Alexander Hamilton was an American military officer, statesman, and Founding Father who served as the first U.S. secretary of the treasury from 1789 to 1795 under the presidency of George Washington. He also founded America's first political party, the Federalist Party, in 1791.
George Washington informs Alexander Hamilton of a sudden crisis in the Continental Army caused by rumors of mutiny and dissatisfaction over unpaid debts. He describes how a mysterious visitor from Philadelphia spreads reports of potential military unrest and support from public creditors to pressure Congress for justice. Washington expresses concern over these developments and their uncertain outcome.
George Clinton informs Alexander Hamilton that he has sent the Attorney General to Philadelphia to share sensitive information in person rather than by letter. He directs Hamilton to consult Mr. Benson for detailed particulars. Clinton also acknowledges receipt of Hamilton's recent correspondence and promises to forward an enclosed letter securely.
Robert Morris advises Alexander Hamilton that establishing a marine department requires appointing a dedicated Minister of Marine to develop actionable plans, a task Morris feels unable to undertake due to time constraints. He emphasizes reducing expenditures as revenue cannot increase and mentions an upcoming proposal to Congress regarding the coinage issue.
George Washington acknowledges Alexander Hamilton's request for his views on the military organization after the war. He asks for additional time to carefully consider the complex issues involved. Washington promises to provide a thorough response as soon as possible.
George Washington informs Alexander Hamilton about his efforts to arrange the release of prisoners following Congress's resolution, while expressing concern that prematurely releasing them risks weakening American leverage before the peace treaty is finalized. He notes that the army believes the war has effectively ended, complicating efforts to maintain troop discipline. Washington questions the prudence of Congress's directive but complies due to financial pressures.
George Washington writes to Alexander Hamilton from Newburgh in May 1783, apologizing for the delay in sending his thoughts on a peace establishment. He hopes his enclosed ideas will be helpful and satisfactory. Washington expresses his dedication to the task and his respect for Hamilton.
Richard Soderstrom writes to Alexander Hamilton in 1783 requesting his legal representation in a lawsuit against James Jarvis. Soderstrom seeks Hamilton’s expertise to act as his attorney in the case. The letter reflects the ongoing legal disputes in post-Revolutionary America.
John Chaloner acknowledges receipt of Alexander Hamilton's letter and promises to honor Hamilton's draft related to Mr. Carter's account. He mentions uncertainty about procuring chintz for Mrs. Dunkin and sends greetings to Hamilton's family and associates. Chaloner commits to updating Hamilton on their mutual friends' travels as information becomes available.
Robert R. Livingston expresses disappointment that Alexander Hamilton did not visit Clermont and discusses political and financial concerns, including a failed opportunity for an allowance and commission. He laments the prevailing spirit of persecution in New York, attributing it to personal vendettas and selfish interests rather than patriotic motives. Livingston fears these divisions will harm the state's wealth, commerce, and future peace.
John Chaloner informs Alexander Hamilton about an upcoming election for the Bank's directors and a proposal to increase the capital stock by offering one thousand new shares at five hundred dollars each. He mentions awaiting correspondence from mutual acquaintances and conveys greetings from his family to Hamilton and other notable families.
Thomas Mifflin informs Alexander Hamilton that Congress has received Hamilton's letter but cannot address its important subject immediately due to the attendance of only seven states. Mifflin promises to send an authenticated copy of the ratified Treaty once Congress authorizes him. He closes with respectful regards.
John Chaloner informs Alexander Hamilton that to manage John Carter’s shares, Hamilton must provide a properly attested Power of Attorney authorizing someone to receive dividends and vote on Carter’s behalf. Chaloner notes he previously sent this information and Hamilton’s letters to Albany, which Hamilton may not have received. He resends the documents as a duplicate for Hamilton’s attention.
John Chaloner informs Alexander Hamilton that the stockholders of the New Bank have decided to withdraw their petition for a charter, effectively halting the bank's establishment. He requests Hamilton to provide instructions regarding the funds he subscribed on behalf of Mr. Church for this purpose.
John Chaloner informs Alexander Hamilton about handling commissions related to Mr. Church's property and confirms receipt of a package for Mrs. Hamilton to be sent to New York. He reports concerns over the rapid export of specie threatening the stability of banks and mentions a loan request by the Assembly to the Bank for 200,000 pounds, intended to be secured by mortgages and used to pay taxes from 1782 and 1783.
William Seton informs Alexander Hamilton about his interactions with the Bank of North America's leadership and requests regular updates on the Bank of New York's charter status. He explains that the Bank of North America is reluctant to meet him due to internal confusion and pressure from opposition related to the new bank. Seton seeks Hamilton's assistance in staying well-informed to address the situation confidently.
John Barker Church informs Alexander Hamilton of his recent arrival in Paris and potential extended stay due to a tobacco supply treaty negotiation with the Farmers General. He plans to spend the winter in Europe before returning to America in May to reunite with Hamilton and his wife. Church defers detailed political updates to the Marquis de Lafayette and promises further correspondence through Wadsworth.
Clement Richard informs Alexander Hamilton about a legal dispute with Gommes and agrees to donate half of any damages awarded to the New York City poorhouse. He seeks Hamilton's advice or support regarding the case. The letter reflects concerns about justice and charitable responsibility in post-Revolutionary New York.
Matthew Visscher informs Alexander Hamilton about legal judgments entered against Joshua de St. Croix and James Leonard. He provides details relevant to ongoing legal or financial matters involving these individuals. The letter serves to update Hamilton on the status of these cases in 1784.
Gouverneur Morris writes to Alexander Hamilton expressing regret for delayed correspondence and discusses the impracticality of a proposed coalition between Hamilton’s bank and the national bank, warning of potential cash shortages. He advises caution against forced paper money by the legislature and affirms his continued esteem and friendship.
Ezekiel Forman requests Alexander Hamilton to provide details about a New York legislative act addressing debts owed to residents of Hamilton's state whose estates have been forfeited. Forman seeks clarification on how this law affects such financial obligations. The inquiry reflects post-Revolutionary War concerns over property and debt settlements between states.
John Chaloner informs Alexander Hamilton of several financial drafts totaling 426 pounds 11 shillings 8 pence and discusses purchasing bank stock, noting a preference to buy below par but considering buying at par due to lack of offers. He requests Hamilton to send an obligation related to Mr. Tracey and mentions Mr. Macarty will provide instructions on certain bills payable to him.
John Barker Church informs Alexander Hamilton of recent correspondence and expresses hope that political violence in New York will subside in favor of reason. He declines involvement in a bank unless it is firmly established and mentions sending a letter-copying machine to Hamilton. Church also updates on mutual acquaintances and plans to return to America the following spring.
Ezekiel Forman requests Alexander Hamilton to write to Wade and John Philips of Philadelphia, demanding payment on their bond. Forman references Hamilton's earlier letters from August and September 1784 as context for this financial matter.
Marquis de Lafayette expresses deep gratitude for the warm reception in Boston and outlines his travel plans to visit Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Virginia before joining Congress. He reflects on his commitment to America and requests that Congress officially recognize his ongoing support and information-sharing as a patriotic service without formal public office. Lafayette hopes to spend more time with Alexander Hamilton and friends in New York soon.