I intend that the recruiting service shall be wholly confided to you and shall send you the printed instructions and a copy of the English system on which they are founded. It cannot however be entered upon immediately or until our cloathing is in more forwardness.
It is certain, that you must have been a looser in the way you mention, by accepting the office you now hold, and as certain, that justice requires that none of the pay or emoluments annexed to it should be refused. I shall as early as possible obtain a proper decision.
I am preparing a report to the President, who has seen the two letters and all other papers & letters communicated to me by General Washington. I shall add some matters to the subjects for congressional provisions they embrace when it will be transferred to Congress by message.
The idea of two companies of Hussars is judicious.
Yours affecty.

James McHenry
Gen Hamilton Esq


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Gunn, [19 December 1798]
From: Gunn, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, December 19, 1798]
Dr Sir

I have received your very friendly and Obliging favor of the 16th. Inst. I was very Solicitous to Converse with you on the Subject of our military establishment, But it appeared to me that during your Stay in this City your Whole time was occupied with public business, and I was unwilling to interupt you. The only moment I had the pleasure of your conversation I certainly understood it to be your intention to return to this City in the course of a very few weeks. Indeed it appears to me indispensable.
You are not accustomed to engage in Objects of much moment without consideration, and Sir, I am persuaded it can be no part of your plan merely to Execute the feeble arrangements of other men. The President has no Talent for war, and Mc.Henry is an infant in detail, and if I am Correct, Genl. Washington is not to take the field, but in the event of the provisional army being called into Service. You are, of course, not only Charged With the Command of the army; But, in a great degree, the direction of the war department, and Sir, you will permit me to add that the Legislative aid necessary for the Support of that department must be arranged by yourself. I therefore Conclude that it is yet your intention to visit Phila. Which precludes the necessity of my going into detail. Trained up in the honorable pursuit of a Military life, I frankly Confess my regard for you as a Commander, and my passion for military Service; But my Worthy Sir, I have seen Such dishonorable means employed to wound the feellings of men, of unblemished integrity and have witnessed so many efforts to render the profession of Arms disreputable, that, I am disgusted with every thing connected with publick life. Situated in a Country, in the event of war, which, most probly will be the Scene of action, I have no wish, or expectation, that, it will be my lot to keep out of the field. But Sir, I am Sincere when I assure you, that, it is my fixed determination not to be Commanded by Some men now in Commission—by this declaration I wish it to be understood that my Objection doth not extend beyond ⟨white and sevier⟩ in the provisional army, and the field officers in Wilkinsons army. In any event I entreat you to believe it will give me infinite pleasure to do you all the service in my power.
Have the goodness to communicate your wishes with regard to the invigoration of the measures of defence.
With very great regard   I am   Dr. Sir,   Your Obt. Set.

James Gunn
Philadelphia, Decr. 19th. 1798
Genl. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Rufus King, 19 December 1798
From: King, Rufus
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Lond. Dec. 19 1798
Dear sir

The same uncertainty continues to perplex us concerning the Recommencement of the war. One day we are told that Naples has really begun & that Austria is on the way to support her; the next, that Naples is kept back by Austria to whom the Directory have made the most Advantageous offers. It is certain that france feels the change that has within the last six months taken place in Europe and is extremely anxious to defeat the projected Coalition. Prussia observed & seems inclined to adhere to the same cautious policy that for some time has governed her administration.
Poor Spain is compleatly under the influence of the Directory, and however strange it may Seem the King who most cordially hates England shed tears and was inconsolable on the news of Nelsons victory. Portugal is threatened with a war with Spain unless she concludes a Peace on the Terms of the Directory.
There is great discontents in many of the french Departments, but still the Levy of the New Requisition proceeds. The Insurrection of Brabant extends itself, but tho it will give the Directory some trouble, cannot prove successful unless the war soon recommences. Mr. Grenville an Elder Brother of the Minister, has gone on a special mission to Berlin. He is said to be very clever, and has heretofore refused to go into the diplomatic course. Unless favorable circumstances of success exist, one wd. scarcely believe that the Minister would just now have employed his Brother. The french will lose all their Islands trade & influence in the mediterranean. Minorca has been taken by the English, Malta must fall. Corsica will probably expel the french, tho England will not again accept of their capricious allegiance. Zante, Cerigo & Cephalonia, & probably Corfu have fallen into the Hands of the Turks & Russians.
A Report from Constantinople states that Buonaparte has been assassinated; tho probable, it wants Confirmation. Mr Pitt will be supported in the tax of 10. per C. on the income of the Nation; indeed the People appear firm & resolved to support the Govt. & the prosperity of their manufactures & Trade enable them to do so.
Adieu   Yrs.

R K

P. S. I make you my hearty congratulations on the Settlement of the Question of Rank.

Genl. Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 20 December 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Private
New York Decr. 20. 1798
Dear Sir

I have been reflecting on the subject of an arrangement for the command of the 2d. Regiment of Artillery and for the Inspectorship of Artillery. I believe on the whole you can do nothing better than appoint Tousard, who I understand is next in rank after Burbeck, to the command of the Regiment and Major Hoops to the Inspectorship. Confidence, by halves is seldom wise. Toussard is in the service—delicate service has been and must be entrusted to him—his fidelity will be best secured by giving him a fair and equal chance, and shewing him that he is not suspected. I shall be much mistaken, if he does not prove to merit confidence.
Hoops is very intelligent industrious and persevering—he also has a good deal of information. Perhaps he may have displeased by being sometimes importunate; but that ingredient in the character which may have led to this, as an indication of zeal and perseverance, ought to be no objection to him.
Yrs. truly

A Hamilton
J Mc.Henry Esq


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 26 December 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Private
New York Decr. 26 1798
Dear Sir

I do not know what is the practice in nominations, as to annexing Counties to names; but I do know that to annex them to the military nominations about to be made will be likely to lead to error. In several cases it was somewhat uncertain what County was the place of residence, and if I recollect rightly there is certainly a mistake in this respect in at least one instance in the state of New York. I discover that Andrew White is of Dutchess County. I think a different one is annexed to his name. With true esteem & regard.
Yr. Obed servant

A Hamilton
James Mc.Henry Esqr.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 20 December 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: McHenry, James

Private
New York Dec. 20, 1798
Dear Sir

I am this moment favoured with your letter of the 18th. instant and thank you for the ideas personal to me.
Mr. Laurance, somewhat abruptly, regrets that I promoted his son’s nomination, as it was his desire that he should continue to pursue his profession. As I could not divine this desire of his, he certainly had no cause of displeasure with me.
In case Laurance’s name is witheld at the request of his father, I should be glad to see Young Harrison (the son of our district Attorney and a clever young man—about 20 already admitted to the bar) in his place. I do not mean as high up on the list.
Yrs. truly

A Hamilton
James McHenry Esq.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 20 December 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

[New York, December 20, 1798. On December 21, 1798, Wolcott wrote to Hamilton: “I have recd. your favour of the 20th.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Harrison Gray Otis, 21 December 1798
From: Otis, Harrison Gray
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Phila Decr 21. 1798
Sir

I was very solicitous while you was in this city for the indulgence of an interview with you that would have enabled me to learn your opinion in relation to such defensive measures as ought now to be adopted by Congress, and I called upon you once with that view, but being then disappointed and perceiving afterwards the pressing nature of your immediate avocations, I chose rather to forego the advantage of your sentiments than invade the little leisure which you appeared able to command. Being since appointed Chairman of a committee to consider the policy of extending our internal means of defence, the great confidence which I feel in the correctness of your political opinions, and your permission on a former occasion to avail myself of them induce me to request that I may be honored with your general ideas upon this subject, if you can without inconvenience devote an hour to my instruction. In particular; Is it advisable to augment the present permanent army under all circumstances; if not, would it be eligible to reduce the number of men in each regiment with a view to economy and to an application of the money saved to the extension of the naval armament; or are there any prominent defects in the military establishment which demand a reform. Will there be any utility in reviving the section of the act which establishes the provisional army, or the act providing for the draft of eighty thousand militia. Does good policy require very liberal grants of money for fortifications? Is it expedient to continue the act prohibiting intercourse with France and her acknowledged dominions. If so, as the act now stands, may commerce be carried on between the United States, and any part of the French Dominions that shall withdraw from its allegiance to the Parent Country; or if this be doubtful, would it be politic to grant an express permission to the President to open the trade with any part of the French Dominions when in his opinion the public good would admit or require it.

Shall the President be authorized to attack, capture & hold all or any of the French West India Islands as an indemnity for the spoliations committed on our trade?
If upon these or any other subjects, you see fit to gratify me with your opinions, they will be cherished & respected by me, without a disclosure of the source from which they are derived; and if on the other hand you think this liberty is not warranted by the duration or intimacy of my personal acquaintance, you will I hope excuse and impute it to an habitual and profound respect for your character & talents.
I am Sir   yr most obedt Servt.

H. G. Otis


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 21 December 1798
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Phila. Decr. 21. 1798
Dear Sir

I have recd. your favour of the 20th. with Twenty Dollars. The sum I lent you was Thirty Dollars. Yesterday I sent you a small bill which you forgot to pay. No Consul can be recd. at present.
The result of all the enquiries which I have been able to make is, that a small sum, might be raised by the gradual sale of 7½ ⅌ Cent Stock at par but that there can be no certainty, that a Loan would immediately be filled, for the sum we want under 8 ⅌ Cent.

If among your acquaintances you discover any circumstances to vary this opinion be pleased to inform me soon.
I am respectfully yrs

Oliv Wolcott.
A Hamilton Esqr


Title: Introductory Note: To James Gunn, [22 December 1798]
From:
To:

[New York, December 22, 1798]

This letter concerns proposals for reorganizing the Army. This is a complicated subject, for it involves a series of bewildering statutes enacted by Congress concerning the Regular Army, Additional Army, Provisional Army, and Eventual Army.
When the Constitution went into effect in 1789, the new government inherited an army which had served under the Continental Congress and which was the nucleus of the Regular Army of the United States. To this force, which originally consisted of one regiment of infantry and one battalion of artillery, a second regiment of infantry was added in 1791, and in March, 1792, additional legislation provided for an army of four regiments of infantry, one battalion of artillery, and a squadron of light dragoons. In an effort to achieve coordination among the three branches of the Army established by Congress, Major General Anthony Wayne on September 4, 1792, issued general orders transforming the Regular Army into the Legion of the United States. The Legion, in turn, was divided into four sublegions, each of which consisted of one company of artillery, one regiment of infantry, and one troop of light dragoons. During the next four years the only change in the Regular Army occurred in 1794 when the battalion of engineers was enlarged to a corps. Throughout the period when the Army was divided into sublegions, officers held their appointments as infantrymen, artillerists, or dragoons in one of the four sublegions.
In 1796 Congress abolished the division of the armed forces into sublegions and enacted legislation providing for four regiments of infantry, a corps of artillerists and engineers, and two companies of light dragoons. Two years later a regiment of artillerists and engineers was added to this force, and in 1799 the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers was transformed into a regiment. By 1799, then, the Regular Army consisted of four regiments of infantry of eight companies each, two regiments of artillerists and engineers, and one regiment of light dragoons. Hamilton and his contemporaries usually referred to the Regular Army as the “old regiments” or the “old army.”
Throughout the period when Hamilton served as inspector general, most of the Regular Army (with the exception of the Additional Army mentioned below) was stationed in the West. One regiment of infantry and two companies of cavalry were assigned to the frontiers of Georgia and Tennessee. The three other regiments of infantry were distributed along the Canadian border and at posts on the Miami, Ohio, Mississippi, and Tombigbee rivers. The members of a battalion of artillerists and engineers also served on the northern and western frontiers. The remainder of the artillerists and engineers, except for those in the field, manned the nation’s coastal defenses. Hamilton was in command of those troops on the western frontier and in the Middle Atlantic and New England states; Charles Cotesworth Pinckney commanded the cavalry and the troops in the southern states.
The Additional Army was created on July 16, 1798, with the passage by Congress of “An Act to augment the Army of the United States, and for other purposes.” This act increased the authorized strength of the Army from 4,173 to 14,421 officers and men and authorized the President “to raise, in addition to the present military establishment, twelve regiments of infantry, and six troops of light dragoons to be enlisted for and during the continuance of the existing differences between the United States and the French Republic, unless sooner discharged.…” Although the twelve regiments provided for by this act were part of the Regular Army, they were a separate and distinct part and were treated as such, and the War Department handled the recruitment and officering of these regiments separately from those of the Regular Army. Moreover, Hamilton held his commissions as major general and inspector general under the act of July 16, 1798, and during the last months of 1798 and all of 1799 he devoted a large part of his time and attention to raising the twelve additional regiments authorized by Congress.
Each of the infantry regiments in the Additional Army consisted of ten companies. These regiments were numbered from five to sixteen, and each was assigned a state or states from which it could draw its recruits. The Fifth Regiment was to enlist soldiers in South Carolina, Georgia, and Kentucky; the Sixth Regiment in North Carolina and Tennessee; the Seventh and Eighth regiments in Virginia; the Ninth Regiment in Maryland; the Tenth Regiment in Pennsylvania; the Eleventh Regiment in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware; the Twelfth Regiment in New York; the Thirteenth Regiment in Connecticut; the Fourteenth Regiment in Massachusetts; the Fifteenth Regiment in Massachusetts and the District of Maine; and the Sixteenth Regiment in New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Enlistees for the cavalry in the Additional Army were to be drawn from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and South Carolina. Hamilton was in command of those regiments of the Additional Army north of Virginia, and Pinckney commanded the cavalry and the infantry regiments in Virginia and the other southern states.
The beginning of the end of the Additional Army was signalized on February 20, 1800, with the passage of “An Act to suspend in part, an act, intituled ‘An act to augment the Army of the United States; and for other purposes,’” which provided: “That all further enlistments under the second section of an act, intituled ‘An act to augment the army of the United States, and for other purposes’ shall be suspended until the further order of Congress, unless in the recess of Congress, and during the continuance of the existing differences between the United States and the French Republic, war shall break out between the United States and the French Republic, or imminent danger of invasion of their territory by the said Republic, shall in the opinion of the President of the United States, be discovered to exist.” Then on May 14, 1800, Congress passed an act providing for the disbandment of most of the Additional Army. Under this act it was “lawful for the President of the United States to suspend any further military appointments” to the Additional Army. In addition, this act provided: “That the President of the United States shall be, and hereby is authorized and empowered to discharge, on or before the fifteenth day of June next, all such officers, non-commissioned, or raised, under and by virtue of the said acts, or either of them, except the engineers, inspector of artillery, and inspector of fortifications. Provided always, that nothing in this act contained shall be construed to authorize any reduction of the first four regiments of infantry, the two regiments of artillerists and engineers, the two troops of light dragoons, or of the general and other staff, authorized by the several laws for the establishing and organizing of the aforesaid corps.”

The Provisional Army was a paper organization which not only never took the field but was not even raised. On May 28, 1798, Congress passed an act authorizing the “President of the United States … in the event of a declaration of war against the United States, or of actual invasion of their territory, by a foreign power, or of imminent danger of such invasion discovered in his opinion to exist, before the next session of Congress, to cause to be enlisted, and to call into actual service, a number of troops, not exceeding ten thousand non-commissioned officers, musicians and privates, to be enlisted for a term not exceeding three years.…” Congress reconvened on December 3, 1798, and on that date, in accordance with the terms of the act of May 28, 1798, the President lost his authority to raise a Provisional Army. In the interval between the passage of the act and the reconvening of Congress, Adams had made no effort to recruit anyone for the Provisional Army, but he did nominate—and the Senate approved—seven men to be officers in that army. The commissions held by these officers did not, however, automatically lapse on December 3, 1798, for Section 9 of the act of May 28, 1798, provided that “the commander of the army … and the general, field and commissioned officers who may be appointed by virtue of this act, shall respectively continue in commission during such term only as the President shall judge requisite for the public service.” The point, however, is academic, for these officers had no troops to command either before or after December 3, 1798. Finally, to add still further to the confusion, no record has been found that either the President or the War Department ever informed these men that they were no longer officers in the Provisional Army.
To fill the statutory void created by the demise of the Provisional Army, Congress gave the President the authority to raise the Eventual Army. On March 2, 1799, Congress passed “An Act giving eventual authority to the President of the United States to augment the Army.”  This act provided: “That it shall be lawful for the President of the United States, in case war shall break out between the United States and a foreign European power, or in case imminent danger of invasion of their territory by any such power shall, in his opinion, be discovered to exist, to organize and cause to be raised in addition to the other military force of the United States, twenty-four regiments of infantry, a regiment and a battalion of riflemen, a battalion of artillerists and engineers, and three regiments of cavalry, or such part thereof as he shall judge necessary; the non-commissioned officers and privates of which to be enlisted for a term not exceeding three years.…” The final section of this act stated that the President’s power to raise such an army “shall cease at the expiration of the session of Congress next ensuing the present, unless … [it] shall be, by some future law, continued in force for a longer time.” During the period that this law was in effect (that is, until May 14, 1800), Adams submitted to the Senate no nominations for officers in the Eventual Army. On the other hand, on March 11, 1799, James McHenry wrote to William Macpherson of Pennsylvania that he had been appointed a brigadier general in the Eventual Army and that he would command the troops sent to suppress Fries’s Rebellion. Macpherson thus had the distinction, if indeed it was a distinction, of being the only officer in the Eventual Army.
The bulk of the troops under Macpherson’s command were from the Corps of Volunteers which was originally authorized on May 28, 1798, by Section 3 of “An Act authorizing the President of the United States to raise a Provisional Army.” Private citizens who organized themselves into volunteer companies and who provided their own arms and equipment could be accepted into the service of the United States by the President “… at any time within three years after the passing of this act, if in his opinion the public interest shall require,” and they “… shall be liable to be called upon to do military duty at any time the President shall judge proper, within two years after he shall accept the same.” An act of June 22, 1798, gave the President the authority to issue rules for the training and discipline of the volunteers, and the conditions of service under which the volunteers would serve were later changed by an act of March 2, 1799. Although many such companies were formed, the only ones which saw active duty were those commanded by Macpherson.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Laurance, 26 December 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Laurance, John

New York December 26. 1798
Dear Sir

Mr. Lenox has just informed me that our joint bond for six thousand Dollars in his hands became due the middle of this month & that as yet no arrangement has been made for satisfying it, intimating at the same time that he was willing to take negotiable notes at short periods for the amount. He added that in a letter to him you spoke of my having to pay a part of the sum.
On this last point there is a misconception with one of us. If my calculation be right I have already advanced beyond my proportion of the land. My mind has been long since made up not to extend my share beyond what was originally intended. The operation is one very unpromising, and, as it turns out, very inconvenient to me. I have never made other speculations to compensate me for the badness of this one; of course I am not disposed to go further in it than was strictly my original concern. And I think when you reflect on my situation altogether, you will not expect that I shall voluntarily engage for more. I regret any embarrassment which may attend you but your resources are far greater than mine and you can more easily than me meet the demand.
I must accordingly entreat you my good friend to lose no time in taking up the bond. I shall be extremely pained if my credit suffers in a case in which I am only nominal.
If you can satisfy me by a statement of our mutual advances that on the ground of my interest in the premisses, I ought to pay a further sum I will exert myself to do it.
With great esteem & regard I am   Dr Sir   Yr. very obed serv

A Hamilton

PS. Pray attend carefully to this business
John Laurance Esq


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Harrison Gray Otis, 27 December 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Otis, Harrison Gray

New York Decr: 27th 1798
Dr Sir

I did not receive ’till yesterday your letter dated 21st instant. No apology was necessary for so gratifying a mark of your good opinion, upon which I set the high value it so justly deserves.
In the inclosed extract of a letter to another of the Government, you will find my ideas generally on the subject of your letter. I adopt this method of communication as equally effectual and best adapted to the multiplicity of my avocations. Some additional remarks in direct reference to your particular questions may perhaps be requisite to fulfil your object.
Any reduction of the actual force appears to me inexpedient. It will argue to our enemy that we are either very narrow in our resources or that our jealousy of his designs are abated. Besides that with a view to the possibility of internal disorders alone, the force authorised is not too considerable. The efficacy of Militia for suppressing such disorders is not too much to be relied upon. The experience of the Western expedition ought not to be . That was a very uphill business. There were more than once appearances to excite alarm as to the perseverance of the troops and it is not easy to foresee what might have been the result had there been serious resistance. The repetition of similar exertions may be found very difficult—insomuch as to render it extremely   in these precarious times to have the Government armed with the whole of the force which has been voted.
There are several defects in the military establishment which demand reform as well for œconomy as efficiency. On these there has been an ample communication from the commander in Chief to the department of War. I cannot conceive why nothing has yet gone to Congress—certainly this cannot be much longer delayed. Will it be amiss informally to interrogate the Minister? If the silence is persisted in, you shall know from me the objects.
The extract answers your question as to the Provisional army. I think the act respecting the 80,000 Milita ought likewise to be revived. The effect abroad will be good, and it will likewise be so at home as the evidence of a reliance of the Government on the Militia.
Good policy does not appear to me to require extensive appropriations for fortifications at the present juncture. Money can be more usefully employed in other ways. A good deal of previous examination ought to lead to a plan for fortifying three or four cardinal points. More than this will be a misapplication of money. Secure position for Arsenals and Dock Yards are in this view a primary object.
Your last question respecting the West India Islands I shall reserve for a future communication.
With great esteem & regard   I am Dr Sir   Your very obed serv

A Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Laurance, 28 December 1798
From: Laurance, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

PhiladelphiaDec 28 1798
Dear Sir

I have received your favor of the 26th Instant. The enclosed, which I had prepared to shew you, before your departure from this place, if correct, states the purchase, and payments, on account of it. You will perceive I have made my Interest one fourth of the whole, being the Interest you supposed I originally intended to have. The loss on the Bills I have not brought into account. My proportion of that loss I shall have to settle. I informed Mr Lennox I should have to pay, the greater part of the Obligation, and as this was the only Sum due, it was reasonable we should have a Release from Mr. Gilchrist, who held the Mortgage, of the parts we had, supposing the one fourth of Mr Marks’, and the other Lands, Mortgaged by him, were sufficient Security, that this Security would increase, by our being able to improve the property, which, at present, we were not; owing to the Mortgage on it. I have applied to know what Ballance is due from Mr Mark, who ought to have paid the Instalments, as ours became due, but have not received it. You must remember that our paper was partly negotiable, and partly not, and the reasons for the latter were, that we should have credit on the Mortgage, and not be pressed to pay. I should be very sorry if your Credit should suffer, or mine either, by not paying this Obligation, with as much punctuality as a Note at Bank. I presume, considering the payments made, on this purchase, to Mr. Mark, and the ballance due from him on the Mortgage, affecting our property, if the Obligation had remained with him, neither your Credit, nor mine would suffer for not immediately discharging it; and why it should have this Effect, because it is in the possession of Mr. Lennox I cannot determine, but, I assure you, because it is in his hands I shall make exertions to pay it, which I should not have done had it remained with Mr Mark, after his Assurance to us, when we wished the last negotiable note to be placed to the Credit of the Mortgage, that he should be ready to pay, as the Instalments became due.
I am sorry the purchase has been an unprofitable one to you. It has been more so to myself; but I hope the result will be otherwise, when these times, which neither you nor myself could divine, would have happened, have passed away, and a state of things Exists, very different from the present. It has been my wish to divide this property, and to effect it, I wrote, last Summer, to Mr Wright, who divided the Towns into Lots requesting he would class the Lots in each Town and divide them into four parts, excepting as many Lots from the Divission, as were necessary, for the compact Settlements intended in No 21, and inclose the Information to Mr Church, that we might ballot for our respective Shares, you and Mr Church for two quarter parts, and Mr Mark and myself each a quarter. I have requested Col Troup to ask Mr Church whether he has received the Information; but as yet I am not informed on the Subject. If he has not received it I shall, when I am in New York, which I hope will be, in the course of next week, execute a Deed to Mr Church and yourself for an undivided Moiety holding Mr Marks quarter, subject to the Incumbrance on it, so that each person may dispose of his property as he deems best.
I am Dear Sir   respectfully & sincerely   Your obedient servant

John Laurance
Major Genl Hamilton

P.S. I beg you to be carefu⟨l of⟩ the Statement.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 28 December 1798
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.

New York Decr: 28. 1798
Dear Sir,

I have embraced every opportunity since the receipt of yours of the 21st to obtain light on the subject of the loan. But my research has been essentially fruitless. Opinions are as various as they are vague. You must therefore conjecture, and you ought to act on the sure side for selling the loan.
For my part, I retain the opinion that the loan ought to be upon eight per Cent Interest, the Capital to be fixed for ten years, and then to become redeemable at pleasure; One per Cent to be appropriated cotemporarily as a purchasing fund for sinking the principal. And the loan to be open for competition, for the entire or any less sum time enough to let in European bidders. The true principle is to get as good terms as possible for the United States, exclusive of local considerations; which can only have a temporary and illusory operation. The Stock will find its way to its proper market wherever it may be first sold.
Yrs very truly

A Hamilton

Inclosed the sum necessary per your balance & the Hair dressers bill Account deducting two dollars which I paid him myself.
O Wolcott Esqr.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Hamilton, [1798]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Hamilton, Elizabeth

[1798]. “I am almost ready to abandon every thing & fly to you—But I am so entangled with war & law that it is impossible.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Martin S. Wilkins, [1798]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wilkins, Martin S.

[1798]. Acknowledges receipt of Wilkins’s “notice as to the Trial between Gouverneur and Kemble and Gomez Lopez & Rivera.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Ward, 1 January 1799
From: Ward, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, January 1, 1799. “… your sentiments if now communicated to energettic members of Congress might at this time do much good by preventing a lasting dishonor to the Government. The long injured creditors who hold the New Emission Bills, now lodged in the Treasury, have their petition before the Senate, where a decision may be expected soon. But from past experience of disregard to the sacred pledge of national faith, to pay the Int. on this debt, the creditors have prepared an Appeal to Congress, to be published before the close of this session, in case no provision shall be made, & therein state the parts which prove that they are deprived of their right & property in direct violation of the pledged faith of the United States, & defrauded in opposition to every thing sacred in law, & the constitution.… The creditors wished to communicate these sentiments, & their intentions, to you, that your wisdom & patriotism might be employed to correct this error in govt. before the knowledge of it is made known to the world.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Macpherson, 3 January 1799
From: Macpherson, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia Jany. 3, 1799
Dear Sir

The Secretary at War not having in his possession the Drafts you wish to obtain, I applied to Captain Hill—who after taking some Days to deliberate offers to furnish a Plan—with the condition that a Copy shall not be taken of it—for 600 Dollars. As this Sum is infinitely beyond what I supposed he would demand—I must beg to hear from you again before I say any thing more to him. “Its to be understood, that this Draft is to commence at Sandy Hook—comprehend Amboy, Staten Island, the North River as far as Greenwich —from thence to Blackwels Island, with part of Long Island—the works erected—as well as those contemplated by the British during the War, Soundings etc.”
I shall at all times be happy to receive your commands and pray you to believe me
Most sincerely yours.

W Macpherson


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Cooper, 5 January 1799
From: Cooper, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York] January 5, 1799. “Inclosed I send you the Dr. of a Deed, already executed by myself & Mr & Mrs Livingston to a Mr John Brown of Providence, Rhode Island. Mr Bogart, Mr Brown’s Counsel has perused the original and approves it but as you have been associated as Counsel with him for Mr Brown, he is desirous that you should also peruse the Deed.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Marquis de Lafayette, 6 January 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

New York January 6. 1799

I have been made happy my dear friend by the receipt of your letter of the 12th of August last. No explanation of your political principles was necessary to satisfy me of the perfect consistency and purity of your conduct. The interpretation may always be left to my attachment for you. Whatever difference of opinion may on any occasion exist between us can never lessen my conviction of the goodness both of your head and heart. I expect from you a return of this sentiment so far as concerns the heart. Tis needless to detail to you my political tenets. I shall only say that I hold with Montesquieu that a government must be fitted to a nation as much as a Coat to the Individual, and consequently that what may be good at Philadelphia may be bad at Paris and ridiculous at Petersburgh.
I join with you in regretting the misunderstanding between our two countries. You will have seen by the Presidents speech that a door is again opened for terminating them amicably. And you may be assured that we are sincere, and that it is in the power of France by reparation to our merchants for past injury and the stipulation of justice in future to put an end to the controversy.
But I do not like much the idea of your being any way implicated in the affair, lest you should be compromitted in the opinion of one or the other of the parties. It is my opinion that it is best for you to stand aloof. Neither have I abandonned the idea that ’tis most adviseable for you to remain in Europe ’till the difference is adjusted. It would be very difficult for you here to steer a course which would not place you in a party and remove you from the broad ground which you now occupy in the hearts of all. It is a favorite point with me that you shall find in the universal regard of this country all the consolations which the loss of your own (for so I consider it) may render requisite.
Mrs Church and Mrs Hamilton unite in assurance of their affectionate remembrance. Believe me always
Your very cordial & faithful friend

A H
Marquis de la Fayette


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 9 January 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

War department January 9. 1799
Sir

I have received your letter dated the 7th. instant.
The President has directed me to signify to you that he considers you in service from the first day of November 1798 in consequence of your being summoned by letter bearing date the 15 October to attend at Philadelphia or Trenton as soon as possible and in all events by the 10 November. Your pay and emoluments will therefore take date from the first day of November 1798.
I am Sir   with great respect   Your obed servant

James McHenry
Major Genl. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 9 January 1799
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia] 9 Jany 1799
Dear Hamilton.

The official letter of this date fixes the commencement of your pay and emoluments. I shall as soon as possible define your duties and command. In the mean while I should be glad to have your own ideas on the subject. You will proceed on your report for a system of tactics & discipline. You will also endeavour to ascertain the best positions for your recruiting parties and general rendzvouses within the several grand subdivisions—and will not forget the bill conformably to my report. Church’s nomination concurred in. Several of those nominated for inferior grades postponed by the Senate for further information.
yours sincerely

James McHenry
Gen Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Mangin, 11 January 1799
From: Mangin, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, January 11, 1799. States that he was originally hired to supervise the construction of the batteries for the defense of New York City, that he was subsequently hired to fortify Governors Island, and that he is now city surveyor. Complains that he is not adequately paid. Describes his qualifications as an engineer and asks Hamilton for a military rank.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Stephen Van Rensselaer, 11 January 1799
From: Van Rensselaer, Stephen
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[January 11, 1799. On January 27, 1799, Hamilton wrote to Van Rensselaer, “I ought to beg your pardon for not having before answered your letters of the 12th of Novem and 11th instant.” Letter of January 11, 1799, not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Philip Church, 12 January 1799
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Church, Philip

[New York, January 12, 1799. “… In virtue of the privilege and authority to me given by law I do hereby appoint you to be my Aide de Camp to have and to hold all the compensations rights and authorities to the said Office annexed or appertaining so long as you shall continue therein. And I do hereby require all persons whom it may concern to obey and respect accordingly.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Duer, 13 January 1799
From: Duer, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, January 13, 1799. The summary of this letter reads: “Thanks for Hamilton’s interposition with Wolcott.” Letter not found.]