Governor George Clinton officially commissions Alexander Hamilton and four others as New York's delegates to the United States Congress, granting them authority to represent the state from their appointment until November 1788, with a maximum term of one year. The letter formalizes their nomination and appointment by the state legislature.
John Fitch informs Alexander Hamilton of his development of a steam-powered boat and requests Hamilton's support for a petition to Congress seeking financial assistance. Fitch argues that his invention could revolutionize water transportation on Western waters and compares his request to previous government rewards for technological improvements. He believes his project will increase the value of Western lands and urges Hamilton to endorse his petition.
Alexander Hamilton writes to John Barker Church on December 6, 1787, mentioning that he has sent a brief and hurried note to Angelica Church. The letter primarily serves as a brief communication between Hamilton and the Church family during the post-Revolutionary period.
Alexander Hamilton writes to Angelica Schuyler Church expressing gratitude for her recent letter and sharing a playful, affectionate tone that likens their correspondence to that of lovers. He updates her on Kitty Livingston’s romantic situation, noting her near marriage to a devoted older widower that ultimately did not come to fruition. Hamilton blends personal news with a lighthearted, poetic style to convey his sentiments.
Ezekiel Forman requests Alexander Hamilton to confirm whether legal proceedings against Mr. Livingston were properly initiated and if any additional actions are needed to continue the lawsuit. He asks Hamilton to review the documents left with him, including the sheriff's accounts, to determine if they provide sufficient authority to proceed with the case.
Alexander Hamilton addresses William Neilson regarding the legal case of Hayton versus van Kleeck, which Neilson entrusted to him. Hamilton requests that Neilson manage the payment of his legal costs associated with the case. The letter reflects Hamilton's involvement in legal matters and his reliance on Neilson for financial arrangements.
Alexander Hamilton defends his authorship of a published critique targeting a high-ranking official's self-serving actions detrimental to the American Union. He rejects accusations of anonymity, stating he provided his name to the printer for disclosure to the governor's representatives. Hamilton argues his publication is an honorable effort to expose political corruption rather than a baseless attack.
David Humphreys informs Alexander Hamilton about a politically charged letter circulating in Connecticut, likely produced locally and embraced by Loyalists. Humphreys discusses efforts to trace its origin and suggests the letter may have been written to gauge public apathy toward government. He also notes attempts by Federalist supporters to use the letter to alarm Anti-Federalists into accepting the Constitutional Convention's outcomes.
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.
Alexander Hamilton writes to Rufus King in 1787 seeking an update on the progress and anticipated completion of King's plans, which Hamilton has heard may have recently improved. Hamilton mentions his temporary absence due to legal duties but requests a prompt reply regarding the timeline.