Letter
Alexander Hamilton urges Jeremiah Olney to secure Rhode Island's ratification of the new federal Constitution before the government convenes, emphasizing its importance to the Union and especially the Northern states. He suggests persuading key opponents like Mr. Hazard and appeals to the governor's integrity to support the cause. Hamilton requests updates on prospects and offers assistance from New York to promote ratification.
Letter
George Washington responds to Alexander Hamilton with gratitude for his candid communication, expressing his preference for frank and friendly discourse. He explains his deliberate silence on rumors about his potential candidacy for office, fearing that discussing it might appear improper or self-promoting. Washington reveals his hope that electors might choose another candidate to spare him the difficult position of being compelled to accept a nomination.
Letter
Alexander Hamilton urges George Washington to accept a public office despite his reservations, arguing that the country's unanimous desire and the political crisis necessitate his involvement in government. Hamilton acknowledges Washington's initial intent to retire but insists that duty now compels him to participate in executing the new government. He also references a personal matter involving a watch linked to a British soldier at York Town.
Letter
Alexander Hamilton advises Nathaniel Chipman that Vermont's accession to the new government should avoid demanding amendments, especially regarding taxation, as such changes would likely be rejected by influential national leaders. He emphasizes that full taxation power is essential for an effective government and urges patience, trusting that circumstances will eventually favor Vermont's inclusion.
Letter
Callohill Minnes writes to Alexander Hamilton in 1788 requesting his intervention to prevent Congress from passing any resolution that would block the settlement of Colonel William Aylett’s two public accounts as deputy commissary general. Minnes seeks Hamilton’s support to ensure these financial matters are resolved.
Letter
Jeremiah Olney informs Alexander Hamilton that Mr. H will not attend Congress until after the October session of the General Assembly, as he must fulfill his role as a representative for Charleston. Olney explains that a state law requires delegates to have special orders from the Assembly to take their seats, preventing timely representation from the state. He expresses concern that Mr. A will remain without a colleague in Congress for some time.
Letter
Alexander Hamilton petitions Chief Justice Richard Morris in 1788 regarding matters related to the estate of Philip Livingston. He seeks legal or administrative action concerning the estate, reflecting ongoing post-Revolutionary War property and inheritance issues. The letter indicates Hamilton's involvement in managing prominent New York families' affairs.
Letter
Elbridge Gerry responds to Alexander Hamilton's request for clarification on Baron de Steuben’s claims, explaining the difficulty of precise details due to the time elapsed since Yorktown. Gerry recalls the army’s initial disorder and the relief brought by de Steuben’s arrival, noting the existing tensions among American officers regarding foreign appointments and rank disputes.
Letter
Alexander Hamilton, serving on a committee reviewing Baron De Steuben’s application to Congress, requests Elbridge Gerry’s clarification regarding a report from a prior committee that may complicate the case. Hamilton encloses the report and seeks Gerry’s insights to better understand the situation.
Letter
Nathaniel Chipman informs Alexander Hamilton that Vermont's leadership generally supports joining the federal confederacy under the proposed terms and sees the current moment as favorable for accession. He discusses the state's willingness to accept federal powers without insisting on amendments and notes that exemption from war expenses would help unify Vermont citizens. Chipman requests Hamilton's suggestions to aid Vermont's decision before the upcoming assembly session.
Letter
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.
Letter
Alexander Hamilton discusses the ongoing efforts to secure ratification of the U.S. Constitution, proposing a conditional acceptance allowing for future amendments within a set timeframe. He seeks James Madison's opinion on this approach and expresses confidence that Congress will recommend amendments to address concerns and ultimately unify opposition. Hamilton believes this strategy will lead to broader acceptance and stability for the new government.
Letter
Alexander Hamilton informs William Duer about the political and financial situation in New York during the ratification of the Constitution. He expects Duer to relay this information to James Madison. The letter reflects Hamilton's active role in coordinating Federalist efforts.
Letter
John H. Kelly writes to Alexander Hamilton in 1788 from Tinmouth, Vermont, likely addressing matters related to the ongoing political developments of the time. The letter accompanies a communication from Nathaniel Chipman, suggesting coordinated correspondence. Specific content of Kelly's message remains unknown due to the letter's absence.
Letter
Nathaniel Chipman writes to Alexander Hamilton seeking support for Vermont's admission to the Union under the new federal government. He explains that conflicting land claims between New York and Vermont threaten local unity and federal acceptance. Chipman urges resolution of these disputes to secure Vermont's full alignment with the federal cause.
Letter
John Sullivan informs Alexander Hamilton that he has paid Captain Roche for delivering news of New Hampshire's adoption of the new Constitution and has drawn a bill on Hamilton to cover the expenses plus additional costs for discount and postage. Sullivan confirms compliance with Hamilton's instructions and expresses confidence that the bill will be honored.
Letter
Alexander Hamilton writes to James Madison expressing concern over proposed amendments to the Constitution, particularly regarding taxation powers, fearing they may weaken the system. He describes ongoing debates about conditions for amendments and notes a recent violent clash in Albany between antifederalists and federalists. Hamilton remains cautiously hopeful about the outcome despite political tensions.
Letter
Alexander Hamilton writes to James Madison expressing frustration over the uncertain political situation and the limited progress in debates about taxation. He notes that some leaders seem ready to reconsider their positions, but the main opponent remains committed to opposing the Federalist cause. Hamilton anticipates shifting the discussion to new issues soon.
Letter
James Madison informs Alexander Hamilton of the final outcome of their constitutional convention debates and mentions the rejection of a minority address by its own supporters. He notes the positive resolution of the matter and plans to provide more details upon traveling to New York. Madison also acknowledges recent communications from New Hampshire and Hamilton.
Letter
James Madison informs Alexander Hamilton that the Convention has ended with the ratification of the Constitution, but expresses concern over objectionable amendments, especially one limiting direct taxes. Madison suspects opponents of the Constitution will actively seek to undermine it through legislative means. He warns Hamilton to be alert to efforts aimed at regaining lost liberties by constitutional means.