[ Philadelphia, December 6, 1778 . On December 19, 1778, Hamilton wrote to von Steuben : “I snatch a hasty moment My Dear Baron to acknowledge the receipt of yr.…
Baron von Steuben informs Alexander Hamilton that he has presented Hamilton's letter to a Mr. J, who supports advancing Steuben's requests to Congress without delay, specifically regarding the appointment of a Secretary or Minister of War. Steuben asks Hamilton to send the memorandum quickly so he can review it before traveling to Philadelphia and seeks Hamilton's opinion on the political situation. He also notes that the Marquis has avoided discussing the matter to prevent causing him annoyance.
Baron von Steuben appeals to Alexander Hamilton to support his claim for recognition and fulfillment of a contract made with the United States before his military service, which he argues the government has only partially honored. He emphasizes the contract’s validity as agreed upon by prominent officials and insists that failure to honor it threatens both his honor and financial well-being. Von Steuben seeks Hamilton’s advocacy to secure justice and prevent accusations of fraud against him.
Baron von Steuben requests Alexander Hamilton to present a letter from Mr. R. Petters as clear evidence supporting Steuben's claim to compensation based on a contract made when entering U.S. service after the war. He refers to previous committees, including Hamilton's, that have considered this claim and asks Hamilton, as a current congressman, to share Petters' report with the committee.