Chapter XI: Part 11

The capital proposed falls far short of your idea, and, indeed, far short of what it ought to be; but I am confident, if this is once accomplished, the capital may afterwards be increased to almost any amount. To propose a large sum in the outset, and fail in the attempt to raise it, might prove fatal. To begin with what is clearly in our power to accomplish, and on that beginning, to establish the credit that will inevitably command the future increase of capital, seems the most certain road to success. I have thought much about interweaving a landed security with the capital of this Bank, but am apprehensive it would convey to the public mind, an idea of paper being circulated on that credit, and that the Bank, of consequence, must fail in its payments, in case of any considerable run on it: and we must expect that its ruin will be attempted, by external and internal foes. I have therefore left that point to the future deliberations of the Directors of this Bank, to whom, in due time, I shall communicate your address. I esteem myself much your debtor for this piece, not merely on account of the personal respect you have been pleased to express, but also on account of your good intentions: and for these, and the pains you have taken, I not only think, but on all proper occasions, shall say, the public are also indebted to you.

My office is new, and I am young in the execution of it. Communications from men of genius and abilities will always be acceptable; and yours will always command the attention of, Sir,

Your obedient, humble servant,
Robert Morris.

Colonel Hamilton.

SCHUYLER TO HAMILTON.

Albany, May 30, 1781.

Dear Sir:

Your favor, covering copies of the letters which passed between the General and you, I received on Friday last at Saratoga, which I left, somewhat indisposed, on Sunday, and arrived in the evening. The fatigue of the journey increased my disorder, which is the quinsy, with so much rapidity, that before Tuesday morning I was twice bled to prevent suffocation. The inflammation is subsiding, and I have been able to swallow a little broth to-day. I propose to attend the Legislature the latter end of the next week, when I shall have the pleasure of seeing you at Fishkill on the Sunday following. I believe you may prepare yourself to go to Philadelphia, as there is little doubt but you will be appointed.

The enemy are arrived at Crown Point: their number not perfectly ascertained, but I believe about two thousand. It is said they intend to fortify there. A rumor prevails that the three companies of Van Schaik’s, now to the northward, are to be called down. If so, I shall instantly remove my family and stock from Saratoga, being certain, if I delay it more than four days after the troops move, that the enemy will possess themselves of the whole. Adieu.

I am, dear Sir,
Most affectionately
And sincerely,
Your obedient servant,
Ph: Schuyler.

Colonel Hamilton.

HAMILTON TO MRS. HAMILTON.

Camp Near Dobbs’ Ferry, July 10, 1781.

The day before yesterday I arrived here, but for want of an opportunity could not write any sooner; indeed, I know of none now. Finding when I came here, that nothing was said on the subject of a command, I wrote the General a letter, and inclosed him my commission. This morning Tilghman came to me in his name, pressed me to retain my commission, with an assurance that he would endeavor, by all means, to give me a command, nearly such as I could have desired in the present circumstances of the army. Though I know you would be happy to hear I had rejected this proposal, it is a pleasure my reputation would not permit me to afford you. I consented to retain my commission, and accept the command. I quarter, at present, by a very polite and warm invitation, with General Lincoln, and experience from the officers of both armies every mark of esteem. * * *

A. Hamilton.

HAMILTON TO WASHINGTON.

Camp, August 7, 1781.

Sir:

The other day I applied to Colonel Tilghman for an order for shoes, for the two companies of levies. He thought, on a general principle, it could not be granted; but as from the best of my own recollection, confirmed by inquiry of others, I have reason to believe a distinction was made last campaign in favor of the advanced corps, in the case of Cortland’s regiment, I am induced to submit the matter to your Excellency.

Your Excellency is sensible that the service of an advanced corps, must be in general more active than of the line; and that, in a country like this, the article of shoes is indispensable. If the men cannot be supplied, they cannot perform the duty required of them; which will make the service fall heavier upon that part of the corps which is not under the same disability, as well as render a considerable part of it of much less utility. I will not add any personal consideration to those which affect the service; though it certainly cannot be a matter of indifference to me.

The men, I am informed, have, in general, received a bounty of about thirty pounds each, which is spent. The State makes no provision for them; and the fact is, they cannot supply themselves: they must therefore be destitute if they have not a continental supply.

The distinction last campaign, was, if I am not mistaken, that shoes were an article of absolute necessity, and therefore to be allowed, though the articles of clothing were refused.

I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully,
Your Excellency’s
Most ob’t and humble serv’t,
A. Hamilton.

To General Washington.

HAMILTON TO MRS. HAMILTON.

August, 1781.

In my last letter I informed you that there was a greater prospect of activity now, than there had been heretofore. I did this to prepare your mind for an event which, I am sure, will give you pain. I begged your father, at the same time, to intimate to you, by degrees, the probability of its taking place. I used this method to prevent a surprise, which might be too severe to you. A part of the army, my dear girl, is going to Virginia, and I must, of necessity, be separated at a much greater distance from my beloved wife. I cannot announce the fatal necessity, without feeling every thing that a fond husband can feel. I am unhappy; I am unhappy beyond expression. I am unhappy, because I am to be so remote from you; because I am to hear from you less frequently than I am accustomed to do. I am miserable, because I know you will be so; I am wretched at the idea of flying so far from you, without a single hour’s interview, to tell you all my pains and all my love. But I cannot ask permission to visit you. It might be thought improper to leave my corps at such a time, and upon such an occasion. I must go without seeing you--I must go without embracing you;--alas! I must go. But let no idea, other than of the distance we shall be asunder, disquiet you. Though I said the prospects of activity will be greater, I said it to give your expectations a different turn, and prepare you for something disagreeable. It is ten to one that our views will be disappointed, by Cornwallis retiring to South Carolina by land. At all events, our operations will be over by the latter end of October, and I will fly to my home. Don’t mention I am going to Virginia.

HAMILTON TO MRS. HAMILTON.

Head of Elk, September 6, 1781.

Yesterday, my lovely wife, I wrote to you, inclosing you a letter in one to your father, to the care of Mr. Morris. To-morrow the post sets out, and to-morrow we embark for Yorktown. I cannot refuse myself the pleasure of writing you a few lines. Constantly uppermost in my thoughts and affections, I am happy only when my moments are devoted to some office that respects you. I would give the world to be able to tell you all I feel and all I wish, but consult your own heart and you will know mine. What a world will soon be between us! To support the idea, all my fortitude is insufficient. What must be the case with you, who have the most female of female hearts? I sink at the perspective of your distress, and I look to heaven to be your guardian and supporter. Circumstances that have just come to my knowledge, assure me that our operations will be expeditious, as well as our success certain. Early in November, as I promised you, we shall certainly meet. Cheer yourself with this idea, and with the assurance of never more being separated. Every day confirms me in the intention of renouncing public life, and devoting myself wholly to you. Let others waste their time and their tranquillity in a vain pursuit of power and glory; be it my object to be happy in a quiet retreat with my better angel.

A. Hamilton.

SCHUYLER TO HAMILTON.

Albany, September 16, 1781.

My Dear Sir:

The mail which was taken a few days ago at Hampton, has probably deprived me of the pleasure of a line from you.

We are advised, by a letter from Mr. Carter, that General Washington embarked with all except the rear division of the French, at the head of Elk on the 8th inst.; hence I hope you are now operating against Cornwallis. It is difficult to judge with precision of your prospects at this distance; but matters and appearances are so favorable, that they justify a hope that the operations will be crowned with ample success.

The Legislature of this State is to convene on the 1st of October, at Poughkeepsie: delegates are to be chosen: your friends will propose you. If you should be appointed, you will have time to consider, whether to accept or refuse will be most eligible. Should Cornwallis and his army fall into our hands, peace may, and probably will, be the consequence. If so, I should most earnestly wish you in Congress: and if not, I should still prefer it to your remaining in the army, for reasons that are obvious.

I am, dear Sir,
Affectionately and sincerely,
Your obedient servant,
Ph: Schuyler.

Colonel Hamilton.

HAMILTON TO LA FAYETTE.

Camp Before York Town, Oct. 15, 1781.

Sir:

I have the honor to render you an account of the corps under my command in your attack of last night upon the redoubt on the left of the enemy’s lines. Agreeably to your orders we advanced in two columns with unloaded arms: the right composed of Lieutenant-Colonel Gimat’s battalion and my own, commanded by Major Fish; the left, of a detachment commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Laurens, destined to take the enemy in reverse, and intercept their retreat. The column on the right was preceded by a vanguard of twenty men, led by Lieutenant Mansfield; and a detachment of sappers and miners, commanded by Captain Gilliland, for the purpose of removing obstructions.

The redoubt was commanded by Major Campbell, with a detachment of British and German troops, and was completely in a state of defence.

The rapidity and immediate success of the assault are the best comment on the behavior of the troops. Lieutenant-Colonel Laurens distinguished himself by an exact and vigorous execution of his part of the plan, by entering the enemy’s work with his corps among the foremost, and making prisoner the commanding officer of the redoubt. Lieutenant-Colonel Gimat’s battalion, which formed the van of the right-attack, and which fell under my immediate observation, encouraged by the decisive and animated example of their leader, advanced with an ardor and resolution superior to every obstacle. They were well seconded by Major Fish with the battalion under his command, who, when the front of the column reached the abatis, unlocking his corps to the left, as he had been directed, advanced with such celerity as to arrive in time to participate in the assault.

Lieutenant Mansfield deserves particular commendation for the coolness, firmness, and punctuality with which he conducted the vanguard. Captain Olney, who commanded the first platoon of Gimat’s battalion, is entitled to peculiar applause. He led his platoon into the work with exemplary intrepidity, and received two bayonet wounds. Captain Gilliland, with the detachment of sappers and miners, acquitted themselves in a manner that did them great honor.

I do but justice to the several corps when I have the pleasure to assure you, there was not an officer nor soldier whose behavior, if it could be particularized, would not have a claim to the warmest approbation. As it would have been attended with delay and loss, to wait for the removal of the abatis and palisades, the ardor of the troops was indulged in passing over them.

There was a happy coincidence of movements. The redoubt was in the same moment enveloped and carried in every part. The enemy are entitled to the acknowledgment of an honorable defence.

Permit me to have the satisfaction of expressing our obligations to Col. Armand, Capt. Legongne, the Chevalier De Fontevieux and Capt. Bedkin, officers of his corps, who, acting upon this occasion as volunteers, proceeded at the head of the right column, and entering the redoubt among the first, by their gallant example contributed to the success of the enterprise.

Our killed and wounded you will perceive by the inclosed return. I sensibly felt, at a critical period, the loss of the assistance of Lieutenant-Colonel Gimat, who received a musket ball in his foot, which obliged him to retire from the field. Captain Bets, of Laurens’s corps, Captain Hunt and Lieutenant Mansfield, of Gimat’s, were wounded with the bayonet in gallantly entering the work. Captain Kirkpatrick, of the corps of sappers and miners, received a wound in the ditch.

Inclosed is a return of the prisoners. The killed and wounded of the enemy did not exceed eight. Incapable of imitating examples of barbarity, and forgetting recent provocations, the soldiery spared every man who ceased to fight.

I have the honor to be,
With the warmest esteem and attachment,
Sir, your most ob’t and humble serv’t,
A. Hamilton,
Lieut. Col. Commanding.

Major-General the Marquis De La Fayette.

Return of the killed and wounded in the advanced corps commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Hamilton, in an attack on the enemy’s left redoubt, on the evening of the 14th of Oct., 1781.

Table Key: K = Killed W = Wounded

===================++=======++=======++=======++========++=======++======= || Lieut.|| || || Sub- || Ser- || Rank & || Col. ||Majors.||Capt’s.||alterns.||geants.|| File. -------------------++---+---++---+---++---+---++---+----++---+---++---+--- || K | W || K | W || K | W || K | W || K | W || K | W -------------------++---+---++---+---++---+---++---+----++---+---++---+--- Lt. Col. Hamilton’s|| | || | || | || | || | || | battalion, || | || | || | || | || | || | 4 Lt. Col. Gimat’s || | || | || | || | || | || | battalion, || | 1 || | || | 2 || | || 1 | 1 || 7 | 15 Lt. Col. Laurens’ || | || | || | || | || | || | detachment, || | || | || | 1 || | || | || 1 | 5 Corps of Sappers || | || | || | || | || | || | and Miners, || | || | || | 1 || | || | || | 1 -------------------++---+---++---+---++---+---++---+----++---+---++---+--- Total, || | 1 || | || | 4 || | || 1 | 1 || 8 | 25 ===================++===+===++===+===++===+===++===+====++===+===++===+===

HAMILTON TO WASHINGTON.

1782.

Sir:

I need not observe to your Excellency, that respect for the opinion of Congress will not permit me to be indifferent to the impressions they may receive of my conduct. On this principle, though I do not think the subject of the inclosed letter of sufficient importance to request an official communication of it, yet I should be happy it might in some way be known to the members of that honorable body. Should they hereafter learn, that though retained on the list of their officers, I am not in the execution of the duties of my station, I wish them to be sensible, that it is not a diminution of zeal which induces me voluntarily to withdraw my services, but that I only refrain from intruding them, when circumstances seem to have made them either not necessary or not desired; and that I shall not receive emoluments without performing the conditions to which they were annexed. I also wish them to be apprised upon what footing my future continuance in the army is placed; that they may judge how far it is expedient to permit it. I therefore take the liberty to request the favor of your Excellency to impart the knowledge of my situation in such manner as you think most convenient.

I have the honor to be,
With perfect respect,
Your Excellency’s
Most ob’t and humble servant,
A. Hamilton.

General Washington.

HAMILTON TO WASHINGTON.

Philadelphia, March 1, 1782.

Sir:

Your Excellency will, I am persuaded, readily admit the force of this sentiment, that though it is the duty of a good citizen to devote his services to the public, when it has occasion for them, he cannot, with propriety or delicacy to himself, obtrude them when it either has, or appears to have none. The difficulties I experienced last campaign in obtaining a command, will not suffer me to make any further application on that head.

As I have many reasons to consider my being employed hereafter in a precarious light, the bare possibility of rendering an equivalent will not justify, to my scruples, the receiving any future emoluments from my commission. I therefore renounce, from this time, all claim to the compensations attached to my military station during the war, or after it. But I have motives which will not permit me to resolve on a total resignation. I sincerely hope a prosperous train of affairs may continue to make it no inconvenience to decline the services of persons, whose zeal, in worse times, was found not altogether useless: but as the most promising appearances are often reversed by unforeseen disasters, and as unfortunate events may again make the same zeal of some value, I am unwilling to put it out of my power to renew my exertions in the common cause, in the line in which I have hitherto acted.

I shall accordingly retain my rank while I am permitted to do it; and take this opportunity to declare, that I shall be at all times ready to obey the call of the public, in any capacity, civil or military (consistent with what I owe to myself), in which there may be a prospect of my contributing to the final attainment of the object for which I embarked in the service.

I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully,
Your Excellency’s
Most obedient servant,
A. Hamilton.

General Washington.

HAMILTON TO MEADE.

Philadelphia, March, 1782.

A half hour since brought me the pleasure of your letter of December last. It went to Albany and came from thence to this place. I heartily felicitate you on the birth of your daughter. I can well conceive your happiness on that occasion, by that which I feel on a similar one. Indeed, the sensations of a tender father of the child of a beloved mother, can only be conceived by those who have experienced them.

Your heart, my Meade, is peculiarly formed for enjoyments of this kind. You have every right to be a happy husband--a happy father. You have every prospect of being so. I hope your felicity may never be interrupted.

You cannot imagine how entirely domestic I am growing. I lose all taste for the pursuits of ambition. I sigh for nothing but the company of my wife and my baby. The ties of duty alone, or imagined duty, keep me from renouncing public life altogether. It is, however, probable I may not any longer be engaged in it. I have explained to you the difficulties which I met with in obtaining a command last campaign. I thought it incompatible with the delicacy due to myself, to make any application this campaign. I have expressed this sentiment in a letter to the General, and, retaining my rank only, have relinquished the emoluments of my commission, declaring myself, notwithstanding, ready at all times to obey the calls of the public. I don’t expect to hear any of these, unless the state of our affairs should change for the worse, and lest by any unforeseen accident that would happen, I choose to keep myself in a situation again to contribute my aid. This prevents a total resignation.

You were right in supposing I neglected to prepare what I promised you at Philadelphia. The truth is, I was in such a hurry to get home that I could think of nothing else. As I set out to-morrow morning for Albany, I cannot from this place, send you the matter you wish.

Imagine, my dear Meade, what pleasure it must give Eliza and myself to know that Mrs. Meade interests herself in us. Without a personal acquaintance, we have been long attached to her. My visit at Mr. Fitzhugh’s confirmed my partiality. Betsy is so fond of your family, that she proposes to form a match between her boy and your girl, provided you will engage to make the latter as amiable as her mother.

Truly, my dear Meade, I often regret that fortune has cast our residence at such a distance from each other. It would be a serious addition to my happiness if we lived where I could see you every day; but fate has determined it otherwise. I am a little hurried, and can only request, in addition, that you will present me most affectionately to Mrs. Meade, and believe me to be,

With the warmest
And most unalterable friendship,
Yours,
A. Hamilton.

LA FAYETTE TO HAMILTON.[18]

Paris, April 12, 1782.

Dear Hamilton:

However silent you may please to be, I will nevertheless remind you of a friend who loves you tenderly, and who, by his attachment, deserves a great share in your affection. This letter, my dear sir, will be delivered or sent by Count de Segur, an intimate friend of mine, a man of wit and of abilities, and whose society you will certainly be pleased with. I warmly recommend him to you, and hope he will meet from you with more than civilities. Now let us talk politics.

The old Ministry have retired, and Lord North was not sorry at the opportunity. The new ministers are not much our friends: they are not friends to each other: they have some honest men with little sense, and some sensible men without honesty. They are forced to new measures, not only by circumstances, but also by the dispositions they have formerly announced.

_Entre nous seuls._ 81 [_the British Ministry_] gave a hint to 82 [_the French Ministers_], but it would not do without 54 [_America_]. Now the reverse will probably be done; after which, arrangements will take place in a few months, and I wish you was here, not so much 205 [_Secretary to Dr. Franklin_], as to the Commission. However, I would like 205 to be 125 [_Minister to the French Court_]. If you are 153 [_Member of Congress_], and if something is said to you there, I wish you may be employed in the answer. 5 [_French ships_] without 9 [_Spanish ships_] (and 4 [_Dutch_] is nothing), will not, I fear, give 40 [_Charleston._] That is a cause of delay, and the 7 [_Spaniards_] think much more of 8 [West Indies]. But I hope for 26 [_Carolina_] and 22 [_Georgia_] in 18 [_September_]. 84 [_the King of France_] has answered about 47 [_peace_], as you and I, and every good American, may wish. In the present situation of affairs, I thought my presence was more useful to the cause in this part of the world than it could be on the other side of the Atlantic. I wish to have some matters well arranged before I go, and then I hope to set sails towards my friends in America.

Be pleased, my dear friend, to present my best respects to your lady. My compliments wait on General Schuyler and all the family. Adieu, dear Hamilton.

With the most sincere attachment,
I am, for ever,
Your devoted, affectionate servant,
La Fayette.

Colonel Hamilton.

[18] The _figures_ in the present letter are part of a cipher concerted between Hamilton and La Fayette. The interpretations, here placed between brackets, are written over the figures, on the originals, in General Hamilton’s handwriting.--_Editor._

MORRIS TO HAMILTON.

Office of Finance, Philadelphia, May 2, 1782.

Sir:

Mr. Charles Stewart, late Commissary General of Issue, has informed me you are disposed to quit the military line for the purpose of entering into civil life. He, at the same time, induced me to believe, that you would accept the office of Receiver of the Continental taxes for the State of New-York. The intention of this letter is to offer you that appointment. The duties of the office will appear, in a great degree, from the publications made by me on this subject. In addition, it will be necessary that you correspond frequently with me, and give accurate accounts of whatever may be passing in your State, which it may be necessary for this office to be acquainted with. But this, and other things of that sort, will be more fully communicated after you have signified your acceptance of the office. For the trouble of executing it, I shall allow you one-fourth per cent. on the moneys you receive. The amount of the quota called for from New-York, for the current year, is, as you know, three hundred and seventy-three thousand, five hundred and ninety-eight dollars. I shall be glad to know your determination as soon as possible. I make to you no professions of my confidence and esteem, because I hope they are unnecessary; but if they are, my wish that you would accept the offer I make is the strongest evidence I can give of them.

I pray you, Sir, to believe me,
Very respectfully,
Your most ob’t and humble serv’t,
Robert Morris.

Colonel Hamilton.

HAMILTON TO MORRIS.

Albany, May 18, 1782.

Sir:

I had this day the honor of receiving your letter of the second instant, and am much obliged by the mark of your confidence which it contains; and to Colonel Stewart for his friendly intentions upon the occasion.

My military situation has indeed become so negative that I have no motive to continue in it; and if my services could be of importance to the public in a civil line, I should cheerfully obey its command. But the plan which I have marked out to myself is the profession of the law; and I am now engaged in a course of studies for that purpose. Time is so precious to me, that I could not put myself in the way of any interruptions, unless for an object of consequence to the public or to myself. The present is not of this nature. Such are the circumstances of this State, the benefit arising from the office you propose would not, during the war, exceed yearly one hundred pounds; for, unfortunately, I am persuaded it will not pay annually into the Continental treasury above forty thousand pounds; and on a peace establishment this will not be for some time to come much more than doubled. You will perceive, sir, that an engagement of this kind does not correspond with my views, and does not afford sufficient inducement to relinquish them. I am not the less sensible of the obliging motives which dictated the offer; and it will be an additional one to that respect and esteem with which I have the honor to be, very truly sir,

Your most obedient, humble servant,
A. Hamilton.

To the Hon. Robert Morris, Esq.

MORRIS TO HAMILTON.

Office of Finance, June 4, 1782.

Sir:

I have received your favor of the eighteenth of May. I am much obliged by the friendly sentiments you express for me, which, be assured, I shall retain a grateful sense of. I see, with you, that the office I had the pleasure of offering, will not be equal to what your abilities will gain in the profession of the law; but I did intend that the whole sum should have been paid, although the whole quota of the taxes had not been collected by the State: consequently the object is greater than you supposed, and the business might probably be effected without more attention than you could spare from your studies. If so, I should still be happy in your acceptance; and will leave the matter open until I have an opportunity of hearing from you upon the subject.

I pray you to believe that I am,
With unfeigned esteem,
Your most obedient servant,
Robert Morris.

Colonel Alexander Hamilton.

HAMILTON TO MORRIS.

Albany, June 17, 1782.

Sir:

The letter which you did me the honor to write me, of the fourth instant, came to my hands too late to permit me to answer it by the return of the same post. The explanation you give of your intention in your late offer, makes it an object that will fully compensate for the time it will deduct from my other occupations. In accepting it, I have only one scruple, arising from a doubt whether the service I can render, in the present state of things, will be an equivalent for the compensation. The whole system (if it may be so called) of taxation in this State is radically vicious, burthensome to the people, and unproductive to Government. As the matter now stands, there seems to be little for a Continental Receiver to do. The whole business appears to be thrown into the hands of the County Treasurers; nor do I find there is any appropriation made of any part of the taxes collected, to Continental purposes, or any provision to authorize payment to the officer you appoint: this, however, must be made. There is only one way in which I can imagine a prospect of being materially useful; that is, in seconding your applications to the State. In popular assemblies much may sometimes be brought about by personal discussions, by entering into details, and combating objections as they rise. If it should, at any time, be thought advisable by you to empower me to act in this capacity, I shall be happy to do every thing that depends on me to effectuate your views. I flatter myself, to you, sir, I need not profess that I suggest this, not from a desire to augment the importance of office, but to advance the public interest.

It is of primary moment to me, as soon as possible to take my station in the law; and on this consideration I am pressing to qualify myself for admission the next term, which will be the latter end of July. After this, if you think an interview with me necessary, I will wait upon you in Philadelphia. In the mean time, I shall be happy to receive your instructions, and shall direct my attention more particularly to acquiring whatever information may be useful to my future operations. I have read your publications at different times, but as I have not the papers containing them in my possession, it will be necessary that their contents should be comprised in your instructions. A meeting of the Legislature is summoned early in the next month, at which, if I previously receive your orders, it may be possible to put matters in train.

I am truly indebted to you, sir, for the disposition you have manifested upon this occasion; and I shall only add an assurance of my endeavors to justify your confidence, and prove to you the sincerity of that respectful attachment with which

I am, Sir,
Your most obedient servant,
A. Hamilton.

To Robert Morris, Esq.

HAMILTON TO COMFORT SANDS.

Albany, June 22, 1782.

Sir:

Mr. Morris having lately offered me the appointment of Receiver of Continental taxes for this State, I wish to collect as much and as accurate information as possible of the situation of its money concerns. It will be, among other things, of great importance that I should form an idea of the money brought into the State and carried out of it; and, with a view to this, I take the liberty to request you will furnish me with an estimate of what you have reason to think you will lay out in this State in the course of a year, in the transactions of your contract business. Mr. Duer has been so obliging as to promise me a sketch of his disbursements in this quarter, and has informed me that you are principally charged with what relates to the supplies of the main army as well as West Point; and will therefore be best able to enlighten me on that head. The calculation may not admit of absolute precision; but if it comes near the truth it will answer. It would be useful that you could distinguish, as nearly as possible, what part will be in specie, what in bank and in other notes. As this is a matter that can be attended with no inconvenience to any person, and will be conducive to the public utility, I flatter myself you will favor me with a speedy communication.

I am, with esteem, Sir,
Your most obedient servant,
A. Hamilton.

To Comfort Sands, Esq.

LA FAYETTE TO HAMILTON.

Paris, June 29, 1782.

My Dear Hamilton:

How it happens that I still am in Paris, I hardly can myself conceive; and what is more surprising, there are two frigates going, neither of which will carry your friend to America. Don’t think, however, dear Hamilton, I am so much altered as to be kept here by pleasure or private affairs. But in the present circumstances, the American ministers have insisted upon my remaining some time longer at this court; where, they say, I may render myself more useful to our cause, than I can possibly be in America, during an inactive campaign. My return, however, is only deferred for a few weeks; and after some answers have arrived from England, which, I think, will discover the views of, but not yet produce a reconciliation with, Great Britain, I intend embarking for Philadelphia, where I hope to land in the first days of September.

This stroke of Count de Grasse has greatly deranged my schemes. I hoped for 40 [_Charleston_] and perhaps for better than that; but nothing until 6 [_Jamaica_] was done. 40 [_Charleston_] I much expected. 9 [_the Spaniards_] don’t like 54 [_America_]. We must previously have 40 [_Charleston_]; and then, to put them in good humor, do something about 8 [_West Indies_]; both of which are not yet done; and after that I hope. But at all events, this campaign will be very inactive, I think. However, they are going to take Gibraltar, and will gather so many means of doing of it, that it is said they will succeed. After this trial, the forces of the House of Bourbon will be distributed with a better scale. 46 [_Negotiations_] is going on, and 47 [_Peace_] expected; but not, I think, immediately. You have a good chance, and I believe you have time, to be one of the 125 [_Commissioners_]. Jefferson does not come. Mr. Laurens, I am told, intends to return home; and I cannot conceive (_entre nous_) what he is about. Mr. Adams thinks his presence is wanting in Holland. I thought I had better give you these intelligences.

Not a word from you since we parted in Virginia; but I am a good-natured man, and will not get tired to speak to a deaf man. Adieu.

Most affectionately,
Your for ever devoted friend,
La Fayette.

To Lieutenant-Colonel
Alexander Hamilton.

MORRIS TO HAMILTON.

Office of Finance, July 2, 1782.

Sir:

I yesterday received your letter of the seventeenth of June, and am very happy to find you determined to accept the office I had the pleasure of offering to you. I inclose the Commission, Instructions, etc., together with a Bond for performance of the duties, which I must request you to fill up, execute with some sufficient security, and transmit.

The complaint you make of the system of taxation in New-York, might, I believe, very justly be extended; for, though it may be more defective in some than in others, it is, I fear, very far from perfect in any. I had already heard that no part of the taxes were appropriated to Continental purposes; but I expect that the Legislature will, when they meet, make such appropriation, as well as lay new, and, I hope, productive taxes, for the purposes of paying what may remain of their quota. It gives me a singular pleasure to find, that you have yourself pointed out one of the principal objects of your appointment. You will find that it is specified in the inclosure of the fifteenth of April. I do not conceive that any interview will be necessary, though I shall always be happy to see you, when your leisure and convenience will admit. In the mean time, I must request you to exert your talents in forwarding with your Legislature, the views of Congress. Your former situation in the army, the present situation of that very army, your connections in the State, your perfect knowledge of men and measures, and the abilities which heaven has blessed you with, will give you a fine opportunity to forward the public service, by convincing the Legislature of the necessity of copious supplies, and by convincing all who have claims on the justice of Congress, that those claims exist only by that hard necessity which arises from the negligence of the States.

When to this, you shall superadd the conviction that what remains of the war, being only a war of finance, solid arrangements of finance must necessarily terminate favorably, not only to our hopes, but even to our wishes; then, sir, the Governments will be disposed to lay, and the people to bear, those burthens which are necessary; and then the utility of your office, and of the officer, will be as manifest to others as at present to me.

With perfect respect,
Your most obedient
And humble servant,
Robert Morris.

Alexander Hamilton, Esq.,
Receiver of Taxes for New-York.

HAMILTON TO MORRIS.

Albany, July 13, 1782.

Sir:

I have this moment received your letter of the second inst., and as the post will set out on its return in half an hour, I have little more than time to acknowledge the receipt of it.

I shall, to-morrow morning, commence a journey to Poughkeepsie, where the Legislature are assembled; and I will endeavor, by every step in my power, to second your views; though, I am sorry to add, without very sanguine expectations. I think it probable the Legislature will do something: but whatever momentary effort they may make, till the entire change of their present system, very little will be done. To effect this, mountains of prejudice and particular interest are to be levelled. For my own part, considering the late serious misfortune of our ally, the spirit of reformation, of wisdom, and of unanimity, which seems to have succeeded to that of blunder, perverseness, and dissension in the British Government, and the universal reluctance of these States to do what is right, I cannot help viewing our situation as critical: and I feel it the duty of every citizen to exert his faculties to the utmost to support the measures, especially those solid arrangements of finance on which our safety depends.

I will, by next post, forward you the Bond executed with proper sureties.

It is not in the spirit of compliment, but of sincerity, I assure you, that the opinion I entertain of him who presides in the department, was not one of the smallest motives to my acceptance of the office; nor will that esteem and confidence which make me now sensibly feel the obliging expressions of your letter, fail to have a great share in influencing my future exertions.

I have the honor to be,
With perfect esteem and respect,
Your obedient servant,
A. Hamilton.

To Robert Morris, Esq.

HAMILTON TO GOV. CLINTON.

Poughkeepsie, July 16, 1782.

Sir:

I have the honor to inclose your Excellency the copy of a warrant from the Honorable Robert Morris, Esq., Superintendent of the Finances of the United States; by which you will perceive that, agreeably to the Resolution of Congress of the second of November last, he has appointed me Receiver of the Continental taxes for this State. I am therefore to request that the Legislature will be pleased to vest in me the authority required by that Resolution.

It is a part of my duty to explain to the Legislature, from time to time, the views of the Superintendent of Finance, in pursuance of the orders of Congress, that they may be the better enabled to judge of the measures most proper to be adopted for an effectual co-operation. For this purpose, I pray your Excellency to impart my request, that I may have the honor of a conference with a Committee of the two Houses, at such time and place as they may find convenient.

I have the honor to be,
With perfect respect and esteem,
Your Excellency’s
Most obedient servant,
A. Hamilton.

To his Excellency Governor Clinton.

HAMILTON TO MORRIS.

Poughkeepsie, May 22, 1782.

Sir:

Agreeably to my letter to you from Albany, I came to this place, and had an interview with a Committee of the Legislature, in which I urged the several matters contained in your instructions. I strongly represented the necessity of solid arrangements of finance; and, by way of argument, pointed out all the defects of the present system. I found every man convinced that something was wrong, but few that were willing to recognize the mischief when defined, and consent to the proper remedy. The quantum of taxes already imposed is so great as to make it useless to impose any others to a considerable amount. A bill has, however, passed both Houses, payable in specie, bank notes, or your notes, for eighteen thousand pounds. It is at present appropriated to your order; but I doubt whether some subsequent arrangement will not take place for a different appropriation. The Commander-in-Chief has applied for a quantity of forage, which the Legislature is devising the means of furnishing; and I fear it will finish by diverting the eighteen thousand pounds to that purpose. I have hitherto been able to prevent this; but as it is of indispensable importance to me to leave this place immediately, to prepare for my examination, for which I have pledged myself the ensuing term, which is at hand, it is possible, after I have left it, contrary ideas will prevail. Efforts have been made to introduce a species of negotiable certificates, which I have strenuously opposed. It has not yet taken place; but I am not clear how the matter will terminate.

Should the bill for the eighteen thousand pounds go out in its present form, I cannot hope that it will produce in the treasury above half the sum; such are the vices of our present mode of collection.

A bill has also passed the Assembly for collecting arrearages of taxes, payable in specie, bank notes, your notes; old Continental emissions at one hundred and twenty-eight for one, and a species of certificates issued by the State for the purchase of horses. This is now before the Senate. The arrearages are very large.

Both Houses have unanimously passed a set of resolutions, to be transmitted to Congress and the several States, proposing a Convention of the States, to enlarge the powers of Congress and vest them with funds. I think this a very eligible step, though I doubt of the concurrence of the other States; but I am certain, without it, they never will be brought to co-operate in any reasonable or effectual plan. Urge reforms, or exertions, and the answer constantly is, What avails it for one State to make them without the concert of the others? It is in vain to expose the futility of this reasoning: it is founded in all those passions which have the strongest influence on the human mind.

The Legislature have also appointed, at my instance, a committee to devise, in its recess, a more effectual system of taxation, and to communicate with me on this subject. A good deal will depend on the success of this attempt. Convinced of the absurdity of multiplying taxes in the present mode, where, in effect, the payment is voluntary, and the money received exhausted in the collection, I have labored chiefly to instil the necessity of a change in the plan; and, though not so rapidly as the exigency of public affairs requires, truth seems to be making some progress.

There is no other appropriation to the use of Congress than of the eighteen thousand pounds.

I shall, as soon as possible, give you a full and just view of the situation and temper of this State. This cannot be till after my intended examination: that over, I shall lay myself out in every way that can promote your views and the public good.

I am informed you have an appointment to make of a Commissioner of Accounts for this State. Permit me to suggest the expediency of choosing a citizen of the State; a man who, to the qualifications requisite for the execution of the office, adds an influence in its affairs. I need not particularize the reasons of this suggestion. In my next I will also take the liberty to mention some characters.

I omitted mentioning that the two Houses have also passed a bill, authorizing Congress to adjust the quotas of the States on equitable principles, agreeably to your recommendation.

I have the honor to be,
With sincere attachment and respect,
Sir, your most obedient servant,
A. Hamilton.

To the Hon. Robert Morris, Esq.

HAMILTON TO COLONEL HAY.

Albany, August 3, 1782.

Dear Sir:

Mr. Morris, some time since, in a circular letter to the States, among other things, requested to have an account of all the money, provisions, transportations, etc., furnished by this State to the United States, since the eighteenth of March, seventeen hundred and eighty.

I have been very happy to hear, that this business has been intrusted to your hands: for I am sure, feeling its importance, you will give it all the dispatch in your power.

I have written to the Governor on the subject; but, lest other occupations should delay his attention to it, I must request you to inform me, precisely, what part of the matter has been intrusted to your management, and what progress you have been able to make.

I shall also thank you to send me the amount of any certificates, or paper money in any shape, which, through your office, have passed into circulation, distinguishing the different species.

You will do me a favor by letting me hear from you as soon as possible.

I am, with sincere esteem,
Your obedient servant,
A. Hamilton.

P. S. I must still trouble you with an additional request, which is, that you let me know, as exactly as possible, the gross product of each supply-bill in your department in specie value, and the amount of all expenses on each. This I want, with a view to the subjects we have been speaking of.

A. H.

HAMILTON TO GOVERNOR CLINTON.

Albany, August 8, 1782.

Sir:

I have lately received a letter from the Superintendent of Finance, inclosing a copy of a circular letter from him to the several States, dated twenty-fifth July, ’81, in which he requests information on the following important points.

“What supplies, of every kind, money, provisions, forage, transportation, etc., have been furnished by this State to the United States, since the eighteenth of March, 1780.”

“The amount of the money in the treasury: the sums expected to be there; the times they will probably be brought in; the appropriations.”

“The amount of the different paper currencies in the State; the probable increase, or decrease, of each; and the respective rates of depreciation.”

“The Acts passed since the eighteenth of March, 1780, for raising taxes, furnishing supplies, etc.; the manner they have been executed; the time necessary for them to operate; the consequences of their operation; the policy of the State relative to laying, assessing, levying, and collecting taxes.”

In his letter, which is _circular_, to the Receivers, he says the answers he has received to these inquiries are few and short of the object; and he therefore urges me to take the most speedy and effectual means, in my power, to enable him to form a proper judgment on such of the subjects referred to, as the actual state of things renders it important to know.

In compliance with this, I request the favor of your Excellency to inform me, what steps have been taken on the several heads of which the above is an abstract: and what progress has been made in the business; particularly with respect to the first article. I shall also be much obliged to you to direct Mr. Holt to furnish me, without delay, with the Acts mentioned in the inclosed list.

Your Excellency must have been too sensible of the necessity of enabling the Director of the Finances of the United States to form a just judgment of the true state of our affairs, to have omitted any measure in your power to procure the fullest information on the several matters submitted to you: and I am persuaded the business is in such a train that little will be left for me to do.

I entreat you will do me the honor to let me hear from you as soon as possible on the subject.

It would promote the public business, if you would be so good as to direct Mr. Banker to supply me with such information as I might call upon him for. He is very obliging, but without some authority for the purpose, there is a delicacy in calling upon him. I wrote at the same time to Mr. Holt, printer for the State, desiring him to forward me the copies of the Acts above mentioned; and telling him, that if the Governor did not make satisfaction, I would do it. These Acts were all those relative to finance and supply, from March eighteenth, 1780, to this time.

With perfect respect,
I am your Excellency’s
Most obedient servant,
A. Hamilton.

To His Excellency Governor Clinton.

HAMILTON TO THE COUNTY TREASURERS.

Albany, August 5th, 1782.

Sir:

It will be of great utility to the State, and essential to the execution of my instructions from the Superintendent of Finance, that I should be able to ascertain, as speedily as possible, the expense attending the collection of taxes within this State. In order to this, I shall be much obliged to you to send me without delay an account of what you have received in your county, since the beginning of the year ’80 to this time, as well for the taxes laid for county purposes, as for those imposed by the Legislature; and of the expenses of every kind attending the collection; those of the supervisors, assessors, the allowance to the collectors and to yourself.

When I assure you I want this information for an important purpose, I doubt not you will forward it to me as speedily as it can be prepared, and with as much accuracy as circumstances will permit; by doing which, you will serve the public and oblige, Sir,

Your most obedient servant,
A. Hamilton,
Receiver of C. S. for the State of N. Y.

HAMILTON TO MORRIS.

August 13, 1782.

Dear Sir:

The speculation of evils, from the claims of Great Britain, gives way to the pressure of inconveniences actually suffered; and we required the event which has lately happened, the recognition of our independence by the Dutch, to give a new spring to the public hopes and the public passions. This has had a good effect. And if the Legislature can be brought to adopt a wise plan for its finances, we may put the people in better humor, and give a more regular and durable movement to the machine. The people of this State, as far as my observation goes, have as much firmness in their make, and as much submissiveness to Government, as those of any part of the Union.

It remains for me to give you an explicit opinion of what it is practicable for this State to do. Even with a judicious plan of taxation, I do not think the State can afford, or the people will bear to pay, more than seventy or eighty thousand pounds a year. In its entire and flourishing state, according to my mode of calculating, it could not have exceeded two hundred and thirty or forty thousand pounds; and, reduced as it is, with the wheels of circulation so exceedingly clogged for want of commerce and a sufficient medium, more than I have said cannot be expected. Passed experience will not authorize a more flattering conclusion.