Professional Documents
Culture Documents
HISTORY
OF THE
REPUBLIC
OF THE
ALEXANDER HAMILTON
or niS COTEMPORARIES.
BY
JOHN
C.
HAMILTON
n.
VOLUME
"
Neque enim
quam
dc. de Eepuh.
D.
Checke<f
May
i9ld
D.
In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for the Southern District
New
York.
PEEFACE
The
first
volume of
this
criticised
with some
severity, as
making claims
for
My
and vindictive
sacrilegious
it
towards Washington,
When
country, or not
interests of the
demanded by
justice,
charge
may
be
deemed
to
have some
my
by Washington,
command.
ington.
much
as regards
Wash-
As
volume
there
and,
may be more of this sort of sacrilege in it may be, in the succeeding volumes
it
the present
I think
it
letters
signed by him,
in
natural and
common
such cases, to
There
And
since existing
letters in the
number of
iv
PREFACE.
much
and the play and movein this
manner
Hamilton beyond
them
to
Hamilton as
The
letters so ascribed
may have
think
fit
just so
much
them
;
may
to allow
;
incontestable
and
this fact, in a
ing
If
Surely,
when Washington
^^Jirst
drawn by
his
secretary and by
upon him
secre-
by
internal
The rebuke
involve a
one, too
in eflFect
implies that
a thing
quite
He
ported the disclaimer by attributing a part of them, upon undeniable evidence, to Hamilton.
As
to detraction
will not
I hope
it
my own
my
eminent man.
PEEFAOE.
not alleged against me, and cannot be.
part,
V
If
it is
implied on
my
how
much more
is it
name depends
in
name
to.
This
is
detraction
is
from Washington
to assert that
de-
by assigning
to others
paper that he wrote, the great volume of his glory would be diminished or impaired in any measurable degree.
derived, in whole or in part, from such a source.
His glory
It
is
is
not
the result
his grave
wisdom
his justice
his for-
titude
battle
honor
sacrifice
his
imperturbable courage
his
dauntless
bravery in
self-
fame, sacred
of his entire
self,
And
in connection with
may
noble qualities, his modesty, which never claimed any thing as his
own
soul,
by universal consent
jealousy,
and
his elevation of
envy of comto
petitors,
regardless of their
and
indifferent
their
intrigues.
His glory
letters
flows,
and
His
add only
and purpose, the operation of one or more of his great attributes, or the aspirations of his settled and established Their composition was necessarily not always his dispositions. own, which often and generally happens with commanders on a
by
their intent
and with those who are engrossed with and when it was the highest concerns of civil administration
large field of operations,
;
Vi
his own, its merit
PREFACE.
was rather in the enunciation of just thoughts
in the skill or force with
which he exhib-
He
acquired,
as
by much
his
pracas his
was
much
sight
own
first
by those who
it,
though
it
may be
recognized more
can be described.
it
by rules
was the
It
as
much
ease as
had dignity
but
it
that in a large
number
shown, and yet as unaffected as his own style, but genelettered or scholarlike.
rally
more
In respect to
may may
of
them
by him,
of the filling
in,
the drapery, the coloring, the light and shade, and the accessory
parts, brought in to heighten
important,
may
who were
is
in his
or otherwise, to
in
Such a supposition
in perfect
no degree
his
and
is
harmony with
whole
He
self-conceit,
from his
when he wanted
it,
him
War
and afterwards.
member
eighty,
of the
Board of War,
elected,
in
when he was
PREFACE,
Quarter Master General.
the peace.
vii
This arduous
office
he
to
In ninety, he was appointed by Washington sole Commissioner and in ninety-one, Post Mastreat with the Northern Indians
;
ter General.
was advanced
From
he was preferred by Washington to be Secretary of State, and remained until the year eighteen hundred at the
this station to the
head of that department. This faithful, much honored public servant, alluding
observations of an intelligent foreigner, remarks
"
In forming his judgment of Washington's writings, he had He has assumed, which is unfounded in not the necessary data. bearing Washington's signature (and papers fact, that the puUic
of his private writings he could have seen very few) are of his own I undertake to affirm, that scarcely any, or a very composition. small
may
lonw ago as the campaign of seventeen hundred and seventyseven, when I witnessed the incessant labors of Hamilton, and of
the military Secretary
Harrison
might say to hnoiv, lic letters, in which I have reason to believe, I were for the most expressions, the as well that the conceptions, as
part their own.
If the original draughts had been Washington's,
from
all
other handwriting
the reserved that I ever saw) would have appeared in the letters or in I refer here to all his official letters, during the draughts.
rough
whole time of
his
command
in the Revolutionary
War."
The
firmation.
Further light
is
thrown upon
this subject
by the
La
Timothy Pickering
to William Coleman.
Salem, Aug.
8,
1826.
CONTENTS OY VOLUME
CHAPTER XX.
Sufferings of the
11.
Island
to
British
MTites
Washington as
of
by Board
Washing-
War Embarkation
for
New York
for
Savannah
for
of "Virginia
Its
Hamilton
siege
Washington
and capitulation
Hamilton
Washington to Bowdoin
La Fayette
to
in Paris
La Luzerne
Hamilton Washington, urging appointment committee HeadFrance the embassy quarters Hamilton contemplated as Secretary of the Canadas Letter of Washington as Hamilton Committee of Co-operation Increase of army Washington, by Hamilton, Reed GatesHamilton Washington Reed Aid from Pennsyl Revolt Connecticut troops vania Resources of enemy and of WashWashington Hamilton Knyphausen Hamilton Incursion Co-operation French succors on the coast HamCommittee ington Washington RochamCommittee Hamilton Washington Hamilton's instrumentality Probean and De Ternay Chastellux 38 jected attack upon New York Hamilton publishes an explanation.
for
to
acquisition
to
to
for
to
allies
of
of
to
for
to
of
ilton for
to
for
to
as to
CHAPTER
Greene
to
for
to
XXI.
Greene
Quartermaster's Department Hamilton's advice Dissatisfaction of CongressWashington interposes Hamilton HamarmyView of foreign Committee Washino-ton
Washington as
to
to
as to
affairs
X
ilton to
CONTENTS OF VOLUME
Biddle as to impressments
II.
York
His remarks as
to conquest of the
Interview of Washington with Rochambeau at Hartford Ill-treatment of Arnold Correspondence of Eeed with Washington West Point Bauman Hamilton Capture of Andre Treason Arnold His and pursuit Hamilton to WashingtonHamilton Greene Hamilton Laurens Trial of Andre His executionAndre
ington to
De Guichen
to
of
flight
to
Washington.
..........
to
to
74
CHAPTER
Financial necessities
XXII.
Breach of public faithNew emissionEllsworth to Specific supplies Impotence of Congress Necessity of a Government Conventions of States Non-concurrence of Virginia Energetic counsels of Massachusetts Hamilton for Washington to Bowdoin Hamilton's system Hamilton's important to Duane Defects of confederation Single executive Constitution of armyUrges a general convention OutUne of a new Government Recommends SchuyTrumbull
political
letter
officers
ler,
armyHalf-pay A foreign loanA tax kind A national bankAppeals the peopleSchuyler as invigoration of GovernmentPlan of a Dictator Policy of New York Proposal of
Recruiting the
to
to
Madison
113
CHAPTER
Hostilities in
XXIII.
South Carolina Hamilton for Washington to Gates Lee and Selection of Gates by CongressInteresting of Sullivan Cabal Greene to Washington La Luzerne to Vergennes Gates in comGates
letter
mand
don
of the Southern
army
Cornwallis advancesBattle of CamdenDefeat and flight of Gates Gallantry and death of De Kalb Otho H. Williams to Hamilton
Hamilton
to
for the
Hamilton Washington Congress Policy as to defence of the South Duane to Washington Reform of army Comments written by Hamilton He appointment of Greene Southern army Hamilton Washington Greene Hamilton Sears A Government of more power A tax kind Foreign loan A bank Hamilton Duane Harrison to Hamilton The cabal Hamilton Washington La FayPlan of attack upon New York Hamilton Wasliington, asking a commandLa Fayette recommends Hamilton as Adjutant-general La Fayette urges Hamilton as Envoy to France Laurens Washington
war
to
ui'ges
to
for
to
to
in
to
for
to
ette
to
to
Mamage
of Hamilton
145
CONTENTS OF VOLUME
CHAPTER XXIV.
Revolt of Pennsylvania and Jersey lines
for
II.
xi
Hamilton Washington Howe Projects a plan of supplies Draws Laurens Hamilton Washington Franklin Hamilton gradation of punishments Proposed attack on New York Hamilton Washington to Rochambeau British army South Carolina Davie and Graham at MecklenburgMarion and Clark Ferguson encamps on King's Mountain Pursuit by Americans Victory of King's Mountain CornwaUis retreats Greene takes command His to Hamilton Condition of the South His wise policy Battle of Cowpens Colonels Washington and Howard Greene hastens Virginia Jefferson (Jovernor of Virginia Pendleton charges him with cowardice Expedition of Arnold Capture of Richmond conduct His to Washington
to
in-
for
to
for
in
letter
to
Jefferson's
letter
.
Reply
for
Washington by Hamilton.
171
CHAPTER XXV.
Difference between Washington and Hamilton
Interesting comment of Dewitt Hamilton and French Interposition of La Fayette Hamilton Washington Rochambeau Hamilton draws La Fayette Hamilton Washington Congress Battle Guilford Court House Hamilton bold policy of Greene La Fayette from Elk Hamilton Hamilton Washington Greene Private of Hamilton Greene Hamilton Washington La Fayette Hamilton from the Harrison and Laurens Hamilton Hamilton asks command Reply of Washington,
reply
officers
Important
to
to
instructions for
for
of
as to
to
for
to
letter
to
for
to
retires
staff
to
196
CHAPTER XXVI.
Convention at Hartford
circular
Powers by States CongressA Census Important Black regiments commended by MadisonExecutive La Luzerne as opposition of Samuel Adams Sullivan Washington recommends Hamilton as head of treasury department Appointment of executive Conduct towards Gates Reed Gates Calumnies against Washington Rush Gates Monarchy Clamor against England Morris GatesPecuniary eml^arrassmentsFive per impost Revenue power CongressProposed repeal of Tender Hamilton Robert Morris policy Plan of national bank Comments Proposes convention of the States organize a new government Reply of Morris Bank of North America Report Congress as enlargement of powers Madison's plan of military coercion of States Hamilton's view Writes the Continentalist Powers of Congress Regulation of trade Taxes A Federative Republic 238
to
officers
to
to
officers
to
to
to
cent,
to
acts
to
as to fiscal
all
to
in
to
its
xii
CONTENTS OF VOLUME
CHAPTER XXVII.
II.
Virginia
Greene to JeffersonLee's comments Jefferson's excuse Letters of Steuben Jefferson's vindication Movements of Philips Arnold Steuben and La Fayette Advance of Cornwallis La Fayette to Hamilton Inroad of Tarleton Jefferson to Washington Resigns the government, and ture invokes aid of Morgan Richard Henry Lee proposes Washino^on as Dictator Charges against Jefferson accommodated Movements of Cornwallis La Fayette and Wayne Battle of Green Springs Hamilton repairs to army Letter to his wife Asks and obtains command of a Dattalion Letters of Colonels Meade and Smith. 255
of Jefferson
Imbecility
Steuben's circular
flies
Leo-isla-
CHAPTER XXVIII.
Cornwallis at Yorktown
Exultations
in
England
Hamilton Mission
to his wife
March
to
his wife
New LouDe
Grasse
to
Assaults by Hamilton and De Viomenil Death of ScammelVindication by Hamilton Surrender of Cornwallis Honorary
Yorktown
Its siege
Resolutions of Congi-ess
Movements
of Greene
wil'e
276
CHAPTER XXIX.
Hamilton at Albany
ilton
practice of
ilton to
Congress Letter Washington Meade Ham Reply Commences study of the law a manual the the law Murder of Huddy Retaliatory proceedings HamVisits
to
to
\vi-ites
of
sition of
tal receiver
Visits
Interview with
Legislature
Proposes
of
Clinton Letters Morris finance Hamilton Congress Letter Laui-ens Death of LaurensHamilton frames plan State taxation Letter Meade Writes address the public 316
as to elected to
to to
continental receiver
civil
Situation of countryNecessity of a loan Hamilton La Fayette Topics before Congress Pubhc domain Policy of New Jersey Maryland and Virginia Madison PendletonHints at a warProtestTerritorial controversies Requisition by Congress
De
Noailles
to to
Its
impotence
329
CONTENTS OF VOLUME
CHAPTER
Division of parties
N.ational
II.
xiii
XXXI.
'Witlier-
and State Matters before Congress spoon Clymer Rutledge Ellsworth Hamilton His career Opinions Recommended by Previous nomination as Secretary of Foreign France Schuyler's opinion of Proceedings of Envoy La Fayette Congress Hamilton confers with Legislature of Pennsylvania DisconRhode Island Report the army Hamilton's important by Hamilton, urging a national revenue Sinking fund Continental money Proceedings thereon Army memorial Hamilton's report on His a revenue be by Congress Pledges Washprovide revenue fund the debt Valuation of lands Letter army Letter mgton Clinton as policy of countiy Hamilton urges doors of Congress be opened Washington Hamilton army Armstrong's Newburgh Meeting Washington's address Confession of Gates Hamilton prepares commendatory resolution of Washington Hamilton suggests a union Washington's reply
Affairs as
to
tent of
letter
to
thereto
resolution for
to
to
collected
to
as to
to
to
to
as to
letters
of
officers
solid
Resolution
by Hamilton
for
and misrepresentations.
........
commutation of half-pay
Madison's debates
399
CHAPTER
Policy of France
XXXII.
Accession
of
Louis XVI.
Sartine
His
St.
Ministers
Maurepas
Loiais George
Germain
American Revolt and of Turgot Instructions Vergennes and DeaneBeaumarchais Recommendation acknowledge to United States of a Dictator Secret supplies Refusal Independence Stormont reclaims Answer of Vergennes Memoir to
Memoir
to Silas
of Vergennes as to
Deane
to
Louis
Proposed
Louis
to
King
of
Spain
Instructions as to treaty of
commerce
Conclusion
for
of treaties
Gerard
substituted Deane Dropped Notice ofInstructions Dissatisfaction Philadeli^hia with Gerard Reof Arthur Lee and Izard Negotiations port on terms of treaty with Great Britain Communications of Gerard Terms of treaty with Spain and with Great BritainGei-ard returns
Envoy
to United States
John Adams
to
at
to
Paris
426
CHAPTER
England
as to
XXXIII.
Adams
to treat with
to
Jay corrected Henry Laurens Minister ilisstatement Holland La Luzerne His connections Marbois La Luzerne's conference
xiv
oonte:5^ts of
volume
to his
II.
as to
with Congress
and opinions
Urging energetic measures Second conference terms appointment Conduct Adams Eejoicings as mission Disregarded by Vergennes His during his
first
to
His
for
Assured of being presented Vergennes and by Congress Mercury Checked by Vergennes Defends breach of Vermission Retort Rebuked by VergennesUrges opening of gennes Inconsiderate reply of Adams Rebuked by Vergennes, who comAdamsProceedings of Congress Franklin His Amsterdam Despatches of Jay Resolute proCongress Adams Mississippi Instructions drawn by Madison ceedings of Congress as Virginia Cession of her public Temper of Spain Change of policy Madison's Instructions Jay policy lands and proon Spain Memorial by La Luzerne as recede Injurious upon Adams and Dana Preposed mediation of Russia Urges liminary acknowledgment of Independence abandoned Instructions comcouncils of France A Adams a truce Submission
ment of his mission
at
neglect
Letter
to Lovell
to
to
his
of
plains to
letter to
as to
flies to
to
in
altered
as to Mississippi
to
to
effect
to
restrictions
to
as to
to
plural
Instructions by Madison as to treaty with Great Brit Commission to Adams revoked on resolution of MadisonAdams at the Hague France and Holland Plan of treaty with United States
mission appointed
ain
hostilities
Adams urges
his reception as
instructions limited
Invited
to
to
and
slighted at Paris
as to peace
Is received at
His
opinion of his
France
CHAPTER XXXIV.
Vergennes as
to
Dana Hamilton's
Hamilton recommends a
Congress
fisheries,
neixtral policy
fisheries
Massachusetts as to
of
Madison's view concessions by La Luzerne Instructions by Madison as the confiscated property Influence of France
policy as to Russia
as to
to to Franklin,
Despatch of
of Grenville
who
writes to
Shelburne Mission
Franklin and
Oswald Overture
their last
to
Mission
French policy
Jefferson
instructions Adams' opinions of Adams approve Jay's disapproval of instructions He proceeds Paris to Randolph Vergennes France declines mission
to to
I\Iadison
Confirming reso-
Madison
Revocation of
CONTENTS OF VOLUME
Madison's agency
II.
XV
nary
to
Oswald Commission
ica"
discussed
"The United
to
States of
Amer-
Jay's firmnessFrance interposesBoundaries adherents Adams ParisFisheriesAnnuity concluded Vergennes' rebuke Franklin's defence Fisheries Disof Vindication by American Commissioners Secret Vote of censure sustained by approval by Secretary of Foreign Comhim Hamilton's approbatory MadisonJay's opinion
Policy of Spain
in
British
^Treaty
article
treaty
Affairs
of
resolution
Jay Importance
of con-
State jealousiesHamilton's
France
^^^
CHAPTER XXXV.
Grant of half-pay opposed by opponents of Washington
Protest
in LLassachusetts
by Samuel
Adams Hamilton's
provisions for
army
His
of
CongressPublic creditVmdication
Morris Provi-
Washington to HamiltonSentiments of army Gouverneur of peace armyPrehminary Morris suspected Justice to construction Washington, as Hamilton to prisoners as to Instructions of treaty Policy as to prisoners Hamilton proposes modification of structionsWashington to Hamilton Views of army Hamilton recommends a navy, and a national coinage Writes a commentary on " Smith's Wealth of Nations Madison's financial views Hamilton's opposition Condemns arbitrary assessmentsViews of Hamilton proposes a tax Superintendent of Finance Fiscal report to Congress Assumption of State ^ebts Hamilton's report of a revenue system Rule of contribution Slaveholding and non-slave-holding States Land valuation adopted Numbers of On Hamilton's motion substituted Vote as to incorporated in plan Revenue system passes Address of slaves Clinton Advises concurMadison Hamilton's objections His rence of New York, in despite of his objections Hamilton appointed to open debate confer with Superintendent of Finance Seconds motion of invahds Pledges in Congress Rejected Reports provision the army Introduces resolution engagements Congress to allowances of land Introduces commendatory resolutions of army Proarmy
to
articles
ratified
in-
"
list
ratio
three-fifths ratio
finally
letter
to
for
for coi-ps
fulfil
then-
to
for
Government as
all
to deportation of negroes
by
xvi
CONTENTS OF VOLUME
and for
in violation of treaty
II.
British creditors,
Resolutions of Virginia
Hamilton
of national character
versy between
condemned by Congress
to Clinton in favor of
clemency
As
New York
and
thanks to Legislature.
542
CHAPTER XXXVI.
Hamilton's report on reorganizing Quarter-Master General's department
report on conduct of Indian affairs
affairs, of
His
Reports plan
of department of foreign
of confederation Exposes imperfections of Urges a federal establishment Composition of armyRule of promotion Preparatory measures as to a navyEstablishment of Land
fortifications
arsenals
pital,
Plan
of engineer corps
staff
Board
this
army
regulations
Fragment of
notes as to a navy
directing the ComHamilton's Letter of Clinton on subjectFull Indians Insult to Congress by a body reply by Hamilton^Kind policy of mutineers Hamilton's policy Irresolution of executive of Pennsylvania suppress vindicating Congress, and urging obligation Hamilton's views Invigoration of general governmutinies Resume of ment Opposite views of Madison and others Important resolutions of confederationReof the framed by Hamilton, stating quired new powers A new organization A separate executive A federal judicature Power of general taxation Of general defence General suPower perintendence of trade Conflicting provisions of those a general convention Resolutions pass general lawsProposition want of support Contemplated address by CongressLetter abandoned 579 to Washington Retires from Congress
to garrisoning her
Western posts
to
letter
to
his political
defects
articles
articles
to
for
for
THE IIISTOKY
OP THE
CHAPTER
The now
XX.
army
tions,
New York
and
to prevent the
reoccupation of Philadelphia.
were hutted, a part along the With Hudson under Heath, the residue under his immediate command at Morristown. Its rigors It was a winter of memorable severity. condition of the unprovided the from were the more felt
these views his troops
army.
ton,
" It
is
on the
first
magazines
empty and that our future prospects are so alarmThe worst consequences are to be appreingly limited. hended if some change does not speedily take place. Every information I obtain makes me fear we shall be driven to the necessity of a general forage upon the
are so
4:
THE REPUBLIC.
To do
this,
[1780.
country.
me
with an
each county
is
may
will,
must
also
you
without
fail,
give
me
a week's notice
made upon
New
you
will do,"
Hamilton wrote
for
Wash-
much tenderness
its
have
in
your prudence,
zeal, and respect for the rights of citizens. While your measures are adapted to the emergency, and you consult what you owe to the service, I am persuaded
you
we
are compelled
by
necessity
an
army, on
whom
we
should be carefuL
to manifest that
we have
own good do
by
To Royal
Hamilton
A. C. P.
to Col. Bi-oadliead, Jan. 4.
Washington
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
itself,
A
"
yet even
this
was
men
it it
when
was was
middle of January, accompanied by Hamilton, at the head of twenty-five hundred men. The latter writes
to
Washington
the
" The defence of the stone house in which enemy may attempt to defend themselves may be ob:
stinate,
it
in
them to reason." The enemy discovering his approach took refuge in this house. The communication with New York was found to be open. Thus their relief was certain and immediate. Under these circumstances the expedition returned withto bring
second attempt
was contemplated, but was not prosecuted. Incursions into New Jersey and Westchester were soon after made by Knyphausen, but of too limited effect to warrant a
detail.
ers
The settlement of a cartel for an exchange of prisonwas again attempted, though, as appears in a letter to La Luzerne written by Hamilton, Washington did " not
any sanguine hopes of success."
Carrington
Instructions
entertain
and
March.
They were
upon
;
prin" lan-
THE KEPUBLIC.
Upon
this
[1780.
manders.
basis,
way
for
some
and men
in captivity.
at Amboy, whence Hamilton wrote " that the enemy, as was supposed, had no idea of
treating on
mutual ground
that
the
commission was
broken up
in private conversation,
would be effected on admissible terms." The obstacles which arose are stated
sired result
in a letter to
The
de-
was not
attained.
the greater, as
it
appears in
little
stronger.
La Luzerne had
In allusion to
it,
Hamilton
London
"
many
similar examples.
But
it is
evident,
of
fact,
Catholic Majesty
British
am-
or both."
The
now came
into view.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
What
it
from France.
to
improve the
dis-
Ham-
that
it.
it
was
whether
inti-
mate knowledge of our resources of finance than I present possess, and without ascertaining whether our
lies
at
al-
this continent."
He
from
abroad.
depended upon,
should
money and a fleet are to be then recommend that all our disan offensive and decisive
a general draft " of men.
Every
indication,
number of
battalions, as a submis-
sion to the
to decline a
movement proposed by
in
French minister.
"
Hamilton remarked
yours.
Washington's name
affairs
My
senti-
correspond too
is
much with
The
prospect,
my
I
dear baron,
storm threatens.
But
hope we
to a prosperous issue.
have been
this
than formerly.
am
far
it."
THE REPUBLIC.
The embarrassments
in the
[1780.
conduct of
this
war from
outward causes were greatly increased by the crude and inaccurate opinions as to the exercise of subordinate powers, naturally existing
among a people
so recently
emerged
nothing
is
well defined views of a systematic limitation and demarcation of the relative duties and authorities proper to duly
ever impolitic.
This
is
frequently seen.
The
price of
Greene was
New
Jersey to be governed by the law. Hamilton, in the name of Washington, suggested an expedient. " It would
and
yet
it is
vigor.
To answer
this
other inconvenience, I
recommend
you
to adopt this
prices,
expedient
engaging that
make good
the
'
between the regulated and the market prices." Great discontents had arisen among the soldiers in
army.
An
An
interposition
by a judge of
the
the occasion of a letter to the governor of that State The matter written by Hamilton in Washington's behalf.
was soon
by him
in a
letter to the
it is
judge himself
of
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
great importance the different powers in the State should carefully avoid the least interference with each other and
;
am
properly within no other jurisdiction than that of Congress and the military authorities they have been pleased to establish. Every discussion of this kind,
question
falls
however,
wished
is
it
were
to
be
times be observed
Soon after he was called to comment on an usurpation by a body constituted by Congress. He wrote in Washington's name to the Board of War " I have received the enclosed proceedings of a general court martial held by
:
As
am
vision having been made for vesting the power of appointing courts martial in the Board (which is too confined in
many
respects), I
summary,
enough stated
No tify our approbation of decisions which aifect life. mention is made of the corps to which the prisoners belong,
the corporal punishments too are irregular, exceeding the
limits prescribed
stance also
is
this in-
he
found guilty of the additional crime of forgery, though the charge against him only is fraud.
need not assure the Board that the scruples now suggested, do not proceed from the least disposition to bring their power, in any instance, into question,
" I flatter myself I
which
is
the remotest of
my
intention.
But as the regular administration of justice, as well in the military as civil line, is of essential importance, and as the
regular constitution of courts
is
wards
it,
sensible
my
duty to be
10
satisfied
trials
THE KEPUBLIC.
[1780.
on this head, before 1 give my concurrence in any where there is room to doubt. I shall therefore be obliged to them to give me the necessary information concerning their powers in this respect, lest upon recollection,
it
may
be found that
I
not been
court, that
made.
new
the offenders
may not
may
more
It
explicit
and particular
may
But
it is
in her
During
this
were
The departure of
barkation at
Sir
New
York.
body of nearly
In anticipation of
this
During
this inter-
were made
* Washington's Writings,
vi.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
of that city,
first
11
tifications
In
its
importance.
That
it
could be
maintained, was chiefly founded on an impression that the Letters bar was impassable by vessels of large size.
of encouragement were addressed by Hamilton to Lincoln On the twenty-seventh of in the name of Washington.
February he wrote: "Hitherto our aifairs to the southward have certainly been more prosperous than could have been expected from circumstances, and if the issue
is
not favorable,
fault."
am
thoroughly persuaded
it
will not
be
your
He was
arch urging a diversion by the United States of the British force towards Georgia, to prevent succors being sent
to Pensacola
and Mobile, which the governor of Louisiana was about to attack with a force prepared at Havana. "If the enemy act offensively against the Carolinas your whole attention will necessarily be engaged at home, but
if
they should direct their force elsewhere, you may possibly have it in your power to pursue measures favorable
to the operations of the Spaniards
interest of the
and
will
to the
immediate
United States.
You
your information with respect to the Virginia troops being detached to the southward was good. Though they could be ill spared from the army, I thought
informed that
we
should have less to fear here than you there, without them and it appeared, upon the whole, advisable to
;
throw
in the
southern extremity."
from Virginia was desired, and how inert she still was, is shown by a letter from Colonel Laurens written at Charleston two days before this com-
munication to Lincoln
"
General Hagan
is
within a few
The
Virginia
12
troops are
THE REPUBLIC.
somewhere
!
[1780.
The appearance of a body of troops being detached under the command of Lord Raw don was some time after announced, the awaiting of which might throw the enemy
siege.
"
You
will easily
garrison.
My apprehensions,
If this
is
after
all,
secured, the
become
result,
critical
and arduous.
are assured,
will
But whatsoever
may
be the
of this
we
that no exertions,
prudence or perseverance
be wantthe office
May
in case the British detachment should sail, the Maryland division of two thousand troops would be sent forward, not in the
if it
should
"
of the State
as the
become
now
of Charleston.
The
informed by Hamilton
" greatly increase
the
name of Washington,
;
my
and the State of South Carolina and you will believe that my solicitude is not unmixed with considerations of
personal friendship.
loss.
I
The
loss
of the bar
is
a very serious
hope
it
may
This consolation,
is
however,
in
offers itself
that the
if
safe
you must
you
He was
Maryland
had marched.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
13
The enemy in the mean time proceeded in their investiture. A summons to surrender was given and rejected. The approaches were continued, and an evacuation was proposed. The inhabitants remonstrated, and Lincoln, partly governed by the difficulty of a retreat, continued
A second parallel was completed, and the town was encircled. Again a retreat was advised, and become more difficult, was again rejected in the hope of some fortunate relief. The enemy, reinforced by RawFort Moultrie was at last surdon, pressed on the siege. rendered and occupied. Their third parallel was finished,
the defence.
insufficient
to
man
the
The defence became hopeless. A second summons to surrender was given, and terms of capitulation were proposed by Lincoln. These being refused, hosThe besiegers were within twenty tilities were renewed. yards of the works. An assault was being prepared by The townspeople now petithe land and naval forces. tioned that the terms proposed by the enemy should be
accepted
on the twelfth of
fortifications,
May
capitulation
was
fully
warranted.
The
loss
if the
been prolonged
been relieved.
Sir
his hands.
To
336.
14
the
THE KEPUBLIO.
north
;
[1780.
was detached to the vicinity of marched for Augusta. The success of Tarleton over a small body of troops near the Waxhaw completed the conquest of the two most Southern States.
Georgia
another
and a
third
Having proclaimed
their subjugation
men
in
New York.
New
'
"
we
America other thoughts occupied the people, A letter was received not from President Bowdoin, head-quarters before at long transmitting a copy of the plan proposed for the constiHamilton acknowledged it, in tution of Massachusetts.
But
confident of the final result.
behalf of Washington
"
From
a cursory view
of
it,
it
appears to
all
me
This
last,
essential to the
it
State which
is
of so
much weight
Union
as that
of
will give
me
greater pleasure
devoutly to be wished
this
last."
La
Fayette's
second
visit
to his
He
moment when
iii.
* Walpole to Mann,
253.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
He was
put in arrest a
15
week
obedience to the order not to leave France, but this was a mere formality. Vergennes received him in private.
spirit
The
stage
resounded with
his
applauses.
Crowds
fol-
lowed
siastic
his steps.
spirit,
joyed
distinction.
The
council of
state, the
in
as-
then was formed the auxiliary army that was to bear succor to America.* This public enthusiasm triumphed over
the hesitating reluctance of Maurepas, and the economical
prudence of Necker.
command of the
*'
The army, placed under the veteran Rochambeau, commended for his
steadiness, wisdom, ability and prudence," t a pupil of the Marshal de Belle Isle, distinguished in frequent service,
was
to
be composed of
six
thousand troops.
Among
:
The
to the
who
;
in the
ment Segur, son of the marquis, who had succeeded Montbarry as minister of war the Count de Damas, who
;
the
his
corps of cavalry, favored at the same time with the smiles of Catharine, Empress of Russia, and with those of the
beautiful
queen of France
and a scholar
Viomenil.
The younger
330.
16
at the college
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
as they
by
the
mounted the sides of the king's ships commanded ChevaUer Des Touches, with sails unfurled to assist
western world.
twenty-seventh of April,
in liberating the
On the
his
La Fayette announced
arrival at Boston
and the coming fleet and army. The great measure which was suggested by himself, was accomand those written by him
all
His private
letters
in
You
will partici-
I feel at
La
of
May,
in behalf
Washington,
to
La Luzerne
conspire to
"
No event
it
me
of public
make
agreeable.
He
will
He
ship of
fail
to contribute greatly
To
a private
letter to
Duane
be handed to you-
in a private
and proposes a measure which all deem essential. For God's sake, my dear sir, engage Congress to adopt it, and come to a speedy decision. We have not a
moment
to lose.
Were we
to
the interval,
we
we
have to do.
the middle.
may
ginning of June,
be later than
In the
we have
not a month to
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
preparations
in,
17
make our
must
and
we
pro-
collect
things of as
much
it,
difficulty
as importance.
is
The
to
ought to decide
and
if
come,
Allow
will
me,
my
it
dear
sir,
to give
you a
hint.
The general
particular points,
but
it
will
may
require.
It is
the essence
my
dear
casion.
The
;
fate of
America
is,
perhaps, suspended on
it
the issue
if
we
must disgrace
us in the eyes of
nity
we
The private letter of Washington to Duane, drafted by Hamilton, is of a marked character " The arrival of
:
offers
measures are adopted to improve it. He announces an intention of his court to send a fleet and army to co-operate
effectually with
us.
finances,
and
in the
total
plan must be concerted to bring out the resources of the country with vigor and decision. This I think you will
agree with
me
cannot be effected,
if the
measures to be
every member to promote the objects in view. It appears to me of the greatest importance, and even of absolute
Vol. II.
18
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
all
the
army
on the continent.
tiary, to
draw out men and supplies of every kind, and to give their sanction to any operations which the commander-in-chief
take without
these
States.
it,
may
as well
beyond
with dispatch
and energy.
By
The
them with more freedom and confidence, than to a numerous body where secrecy is impossible, where the indiscretion of a single member,
to
may be opened
by
disclosing,
may
myself they
you
will be
your support.
The conjuncture
critical
and important
we have
site
seen
it
all
to give
all
a favorable issue
would, in
as
Circumstanced
ill
we
must
re-
sult.
We shall
succeed
;
probably
and,
if
the independence of
America
if
we
we
fail,
will
to
be
apprehended.
"
forego
These considerations should determine Congress to all inferior objects, and unite with mutual confi
in those
dence
in
sure success.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
is
19
"
There
knowledge of the resources of the country, the activity of his temper, his fruitfulness of expedients, and his
sound mihtary sense, make
me
wish, above
all things,
he
may
have also a very favorable opinion and integrity; and I understanding Mathews' of Mr. should be wiHing to trust every thing to the goodness of
be appointed.
I
some doubts of
is
his dis-
the appointment.
A
I
fits
well-composed committee
of pri-
mary importance.
these intimations
them only
for
your private
ear.
"
The opinion
and
me thus
freely
confidentially to impart
my
sentiments on the
me
in
judgment."
the eighth of April previous, Schuyler wrote to
On
relation
tion to
Hamilton, with
:
whom
"
embassy at the court of there is but one obstacle which prevents me Versailles making my mind up on the subject that you will know
go
; ;
when
The
and
perhaps, too, the wickedness of some on a certain floor, combine to frustrate every intention to promote the public weal, and relieve my amiable chief from his well-
grounded anxiety.
The few
affairs, in
department, within as well as without, have not been able to carry a measure which they believed would have had
salutary consequences.
that a
20
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
committee should repair to head-quarters, invested conjointly with the general with a kind of dictatorial power,
in order to afford satisfaction to the
to prepare instructions.
Some
Four days after, instructions were passed for the government of the committee. Its powers were far short of
those suggested in the letter of Hamilton.
limited to a correction of existing defects
system.
Schuyler,
Mathews of South
it.
Carolina,
Peabody of
New
Hampshire constituted
to the conquest
The
latter
was
La
Fayette,
who
in behalf of
Washington
" I im-
my
dear marquis, to
know
The away so fast, and we have so little before us, every moment is infinitely precious and ought to be
improved.
dians.
We
it is
If
ought not to be
delayed.
It
much
be
as possible
an
air
of probability.
different kinds
Perhaps
it
will
plausible to have
to
two
made
one intimating
in the
them the
St.
arrival of a
French
fleet
and army
River
Island, where, to
happy opportunity
it
afford
them
to
renew
make
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON".
21
Canada a part of the American confederation, with all the privileges and advantages enjoyed by the other members cautioning them by no means to aid the enemy in their preparations for defending the province. The other pro;
clamation should be drawn, on the supposition of the fleet and army being already arrived, and should contain an
allied
A
ette.
by La Fay-
If this project
little
were
its
relinquished,
expectation of
demonstration in that direction might be to induce a removal of the British forces from the United States, or of
such a detachment as would enable an attack to be
made
upon
inces.
Hamilton
at the
for
Washington,
to
naval force.
letter to
Two
Duane, Hamilton,
in be-
half of the commander-in-chief, apprised Rutledge, Governor of South Carolina, of the expected co-operation of
a French army.
The
to
an unfavor-
make them
way
"
tempt will have the greatest influence to the prejudice of I congratulate you on this new the affairs of England.
instance of the friendship of our ally.
The
is
magnanimous, and
22
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
He
communicated the promised succor confidentially to Governor Clinton, urged him to prolong the session of the
legislature of
New
any measure of co-operation. few days after, Schuyler having communicated the powers vested in the committee of co-operation to Genfor
wrote to Washington.
He
competency of their powers, "whether they can give you such support as will warrant your engaging in a cooperation with the French forces for the reduction of
New
York."
As
the powers
were
insufhcient, he sug-
gested to him
The next
this
was addressed
:
to
have attentively considered the circular letter to the different States which you did me the honor to communicate for
"
full
my
perusal,
and
am happy to
find, that
my
situation
is just,
recommended
it
as
my
extent and
will
be impossi-
May
24.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
23
any reasonable prospect of success. " The consequences you have well
fortune
delineated.
The
and instead of rescuing us from the embarrassexperience, and from the danger with which
all
ments
we
we
ruin.
ertions
we
shall
will
be
difficiflt if
hausted
the people
the consequence and repEurope sunk our friends chathe country exconfi-
new
resources.
not,
We
have
nor ought
an alternative.
for us, that
The
much
part.
we
demands
it
effort
on our
Our
it
situation
'tis
expected.
We
cess without
our energy.
Such
is
utmost exertion of
resources,
though equal,
them
into immediate
and
"
full effect.
There
is
up on a larger
Instead of
mean
the supply of
men by
draft.
completing deficiencies of the quotas assigned by the resolution of Congress of the 9th of
in
February
last, it
would,
my
24
THE REPUBLIC.
file.
[1780.
Conought
enemy,
on our part,
battalions
if
we
not to have
from
New
Hampshire
not
Pennsylvania inclusive,
complete would
amount
The
total
would be twenty-
To
this
may be added
to*
the
about
men
The
services
we can
can be attempted.
to justify such
dependence
Ham-
New York
at
seventeen thousand five hundred men, a total of fortythousand, including the five thousand French,
was pro-
was advised, should be renounced necessary. quired with the adequate supplies by the last of June to be kept up until the first of November. " This brings the The States must either give us what business to a point.
These,
it
we want
to
do
it,
and
we can
Let
it
suffice to
say
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
25
any
in prospect, unless
it
Pennsylvania.
Much
fault
man
fix
the army.
us,
upon your
State.
We
The
many
at
I
great
man
is
confounded
silent.
situation, but
write you in the fullest confidence that you will not let the
least hint
I give, as
it
have
difficulties
enough.
Hamilton soon
very earnest
letter
Washington's name
and as taking an enlarged, comprehensive view of the resources of the enemy and of those of France and
Spain.
Reed supposed an
ton.
Washing-
Two
Gates intimating
commander-in-chief.
is
one of
much
am
far
in a certain
quarter which
suits,
once possessed.
and a certain coldness or apathy of mind will naturally diminish attachments which had not a common
bond of blood, marriage or interest, to keep them gether." He consoled him with a comment upon the
*
toin-
March
4,
1780.
26
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
The
Washington by Hamilton, on
the
had not been felt, " of esteem and regard." The truth had not yet been unveiled. "I am much obliged to you for your favor of the Nothing could be more necessary than the twenty-third.
been made,
if it
aid given
visions.
pro-
There
is
such a
begins at length to be
worn
out,
and
our
we
army
All
our departments,
operations are at a stand, and unless a system very different from that which has for a long time prevailed, be immediately adopted throughout these States, our affairs
must
see
spot,
my
dear
sir, if
you could
what
surround us on every
side,
how
unable
are to administer to the most ordinary calls of the service, you would be convinced that these expressions
we
we have every
to hope.
thing to dread.
in
Indeed
The country
general is in such a state of insensibility, and indifference to its interests, that I dare not flatter myself with any
several States have given a just picture of our situation. I very much doubt its making the desired impression, and
if it
does not,
I shall
so interesting, that if
it
it
does not
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
27
have
sive
tJie
This
is
a decisay,
will
go farther and
The
court of
and
if
we
disappoint
its
intentions
by our
supineness,
all
we
in the eyes
of
mankind
allies
will
appear
we want
"
to deter-
mine us
most vigorous
fleets
efforts
The combined
last
year were
The enemy,
;
damage
and
at the
to our allies.
fleets,
campaign have given a very important blow This campaign, the difference between the
I
it
collect, will
be inconsiderable, indeed
will not be
far
What
are
we
to expect will be
campaign?
In
all
become of America? We ought not to deceive ourselves. The maritime resources of Great Britain are more substantial and real than those of France and Spain united. Her commerce is more extensive than that of both her rivals,
that the nation
will
and
it
is
an axiom
Were
itself.
this
Her
an incontestable
a very
" It
is
true,
France
in a
manner created a
fleet in
28
short space,
THE EEPUBLIC.
and
this
[1780.
may
we
abilities,
but
if
how comes
to
it
to pass,
much
su-
ground
as
in so short a time, as
now
have scarcely a
periority.
We
by France
a violent and
which, for want of a sufficient foundation, cannot continue to operate proportionable effects.
" In
modern wars
I
enemy
is
will
be found
be
so.
Though
the
government
is
rich,
and
is
such, that
it is
capable of greater
Speculators
any other
its
nation.
downfall, but
we
I
see
am
many
will
be a nasuccess-
advantage.
fully the
crown
it
power
will
that
may
thority.
may
At any
it
by an apprehension of
the
state.
It will
is
promote
at stake,
on
to
which
"
their all
and
may pave
the
way
With
will
this
disposition, I
means
"
est vigor.
France
is
in a
very
diflTerent position.
The
abilities
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
By
29
a wise
by advantageous
taxes.
But
am
well informed,
if
the
war
any duration.
When
this necessity
commences, France
in-
And
much
is
Of
late
government
essentially diminished.
Commerce and
far
filled
as
selves.
She
is
is
also
much
war
there
is
The temper
of
the nation
any of
it
their wars, a
perfect
in this
;
harmony of measures
cause.
nor has
common
own
call for
peace, to
obtain which
paign.
The present
it
court of France
can render
that
If
can interest
our duty,
this
our gratitude or
our emulation.
we do
we may
continent.
in earnest, or dis-
am
sincere in declaring
30
a
full
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
Now,
must observe to you, that much will depend on the State of Pennsylvania. She has it in her power to contribute without comparison more to our suc-
my
dear
sir, I
cess than
flour
in the
two
essential articles of
and transportation.
on
New
nia
flour countries.
little
New
all
of the army.
Her
own
subsistence.
equally ex-
hausted.
still
Maryland has
made
do something more.
in
somely
vania
I
some proportion
is
is
From every
full
information
I
of flour.
speak to
I
you
not
do
mean
I
make any
State.
am aware
ment labors under from the open opposition of the one I know party, and the underhand intrigues of another. that, with the best dispositions to promote the public service,
to
move with
circumspection.
But and
decision.
The hopes
in
at
large
may
be acted upon
The matter
reduced to a point.
the aid
Either Penn-
all
we
ask of her, or
we can
undertake nothing.
We
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
31
operation
and
must confess
we
look
revolt.
Yours,
am
con-
nor have I the least your influence to animate the legislature and the people at large. The fate of these States hangs upon it. God grant we may be properly impressed with the conseploy
all
quences.
" I wish the legislature could
pect every thing practicable from your abilities and zeal. This is not a time for formality or ceremony. The crisis
in
is
am
decided in
this opinion.
"I
am happy
to hear that
complying with the requisitions of Congress for specific that the spirit of the city and State seems to supplies
revive,
decline.
perhaps
my
this is the
am
make
it
unnecessary to
tell
you with how much esteem and regard I am," fec. Three days after, Hamilton apprised Governor Trumbull of the
ton,
be extraordinary
at
if
aim
blow
West
Point.
If he does,
we have every
in the
want of provision
for
Under
32
THE REPUBLIC.
to vigilance, directing
[I'J'SO.
commander
tle
him
vision.
The
effect.
Two
would extend, Knyphausen, the sixth of June, crossed into New Jersey, and the next day marched towards Springfield, burning a small village on
his route, a
wanton
act of barbarity,
worthy of Tryon,
militia of
who accompanied
him.
enemy, hastened
whole
force,
" I
am commanded by
are out in con-
enemy
and by the
last
way.
We
:
Hamilton went
view
forward to reconnoitre.
next day
"I
He
Those
in
I cal-
there
may
be,
and proba-
may
to
be made.
an action.
from
their in-
tention of passing
their rear.
I
it
upon
to
believe this
few
boats,
would certainly be a
manoeuvre
We
An
inces-
Very few
boats, not
tEt. 23.]
HAMILTON.
to carry three or four
33
hundred men
at
It is likely
more
will
prompted a
letter
from Hamilton,
in
Washington's behalf,
on the eleventh of June, from Springfield, to the commit" The most disastee of co-operation, disclosing his fears
:
You,
who
The
have run
of which
to arms,
there are
few examples.
are not
But perseverance
is
in
enduring
not to
be expected from
to
it.
those
who
and
by profession obliged
The
re-
is
high time
we
We
we must
relinquish
arrived at
New
York, and with a view to divide the American force, an Leaving two attack upon West Point was threatened.
brigades with Greene together with the Jersey militia un-
moved
bridge.
Rockaway
The enemy,
al-
by a general without an army aided, or rather embarrassed by small fugitive bodies of volunteer militia, the mimicry of soldiership."
"
"
The enemy
are
34
THE REPUBLIC.
in full
[1780
now
force,
town, and by
Springfield.
my
They were
;
by our
ad-
vanced corps
can
effect
The enemy
may
attempt."
He
remarked
We
we
beg leave to
recommend
may
It is essential to
our
means
to be free, this
is
the
moment
for
America
to exert herself."
To guard
West
place,
Howe
in
command
at
same time,
in a private
conveyed
to
commanding oflScer." The firm conduct of Greene and the Americans, had determined the enemy to
activity of th&
retire to
New
by Hamilton
Washington
States. "This is the time," he wrote Weare of New Hampshire, " for America, by one great exertion, to put
this
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
furnished.
35
means must be
is
The
basis of
every thing
else
full
establishment.
not done,
think
it
my
duty to
at-
campaign,
former, must
be chiefly defensive."
men and
of the
army
In
moment of extreme
" It canstill
not be too
much lamented
Not a thousand men that I have heard of have yet joined the army. After what had been preconcerted with the honorable the Congress, after two
so greatly behindhand.
if
our
find us
weeks
Besides
in a state
is
easy to conceive
how
de-
will
make of our
it,
conduct.
the season
is
exceedingly advanced.
cisive enterprise, if
will not
permit us to lose a
operations
;
moment of
which,
if
improved with
power,
is
less
So much
to
is
at
so
much
to be
hoped
if
so
much
be
lost
that
we
and
shall
all
be inexcusable
we do
not employ
all
our zeal
our exertion."
New
36
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
employment of forty thousand men for the reduction of New York. With this view he wrote at the same time to Greene, and the next day to Governor Trumbull, and to General Knox, desiring him to bring forward " all the cannon and stores necessary for a siege." The day after he communicated
Steuben.
It
contemplated the
La
Fayette.
On
the
in the
name of
the com-
Rochamof the
officers
De Ternay, commander
in his regards the
men
of both services.
Two
days
after,
name of
his
chief,
with the
"If," he
we can
do,
we have
I
means
to
me
the disgrace
in
must follow.
flatter
shall
do every thing
my
Four days
sides
my
duty to add,
a
that,
pressed on
atl
by a choice of
drafts of all the
difficulties, in
moment which
re-
The
letters
to
in
Washington's family, are remaining in his hand. In his memoirs, torn. i. 2-48, Rochambeau observes of Washington " During a long correspondence between
:
of his style."
Chastellux remarks,
with the French, which language he speaks and writes perfectly well, the details of
to discover
activity, whilst
the young
soldier,
still
more beyond
his
age than
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
I
37
line
quired decision,
of conduct which
and
faith
have sent
French general
and
remains
and admiral.
cy,
The
fulfil
die
is
cast,
it
their
engagements, preserve
If
we
fail
for
want of proper
the responsi-
I trust
where
it
I shall
stand
justi-
fied to
Congress, to
my
Sir
body of
troops, advices
Rochambeau
Hamilton
movement on the " third of August, stating Had Sir Henry prosecuted what appeared to be his design, my intention was to attempt New York in his absence. Our preparations were made for this purpose when I received advice that the
announced
Congress
this
:
fleet
returned towards
New
the
York."
He announced
his
intention to
move down
arrive
from France
to
force of
England
to La Fayname of Washington, " so as to enable us to commence our operations by the first of September, I
shall
calculated on having twice the force of the enemy, we included the whole succor expected from
When we
France.
It
will
be
difficult, if
38
complish
this
THE REPUBLIC.
before
the
[1780.
The
number of men
Letters were
hitherto
come
in,
rather
falls
short of
now
Orders were
also neces-
the
for the
It
impressment of
became
La
Fayette, eager to
employ the French army, which was done by Hamilton in Washington's name. To satisfy the public mind, he at this
time published a brief statement of the causes of the
New
York,
CHAPTER
At
these interesting
arisen within the
eight, as has
XXI.
serious difficulties had
in seventy-
moments
army
itself.
General Greene,
been
stated,
The
this
arduous
resulting
from the
were such,
it.
his request,
nor
amend
the system.
He
were done, he would not remain long. " I will not sacrifice my reputation for any consideration whatever. I engaged in the business as well out of compassion to your excellency, as from a regard to the public." These
less this
this
service,
still
With
became obvious
department were
withdrawn from Congress and committed to the commander-in-chief, the public interests must suffisr, and his reputation be injured. The vast expenditures made by
him, and the inadequacy of the supply of means
by the
Board of Treasury, had produced mutual complaints. A new organization of the department was proposed
40
in
THE REPUBLIC.
Congress.
Its
[1780.
were the motives to Another year elapsed, and no promptitude, was slow. remedy was provided. Again Greene wrote to Washingaction, urgent as
ton
"
conversation which
have with
ments attending
the public holds
and
who engage
in it."
"
When
up
to
and creates new and unnecessary difficulties, few men would be willing to tread the path where so Still looklittle is to be gained and so much may be lost." " happy to shall be adds, I he system, of change to a ing
insult to injury,
my power
to
posed plan of operations, notwithstanding the injuries I feel, providing they are not accompanied with circumstances of personal indignity.
As
to pay,
shall
ask
my family expenses, and all the conditions have my command in the line of the rank, and to be secured from any to my agreeable army
shall ask, are, to
loss in the settlement
While Congress were debating, the committee of cooperation at camp, where the experience of Greene and Schuyler was in concert, digested a system which was
submitted to Congress.
trol
of
this
of their own.
While
this
He
from
"
whom
he received
My
dear General,
When
you ask
my
opinion as a
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
I
41
friend,
friend,
how-
give
may happen
to clash
complexion of their letter to you would abundantly justify the asperity of your reply but considering them as a public body, one of the first in the
individuals, the
;
many
pronounces
it
to
be too great.
all
We
are en-
depends.
We
at the
sometimes even
The
your department.
it
will necessai'ily
You may
conit
should think
This appears to
ter.
me
to
let-
may
sue for peace, but they will hate you for the humiliation
and they
may have
I
milder terms."
weary of
the
office,
and
own
reputation, resolved to
Washington
in
purpose.
ter to
He had
Congress announcing
In
this letter
he expressly stated his " intention, long since communicated to the commander-in-chief and the committee, to
continue to exercise the office during the active part of
42
THE REPUBLIC.
were
left
[1780.
on such a
foot-
He
commenting upon the impolicy of the new Congress were deeply offended with the freedom of his observations, and an intimation was given to Washington of an intention to suspend him from
ing
its
duties,
Washington immediately replied Let me beseech you to consider well what you A procedure of this kind are about before you resolve. must touch the feelings of every officer. It will show in
his
command
:
in the
line.
"
a conspicuous
point of view
the
uncertain tenure by
their commissions.
In a word,
it
will
if
much
an
officer in the
whole
line,
comtill
he does
Such an
act
in
government
would be attended
soldier
at least
Hap-
wrong
to this meritorious
was not perpetrated. A question of military etiwas also a cause of embarrassment. Colonel McPherson, an officer of merit, though not free from exception, was appointed to the command of a corps detached from the Pennsylvania line. The officers of They were dissuaded by that line threatened to resign.
a large examination and distinct assertion of the right of
thus selecting an officer to the
command
of a detachment,
drawn up by Hamilton
chief,
in behalf
of the commander-in-
with a
full
own
rights, to
be asserted
many
still
upon
* Aug, 10.
.^T. 23.]
HAMILTON.
With
this
43
his attention.
"
com-
mander-in-chief.
tive character,
They
The
army came
in
very slowly.
to the
Hamcom-
ilton, in the
the continental
battalions falling
short
nearly four
The
deficit in the
and means of transportation had again compelled impressments. " In this state of things," it was added, " I leave
it
to
your
own judgment
to
to
determine
how
little it will
be
in
my power
my
hands."
As
call
French army
is
ad-
upon the several States is urged. This communication was enclosed to Congress in a very earnest and graphic letter on the twentieth of Auverted
to,
and a
gust, reviewing the effects produced by the want of a permanent army on the past military operations, and
upon the
"
Had we
kept a
permanent army on
nothing to hope
for,
foot, the
and would
have
lis-
The
fact
is
stated, that
on the
first
of an army that will remain, will have every motive, except patriotism, to abandon the service, without the hope
for the
176.
44
better.
THE REPUBLIC.
To me
it
[1780.
will
appear miraculous,
in
if
our
affairs
their
present
we may expect
soon to
The
has a claim to
it
all
our confidence
and
all
is
common
cause, to
work
entirely to them."
From a domestic
As
to the
enemy, he obat
served
debt,
"
borrow money
an excessive
interest
they can pay the interest of what they borrow, they will
not want credit, nor will they fear to stretch
tional
it."
nato
As
"
to
thought a politic
course
would
it is
In England,
much Crown
will
it,
The
poli-
we
so.
could wish,
but
tics
we have no
security that
it
will
remain
The
particular prejudice,
views of policy.
ister
is
interest,
than by extensive
may
re-
versed."
an advanced age.
^T,
23.]
HAMILTON.
inference from these reflections
is,
45
that
"
The
we
canit is
our measures.
An
essentia]
and put
men
in time to replace
those
who
will
and
soldiers,
reasonable allowance.
The plan
will
be
war
is
or for three
The
belief
was
war
or for
Another measure
justice
to
army," as an act of
and of
policy.
"
The
dissolution of the
army
it
is
It
distresses
upon us
would
;
would
discredit
it
allies." This valuable communication an admonition of the importance " that every
di-
" I
might easily
show, that a
civil
Union by making us thirteen armies instead of one, and by attaching the troops of each State to that State, rather
than to the United States.
to be visible."
The
effects
of
this spirit
begin
it
was suggested,
46
that magazines
THE REPUBLIC.
" If possible, this force should
[1780.
thousand troops.
be kept
On
friend,"
the
to Colonel
which
It
by
and
his sufferings
has a claim to
the
indulgence
with consistency."
" If
you
can manage to spare him without incurring the charge of partiality, you will have the pleasure of doing an act of
humanity.
I
know
army must
ulti-
mately control every other consideration, and it may become unavoidable to take his hay, but from his position,
it
This
may not be bad policy to let him be the may give him a chance to escape."
The
last
devoured.
a probable
demand
under the consideration of Congress a short time before the date of this letter, on a proposition to give the commander-in-chief commensurate power.
A vote was
taken,
and though the chief motive was to make a diversion rn favor of the most Southern States, Maryland and both the Carolinas were against the proposition, and Georgia
was two
divided.
delegates,
were
in
its
favor
so
jealous
was
the
mode of an attack upon New York by the The draft of this plan in much detail is in
In case delays should prevent
this
Hamilton's hand.
.Et. 23.]
HAMILTON.
St.
47
from
on the
for
want of a naval
superiority,
neither
New York
an expedition into Canada was proposed of To engage him troops, one half French.
prise,
thousand
in the enterto
Rochambeau was
to be
the chief,
Greene
com-
mand
" I
La
light infantry,
two reasons the one already menRochambeau, and the general situation tioned respecting of the country, which requires his presence and influence within the States for in the present crisis there is no
in-chief should go, for
in
need of
He
proposed as the
first
Quebec.
carried,
Perhaps
we may be
able to carry
by
assault."
The
He
this
"
We
should endeavor at
fleet to
way
at least
It will
this
have
ing
many advantages
from
it
will
prevent the
New York
;
to
Southern States
their faults.
it
advantage of
to appreIt
It will
we have
if
in the winter.
to the
southward,
we
all
should
necessary.
by
means
The mode of
the attack
upon
48
nicated to
THE REPUBLIC.
Rochambeau
in a letter written for
this
[1780.
Washington
by Hamilton.
Advices were at
This changed
an improbable event.
of war was convened,
principal
was dismissed
and a council
opinion as
who concurred
in the
reluctantly relinquished.
Information was at
fleet
moment De
Hamilton,
to the
French
of the
letter,
twelfth
of
from
terms,
his
fleet
and
stated, in
the
situation
of
affairs,
the
blockade
of
the
Rhode Island, and French the French army for its protection
fleet at
tion of the
United States
the
the exhausted
condi-
na and Georgia.
" I write to you,"
it is
to subsist between allies and be^ tween military men. In my eye, the interests of France and America are the same, and to conceal our embarrassments would be to betray both. To propose at this time
fruitless.
I shall
consequence of
terprise
this letter
late for
an en-
against
New York
I
superiority would,
the
southern extremity.
pointed for
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
De Ternay,
plans,
in
49
shall
the Chevalier
which we
probably
combine several
different contingencies.
One of
fleet."
Having,
in
whom
the
command
of
army
in his
La
Fayette,
aid,
McHenry,
to
and admiral
September.
at Hartford.
From
it
a minute of
if
it,
in
Hamilton's hand,
it
appears, that
was agreed
De Guichen
should arrive
by
of
"
New York
the
become
object
by any other
to
Southern States
to
consist of
compose with
army of from
if
men.
urged by Hamilton,
an opportunity should
do
it
join him near New York his probable by the expiration of the term of service of a large number of his men, prompting this suggestion. It was declined by the French officers, as not being in conformity with their instructions. This was decisive. Intimations were given by Washington respecting a win-
and
their
army
weakness
there,
Canada.
" there
concert on
this subject
was
as
it
declined,
till
was imagined
Vol.
II.
might be some
political objec-
-4
50
THE REPUBLIC.
During the journey, an event occurred which
[1780.
threat-
tories
jealous indignity.
as?
rank would be
these
new
acquired, a proposal
was made
in Congress, that
an ante-
was
lost
upon
two
divisions,
board of general
officers,
convened
governed by the
standing of the
present commissions.
The
all
embarrassments as
On
wound
command.
of
his
powers
and
civil
A sharp
to Congress.
The
result
Upon
full
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
51
by a
sup-
was
court
correspondence
now
lat-
the commander-in-chief,
trial, in
which the
These were
about this time to Arnold, in Washingby Hamilton, exhibits the same generous ton's name, spirit towards him which had marked his previous con" I beg you to be convinced, that I do not indulge duct any sentiments unfavorable to you, while my duty obliges
letter written
also
me, and,
am
sure,
I
you wish me
fair trial shall
to avoid the
semblance
till
of partiality.
result of a full
cautiously suspend
my judgment,
the
and
the prosecution." *
The
quitting
operations of the
trial until
the
ac-
Arnold of criminal
mand by
mildest,
the commander-in-chief.f
most delicate
with censure.
He
ap-
critical
moment, of going
This charge,
of unquestioned
his peace.
men
May
15, 1779.
52
character,
THE REPUBLIC.
General Cadwallader, *
[1780.
Major
Lenox, and
other persons,
came with an
ill
grace from a
man
subse-
The
made
of the
little
impression upon
He gave him
the
command
left
command
at
West
Point.
In
this
On the
were given
to
him
below
the eastern
historical
associations,
of most attraction.
Here
the
Hudson
in its
wild rugged mountain masses, which by some great effort of nature in ages past yielded to
its
onward
pressure,
meets
turns
at
its
West
soon resumes
Its
former course.
command
of
its
eastern
bank, indicated
as a place of arms.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
53
An
On
interspace between
was erected
ments on the south and west, and on the opposite fronts irregular ramparts conformed to the broken brows of the
steep slopes, on which
were water
West of this
hung a
plain,
upon a mountain
Its
side,
The scarp of
the
Above
it,
on the summits of
were three strong redoubts, lined with cannon, commanding the whole position. The fortification of these Highlands, it has been seen,
this height,
was suggested
after his return
in
from
The
construc-
was
is
stated in a letter of
five
hundred
efficient
men," desired.
from Major Bauman to Hamilton, dated ten days after the command was taken by Arnold, depicts the state of this post resulting from its fluctuating governletter
ment
"
Take
in
I shall
say, as
it
pro-
ceeds from a zeal of affection to you, and from a regard As fast as one thing to the cause in which I am engaged.
is
is
torn
down
again.
There
is
not, in
all
No
54
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
America thinks not only an insurmountable barrier against the incursion of its enemy,
that shining fortification
all
army.
in." *
in confidence,
assure you, that I suffer incessant pain from the sad state
this
garrison
is
as
The
twenty-fifth of September, as
Washington and
La
proposed on approaching
erected there.
his
at
to
make known the cause of his detention. As they were sitting at table, Arnold received
a note,
He
immediately
left
the
table,
She
fainted.
He
left
mediate presence at
West
was
required.
Washing-
crossed over to
was not
there.
Hamilton received a
lines in quest
The
traitor,
144.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
time, rode to the water's edge,
55
in the
mean
and sprang
into
a British vessel, lying in the stream. Washington, having inspected the works, recrossed
the river with his companions.
On
his
approach to Rob-
inson's house, Hamilton was seen walking towards them with a quick step and anxious countenance. He came up
They
Wash-
Not doubting that Arnold had hastened to the enemy, Hamilton and McHenry rode down the Hudson towards Verplanck's Point, in order to have him interington.*
this
place to Washington
are too late.
"
You
we
Arnold went
by water
to
to the Vulture.
I shall
march
and even
to detail
a brigade this
way
for
it is
go on, yet
Arnold has made such dispositions with the garrison as may tempt the enemy in its present weakness to make the stroke this night, and it seems prudent to be
providing against
it.
I shall
endeavor
to find Meigs,
and
make some
approve
"
arrangements here.
will
lost."
these steps, as there may be no time to be Vulture is gone down to New York."
The
The enclosure
from Arnold,
in this note
was a
letter to
Washington
avowing
just
as
to
Greene
"
Here has
been
56
THE REPUBLIC.
fled
is
[1780.
Arnold has
to the
enemy.
jutant-general,
West
been the
night
"
sacrifice.
made
to-
and
possible,
may
still
came here
in pursuit of
Arnold,
army under
way."
Appalled as Washington was by the magnitude of the
thought on receiving
this note,
treason, his
first
prompted
had rendered
it
was
safe.
The
feelings of the
from
in
were most
liberal
behalf of Andre
Hamilton.
him.
ble,
He was
daily searching
some way
to save
Every wish
Hamilton,
to that effect
who was
as sensible as
any other of
it
that
who lamented
is
the most,
a masterpiece of literary
It
and amiable
sensibility."
embraces
all
the
HAMILTON TO LAURENS.
" Since
my
my
dear Laurens,
my mind
to
ease to permit
me
to write
affect-
you sooner.
My
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
were never put
to so severe a trial.
57
feelings
You
this
will
no
reaches
you
my situation
gave
me
come
to
am
From
to
The
last.
first
overture
is
traced Ijack to
in a letter to
some time
in
June
It
was conveyed
that he
now
to
Henry Clinton for that purpose. About this period he made a journey to Connecticut on his return from which to Philadelphia, he solicited the command of West Point, alleging that the effects of his wound had disqualified him The sacrifice of this for the active duties of the field. important post was the atonement he intended to make.
;
less to gratify
an
officer
who had
In
many
the beginning of
his application.
The enemy at -this juncture had embarked Rhode Island, and our army was in motion to compel them to .relinquish the enterprise or to attack New York in its weakened state. The general offered Arnold the left
the greatest part of their force on an expedition to
58
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
He
splendid an opportunity.
to be
diverted a
moment from
probably from
The
ex-
been
"
would have led to a suspicion of the treachery, had possible, from his past conduct, to have supposed
it.
him capable of
The correspondence
in
thus
behalf of Sir
Henry
Clinton,
under
In an
into our
and speaks of it as the means of extending their It appears by another letter, that Andre was to traffic.
rison,
lines,
flag,
The twentieth of last month, Robinson and Andre went up the river in the Vulture sloop of war. Robinson
sent a flag to Arnold with
two
letters,
one to General
in-
Putnam,
adjust
enclosed in
to
The one
General Putnam
was
accident, the letters should have fallen under the inspection of a third person.
his
way
to
.^T. 23.]
HAMILTON.
59
Arnold, conit
neces-
The
him from
it,
whatever related to
authority.
must be of a
civil
form of a
The interview could no longer take place flag, but was obliged to be managed in a
to
secret manner.
"
Andre came
all
that night
At
daylight in the
moved
to
to take a
more
remote station. This event, or some lurking distrust, made the boatmen refuse to convey the two passengers
back, and disconcerted Arnold so much, that
by one of
those strokes of infatuation which often confound the schemes of men conscious of guilt, he insisted on Andre's
exchanging
his
in a
mode
first
different
from that
in
which he came.
Andre,
who
posts, in the
warmly
against this
new and
dangerous expedient.
But Arnold,
persisting in declaring
60
it
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
and consented
to
change
Smith
of a
to
The
panying Andre a
left
little
beyond
Pine's Bridge,
where he
him.
He had
up by three
militia
At
this critical
moment,
his
presence
and
could have done him no harm with his own, he asked the
men
if
distinctive appellations
known among
The
militia
men
replied they
told
upon which he
business.
in vain
doubt
he afterwards produced
his pass.
where, after a
in the feet of
him by Arnold.
fortifications
Among
West
and
of
The
;
prisoner at
first
Arnold
on the way, he
General
was countermanded and sent to old Salem. " The papers were enclosed in a letter
to
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
circuit, that
61
afforded
an ill-judged delicacy,
arrived at his
him an hour before General Washington quarters, time enough to elude the fate that
awaited him.
On take with him a single paper useful to the enemy. too much but pursued, was he affair the of notice first the
late to
be overtaken.
for imagining
it
"
was a part of
the plan to betray the general into the hands of the enemy : Arnold was very anxious to ascertain from him the
precise
day of his return, and the enemy's movements seem But if it was really to have corresponded to this point. success must have The injudicious. very was it case, the
depended on
surprise,
and as the
officers at the
advanced
posts were not in the secret, their measures might have given the alarm, and General Washington, taking the com-
mand
abortive.
as to have
Arnold,
it is
true,
made a defence difficult, but not impracticable West Point was of such magnitude
it
would have been unwise to connect with any other object, however great, which might
enemy, that
the obtaining of
it
make
precarious.
" Arnold, a
moment
Mrs. Arnold's apartment, and informed her that some transactions had just come to light, which must for ever
banish him from his country.
this declaration,
She
her in
fell
it
into a
swoon
at
and he
left
to consult his
cries,
own
safety,
relief.
till
by her
came
to her
She remained
62
THE REPUBLIC.
intention to
[1780.
murder her
child,
(an infant in her arms,) and exhibiting every other mark of the most genuine and agonizing distress. Exhausted
by the fatigue and tumult of her spirits, her frenzy subsided towards evening, and she sunk into all the sadness of affliction. It was impossible not to have been touched
with her situation
;
in
female tears,
wounded tenderness of
innocence, conspired to
to all
make her an
.
sympathy
deli-
who were
present.
her departure
loss
was immediately
prevent
all
officers, to
enemy."
The Board
consisted
of
fourteen
general
officers,
to
"
army,
will
Major Andre, adjutant-general to the be brought before you for your examwithin our lines in the night on an
in-
He came
;
and was taken within our lines, in a disguised habit, with a pass under a feigned name, and with the enAfter a careful exclosed papers concealed upon him.
character
amination, you will be pleased, as speedily as possible, to
report a precise state of his case, together with your opinion of the light in which he ought to be considered,
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
that ought to be inflicted.
assist in the
63
The judge
examination,
who
has
"The
An
estimate of the
:
number of men
requisite to
man
the
works
minute descrip-
cently held at
campaign submitted
to
Arnold for
"
his opinion.
a spy, and
according to the
man
suflfer
justice,
less.
The
first
capture,
was
to write a letter to
General Washington,
to vindi-
cate himself from the imputation of having assumed a mean character, for treacherous or interested purposes
asserting that he
that
contrary to his intention, which was to meet a person for intelligence on neutral ground, he had been betrayed
within our posts, and forced into the vile condition of an
enemy
in disguise
soliciting
observed due to a person who, though unfortunate, had been guilty of nothing dishonorable. His request was
granted in
the
affair,
its
full
extent
for in the
whole progress of
deli-
cacy.
When
Board of
officers,
he
64
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
met with every mark of indulgence, and was required to answer no interrogatory which would even embarrass his
feelings.
On
his part,
thing that might implicate others, he frankly confessed all the facts relating to himself, and upon his confession,
without the trouble of examining a witness, the Board made their report. The members were not more impressed with the candor and firmness, mixed with a becoming sensibiUty which he displayed, than he was penetrated with their liberality and politeness.
He acknow-
ledged the generosity of the behavior towards him in every respect, but particularly in this, in the strongest
tleman
who
visited
him after
he
;
said,
if
he flattered
there
but
his
were
his
mind,
present expe-
made
to him, (and I
saw him
several times during his confinement,) he begged me to be the bearer of a request to the general, for permission
to send
an open
letter to Sir
'
Henry
I
life,
Clinton.
'
foresee
my
to
and though
am
reconciled
happen, conscious that misfortune, not There is only one thing guilt, has brought it upon me. Sir Henry Clinton has tranquillity. that disturbs my
whatever
may
been too good to me he has been lavish of his kindness and love him I am bound to him by too many obligations,
;
too well to bear the thought that he should reproach himsupposition of self, or others should reproach him, on the
my
to
his instructions,
run the
sting in his
I would not, fox the world, leave a mind that should embitter his future days.'
;
He
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
of
his efforts to
65
in spite
collected himself
enough afterwards
I
wish to
my own
request
letter
was
wrote the
much
tion.
"
When
his
was
was
still
make a
He made
second application by
terms.
It
was thought
this
and
it
inflict.
bowed familiarly
he had been ac-
went
along, to
all
those with
whom
A Wile
of complacency ex-
Arrived
'
at the
must
then die
in this
'
manner
He was
told
it
am
will
reconciled to
my
fate,
(said he,)
mode.'
'
it
'
the
cart,
performed the
last
offices
himself, with a
Upon
if
final
mo-
ment was
at hand,
'
and asked
he answered,
Vol. II.
ee
the world, that
THE REPUBLIC.
I die like
[1780.
a brave man.'
Among
the ex-
"
in
the
To an
excellent under-
a peculiar
by education and travel, he united elegance of mind and manners, and the advanIt is said,
he possessed a pretty
ficiency in
and had himself attained some propoetry, music, and painting. His knowledge
difli-
many
talents
and ac-
you
to
His elocu-
was handsome
By
his
merit, he
confiin
dence of
his general,
was
at
prosperity, and
blasted,
saw
The character I have given of from what I saw of him myself, and
tion.
I
"
drawn
is
partly
am
aware, that a
man
of real merit
never seen
in so favorable a light as
The
good
his
Misfortune cuts
down
the
little
vanities,
many
spots in his
his
worth
^Et. 23.]
HAMILTON.
His spectators,
67
enjoy a happier
;
more amiable.
who
it
lot,
through envy
and are
more disposed by compassion to give him the deserves, and perhaps even to magnify it.
philosopher, but as a man. of the world.
credit he
maxims and
nature.
tion, as
well as violence
most
traitors in the
army of
this
adversary
is
frequently
most applauded.
On
we would
his
not but
rectitude.
however, a blemish on
flag,
fame, that he
this, a
about
;
man
of
was
great.
Let
his
error.
" Several letters
were received
a
flag,
;
with a passport from a general officer in actual serand, consequently, could not be justly detained.
vice
Mr.
Elliot,
to rep-
Major Andre's
case.
General Greene met Robinson, and had a conversation with him, in which he reiterated the pretence of a flag,
uyged Andre's release as a personal favor to Sir Henry Chnton, and offered any friend of ours in their power in
exchange.
was
used.
The
68
THE REPUBLIC.
flags
;
[1780.
customary with
contrary,
the formalities,
guage
an
officer to
justifiable
betray
his trust,
ought to be respected.
its
So unvalidity,
a purpose
but
the argument,
by
it.
ridi-
was a weakness
no
to
urge
There was,
in truth,
way
of saving him.
;
Arnold
the former
was out of
our power.
" It
covered in the
sacrifice
act,
it
power
to
Andre
to his
own
security.
This surmise of
and a gentleman
latter, as
by him. He dechned it. The moment he had been capable of so much frailty, I
should have ceased to esteem him.
The infamy of Arnold's conduct previous to his desertion, is only equalled by his baseness since. Besides the folly of writing to Sir Henry Clinton, that Andre had
acted under a passport from him, and according to his
rections, while
di-
"
commanding
officer at a post,
and
that,
in the
same
spirit,
iation, if the
He
This
man
is,
in
In addition to
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON".
and prostitution during
late seizure
his
69
com-
mand
is
in Philadelphia,
which the
of his papers
command
at
West
Point,
He
prac-
tised
to con-
To
his
a striking contrast.
his
He
offer
of
money they
should
;
name.
They
and
and an honest
repeat with
While Arnold
is
Van Wert,
happy escape from It is a the mischiefs with which this treason was big. new comment on the value of an honest man, and, if it were possible, would endear you to me more than ever.
friend on our
" I congratulate
my
Adieu."
In a letter of the twenty-fifth of September, addressed
to Miss Schuyler,
this affecting
story
went
I
in pursuit
of him,
dis-
much
too late
appointment,
when on my
saw an amiable
husband she
his
woman,
tenderly loved,
a disgrace
traitor to his
:
country and to
it
fame,
to his connections
was
70
scene
I
THE EEPUBLIC.
[1780.
was ever witness to. She, for a considerable time, The general went up to see her, and she upbraided him with being in a plot to murder her
entirely lost herself.
child.
One moment
its
tears.
bosom,
and lamented
its
father, in a
manner
all
insensi-
bility itself.
the loveli-
ness of innocence,
and
all
the
We have
was entirely unacquainted with the plan, and that the first knowledge of it, was when Arnold went to tell her
he must banish himself from
for ever.
his
She instantly
morning she
fell
into a convulsion,
and he
left
and endeavored
;
to soothe her
power
though you
may
imagine she
not easily to be
is
consoled.
Added
is
very apfall
upon
(who
band.
" I
ill
founded
She received
to
her defender
to give
as
it is,
me
I
her proofs of
my
Could
forgive
Arnold for
forfeited the
and duty,
could not forgive him for acting a part that must have
esteem of so
fine
woman.
At
;
present, she
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
is
Tl
her love of the
lost in
man.
But a virtuous mind cannot long esteem a base one, and time will make her despise, if it cannot make her
hate."
One circumstance
in
this
which, in
mem-
feelingly alludes,
his execution,
the
manner
On
the
day of
Hamilton thus
thing that
f
suffers
Poor Andre
to-day
every
;
is
but hard-hearted
.
He must die
affair,
send you
my
account of Arnold's
I
and
to justify
myself to
your sentiments,
must inform you, that I urged a compliance with Andre's request to be shot, and I do not think but some people are only it would have had an ill effect
;
row
"
disposition, mistake
it.
When
and present
resentment
over,
the refusing
much
" It
obstinacy.
to
was proposed
me
;
to suggest to
I
but
it,
knew
esteem by doing
As a man of honor, he could not but reject it and I would not for the world have proposed to him a thing
which must have placed me
posing him capable
in the
unamiable
light of sup-
confess to you,
Tappau, Oct.
2,
1780.
72
I
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
because
had the weakness to value the esteem of a dying man, * I reverenced his merit."
sentiments of
their author,
tive,
and
to the
Andre, educated amidst a circle of devoted relatives, and habitually indulging every ardent impulse of his
oenerous nature, had torn himself from their reluctant
field.
Commended
to the notice
Henry
and was
which serve to
his
deportment often
his less
polished
and such was the impression on the minds of who had been prisoners, that when the Americans those
event arrived, great as was the rejoicing at the detection of the plot and the capture of the spy, every bosom swelled with regret to learn that that spy
news of
this
as
this
con-
The
followiug note
to General
Washington, on
1,
1780.
'
"Buoyed above
by the
consciousness of a
life
devoted
to honourable pursuits,
trust that the request
me
remorse, I
make
to
your excellency, at
will not
this
serious period,
and
whfch
is to soften
my
last
moments,
be rejected.
induce your excellency, and a
mode
of
my
man
of
honour.
" Let
me
if
hope,
sir, if
aught in
my
wards me,
aught in
my
misfortunes marks
me
and
am
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
and
his indignation
73
spiracy,
it
was intended
Washington,
his
generous feehngs, nevertheless, seemed wholly to take possession of him, and during all the period of Andre's
confinement and
trial,
alle-
and
bitter-
As soon
Jackson,
I
as he
was brought
in,
much
Major
to
you not
visit
him
"
you Thus
awakening the sympathies of the army, he turned their resentment upon the traitor, to whose criminal arts the
British officer
The conduct of Andre's captors was the theme of honest pride. Every soldier in the camp participated in their triumph. But when the day of his execution came, he was followed only by the
had unhappily
lent himself.
who surrounded
officer or soldier
its
victim, not
an
was
to
be seen as a spectator.
All re-
and
sensibility
was thought
Hamilton wrote
ington
:
to
in
behalf of
Washscene
"
unfolded
itself.
of the
sacri-
General Arnold,
who
This
is
me
is
more
to
be wondered
74
logue
IS
THE REPUBLIC.
so small, than
that there
[1780.
few."
The
first
object
was
An
commanding
its
officer,
preservation.
to its
by Hamilton " You will exert yourself to complete the works, and to put them in the most perfect state of deThis is essential, under the knowledge the enemy fence.
:
state, as a
change
in their situation
Arnold has
it
in his
The
traitor
The same spirit which had was shown towards this unhappy,
council of Pennsylvania
for
innocent
would not
conduct.
any appeal
mercy or guaranties of
reluc-
CHAPTER
The embarrassed
XXII.
Without
efforts
credit,
now
suggested the
Money
lic
by
on the
solid
basis of a National
Revenue.
An
effective
strength
jects
army could only be maintained of sufficient by a permanent system. These two great ob-
The
organs of
life
were wanting
their
bills
to the
body
politic.
Having by
old
own
continental
March of
this
year a
new
The
commenced with
at the rate
76
bills in
THE EEPUBLIC.
circulation,
[1780,
to
be re-issued.
In-
stead of these, a
New
bills
was
to be
made,
redeemable
term of
redemption of the
bills,
or annually
in
by
bills
of exchange
Europe.
These new
faith
were
to issue
that
purpose to be established
and the
of the
in the
redeem the
bills
issued Six-
upon
its
credit,
owing
war.
tenths of these
new
the
residue to be subject
United States.
The
States
were
to
so as to
redeem a
to the
is
Confidence
the
result
of this plan
was indulged.
leading
member wrote
sented
:
" This
world
will for
ever
call wise.
It
is
now
its
in their
by a
lic
credit
just value
the product of
much
laboi^
and
discussion,
for thinking they are not the best possible, yet they are
upon
be rejected,
confess
common
much was
It
expected, was
wrong
direction.
* Ellsworth to Trumbull.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
new
articles of confederation,
77
spirit
of the
and substituted
the
mere
illusory, ultimate
this
procedure, Congress, in a
dif-
and new
bills
ers in Europe.
ises.
new
but the
were a pledge
The
sole
for specific
To
mand
portation of those of
its
ing within
cut off
all
any commissary or quartermaster from purchasTheir new scheme of finance had its limits."
present resources of money.
oft* all
This
new scheme
The
of subsistence cut
continental paper
nue.
This
This
was
tent policy
were
and the
Y8
patriotism of
THE REPUBLIC.
many was
The
[1780.
power
towards them, and gave to their real, an artificial, baneful preponderance. " Congress," is the language of a mem-
"has been gradually surrendering or throwing upon the several States, the exercise of powers they should have retained, and to their utmost, have exercised thember,
selves
until, at length,
left,
for, as to
the
army, the Congress is at present little dium through which the wants of the army are conveyed The wants of the army were not only to the States." *
of subsistence, but of pay.
They were
till it
paid in a
medium
became worthless.f
To
promissory resolution of
them the depreciation, and that the loss should be taken in account. If mutiny followed, can it be The " forage and transportation," a source of surprise 1
make good
to
Hamilton wrote,
"
by
military impress, a
mode
sive,
Send us
upon
their
troops,
ships
writes to Vergennes,
ple nor
their
" but
means
money nor
credit
means of
momentary,
in their
own
for the
diate danger,
mands sometimes
*
f
men
"
!
John Matthews
of South Carolina.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
:
"
By
commerce and consequence, America must expect to gain and keep friends. The equity of her cause is with many
only a secondary consideration." *
The
fruitless
recommendations
to the States
were not
Congress
temporary force
to the action of
its
The
dictatorial
for
re-
and granted
to
it
Thus every motive of experience, of honor, of reputation, of interest, of safety demanded a government of
the United States
power
will
in this
The
When
ratified,
constitute a
mere league of
doomed
to defeat a na-
tional policy.
Such a policy, a sovereignty of the nation could alone establish, and alone maintain. These articles of confederation, as being the form of existence to which the people were looking, were a delusive passing promise.
The
industrial interests of
New England, no
longer the
De-
met
at Providence.
* Jay to G. Clinton,
May
6,
1780.
80
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
Seeing the necessity of the concurrence of other States, a second convention was called to meet at Springfield.
They met on
The
by
which the industry of the country was paralyzed. The four New England States and New York were represented.
This convention proposed to rescind the limitation of
prices
the
money
its
be-
mean to The
this end.
January, seventy-eight.
The
New
York,
New
been present.
Though
disin-
contemplated establish-
Another convention was then held, whose objects indicate an important advance in public opinion.
nine.
medium, and
commerce,
" that
their
" to
agree on a
mode of
the
internal trade
and
in
consistency
with
general welfare."
was impossible
;
regulations
"
and therefore invited a larger meeting of commissioners, embracing Maryland and Virginia. Whether the Carolinas and Georgia were included is not
the southward
is
The
objects stated were, to form, " if expedient, a regulation of ; prices that may be permanent and salutary " and " if
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
it
81
Congress approve,"
their
was added,
"
we
shall
be glad of
to
we do
not
money
tained
is
by taxes and
loans
obto
by
would engage
make good
money
To
of
this
The
New
England
States,
New
to
Jersey,
The
would seem
have been
recommendation of Congress of the preceding NovemThey adjourned without any other action than the ber.
appointment of a committee
that purpose.
to
New
last
York, whose legislature had not assembled since the convention, and therefore had not appointed commis-
sioners, but of
selves confident,
is
not ascertained
was soon after urged there, to the conferring upon Congress the power of taxation, that such taxes would
upon the owners of
slaves.*
chiefly fall
Resolved
dent of
this
first until
was made
for a
1780,
Vol. II.
82
meeting
in
THE REPUBLIC.
August.
[1780.
The only
New
Hampshire.
a second,
its
own
as to
troops
fifth,
embar-
goes
sixth, to
by
the action of
the
by
were impracticable
whole excalled
to
upon
to inform
had taken,
beneficial only
and may be
totally defeated
by by the
any."
that each
year paid
not to be reissued,"
The
was
rest
may
as, in
tempt
lation,
to
tends
defeat the
them."
Thus
was
dissolved.
dream of sustaining unfunded paper eighth resolution recommended to not to emit any more bills on their own parthe
The
no case,
to
have
in circulation, at
bills.
any one
^T.
23.]
HAMILTOJ^.
the quantity assigned
83
more than
Congress.
Having passed,
ures
in
ap-
de-
no exertions ought
into execution the
to
be spared to
and carry
measures adopted
it
to
be essential
and
to put a
Union of these States be fixed in a more solid and permanent manner, that the powers of Congress be more clearly ascertained and defined and
lamitous war, that the
;
United States
preme head,
that
the
wants be seasonably made, and the necessary resources provided, and regularly and economically drawn forth
and expended
to that
end
it
recommended
to the States to
Avith
that
it
be
delegates in
Congress to confederate
powers
those
all
common and
come
and that
that they
form a perma-
officers,
and reg-
may
be seasonably
for an-
made, and
sufficient
funds of
money be provided
84:
THE EEPUBLIO.
[1780.
re-
sources of the nation may be regularly drawn forth and economically expended, and that the States be seasonably
called
upon
for supplies of
filling
the
army
during
in detail be-
opinion,
and as the
large,
government.
to a policy of
it
to
now assumed
is
mind
and unsupported, towards the chief object of Even his appeals to individual opinions seem
to
have
been disregarded or but half received. But these resolutions opened a great light amid the maze of error, to
as.
it
great subject of finance, with which his mind was full, had never been a topic of discussion between himself and
Washington.
ter, in
The importance of
his
promoting the objects proposed by the convention, dictated an earnest letter, written by Hamilton, in his
to
James Bowdoin,
:
the enlightened president of the council of Massachusetts " I am informed of a set of resolutions lately * * *
entered into by a convention of delegates from the four Eastern States, which, if rightly represented to me, and
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
means
to
85
be
affairs
do
infinite
whom
is
they originate.
may meet
Our
all
situation
and de-
mands
ities
all
our wisdom,
our virtue,
our energy.
many
serious perplex-
will
mounting them.
was
In Europe, by the last advices, there moment, where the chances were too equally
this
;
balanced.
On
enemy
is
are
too prosperous
in the
West
our
ments
hope.
may
As
fight against
but here
our best
will
to domestic dissensions,
I
though they
no
in
doubt embarrass,
them.
confess
We
and
to
exert ourselves
the utmost to
selves."
A
ment
convention of
to
all
the States
mean
government.
"
my
all but the mere municipal law of each State." Thus, as to the compass of the power to be conferred, his
reignty in
this
mode of
will
be seen, he went
accession
beyond them.
by
posed by Congress " Hamilton, regarding it as " a futile and senseless confederation," was looking to a new system. The convention proposed, that the States should
;
86
ers."
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
These powers, thus invested, would be revocable grants, at the continuing discretion of each State, both as
to the extent
which,
it
will
" a convention of all the States with full authority to conclude finaUi/ upon a general confederation." " The rea-
which
be vested with jylenijwtentiarT/ authority are, that the business may suffer no delay in the execution and may, in reality, come to effect. A convention may
agree upon a confederation
:
ever will." While contemplating an enlargement of the powers of Congress almost to the extent demanded by the interests of the nation, he also saw and indicated the necessity of an executive to ensure " method and energy
in
the administration."
forgets itself
when
"
it
He
proposed
an ex-
Looking carefully
at the position in
which he stood as
it
government,
is
re-
marked in
:
United
al-
ready formed well defined, profound, and comprehensive He opinions on the situation and wants of these States.
had clearly discerned the practicability of forming a confederated government, and adapting it to their peculiar condition, resources and exigencies. He had wrought out
for himself a political system, far in
ceptions of his
cotemporaries."
in a letter
tember, addressed to James Duane, in Congress, in conformity to a previous promise, dated at the Liberty Pole
:
i.
415.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
to
87
"
Agreeably
to give
my
promise, I
sit
down
you
my
They may,
them, and
You
will
judge of
you please of them. " The fundamental defect is a want of power in Congress. It is hardly worth while to show in what this conor to sists, as it seems to be universally acknowledged
use
;
make what
it
is
how
remedy
it.
It
may, however, be
said, that
it
an excess of the
;
spirit
which has made the particular States show a jealousy of and this jealousy has all power not in their own hands
led
them
according to their
cessity
;
own
a diffidence
Congress of their
own
powers,
resolutions, constantly
by which they have been timid and indecisive in their making concessions to the States, till they have scarcely left themselves the shadow of
power
a want of
sufficient
means
at
their disposal to
answer the public exigencies, and of vigor to draw forth them to depend on
their
engagements with
army
and credit with the army, to establish its dependence on each State, separately, rather than on
their influence
them
that
is,
" It
itive
may be pleaded
defin-
none,
could
in
The
manner
88
THE REPUBLIC.
power
to
[1780.
preserve
harm.
the highest acts of soverto
;
"
eignty,
the
&c.
ject for
powers are discretionary pov/ers, limited only by the obwhich they were given in the present case, the
;
The confedera-
made no
it
difference
for as
it
adopted,
" But,
had no operation.
I recollect
from what
of
it,
of that act
attended to
venience.
than as
it
and con-
It
to enter into
particular instances
only
"
mean
is
defective,
and requires
to be altered
it is
neither
The
to
powers given
Congress, and
feeble
and precarious.
There are
instances, without
sary for the general good, and which rise out of the
powers given
to Congress,
;
States,
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
You have
I
89
refer
you
your own
much
"
influence in the
afl'airs
it.
of the
army
they should
The
entire formation
and
it
For
this pur-
soever, ought to be
made by them.
It
may
be appre-
be dangerous to liberty. But nothing appears more evident to me, than that we run much greater risk of having a weak and disunited federal govhended, that
this
may
lines
pains w^e have taken to preserve the unity of the army. If any thing would hinder this, it would be the personal
melancholy and mortifying The forms of our State constitutions must consideration. always give them great weight in our aflTairs, and will
influence of the general
make
like,
it
common
and
to
form
a wide difference between our situnder one simple form of empire uation and that of an
general one.
There
government, distributed into counties, provinces, or districts, which have no legislatures, but merely magistratical
bodies to execute the laws of a
the danger
is,
common
sovereign.
Here
90
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
case, that of
and oppress the parts of which it is composed. In our an empire composed of confederative States,
each with a government completely organized within having
the
itself,
itself,
all
means
to
draw
is
its
subjects to a close
dependence on
It
is,
the danger
that the
common
members
together,
and direct
the
common
"
whole.
The
leagues
this.
proof of
other,
among the old Grecian republics are a They were continually at war with each
fell
and
for
want of union
bors.
They
resolutions
the interests
The Swiss cantons are another proof of the doctrine. They have had wars with each other, which would have
"
been
fatal to
to
erty,
and
exist in
will
America.
little
;
be powerful empires
we shall have
to cut
the leisure
we can wish
ample
"
to
against
authority
is
been a strong
Their phys-
^T.
23.]
HAiMILTON.
91
ical necessities,
contributed to
itself to
Each province
is
too inconsiderable
by
An analysis
of their present
ties
constitution
would show,
;
many
which
We
have
felt
to
combine
ill
common
cause.
The
Some have done a great deal others little, The disputes about boundaries, a prospect we have of future flattering testify how &c., tranquillity, if we do not frame in time a confederacy
striking.
The
should provide
All imposts
upon commerce
ought to be
use
;
laid
no power
solutely,
that
must
rule.
its
authority.
is,
Another defect
energy
in
in
our system
the administration.
;
want of a proper executive. Congress have the power too much in their own hands, and have kept meddled too much with details of every sort. Congress
is
it
it
forgets itself
when
It is
impossible that a
92
THE REPUBLIC,
it
is,
[1780.
body, numerous as
Two-thirds
know what
what has been transacted on former occasions. The members who have been more permanent, will only
hand has
to
and
The
times delay.
But
each
in
my
It
opinion, a
bad plan.
single
man,
in
more
zeal
activity,
would give us a chance of more knowledge, more responsibility, and, of course, more
Boards partake of a part of the
;
and
attention.
in-
their responsibility
abilities
They
will not
Men
pretensions
less
Avill
they will be
The members
less
do
it.
the plan of vesting the great executive departments of the State in the hands of individuals.
be, of course, at all times
As
these
men
will
we
lic
shall
in "
one constitution.
men
could
;
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
93
But
in
order to
this,
Congress,
by their manner of appointing them, and the hne of duty marked out, must show that they are in earnest in making
these offices, offices of real trust and importance.
"
I
fear a
little
way
of these
But they
as here-
rights
and powers
detail.
disencumbered of the
They would
upon
only observing
rule, that
all
the information
new meas-
made changes
third defect
is,
in the old.
"
army.
all
our
it.
so fully
enumerated the
I
refer
"
you
to that letter.
provision
made
for the
army,
the
same
;
dissolve
it is
now
mob
without
its
without discipline.
neglect of us
;
We
pressions of them.
us
we have now
ties,
worst construction to
slenderest
they do.
we
94
"
THE REPUBLIC.
The present mode of supplying
is
[1780.
the
army by
State
purchases,
our system.
the States will never be sufficiently impressed with our Each will make its own ease a primary obnecessities.
ject, the
The variety
of channels through which the business is transacted, will multiply the number of persons employed, and the opportunities of
From
the popular
spirit on which most of the governments turn, the State agents will be men of less character and ability nor will
;
among them
the
as there
in
Very
little
much diligence, care, or economy. money raised in the several States will
go into the continental treasury, on pretence that it is all exhausted in providing the quotas of supplies, and the
public will be without funds for the other
demands of
government.
greater,
feel
The expense
will
be
ultimately
much
and the advantage much smaller. We actually the insufficiency of this plan, and have reason to
it,
dread, under
"
that
These are the principal defects in the present system There are many inferior ones in to me. departments, and many particular the organization of but errors of administration, which might be pointed out the task would be troublesome and tedious, and if we had
now occur
much
now
me
our
from their present deplorable situation. The first step must be to give Congress powers competent to the public exigencies. This may happen in two
affairs
"
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
suppose to have been originally vested
95
ways
powers
in
them
and resting their conduct on countrymen and the necessity of the conjuncture the other, by calling immediately a convention OF all the States, with full authority to CONCLUDE FINALLY UPON A GENERAL CONFEDERATION, Stating
for the safety of the States,
to
evils arising
from a want
may
Their com-
to
be em-
The
first
want of power,
" I see
may
weight
in competition
of
con;
the
common
or lingering
remedy
suffer
The reasons
for
which
may
no delay
in the execution,
and may
in reality
come
to effect.
;
convention
may
agree upon
a confederation
will.
if
the
States,
individually,
hardly ever
We
at all events,
and a
vigorous one,
we mean
As
this
to succeed in the
I
contest and
be happy hereafter.
States to
said
before, to
engage the
to con-
comply with
; ; ;
96
fess to
THE EEPUBLIC.
[1780.
of supporting our
unoccupied lands
in
Congress, because
it is
necessary that
body should have some property, as a fund for the arrangements of finance and I know of no other kind that can
;
be given them.
"
The
confederation, in
my
;
Conand
which
among
individuals,
and
to raising
money by
internal
this
taxes.
It is
Congress
that relates to
and to the
management of
war, of raising
every respect
with them
&c., &c.
; ;
of equipping
fleets,
shall
be carried on
all
granting indulgences
laying prohibitions on
importing
and applying
to their
own
whom
&c.
of coining money, establishing banks on such terms, and with such privileges, as they think proper
funds,
;
appropriating
of
finance
making
and defensive,
treaties of
com-
merce, &c.,
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON:
97
certain perpetual
;
"
a land tax,
trade,
substantial existence,
schemes of finance.
present
"
What more
supplies
were necessary,
quotas.
step I
would recommend
is,
that
Con-
of state
a President
;
of
War
a President of Marine
;
a Financier
a Presi-
dent of Trade
instead of this
last,
a Board of Trade
may be
and guarded, and require prudence and experience, (more than other qualities,) for which Boards are very well
adapted.
"
first
offices,
men
of the
and such as have had the best opportunities of being acquainted with the several branches. General Schuyler, whom you mentioned, would make an excellent President
of
War
Marine
his
his
General McDougall a very good President of Mr. Robert Morris would have many things in favor for the department of Finance. He could, by
; ;
own
personal
influence,
I
give
men equally capamay be found for the other departments. " I know not if it would not be a good plan to let the
dare say,
;
Financier be President of the Board of Trade but he should only have a casting voice in determining questions
there. There is a connection between trade and finance, which ought to make the director of one acquainted with
the other
98
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
would depress
be alone.
"
trade.
These
officers should
and functions
as those in
France analogous
to them,
and
his
my
would be of
in-
conceivable
our
affairs
its
benefits
life
would be
very speedily
It
and energy to
million of
now
existing
is,
army
This must
practised in
be done by a
mode
which
is
There the inhabitants are thrown into classes of sixteen, and when the sovereign wants men, each of They raise a fixed sum of these classes must furnish one. money, and if one of the class is willing to become a
Sweden.
soldier,
he receives the
money and
this,
teer
if
none
is
found to do
falls,
a draft
made, and he
is
on
of
whom
this
the lot
obliged
to serve.
The minds of
;
heavy bounties they have been obliged to pay for men to serve a few months, must have disgusted them with this mode, and made them desirous of another, that will, once for all, answer the public purposes, and
kind
the
It
ought by
all
means
be attempted
plan,
and Congress should frame a general and press the execution upon the States. When the
;
.Et. 23.]
HAMILTON.
it
99
by a fundamental law
we want
to replace the
men whose
;
times of service
of January
shall
we may do
what they
The
general, in his
letter
already
upon
their credit in
in this country, to
the
other compensations
and not
States
if
is
would give
" The placing the officers upon half-pay, during life, would be a great stroke of policy, and would give Congres a stronger tie upon them than any thing else they
can do.
No man,
;
that reflects a
moment, but
will prefer
compensation
ence between
nor
is it
opposed to economy
the differwill
this,
be insignificant.
The
to
As
more than
one-half,
on the usual
Besides
is
already established.
this,
we
shall
find
it
100
to
THE REPUBLIC.
;
[1780.
and
all
the
the half-pay
late
list.
any one
am
persuaded he
army
"
substantial
an army
for with
is
in reality,
solid
as well as in
basis of authority
and consequence
me
it is
an
army
essential to the
American union.
"
else
;
is
army would
not, in a
which
taxes,
must be united,
tax in
credit.
"
As
every thing
power
to obtain
it.
way
cir;
cumstances.
her interest
We need
by France
She can
assist
she
is
convinced
or
it is
lending
us, herself,
by becoming our
fluencing Spain.
It
has been to
me
astonishing,
by by inhow any
of
man
affairs,
.-Et. 28.]
HAMILTON.
It
101
was
self-evident that
we had
We must,
first
then,
the
was done,
in time for
but
it
could not
its failure.
Here was an error of Congress. I have good reason measures were not taken in earnest early enough to procure a loan abroad I give you my honor,
"
to believe, that
:
that
from our
first
outset, I
thought as
do now
I
it
and
it
foresaw
a
tie
would be
essential,
but because
it
considered
upon
to
which
in
was
derived, and as a
mean
Europe.
Concerning the necessity of heavy pecuniary taxes, need say nothing, as it is a point in which every body is
;
agreed
nor
is
there
any danger,
any
Indeed,
if all
the paper
it
into the
treasury,
would neither do one nor the other. " As to a tax in kind, the necessity of
this principle,
it
results
from
sufli-
in circulation is
not a
cient representative
as a
medium,
obtain
due, or satisfy
its
just
This
is
done
;
those
in
Russia, Prussia,
Denmark, Sweden,
and
is
peculiarly
102
THE REPUBLIC.
" Congress, in calling for specific supplies,
[1780.
seem
to
have
had
this in
view
The
States, in general,
have undertaken
a mode, as
I
to furnish the
at-
supplies
by purchase,
have observed,
the
is,
in-
there-
recommend
necessity.
"
it
to the
States, as a
measure of absolute
that a respect-
The general
idea
have of a plan
is,
able
man
that Congress
should have in each State an officer to superintend the whole, and that the State collectors should be subordinate
and responsible
to them.
might be subject to the general direction of the quartermaster-general, or not, as might be not subject to him, he should be obliged to
returns to the President at
instruct
him
what proportion
It
may
times have
session,
power
on public account
for
it
would happen,
that the
in
which
case,
it
would be
eligible to dis-
money
so raised in
know
its
may
be raised to
this like
;
we cannot proceed
without, and
tEt. 23.]
HAMILTON.
must give place
to greater.
It
is,
103
besides, prac-
less evils
tised
It
why
not in this
may
but
ments
taxes
To
this,
it
may
ment, and
"
so
now,
in
How
far
it
may be
certainly determined
by the experiment
but
it
is
of so
When
saw the subscriptions going on to the bank established for supplying the army, I was in hopes it was only the embryo of a more permanent and extensive establishI
ment.
It
But
I shall
be disappointed.
ciples of a bank.
The
it
directors of
bank notes
as I to
expected
in con-
sequence of which,
tion of a particular
be a mere subscrip-
sum of money,
pose.
"
try,
where
it
and private
credit.
An
attempt to
establish
it
in France,
under the
auspices of Mr.
the kingdom.
;
We
effects
in
America
104
sive
THE REPUBLIC.
experiment proves the
is
[1780.
futility
of the attempt.
Our
new money
it
has, in
some
had.
The reason
that the
many ways,
find
it
their
moneyed men have not an They may even, credit. The interest to undermine it.
its
only certain manner to obtain a permanent paper credit, by is to engage the moneyed interest immediately in it,
making them contribute the whole or part of the stock, and giving them the whole or part of the profits. " The invention of banks, on the modern principle,
originated in Venice.
The Bank of
England unites public authority and faith, with private and hence we see what a vast fabric of paper credit Had it not been for credit is raised on a visionary basis. this, England would never have found sufficient funds to carry on her wars but with the help of this, she has done, and is doing, wonders. The Bank of Amsterdam is on a
; ;
similar foundation.
"
our moneyed
And why cannot we have an American bank ? Are men less enlightened to their own interest,
1
is
government, which
such a scheme.
;
them
It is
America
but
this
their insti-
bank
it
Have they
in
not
government, and
the issue
of the cause
Let the government endeavor to inspire that confidence, by adopting the measures I have recommended, or others equivalent to them. Let it exert itself
1
to establish a
good plan
of executive administration,
to
JEt. 23.]
HAMILTOIT.
to obtain, at all events, a foreign loan.
in
lOo!
force,
If these
things
were
it
would give
their
new
its
respectability,
diffidence.
"
The
for
first in-
stance,
plies
;
latter.
Every
bank
after
it
established,
will
take care
it
of
itself,
and government
may make
"
can for
itself.
The
and make
their plan
it
a business.
fittest
The
subscribers to
found
"
and
may
be interwoven.
The
outlines of
my
which we
will
suppose
to
but
should be in
in
;
specie or plate.
three divisions
in Virginia, Philadelphia,
and
at
Boston
have a right to issue bank notes, bearing two per cent, interest for the whole of their stock but not to exceed it.
;
These notes
oftener
;
may
and the
faith
bank.
It
operations
and
The advantages of
bank may
consist in this
in
106
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
in the
money
by
at interest,
in
purchas-
ing lives
annuities, as practised in
England, &c.
The
company
is
may employ
deal
more money than they have specie in stock, on the credit of the real property which they will- b^ye in other
use.
This
money
will
be employed, either in
also,
fulfilling
their contracts
they will
to purchase plate
and
bul-
profit.
"
make
the
interest, to obtain
any
time,
" If
loan,
its
it
should
influence,
and
facilitate
engagements.
If gov-
to raise a
sum of money
it
government
make
would be a
I
master stroke.
popular contests
not despair of
"
Things of
;
this
and
if
its
success
but
instituted for a
term of years, by
way
"
money be
for a
shorter.
it
temporary transfer of
to a
particular
company
^T.
23.]
IIAMILTON^.
107
in in
no
nor could
it,
our
circumstances, be an object to
it
of a knot of individuals,
it
them.
A bank of this kind, even in its commencement, would answer the most valuable purposes to government,
"
and
will
to
the proprietors
in
It
its
exceed calculation.
will
promote commerce, by
want,
more extensive medium, which we greatly I mean a more extensive, valuable medium. We have an enormous nominal one at
furnishing a
in
our circumstances.
this
time
but
it is
only a name.
we can
this
in others
otherwise
;
scheme
" I
but
think
has enough in
its
favor to be
worthy of
jects I
trial.
have introduced.
come
and
my
farther thoughts,
particularity.
endeavor
to give
" I
am
persuaded a
solid confederation, a
this
winter.
" If a
convention
is
called, the
all
the States
its
to
be prepared to receive
deter-
views of Congress.
novelty even
is
in
human
false,
affairs,
when
If a general
way
is
and
this obstructs
108
THE REPUBLIC.
is
[1780.
necessary
if
it
sake of change.
This
is
an
a bad one,
and that things do not go right on this account. The measure of a convention would revive the hopes of the
people, and give a
new
which
utility.
may
The Eastern
Congress
others.
"
:
mode
to
And
in future,
my
to
dear
sir,
two things
let
me recom:
for the
conduct of Congress
army
to maintain
measures with
The manner in which a thing is done, has more influence than is commonly imagined. Men are governed by opinion this opinion is as much influenced by appearances as by realities. If a government appears
:
to be confident of
its
own
powers,
it
is
the surest
way
to
it
inspire the
same confidence
in others.
still
If
it is
diffident,
may
greater diffidence in
others,
and that
its
that a
kindness consists as
much
manner
as in the thing.
ill
The
grace,
satisfac-
tion or gratitude.
An attention to this idea is of more importance than it may be thought. I, who have seen all ihe workings and progress of the present discontents, am
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
109
convinced that a want of this has not been among the most inconsiderable causes.
"
You
will perceive,
my
dear
sir, this
letter
is
hastily
written,
as to a
mem-j
clamor
at the pre-
situation to
remedy public
as truth,
disorders,
is
who wishes
for nothing so
much
and who
to
have not
to add,
even time
that
I
It
&c. am, very truly and affectionately, dear will be observed that Hamilton proposed that the
convention, to carry into effect his views, should meet within two months, " authorized to conclude finally on a
general confederation."
gress
There
is
little
avowed
successful.
What
The conclusion of
Ham-
Released ilton anticipated as a certain consequence. from the pressure of war, with a small national debt
with burdens so light as not to be felt, with no motives to fetter industry in its competition with the European
world,
their
new
institutions,
conformed
to their
new
by a
happy
mad
philosophy,
become
by
110
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
belligerent nations,
in a firm neutrality
gaining
power
and respect
to their
expanding empire,
were some of the blessings which the people of the United States would have derived
and morals elevated,
from
this early
these
their
honor saved
which he
his life
lived,
was devoted, were doomed to suffer long and much more before When the power of the his counsels were adopted. Union was least, the jealousy of it was greatest and it was objected to Hamilton then, as it has been since, that
;
little
measures
to
careful ex-
more untrue.
It
An
this
ground
to excite
distrust
was
The
maligner,
scoffer at
Washington.*
the recent convention at Boston
The proceedings of
New
York.
"
Our embarrassments
in those
in the prosecution
of
the war," he
defect of
power
;
who
jurisdiction
for while
re-
commendation,
council."
federation.
we
He
the Senate, to
whom
these proceedings
were
referred, re
Appendix,
F.
JEt. 23.]
HAMILTON.
"
Ill
peixeive,"
it
We
stated,
in the
government of these
Congress are au-
that, unless
and enabled
tions, the
common
Want
fect,
"
Some
powers con" I
by
the
Roman
left
people on theirs."
made
gall
is
great interest to be
it,
obtained
difficulty
General
McDou"
appointed
my
stead."
:
A spirit
common
Houses.
They begin
it
to talk of a Dictator
tators, as if
was a thing
that
on.
I
To
shall
should be appointed."
mad
project," as
Hamilton
discour-
pronounced
aged
also
it
it,
met
He
in the
it.
Governor Clinton
opposed
The
project
The
The
112
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
The
pose and agree, that Congress during the present war, or until a perpetual confederation shall be completed, should
power which they may deem necessary for prosecution of the war," and, that whenever
pear to them, that any State
tions,
is
the effectual
it
shall
ap-
deficient in
its
contribu-
they should " direct the commander-in-chief without delay to march the army, or such part of it as may
be requisite, into such State, and, by military force, comThe only proviso was, pel it to furnish its deficiency."
power should be concurred in by the four Eastern States. This resolution passed by an unanimous vote of the legislature, the last day of its
that this grant of unlimited
session.
New York
seaport
still
was now
Her
in possession of the
Rash as this proposal was, it was only to carry into effect upon a more extended scale a recent precedent of an important State. A few months previous, martial law
was proclaimed
in
offi-
fruitful
in
Madison, recently elected to Congress by Virginia, proposed,* that the requisite supplies for the army, having
been proportioned as accurately as practicable, " be impressed with vigor and impartiality, and paid for in certificates not transferable, redeemable at
an
Madison^s Debates,
55.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
113
it
would be a
It
increase."
was
tv
of
forced loans
CHAPTER
During
this period, hostilities
XXIII.
in
South
Carohna.
Maryland and Delaware, with a small body of artillery, under the veteran De Kalb, delayed and divided for
want of
collecting
subsistence,
moved on
in
small
detachments,
At a
ford
House,
course
to
the
more
fertile
The
militia of
name of
his resi-
whether
;
to take
?
the field
and
when he
camp
The
army command.
fall
Greene
as his successor.
* Marshall,
341.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
Full
II5
portant station.
this
his
military genius
affiiirs
been
lost.
"
Our
to
the language of a
member
War.
"
So
they did
when you
I
took the
goynade.
can only
his abilities,
by
changed
This
mind, that " the laurels of the North must not be exfor the willow of the South." f
command was
consulting Washington, an act which confirmed intimations of the revival of the cabal against him. At the
close of the previous year, General Sullivan
wrote to the
raised
commander-in-chief,
.against
stating
thg^
"the
faction
seventy-seven was not yet destroyed. The members are waiting to collect strength, and seize
in
him
some favorable moment to appear in force. I speak not from conjecture, but certain knoAvledge. Their plan is, to take every method of proving the danger from a com-
army, and alarm the people with imaginary evils; nay, they will endeavor to convert your virtues into arrows, with which they will seek to torment you.
The
persuade Congress that the military power of America should be placed in three or four diffi^rent
is,
next step
to
hands
each having a
diflferent
commander
answer to Congress
15, 1780.
Southern War,
i.
224
note.
116
THE REPUBLIC.
commander from enslaving power of Congress, with the
[1780.
it
commanders,
in politics,
This
is
a refinement
virtue,
which
de-
Greece or
Rome
to
could never
his
boast."
"
He
cautioned
Washington
be on
guard,
Appearances
may
were would become your secret and bitter, though unprovoked, enemies ? If we view them now, we cannot help lamentso friendly used, as
ing the
" I
want of
sincerity in
mankind."
General Greene wrote
doubt not
in
am very
is
confident,"
is
camp,*
as MiflSin
connected with
its
being a retaking,
is,
to
army may
wish
may
to
Soon
after,t he writes
from Philadelphia
says, "
As
others consider
lency's operations.
ality
am now
fully
of what
came away."
said,
" Mifflin has got the Massachusetts delegates into his house
in
it is
with a
in that quarter.
Depend
Public
upon
it,
business
in a
wretched
train."
in the
The rising influence of this cabal had been seen menaced suspension of Greene, looking beyond him
* Washington's
Wi-itings, vi. 492.
f
to the
March
28. 1780.
.Ex. 23.]
HAMILTOI^.
IIT
commander-in-chief.
its
powers and
to
its
numbers.
states
:
La Luzerne,
in
a despatch
Vergennes,
"
Warm
of
debates ensued.
too
was
would be putting
in those
much power
;
in a
was already
for
too great
that
even
afforded motives
alarm
at his
mercy
that
it
man
temptations.
It
This
number would be
the delays
which
in Congress.
powers,
it
much
circumscribed.
De
command on
the
Two
days
after,
without time to
moved by
The
in-
by pursuing an
indirect route,
and
Colonel Otho
in a letter to
Hamilton
little
15
note.
f Marshall,
i.
342.
118
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
with
his
small
command by an
The
manders,
as
first
South
Carolina,
was
successful.
Misled by
procla-
to
Many
were
acquiesced
others
fled
the State.
These
exiles
a
his
a continental regiment
to
prompted
to this
country, but by
Of
army.
To check
this desertion,
Rawdon
issued an
West
* Ramsay's
S.
ii.
114.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
and
offering a
119
deserters,
reward
if
for the
head of each of
taken ahve.
To compel
the
under him
in a
common jail.
Such a policy produced its natural effect. Sumter's small band was soon augmented, encouraged by partial
success.
Rocky
alert in
after,
enemy
his
and soon
of Mecklenburg routed,
Hanging Rock. day that the Virginians joined Gates, an express from Sumter apprised him that he was in pursuit of an escort of supplies to Rawdon. Weak as Gates was in
their adherents at the
On
the
men, he detached a party of infantry under Colonel Woolford, to his aid, and decided to co-operate with him
by the advance of his army at nightfall. The fifteenth day of August had closed, when Gates broke up his encampment, intending to take post between Saunders' Creek and Green Swamp, eight miles from Camden, hoping the next day to surprise the enemy, who were concentrated there.
A
to
fill
ofli-
cers in
command
up
in force.
The
battles of
won
without cavalry,
and, such
was
dispense with
with an
" If
disciplined,
ers.
the precursor
120
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
Gates, indeed,
Such is the comment of Henry Lee.* supposed his force numbered seven
Wilhams,
his
thousand
men,
which
adjutant-general,
to three thou-
returns, only
fit
amounted
Armand's dragoons and three companies of Harrison's " There are enough for our artillery, being regulars.
purpose," was his answer, and he gave the order to march,
which began
at ten at night.
spirit
of the country
for
his
mounted
rifles
was ranging
Here
west,
among
the
hills
Savannah
Camden.
he took the
day of Gates's
of nineteen
arrival at
Clermont.
consisted
hundred
body,
his adver-
With
this small
would add
to the
numbers of
With this purpose, he moved from Camden at the hour Gates, unaware of his arrival, moved towards it. The usual precaution of sending forward scouts was not taken by Gates. He proceeded on his dark route and at two in the morning, the
sary, he resolved to surprise him.
;
advance of the
the woods.
hostile armies,
approaching
in
column.
The second
Delaware on
Stevens,
under
Gist.
161.
.T. 23.]
HAMILTON.
121
on the
left.
was made, Gates was amazed by information derived from a prisoner, that Cornwallis was at the head of the British army, marching upon him. The general officers were forthwith convened in the rear of
Ere
this disposition
the line.
"
What
is
to be
is it
not
"
Clermont, there to
On
the
two ap-
narrowed ground
of the
first
to
form a second
his position
first
This consisted
gallant Small-
wood.
with
De Kalb took
right.
lines.
Gates on
Stevens
the attack.
and second
was
oi-dered to
commence
small
when
The Virginia
in vain
on
whom
it
down
their
The
good
followed.
The enemy
out of sight,
in vain, the
be outrun.
there, as
He
was
said, to
troops.
122
THE REPUBLIC.
from the
[1780,
all
of
to assemble the
neighboring
he
made
his rapid
way to
Hillsborough,
" a horn."-''
!
Too
to retreat,
when
retreat
fully jus-
by the
flight
of the
militia,
The charge of Rawdon, in command of the British left, was firmly met by General Gist. Again and again the bayonet was pushed. No ground
was gained.
Webster, having put the
the
first
militia to
flight,
by the dashing sudden charge, these brave soldiers Outnumbered, they again action. broke, and again formed to cover and support their comrades of the second brigade in close conflict with Rawdon, Cornwallis, perceiving the Americans had but a few
and renewed the
straggling horse, darted on with his dragoons, his infantry
The utmost
gallantry of
At
last,
leaving
De Kalb on
the battle
field,
a prisoner, pierced
gallant
aid,
of
warmest
In
were
killed or
wounded.
"
almost destroyed.
Williams writes to
pletely routed.
were truly unfortunate," Otho Hamilton a few days after, " and comthe militia
i.
We
t Marshall,
347.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
123
enemy every
advantage over our few regular troops, sition and gallant behavior have gained them the applause,
as well of our successful foes, as of our
runaway
Our
happened.
field,
knew
no
relief
arms against us and many of our fugitive officers and men were disarmed by those faithless villains, who had
flattered
us with
promises of joining us
against
the
enemy."
Enclosing
ilton his recent
Ham-
"
The
letter
accompanying
this
comment on
fancy,
cured
and he
best
bulwark of American
liberty.
1
man
am
enemy person-
my
char-
acter
as
therefore,
what
;
from an enemy
and common
sense.
His best
by
by
absurdity.
It is
made by these. more complete picture of military 'equally against the maxims of war and
nature, and his attack *
common
sense.
left
We
his
left,
is
his left
ran
away, and
uncovered.
all
turned on the
*
has in
to be seen
179.
124:
THE REPUBLIC.
in truth, the
[1780.
Though,
little
known very
his
of what became of
army.
Had
he placed his
con-
militia
on
his right,
tinental troops
on
his
where
it
would have been more secure, and would have opposed the enemy and instead of
;
going backward
gone forward.
have happened.
when he ordered to attack, would have The reverse of what has happened might
But was there ever an instance of a
there ever so precipitous a flight
in three
army ?
And was
One
It
man
at his time
I
But
it
think, will
begin to agree
?
with me.
But what
?
will be
done by Congress
is
Will he
be changed, or not
opinion of him.
If he
You know my
us have, withconstituted
stake
my
him but
fair play.
But above
On
ward.
the
to a near friend
" This
am
less
misfortune aftects
me
it is
my
temper
and because
think
this
change of system
* Tarleton,
i.
will only
be produced by misfortune." *
1.
"Not
breakino' in
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
He would
to possess
125
Wash"
most
and
to
where
baffled
be
by
the difficulties
the chief in
"
command
here.
culties
That your excellency may meet with no such diffithat your road to fame and fortune may be
;
He
an-
nounced
to
Tarleton, with
him the surprise and defeat of Sumter by much carnage, two days after his own.
to
draw good out of misThe suggestions in the letter of the twentieth of the last month in relation to the army, were now before Congress. It was of the utmost moment to press the subject upon that body. With this view, five days after the preceding letter to Duane, he wrote in behalf of Washington to the President " I am happy to find that the late disaster in Caro-
fortunes
been so great as
its first
features indicated.
however, adds
itself to
many
others, to
fatal conse-
quences of depending on
militia.
defence as
tempted,
it
oflTence
must prove
and ruinous.
No
militia
" His second error was moving an army, consisting of young corps and un3.
his to
army
4.
make an
to engage,
my, who, by a
left
wing
into
state of confusion,
from which
never recovered."
12Q
will
THE REPUBLIC.
ever acquire the habits necessary to
resist
[1780.
a regular
are only
force.
Even
war
and
enemy.
The
firmness requisite for the real business of fighting is only serto be attained by a constant course of discipline and
have never yet been witness to a single instance and it is most earthat can justify a different opinion nestly to be wished, that the liberties of America may no
vice.
I
;
longer be trusted, in any material degree, to so precaI cannot but remark, that it gives rious a dependence.
me
still
pain to find the measures pursuing at the southward turn upon accumulating large bodies of militia, inall
making a decided
effort to
have a
permanent
In my ideas of the true system of war force. object ought to be to have a good the southward, at the army rather than a large one. Every exertion should be
made by North
Carolina, Virginia,
ware, to raise a permanent force of six thousand men, exclusive of horse and artillery. These, with the occasional
aid of the militia in the vicinity of the scene of action,
will not only suffice to
enemy,
them
to
com-
relinquish a part of
To
not aim
;
we
derive
more
eflfectual
abroad and by attempting too much, instead of going forward, we shall go backward. Could such a force be once on foot, it would immediately make an inconceivable
change
in the face
of
aff"airs,
the enemy, but in expense, consumption of provisions, and waste of arms and stores. No magazines can be equal to
the
demands of an army of militia and none ever needed economy more than ours. Speaking of magazines, I beg
;
^T.
23.]
EAMILTON.
it
127
importance to enIn
is
of
infinite
in the
Southern States.
and
relief."
few days
after,* a
Washington shows the impression made upon him by Hamilton's letters, though his mind did not come up to his
chief and leading suggestion.
"
We
Duane
ters.
wrote, "
Considerable progress
made
in that
which
is
the
permanent army.
essential
;
Congress unite
the surest and
I find
sentiment, that
it is
that
it is
the only
New York
have fallen
This letter was acknowledged in Washington's behalf by Hamilton, on the fourth of October
:
" r
thank you,
my
dear
I
sir,
for
your
teenth of September.
me
made
in the business
of raising
me through
In
my
letter to
Con-
recommend a
'
draft for
war
one year
inadmissible.^
You
will perceive,
however, that
an army for
my
arguments looks
to
the war, and any other idea crept in from an apprehension that this plan
The
present junc-
128
ture
is
THE REPUBLIC.
in
[1780.
my
1
army, and
rary one.
It
me
still
This
is
evils
of our
feel
from the
I
am
us.
convinced,
it
is
Congress
should have an
efficient
power.
The want of
it
must ruin
"
us,
The
by
satisfaction I
always
al-
layed,
Supine-
make
When we receive a we are apt to fancy we and when we do gain any little
decisive,
we imagine
it
is
immediately to end.
The
history of the
war
is
a history
Would to God am not misif I This winter, here. they were to end taken, will open a still more embarrassing scene than we
of false hopes, and temporary expedients.
have
little
we
Henry
conquests.
am
far
from being
satisfied that
we
shall
be prepared to repel
his attempts.
my
dear
sir,
are un-
necessary
am
affairs in the
same
"
and
The interview
iET. 23.]
HAMILTON.
knew with
certainty
129
sive,
what was
to
be expected. We could only combine possible plans on the supposition of possible events, and engage mutually to do every thing in our power against the next campaign.
Happy
to
my
friends, I
upon
who were
'*
false
them
in so
arduous a cause.
You cannot
forget the
first
opinions which
were current on
seem
this floor
during the
We
to part with
us,
it
with reluctance.
It
indeci-
and the
plain.
and,
fatal delusion,
may end
here."
army
"
any
State,
German
battalion be re-
to
be
annexed
direct.
commander-in-chief should
consist of four
artillery,
That
the
regular
army should
each regiment
Vol. II.
130
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
and each infantry regiment also of nine companies and The regiment of artificers of eight comof sixty men.
The quotas of
its
the several
States were
fixed.
Each
command
regiments, no
new
was recommended,
by the
first
by
was also resolved, that from the time the reform of the army takes place, the officers should be entitled to half pay for seven years in specie, or its equivalent money, and This plan was to to the lands promised in seventy-six.
be submitted to the opinion of the commander-in-chief.
On
receiving this
ilton, in
The
but the
the
object
against the
officers
effects,
by an ample
those
who
straitened
who
pay
as the
politic, the
most
eflfectual."
by a prospect of permanent independence, the officers would be tied to the service, and would submit to many momentary privations, and to the inconveniences which the situation of public affairs makes unavoidable." " If the objection," it was added, " drawn
" Supported
^Et. 23.]
HAMILTON.
this
131
measure being incompatible with the genius of the government, was thought insurmountable," instead of half pay for seven years, whole
pay
for the
conclusion of peace.
same term was proposed, payable after the It was to be clearly understood, were
" to
of their pay
expense,
it
made good." In answer to the apprehended was observed, that " nothing could be more
economy
are the same."
In respect to the proposed number of regiments, it was shown, that the aggregate number of men was too
small, reducing the total rank
and
file
too low.
The
force
of the enemy, estimated at near twenty thousand men, rendered necessary for effective purposes, a total of thirty
thousand.
To
a detailed modification of
the regiments
was
number of offidis-
cers suggested.
consist two-thirds of
Two partisan corps were earnestly recommended, one under Colonel Armand, the other under Major Lee whose respective merits were set forth. An ininfantry.
crease of one
company
to
each regiment of
artillery
was
ser-
The
point
in the
term of
one year
and the
evils
of temporary engage-
"
The
alternative, if ab-
be substituted hereafter."
The
and incorporation of the regiments, it was wished, had been retained " under the direction of Conreduction
gress.
to
it
to the States
is
contrary
my
it is
an adherence
to the State
132
THE EEPUBLIC.
I fear, it will
;
[1780.
be productive of great
requisite, the business
and
it is
spection."
its
intended
effect.
The arrange-
ment of the army it proposed was essentially adopted. The selection of the officers was to be made conjointly by the commander-in-chief and by the commanding officer
of the Southern department, with the officers of each
State.
Where no agreements
for
life,
was
half
to determine.
The reduced
also those
pay
and
who
should continue in
permanent army and a prowere accomplished on paper. Notwithstanding the time which had elapsed since the battle of Camden, nothing had been done in respect to Hamilton is the command of the Southern department.
seen,
on the
first
who,
in selecting
it
and a better
spirit
With
new army
The day
were
re-
JET.2S.]
HAMILTON.
He
informed him that
it
I33
was not
own
This choice,
when made
public,"
La
Fayette relates,
to the high
"
Congress and the country supposed the share of friendship in the choice, greater than it had been. Many suspended or
flatly
degree
was generally approved by the army, but not in which it was afterwards applauded.
it
was universally
all
acknowledged, that
abilities
the
him
command." Having
which the commander-in-chief reposed on him, Hamilton, on the twenty-second of October, in the name of Washington, wrote General
confidence
"
Greene Uninformed as
officially, in
I
terms of largest
am
in that quarter,
will
I
be in our power to
the war,
can give you no particular instructions, but must leave you to govern yourself entirely according to your own
prudence and judgment, and the circumstances
in
which
you
find yourself
am
will offer you embarrassments of a singular and complicated nature, but I rely upon your abilities and exertions for every thing your means will enable you to
effect.
I
command
of your appointment, and requesting them to give you such powers and such support, as your situation and the good of the service demand." He apprised him that Steuben had been ordered to join him, to aid " in the for-
who would
prin-
compose
his
army."
The
letter to
Congress was
134
also written
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
by Hamilton. During all this period Hamilton's thoughts were full of the great, comprehensive measures he had delineated to Duane. Writing on the
twelfth of October to Sears, with
whom
he had formed
New
York, he remarked
was much obliged to you, my dear sir, for the letter Avhich you did me the favor to write me since your return I am sorry to find that the same spirit of into Boston.
" I
It is
necessary
we
we
game.
It is
can be much longer supported on the present footing. We must have a government with more power. We must
have a tax
in kind.
We
loan.
must have a bank, on the true principles of a bank. must have an administration distinct from Congress, and
in the
We We
hands of single
all
men under
their orders.
We
must,
above
"
I
affairs
but
apprehend
spirit.
old
We
seem
to
They
least
will,
as
a primary object.
those
who
love
their
this object
with
The
now
said to be
My fears are
is
my
hopes
We
to
be a Congress of the
of peace.
: ;
JET.2S.]
HAMILTON.
it
135
it
;
God send
and
fall
may
be true.
We
till
want
the
but
if
the idea
if we do
profound
sleep,
awaken
acter."
us next campaign.
This
is
On
to
Duane
" I
am
sorry to find
we do
proper remedies to
bility
Convinced,
sysit is
as I
tem
more the effect of constitution than of judgment. With the sentiments I entertain of Gates, I cannot but take
pleasure in his removal
in
;
have
Greene,
expect
much from
affair, in
The
part Con-
my
;
hope they
situation,
sur-
rounded with
difficulties, will
need support.
Of your
am
He
"
also
wrote
in behalf of to a
third of
October
Your Southern affairs wear a most disagreeable aspect, and prove more and more the necessity of renouncing
that feeble system
this
country to so
perplexing a
cils
crisis.
seem
to
me an advantage
sufficient for
for they
by spreading themselves
out, as
now
doing, they
136
will
THE REPUBLIC.
render themselves vulnerable every where.
[1780.
But
see
we
You
command.
think
am
Lee's corps
will
go
to the southward.
believe
it
be found
very useful.
officer
The corps
head of
itself is
at the
letter
it
Congress
"
at this time
We
The most
flatter-
Meade and
myself, and
we
world
make
there
the
From
all I
army and
many very
them.
said,
them
for
some time
past,
am
not,
however, without
some apprehension,
may show
Our
;
itself again,
and gentlemen
who
.^T. 23.]
HAMILTON.
137
Bland
is
in the
Grayson says
Con-
gress
we have had since the first. Our dear Laurens respects many of the members and General Greene's ap;
pointment,
believe,
is
we have heard
there
were
members much
to excuse
General Gates.
can.
him
all
we
We
we
could already.
entirely deranged,
Our finances are money in the treasury. I believe they are a subject of much consideration and puzzlement the supplies of the army are also matters of present attention, but I don't know what will
Apropos, you delivered him
letter.
little
my
is
and there
or no
be done.
stroyed
is
hope
we shall, by Christmas, have some West Indies, if the moth have not deit is
a quantity
said has
It
much
to
at the
South.
The
a proper application
defeat.
This, I fear,
is
much even
to
I
hope.
The sending
tion.
I
the baron
is
considered, as far as
have
am
just
about to mount
my
horse,
and therefore
unto you in
shall
say but
I
little
more.
Laurens
will write
a few days,
rences.
new
occurto
My
the
and
same
you.
May you
&c."
be long happy.
My
most respectful
affection-
Most
truly
138
THE REPUBLIC.
[1780.
letter
was
at the
from La Fayette proposing an attack upon New York, to commence by the capture of Fort Washington. The
state of opinion in
the necessity of
stated, " to
France was referred to, as indicating some decisive measure, and his own wish undertake an expedition which may wear a
brilliant aspect."
Prudence forbade
it.
" It
is
impossi-
Hamilton replied on the thirteenth of October, in Washington's name, "my dear marquis, to desire more
ble,"
ardently than
;
happy stroke but we must consult our means rather than our wishes, and not endeavor to better our affairs by attempting things which, for want of success, may make them worse. We are to lament that there has been a
misapprehension of our circumstances in Europe, but, to
endeavor
that
we
we do
not injure
it
more.
So
far as
my
information
would not be warranted." to warrant the atA feigned attack upon tempt, the purpose was resumed. Staten Island was intended, and while the British forces
Subsequent information seeming
were drawn
Hamilton
first
off,
a descent upon
New York
at night.
Or-
by
of November.
corps,
cise
was
instructions framed
by him.
Moylan
to
to secure the
Wayne
to
march
his di-
Newark.
to
Knox
most proper
body of troops on
relief
of horses.
iET. 23.]
HAMILTON.
carriages.
to a
139
mounted on good
at "West Point
and
detachment
White
Plains, to
march
at
an
to
main army,
This party
which was
move
to the
composed of the light infantry under La Fayette was to attack Fort Washington at night, between whom and Hamilton it had been concerted, that the latter was to
have a
command
hibits, in all
its details,
uncommon
military talent.
The
Washington
"
Some
time last
fall,
when
I
my
and how
as a
much
was
my
my character
sol-
would be glad
seemed
officer,
to furnish
There was a battalion without a field the command of which, I thought, as it was accito offer.
me
it
without inconvenience.
made
an application for
who
in-
the giving
formed me of your refusal on two principles, one, that me a whole battalion might be a subject of dis;
satisfaction
pen
"
to
me
The
project
in
contemplation affords
another opportunity.
press
me
it.
to desire ardently to
I
in
my power
to im-
prove
command
140
THE REPUBLIC.
proportioned to
[1780.
may now be
my rank,
objection ceases to operate, as during the period of establishing our winter-quarters, there will
material business
will, in
besides which,
my
me away from the army in a few may be expected back early next month. My command may consist of one hundred and fifty or two hundred men, composed of fifty men of Major
any
case, call
Gibbes' corps,
fifty
fifty
more from the light infantry, Major major. The hundred men from here my Gibbes to be which will may move on Friday morning towards
or an hundred
,
"I suggest this mode, to avoid the complaints that might arise from composing my party wholly of the
light infantry,
of that corps,
for
it.
who on
which might give umbrage to the officers this plan can have no just subject
idea
"
The primary
may
to
to attempt with
my
detachment Bayard's
undertake
it,
Should
it
we
to
arrive early
enough
should prefer
any thing
else,
itself,
success
this
would be productive.
eligible, (as there is
we
make
reason to apprehend,)
my
corps
may
my
on a supposition of
partly true.
I flatter
my
my
military charoffi-
taken,
would be unreasonable.
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
method of making the request
141
to avoid
I
shall
much
own
to
incli-
nation,
and
not,
do any
thing that
less,
neverthe-
wishes correspond
with mine."
Two
Hamilton wrote
to his
fellow aid,
"
Never
was a
success.
plan,"
The
own
On
Pennsylvania
near Morris-
line
at
Pompton
the
objects being to
Island and
New HampWest
upon the
Hudson
Point
head-quarters
the
were
to be in the vicinity at
New
Windsor.
On
him
to
to Hamilton, that
" I
know," he writes,
for you,
and gratitude
my
dear Hamilton
I
perhaps imagine.
am
sure, he
something
he certainly
friend,
Before
campaign
was your
the world.
my
second voyage,
my
sentiment has
142
THE REPUBLIC.
La Fayette observed
any other
in
I
[1780.
" If,
I
would
is,
suit
I
better than
the world,
Hamilton
whom
should like to
his services
His know-
ledge of your opinions and intentions on military arrangements his love of discipline the superiority he would
; ;
have over
shall
all
operate
together
and
his
are
calculated to render
you.
His
utility
would be increased by
preferment
and on other points he could render important services. An adjutant-general ought always to be with the commander-in-chief.
in
your family
and
circumstances.
On
my
dear general,
Richmond
of.
" Colonel
At
least
it
Should
this
;
take
I
place, a
new
and
beg leave
ment
to Colonel Hamilton.
His services
may
not be less
if
Washington
I
office
did
for reasons
cur to you."
" the
A principal
was
second
officer in the
line,
and, that
it
would have
^T.
23.]
HAMILTON.
whom
143
some of
are
full
colonels, to
have a lieutenant-
A
ton
:
La
went to Morristown, where I met the general, and knowing that my letter could not reach him under some days, I became regardless of your wishes, and made
a verbal application in
my own
express to
I
felt,
my
I
dear friend,
how
when
knew from
became warmer on
have wished
my
wanted the general to allow sending an express, who would have overtaken the
to be,
me
and
letter, as it
was
in the
hands of General
it
St. Clair
but
to
be a convenient measure,
a
little
and,
confess, 1
I
blinded on
its
pro-
priety.
affair,
when
"
and
in
Now
for the
voyage
to France.
Congres? seem
re-
in the
I
many members.
be for you.
know
me employed
fixed upon,
paying
visits.
As soon
and
;
as the business
I
is
I shall
in case
come with
all
possible speed
for
diately that
of operations.
you
go,
my dear sir,
give you
all
144
THE REPUBLIC.
Europe
I
[1780.
am
possessed
Besides
many
may
introduce you
to
my
as well as of the
word,
my
good
friend,
any thing
mission
my power
shall
be
entirely yours."
was a loan from France. strongly urged by Hamilton upon Congress, had prompted him to advise another visit to France by La Fayette, whose influence was supposed to have been increased by a recent change in the ministry. The idea was entertained, that Hamilton might be associated with him in this interesting mission.
charms
for the
marquis, and
it
was decided
that a
member
choice
of Washing-
was between was chosen unaniLaurens wrote mously on the eleventh of December. " Your excellency will not be a little to Washington
be appointed.
The
The
latter
me
and
soliciting the
necessary
was
in great
and that
which
to
feel
known
and
I
Congress
assured,
total
in-
was
I
that there
failure
of the business.
to submit,
Thus circumstanced,
was
duced
and renounce
after
my plan of participating
in
Three days
this
JEt. 23.]
H AM I L T O N
tiie
145
married to Eliza,
ler,
of her father in Albany, and thus became permanently established in the State of New York. A distinguished Frenchman describes her as " a charming woman, who joins to the graces all the candor
at the residence
New
Travels, p. 16G.
Vol.
1110
CHAPTER
Without
sion of
XXIV.
among
their
rugged and
sterile
The
On the even-
ing of the
first of January, the Pennsylvania line, which. Colonel Lee observed, should have been called, " the line of
wounded in their efforts moved from Morristown with their Their purpose was to pieces of artillery.
killed, others
On
receiving
the
intelligence
of
this
occurrence,
Washington, having
troops at
satisfied
West
and use
he was dissuaded.
Wayne in
mean
sergeant
their well-founded
many were
to
all,
arrearages of pay
were due
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
147
they
were
in
want of
their
money and
depreciation certificates.
whom
in concert with
emy,
Wayne
line
to
Chatham.
An
overture, nevertheless,
with the
was made, which was attended happiest effect. The emissaries were seized by
to
pealed
was apThe committee of Congress met them at this opportune moment. Terms were made, and the emissaries, convicted by a court-martial, were immediately executed. For want of proper care, the greater part of the line was dismissed, though
pride of the soldiers
to,
and handed
Wayne.
The
and
this
example, was
to
reduce them to
also deeply felt the wrongs of the and that relief must not be delayed. General Knox, charged with despatches, was deputed to obtain from the four Eastern States money and clothing.
The infectious example was a few days after followed by a part of the Jersey Hne. Hamilton was absent at Albany during the previous revolt. It was felt that a
resort to decisive measures
was
and
army would be
inevitable.
He imme-
order to General
"
Howe
to
march against
you
the mutineers.
The
;
object
is
to
compel them
sion
and
am
to desire that
no terms
148
THE REPUBLIC.
The manner of executing
If
[1781.
leave to your
discretion.
in
He was
to
civil
liberty
is
the precedent
A
ton, in
circular
was
"
at the
his solicitations
With
flour
we
day.
past,
We
salted
nor do
we know
is
The
to
meat
nearly exhausted."
The
instructions
Howe were
snow with
the
with alacrity.*
principal
suppressed.
Two
of
executed.
"
The
existence of the
In
The
A
York.
was manifested by
:
the troops in
New
and
in future to
private
re-
was
raised,
in this letter to
:
Hamilton's
in those
Mt.24:.]
HAMILTON.
I
149
me, and
think
mention."
The
troops,
distresses of the
insub-
ordination,
To
;
prevent her
whose terms had expired, from engaging in privaand a similar teers, an embargo was laid in Connecticut measure was recommended to Massachusetts and Rhode
Island.
the
brought forward, and he recalled the attention of SchuyIn reply. General Schuyler observed
"The reward
What
might
to, if
America,
but
I
although they
should be convinced of
the last year I proposed
bers,
eligibility.
In the course of
repeatedly to individual
memif
it
who
casion to mention
in
Congress.
am
persuaded,
was adopted, that a saving, at present almost inconceivable, would be induced, and an order and economy in the
public expenditures, whilst
it
of
men
to
would
prevail, that
we
shall sink
our expenses."
Intermediate the mutinies of the troops, Hamilton's
attention
letter to
was
In his
measures of primary
150
importance
:
THE EEPUBLIC.
[1Y81.
ernment with complete sovereignty in all that relates to war, peace, trade and finance, the providing " perpetual
revenues, productive and easy of collection"
ecutive officers instead of Boards,
single
ex-
The first of these, an army for the war, had been recommended by Congress to be enlisted by the States. The second, a national loan, was the object of the mission of Laurens. Though commissioned as special minister
from the United States, Hamilton suggested that a
letter
" In
shall
commit
to
of American
affairs
in
which
my
opin-
and
explicitness,
of your commission,
my
exigency of our
" 1st.
affairs
it
demand.
that, considering the
diffi-
To me
appears evident,
want of a
make
for carrying
on the
abilities
of
this
country,
the most
makes
and military
institu-
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
;
151
in affairs necessa-
tions to create
rily incident to
in the administration of
may be
attributed
want of a
first
it
sufficient stock
article,
which want,
make
impossible,
by any
in-
rassments, restore the public credit, and furnish the requisite funds for carrying
on the war.
it
" 3d.
to be im-
redemption
in the
;
was
main a necessary
its
funds
and that
restoration
which the general diffidence which has taken place among the people is an additional, and, in the
reason, to
for
found to be ineffectual
has frequently
left
the
army
to
its
distress,
and from
is
regarded
by
the people as
has excited
some States there appear alarming symptoms of opposition. That this mode has, besides,
serious discontents,
and
in
many
it
make
auxiliary.
is
incon-
siderable
eyed
men
are,
can em-
152
ploy their
THE REPUBLIC.
money
to
;
[1781.
more advantage otherwise besides which, the instability of our currency, and the want of That from the funds, have impaired the public credit. best estimates of the annual expense of the war, and the annual revenues which these States are capable of producing, there is a large balance to be made up by public
credit.
is
now
nearly
exhausted
matured
to
an extremity
which has recently had the most disagreeable consequences, and demonstrates the absolute necessity of speedy
relief.
You
ings, for
want of
want of
to
subsistence, for
be
dissatisfied
with the
is
war
and there
felt in the
prosecuit,
may weaken
There
is
and free
not
people,
little
accustomed
heavy burdens,
odious kind,
pressed by impositions of a
new and
may
juncture, and
may imagine
all
and
efficacious succor of
to
and activity
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
blow
to the
I53
power
Without
we may make
With it, we should be in a condition to continue the war as long as the obstinacy of the enemy might require. The first is essential to the last
both combined, would at once bring the contest to a glorious issue
;
reach of contingencies;
America already
of her
allies,
crown the obligations which magnanimity and generosity and perpetuate the union by those ties of
feels to the
gratitude
and
affection,
it
as
well
as
mutual advantage,
solid
and
indissoluble.
That next
to a loan of
is
enemy
to a
diffi-
and by depriving them of all prospect of extending their acquisitions, would take away the motives
cult defensive,
Indeed,
it
is
war
how
it
infinitely
would
facilitate
our supplies.
It
In short,
war
to
America.
The number of
;
ports friendly to
them and
154
THE REPUBLIC.
;
[1781.
are cirto
our
"
That
which we
this
people, there
is still
prodis-
vided
gust,
we have
it
in
by changing the present system, by restoring public credit, and by giving activity to our measures of all
;
money might be
the basis.
The people are dissatisfied but it is with the feeble and oppressive mode of conducting the war, not with the war itself. They are not unwilling to contribute to its support, but they are unwilling to
do
it
in a
way
that renders
a necessary consequence of
and of the
inaits
of government to perform
cively made.
its
still
independence
France
but
this
means essential in war, nor can we rely on its continuance amid the perplexities, oppressions, and misfortunes that attend the want of
them.
"
That no nation
it
will
have
than
it
more
in its
power
to re;
pay what
the
fertility
may borrow
soils
;
this.
Our
;
immense
of
we
its in-
in a short
term
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
155
we may
have occasion
to contract.
be of any use to
you,
shall
be happy.
full
;
voyage, the
speedy return
ship, regard,
and
dear
sir,
"
Your obedient
servant,
" G.
W."
With
the fifteenth of
January
Washing-
ton by Hamilton.
stated
affairs
:
The motive of this special mission is The present infinitely critical position of our made it essential in the opinion of Congress, to
"
eye-witness to
and
striking point
was
also
The
choice
who
su-
them an
integrity
by a comparison
of this
disposition
of the parts of these instructions, and that the copy given to Laurens
fuller.
was
first
The
difference
is
not,
however, important.
The above
is
from the
draft, in
lines,
who made a
This
is
fair copy,
is
probably to add to
effect,
what
it
called
Was
intended to
156
perior to
I
THE EEPUBLIO.
any
spirit
[1781.
of party.
beg leave
our
allies
money and
in a naval superi-
solicited."
punishments
by
necessity of a gradation of
them
mean of preventing
suggestion as to the
sol-
He
also
made an important
both as a reward of merit, and prevention of deserThis paper was submitted to Congress by Washing-
The The
campaign prompted
mag-
Preparations for
siege
on a large
were now
be made.
With
this
view, Hamilton
name of
Washington, disclosing
for
this
The general
was
by Hamilton the
make two
works on York Island, the other against the works of Brooklyn on Long Island. If we should find ourselves unable to undertake this more capital expedition, and, if we have means equal to it, we shall attempt, as a secondary object, the reduction of Charleston
;
and Savannah,
may come
successively into
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
who had formed an
army
:
157
Washington an
of Philadelphia,
association to raise
Ameri-
trait
by proving,
to
be peculiarly your
You have
;
own
country only
it
own
sex,
whose female
accomplishments have
American
liberty.
sympathy of your
nor can
me
the
me
would more
During
this
On receiving
name
upon
September
effect
easy to say,
this
how
I
far
its
influence
may
extend.
It is
on
account,
enemy
should really
make
men
:
to Vir-
ginia."
On
French commander
Washington
"
The
op-
To
Mrs. Francis
Hillenrtis
and others.
158
THE REPUBLIC.
it
[1781.
can be vigorously
a naval
prosecuted, but
enemy have
superiority in America, I
am
not
enterprise
tions."
which
is
Owing
his
his
was
At the same time, he was projecting an expedition into North Carolina, and on the eighth of September he advanced from Camden to Charlotte. The people of Mecklenburg resolved, that their chief town, small as it was, should not be occupied by the eneto absolute submission.
my
Davie, promoted for his conduct at Hanging Rock, with a few volunteers under Major Gra-
town
at midnight.
of the
whose numbers he was endeavoring add the disaffected in the mountain region, where the
While Marion, having recruited
his small force
among
sallies
by repeated
off parties
of the
enemy, and quickening the opposition of the lower country and Sumter was gaining strength in the " New Ac;
North Carolina
another parti-
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
this
159
hoping by
bold
move
by approaching
his re-
compelled to abandon
treat
his purpose,
Ferguson, then on
The
slaves,
and unwilling
by their them with arms, could offer their invaders. But Ferguson
who had
life
rescued
tilling it
with their
own hands
herds,
the cares of
were
light,
as
were
their
forefathers,
who,
fell at
Culloden, in defence
Here dwelt
the Scotch
in
Irish
who, signalized
of London-
New
Hampshire,
Hence
off-
were seen on the frontier line of New York, at Cherry Valley, and along the borders of Pennsylvania,
These hardy mountaineers, whose courage and sagacity never failed them, plighted to each other in frequent
160
THE REPUBLIC.
They had heard of great
spoil
[1781.
and were hastening through the mountains, when news came that Ferguson was near by. The various, unexpected rally told him his danger. With the spirit of a true Scot, he betook himself to a near eminence, where courage and position might suffice, until the called-for reinforcements should come up. This eminence was known as "King's Mountain," crowned with forests and based on massive rocks, overlooking in
heights.
They speeded
with
who
stormy night,
Fording
son's
until a bright
whose veins flowed blood common with that of Patrick Henry, the left under Cleveland and Williams, the centre under Shelby of Welsh extraction, and Campston, in
bell,
proud of
his
to the chief
command.
Cleveland and Williams passed around the mountain
base, exhorting their followers. "
I will
show you by
" I
my
example how
to fight,"
exclaimed Cleveland.
can un-
dertake no more.
officer
own judgment.
Fire as quick as
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
161
you can, and stand your ground as long as you can. If we are repulsed, let us return and renew the fight." Instantly he rushed forward and attacked a picket advanced to the mountain edge, following them as they
retreated, fighting
up the
steep.
They were Scots in arms with the descendants of Scotchmen. The same pride, the same earnestness, the
same determination. Ferguson ordered a The assailants gave way. While in bayonet charge. pursuit, Shelby came up from an adverse point, and poured same
valor, the
in a well-directed fire.
pursuit,
new
also
These
At
this
moment,
and levelled a
should
his
tell.
and again
But no
respite
was
permitted him.
their coverts,
The
South Carolinians
now
rallied from,
renewed the fight and were repulsed. Thus, as often as one party was worsted, another was upon him. The right and centre, now intermingled, were both
driven almost to the foot of the mountain, some transfixed, others falling Iieadlong
over the
cliffs.
Recovering
from the furious charge, they reascended, when the enemy seeing no reprieve, fled under the close, unerring rifle
fire
At
from
this instant,
Ferguson, receiving
his
all
death wound,
fell
his saddle.
With
his last
breath
hope expired.
Quar-
ter
killed
was asked and granted. and wounded eight hundred made prisoners
fifteen
covered by the
trees,
few were
killed.
Vol. II.
162
Williams.
THE REPUBLIC.
In
[1781.
memory
the royalists
by
homes.*
and withdrawing
at Ninety-Six,
his
army from
the hostile
he established himself at
Winnsborough.
The services of Sumter and Marion were now sensibly felt. Threatened in different quarters, Cornwallis, weakened by detachments to meet them, which were hardly dealt with, saw himself stripped of
the advantages he had gained over Gates, and obliged to
unaware of the defeat at King's Mountain, and thinking the time had arrived for the conSir
Clinton,
Henry
thousand
men
proceed up
Peters-
Richmond and
make a
who
felt it
to
South Carolina.
ton,
Rochambeau
"
The
affairs
of the
enemy
at the
South seem
at present to decline.
They
will
a reinforcement from
New
York.
army
will leave us in
little
time."
Gates, strengthened
by some
militia
of North Carolina,
moved from Hillsborough towards the Yadkin, where he was joined by two hundred cavalry, of whom the com* Marshall,
ton's
i.
397.
Ramsay's
S. C.
ii.
183.
Tarle-
Campaigns.
Irving.
.^T. 24.]
HAMILTON.
163
to Colonel Washington, and two pieces Thence he moved on to Charlotte, Smallwood, his second in command, encamping below on the Catawba. Morgan, who had retired from the service,
of cannon.
to pass the
winter.
He was
second of December.
On
ascertain in
embraced
in the southern
department,
moved
hills
on the east
Greene now
in the
felt all
government
" I will
Southern States.
Near
this
army.
am
commis-
more competent
demands of
the service.
Nor
any
are
Not a
shilling in the
pay
for
months
straw."
to
come.
This
really
He
A
I
few days
:
" to
When
was appointed
to this
command,
expected
but they
difficulties
164
infinitely
THE REPUBLIC.
exceed what
I
[1781.
apprehended.
;
This
for
is
really
carrying on a
establish the
war
in
an enemy's country
you cannot
The
division
;
among
less
the people
much
greater than
imagined
tories persecute
little
fury.
There
is
every quarter.
Government here
;
is
infinitely
is
more popinhabitants
and there
no such thing as
The
are from
opinions,
all
projects
and schemes,
as
their
manners and
inhabitants
The
are
numerous
abroad than
at
home.
They
it
difficult to collect,
and
more
difficult to subsist
them.
There is a great
;
spirit
of enterprise
among
are,
come out
enemy.
There
also,
Public credit
is^
so
common
ruin.
move with
celerity.
It
The
large
plies
body of troops
at
and
to
draw
sup-
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
165
land, will be
will
Could
it
we
this
we
difficult for
Lord Cornwallis
country.
Nor should
with a
if I
is
much
so
much
we cannot move
ment towards them without hazarding its ruin. When I came to the army I found it in a most wretched condition. The officers had lost all confidence in the general, and the
troops
I
all
their discipline.
I call
communicate
my
The army
it
;
was posted
a council
difficulty
it
at Charlotte
when
came up with
to
and
in
new
position, but to
make an
single
new
disposition.
first
All
this I
effected
by a
made the necessary inquiry respecting the new positions, by sending a man to examine the ground and other requisites. If I cannot inspire the army with confidence and respect by an independent conduct, I foreorder, having
see
it
will be impossible to
instil
discipline
and order
among
the troops.
now And we
is
are subsisting
em-
barrassments, nor the most discouraging prospects, Greene began," Hamilton relates,* " before he entered upon the
duties of the field,
by
* Hamilton's Works,
ii.
486.
166
THE REPUBLIC.
to regulate his
[1781.
which was
future conduct
a plan con-
ceived with so
so perfect a
judgment
from
it
in the
he stationed Steuben
State.
His
parts
to
first
act
was
operations of
the
enemy.
been
With
stated,
the other he
as has
near the
encamped.
The
this
post taken
by Morgan was
fifty miles.
to the
northwest of
To
and
to
commanded
his legion,
his
artillery, was ordered move upon him with all speed. Leaving Leslie at Camden, Cornwallis moved towards North Carolina, in
prevent
his
his joining
Greene, upon
whom
he could direct
own
force.
and
two companies of
militia,
The
less
of
^T.
2-t.J
HAMILTON.
his
167
unsupported.
resolved to face his foe, superior as
He
was
their force.
fierce
ary.
The
of Morgan.
after
The
militia
placed
in
were ordered,
discharging
their fire, to
retreat,
opening a
new
enemy.
was destined
lustre of his
to
confound
his hopes,
and even
to sully the
former fame.
when
ton,
that re-
mained
seconded by the
determined bravery of
his
How-
from
ulting hand.
He was
Avith
The greater
;
were
and the
safety in
remaining few,
flight." *
himself,
were glad
to find
by
Leslie,
pushed forward
in
pur
of Morgan.
the
him
Americans could
unite.
Greene, ap-
it.
With
his entire
force of only
Defeated
in his object
by
this
whence he announced
ii.
Works,
488.
"
168
THE REPUBLIC.
CaroHna the recovery of
to Virginia,
[1781.
that State,
though with
little
moment
of invasion,
want of
want of men
its
want of energy
in
itants a
Jefferson, retiring
place in seventy-nine.
assailed
turn,
it
Yet no important
seen,
succor,
linas,
and no provision,
was now
was made
for
self-defence.
we
to
British troops
was irksome
office.
also said,"
Edmund
little
cowardly
His
fears, relieved
revived by a letter
New
Clin-
York.
ton,
Henry
whom were
of ex-
associated Colonels
officers
The
* "
selection of
Arnold
to
this service,
i.
his papers,
179.
Nov.
6,
1780.
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
169
ployment of Simcoe were for a special reason. A considerable body of loyalists near the Chesapeake had associated themselves for the purpose of restoring the royal
government.
A correspondence with their leaders was had by Major Andre, to which Simcoe was privy. Soon
after his execution, Simcoe was assured, if he should be detached there with a thousand men, " they, to the amount
government." *
Rochambeau
fleet did
This detachment, which Hamilton had announced to as probable, embarked at New York the
not reunite in the Chesapeake until the thirtieth,
sailed
when they
arrival
up the James.
by Steuben, wrote to Washington " We have nothing to oppose them there, except the militia and about four hundred eighteen-months' men, as ragged and naked
as the Virginia blacks."
The news of
last
their
day of December.
no
efficient
total force
men.
preparations for its defence were made. The under Arnold did not amount to eight hundred Simcoe and Dundas urged an immediate advance.
Within seven miles of Richmond a patrol appeared, who, being discovered, fled at full speed. Only two hundred militia had been collected for the defence of the capital
of Virginia.
strong,
Even this force, posted on the succession of wooded hills, which, separated by obstructing
cover of the
was
offered,
not a
gun was
fired,
not a
life
was
lost.
* Simcoe's Journal.
170
THE EEPUBLIC.
relates, that
[1781.
Simcoe
hill in
small bodies,
stretching
away
Ameriap-
and as they
filed off, in
flank,
to dismount
where it was so steep that they were obliged and lead their horses. Luckily the enemy
;
made no
arrival
fusion."
similar scene
was presented
after he
had passed
He
words
When
were not
and
fifth
who, on the
and retired
the next
day unmolested.
and unfordable
river, flitting
from place
"
to place, hiding
heavy
rains." f
Five days after, Jefferson communicated to Washington these occurrences, dwelling chiefly on the efforts to
save " the arms, and stores, and records," and admitting
" that
no opposition was
in i-eadiness." in
Hamilton answered
the
name of Washington
" Observatious
-^T.
2-4.]
HAMILTON.
I7I
considering the situation of your State, it is to be wondered you have hitherto suffered so Httle molestation. I am apprehensive you will suffer more in future nor should I
;
be surprised,
Virginia
till
if
the
enemy were
to
to establish a post in
as the evils
you have
campaign here. But apprehend from these predatory be compared with the injury to the
common
ticular,
cause, and with the danger to your State in parfrom the conquest of the States to the southward
I
of you,
am
persuaded the attention to your immediate you from the measures intended to
it
into a condition to
enemy
in that quarter.
The
late
accession of force
too formidable
from Virginia
;
in Carolina
and
war
at
There
and
to
is
to
make a
this
diversion in
remove
motive,by disap-
ways to remove the enemy." The next day Hamilton announced to Rochambeau, that, "Arnold had re-embarked from
Westover," whither he had returned from Richmond, "descended as far as Smithfield, relanded there, and marched to Portsmouth. Here, it was expected, he would
fortify."
CHAPTER XXV.
Nearly
this
was apDuring
week
Rochambeau,
relation
was abruptly
terminated.
A
ing
to
General Schuyler,
two days
him
at
an
interest-
moment
nEA
"Head
"
My
SIR,
I
" Since
last,
an
my situation.
am
This infor^
you more.
Two
he
told
me
he wanted
to speak to
me,
immediately.
I answered that I would wait upon him went below, and delivered Mr. Tilghman
was stopped on
the
way
He
can
testify
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
173
how
impatient I was to get back, and that I left him in a manner which, but for our intimacy, would have been more than abrupt. Instead of finding the general, as is usual, in his room, I met him at the head of the stairs, where accosting me in an angry tone, Colonel Hamilton, (said he,) you have kept me waiting at the head of the stairs these ten minutes I must tell you, sir, you treat
' ;
me
with disrespect.'
*
with decision,
am
not conscious of
tell
have thought
well,
this
sir,
it
necessary to
it
me
I
so,
we
Very
(said he,) if
effect,
and
we
separated.
my
two
in
much umbrage,
after,
an hour
Tilghman came
and of
to
me
me of his
great confidence in
his desire,
my
which could
I re-
moment of
passion.
I
tell
him,
1st.
That
had taken
2d.
my
resolution in a
manner not
to be revoked.
That
to
I
yet
it.
would not refuse an interview, if he desired it, would be happy, if he would permit me to decline
That though determined
to leave the family, the in
it,
3d.
same
principles
would
continue to direct
it.
my
by
4th. That,
however,
quitting
who were
same
absent.
5th.
And
that in the
mean
time,
it
de-
pended on him,
as if nothing
had happened.
He
174
cline
THE REPUBLIC.
the conversation,
[1781.
continuing
my
aid in
"Iha\egiven you
opinion.
Perhaps you
may
think I
was
precipitate in re-
made by
modation.
assure you,
;
my dear
was not
the effect
of resentment
it
was
maxims
my own
con-
having in
it
refused to
came
****** ******.
my
scruples,
and induced me
It
renounce
it
was always determined, if there should ever happen a breach between us, never to consent to an accommodation. I was persuaded, that when once that nice barrier, which marked the boundaries of what we owed to each other, should be thrown down, it might be propped again, but could never
feelings, I
my
be restored.
"
The General
is
a very honest
man
his
competitors
have slender
abilities,
and
less integrity.
His popularity
is
of great importance to
it.
influenced
fluence
my
my
future
think
it is
supported.
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
I75
His estimation in your mind, whatever may be its amount, I am persuaded has been formed on principles
"
which a circumstance
but
I
if I
like
this
cannot materially
affect
thought
it
me
to justify
myself wrong.
wish what
a public knowlill
in
conceal
pretext.
probably, be the policy of both sides to and cover the separation with some plausible
will,
I
am
importuned by such of
listen
my
friends as are
;
privy to the
resolution
"
is
affair, to
to a reconciliation
but
my
unalterable.
As
I
war,
cannot think of quitting the army during the have a project of re-entering into the artillery, by
I
who
is
desirous
of retiring on half-pay.
have
I
not,
however, made up
my
the
mind upon
youngest
I
this
head, as
should be obliged to
instead
come
in
lieutenant-colonel
of
the
eldest,
which
remained
ought to have been by natural succession, had I in the corps and, at the same time, to resume
;
which
to avoid inferiority,
must be laborious.
" If a
handsome command
ofler itself, I
artillery.
in the
shall
campaign
in the light
this
mfantry should
balance between
and the
My
would be
more
last
solid
and permanent
long enough to
less force.
has the
leave
but as I hope the war will not make it progressive, this consideration A command for the campaign, would
me
*
future career in *
*
all
*****#*
*
I
my
have written
to
you on
this
subject with
the freedom
and confidence
to
which you
176
THE EEPUBLIC.
right,
all
[1781.
have a
take in
interest
you
that concerns
later, gives
a pleasing
view of
"
his
own
sir,
character
My
dear
was delivered
afflicted
to
me.
me
not that
I discover
any impropriety
in
your
conduct in the
myself,
affair in
but as
it
may be
attended with
consequences prejudicial to
my
its
which
"
I affectionately love.
As no event tending
to
by me with indifference, I should esteem myself culpable were I silent on the occasion and must therefore entreat
;
your attention.
ask not for
"
;
that I
am
Long
my
family which
is
so very
satis-
affords
me
such extreme
thought
I
;
in some, a considerable
ability,
but (without a
compliment, for
us)
in
trust there
you only
necessary to the
man who
is
to aid
manding general, environed with difficulties of every kind, and those perhaps more and of greater magnitude, whose correthan any other ever has had to encounter
:
inter-
as to require
ment and
what
is
address, to be properly
I
managed.
but
to you,
.Et. 24.]
HAMILTON.
Your
177
I
men
fore,
do
on the occasion.
your
and
of others, impels
me
to
of you im-
agine w^hen you separate, that the cause will remain a secret
;
I will
I
it is
impossible.
officers,
fear the
French
These already observe too many divisions They know and acknowledge your abilities, and how necessary you are to the general. Indeed, how
French court.
between
us.
" It
is
evident,
my
dear
sir,
'He wished
few men
to heal a difference
through
life
without one of
those unguarded
friend.
Let us
moments which wound the feelings of a then impute them to the frailties of huout of the page of
life.
man
tear,
and blot
it
do not mean
to
duct.
They
necessary and
justifiable.
This necessity
now
exists in
Make
in
the sacrifice.
The
greater
it is,
the
more
are
glorious to you.
Your
services are
station
wanted.
They
wanted
filled
that
particular
your gone
which
were
to
Rhode
Island."
Vol. II. 12
178
THE REPUBLIC.
[1781.
One of
There have been misrepresentations of this occurrence. these, as will hereafter be seen, was refuted by
Washington.
As
to the other,
which
a
is
recent,
it
is
to
be regretted that
so
unguarded
statement should
a
With
is
matter
light
by a
foreigner,
to the character of
Wash"
ington.
"
is
his
comment,
and
The hardships of
his pas-
and the
officers
those very
men whose
temper
Col-
had
from the
irritable
and punctilious
susceptibility of their
commander.
those
men whom
neither admi-
own
dignity.
The menjs
He
felt
that he
was and he was indeed something more for General Washington than a good aide-de-camp. In the midst of his unlettered companions, he was an elegant and practised writer,
man
of^
fitted
for
and
for war.
lofty heart,
an
in
Colonel Hamilton, to
Note.
227.
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON".
won
179
for
mind of Washington."
Washington had
death, a
more
faithful counsellor
from
this
respect."
As Hamilton's
effect
was
conduct,"
it
was
adhered
to.
From
the
moment
his separation
it
from Washington's
regretted.
military family
was known,
was generally
felt
who
His high
in kindnesses,
;
which, as foreigners,
and
his
readiness to promote
them
a friend, on
whom
commending him
to their regard.
In the situa-
few of its young soldiers had enjoyed those advantages, which enabled them to enter into the
tion of this country,
to,
and be-
come
in
a pai't
of,
North America.
His
command
of their language, a
180
tone,
THE KEPUBLIC.
[1781.
freedom from those prejudices above which persons of the most distinguished merit do not always rise, his
warmth of heart and romantic temper, rendered him a welcome inmate of their conviviaHties, and gave him the first place among the American officers in their affections.
La
his
constant,
his
illustrious
friend, as he
to
many
life,
have regretted
in
it.
With
the same
occasions, he
now
them
his
own
feelings,
by the comand
its
mander-in-chief."
Owing
now urged
a detachment
fleet to the
Chesapeake.
The
loss
sailed
from
New
would
Port.
So small a maritime
little
was
believed,
be of
use, and,
ton wrote to
Rochambeau
is
name of Washington,
importance,
it is,
judged of
sufficient
in
my
and naval
tion
With
this
expecta-
"
I
possible
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
181
chance of success, put under marching orders, a detachment of twelve hundred men, who will advance towards
the head of Elk River, there to
co-operation.
I
embark and proceed to a made it more considerable, could I have spared the troops." This detachment was confided to La Fayette, who was to embark at the head of Elk and proceed down the bay to the place of opershould have
ation under the protection of a
French
frigate.
Steuben
as
was ordered to make such a disposition of his command would facilitate the enterprise, of which the object was the capture of Arnold and of the troops in Portsmouth.
" If the fleet should have arrived before this gets to hand,
if
it
should not
have made
tions,
its
The
ar-
which had
Arnold,
to retreat
endeavor
by land
obviate
to
North Carolina.
If
to
this,
Should
treat through
him.
" Should
its
we
will
detachment with
it
chief,
it
be an event as pleasant as
will
be
useful."
few days
after,
Hamilton drew a
operations
"
letter
La
Fayette
di-
him
at
When
you arrive
to
must act
as
shall direct."
He was
French
added
:
fleet
"
You
182
that, directly or
THE REPUBLIC.
by
implication
his treason
[17S1.
may
punishment due to
should
fall
he
into
execute
in the
most
summary way."
These measures were announced to Congress by Hamilton in
The
situation
alarming
the
more
so,
as the
measure of producing
was, by
my
unattempted,
when
Until
the danall
the
we have
Particu-
had too much influence to the prejudice of general and He announced to Rochambeau substantial principles."
that the Pennsylvania line
as fast as
it
would march
to the
southward
This
in-
communicated
to
General Greene
ary, observing
" Amidst the complicated dangers with surrounded, a confidence in your abilities you are which I am convinced you will do is my only consolation.
is
practicable.
will
army, which
Virginia are
will
such an event."
The
eflforts
to aid
him by a diversion
to
in
stated,
and looking
the possibility of
La Fayette was
the
first
author-
by Hamilton of
of March,
mander, expected to proceed to the south, " for a descent into North Carolina to cut off the detachment of the ene-
my
intercept, if
^T.
24,]
HAMILTON.
1S3
possible, Cornwallis,
Southern States."
The next day Washington proceeded to New Port. The operations immediately required for the relief of
those States, and for the residue of the campaign,
were
considered.
fleet sailed.
Two
days after
French
commission
in the line, of
lieutenant-colonel, to
which he was
which
it
entitled.*
The general
six
action,
reinforcement of
hundred
militia
if possible,
cutting
off the
Cornwallis, leaving
camped on
House.
Having
enemy's
for a time,
by
skilful
efforts to bring
a total of four thousand five hundred men, near two thou* From the subjoined note of Washington to Hamilton,
it
was supposed
this journey.
This
is
found to be er-
The copy
780.
It is in these
words
:
"
Dear H.vmilton
it is
I shall
as soon as
convenient to you.
to
fleet
pass out, I
am
you
to
be present.
am
siu-
A.
31."
184
sand of
THE REPUBLIC.
whom were
was
[1781.
battle Cornwallis
seeking.
on the
fifteenth of
March.
from able disposition towards insuring success," Hamilton remarks, " promised a favorable issue to the American
arms.
But superior
discipline carried
skill."
it
against superior
When
to retire.
He
fell
back
field
but three
He
then, so severe
his
was
with the
limits
remainder of
of
Greene
in vain
The consequences of the battle of Guilford Court House were more serious than was supposed. Too weak
to contend with the
now
him but
and
to
upon Greene,
whom
this
possibility of succor.
To
now
own
strength
even the
spirit
into
South Carolina.
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
185
in Italy, to
overcome him
head
Carthage " *
!
La Fayette
of Elk.
April
:
had, in the
mean
to
Thence he wrote
"
Where
is
is,
my
dear Hamilton
It is
This question
not
But motives both of a public and private nature conspire in making me wish that your woe be not accomplished.
Perhaps you are
at all events,
fleet
I'll
at head-quarters,
tell
perhaps at Albany;
you
my
history.
Had
;
the
French
it
come
in,
The more
certain
at last
was,
has
I
the greater
my
it
become necessary
and
this
them
to return to
Rhode
Island.
common
first I
good,
Having
had no
If
luckily arrived at
right to expect, I
at
letter.
you are
at head-quarters,
you
;
will
have seen
my
correI
if not, I tell
you that
will
am
in-
army under
his
immediate
active.
command we
remain
will arrive at a
time
when
tions.
it
This detachment
so circumstanced, as to
officers
make
and men
to
proceed
five or
Before
six
we
arrive,
we
shall
perhaps be reduced to
hundred men.
"
There
will
be no
light infantry
formed,
no
it
attack
against
by
land,
ought
492.
186
to have
selves,
THE REPUBLIC.
been the Jersey
will
line,
[1781.
because
if
we weaken
our-
New York
"Monsieur Destouches
frigates
these,
the
now
at Philadelphia,
would carry
fifteen
hundred men
to
think
We
could
new
corps of light
first
days of May,
we
could be at Wilmington,
else,
sooner than
we can now
six
battalions
composed of
com-
panies
colonels
Majors
and
Willet,
;
Gibbes,
Inspector
Smith,
another
My
but
if
you
me.
to
Adieu.
I will
probable
war, far
my
must have
tal^en
by
this
time.
My
best respects
and affectionate
eighteenth,
"
On the
Dear Hamilton,
is
;
you are
plain to
me what
is
New York
going.
given
that
last
up
that
while
the
am
This
^T.
24.]
nAMILTON.
lost
187
the course of intel-
Have you
left
the family,
my
dear
sir 1
suppose
so
affection, I ardently
wish
it
was not
many,
if
it
many
me."
But
you
with
do leave
and
if I
go
to exile,
of Washington
The next day Hamilton wrote to Greene in the name " The motives which induced you to
:
hazard a
battle,
appear to
me
to
am happy
to find that
cumstances of distress corresponded with your expectations. I still, however, regard your affairs as critically
situated.
The enemy
We
preparing at
New
much
York
tion
is
to be
commanded by
for
Clinton himself.
Its destinait
is
more probably
Chesapeake or Cape Fear. The marquis w^ill have informed you of the orders he has received to march southward with his corps to concert with
you
to
his ulterior
movements, whether
to
remain
are
in Virginia
make head
St.
against the
enemy who
now
in
force
there, or to
General
me
that nine
hundred of the
Pennsylvanians were to march the sixteenth from Yorktown. You may be assured that we give you all the
support in our power.
adequate."
I
On
"
the
to
Dear General,
acknowledge myself
in not
have been
unpardonably delinquent
ISS
fore
;
THE REPUBLIC.
any
[1781.
left
me
must now be
brief, as the
post
is
I shall
" I
in the
way
of knowing sentiI
but as far as
am
acquainted
Your conduct
in the southern
command seem
is
to be universally approved,
and
your reputation
pro-
gressive.
will
How
long
wheel of fortune
you any thing of our prospects here, because we know little about them ourselves. Hitherto we have received few recruits. I fear this campaign will
be a defensive one on our part.
" Harrison has left the general to be a chief justice of
" I
Maryland.
fortune
am
may
cast
up
is
mean
This,
my
will
dear general,
feehng.
You may
much
am
sure you
gotten so
I
way
am
afraid of seeing
whatever
This obliges
let
me
to be cau-
Adieu.
My
dear general,
in
my
respect, esteem,
Let
me know
if I
my
You know
I shall
hate to be nominally
Four days after, Hamilton wrote to La Fayette in the name of Washington, alluding to the contemplated siege " It appears to me extraordinary, that of New York
:
JEt. 24.]
HAMILTON.
189
your advices should have given you an idea so different from the whole complexion of the intelligence
ceived concerning
tion of our
its
'
had
re-
probability.'
This,
and the
situait
own
;
force,
have induced
me
to regard
as
barely possible
po.sitions
;
happen
the arrival
French
"
auxiliaries.
The danger
It is
to the
Southern States
is
immediate and
pressing.
circumstances considered,
The was
dethe
The
It
;
Greene has
continuing
destination.
is
essential
to him,
that
on
militia
for this.
my
The
the
letters
last
staff.
The
previously adverted
his friend
made came
is
seen in the
Hamilton,"
my
I
other
have
I
To-morrow
am
be
re-
may
But, be this as
may,
it
continue to
my
latest breath."
:
"
My
dear HamilI
is
a great gulf, or
My
enough
to
attempt walking
upon
the waters.
You must
my
dealing
190
so
THE REPUBLIC.
in Scripture phrases, that I
[1781.
much
am
I
either
drunk with
to the
lord,
had
been inchned
in
a jolly
companion
my
who came here yesterday. We have not a word of news. Whenever any arrives worth communicating and good,
you
shall
have
it
instantly
I
if
bad,
I will
not promise so
I
much
dispatch.
am
not yet
A
for
weaned from you, nor do I desire to be." letter was also received by him some time after
:
from Laurens
"
:
am
indebted to you,
my
dear Hamilton,
two
letters
the
first
me
exceedingly unhappy.
to
at the
same
time,
my
friendship
you and knowledge of your value to the United make me most ardently desire that you should fill only the first offices of the republic. I was flattered with
an account of your being elected a delegate from
York, and
yourself.
New
am much
I I
it
confirmed by
must confess
of the war,
from
thence becoming
minister plenipotentiary
for
tem of
seniority
would not have you renounce your rank in the army, unless you entered the career above mentioned. Your private aflfairs cannot require such immediate
and close
attention.
You speak
like
?i
paterfamilias
were
.^T. 24.]
HAMILTON."
;
191
but
I
was
out-
my
side,
by a triple-headed monster,
blies.
our assem-
that
since
was some consolation to me, however, to find philosophy and truth had made some little progress
my
last effort, as I
obtained twice as
many
suffi-ages
as before."
person subsequently
:
much
first time I saw young man. It was at the camp on or near the Hudson. He seemed a visitor. I spent the evening at the same public house, unknowing and unknown. The company seemed highly respectable, and the conversation
of Hamilton
him, then a
who seemed
my
conceptions.
When
I
the
company
admired so much." *
be indulged of an active cam-
to
and
by those of La Fayette.
With
a de-
now
resolved to re-
new
a separate
;
failed in the
preceding autumn
and with
view ad-
dated at
:
De
" Sir
New
Hampshire.
192
THE REPUBLIC.
I
[1781.
army of
first
of March, 1777.
lency, to
become necessary to me to apply to your excelknow in what manner you foresee you will be
in the
able to
employ me
ensuing campaign.
am
;
ready
though
field,
am
"
not anxious to do
I
the
army
takes the
as
perceive no object.
Unconnected
as I
am
in
can have
and
I flatter
my-
my
"
have been
in actual service
began
in the line,
and had
continued there,
in
more
advanced
in
rank than
now am.
which
I I
believe
my
conduct
army
;
and
cannot suppose
with pleasure
them
to be so
me
have
menpecu-
show
in
that I
do not apprehend
is
the
same
difficulties
can exist
my
case, (which
liar,)
commands of
some other officers, not belonging to what is called the line. " Though the light infantry is chiefly formed, yet being
detached to the southward,
"I
I
take
it
army.
to be,
very respectfully,
" A.
Your
Hamilton."
The
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
New
Windsor, April
27tli,
193
1781.
"
Dear
Sir
Your
letter
of
this
embarrassed me.
Pennsylvania
line
by
the
which
at this
moment
exists
among
it
the Eastern
onel
was
the result
of absolute necessity.
" Should circumstances admit of the formation of an-
see very
little
prospect
it
composed almost
and
to
add
by
the far-
comin a
mand
of
it,
or in
it,
would,
am
certain, involve
me
difficulty
more
serious than
it
easy to imagine.
While
you request,
it
am, at the
will not
do
to
push
more
"I
am
convinced that no
abilities.
officer can,
with justice,
dis-
for the
are,
The want of
who
The
officers
a hardship and
officers
upon them,
(of
to introduce
brevet
in
into
commands,
some permanency,)
large,
to discipline
IL 13
194
THE REPUBLIC.
impute
[1781.
My
you
my
refusal of
beg you
I
to
be
assured, I
am
have
mentioned.
"I
am, dear
sir,
"
servant,
Geo. Washington."
dis-
tinguished from those which Washington had adduced as precedents, wrote him a farther letter, on the second of
May.
" Sir
:
am extremely
late
you by
my
application,
good of the
service, while I
was
in
made
it
so.
" I
was too
interested a spectator of
what happened
have remarked,
the case of
to
and not
having a
line
;
The
opposi-
being a brevet
officer,
yet
command
the
in
ment from
army
at large, so
not disputed.
sonal objections
existed and
they
was thought
who
a late
and had not taken part w^ith us period, and when our affairs had assumed a more
JEt.24:.
HAMILTON.
195
Your excellency
no other view
at the time,
officers
mention
this in
My
it
esteem for
I
Major McPherson, and other reasons, make can have a different intention.
"I know
less
impossible
in the
I
cases of Colonel
but
have
in
understood, that
would be uncandid
me
I believe
the opposition, in
affects
my
case.
But,
the
same
time,
it
appears to me,
also
their
am own
had taken,
and on cool
were happy
in
an opportunity to
to
relinquish their
which
we
I
shall
never have
be carried to excess.
ably be relieved.
Major Galvan,
am
told, will
prob-
Your excellency
;
my
is
case
is
peculiar,
and
it
distinguished
by
196
the circumstances
THE REPUBLIC.
I
[1781.
my having
my early enthe
made
campaign
of
'76,
company of
than
I
entitled, in that
more ancient
all
in date,
now
possess,
my having made
important
the subsequent
campaigns
constant
in
course of
and
laborious
service.
These are
my
;
way which my
I
situa-
and
minds of the
me
to
view
regard as impracticable
my
appointment in a
I I
light corps,
entreat they
may
be un-
am
incapable of wishing
" I
am
any
may
" I
be,
sir,
A. Hamilton.
" P. S. I
in the sense
it,
your
as signifying,
corps.
tion
;
made a
distinc-
whom
mine
is
a regular com-
CHAPTER XXVI.
Hamilton's attention
is
of the country.
The
questions
;
were
and
to
power of Congress
command
projects
were ob-
New York
meet
at Hartford,
two
delegates,
were,
shall
" to
all
powers equal
disapprove.
approve or
were present seven other delegates representing the four New England States. Upon much deliberation, a paper was addressed by this body to Congress, and to the States they represented. After calling upon the Eastern States to raise their quotas of
these
With
troops
detachments of
militia
198
to
THE REPUBLIC.
requisitions of Congress,
[1781.
who were
requested to
empower
to clothe the
army,
in view.
The convention
or any of them,
called
upon Congress,
cific articles,
or duties on imports, on
the several States
to operate
among
all
and
purchasing
funded."
officers,
was proposed, " that the several States should thereupon make the necessary provisions by
With
this
intent,
it
The
States
power of were
call
upon
Congress were to
number of
letter to
strong passage
is
seen.
"
Our
present embarrassments
we
measure from a defect in the present government of the United States. All government supposes the power of
coercion.
/Et. 24.]
HAMILTON.
199
permanent funds
stated, "
as the basis of
"
By
the
it
we may
be emancishall,
We
how-
we we
if
are properly
we have
until
it
not sufficient
our distresses,
have, as
were, forced us
to punish their
into
civil
an union."
officers
for malconduct.
The
erection of a conti-
solicited
'^
to use
to a
committee raised
and
to refer similar
were proper
to con-
resolution
was
laws.
to
trial
in relation to offisnces
in the civil
eral,
with powers to appoint deputies in each State, who was to prosecute suits for the United States, and to give his advice in all matters referred to him. In February
following,
to this office,
cotemporaneous measure to
in Virginia.
It
fill
was suggested
contemplated a bounty
negroes at specified prices for each recruit, to be taken, if not given up, by compulsion and to be raised from
;
200
THE REPUBLIC.
Much
[1781.
opposi-
was
anticipated.
legislature, but
was
laid aside.*
commended,
as Hamilton previously had done, the raising black regiments, giving them their freedom. This measure was discountenanced by Washington on grounds of military poli-
cy and of humanity, and was not carried into effect. " The freedom of these people," it is stat-ed in a letter from Jones to Madison, " is a great and desirable object. To
have a clear view of
it
would be happy
it
whenever
it is
attempted,
must
be, I conceive,
by some
go
off,
for laborers
we
der the sudden revolution." f Virginia, also at this time, enacted a law rendering her paper a legal tender. J
The
was
now
His proposal
Duane, was brought before that body by a committee of which he was a member, on the tenth of January, in a plan for " a Department of Foreign Affairs."
made
to
The head of
this
Department was
to
be " a Secretary,"
affairs
of the
United States.
and he was
may
be bef-
ter informed of the affairs of the United States, and have an opportunity of explaining his reports respecting that
department."
This feature of the plan probably was owing to the fact that Congress always sat with closed
doors.
Edmund
4,
1780.
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
201
Departments."
Fi-
nance
a Secretary at
War
opposition.
:
new mode of
transacting business
by
Samuel Adams, whose obstinate and resolute character was so useful to the Revolution in its origin, but who shows himself very ill suited to the conferent departments.
duct of
affairs in
new arrangement."
that
it is
sion of
it
is
known
I
not the
possessor's property
of mankind.
Were
our financier,
I
was going
will
to say
hope he
never have
which the
that
first
parliament of Britain
nation.
long
enough
expressed in
instituted.
I
was
financier
but
certainly would, when even Congress would not dare to blow that breath whether
:
judge."*
this
livan
measure was in contemplation, General Sulwrote from Congress to Washington, proposing Hamilton as the head of the treasury department. " How
* Dec.
9,
While
1783.
202
THE REPUBLIC.
Washington
replied, " of
[1781.
-whom
you ask
I
my opinion
am
with
him.
But
this I
be found, of
who have
sesses
in the
cause, or
tue." *
in probity
sterling vir-
"I
am
of Colonel Hamilton, as
I
After
wrote,
Morris as financier.
Hamilton,
it
will
be recollected, had in
important
office.
On
the
twentieth of February
New
Adams and
delegates
Ward
refusing to vote.
:
A
vote.
"
The Massachusetts
it,
Their concurrence
declaring that they
was
reprobated the plan, though they must submit to the majority of the voting States.
You
all,
War.
Mifflin
and others
After
wish.
All
have refused
to serve
under
this
arrangement.
we can
and be thrown,
a most desirable
But
I
be perfectly harmless.
* Feb. 4, 1781.
.Et. 24.]
HAMILTON.
They must be
after
203
less
gang.
crushed, and in
is
than two
months
ized." *
the
new arrangement
properly organ-
PoUcy and good feehng had united in favor of an inAn opposite course dulgent demeanor towards Gates.
might have been ascribed
of Washington.
to personal hostility
on the part
by
the partisans
be given to the
The cry of persecution would be raised of the unfortunate general, and new life Nor was there any discomfited cabal.
him harshly.
His being sunecessity,
where
a disposition to treat
in the
perseded
was
a sufficient disgrace.
it
was
not withheld.
The
legislature of Virginia,
on
his
return
honors.
him
soothing
Soon
on the twenty-first
from
" as
his
command
in the line
of the
army
at large,
and
aflfairs in
w as
mand
would permit.
in Virginia.
his residence
A
to
Reed wrote
this
week before this resolution passed, Joseph him f " The services you have rendered
:
me
to
be such as to
you to more consideration than modern policy or prudence would allow. I know of no other instance in
entitle
American war where a want of particular success has met with such severe, and, in my judgment, unjust anithe
madversion."
He
accompa-
1781.
May
13, 1781.
204
THE REPUBLIC.
was prevented, and
[1781.
also out of
The defeat at Camden was a fatal blow to the cabal. The selection of Gates by Congress, without consulting It doubtless was the commander-in-chief, was their act.
made
larity in the hope, that should
gained there, would, added to his Eastern strength, give them a complete ascendency, rendered more probable by contrast with the inactivity which the reduced
state of the
in their
The extent of their buoyed, now blasted hopes, is seen murmuring regrets, aspersions, detractions, defaWashington could not be
displaced.
mations.
He must
be
dis-
trusted.
To
brought
The cry of monarchy was heard that cry which hushed as to him, was raised against Hamilton,
in aid.
life,
to popular favor,
Rush took up
"
the key-note
A citizen of the United States," he now writes to Gates from Philadelphia,* " who dares to acknowledge himself a friend to monarchy (under any name or shape), is a traitor
in the
as the necessary
'
head
of
his
church.
Floreat Respubhca
I will
is
the motto of
my
heart,
and
never
own any
sovereign
This, I
know,
would be
of the
Sachems on
the banks
river, in
whom
ambition
and a
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
and
liberty.
205
in writing to
virtue
But
am happy
one
men
was but
the forerunner of
observing
"
There
is
treason.
It is
republicanism.
all
It will
our monarchical
and prejudices.
government.
in
pope
in religion
and a king
in
power are equally necessary articles with many people. Let "us have patience. Our republican forms of government
will in time beget I'epublican opinions
and manners.
All will
end
well.
you the
will
fate of
the repose of
Europe
probably be determined in
allies
!
Chesapeake Bay.
Hyder
Ally,
is
my
table.
The
ene-
human
nature.
star in our
American
hemisphere.
great men.
Our
number of our
Mr. Dickinson
Adieu,
talked of as successor to
Read.
assembly to a seat
Gates
"I
in the council.
my
dear friend."
to
:
Yet ten days after, Morris wrote that you have doubts or suspicions meant for you. I differ very much
have not the
least reason to
* Sept.
know
is
not
in this respect,
and
man
high in
1781.
206
THE REPUBLIC.
means you an
injury."
[1781.
authority wishes or
He
advised
him
busy scenes
whom
it
was
di-
rected.
when superseding
mean
Secretary of Marine.
on
ments the terms not being acceded to, this office was not Five months later, Robert R. Livingston was apfilled.
pointed Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
minister at motives,"
The
choice of a
"
war
The
Schuyler wrote
which led
General
Congress to postpone
the
in
hopes
that,
by an
in
office,
dence
will
be restored
time.
men who
The
prompted Congress
an executive minis-
new
.Et. 24,]
HAMILTON.
calling
in
207
bills,
lutions
the
holders
elsewhere sent them there, where the value was longest upheld, to be immediately realized.* The newly emitted
bills
until a
old had
To
and became almost worthless, while the people, not distinguishing between the old and the new bills, between the genuine issued at Philadelphia and those counStates,
terfeited at
New
Congress
in vain
would have
resisted the
unbending
laws of value.
hibit
Ere
six
value of sixty
lar to the
bills.
months elapsed, they fixed a depreciated per cent., and they, now, addressed a circu-
new
emission of
had been
by
loans,
and
by
the commissaries
and quar-
had been
off at the
destitute of supplies,
same
instant."
"
An
the
we
selves
by annual
taxes,
We
if
we
86.
208
THE REPUBLIC.
in
[1781.
the importation,
we
want
arms and
ammunition.
loan of
aids of
attempting a foreign
out and required the
in
every event
With
enlightened people,
ings for which
we
ures which
able
we have recommended their full and seasoneffect." The amount called for in specie to pay the
for six months, w^as less than nine
army
hundred thousand
!
dollars,
The
army,
motive to
yet
it
urgent
call
was
to quiet a mutinous
was
difficultly
complied with.
They
felt
it,
to the adop-
convention at Hartford.
the
South
now concurred
in
each section
recommending it. Thus the disasof the country were working out the
sense of
common
suffering
and a resort
to
common
first
relief.
On
the
be recommended
Burke
power
this
duties.
The
vote
amendment
passed.
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON".
209
A concurrent power with the States, it was perceived by Witherspoon, a very intelligent member from New
Jersey, a native of Scotland and president of Princeton
College, who had recently been re-elected to Congress, would be nugatory. Five days after the previous resolution,
in
shall
be partial or contrary
imported
concurring
be uniform, and should cease, when the objects for which they were to be raised were " perfected " Congress being
them for perpetual or indefinite interests. This limitation was rejected, and a resolution was passed, recommending the vesting power in
of
Congress to levy, for the use of the United States, a duty five per cent, ad valorem, at the time and place of im-
portation,
upon
all
any of them, excepting wool and cotton cards and the wire for making them, and except salt, during the
States or
war
also a like
The
proceeds were to be appropriated to the discharge of the principal and interest of the debts contracted, or which
faith
To
it
was
granting
tures.
it,
To
prevent delay,
it
was
Vol. II. 14
210
THE REPUBLIC.
legislatures shall assemble, should grant
it,
[1781.
whose
for
which
The principal object of this last was to avoid the operation of the articles of confederation which were formally ratified on The annual revenue from the first of March of this year. this source was estimated at half a million of dollars. The discontinuance of the emission of paper money, it has been seen, was an act not less of justice than of necessity, as the new emission bills tainted by the old continental bills had ceased to pass. But this justice was imperfect while the public debts were payable in these bills, and while the laws making them a legal tender were
with to convene them.
resolution probably
in force.
States,
in specie value,
and
all
money equivalent, should be actually paid in specie, or other money equal thereto, according to the current exchange between such money and specie. They also recommended to the States, to amend their laws, so that the bills of credit emitted by
debts payable in specie or other
in
The whole twelve States approved these resolutions. There was only one dissenting member. A requisition
followed for a million and a half of dollars.
Absolute as
was
soon
an
Ere
in
of each
State, orders
iET. 24.]
HAMILTON".
also
211
They
silver
;
ordered
that
the
supplies of the
army
failure
of
all
money by
compulsory
recommended
the
States
where laws
making paper bills a tender still existed to repeal them. Encouraged by these indications of a disposition to act upon sound principles of finance and convinced that the true means of relief was the resort to a measure by which a new " mass of credit " could be created, and the depreciated paper be replaced by a currency of fixed
;
from the
staff
National Bank.
last
day of
his relation
Washington
by a communication
to
Rochambeau, explanatory of an
was among the first who were convinced that an administration by single men was essential to the proper management of the aflfairs of this country. I am per"I
suaded,
selves
it is
we have
to extricate our-
from the
of our cause.
It is
a fact, of which
friends in
Europe are
in the
same
disposition.
have
been
enabled
I
me
to obtain a better
; ;
212
the court of
this
THE EEPUBLIC.
France
will
[1781.
tion in their
own
if
these
were entrusted
"
and and
and fortune.
is
With
so manifest
if
we
could
spirit,
there would be
new
To me
it
appears
men
home
allies
inspire confidence in
moneyed men
in
Europe, as
it
may
be demonstrated
" I hope,
we
you
will
I
not consider
it
a compliment,
satis-
when
faction, of
" In a letter
of mine
last
summer
to
among
ment.
that departunites so
know of no
;
other in America
who
many
advantages
is
your acceptance
me
a subject of chagrin.
I flatter
by an
and
am happy
in
taking an
office,
^T.
the
24.]
HAMILTON.
less a service
213
world no
by introducing order into our finances, by restoring public credit, not by gaining 'Tis by battles, that we are finally to attain our object.
American independence.
'Tis
by temporary,
a decisive
violent,
and unnatural
efforts to bring
it
it
to
issue, that
we
to a
speedy
great
I believe,
this
work.
be removed, and
I
that
you
take
way, and of course has least occupied my inneither have I had leisure or maquiries and reflections I have been terials to make accurate calculations.
my
obliged to depend on
memory
for important
facts, for
want
"
rily
of the authorities
With
all
these disadvantages,
;
my
it
but
it
may
be a basis for
if
may may
will
At any
rate, the
confidence
have
in
me
that
this
you
sort.
If they contain
any thing
promote your
is
if not,
the
trouble of reading
them
is
will fre-
and quacks.
with
this
There
in
I trust
mine
to
your candor,
you
will at least
do justice to
my
in-
tention."
214
THE REPUBLIC.
With
[1781.
inquiry as to " what ought to be done in the finances of First, to estimate its capacity for the United States ? "
revenue, and the proportion between its abilities and its wants, by examining the proportion the revenues other
countries have borne to their wealth, and applying the Second, by comparing the result of rule to America.
that rule with the product of taxes in those States
which
to
The
result obtained,
by an examination applied
Great Britain, France, and the United Provinces was, that the revenue is one-fourth of the circulating cash in commercial countries, so far as this
its
is
a just representative of
then states the current cash of America, previous to the war, to have been about thirty millions of dollars, and that the proper of which one-eighth was specie revenue, at that time, was seven and a half millions of
He
dollars.
But
was carried
is
to
an
extreme
its full
inapplicable in
amount than might be expected, could be levied during the war, without burthening the poorer classes, from the
greater equality of fortunes, and a more equal division of Making the necessary quahficationsT the public burthens.
Having adverted to the causes of the diminished circulation, which he considers as principally artificial, he comes to the conclusion, allowing for the diminution of foreign trade, and
than
it
the loss of territory, that the States have a net revenue of six millions of dollars a result which is nearly con;
firmed by
have raised
one-fifth.
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
this
215
Taking
as the
had
at times risen to
at
twenty thou-
sand.
The expenses
He
of France, he supposes
may
justify
an expectation of a
ten
millions of livres,
which
From
policy, in
bills
drawn on
her,
more corrupt
greedy confessor,
a character on which
depend-
all its
own
uses.
capitalists
much might be
he
to
is
The prospects of
traffic in
internal loans
the
which individual
To surmount
individuals ability
and inclination
to lend, a plan
might be
216
THE REPUBLIC.
moneyed
[1781.
and an-
swer
all
A
its
pendence of
their country,
and
in its
mean,"
I re-
This
some shape or
the
other, as
an expedient essential to
pean
affairs,
war should
it
would be unwise
to
There
is
government
that extensive
and
of
our revenues
makes indispensably necessary to its operations. The longer it is delayed, the more difficult it becomes. Our affairs grow every day more relaxed and more involved. Public credit hastens to a more irretrievable catastrophe. The means for executing the plan are exhausted in partial and temporary efforts. The loan now making in Massachusetts, would have gone a great way in establishing the funds on which the bank must stand. " I am aware of all the objections that have been made
to public banks,
But
all
that has
been said
good
come
ments,
the
pernicious.
The
may
be proved to be injurious.
in real
may,
manner, be denominated
evils
Mt.
24.]
HAMILTON.
and
21Y
tiousness of morals,
all
will reject
the good,
in
The
truth
is,
human
ad-
there
is
Every
and wisdom
consists in availing
much
as possible,
The tendency of
credit.
a national
bank
is
to increase
pub-
and private
The former
its
gives
power
to the
rights
and
interests,
and
com-
merce among
"Industry
individuals.
is
increased, commodities
are
multiplied,
institute
Most commercial nations have found it necessary to banks and they have proved to be the happiest engines that ever were invented for advancing trade. Venice, Genoa, Hamburgh, Holland, and England, are
;
"
examples of their
utility.
They owe
their riches,
com-
Great Britain
is
in-
been able
to
make
'Tis
many
illustrious
essentially to
by
this alone,
she
now menaces
our independence.
She
now
stands on a
'Tis in republics,
lished
abuse.
Our
its
218
" In
THE REPUBLIC.
my
opinion,
[1781.
we ought
we
its
;
specie
commerce began to droop for want of a proper medium its taxes were unproductive, and its revenues declined. The administration wisely had recourse to the institution
of a bank, and
it
We
is
dium.
We
in a
have
little
specie
the paper
less.
we have
of
We
are im-
mersed
war
We
have no revenues,
is
nor no credit.
bank,
if
practicable,
Besides
it
in
common
West
Indies,
tages.
"
Nothing
is
men
it.
to pass
from
per-
Some
by the depreciation of the money, are it would be beneficial to abolish all paper, and annihilate the whole of what is now in circulation, and depend altogether upon specie, both The scheme is altogether for commerce and finance. We have visionary, and in the attempt would be fatal.
chimerical enough to imagine
this
country, either to
have,
am
To
suppose
this
would be
of com-
-^T. 24.]
HAMILTON.
219
four-fifths; a supposition
on the face of it. It follows, that if our paper money were destroyed, a great part of the transactions of traffic must be carried on by barter a
;
mode inconvenient, partial, confined destructive both of commerce and industry. With the addition of the paper we now have, this evil exists in too great a degree." Having shown that if all the specie could be drawn
;
into the treasury annually, the consequence of such a measure, which never was effected in any country, would be a complete stagnation of business and that a recourse
;
to taxes in kind
inefficacious,
he pro-
ceeds to observe,
"
The
error of those
by
private credit.
The
March, 1780, have partly the former advantage, but are destitute of the latter, which is equally essential. No paper credit can be substantial or durable, which has not
funds, and which does not unite immediately, the interest and influence of the moneyed men, in its establishment and preservation. A credit begun on this basis will, in
its
funds
its
A NATIONAL BANK ALONE THAT WE CAN FIND THE INGREDIENTS TO CONSTITUTE A WHOLESOME, SOLID, AND BENEFICIAL PAPER CREDIT."
The length to which these extracts have extended does not warrant the publication more at large of this elaborate document.
mere
twenty
now
be given.
The
capital of the
bank was
to consist of a stock
of
220
three
THE REPUBLIC.
millions of dollars, divided into
thirty
[1781.
thousand
shares, to be
exempted from
all
The
and
landed securities
possible
amount of
The bank
to
have
all
legal
member of
the incorporation
by suit, to the extent of his stock. The privilege of subscribing for one-half of
the capi-
tal stock, to
become conjointly responsible with the private proprietors, for all the transactions of the bank, which was to be authorized to issue notes, with and without interest, a part
only payable in America, the residue in Europe.
The
bank stock
one-half of
or
and
to
borrow
to the
stock,
by annuities, to have the privilege of coining, amount of one-half of its stock, (the quantity of
the
to purchase estates,
amount of by principal
to the alloy,
power of discounting foreign bills of exchange, to receive deposits of plate or money, which deposits were to be exempt from taxation, to have the right of contracting with the French government, for the supply of its fleets and armies in America, and to contract with
with a condition
cent.,
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
all
221
govern
future loans
for
The
was
to enable
The bank
of
all
to
;
become responsible
for the
the paper
third, at the
per cent.
for
which
re-
The bank
lic
notes to be received in
payment of
all
pubsil-
ver, with
power
to
made
payment of
its
debts.
Its stock to
be transferable.
To be
Three
offices to
be established,
and Virginia,
the
and payment of
bank notes
the whole to be
managed by twelve
proceedings.
full
institution
limits
of
this
work,
of
this plan,
may
is
not be misplaced.
The
cial
capital stock,
commerobjec-
deemed most
tionable.
But
it
is
to be
222
THE REPUBLIC.
[1781.
The
mo-
bank of Eng-
by no means obvious
less effective.
the stock
to
and that
was sought
But
this
con-
amount
still
its
representative.
meet
would be
less objection-
fund to be appropriated to
its
current uses.
but as this
the prevail-
when
amidst a choice of
evils, to
would furnish
this
a capital of which
was
sated.
The power of
coining money,
^Et. 24.]
HAMILTON.
;
223
bank to convert its plate into specie but it was a power which, under proper checks, might have
to enable the
The
from
cie
French governdesirable
armies,
was highly
and
credit
and
the contracts,
subscribers.
The
article
fluc-
amount of the government issues a difficulty which was increased by this circumstance, that this plan proposed to embrace all the State emissions, as essential to every effi;
cient
scheme of
finance,
system of
The permission to the bank to dissolve itself at pleasure, was introduced to encourage men to adventure in it, from a confidence, that when once engaged, the profits
would induce them
to continue.
In reply to the inquiry, where funds are to be procured, in the present impotent state of the federal gov-
" I
they must
;
them that
is
a bubble
224
THE REPUBLIC.
[1781.
them
that, in short,
they
own
honor, re-
a
;
on trade
their
own
Confederation.
my
;
but the
mere municipal law of each State and I wish to see a CONVENTION OF ALL THE States, with full powcr to alter and amend, finally and irrevocably, the present futile and
senseless confederation."
The form of
all
other matters,
may
be easily determined.
If the leading
we shall find good models European banks, which we can accommoGreat care,
in
particular,
;
and
methods
may
effectual.
of
this kind,
final
to risk
impossible.
we
have to fear
is,
that the
want of
and enfeeble
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
But
a judicious administration of
place,
225
for peace
on
our
any
terms.
if
finances, assisted
by a bank, takes
is
security of property
restored,
no convulsion
to be
apprehended.
Our
'Tis
not in their
power
to
subdue us by
force of arms
in
all
more
possible
them much
Indies
to
augment
this
number.
In
West
demand
reinforcements.
the islands,
this time,
above
to the
five
thousand
men
proper garrisoning of
lose a mari-
much cause
They
will
probably send
to recruit their
Our
in
allies
have
five
thousand
men
Rhode
Island,
which
plan.
Should
themselves with
points.
This
is
the
means of putting
By
stop-
try the
draw their resources. They are in a situation, where want of splendid successes is ruin. The game we
Vol.
XL 15
226
play,
is
THE REPUBLIC.
a sure game,
if
[1781.
we
play
it
with
skill.
have
cal-
vantageous
side.
to
Many
events
may
of the summer
make even
the present
campaign
decisive.^*
A
to
summary
pay
calculation to
show
On
" It
the twenty-sixth of
May,
the Superintendent of
Finance replied
is
some time
which
it
since I received
last.
your performance,
it
have read
with that
many
points of
ject,
it
to coincide with
my own
naturally
strengthened
that
confidence which
his
every
man
own judgment.
You
will
bank published, and subscriptions opened for its establishment, having already met with the approbation of Congress.
It
by a paper
what
it
The
your
far short of
ought to be
sum
in the outset,
fatal
;
and
fail in
might prove
to
clearly in our
to establish
power
to accomplish,
command
bank, but
am
apprehensive
it
to the public
that credit
in its
fail
payments
any consider-
iEx. 24.]
HAMILTON".
it,
227
its
able run on
ruin will be
have, there-
of the
di-
whom,
I
in
due time,
I shall
com-
and
for these,
and
all
My
office is
new, and
am young
in the
execution
abilities
of
it.
will
ever
command
to
the attention
The plan
was submitted
The
silver.
capital
was
to be four
hundred thousand
dollars,
in shares of four
Its notes
in gold or re-
ceivable
capital
:
for taxes
was authorized to inspect the books and on the last day of the year, an ordinance passed, incorporating it under the name of the Bank of North America. Great as was the merit of Morris in the suggestion of
the superintendent of finance
;
* The votes on
Of
New
New
Of
Jersey,
Maryland, Virginia, North and South Carolina, and Georgia, were in favor.
Massachusetts was against
it,
the four
228
this plan,
TEE REPUBLIC.
he acquired a
still
[1781.
stronger
title
to applause for
it
the
skill,
was carried
into execution.
His principal reliance for a supply of coin, was founded upon an engagement of the Governor General of Havannah to remit to the United States four hundred thousand
dollars in specie, to be repaid
flour,
by annual shipments of
which were
to
bank,
when
it
commenced
;
its
of
this small
it
from them,
any price, so
as to return
ment
safe
and after
utility
had been
nishing a
the States, as
metals'; re;
lief in the
facilities
increased
country
the.
State of Pennsylvania,
by which
it
also
had
been incorporated, under the delusion of popular prejudice, repealed its charter, on the extraordinary ground of
the dangerous influence of foreign capital, on the free institutions
of the country.
It
capital, that
it is
seen, but
The convention of
all
the States to
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON".
229
establish a constitution of
to
little
countenance in Congress.
The
articles of confederation
were
to
tried experiment.
Not alive to the dangers of unbalanced power, they were content to seek relief to the
amend
the confedera-
and
With
appointed.
enumerated the
show-
chiefly important as
as of
is
power
it
enumerto the
war may
recommended
in time
These were
to lay embargoes
of
war without
any
limitation
war;
ence
to appoint collectors
Union any part or more of the United States with the consent of the dismembered
into the
and admit
States
State dehnquent in
its
assigned proportion of
suff^-age in
men
or
money
to
Congress and in
the States.
230
THE REPUBLIC.
[1781.
and of pursuing,
New York
to au-
but a proposal
now made
to Congress,
It
who,
who
justified
exercise of an implied
power of
fearful impoi't.
"
As
the
confederation
now
much
less inti-
in case
by
Con-
confederation, as required
by
employment by sea as by
fill
land, to
their federal
distraint
on any of the
and merchandises
their trade
wherever found
and
to prohibit
and prevent
compensation or
all
requisitions
made by
iEx. 24.]
HAMILTON.
is
231
seen
proving
them
fairly implied
a proposition " to
enact a
war."
is
In
his letter to
Duane, Hamilton
called," he
minds of
the States,
its
determinations by sen-
To
staff*,
now
his
great object.
On
of
his leisure in
This
comprehensive
in the
The
Continentalist."
It
was
form of
by the State to print its laws.* The first number appeared on the twelfth of July, dur-
New
York.
On
we commenced,"
he remarked, "
it is
at that
we have done
There
so
we have
are, in-
as
hand,
steps,
it
others for magnanimity. But on the other must be confessed, there have been many false
many
in the
affairs.
management of our
spirit
An
extreme
jealousy of
power
is
the attendant on
all
popular revolu-
* Loudon's
New York
Packet.
232
tions,
THE REPUBLIC.
and has seldom been without
its evils,
[1781.
It
is
to this
source
we
are to trace
many
will
common
cause
particure-
which
marks,
want of power
in
Having thus
and
opened
his subject,
this jealousy, as
shown
;
the
history of ancient
modern confederacies stating the principle, that " in a government framed for durable liberty, not less regard
must be paid to giving the magistrate a proper degree of
authority, to
to
community.
despotism, too
much power," he
;
said,
"leads to
little
leads to anarchy
In confirmation of
ber,*
powerful for
lative
his constituents,
legis-
command
of the national
forces,"
"
The
must consist
to gain
was
has
distinct
with
all
the
incidental
to
re-
powers and
sist
influences.
ready organized
The
ten-
dency
largely
shown from
the force of
by
historical examples.
In the
* Since the publication of the Works of Hamilton, the editor has fortunately obtained the missing numbers.
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
233
third
United States from those of the European federative governments, and the certainty, their removed situation
spiring security from
in-
foreign
if the
fed-
eral GOVERNMENT SHOULD LOSE ITS AUTHORITY, CIVIL WARS would follow." The probabilities of this are deduced from the principles of human nature, and the condition of the confederacy at that time.
" The government command the means to pay, clothe, or feed their The enemy making an alarming progress in the in
unable to
troops.
them
though
now
in part
army
force
under
Cornwallis
blush,
still
formidable to Virginia.
We
ought to
our situation,
force
levies,
when we acknowledge that this is a true picture of when we reflect, that the enemy's whole
in
the
and the
more than
fourre-
men
by
commencement of
all
with
the necessaries of
life,
merce, that
we
when we began
the contest,
,and an
wants.
ally,
And
that
we have on
by
our defence."
gen-
eral DISAFFECTION of
their
pCOpIc, Or 3IISMANAGE3IENT in
we make, and
for
we
experience, contending
That
it is
is
234
THE REPUBLIC.
[1781.
the enemy,
rulers."
Too much
shown
to
make
Too sanguine
and th
The
resources
confi-
But
an early peace
might involve a
sacrifice
of part of the
that,
we ought
Congress.
tion, will
Every
suffice.
plan, of
which
be illusory.
The
will
never
of a
common
council, with
power
or can
make
us a
happy people
he stated,
difficulty,"
judgment
definitively
on the
No-
The
POWER OF REGULATING TRADE Comprehending a right of granting bounties and premiums by way of encouragement
toms
;
nue as regulation
;
of appointing
all
officers
of the cus-
in
extraordinary emertax,
gencies.
moderate levied
throughout the
acre,
United States, of a
pound or per
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
;
235
and,
col-
own
lectors.
Fourth.
The
all
Fifth.
certain pro-
all
mines discovered or to be
Sixth.
same
right of collection.
The appointment of
every rank."
"
all
The
three
first articles
would be of great present, but of much greater future utility the whole combined, would give solidity and permanency to the Union. The great defect
the three last
;
of the confederacy
is,
that
it
means
of acquiring
it,
And power without revenue in political society, is a name. While Congress continue altogether dependent on the occasional grants of the several States, for the
means of
it
can
Credit supposes
permanent funds
payment of
in
terest,
redemption of
is argued at some length. was admitted, would be deficient. This deficiency must be supplied by loans, and such loans
the principal."
This subject
it
The revenue,
in
One of
the
means of loaning
indicated,
is
national bank.
their publication
The succeeding numbers were written at this time, but was accidentally delayed. The fifth is devoted to an argument of the necessity
236
THE EEPUBLIC.
This
[1781.
power of regulating
TRADE.
is
of conflicting State
The
as
is
adduced
an
example, and the advantages of a revenue derived from import duties are indicated.
plan
is
proposed to meet
tariffs, if
adhered
far the
many
The
sixth,
power of regu-
his
great characteristic
a discretion
is
also seen.
"
Easy
duties on
upon land."
The great
art
is
to distribute
and not
or
last, to fall
shown of granting
to the
its
Fed-
Government adequate
relying
is
"The
Federal
Government," he observes,
much dependits
want
the
means of maintaining
own
To
this end,
permanent funds are indispensable but they ought to be of such a nature and so moderate in their amount, as
never to be inconvenient."
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
collection of the national revenues,
is
237
The
by
officers
appointed by Congress,
shown
is
to be essential to the
and
would be the means of mass of influence " The great danin favor of the Federal Government. ger," he says, has been shown to be, " that it will not have
military officers, of every rank,
creating, in the interior of each State, a
power enough
not that
liberty.
it
to
defend
will ever
mere regard
Force
cannot
"
effect
it.
mon
tween
each other
sympathy of
situations, will
be apt to proapplication of
It will
The
always disagreeable
and
will
make
it
difficult
for
them
to
There
is
common
in-
tranquil
;
and
is
prosperous
at
home, respectable
abroad
there
and contemptible,
States, with the
ous,
prospect of a
number of petty
and perverse,
without
at
jarring,
jeal-
any determined
direction,
fluctuating
and unhappy
238
THE REPUBLIC.
whom
[1781.
by
Happy
America,
know how
spirit
of discord to erect
!
" her banners on the ruins of thy tranquillity Such were the sentiments of a man, whose views have
been so much, and so designedly misrepresented whose strong solicitude for the liberties of America, saw in the
;
constitutional
who
sought
connect with every grant of power, its appropriate check and, who having advised every precaution for the
;
public safety, which the most prudent foresight could suggest, believed that
the
people,
was
as
an
honest administration
by
their rulers.
CHAPTER
XXVII.
concentrating upon
the Southern States,
in public
Most important events were now Virginia. The Eastern, the Middle,
vate exertions and sacrifices.
and
pri-
Amid
this
great competi-
Freedom, Vir-
ginia
aloof.
Upon
to
the
was
have
among
cast a
first
seemed content
to
Were
The wrong,
the gross
all
wrong
re-
were the
Counting a
militia
whom
inhabited
the
war," t she might in one campaign have rescued the Carolinas from the enemy and expelled the invaders from
her
soil.
The language of
scene shows to
whom
to
be ascribed.
to Jefferson,
at Charlotte,
"Your troops," General Greene wrote when his eyes first beheld them with pity
"
may
literally
I shall
ii.
be obliged
55.
* Sidney.
f Life of Greene,
240
THE REPUBLIC.
number of them away
It will
[1781.
to send a considerable
into
some
to
warm
send
men
but a dead weight upon the army, and altogether incapable of aiding in
its
operations.
pride or principle to
make a
soldier.
No man
will think
him
to perish for
want of covering
by
Henry Lee,
the
driven out of
safety
by
flight,
and
its
archives, with
all
its
munitions
and
common
is
lot.
The legislature adjourned on the last day of December, when news of Arnold's arrival came. " The people in the lower country finding the metropolis gone and the enemy unresisted,
nevertheless true." f
flight,
and
left
their property at
mercy of
the
invader.
What
rulers
!
ills
timidity
and impotence of
cause
is
common
vain
and
illusory, unless
amazed
at
the
revolting
ii.
by Johnson,
War,
ii.
i.
339.
6.
t Lee's Southern
14.
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON".
241
scene before him, the brave old veteran Steuben felt it necessary to his honor to vindicate himself. On the eighth
of January, he addressed a circular to Washington and to the Board of War. In this indignant exposition, he
mentions
his call
for mili-
tary aid, relates the progress of the enemy, his powerless, hopeless condition, his final successful effort to deter their
crossing
the
James.
I
"except those
a single man," he wrote, had sent out," (these were one hundred
had,) " presenting himself
"Not
and
fifty
I thought it prudent to cross the river in the evening, and took my quarters in Manchester. Next day about twelve o'clock, the
to oppose the
enemy took
marched
men and
shot."
receiving
single
"About
their
Westham on
way down, but hearing of the enemy's approach, and being without arms, they dispersed. The greatest
distress
we now
feel is the
during the
last invasion,
want of arms. Great part of damaged by the militia were scattered at difl'erent places,
and never collected or repaired. Those which were at Richmond were on the enemy's approach sent off in such
disorder, that part of
militia are
them are not yet to be found. The now coming in, and no arms to put in their
five
hundred men
" *
excused himself by a strict construction. " As arms," he wrote Steuben,t " were never among the
requisitions
made by Congress on
it
iu collection of
i.
Life of Greene,
by Johnson,
439.
Vol. II. 16
242
THE EEPUBLIC.
[1781.
time, as
They have only had in view, to procure from time to many as might arm their militia when necessity required the calling them into service. From this stock
they have
is
furnished
use,
till
it
many
arm
it
their
own
continental levies."
was not the people of Virginia but their gov" The ernor, that was remiss, is beyond all question. wrote week after the capture of RichSteuben a militia,"
That
mond,
" the
militia are
It is
coming
in
from
all
quarters, but
I
without arms.
am
in.
"
Large
" are
Jefferson,
of arms, applying
would be highly improper to me I must beg leave to sugfor me to interfere with them. gest to your excellency that men without arms can answer no purpose, but the consumption of provisions." " The militia already embodied are without camp-kettles, and entirely destitute of tents. As we may expect snow and severe weather in a day or two, I beg your excellency
for orders, but
think
it
would appoint an
collect
officer
whose business
it
may
as
be to
as
the
tents
soon
possible."
The
first
reinforcements to Greene.
He had
succeeded
in organiz-
and twenty-six hundred militia under Weedon, Nelson and others, who were on march to the Dan. He thus
excuses
his
delay to Greene
" I
ing the governor for the clothing for the troops at this
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON".
but, with
all
243
I
place
my
should have been able to have equipped them here in six weeks, if a quantity of stores had not arrived from the
northward."
With
him
feelings mortified
his "
ill
ben regretting
to the
it.
success," entreated
Greene
to call
Southern army.
The
exigencies of Virginia
foi'bade
In vindication of himself, JeflTerson prepared an official statement.* He represented Virginia as having in the
two thousand three hundred and twenty-one men, and acknowledged a deficiency below her quota of three thousand one hundred and eighty-eight. " Arms," he adfield
mitted, "
we have
actually with Greene he were twelve hundred and sixty, that the whole number in service engaged for the war were only two hundred and four " the rest for various and generally
stated
!
them."
sult.
fit
The field return of the army exhibited a diflferent The Virginia brigade showed a total rank and
hundred and thirty-four men,
Jefferson.
refile
thirty
one-half of the
alry
number claimed by
at
The
ca^--
computed
three
hundred
men.
It
people.
has been previously said, the fault was not with the On the nineteenth of February, Stevens was
ordered by Greene to engage volunteers in the service for six months, and, before four days had expired, a thousand men were enrolled.
The
24:4
THE REPUBLIC.
who had
laid aside the
[1781.
sylvania,
Lutheran clergyman, now a general, wrote to Greene " I must acknowledge it is derogatory to the honor of the
State, to suffer such a handful of
men
to retain possession
so long,
(now
1
six weeks,)
but what,
my
dear general,
I
is
to
he done
They
thousand men, and among the whole three hundred bayonets and
for
two brass pounders Arnold, shut up in Portsmouth, was not a For this he was indebted to his safety.
!
little
alarmed
This
the delay of
squadron
left
New
was followed
two days
after
by a part of the
and overtaken
to
An
Rhode Island. The advance of La Fayette towards Virginia indicated Near the end of the necessity of reinforcing Arnold. March, General Philips, with two thousand troops, joined
him, busy strengthening his lines.
Jefferson, informing
to
him that the term of service of the troops under Muhlenberg was about to expire, and urged He proposed to send forward more their re-enlistment.
aid to Greene.
" only seveji
for,
he states
have come
of these
wrote
my opinion," he
for the
will be impossible
Southern army
to continue in
it
is
with pain
announce
Philips,
to
place
is
very distant."
upon
whom
the
command had
devolved, was
fortifications
of Portsmouth, he
felt
Meet-
vEt. 24.]
HAMILTON.
pubhc
2i5
ing no serious resistance, he penetrated the State in separate detachments, destroying the
stores,
wasting
with Steuben,
tersburg.
who
had broken up a naval force in the James, he advanced Manchester, opposite Richmond.
to
La Fayette
his individual
in the
mean
made a
rapid
Philips
abandoned
his object,
and
re-
down
There he remained
La
vented
its
moved towards
it,
he again
passed over the James, and took post a few miles below
Richmond.
Cornwallis, having
made
his toilsome
march through
He
impressment of horses.
objected
fine
to.
It
The law was unpopular and was excepted those used for breeding. The
his
supply.
He mounted
59.
246
THE REPUBLIC.
[1781.
men, pushed through the alarmed unopposing counties watered by the Meherin and the Nottoway, and on the
twentieth of
May
new
scene of glory.
Steuben had written Jefferson a few days before, Armand's legion " is in a very distressed condition, not having received pay since June last, and not being provided with clothing by the public, are naked."
after he
Two days
wrote
" It
is
employed by
January.
this
shameful neglect
Steuben certainly was not dallying along the path of popularity. On the twenty-third of May, he wrote to Washington and to the Board of
War,
that,
determined " to raise only three thousand, and those only He remonstrated through Jefferfor eighteen months."
son, to the
now reassembled
that the
equipment
of three hundred cavalry was of the highest moment, but that the price limited by law was " utterly inadequate to
the purchase of the meanest horse."
On
"
the
to his friend
from
Richmond
My
dear Hamilton,
an objection
my
;
dear friend,
my
complaint
is
quite of
to
an opposite nature
and
make, so
many
difficulties to
*
many enemies
to
May
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON".
am
just that
247
a general as will
nail
much of
make me an
the
historian of misfortunes,
and
my name
army
in Virginia.
" There is an age past since I heard from you. I acknowledge that on my part I have not written so often as
I
ought
to
have done
this silence in
favor of
my
However
remote you
may
camp
ters.
to the commander-in-chief, I
am
every transaction
head-quarI
My
letters
shall
Our
forced
am very
happy.
made
I
me
ad-
have estab-
upon James and Appomatox Had Philips marched to Halifax, I was determined to follow him, and should have risked every thing rather than omit making a diversion in favor of Greene. But that army took possession of Petersburg, and obliged
a
communication
rivers.
me
river,
whence
reinforcetheir junc-
thousand men.
is
We
;
have
their
no continentals
their infantry
Our
is
numerous, with-
energy
eral
and there
State,
polite
Greene has directed me to take command and I must tell you, by the way, his letter and
affectionate.
It
very
ar-
then became
my
duty to
248
THE REPUBLIC.
I
[1781.
found
and relaxation
the
few new
we
am
was
General Wayne's detachment cannot be heard of? They but should I have them for a few are to go to Carolina
;
days,
will
am
may
at
This permission I
improve
beat, I
at least
There
Lord Cornwallis is very strong, others make him very weak. In this country there is no getting
are accounts that
good
intelligence.
if
you
approve of
my
conduct.
The command of
the waters,
durst not
;
my
to
speak truth,
enemy.
tious, as I
I was afraid of myself as much as of the Independence has rendered me the more cau-
but
if
nians come.
victory.
shall
pay something
wish a reinforcement of light infantry, to recruit the battalions, or a detachment under General Huntington was sent to me. I wish Laurens or Sheldon were imme" I
diately despatched
Come
If
here,
my
I
dear friend,
and command
want your advices and your exertions. request, you will vastly oblige your friend." Cornwallis, the next day, crossed the James
you grant
at
my
Westat
New
La
Fayette.
Too weak
to
latter retired
/Et. 24.]
HAMILTON.
249
this
of a few
militia,
Simcoe was detached where were military stores in charge and Tarleton was ordered with a body
to " disturb the
of mounted
men
assembly then
sitting at
at this
Charlotteville." *
as a
Hero, while
when
Virginia
was
in
immediate danger of
short time before, he
thousand
sand
to protect the
difficulties,
con-
citizens."
"
few days," he
me
that relief
my
it
my way
for retirement to a
I
private station
still,
an individual,
have the
him
" Notwithstand-
you have a
right to
i.
Henry
Clinton.
f Memoirs of Jefferson,
222.
250
THE REPUBLIC.
you have given me
I
[1781.
and the
interest
in
your
leisure
by
the
of your administration.
final
But
all
as
you seem
have
made up your
I
doubt
not, well
I shall
weighed
it
it is
grounded,
lament
in silence."
forward
office,
in the present
his retreat
but
the
hill
of Monticello,
es-
" * of Carter's
Mountain and
We
know
not,"
legislature or executive."
The
legislature reassembled at
and thence again invoked the aid of Morgan " We are truly sensible of the alacrity with which the people on
this side
commanded by
no time
We
in joining
the marquis.
Had
ive
an executive
we doubt
;
but
we
requisition,
Having
sent on
riflemen hastened to
La
Fayette.
iv.
* Memoirs of Jefferson,
42.
.Et. 24.]
HAMILTON".
extremity, Richard
251
forgot his pre-
In
this
Henry Lee
" Let General Washington," he wrote, " be immediately sent to Virginia with two or three thousand good troops. Let Congress, as
crisis, direct, that
and that
it
when convened,
powers
;
may
be
may be summon
resettle their
same day General Nelson was chosen governor, a choice welcomed by Greene. Washington declined the
the
On
proffered power.
Jefferson had twice escaped the enemy, the next thing
was
to
The
this
the mediation of a
at the
from the disgrace, passed a healing vote of thanks of past and prospective expurgation, f
* June
12.
f In a defence of JeflPerson, published in Virginia, September 19, 1800, it is stated that a committee was appointed on tlie twenty-sixtli of November, 1781,
to state
be offered respecting
On
the investigation absented himself, and the committee reported, " no information being offered on the subject matter, except rumors," their opinion tliat
252
THE EEPUBLIC.
In the absence of an enemy, Cornwallis
[1781.
now marched
La Fayette being joined by the Pennsylania line under Wayne, recrossed the Rapidan, moved rapidly upon him, and encamped within a day's march of his place of The earl, to secure his object, and hoping destination.
stores.
to intercept the
at
La
body of mountain
adverse force,
Here a came up. Overestimating the Cornwallis abandoned the small objects in
militia
first
to
to
Wil-
liamsburg.
La Fayette
An
New York
as soon as he
had estab-
from Williamsburg.
On
his
march,
Wayne
to
be unsupported.
British
While
approaching
it,
army, moving
towards him,
in order of battle.
spirited
resolution,
" to obviate
all
fu-
The
The movements
from Marshall,
i.
La
Fayette.
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
253
when La
and
to
retreat
form
in line
Green Springs. Though superior in numbers, and with every advantage on his side, he did not pursue this inferior force, worn down by long,
and with
insufficient supplies
in
mouth, thence,
order of Sir
to
Henry
New
York.
on that
troops.
post, indicated
by
the
movements of
to
assail
the allied
in
his
Washington, hoping
condition,
Clinton
weakened
moved down the Hudson. The sixth of July, Rochambeau joined him. The right of the Americans laid upon the Hudson as low as Dobbs' Ferry, the French encamped upon their left, extending to the
forts
were erected,
allies
indicating
some decisive
it,
apprised of
hastened
from Albany
to head-quarters at
reached two days after the French army had come up.
Thence he wrote to his wife on the tenth of July " 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
;
letter,
my
commisname,
me
in his
254
pressed
that he
THE REPUBLIC.
me
to retain
[1781.
my
I
would endeavor by
means, to give
me
a com-
Though
had rejected
this proposal,
a pleasI
my
me
to afford you.
consented to retain
my
mand.
officers
I quarter, at present,
by a very
polite
and
*
warm
*
invitation,
*******
it
The command was formed by the organization of New York troops into a battalion, which, confided to Hamilton, became part of the advanced corps of the army. A detachment of the enemy into New Jersey oflfering a favorable moment for the contemplated attack upon New York, The sudden redispositions were made for that purpose.
turn of the detachment rendering
inexpedient, the ad-
state of the
Americans,
all
seemed
to
render
In
and remote.
Rochambeau
at Weathersfield,
Washington intimated
then in the
French
coast,
fleet,
West
Indies,
on the American
might
be-
He now
gan
to
La De
In the mid-
his
presence on
.Et. 24.]
HAMILTON.
limited
255
the
by
his
engagements
to the
middle of October.
to
La Fayette
to take
Wayne,
if
armament might prompt. he had not advanced too far, was to be halted.
NOTE.
A letter
was coming
here.
He
marched
;
him
but
me
observe, in justice to the people at large, that there are fewer disaf-
fected
by
The
was, that in the confusion the arms were sent everywhere, and no timely
assembling.
The
He can
hardly be himself,
credited."
Col.
Samuel Smith
to 0.
without opposition.
be-
defend themselves.
Oh, Virginia
Is this
Perhaps, now, eased of their riches and deprived of their slaves, they
may
be-
come
useful
members
of society."
CHAPTER
CoRNWALLis,
in the
XXVIII.
had changed
his position,
mean
time,
mand
was
This
movement
in
Comfort
in
it
Hampton Roads,
or at Yorktown.
survey rendering
command
when
The
first
there.
in
conformity
Washington would be compelled to take refuge in the " So very contemptible," Lord George Germain wrote to Clinton, " is the rebel force now, in all parts, and so vast is our superiority every where, that no
that
Eastern States.
is
to be
ii.
* Stedman,
396.
^T.
24.J
HAMILTON.
257
I'ebellion."
first
To
ob-
ject of the
Americans.
With
this
view,
Wayne, under
to the
was detached
La Fayette holding himself ready co-operate with him, should the enemy move. To insure the aid of De Grasse, Du Portail was orhis arrival,
next,
up the
to send
Elk
all
his
frigates, transports
The
his
" I wrote
I
you by the
which
corps.
my
Major Fish
an
officer."
with me.
and
few days
" In
my
I
activity
am
you
pain.
begged your
father, at the
same
time, to
inti-
mate
place.
to you,
I
by degrees, the probability of its taking used this method to prevent a surprise, which
A
;
my
going to Virginia
at a
and
must, of necessity,
be separated
wife.
I
much greater
distance from
my
I
beloved
feel-
fatal necessity,
without
feel.
I
am
un-
happy
am unhappy beyond
Vol. II. 17
expression.
am unhappy,
258
because
I
THE REPUBLIC.
am
to
[1781.
than
I
because I am am accustomed
;
to to
;
am
miserable, because
know you
tell
will be so
am wretched
all
you
all
my
pains and
visit
my
love.
But
you.
It
my
corps at such a
see-
time,
must go without
ing you
go.
alas
must
shall
But
let
we
Though
it
to give
your expectations
a different turn,
able.
It is
by Cornwallis
October, and
At
I
all
by
my
home.
Don't mention
am
going to Virginia."
It
was of
The
idea
was thrown
French fleet was expected at Shrewsbury, and that the army was to march and join it there. Ovens were built at Chatham as though for the supply of the French troops, others near Sandy Hook, and forage was contracted
for, to
be delivered there.
stratagem
by Washington, which proved entirely successful. An individual, who had been employed by him to gain intelligence, was ascertained to be in the pay
also resorted to
was
of Sir
Henry
Clinton.
quarters,
.Et. 24.]
HAMILTON.
marked with
the pretended route of the
259
the purpose,
to
army
upon
New
York.
Anxious
as
it
once
We
with
who was
in the opinion
had caused.
The command of the troops, destined for the protection of West Point, being confided to General Heath, the American army crossed the Hudson to Stony Point on
the twenty-first of August, followed immediately
by
that
of France.
To keep up
Whippany. On the thirtieth, Washington, accompanied by Rochambeau, proceeded from Trenton to Philadelphia, where they remained
five
and
New
Bruns-
all
of
whom were
sels
on the Delaware.
De
Grasse
in the
Ches-
apeake.
it
reached Philadelphia,
mounted on
in "
scaffolds
and
crowds
to
Memoir
of
Abbe Robin,
p. 46.
260
THE REPUBLIC.
From
:
[1781.
this
September
" Yesterday,
my
lovely wife,
wrote
you inclosing a
for
letter in
one
to
your
of Mr. Morris.
To-morrow
we
embark
Yorktown. I cannot refuse myself the pleasConstantly uppermost in ure of writing you a few lines. my thoughts and affections, I am happy only when my
to
to
some
you.
be able to
you
all I feel,
and
own
is
heart,
and you
mine.
What
a
all
w orld
will
soon be between us
insufficient.
my
fortitude
who have
and
Ciras-
my
knowledge,
me
we
shall certainly
meet.
arated.
nouncing public
vain pursuit of
to you.
their time
their tranquillity in a
be it my object to be my better angel." Again he wrote from Annapolis " How chequered is human How precarious is happiness How easily do we life
happy
in a quiet retreat,
it
for a
shadow
reflec-
painful application.
am
going to do
my
duty.
Our
of men.
At
this
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
261
New York
necticut.
under Arnold
to
make
a descent
upon Con-
He
mouth of the tranquil Thames, he boldly attacked the forts which command the harbor, carried them after a spirited resistance, burnt the town of New London, and retired, comthe blood of his native State.
Landing
at the
mending his troops for their " intrepidity and firmness." The wanton cruelty of the invaders w^as long a theme of A sw^crd w^as plunged into the body of just reproach.
the
commanding
officer
ing his
own
punishment
after
and
his troops
It
were bayoneted
was
life
of
The
maraud
head of
his
advanced corps
operation of
De
Grasse.
several vessels of
Being apprised of the positions of the British army, war were detached by the French ad-
an auxiliary
Marquis de
St.
La
Fayette,
Having
visited
Mount Vernon on
his route,
where he
Washput
ington reached
La Fayette
Hence he announced
coast,
to Congress, that
De Grasse had
who
New
On
receiving infor-
De
262
troops
THE EEPUBLIO.
who were embarked "
his return,
:
[1781.
at
But learning
the
American army
as
it
As soon
sir,
our position
Every day we now lose is an age. is in our power with safety, we ought to take near the enemy. Hurry on, then, my dear
"
He now,
in
Knox and Du
return
to
Portail,
Williamsburg
Buoyant with the prospect of success, at the moment the troops were preparing to march toward the enemy, a letfrom De Grasse announced a change of purpose. The arrival of a reinforcement of British ships alarmed
ter
him
the
at
mouth of
sea, that, in
case the
enemy
" I
see," he
the
may
not leave
me
free to return
Such a movement would put to hazard the whole conDuring his absence, the British fleet might enter, and Cornwallis be rescued. Washington incerted operation.
stantly wrote, dissuading his departure in the most ear-
nest terras.
it
La Fayette was
was accompanied by Hamilton. De Grasse was induced to change his purpose, and made the necesis
related,
sary dispositions to
Cornwallis, in the
considering
command the York. mean time, seeing his danger, was modes of escape. One idea was to attack La
his
Fayette in
Another was
to
abandon
his post,
and
march
to
South Carolina.
third, to dislodge
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
number of
ships
263
The
fire
combustibles, too
heavy
af-
ships.
Their
rowed
to the shore.
the twenty-eighth of September, the army began march from Williamsburg, the route through a dense wood, and approached within two miles of Yorktown, the enemy making a show of opposition with their cavalry, who were compelled to retire. Here Washington and his
its
On
tree, wait-
The
name,
now
in total
it
decay,
is
on the south
whence
derives
its
situate on a beautiful peninsula formed by the York and the James in their approach to the Chesapeake. Most of the houses formed " one street on the edge of a
cliff
river." f
is
Gloucester, consisting
between
their head-
lands
is
Yorktown was protected by an inlet, a morass, and a deep ravine. Here it was approached by two roads from Williamsburg, one along
the river, the other a short distance to the south, and
On
nearly parallel.
To command
work
was
On the
other road,
skirt
of the
vil-
were erected
a redoubt
Campaign,
p. 362.
264
THE REPUBLIC.
the entrance of the great south road from
built
[1781.
Hamp-
From
left
this
a series of defences.
On
the right
batteries fraized
and
These were occupied by On the left of the horn work, were the German troops. also redoubts, communications of earth and batteries, all
ported a high parapet of earth.
which were
ments.
Here
were a brigade of
On
were
the high
bank of the
narrowed by vessels sunk in the channel, and commanded by a few Two ships of war, the Charon, Guadeloupe, and others. before the advanced were abatis with smaller redoubts
also placed to control the river pass,
left, less
one
from
it.
'
The ground
difficult
in front
of the
left
was
in
some parts
approach.
by ravines, but not of The centre was protected by a thin was cut down with the branches outthe most accessible, there
it
As
the left
was
field
was
re-
solved to
make
the attack.
Within these
seven thousand
his
army of
This
except a detachment
of a few hundred
post, previous to the advance of the main body of the combined army, was invested by a brigade of militia un-
der Weedon, the French legion of Lauzun, and some French marines, all commanded by General de Choisy.
PLM OF
BRITISH ARXft'
-^Et. 24.]
HAMILTON.
the
265
On
left of Pigeon Quarter to Moor's Hill on Wormsly Creek, near the river. The French were
stationed, the
left
of the Americans.
Rochambeau with
Royal Deux
St. Si-
was
first
heard
between the American riflemen and the Yagers. Sir Henry Clinton had written Cornwallis, assuring him of reinforcements. He replied: "Your letter has
given
me
night
if relief
arrives in
any reasonable
time,
will
be both in
On
the
morning of the
all
enemy having
American light infantry took possession of them, supported by the French, and the town was completely invested on the south, two redoubts being raised about eleven hundred yards from the enemy's inner works. During the following days, the Americans were occupied, moving from the landing the stores, the heavy artillery which General Knox had ffathered and brought on with his characteristic energy,! and
erecting batteries.
evacuated
On the night of the sixth of October, the line of circumvallation was begun, and the first parallel was opened within six hundred yards of the besieged, and, when com* Tarleton's Campaign,
p.
421.
Henry Clinton
enemy
train as -would demolish his defences in so short a space of time as nine or ten
days."
THE REPUBLIC.
pleted,
[1781.
long.
It
extended
from the high ground on the river the extreme left of to a ravine that approached the horn work. the enemy
random harmless
in security.
fire
the darkness,
worked
On
American
batteries
opened
its
their fire.
precision, the
officers
In
command
in the trench-
that service,
and another
of
the park.
his
and planted
Colonel
Lamb
of
The
first
gun was
the
and
and
Washington
applied
On the ninth and tenth, six heavy batteries, three French and three American, poured a heavy fire upon the enemy, dismounted some of their guns, injured their embrasures, and compelled them to shelter their cannon
behind the merlons.
The enemy's fire was suspended, and they beheld the Charon, a forty-four gun frigate, fired by a hot shot from a French battery, on the extreme right
of the enemy, burning to the water's edge, presenling^in a serene night a beautiful and melancholy spectacle.
dispatch from Sir
Henry
communicated
projected
his
doubts of early
and spoke of an
This attack was
by Arnold.
doom
"
to
York
278.
iET. 24.]
HAMILTON.
their first parallel
267
me.
on the night of
perfected
On
We have lost
about
many
damaged.
against so
With such works, on disadvantageous ground, powerful an attack, we cannot hope to make a
opened by Steuben's
division,
The
fire
of the
The next
up a continual was returned until the emenemy's lines were closed. was completed. The lines
left flank
of York-
in
feet.
The
batteries
were
enemy being
in
The
fire
of the
it
became
can intrenchments.
it
The
incessant
fire
was
believed,
An
as-
* Tarleton's Campaign.
268
THE REPUBLIC.
[1781.
The work on the extreme left of the sault was resolved. enemy was to be stormed by the American light infantry,
comprising a part of
left,
La
Fayette's division
that
on
their
chasseurs,
so long, so
disit.
He was
was
The
fourteenth of October
Washington had
The
Major
this,
he
left
making the
attack,
on duty.
it." *
exclaiming to Fish,
"We
have
two columns.
disposition was then made in composed of Gimat's troops and Hamilton's under Fish, the left under Laurens, (recently returned from Paris,) with a small body of picked men,
it,
we have
The
The
right
who were
adiers,
enemy
in reverse.
The
redoubt on the
was
to
under Count Deux Fonts and Colonel L'Estrade, supported by the regiment Gatinois, an arrangement in^
The concerted signals of attack were a shell from the American battery and a corresponding one from the French. To divert the attention of the enemy, a sham
attack
was made on
As soon
as
Lee, in Southoffi-
La
This
is
an
eiTor.
^T.
24.]
HAMILTON.
Americans reached
its
269
zenith, that
from
who
it a moment with three of his men, encouraged the others to follow, and jumped into the ditch. Fish followed. Gimat,
receiving a
wound from
the
first
sentinel as they
were uninfantry,
retire.
The American
the counterscarp, under a heavy and from the redoubt, which, from the celerity of
was supposed
formed
his
to
have
fallen.
surrender,
the at-
The impetuosity of
before
was
passed, the
a gun," says
La
Fayette, "
was
fired.
troops did not give time for the sappers to derange the
abatis, and owing to the conduct of the commander, and bravery of the men, the redoubt was stormed with un-
common
" Few cases," Washington wrote, rapidity." f " have exhibited greater proofs of intrepidity, coolness,
this occasion."
first
of the supporting
p.
279.
La Fayette
and
Our
each and
beyond expression."
270
column, arrived
THE REPUBLIC.
at the
[1781.
moment
the advance
were getting
over the works, and executed their orders with the ut-
most
wounded.
their
The
firmness,
and formed
columns
of the
enemy with
The
was not
less distinguished
work, as soon as Hamilton saw the enemy driven back, he ordered his men to halt, and, excepting in the assault,
not a
man was
injured.
An
examples of barbarity,
and
every
man who
ceased to
resist."
Colonel Scammel of the light infantry, while reconnoitring, a few days before, was surprised by a party of
horse,
When
Colonel Campbell,
who
commanded the redoubt, advanced to surrender, a captain who had served under Scammel seized a bayonet, and drew back with the intent of plunging it into his breast, when Hamilton turned it aside,* and Campbell, exclaiming^ " I place myself under your protection," was made prisoner by Laurens.
* This statement
is
who belonged
to visit the
to this brigade
in
vol.
i.
p.
341
" I
was
desired
wounded
ears,
the
about
my
men
A
the
;
caplife
New
Hampshire, threatened to
Scammel
hut
after
he ceased to
resist."
ii.
343.
who
interposed.
"
The
whose statements are often erroneous, says, in speaking of Americans were commanded by Marquis
zEt. 24.]
HAMILTON.
the right
271
The redoubt on
celerity,
was
the
French
was
La
The Marquis
said
to General Washington,
cruelties they
The
have
practised.'
'
You have
full
comto re-
please.'
to retaliate
it.
*****
commanding
officer.
in the redoubt to
The
so
When
is
bringing them
among
death.'
themselves,
'
Why, how
this ?
We
why
they answered,
lives.' "
'
We
To
It is
could not,
so
thus
refiited
To
the Editor
of
the
Evening
Post.
New
Sir,
York,
Auffiist 10,
1802.
Finding that a
story,
it
to oblivion (and
by which
have been
Europe as America,
it
becomes a duty to
counteract
its
Ihe
was
to
La
who
be
command
York
those of the
to
I forbore to exe-
Positively and unequivocally I declare, that no such nor similar order, nor
it,
was ever by me
received, or understood
which
may
calumny.
enough
to say, that
of the Generals
With esteem
am,
sir,
sei-vant,
A. Hamilton.
272
abatis, after
THE REPUBLIC.
the
[1781.
in
the
other
Fonts,
work.
the
Deux
officers
of
dis-
tinction,
who behaved with the utmost gallantry. The fate of the enemy was now decided. The second
was continued during
before break of day.
:
parallel
two redoubts
Henry CHnton
*"
enemy
carried
my two
busy
;
in perfecting.
My
situa-
critical
I
we
and
new ones
powerful
works do not
we
shall
The
is,
therefore, so precarious,
that I cannot
recommend
run great
risk in
endeavoring
to save us."
As a
from
last resort, to
this parallel,
was
led
made by Lieuten-
Two
De
batteries
Noailles
moved forward.
The
British retreated.
They were
unspiked.
The
gallant
his
commander of
who
had placed
New
York, resolved,
the desperate
make
sword
xEt. 24.]
HAMILTON.
to avoid discovery.
273
part
when a violent storm arose. The boats were driven down the angered stream. The advanced party recrossed. The bold design was abandoned. All hope was at an end. New batteries were now completed by the Americans
;
the whole
irresistible
cannonade ensued.
" fire a single gun."
We
morning of the seventeenth, while the light infantry were in the trenches, the chamade was beaten, a
the
flag
On
sent
in,
It is
related
by Colonel
in,
when
came
the general
was
La FayHe
as soon as he
patch, sent for him, and asked his opinion as to the terms.
hostilities
were
and on the nineteenth of October, the Laurens in the negotiation represented the American army, both as an honor due to his distinguished
settled,
capitulated.
merits, and, as is said, to remind the British king, that whose father was a prisoner in the Tower,* held in
he,
his
his
army.
granted
at
the
Charleston to Lincoln,
"
who was
The treatment
Corn-
we have
enemy
good and proper but the kindness and attention that has been shown to us
by
bility
* Cornwallis,
stated,
was
Tower.
Vol. II. 18
274
of
THE REPUBLIC.
public and private, to
I
[1781.
money both
make
really
I
hope,
whenever the fortune of war shall put any of them "Great glory," says Tarleton, "necesinto our power." sarily proceeded from projects that were conceived with profound wisdom, combined together with singular propriety, and crowned with unvaried success." Congratulations and applauses poured in from every quarter of the country, throughout which the cry resounded, " Cornwallis is taken. America is free." Philaofficer,
delphia
was
illuminated.
was ordered
commanders.
"
to
The play
in a
is
La Fayette
was
I
somewhat awkward
feel less pleasure
acts,
my
and
this
do not
issue of the
campaign."
The
merit, conferred
rank of field-marshal
Yorktown.
The
obligations to
De
Grasse.*
While receiving warmest expressions of gratulatory regard from the allied armies, Hamilton thus modestly, in
a letter written to soothe the anxiety of his wife, adverts
* Testimonial of General Moultrie, Piuckney, Gadsden and others, to his
son.
^Et. 24.]
HAMILTON.
:
275
to
"
Two
me
nights ago,
my
Eliza,
my duty
attack
in
and
my
honor obhged
to take a step in
I
which your
an
much
risked.
commanded an
;
we
carried
it
and with
little loss.
You
There
thing
all
by approach
and
if
ginia.
The American arms were not only successful in VirGreene was exerting at the same time his masterly " The enemy," Hamilton relates, abilities at the south.
"
were divested of
their acquisitions in
South Carolina
and Georgia, with a rapidity, which, if not ascertained, would scarcely be credible. In the short space of two months, all their posts in the interior of the country were
reduced.
enterprise,
and
re-
of these events,
enemies.
commanded
mode of obtain-
another was instantly substituted that anIn vain was he repulsed from before a
:
defenders
relinquish
their
stronghold.
Where
prize.
force failed, address and stratagem still won the Having deprived the enemy of all their posts in
country, and
them
to
Springs
of the Eutaw.
2Y6
"
THE REPUBLIC.
[1781.
Animated, obstinate and American army, consisting of militia, after beginning a brisk attack, began to give way. At this critical and inauspicious juncture, Greene, with that collected intrepidity which never forsook him, gave orders to the second line, composed of continentals,
bloody.
to
advance
to the
This order,
enforced by example, and executed with matchless composure and constancy, could not
British
fail
of success.
The
American bayonet.
distance.
They were routed and pursued a considerable Numbers of them fell into the hands of their
pursuers,
and the remainder were threatened with a similar fate when, arriving at a position, which, with peculiar advantages, invited to a fresh stand, they rallied
and renewed
efforts
the action.
Washington, at the
of
them from
their
new
station.
He
prisoner,
and
his fol-
The
line, fell
memorable
'
conflict.
Learning that
his
countrymen were
in the noble
'"
victorious, he yielded
:
up
his last
breath
exclamation
the
Then do
this
I die
contented.'
Though
enemy by
themselves from
total ruin,
ceived too severe a blow to attempt any longer to maintain a footing in the
open country.
The day
following
Here ended
all
CHAPTER XXIX.
Late in the autumn, Hamilton returned to Albany, Welcomed to the hospitable abode of General Schuyler, he
resided there until the ensuing spring, mingling with the
where reigned a
simplicity of
manners almost
through their
patriarchal.
that distinguished
lives in relations
and confidence.
No
gress,
definitive
ton, indicated a
war with
vigor,
at the begin-
The advices received by Hamilton from La Fayette, who was in close conference with the American negotiators, and from De Noailles, of the temper of the continental powers, and the situation of the British army in the Northern
Hostilities at the south
were
virtually at
an end.
States,
gave
little
this quarter.
The
birth of a son
to
and he began
He
deemed
the
278
THE REPUBLIC.
in this country,
its
[1782.
most honorable
acters.
and
in
first
warmly urged
to
him
The
was suggested
But
him from making what was represented as a sachis sense of personal independence was high.
He
a
his reliance
on the
certainties of perseverance.
quent on
his lips.
With
this
determination he proceeded
were
in
himself, addressed
letters to the
on the
to
first
of
March
the following
commander-in-chief:
" 1
Congress
not permit
me
to be in-
may
receive of
my
con-
duct.
On
this principle,
though
an
official
communication of
it,
yet
it
might
in
to the
members of
that
honorable body.
retained on the
am
my
station, I
is
me
to
voluntarily to withdraw
frain
my
and
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
279
were annexed.
I also
wish
them
uance
it
to be apprised,
in the
my
future contin-
army
is
may
judge
how
far
is
expedient to permit
knowledge of
In
"
my
situation, in
most convenient."
this private letter
Your excellency
will, I
am
the duty of a
good
when
it
it
The
difficulties
experienced
last
campaign
to
in obfar-
taining a
command,
I
me
make any
As
have
many
reasons to consider
light, the
my
being em-
bare possibility
my scruples,
my commission.
during the war,
my military station
I
But
me
to resolve
on a
sincerely hope a
prosperous train of
may
continue to
make
it
no
in-
of persons, whose
;
but
may again
common
make
it
out of
my power
to
some renew
value, I
am
unwilling to put
my
exertions in the
280
THE REPUBLIC.
" I shall, accordingly, retain
[1782.
my
rank, while I
am
per-
mitted to do
I
it
and take
civil
this
shall
be at
all
in
any capacity,
to
owe
to myself,) in
my
contributing
the
which
embarked
from
in the service."
While
this
at Philadelphia,
his
subject,
:
friend
Meade, which
he
an-
swered
"
An
me
letter
of December
It
went
from thence
birth of
to this place.
I
I heartily felicitate
your daughter.
that occasion,
ness
one.
upon
by that which
on a similar
who
Your
heart,
this
my
Meade,
is
joyments of
kind.
happy husband, a happy father. You have every prosI hope your fehcity may never be inpect of being so.
terrupted.
"You
growing.
I
cannot imagine
I lose all
how
entirely domestic
am
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 be any longer actively engaged in it. " I have explained to you the difficulties which I met
with in obtaining a
command
last
campaign.
thought
it
incompatible with the delicacy due to myself to make any I have expressed this sentiapplication this campaign.
^Et. 25.]
HAMILTON.
letter to the general, and, retaining
281
ment
in a
my
rank
emoluments of my commission,
all
times to
obey the
the
calls
of the public.
should happen,
in a situation
again to contribute
nation.
"
my
You were
I
right in supposing
neglected to prepare
what
in
else.
promised you
at Philadelphia.
I
The
truth
is,
was
can-
As
from
I set
not,
" Imagine,
my
must give
know
that Mrs.
Meade
interests her-
My visit at
is
my
partiality.
Betsey
your
girl,
my
dear Meade,
you
will present
me most
affec-
"Yours,
"
A. Hamilton."
Having completed
he re-
282
turned to Albany
eral Schuyler, to
THE REPUBLIC.
;
[1782.
which he
an inmate, Colonel
Troup,
aid
who had
commenced
To
Supreme Court, obtained a license to practise. Such was the knowledge he acquired during this short period of four months, " that he composed a Manual on the Practice of the Law," which, Troup relates, " served as an instructive grammar to future students, and became the groundwork of subsequent enlarged practical treatises." *
An
event occurred at
this
Huddy,
part of
the
command
New
Jersey,
refugees, carried to
irons.
New
in
was privy to the death of a man who, in fact, was killed by the guard while attempting to escape, this officer was taken out of that city, by these refugees, commanded by a Captain Lippincott, and deliberately hung on the heights of Midthe pretence that he
Under
dletown.f
The
sworn
Washington.
cers,
He
offi-
who
copied this
manual
as their guide,
oue of which
f
is
in existence.
On
his
body a
label
was found
Philip White.''
Heath, 335.
.Et. 25.]
HAMILTON.
lot
283
should be selected by
proved the decision of the council, and wrote to Sir Henry Clinton
:
"
To
demand
officer
manded
given up
so
at the
;
or, if that
was of
inferior
rank
many
of the perpetrators as
will,
according to the
tariff
of exchange, be an equivalent.
To do
this will
mark
In
fail-
ure of
shall
for the
measure to which
to
I shall
resort."
Having communicated
him of
their
exemplary
retalia-
" to designate
retaliation,
Washington immediately ordered General Hazen by lot a British captain for the purpose of
who was an
unconditional prisoner,
;
if
such a
one was in
his possession
if not,
same circumstances from among other prisoners, and to send him to Philadelphia." He communicated this order
to the British
sult
this
He
also as
tary at
War
"
Keenly wounded
my
enemy
it
themselves, in whose
power alone
it
rests to avert
by executing
on the
guilty."
Hazen,
to select
on as
soon as possible.
The
British captains
were assembled,
284 and
at the
THE KEPUBLIC.
drawing of
lots,
[1782.
the
heir to
was permitted
go into
Guy
Carleton, then in
my
Washington wrote, " calls cisive determination, humanity prompts a tear for the unfortunate offering, and inclines me to say, that I most devoutly wish his life may be saved. This happy event may be attained but it must be effected by the British
duty,*'
;
commander-in-chief."
This letter bears date the fourth of June.
after,
Three days
a British
Hamilton wrote
General,
to
General
"Dear
officer
We are
me
to be executed
by way of
As
ing,
this
appears to
if
and
my
upon the
subject.
is
entirely
is
we
live in,
and
with-
modern history, nor can it fail to be considered in Europe as wanton and unnecessary. It appears that the enemy (from necessity, I grant, but the operation
is
retaliation, the
But
if this
solemn and
must
in
a certain de-
JEt.25.]
HAMILTON.
Our
I
285
affairs
are
now
in a
of the
suddenly depart
all
along borne
The
but
must
;
still
justice
son,
it
if
we wreak
will
I
tions.
am persuaded
will
advanced stage
of
affairs
retaliation
necessary,
let
another
mode be
let
chosen.
thority
the au-
by which
it
is
done be wrapt
to
in obscurity
and
doubt.
Let us endeavor
make
it
fall
in the guilt.
and most
in
among
us,
come forward
person
and be the avowed author of an act at which every humane feeling revolts. Let us at least have as much address as the enemy, and, if we must have victims, appoint
some obscure agents to perform the ceremony, and bear the odium which must always attend even justice itself, when directed by extreme severity. " For my own part, my dear sir, I think a business of The time for it, if this complexion entirely out of season.
there ever
"
was
it
one,
is
past.
But
is
it,
said, the
himself for
286
ity.
THE REPUBLIC.
Carleton
will, in all
[1782.
probability,
do something
like
He
appear to be
is
satisfied
The
steps Carleton
said to
myself
to
you upon
this occasion,
because
know your
if it
liberal'*y
If you are of
my
I
and your influence with the general. opinion, I am sure you will employ it,
late.
I
letter
necessary, but
know how
apt
men
are to be actuated
by
the circumstances which immediately surround them, and to be led into an approbation of measures, which in an-
General
gyll,
is
Knox
replied
"
As
it
this person.
of considerable family,
all
his
importance have
New
York."
of
conclusion
may
be fairly
drawn from a
late letter
Sir Guy Carleton that the court-martial have not found From some conversations which I Lippincott guilty."
have had with the general on the subject, he appears to think, that it is impossible for him to recede from his first
determination
until
;
it
into execution
in vain.
As soon
After
"
this,
may
turn up to procrasti-
farther.
this
My
or any
am
persuaded
and en-
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
287
it
is,
under color of the laws of the different States. Yet will be difficult for the general, circumstanced as he
with his
own
of Con-
him
If
will be happy not to be obliged to have recourse to a measure, the execution of which must give him great
pain."
A
cott
was announced by Carleton to Washington. He " As Sir Guy Carleton, notwithstandLippincott, reprobates the measure acquittal of ing the in unequivocal terms, and has given assurance of prosecuting the inquiry, it has changed the ground I was prowrote to Congress
:
He
new
upon which an individual ought not to decide." No decision being made by Congress, Washington
wrote a private
relieved from
letter to
Duane
pressing earnestly to be
Still
no decision was
given.
Late
in
from Vergennes
Lady
eration.
is
it,
in
your power,
will
to consider
and
have regard to
majesties
;
you
do what
agreeable to their
the danger of
young Asgyll, the tears, the dethem sensibly and they will see
;
"In seeking
threatens him,
I
to deliver
fate
which
am
far
288
victim
;
THE REPUBLIC.
[1782.
entire."
This
letter,
Madison, the next day, proposed instructions to Washington to call on the British
inquisition into the
sue
it
with
all
permit."
They
adequate satisfaction for any act of cruelty or \iolence, committed by the enemy contrary to the laws or usage of
war, and in case such satisfaction were not given, or
delayed, refused or evaded, to cause suitable retaliation
forthwith.
Thus ended
long delayed.
this painful
In the preceding autumn. Congress had recommended to the several States to levy a separate tax to meet the continental requisitions, and had invested the Superintendent of Finance with the power of appointing an officer an idea not improbin each State to receive these taxes
;
letter of
September, 1780,
superintendent."
While engaged
in
the
May
"Mr. Charles
sues, has
is-
informed
me
that
to quit the
life.
He,
at
the
same
time, induced
office
me
to believe that
you
New
York.
The
intention of this
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
to offer
289
letter
office
is
The
duties of the
tions
made by me on
In addition,
be
it
may
be necessary for
be acquainted with.
The amount of
New York
for
you know, three hundred and seventy-three thousand five hundred and ninety-eight dollars.
the current year
as
"I
make no
I
professions of
my
because
but
if I
they are,
my
the
offer
make,
is
Hamilton replied
obliged
tains,
" I
had
this
re-
am much
it
con-
and
upon
the occasion.
'*
My
I
become
and
if
so negative,
that
have no motives
it,
my
services
civil line, I
command.
is
and
am now engaged
Time
is
in
purpose.
myself
ject of
in the
way
The
you
present
of
hundred pounds
will not
for unfortunately, I
am
persuaded,
it
290
thousand pounds
;
THE REPUBLIC.
and on a peace establishment
[1782.
this will
more than doubled. You will perceive, that an engagement of this kind does not correspond with my views, and does not afford a sufficient
not be, for some time to come,
am
and
it
will
be an additional one
I
&c.
the
On
fourth of June,
am much
of. I
own
I
abilities will
but
whole
;
quota of the taxes had not been collected by the State consequently, the object is greater than you supposed, and
the
more
If so,
attention than
I
studies.
should
still
be happy
will leave
the
seventeenth of June
The explanation which you give of your-intention, in your late offer, makes it an object that will compensate fully for the time that it will deduct from my
*
other occupations.
ple, arising
In accepting
it,
can ren-
der
in the
(if it
may
be
radically vicious,
to governlittle
burthensome
ment.
to the people,
and unproductive
As
the matter
now
stands, there
seems to be
vEt. 25.]
HAMILTON.
The whole
291
business
nor do
is
any provision
to authorize
payment
to the officer
you appoint.
only one
This, however,
in
must be made.
There
is
way
which
;
materially useful
to the State.
that
is,
In popular assemblies
If
it
should, at
any
power me
views.
that
I
by you to emhappy to do
your
me
sir,
to effectuate
1
flatter myself,
this,
to you,
suggest
augment
the im-
portance of
" It
is
office,
of primary
moment
to take
my
and on
this consideration I
am
pressing
I will I shall
wait upon
you
in Philadelphia.
In the
mean
and
time,
be happy
attention
to receive
your
instructions,
shall direct
my
more
may
be useful
my
future operations.
containing them in
my
possession,
will
be necessary
your instrucearly in
A
it
is
summoned
may
am
you have
manifested upon
this occasion,
and
shall
only add an
assurance of
my
292
THE REPUBLIC.
On
[1782.
" It gives
me
sin-
You
re-
must
quest you
to exert
your
talents, in
Your former
situation
connexions
men
you a
fine
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
which
to this
arises
from the
When
you
shall super-
war of
must neces-
to our wishes
then,
sir,
posed to
lay,
are necessary
utility
and of
me."
On
a journey to Poughkeepsie,
I
where
1
will
endeavor, by
my
am
think
whatever momentary
change of
they make,
till
the entire
very
little
will be done.
in-
To
effect this,
terest are to
be levelled.
For
my own
part, considering
vEt. 25.]
HAMILTON.
293
mation, 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
critical,
and
I feel
it
the duty of
utmost to sup-
" It
I
entertain of him
who
pre-
the smallest
mo-
my
acceptance of the
and confidence which makes me now sensibly feel the obliging expressions of your letter, fail to have a great
share in influencing
my
future exertions."
On
his
letter to
ment, and requesting the legislature to vest in him the necessary authority stating that it was " a part of his
;
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, and asking his excellency to
impart
his
with a committee of the two houses." Clinton announced his appointment to the legislature,
and a conference was held. This body had been convened in extra session at the express instance of a committee of Congress, to provide
"for a vigorous prosecution of the war."
*
The
session
The
French
fleet
paniola,
by Rodney.
294
THE REPUBLIC.
He
[1782
was opened on
upon the
legislature to de-
nounce attempts of the British government to make separate treaties with the States, and pressed most strenuous
exertions to expel the
enemy from
still
their territory.
The
responded
The impressions made by Hamilton in his private letters, by the numbers of the Continentalist, and by
his
on the mind of
its
New
in the
language of
its last
Among
acts,
was a
their readiness to
comply with any measures to render the Union of these United States more intimate, and as far as the condition of the State would permit, to contribute
their proportion of well established funds, to the end, that
the representative
draw
forth
and employ
resources with
the utmost
vigor."
This emphatic declaration had been preceded by the act granting to Congress a revenue from the customs. It
was followed by an act authorizing a census, by another, declaring that no bank should be established within iHe State, in order to secure exclusive privileges to the Bank of North America, created by Congress, and by a third,
for the levy of a tax chiefly for continental use.
But
before
ilton's
its
great
work
is
effective
it
Union of
the States.
Ham-
arrival,
into
of
the
"
"
iET. 25.]
HAMILTON.
The Senate
at
296
itself into
NATION."
mittee,
once resolved
com-
They
this
They
is
in a peculiar
manner
critical,
and
for
while there
dii-ect
is
an adherence to
now
measures "
:
"
by Confounded
wisdom and sound policy and that after so many violent shocks sustained by the public credit, a failure in this system, for want of the support which the States are able to give, would be productive of evils too pernicious to be
hazarded
"
:
us
That the general state of European affairs calls upon by every motive of honor, good faith, and patriotism, without delay, to unite in some system more effectual, for
producing energy, harmony, and consistency of measures,
than that which
the
common
"
now exists, and more capable of putting cause out of the reach of contingencies." *
radical
is,
That
the
want of
power
ready and
perfect co-operation
their
that
draft.
* This and the preceding resolution are abridged from the original
296
THE REPUBLIC.
[1782.
experience has demonstrated the confederation to be defective in several essential points, particularly in not vest-
ing the
Federal Government
itself,
would
and
make them
fects
that
these de-
ought to be without
ers of
Congress extended, a
payment of debts already incurred, and competent means provided for future credit, and for supplying the current demands of the war " That it appears evidently to this legislature, that the
the
were adopted
for
drawing out
their resources,
would
fall
States, which, if
final
Then came
appears to
but that
it
is
essential to the
common
it
and that
this
purpose to
Legislatures
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
297
These resolutions were immediately sent to the assembly, and were unanimously concurred in on Sunday, the The next day, the governor was twenty-first of July.
requested to transmit them to Congress, and to the executive of
Duane.
The next
may
State and of the United States, and for the more effectual
collection of taxes within the State.
was Schuyler, who, retiring from the canvass, Hamilton was, on the same day, elected a delegate to Congress.* Three days after, the legislature adAt
the head of
it
journed.
" Agreeable to
my
came
to this place,
and had
legislature, in
in
which
your
instructions.
of finance, and by
way
all
the
found every
man
con-
sent
when defined, and conThe quantum of taxes already imposed is so great, as to make it useless to ima bill has, pose any others to a considerable amount
to
the
proper remedy.
in specie,
bank
298
" It
is
THE REPUBLIC.
at present appropriated
[1T82.
to
doubt whether some subsequent arrangement will not take place for a different appropriation. The commander-inchief has applied for a quantity of forage, which the
legislature
it
is
devising the
means of
furnishing,
and
1 fear
will finish
by diverting
I
that purpose.
but as
this
it
is
of indispensable importance to
me
to leave
which
is
at hand,
possible, after I
have
left
it,
contrary ideas
will prevail.
Efforts have
been made
to introduce a speI
which
have strenuously
opposed.
am
not clear
for the
I
how
Should the
its
bill
present form,
it
will
produce
in the treasury
above
such are
bill
mode of
your notes, old continental emissions at one hundred and twenty-eight for one, and a species of certificates issued
by
This
is
now
Both Houses have unanimously passed a set of resolutions, to be transmitted to Congress and the several
States, proposing a
but
am
they never
will
be brought to co-operate
any reaand
Urge what
reforms or exertions,
avails
it
It is in
JEt. 25.]
HAMILTON.
It is
299
founded
on
all
The
legislature
at
my
instance,
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
a committee to devise, in
recess, a
when
effect the
payment
is
money
change
in the plan,
as the exi-
gency of public
seems to be making
some progress.
"
There
is
you a
full
and
just
this State.
;
This
after
my
intended examination
in
that over,
shall lay
myself out
every
way
I
that can
promote
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
adds an influence in
man who,
to
In
my
next
I I
will also
omitted
bill,
letter
from
his friend
Laurens.
He
"
300
THE REPUBLIC.
campaign
[1782.
insipid.
Many
fight
us.
my dear friend
between us, I entreat you not to withdraw the You know the unalterable consolation of your letters.
a distance
Union on
solid
" I received
my
letter
last.
"
Your wishes
gratified.
me
to Congress.
It is
I
My
too
will
not proit is
hope
We
own
to flatter ourselves
peace on
it
our
terms
The making
is
is
in
good hands.
sioners,
It
said,
your father
exchanged
for
made
plenipotentiary powers.
" I fear there
may
be obstacles, but
hope they
may
be surmounted.
"Peace made,
my
dear friend, a
new
scene opens.
The
blessing.
To do
this
we must
mounall
must
be levelled
It
requires
the
virtue
and
all
Quit your
sword,
my
friend, put
on the toga.
Come
to Congress.
We
know each
other's sentiments.
Our views
are the
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
301
make America free, let us hand in hand struggle to make her happy. Remember me to General Greene with all the warmth of
same.
We
have fought
side
by
side to
a sincere attachment.
Yours
for ever."
Soon
Laurens terminated
his career.
and
in a trifling skirmish
on the
Of
all
is
his
numerous and
at his
and
name
dis-
soldier
all
and
To
the en-
and cultivated
irresistible,
intellect,
an endless
which
in
other
offended by
their contrast, in
give richness of
spirit
His intrepid
was
coupled with a
per,
self-distrust, a confiding
weakness of temand
love.
which awakened
To
was
all
While the world saw him graced he was still aspiring to some higher
which
is
an
ideal perfection,
denied to our
warm
conceptions of a mind
fully
302
express
this
THE REPUBLIC.
[1782.
his letter to
inward struggle for superior excellence than Hamilton, as to the commendation of Conlatter's
gress,
and the
In the intercourse of these martial youths, who have been styled " the Knights of the Revolution," there was a deep fondness of friendship, which approached the tenderness of feminine attachment.
his death,
On
the annunciation of
:
Hamilton wrote
to
La
Fayette
"
Poor Lautrifling
I
rens
skirmish in South Carolina. You know how truly him, and will judge how much I regret him."
loved
New York
legislature,
and
his
The
flicting
Double
sets of officers,
with con-
powers and
;
rations
collected in a
medium reduced
and
while a genin
many
inquiries,
an
officer,
whose
office
was an
To overcome
task
;
these difficulties
it
was an arduous,
all
invidious
but he engaged in
with
tience of investigation.
tensive,
*
Though
the evils
and
laid too
From an
Morris,
it
JilT. 25.]
HAMILTON.
total
303
change of system, yet he hoped, by scrutinizing the whole train of abuses, such data might be obtained as would enable the office of finance to apply
means than a
efficient remedies,
and gradually
its
and induce a
radi-
change of policy. During the interval of the appointment and meeting of the committee, he was engaged in extensive correspondences throughout the State
;
in
circulars
to
the
county treasurers,
of collection
;
and expenses
in
amount of expenditures and the quantity of specie, and to promote the circulation and increase the value of the notes of the financier and of the
tractors, to learn the
bank
and
in devising
means
in
to defer
mands on While
pleteness
employed
fulfilling
of the
financier, he
whereof he laments,) as a basis for digesting a new plan of State taxation, which he proposed to
submit to the legislature.
The
much
angry discussion, fixing the quota of each State, had proved a source of great delay and controversy. The valuation of land which it prescribed, was found impracticable,
and Congress had been compelled to adhere to the original system of requisitions, on the basis of the population, as computed in seventeen hundred and seventy-five.
the inaccuracy
of
this
deficiency
estimate.
the
incoi*rectness
of the
To
304
THE REPUBLIC.
[1782.
order to meet the demands of the public, Hamilton framed an elaborate bill, in which, agreeably to a resolution of
Congress of the preceding February, and to the report of the financier, he proposed to abolish the method which
existed, of taxing
and a source of the greatest injustice and inequality, lands, on taxation specific of substituting for it a system
distinguished
by
their character, as
;
meadow
;
or arable
;
on tobacco by the pound on carof various kinds on menial licences on plate riages servants; on houses; and a rate of specific duties on on
salt
by
the bushel
;
imports.
embraces a very minute and systematic scheme to render the assessment and collection easy and secure and with a view to prevent the confusion and
The
bill
neglect which had resulted from the proceeds of the taxes being thrown into a general mass, he suggested the appropriation of
them
to various objects
that
;
upon
land, to
government
salt, license,
on carriages, to
supplementary funds
the
and tobacco
to
tax,
which seems
have been
connected with the incorporation of a bank, of which a portion of the income was to be secured to that office.
The
all
others, to
form an
aggregate fund for contingencies, to supply the Federal A plan of a lottery was also at this time detreasury.
by him, containing many ingenious suggestions, and evincing singular care to prevent frauds, from which a
vised
considerable
finances
;
sum was hoped to be derived in aid of the mode of taxation proposed by a committee
;
of Congress in seventeen hundred and eighty but which the enlightened sentiment of the present age has ceased
to approve.
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
license as
305
in July, he,
Having obtained a
his legal studies, in
an attorney
bar as a counsellor,
Supreme Court.
ject,
letter to his
Meade, of the
this sub-
views on
his
domestic
feelings
"
first
of
much
my dear Meade, for your letter of the month, which you will perceive has travelled faster than has been usual with our letters. Our
thank you,
this
in fact
;
his
punctuality
may
of a
Mine
it
for
you
is
built
on the
it,
and
that
it
is
reciprocal,
and
is
the
more firmly
Experience
is
fixed, be-
a continrace,
comment on
human
I
and
be
we
find,
to
when
not in
my power
my
"
You reproach me
little
our
stranger.
When
him
wrote
last, I
was not
suffiI
to give
you
his character.
may now
do
it
when
she sees
him, will not consult you about the choice, or will only
in respect to the rules of
fine
decorum.
He
is
truly a
young gentleman, the most agreeable in his conversation and manners of any I ever knew, nor less remarkable for his intelligence and sweetness of temper. Vol. II. 20
very
306
THE REPUBLIC.
are not to imagine,
that
[1Y82.
You
by
is
my
beginning with
in
his
mental
It
is
qualificatidns,
he
defective
is
personal.
;
handsome his features are good, his eye is not only sprightly and expressive, but His attitude, in sitting, is, by conit is full of benignity. noisseurs, esteemed graceful, and he has a method of
agreed, on
all
hands, that he
waving
stands,
his
orator.
He
have
his legs
it
not
all
is is
feared he
may never
If he has
excel as
much
in dancing,
which
probably
which he
will not
be a model.
any
fault in
He
has
now passed his seventh month. " I am glad to find your prospect
I
proaches.
am
the happiness
I
wish
Mrs.
qiiarr4. in
As
to myself, I shall
down
New
York, when
it
we
No man
I
do,
if I
though no
man would
sacrifice less to
than myself,
I
have
lately
by October
" I
some
public avocations
may
have been
of
this
by
the
legislature
member
I
vember.
shall
endeavor to do
the
good
can.
" Suffer
Betsey and
me
Mrs.
.Et. 25.]
HAMILTON.
She has a
sisterly affection
307
for you.
Meade.
spects, if
My
re-
you
please, to
God
bless you."
to Morris,
The committee of the legislature, of which he speaks met on the fifteenth of September, and not-
to their meeting,
I
he says, "
am
at a loss to
know whether
ought to press
the establishment of
less I
permanent funds or
not,
though unappre-
my own
I
shall
dwell
upon
this article."
On
lature
" In
my
last
legis-
"In
of
my
efforts,
They
by the impresshall
sions of the moment, when the legislature meet. " The points agreed upon are these that there
:
much on
The great
suffer
would not
or to a tax
them
to listen to
an estimated valuation,
of
by
late report to
all
tariff
much on
the
pound.
"That
clocks,
there
shall
be a specific
tax
on carriages,
in the
:
That money
That
308
houses in
all
THE EEPUBLIC.
towns
:
[1782.
shall
That there
be a poll tax on
all
men from
fifteen
upwards
all
collection
subordinate expenses.
I
Among
pressed
but
all
that could
in this article was a license on taverns. The committee were pretty generally of opinion, that the system of funding, for payment of old debts, and for procuring farther credit was wise and indispensable but a
be carried
"
majority thought
tribute in this
"
it
would be unwise
alone.
in
way
the State
was
able to
pay
those
who went
farthest did
fifty
were
United States."
correspondence continued
An
interesting
between
common
cur-
of an address of the public creditors in Albany to those of the whole United States, as having originated with himself,
The suspension of
duced great
the
distress
and containing ideas which ought to prevail. interest on the loan office
certifi-
greater
number of whom
vened
rehef.
in that city,
On
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
309
upon the measures of Congress by the co-operation of the creditors in other States, and with this view a meeting was held at Albany, where General Schuyler
ercised
presided, at
favorite measure,
ernment.
"
The
appellation
to address
which we wish
efforts
of those
who
which the
mand.
of
Whatever
distinctions
may
whatever
agree,
may
stance they
justice
all
and plighted
faith
"
on France,
upon
the
first
necessary to
and
to
own
security.
They
will
not dwell
310
THE 'REPUBLIC.
to,
[1782.
weight
is
most oppressively
by those whose
zeal in
conspicuous
their
its,
who
in times
common
by voluntary deposin
in
others of a large
;
many
feel
affluence to indigence,
from
meritorious,
fate
;
They cannot but add, that there are others, not less who have perhaps experienced even a worse those who, having made subsequent loans, have long
payment of interest cease, and those who, when the distresses of the army have had no resource but
since seen the
in
with the
suf-
own
families,
without
any compensation since, besides the consciousness of having been the benefactors of their country.
"
We
that levity or
faith,
ments of the public engagements, which have too often happened. We have been sensible of the necessity whicii but we apprehend it has, in some cases, produced them
;
to
have
resulted, not
ability or
means,
And we
it
be an unavoidable sacrifice to the urgent calls of particular conjunctures, followed by effectual endeavors to prevent a
continuance or return of the same necessity, or to make
satisfaction in
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON,
311
"
Few
to
which the
to
momentary necessities but the example of all wise and happy ones, combine with reason and justice to
bend
establish this truth, that
no time ought to be
lost in pro-
sufferers.
citizen of the
its
calamity directly or in
conse-
general,) the
same policy has been too long dethe only expedient in our
still
this
country
power
unattempted.
it
We need
to
no arguments
these States,
at
to
convince
us, that
is
pay
off
demands of
the war,
and
it
it,
for the
support of
fest as
civil
government.
We
even think
as mani-
make
that our
abilities fall
who
know
in
and
The quota of
which we are
to consider as the
;
sum
and those
ac-
customed
vinced that to
make
this
sum within
attended to the publications of the receipts on the continental account, will easily answer the question for themselves.
we
312
"
THE REPUBLIC.
Admit
[1782.
every State, and that more judgment and of laying them, more energy and manner equality in the economy in the collection, would be more productive to
tion in ahnost
the revenue,
and
less
burthensome
to the people,
still
we
in
any propor-
" It
is
balance, must be procured upon credit nor is it less plain, that this must chiefly be from individuals at home and
abroad.
will
We
allies,
make
us governmental loans, in
this assurance,
any proportion
to our wants,
and without
we might have
inferred it, from a consideration of the immense land and naval establishments which they are obliged to support in the prosecution of the war, on their
own
part.
" It
public,
the
may be asked, if such are the necessities of the how are they to spare any part of their funds for payment of old debts ? The answer is easy, those
necessities
and there
is
only one
way
to effect
the
payment of the
" It cannot
by
substantial funds,
permanently
coun-
in this
creditors.
If,
without
who have
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
313
and
this
by une;
nor
to a
insist.
proof of
In
this,
short of the
life,
measure on which we
principles,
common
less
no credit
would be given to any man who and the same rule is not
nations.
" If individuals
among
necessary confidence,
foreigners.
it were chimerical to expect it from Such of them as, having been already ad-
would have
"
little
encouragement
to
adventure farther.
No
Not
it
folly
to abandon an indispen-
was
being ended
assur-
this irresistible
justice,
and
its
inseparable compan-
of a
We
A moderate
we
sum would be
sufficient.
It is
an ex-
pedient which
bear them.
we need
and the
share of the future burthen, which will, of course, diminish the contributions of others.
We
might expatiate on
314
THE REPUBLIC.
tendency
in that
[1782.
on
its
way
and commerce, now clogged by the want of an adequate medium, would derive new motion and vivacity
from the increase of that medium, by rendering the public
securities a valuable
negotiable property.
We
have
What
will
if
a disre-
We
indeed should be
might come
barked,
It is true,
those
who can answer when his turn who are not already emcalls
may
own
ruin, but
of
necessity, enforced
by
legislative coercions
Should
we
want of
subsistence,
feel the
this
State again
done
of recompense
What,
it
in
employed
to
take
from
us,
?
made
"
to render satisfaction
more peculiar
which depends
on virtue
in
all,
to justice in those to
whom
nicious
entrusted.
con-
and we
flatter ourselves,
we never
shall
suffer
emerging into
political existence."
.Et. 25.]
HAMILTOl^.
315
The
ment, may, perhaps, be questioned but, when it is remembered that the fate of the American Union depended on the fulfihnent of its engagements with what difficulty
;
its
discordant
to co-operate
and
which can throw light on the state of public opinion of every obstacle which was encountered and of every ef;
fort
becomes
essential in enabling us
his services.
and extent of
There
interest.
is
Amidst the glare of war, the civil sufferers of and the individthe revolution have been little regarded uals who nerved the arm of the country with their
;
wealth
who parted Avith the fruits of their who were reduced from affluence to indigence
; ;
industry
;
who had
none of the quickening incentives of ambition to sustain them whose intelligence disclosed to them all the hazards
they incurred
;
self-denying patriotism,
to
be stigmatized.
son with
all
They
their unrequited
;
wrongs
pledges
is
in the
midst of them
it
was reserved
to his
hand
Of
by him
ex-
it
gives of the
its
316
THE EEPUBLIC.
From
this letter
[1782.
alone
may
be seen
;
how
early ripened
were
may
ties,
be formed by analogy of the extraordinary difficullabors and capacity of Robert Morris, whose lumin-
ous views of the interests of the country, are only less remarkable than the energy, firmness, and resource, with
which he seemed
ing fortunes.
to
have borne on
CHAPTER XXX.
most to advance those fortunes, and to place them on a solid basis, now engrossed Hamilton's thoughts. With
How
the
his
to
same satisfaction that is seen in the annunciation to late companions in Washington's staff, of his election Congress, he wrote to Gen. Greene, on the 12th of
:
an age since
ceived a line
have either written to you, or refrom you yet I persuade myself you have
I
;
my
all
affectionate attach-
ment, and
warm
participation in
that place in
I
rivals
your
You
will
to
have been appointed a member of Congress. I expect go to Philadelphia in the ensuing month, where I shall
be happy to correspond with you with our ancient confidence and I shall entreat you not to confine your obsei;
to
take in the
whole
am
me and
to the public.
news we have
just
318
Laurens.
THE REPUBLIC.
His career of virtue
is
[1782.
at
an end.
How
excel!
strangely are
human
affairs
conducted, that so
many
fate
more happy
has
left
The
world
of a
man who
America of a citizen whose heart realized that patriotism of which others only talk. I shall feel the loss
behind, and
of a friend
West
mother, he adds,
letter to
Indies,
Mr. Lavine,
ac-
a half-brother of mine
Carolina.
who
Captain Roberts,
I shall
to
have
my
this
am
Knox wrote
no
justice
seems to be done
in the dealing of
and perplexed,
heirs." *
fear
little
will
come out of
for
any of the
office
of Continental
Receiver.
this office,
in
drawing
was
to
had convinced him that little be derived from domestic supplies. Yet how
is
scarcely credible.
demand made by Congress upon the States, from the beginning of the war to the 1st of March, eighty, was little more than five millions of dollars and this demand had not been complied with.f
The
total
JEt.25.]
HAMILTON.
that additional aid from
319
It
was obvious
France was
The
capture of Cornwallis had induced her late in the preceding year to grant a
new
covery of
nounced.
New York
and Charleston.
have influence.
:
The Viscount de Noailles had written to him "Though I was not born in a free country, my dear
Colonel,
I shall
you are
whom
Once
all
the nations of
same
rights.
this
her eyes with pleasure upon another world, and will behold without envy a people which only owes
to
its its
happiness
own
courage."
replied, " I
Hamilton
left
was chagrined
to find, that
you
Though
should
be happy
cease to
by a removal of
so, I
continues to be
to
hope you
motives
Wherever you
are,
you
I
will
have
be
me
wish America
it
may
your destination.
would willingly do
;
in
France, as
remote.
you
I
invite
me
to
do
this is
can
conveniently go abroad.
There
is
no country
have a
I I
am
persuaded would
should be happy to
renew and improve the valuable acquaintances from thence which this war has given me an opportunity of
320
;
THE REPUBLIC.
[1782.
making and though I would not flatter myself with deriving any advantage from it, I am persuaded it is there I should meet with the greatest number of those you describe,
who, &c.
me
my
visit.
" In the
mean
much
the gainer
offer
by a communication with you, not gladly to embrace the you so politely make for writing to each other. " The period since you left us has been too barren of
events to enable
me
to impart
attention.
The enemy
Many
is
all
the
fleet
of
;
away
my
part, I
My
politics
seats
and procure
war
this is the
affairs,
;
renew their attack on our most vulnerable side nor would they relinquish objects that would be so useful to them, should the worst happen in a final negotiation. Clinton, it is said, is cutting a canal across New York island, through the low ground about a mile and a half
from the
if
city.
but
it
we have
will not
be an insurmountable one.
J5t. 25.]
HAMILTON.
321
is
To you who
on
effectual succors
from France.
am
shall
in you.
La
if
Fayette,
we we
know,
"
he can.
our internal
in
situation since
you
left
us.
The
capital successes
we
re-
But
in
one
spect
we
are in a
mending way.
Our
in
some measure
moneyed men.
"
but he
is
urging the
;
among
ourselves
and
it is
to
The
institu-
bank has been very serviceable to him. The commercial interest, finding great advantages in it, and
tion of a
anticipating
much
greater,
is
disposed to promote
the
plan
and nothing
but
wanting to make
it
solid utility.
By
is
This will be a
be
"
Upon
war continues
an-
VoL.
IL 21
322
other year,
it
THE REPUBLIC.
will
[1782.
again recur to the generosity of France for pecuniary The plans of the financier cannot be so maassistance. tured as to enable us by any possibility to dispense -with
this
want of support, we must distress which had hke to have proved fatal to us, and out of which we are The cure in a relapse would be infislowly emerging.
;
and
if
he should
fail
for
and
nitely
more
difficult
than ever.
have given you an uninteresting but a faithful sketch of our situation. You may expect from time to time to receive from me the progress of our affairs, and I
I
"
know you
will
overpay me."
La
" I
Fayette,
who married
a sister of
De
Noailles,
had
:
Hamilton wrote
his friend
my
neigh-
am now
soon be a grave
member
of Congress.
in public
am
going to
I
life,
and then
familias.
You
to
see
the disposition I
am
all
in.
You
life
it.
;
are
condemned
run the
race of ambition
career,
your
and dare
to leave
It is
your army
is
taken from
That was an
essential
point cVapimi.
The money was the primum mobile of our finances, which must now lose the little activity lateOur trade is prodigiously cramped. ly given them. These States are in no humor for continuing exertions. If the war lasts, it must be carried on by external succors. I make no apology for the inertness of the coun-
^T.
try.
25.]
HAMILTON.
detest
it
;
323
but since
it
exists, I
am
:
sorry to see
La
silent
"
However
his
I
to be, I will
nevertheless remind
would
like
you
to
If
something
in the
is
said to
you
I
there, I wish
answer."
You have
There
I
is
shall
thing
imagine other
you
will
Our army is now in excellent The temper we are in respecting the see from public acts. There never was
Is there
any
You know the warmth and sincerity of my attachment. Command me." The friendships formed between gallant men in arms are among the beautiful compensations of war. Though widely different in character, La Fayette appreciated Hamand Hamilton ever
felt
ilton,
La Fayette by
try.
coun-
The conviction
by
its
internal credit.
The domesall
for.
its
Of the
first
the
accruing interest
fell
due
at this time,
and was
324
THE REPUBLIC.
The two
[1782.
Mas-
sachusetts
was
in vain
her obligations.
Her
taxation
by import and
excise.
"
The
States
here,"
Greene writes from Carolina, " have been so tardy as to regard representations little more than an idle dream, or
an Eastern
tale."
"My
blasted
there
by
What powers
is
were
substi-
Much
means
left
of doing
little."
On
the fourth of
the letter to
La
Though among
and Hanson, Izard and Middleton, with the exception of Boudinot, Madison, and Edmund Randolph, there were
no names conspicuous
people.
in the after history of the
American
The executive departments, as Hamilton anticipated when be suggested them, were introducing system and economy into the administration and thus the annual
;
mdividual
to
But there was not in the national legislature a single who combined the qualities necessary to give the public councils the impulse, the direction, and the
much
de-
manded.
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
325
intendent of Finance is seen exhorting the adoption of measures suited to the exigencies of the period, but no answering voice is heard from Congress.
The
creation of a currency
the
utility
urged by
The early enthusiasm of the nation had passed away. The authority of government had not followed all was
:
States
Pledges to fulfil it might have been enforced. might have been given. The people might have been appealed
to,
to the
guage
of truth.
The incorporation of a bank, opposed by Madison from scruples as to its constitutionality, was the only
measure of
relief adopted.
While waiting
grant of authority to collect an impost, endeavors were made to induce a cession of the unappropriated lands to
the
common
The
treasury.
Assuming
come
enlist.
was
offered,
the second year of the war, as an inducement to Averse to this measure, Maryland suggested the
substitute of a
the suggestion
was not
approved.
Two
As her
territori-al
claims
were
326
regarded with
THE REPUBLIC.
much
[1782.
New
tion of
chartered
belong to Congress
United States.
articles, instruct-
was
United
New
York, though
this propi-
example
discus-
recommended a
liberal sur-
They soon
common
benefit,
and formed
into
become members of
any
the
Union.
They
by any
ceded
territory, should
be reimbursed.
she
still
affirmed
her
ceded to them.
Virginia adhered to her original views.
policy
the
narrow
Avilh
temporary
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
327
permanent
interests to
their
speculative
The
pared to
denominated
to be preces-
aggressions
resist.
made a formal
which Con-
By
was
required.
was proposed
to
limits
beyond
which Congress would not extend their guarantee to the particular States, to ascertain what territory belonged to
the United States, and to establish a plan for the disposal
of
it
The
dolph, protested.
They refused to give evidence of her York had done stated that Congress had title, as New " liberal surrender," and to make her recommended a
acts of cession the basis of a discussion of her rights, " was in direct contravention of that recommendation." *
"You are not mistaken in your apprehenAn agrarian law is as much coveted by the
it
members
was by the
indigent citizens of
Rome.
We
have made every opposition and remonstrance to the conduct of the com-
When
a report
little
is
made, we
renew our
efforts
upon more
eligible ground,
but with
solely
hope of ar-
resting
on the inclination
of Congress." State
We
may know
Nov. 1781.
has,
and the enemies and calumnies which these very claims form against her,
is
she
perhaps under the strongest obligation of any State in the Union to pre-
328
THE KEPUBLIC.
[1782.
Notwithstanding her pertinacity, the utihty of the measure was too obvious to permit its being abandoned, and late in this congressional year a report was made to
Congress, again recommending cessions of these lands as
" an important fund for the
discharge of the
national
debt."
On
was
lost
graphical division.
The
States
north of the
by a geoPotomac
On
a motion to
amend them
so
territorial
Maryland proposed to insert the word " States." The proposicollisions, all
expecdis-
tation of relief
appointed.
The
and Connecticut, and between New York and the inhabitants of the New Hampshire grants, now comprised
within Vermont, were also unadjusted.
The
contentions
produced by these controversies extended their influence to other members of the confederacy, and as the decision
would
occupied a large
made
for a requisition to
pay the
interest
adoption
is,
perhaps, of
all,
i.,
in the
April, 1782.
Madison's
Papers, vol.
* Ayes
Bland
and Izard.
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
to pass a resolution
329
suspending the pay-
were compelled
ment of
The
with
last closed
fit
for war.
The community presented in its private relations a not less disheartening scene. The waste of war had produced an increased demand for the products of agriculture,
which
during
in
;
eign market
had,
some measure supplied the want of a forand the expenditures of the government
earlier
its
periods, created
fulness
and
had
rapidity of circulation
perity.
hance
value.
was
disturbed,
and
it
seemed
fatal,
To
try,
from vitiated unfunded paper emissions, from national bankruptcy, were added the pernicious consequences of
legislative
proscription.
It
was
after a
comprehensive
those
evils that
Hamilton remarked,
The more
I see, the
who
CHAPTER XXXI.
The war
of the Revolution, as a scene of military move-
There empire
is
seen sub-
verting empire
sceptre
still
holds dominion.
Allegiance
is
the
tie.
war of opinion as the beginning of that great experiment in modern times, whether men are capable of
It is as
self-government
in
America assumes
its
immeasurable importance.
When
versy,
the pressure of
arms was
man
the
On
the
the
artificial
exist-
ences, embodying,
distinctions
the other
Of
the
former, Washington
and Hamilton
/Et. 25.]
HAMILTON.
representatives
331
latter,
were
nents.
the
of
the
their
oppo-
In
this
view, the
session of
commenced was of
circumstances
interest
great importance.
to
combined
impart to
it
the
deepest
the
period at w^hich
the elder
ment of many of
younger men, whose views had not been developed, and the importance of the topics upon which they were called
to act.
The
public
principal of these
credit
were
the
restoration of the
by
the reduction
of the expenditures of
the confederacy,
of a peace establishment
Of
the proceedings
may
preserved relating to
much
the
332
career,
history.
THE REPUBLIC.
and
[1782.
American
The
sey,
federal legislature
was organized by
the election
New
Jer-
made many
confidence.
The
greatest
of these, With-
erspoon, Clymer, Elsworth, McKean, Floyd, and Clark, had been delegates in seventeen hundred and seventysix.
The
acquired
first,
celebrity
from
the
powerful
talent
often
evinced in polemical controversy, had received a finished education, and was chiefly distinguished for that penetrating shrewdness
which mark
birth.
Philadelphia.
His
known
probity had given him a strong hold on the confidence of His eminent firmness had recommended him that city. to the convention of Pennsylvania as a delegate to Congress,
when Dickinson
name
is
and
At a
Penn-
by Wilson, a lawyer of a
Randolph having retired, was succeeded by Colonel Bland, who had served with reputation in the army, was a man of comprehensive and liberal views, and of a probity unblemished, unsuspected, and unsuspicious. With him were associated Jones and Lee, Mercer and
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
333
Madison, composing the delegation from Virginia. Tlie intimate connection of the latter with the incidents of
this narrative, places
him
John Rutledge, regarded by South Carolina as the great pillar of the Revolution in that State, had long presided over her councils, and brought into this assembly
all
among
whom
Connecticut boasts.
He had
early ac-
quired
much
prudence.
his
own
intel;
lect,
but
when an
by
the union of
tri-
he rarely failed to
umph
With
associated.
To
which he was
no individual could have been placed in more As the youthful champion of auspicious circumstances.
destined,
all
damental
of
civil
liberty.
Mingling with
intimately into
all
their sympathies,
and value.
In the commission which he held during the campaign
334
THE RErUBLIC.
[1782.
army
impor-
witnessed
all
confidence, of the
American character.
aid
As
his
the
confidential
friend,
of the commander-in-chief,
illustrious
scale.
He
all
as from an eminence,
its
survey
it
in all
orama.
Intimate with
all
and
fears,
him
were
resolved, but
was
in their con-
stant administration.
Hence, each day he was called to morrow, and each hour learned some lesson of practical wisdom. Plans and results in their instrucHis tive march passed before him in rapid succession.
think for the
salient genius
was forever
in motion,
the
aid to their
mutual
infantile
dependence.
It left
him
from
all
which
infect
and are
for
structed
the
by nothing
artificial
common
cause of liberty, he
that he
The
States were
in
He
thoughts and
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
and,
as
335
entity
great,
he
hoped, enduring
the
whole
was
to
forward
this
many one
councils
;
and while his best efforts were exerted to meet present exigencies, the mode in which he met them,
shows that he was ever intent upon the sublime idea of
securing to them the blessings of liberty in the establishment,
by themselves, of a balanced
constitution of
government.
Of
and
commanding and
now
be attempted.
here to observe
how
deeply
his
And
those
who remark
in these
requirements of
fulfil
how
what
living-
he urged, he enforced, he
implored, with
the
Of
eral,
was
held, his
recom-
mendation to the important commission of Adjutant-gencontinuing his intimate relations with "Washington,
next
to
the
station of
highest
and widest
influences, are
marked evidences.
Not
336
Affairs.*
THE REPUBLIC.
La
Fayette recently gave
still
[1782.
stronger proof of
his confidence.
He
La
Luzerne,
that
yet
Minister of
France
Philadelphia,
urging
Hamilton might be sent envoy to London to conclude a " I advise you to take a gentleman who has no peace.
connection with the great
men
in
England.
hope you may send him. He knows the British councils." daughter soon General Schuyler wrote the Participate afresh gress met
I
about.
better than
his
after
Con-
"
in
satisfaction I ex-
made with my
beloved Hamilton.
site
He
I
affords
me
for expression.
from those
are capable of distinguishing between real and pretended merit. He is considered, as he certainly is, the
who
ornament of
attended
is
his
it
the
one of the great council of these States." f Although the greater number of the members of Con-
gress had assembled at the opening of the session on the fourth of November,^ yet, with the exception of the dis-
* " Dr. Arthur Lee, Lovell, and young Hamilton, are in nomination for the Your friend Samuel Adams has left this place, much foreign correspondence.
displeased,
his
and in a temper to awaken the jealousies, if not the resentments, of countrymen and constituents."John Armstrong to Gen. Armstrong,
Philadelphia,
May
10th,
178L
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
337
versy between New York and Vermont, no topic of permanent interest occupied their deliberations until after the
arrival of Hamilton,
who
of that month.
in
view an
effi-
temporary
chairman of the
money
for the
any
whose
situation he de-
some discrimination
in their favor,)
it
lest, in
the
em-
whose
discretion they
were
referred.
had been
magnitude.
laid
late in the
citizens
payment of
cates.
them by the
and of
this
suspension
to their citizens
Vol. II. 22
338
THE REPUBLIC.
;
[1782.
interest
on
all
discharged.
These views were again enforced upon conextent of the contributions of the confederto a requisition for eight millions
The whole
of
dollars,
had yielded
less
than a million
with
To
state
satisfy the
demands of
yet
how
happy
bered
influences
among
its
claimants
and with an unsettled policy, which nummany of those who had most
moment.
To assuage
fulfil
its
was a congrowing
while congress
showed
their inability to
was a course
dictated
by
integrity
and
policy.
With this view, Hamilton, on the fourth of December, moved the appointment of a committee of conference with
her legislature.
The demands of Pennsylvania had assumed a serious character. The alternative was presented to congress, either to make a substantial provision for her claims, or, without the power of coercion, to behold her appropriating all her own resources to discharge the debts due by
the confederation to her
own
citizens.
November
12.
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
339
more cogent motives now arose to prompt effiThe progress of the negotiations had induced a general expectation of peace, which was confirmed by the movement of the French auxiliaries
But
still
to Boston, to
embark
for the
West
Indies.
As the
army became
a topic of universal
to this event
of more
knowledge
of
the sacrifices
But
many with
rans
families
saw
in their
couraged to continue
in the service,
and
to
which they
Influenced
by a
murmurs
increased, and in
upon
this
di-
sum equal
December
6.
340
THE REPUBLIC.
[1782.
and
to
point
out
the
embarrassments which
states of the moneys by congress, " assuring them that they were determined to make the fullest justice to the public creditors an
resulted
required
Rhode
to carry
it
immediately into
effect,*
its col-
The deputation
to
Rhode
Island
was appointed,
its
dele-
to the
governor of that
state.f
Congress are equally affected and alarmed by the informeeting have refused their concurrence
duty on imports.
in establishing a
They
consider this
thje
war,
and regard
to the
common
safety,
compel them
with
it
;
to
renew
their efforts to
engage a compliance
to send-a
and
in this
members
to
your
state, as ex-
and
flat-
Convinced by
Rhode
it
December
10.
t December 11.
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
341
They
and the extreme disproportion between the public and the demands of the public
service, are so
supplies
many
recommended by
any
congress.
They
feel
be more
and
if this is refused,
they anthis
with
be attributed to them.
"
is
loans abroad.
The last accounts on the subject were not flattering and when intelligence shall arrive in Europe, that the state of Rhode Island has disagreed to the only fund which has yet
;
is
it
will
fatal influence
upon
Deprived of
this resource,
our
affairs
must
in
all
probastates
dangerous
crisis,
and these
difficult
may
gentlemen
whom
A
to
similar appeal
which formal objections were interposed. The next day the delegates from that state
342
THE REPUBLIC.
its
[1782.
lower house.
This
recommendation of congress
had been unanimously rejected, and gave the grounds of Upon the basis of this procedure, the that rejection.
Rhode
Island delegates
it,
moved
a deputation to
should be rescinded.
At
the instance
;
and four
letter.
This paper
which the policy of a national revenue is discussed in the spirit of a statesman, and will be perused with deep interest, as an exposition of the views Hamilton had long entertained on some of the great questions upon
document
in
called to act.
The
objections of
Rhode
Island
were answered
its
in suc-
cession.*
The
first
of these alleged
inequality,
It
as
states."
was
on the duty
merchant.
advance by the
An
overstocked
market,
;
and competition
but in the general
among
ates.
demand
Every
class
its
share of the
is
regulated
by
its
comparative wealth.
of
this
served, "
mode
of revenue
that
it
preserves a just
frugality,
measure to the
abilities
of individuals, promotes
and taxes extravagance." The same reasoning applies to the intercourse between two states either will only feel
;
* 4
J.
C. 198.
^T.25.]
HAMILTON.
its
343
The
not in a sufficient degree to justify an objection on the But " overnice and mipart of the non-importing states.
nute calculations in matters of this nature, are inconsistent with national measures ; and, in the imperfect state of hu-
man
it, is
affairs,
would stagnate
is
all
ment.
Absolute equality
pursuing a shadow
not to be attained
to
aim
at
;
and
in the event,
if,
we
mark, than
we were
content to ap-
proach
it
with moderation."
The second objection, " that the impost would introduce into the states officers unknown and unaccountable to them, and was thus contrary to the constitution of the state," was
replied to at length.
" It
is
the constitution of
the precise
to define
all
and
fix
officers to
be
any new
political institu-
The
legislature
power of appointing
constitution
;
officers,
known
to the
and
this
power
make
the appointments in
may
;
require
it.
of
this
The depower
all
was
illegal
and unconstitutional.
Island would perhaps
"
The
doctrine advanced
by Rhode
officers
appointment of no internal
that
whatever
a position
would defeat
all
344
and
all
THE REPUBLIC.
the purposes of the union.
[1782.
The
truth
is,
that
no
foederal constitution
in, itself;
all
such
'
civil officers as
may
be
affairs
of the United
is,
government confine
to
appointments to
such as
it is
empowered
make by
unless
words of exclusion in the constitution of a state, there can be no reason to doubt that it is within the compass of legislative discretion to commuThe propriety of doing it upon the nicate that authority.
present occasion
"
is
a measure of necessity.
Re-
public wants.
loans.
The
Our
powers on whose
indivir
friendship
necessities.
we
The next
to
borrow from
duals.
reasons of state.
peal.
we must
ap-
To
conciliate this,
we must
proper compensation for what they lend, but we must give must pledge an ascersecurity for the performance.
We
its
nature, general
will.
and
at the disposal
of a single
There
can be
revisal
little
confidence in a security
must, once
states,
for
all,
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
'Tis
345
by such
whose reputations and governments are erected on the foundation of ages, are enabled to obtain a solid and extensive credit.
Would
?
it
be reasonable
in us to
hope for
among
in
the nations
Is
it
money
to a people
we
can give
?"
striking,
he observed
was with
;
these views
congress deterfnined on a
general fund
been remarked, as an
depend on a
single will.
This will
for
it
evident
duty
is
agreed upon,
ineffectual
it
may
in a
by an
mode of levyinterest in a
The United
States have a
common
;
power of making it where the common. Without this, it might in reality opeobjection was, " That
collect
by granting
the
to congress
moneys from
commerce of
these
346
;
THE REPUBLIC.
is
[1782,
this objection to
be
true,
still
there
fact.
" First
The fund
it is
proposed
is
sufficiently definite as to
time, because
and
to
as remote
from
at
faithless neglect
of proTheir
little
fulfil
it
in a
ceases with
"
it.
The
resolution
it
recommending
object of
and
interest
of the United
Secondly
The
is
fixed,
and
it is
not at
it.
Though
of the
rate,
it
cannot be pro-
By
quantum of revenue
requisite for
When
this is
mode of raising. No pay the sum demanded, confederation and when the
;
money comes
is
the
This pro-
which
it
would be an
its fullest
empty
form.)
comprehends
in
it
the principle in
J5t. 25.]
HAMILTON.
which the objection under consideration
;
347
treats as
latitude,
to wit, an
power of prescribing
the quantity of
it
money
to
when
raised.
If
it
states, individually,
having the
col-
lection in their
own
hands,
may
to judge.
Such a
;
not of right
a requisition
made on
might
"
at
any time
responsibility
which
exists
with
re-
money
furnished in the
The
truth
and
the security
in
and
it
is
The government
necessary to
means
By weak-
ening
its
may be
rendered incapable of
of the
"
state.
The measure
is
within the
are
Congress by that spirit of the confederation. empowered to borrow money for the use of the United States, and, by implication, to concert the means necessary
to accomplish the end.
But without
insisting
on
this ar-
gument,
if the
made proper
it
provi-
will
be at
all
times
348
THE REPUBLIC.
their proposals are submitted to the
[1782.
and
when
unanimous con-
Such a consent is the basis ing the bounds of their trust. and sanction of the confederation, which expressly, in the
thirteenth article,
empowers congress
to agree to
and pre-
The remarks
There
still
The United
Europe and
which
their faith
is
pledged.
The
grees
interest annually,
justice,
ought to be provided.
the deepest
meritorious
who,
in the
of the war,
indeli-
ble disgrace.
"
An
rious.
it
would not
but with
payment of
many more
the use
it
;
of the principal
since
it is
itself,
but
next expedient
of
it
negotiable.
this
debt,
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
the national credit
basis."
349
wants
after
on a secure
The ehgibiUty of
principal
this
"The
all
vancement of commerce,
to
promote exports
im-
way
of prohibition or by
by
means
their sale
and consumption
at foreign markets,
this
are
injurious.
operation,
for the same reasons, taxes on possessions and the articles of our own growth and manufacture, whether in the form of a land tax, excise, or any other, are more hurtful to trade
than import duties.
But
to
it
was not
to
all
ex-
The
first
instance
a a
judicious distribution to
first
is
principle in taxation."
The
"
There
is
a happy
confidence
in
which
the health
is
and prosperity
:
Either extreme
a dangerous vice
to arrogate
a temptation to
men
;
in
power
more
among
the people,
opposite temper.
any government
its
power.
The conduct of
the
war
is
intrusted to congress,
and the
350
tent
trust.
THE REPUBLIC.
means
at their
[1782.
command
full
all
a collective view of
they
see this
partially
count to be frustrated
day increasing
army growing
clamoring
more
for justice
both,
irritated
by
enemies encouraged to protract the war the zeal of our friends depressed by an appearance of remissness and want
congress
mercy
of events."
Resolutions were
first
appended
ing FUND.*
On
Island
was
While
these efforts
* Dec. 16th.
Whereas
it is
and
to the preservation of
pubhc
credit, that
whenever a nation
afFairs to
paying the annual value or interest of the same, but for discharging the
principal within a reasonable period,
by which a nation may avoid the evils Therefore resolved. That whenever
funding the debt already contracted, or for procuring further loans for paying the infor the support of the war, shall exceed the sum requisite these states may owe terest of the whole amount of the national debt whicli
at the termination of the present war, the surplus of
such grants
siiall
form
payment of the principal a sinking fund, to be inviolably appropriated to the other purpose. of the said debt, and shall on no account be diverted to any
^T.
in a
25.]
HAMILTON.
false
351
want of
funds, but
from
After some
Island,
quiry,
Howell, a
avowed
the
opinion of congress, which was entered upon the journal. Aware of the importance of an official declaration of its
falsity,
Hamilton offered a
resolution,
by
on its journals an entry of a derogatory to the dignity highly Howell motion of Mr.
of the confederation, admitted
States, that a
committee should
it.
They
Rhode
Island.
to that state,
shows Hamilton's
purpose to endeavour to establish an adequate and comprehensive system of finance. This would have provided for
the state emissions,
and
com-
mon
defence.
An
insufficient.
It
was
of their finances,
further resolved,
be liquidated, each state be annually furnished with the amount thereof, and
of the interest thereon
;
and
and
That the
faith of the
United States
if
any
necessary to
make
it
352
THE REPUBLIC.
as to late requisitions
[1783
which existed
were
to
be removed.
With these views, he moved the appointment of a committee to report what further provision should be made
" for discharging the interest
on the
loan-office certificates
same ought
to be continued or altered."
The
between
of
That
an actual
specific valuation
of the lands
and improvements.
of an
effort
upon
it,
form an eventual plan towards carrying into execuHis view M^as, that
should be
by and acting under the authority of the United States upon uniform principles. This resolution, together with those of the sixteenth of December, was referred to a
committee composed of a member from each
state.
up another
subject
faith.
bills
held in the
The New-
England
plies,
that
some provision should be made for their redemption. memorial having this object had been presented to
which was referred
to a
grand
when
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
accounts of the several
states,
353
settle the
and of individuals
an interest of
six
and
money
assigned to
The rate was left in blank, to be filled up by the house. The recent pledge introduced by Hamilton, of a determination to provide for the whole debt, probably induced
Massachusetts to
bills
in such provision.
Much
opposi-
any redemption of
North
these emissions.
When
Carolina
lost,
this
report
its
was
moved
postponement.
it
redeem
upon
principles
justice."
and
it
being thus
admitted,
redeemed
charge, Hamilton
filled
with the
that they were a national moved " that the blank in the report be word forty,' " the rate of depreciation conat
all,
'
which composition he had cenThis motion was made to fix the ratio which was also rejected, some
faith.
at
as
any provi-
The
effort to
this
Madison Papers,
vol. 1,
No congress
again on the
by the
Vol. II.23
354
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
While the preliminary measures of finance were depending, the dangers which had been apprehended from
the discontents of the
ser-
standing
bills
re-
deemed by
them
at the
same
rate.
Mr.
verse to
it,
to
an instruction.
40
;
were proposed.
Second,
;
First, 1 for
1 for
on which the
75, no;
for 100, no
;
The
;
reasons
were
first,
faith
secondly,
that the depreciation of the certificates would reduce the rate sufficiently low,
they being
now
1.
The
reason for
1 for
eastern states
for
lated rate, and as adopting the current rate might hurt the credit of other
securities,
whieh derived
it
their value
strictly
redeemed,
;
was
of liberality
depreciation
when
the
circulation ceased.
The
had been
greater.
re-
deemed, and
this side
it
in all of
On
witliin
congress, but in the last stages of depreciation, and, in a great degree, even
after the
tion, the
to
circulate
tliat
that
money had generally changed hands at a value far below any fate had been named that the principle established by the plan of the 18th
;
money
it
in question,
was
current,
and at which
was
same money
tion.
dissatisfac-
any
decision."
bills in
On
circulation
Spanish milled
dollar.
To allow
was a breach
The
statement
is,
to represent
is
is
Hamilton as voting
its
in favour of this
breach of faith
incorrect in all
parts.
tlie
The
transaction
7th of December,
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
in a conspicuous light
355
vices
were placed
by
his efforts to
Near
main army,
and not on the 7th of January, the actual date of the occurrence as appears
by the journals,
it is
vol. 4,
page 141.
To give
represented as having taken place in grand committee, and not in the house.
elected by the preceding congress,* and
was
McKean,
it ;
Telfair, Williamson,
and Witherspoon.
member of
The
came
amount
blank
consideration.
Hamil-
ton and Madison both voted against the motion for a postponement, which
was
lost.
It
redeem on
prin-
ciples
substantial justice."
for
a motion
it.
Hamil1,
No
vote
was
this.
Hamilton evinced
engagement. In voting
In
not to refer the provision to the states, he voted from the same motive.
proposing 40 for
1,
1,
page 360:
"
Robert
reso-
March,
'80, as
a standard
we ought
it
about the
is
would avoid
all
future
He
also voted
to certify certain
1 dollar in
Madison voting
redeem
tiie
conti-
by the plan of the 18th March, 1780, was, that the holder should receive
it
was
current,
and
at
which
it
re-
ceived
of
its
it,
principle
downfall.
40
for 1,
was
356
THE EEPUBLIC.
among
the
[1783.
to Verplank's Point,
woody
hills
in
Newburgh, a
most
eligible that
Their wants,
and the near approach of peace, increased their anxiety for an adjustment of their accounts, and led the officers to
look with extreme solicitude to the establishment of substantial funds,
as
it
should
become
Alarmed by information
was a
to
large party
began
be formed.
But
they were diverted from this purpose, and induced to petition congress.
others
their
that they
had borne
all
that
an end, and their friends wearied out and disgusted with that the soldiers had not re;
seventy-seven,
dollar
for
were paid in continental money, when the was worth only four pence, and that the accounts After this the subsequent years were unliquidated.
a reason that did not exist assigned
is
Not only
is
for his
own
imputed to Hamilton
to give.
The
The
reason stated by
Madison
to
in favour
of" 40
Hamilton
reason imputed to
Hamilton by Madison
for,
for
1,
was, that as popular ideas were opposed to the stipulated rate, and as
adopting the current rate might hurt the credit of other securities, which derived their value from an opinion that they would be strictly redeemed,
it
was
best to take
What
JilT. 26.]
HAMILTON.
357
and
on
such a footing as
would
restore
and generosity of
very
its
constituents,
and contribute
to the
desirable effect
Ad-
which were viewed, they proposed, in order to prevent altercations and distinctions, to commute the half-pay for full pay for a certain number of years, or for
the persons
sum
in gross.
To
gal,
McDou-
The
state of opinion
jealous spirit
was not such as to inspire confidence. The which withheld from the confederation the was not unwilling
to
abandon or
to
Aware of
sal
it
of
all
partial favours to
had urged the necessity of avoiding discriminations between different classes of creditors, and had succeeded in
postponing various applications for
relief,
the grant of
which must have engendered discontent. The army memorial was referred to a committee of
which he was chairman, and on the twenty-fifth of January a report was
It
made by him.
five articles
:
comprehended
Present
pay
settle-
ment of accounts of the arrearages of pay, and security a commutation of the half-pay for an for what was due
equivalent in gross
defi-
35S
ciencies of rations
THE REPUBLIC.
and compensation, and a similar
and compensation.
as to clothing
[1783.
settle-
ment
As
state
of finance to make the payment requested, as soon as the of the finances would permit
;
as to the accounts,
upon
of August, seven-
period be
it
made
all
at the ofl[ice
of finance.
As
to security,
mon
with
an undoubted right
to
in
their
power
to
obtain
from the
to
respective
object
states
substantial
funds,
adequate
the
of
will
immediate and
full
consideration of the
mode of
ob-
The remaining
articles
were referred
member
and
By
were recommended
;
to
make compensation
that
pay
first
of
month
It
it
was declared
therefore
that the
army should
stipulation.
receive
in the
new
emis-
sions.
was
an express
Yet Madison
last
states,
"
a^
day of De-
The same
principle
^40
for
1,
It is seen
this stipulation.
How
the
tiiat
change
to
Hamilton voted
August.*
is is
As
this
its
probability
more than
questionable.
Mad. 278-9,
*4
J.
C. 152.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
this report
359
and adequate funds, was considered. The earUest known opinions of Hamilton indicate
command
it
of
it.
He had
means of acquiring it inherent in themselves, and independent on the temporary pleasure of the different mem" As power without revenue, in a political society, bers."
congress,"
he
the
government, it nor credit. Credit supposes specific and permanent funds for the punctual payment of interest, with a moral cerfoederal
tainty of the
final
This
Had
of the nation."
"
appointment
taxes,
of
all ofiicers
and militaiy
officers
mass of influence
in favour
arrived
when he was
enabled, per-
measure which he
permanent
Unfortunately, on
* August
4,
1781No.
4.
t Jan. 27.
360
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
power
to raise
an impost
by temporary
a decided repugnance to
the
supremacy of the
permitting any
commonwealth,
this state,
or taxes
is
upon the
its
citizens
of
injurious to
sovereignty,
may
rights
and liberty of
this people,
is
and so
far as congress
spirit
contravening the
this
of the
Unpropitious as
procedure was, no
other resource existed, and the debate proceeded in a committee on " permanent funds."
The
first
were provided they were to be collected by the states, as Hamilton had previously urged, should depend on
single will."
" a
With a view
to
its
:
That
it is
the opinion
war
be provided
but by
to operate generally
throughout the
to he collected
hy congress."
The
and answered
was
particularly important
that
Prompted by
this
con-
her
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
36J
citizens.
would
totally
obstruct
all
That such provision would offer eventual lic creditors, and enable them to support
which can be drawn from the people
to a
relief to the
pub-
payment of debts,
for,
which would involve the ruin of all ranks, creditors and That congress were and had long been deeply others.
impressed with the absolute necessity that speedy and
effectual
first
to liquidate
and
payment
this
He
Rhode
concurrence to the
assent once given,
withdrawn
its
state
The inability of congress to perform its engagements, was stated to have resulted from the defective compliances
of the states during the war.
Of
had been
collected.
The proceeds of
the foreign
little
an available balance a
In
vol. 1,
this passage
is
found
" In a late report, which had been drawn up by Mr. Hamilton, and ?nade
to congress, in
answer
to a
among
was observed,
the
immediate
dis.
hononrahle to congress.
The
fact also
was
controverted.
Mr. Hamilton
362
THE EEPUBLIC.
;
[1783.
while to feed,
and pay
command
of congress, was
in order to to
it,
more
engagements
words
'
applied by con-
This proposi-
that in one or
two small
instances,
and particularly
payment of the
made
of the aid
The
less
report
was
finally
recommitted."
it
This
is
no
on
the score of expediency, on the part of two gentlemen whose probity never
was
suspected, and for the motive of justifying congress with the public
creditors.
This minute
is
It speaks of
a late report
made
to congress.
thirtieth of
The journal
January
it is
on the
given in
full,
as having been
"
agreed to as
follows."
why
was not
or
stricken out,
money
But
if
in
one
two small
instances.
He
adds, that
it
was recommitted.
if it
these
had been
originally in
the report,
port,
is
it
retained.
On
language
antici-
pations
For
most christian
4 J. C. 155.
But
if
it
unsupported.
The
the papers which Madison as chairman of a committee reported, and referred to in an address of which he was the author.
IV.,
is
One
March
to
15, 1783.
commences thus
" Sir
to inform you,
that his majesty procures for the United States a loan of six millions,
he
employed in the war department during the course of the current year." " The Count de Vergennes informs me, sir, that the six millions are lent to
the United States in the same manner, and under the same conditions, with
the
sir,
the
" I have had the honour to inform you, sum which was lent last year." States to enable them to carry on United the that this money is lent to war. The wisdom of congress will determine according to circum-
iEx. 26.]
HAMILTON.
million
363
dollars
;
little
more than a
and a half of
"
sum
insuf-
ficient to
pay the
interest then
" Yet,"
Hamilton remarked,
encountered,
they
their
it
now
Soon
mode of valuing
the lands
districts,
which
by congress, was
efficient
to determine the
requisitions to be made.
Convinced that no
moved
to
He
so
to
which the
were
.then inadequate,
and that
in a matter
stances on the
the enemy,
manner
and of compelling
hy joint
efforts, to
conclude a
solid
obvious.
Already a creditor
a large amount,
A declaration such as
him
in endeavour,
ing to substitute, would have been to declare that congress had violated their
pledge to France in applying this loan to the immediate use of the army-r
the express use for which the loan
was granted.
364
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
fundamental in the confederation, it was essential to the harmony and welfare of the United States, that it should
be carried into
impartiality,
effect
of the land by commissioners, appointed by them, and acting under their authority, upon principles uniform throughout the United States
plete,
;
that
when
this valuation is
com-
making equitable abatements to such as have been more immediate sufferers by the war that in the mean time they would adhere, in the temporary adjust:
by
them
the valua-
on which they had been made. This motion, though supported by a majority of members,
was
lost in
a vote by
states,
their proceedings
The officers were urgently pressThe justice of those claims was not to be questioned. The terms of commutation offered by the army, could not be excepted to. The claimants were
results.
suffering.
They had
Hamilton
his
and
after
due
reflection,
appre-
-^T. 26.]
HAMILTON.
365
HAMILTON TO WASHINGTON.
Philadelphia, Feb. 7, 1783.
SIR,
me
will in-
make
as dictated
by a regard
gest to
you
I
my
I
portance.
ideas on some matters of delicacy and imview the present juncture as a very interest-
ing one.
army make it so. The state of our finanwas perhaps never more critical. I am under injunctions which will not permit me to disclose some facts that would at once demonstrate this position, but I think it probable you will be possessed of them through another channel.* It is however certain that there has scarcely been a period of the revolution which called more for wisdom and decision in congi'ess. Unfortunately for us, we are a body not governed by reason or foresight, but by circumstances. It is probable we shall not take the
situation of the
ces
proper measures
and
if
we do
not, a
we
in
If the
war
it
continues,
it
would seem
that the
;
army must
to itself.
June
if
peace should
take place,
It
procure justice
disposition to
recompense
down
means of obtaining
justice.
ground for
366
It
TnE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
becomes a serious inquiry, What is the true Hne of poHcy ? The claims of the army, urged with moderation, but with firmness, may operate on those weak minds
which are influenced by
their apprehensions
more than
by
their judgments, so as to
measures which the exigencies of affairs demand. They to the apphcations of congress to the
So
far a useful
turn
may be
given to
them.
But the difficulty and suffering army within the bounds of moderation. This your excellency's influence must eflfect. In order
to
it, it
will
ment
of the people.
own situation
of the
community
points out.
it
I will
is
An
idea
is
propagated in
your espousing
its
interests
with
sufficient
warmth.
The
it is
Its
tendency
is
which
you may
their duty.
The
is
the establishment
whom
the
army forms
the
.^T. 26.]
nAMILTON".
class,)
367
and supply
all
most meritorious
the future
wants of government.
;
This
is
the object of
men of
The
you
sense
directed,
may
co-operate.
intimations I have
thrown
my
sentiments
;
but
my
motives.
is
General
Knox
;
man
of sense
I
may
of.
Situated as
few days
Hamilton proposed
a resolution, which
was
on the
political
and military
aflfairs
of these
many
occasions
experienced."
and
" to
make
a confi-
communication
to
him of
when The day after the date of this letter, the discussion of the mode of ascertaining the quotas of the states was retions for peace
sumed.
at
different
when a
plan was
adopted, five
members
dissenting.f
By
its
land granted or
number of
from
others,
inhabitants.
* Feb. 20.
368
THE REPUBLIC.
whom
make an estimate of
[1783.
concurring,
were
to
and
also
of ad-
justing
all
As
states,
this rule,
if strictly
adhered
to,
would charge
the
plies
when
an entire
upon New-
York,
it
resolution, for
power of mak-
more immediate
sufferers
by
the war.
This motion was in accordance with a recommendation of the previous congress, that in a final settlement
state,
had disagreed
it.
to that
Ham-
brought forward
this proposition
in a different form.
congress that
Though admitted
to defeat
it, it
to
be within the
spirit
;
of the con-
federation, a postponement
* In
vol. 1,
page 362, Madison Papers, Madison represents himself as beand in page 418,
amendment
which
.^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
369
The importance of this question to the interests of the community he represented, and the course which he had
taken in reference to
letter* to the
it,
the proceedings
upon
it
in different
stages,
I
which they
have acted.
But as
it
by was
my
am
duty to
my
opposition to the
I
was grounded.
itself
of opin-
of confederation
In the
first
place, I
do not believe
ability to
pay
taxes.
thought of
The revenues of
the
of Great Britain.
war at more than half as much as those The extent of their territory is not one
;
The comparison
more
striking
between those
and
yet,
of the
to
latter
efforts
any thing
"In both
level.
cases, the
in those countries
I
which afford
revenue in proportion.
iar
have
laid
down
is
stated.
On
ginia
members,
it.
and
then to reject
4 J. C. 170.
Vol. II.24
370
"
THE REPUBLIC.
The
truth
is,
[1783.
pay
to
taxes, de-
pends on
causes,
rule
;
infinite
any general
and
climate,
The make an
contribute
by general
" In this
and
but experience,
interest,
which, by
must
in the
main
would
at length
state,
by another
not
One
to
thing only
To
money
be paid into the general treasury towards deexpenses, have, in effect, the constitu-
fraying the
tional
common
power of general taxation. The restraints upon the exercise of this power amount to the perpetuating a rule for fixing the proportions, which must of necessity produce inequality, and by refusing the foederal government a
power of specific taxation and of collection, without substituting any other adequate means of coercion, do in fact leave
the compliance with Continental requisitions to the goodwill
of the respective
states.
Inequality
is
inherent in the
Mt.26.]
HAMILTON.
;
371
and
must be
fixed,
ferable to land.
but
am
persuaded, the
all
the land, in
like ex-
actness.
disad-
of the people
much more
simple, definite,
and
have
little
mode of
car-
owe
it,
however, to myself
to declare, that
my
The ConI
would
which
every
man
yet as this
I
was not
the disposition
of a majority of congress,
mode of attempting
it,
mischievous or impracticable.
" The first plan proposed, as your excellency will see, was an actual valuation of each state by itself. This was evidently making the interested party judge in his own
cause.
ciple
this prindis-
same
state,
and the
tricts in tlie
that the
one
state
372
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
results.
mode had
all
also
the
further inconvenience
of
awakening
each other.
favoured
Each would
suspect that
partiality
its
neighbour had
It
itself,
whether the
appeared or not.
would be impossible
the states
sit
and
to
make
signal
down
satisfied
Every new
already
"
requisition for
for discussion
sown too
would be not a
little
multiplied.
To guard
by congress but it is easy to be seen, that such a power could not be exercised. Should any states return
sion
defective valuations,
it
would be
to alter
would not be
ject,
view of the premises. To do either this, or to rewould be an impeachment of the honour of the states, which it is not probable there would be decision enough
actual
to hazard,
and which,
if
fail
to excite
serious disgusts.
There
power over
its
it
own
It
counties^
over sovereign
might
also
many
states
would be
interested in the
number
by a
willing
The
last
plan
may be
less
but
appears to
me
altogether ineffectual.
tity
Mr.
26.]
HAMILTON.
^he plan does not even
the
3T3
distinguish
degrees of improvement
These,
by
I
the commissioners to be
but
am
unable to conceive
how
the least
estimate of these
own
state,
much
was
sup-
states,
by
but
must
'
now
be
all
The number of
is
from
black,
called for.
This
is
may
guide
A judgment
must
first
be formed
If this
plain,
to land.
is,
Another objection
to this plan
that
it
lets in the
par-
number of
buildings,
and number
of inhabitants.
"
Whoever
article
in-
of land, buildings,
estimate, according
and improvements
upon ad-
we
should do
it
in reality, not
374
"
THE EEPUBLIO
Many
of those
it
[1783.
who
voted for
this
an opinion of
cede to
were induced
it by a persuasion that some plan for the purpose was expected by the states and that none b-etter, in the
;
down
tion of
my conduct,
is
this
that while I
would have a
I
would never
would
con-
There should,
and efficiency
have
in
my
opinion, be a character of
wisdom
I
in all the
would
states, to
thing,
would be more
and
"
fruitless attempts.
My idea
is,
that taking
it
make
it
by commissioners,
ap-
in" (his)
" views, and wished the valuation to be taken up, in order that
cability o.nA futility
impracti-
This statement
at variance
It
an eventual valuation"
adherence to the confederation, as intending " an actual and specific valuation ;"
ino-
and
in notes for
Vermont, he says
" We
a speech, endorsed on a
letter
" The
who made
the
states
do not pay
we
" Go
according
to confederation."
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
first
375
more
under them
state.
General
down
conduct, by which uniformity in the manner of conducting the business would obtain.
part
the commissioners
could
"
To
expense
and, unfortunately,
we
money
we
could not
at present undertake a
large a sum.
"
To me
is
it
which
common
interest.
In general,
dawn of
it
peace,
shall pro-
to such as
appear to
me founded on
false principles.
"
Your excellency
is
lands
to
cumstances of those states which have been more immediately the theatre of the war, will charge our state for
its
future
ahility,
376
the
THE REPUBLIC.
enemy.
I
[1783.
peating the
call in
power of making
last,
equitable abate-
ments, agreeably to
the spirit
twentieth of February
have
1
complied with.
know
'*
I I
have given,
now
the
hope the
state will
is
required.
Unless each
governed by
an end of the
union.
case, to
it
Every state will no doubt have a right, in this accompany its compliance with such remarks as
think proper.
may
was agreed upon, it was committed to be put into form and when reported, instead of commissioners, an alteration was carried for making the estimate
" After the plan
;
signified to
of June,
if
This will
fit
No man
we
for
the
be willing to supply
'Tis
I
very rea-
sons he resigns.
happy
for us
have reason to
expect a peace.
am
appears not to have been concluded late in December." While this subject was under consideration, the question
of providing for the public debt was again brought forThe temper of congress led Hamilton to doubt ward.
whether
its
nation demanded.
lic
He
to
endeavour
It is
to cause
it
to
be
felt.
known
During the
earlier peri
Is
of
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
377
But
this necessity
was
felt
by discerning men by
a single body.
The
was not
counsels,
felt,
mourned
this
the absence of
the
warm
Obvious
as the
consequences of
all
to
make
the
first
effort in
He saw
its
the congress
sinking
recommendations disregarded,
counsels misrepresented
;
resolves
disobeyed,
the
by
viewing
it
when
fact, the
which were
institution
the
common
defence.
He saw
moment
He had
in vain
had he exerted
prejudices of
the
to
The stern New-Hampshire could not be overcome Connecticut was not to be soothed. By those states it was intended that a most solemn pledge for a most sacred
induce a compliance with their just demands.
debt, the price of their independence, should be deliberately violated.
On
day appointed
to
call,
for
378
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
of
all civil
and
all
grants for the pay, half-pay, and gratuities, for their past
services.
Hamilton
felt that
the
at stake,
and that
it
was a question
He
the
"
Whereas,
it
is
and measures,
constituents
(as far as
safety,) should be
known
to
their
therefore, resolved.
for
establish-
ment of funds
answer given
to so important a proposition,
was
Rhode
Island, as to
if the
whom
member wishes
the people
a report
was made
to the house
by
which
In
this
form
it
to a special committee.*
who
^T.
26.]
nAMILTON".
in
379
receive
commutation of
pay
for
years, either in
money, or
commuta-
all
officers
who had
retired
to
the
widows of
with a
A
view
this report,
rejected.*
five
full
the states,
to
fill
which was
failed,
full
years'
The
subject
being a ques-
rence of nine
provision
Soon
letter to
Washington,
in
which
will
"
DEAR
I
SIR,
and
thank
you
and observations
it
has conveyed
to me.
I shall
always think myself obliged by a free comdid not accord with the
thought wrong, as
it
New
New
f ing a
The
little
letters of
W.
to
differ-
380
THE REPUBLIC.
and pecuniary
[1783.
army was
let
more
than he
some
otiiers.
It follows then by fair deduction, that where there is a want of information, there must be chance-medley and a man may be upon the brink of a precipice before he is aware of his danger, when a little foreknowledge might enable him to avoid it. But this by the by.
;
The
hint contained in
your
letter,
payment of
our funds
finances
re-
and so
far
was
was
had imbibed ideas from some source of information or another, that with the prospect of a loan
from Holland
further.
we
little
To you
who have
exposed
want of
its
of licentiousness which
imbibed
by becoming
in
own
it
proveditors,
cy of such a measure
that
tions
it
I shall
give
as
my
opinion,
would at this day be productive of civil commoand end in hlood. Unhappy situation this God
forbid
we
should be involved in
in
it.
The predicament
is
which
as
stand, as citizen
& soldier,
It
as critical
and delicate
many
The
sufferings of a complaining
may
be productive
^T.
ed
;
26.]
HAMILTON.
I
381
is
but
am
as
if
there
such a disposijustice,
tion
shown
for.
your apprehensions
is
cause
In
this,
however,
may be
mistaken,
if
those
in
the
army should be
it, is
which may
have no
said, for I
proof of
Be
fully
same
me
hitherto,
the
never took
it
have rendered
am happy
my own
army
it
now
is,
leaves
me under no great
apprehension of
moderation
the
army
is,
The
hoped
just claims of
will
the
army
ought, and
it
is
to
be
legisla-
show
the case
is
practicability of
complying without
it
In any
would
in
my
opinion be impolitic to
it
army on
its
concomitants.
The
states cannot,
surely, be so devoid of
common
sense,
common
on a
honesty,
clear,
es-
and common
full,
by members of
their
382
THE EEPUBLIO.
[1783
body, who might demonstrate what the mevitable consequences of failure must lead to. In my opinion, it is worthy of consideration how far an adjournment of con-
own
is
advisable.
The
delegates, in
nothing of the business before congress, nor of the arcanum, it appears that such a measure would tend to pro-
mote the public weal for it is clearly my opinion, unless Congress have powers competent to all general purposes, that the distresses we have encountered, the expenses we
;
we have
spilt in
the course
The con-
your
letter
prudence
will direct
is known only to myself and your what should be done with this. With great esteem and regard."
On
to
the
day
Hamilton wrote
Washington, suggesting a
and Wells, residents correspondence with the enemy. A surmise that the vote for their detection had been communicated to them by a
member
of congress, added to the motives for their arrest. resolution was afterwards passed, requesting the execu-
necticut,
and New-York,
on
congress of nearly two months, informed it, of any moment had been decided for them."
nothing
letter
Their
articles
^T.
try,
26.]
HAMILTON.
383
Peace,
which
all
Under
dan-
and
moment of
gerous excitement, the event which Hamilton had anticipated in the preceding letter occurred.
On
anonymous
notice
was
cir-
and
field-officers
and of a commissioned
lowing day,
officer
" to consider
seem
to
have
solicited in vain."
At
the
was
the
angered
till
lately,
very
lately,
pealed to the
it
Is
"a country
?
Is
this
the
Or
rights,
?
is
it
rather
your
disdains
your
and
insults
your
dis-
tresses
what
when your
voice shall
?
when
in-
your glory,
ing
sides,
and no remain-
mark of
if
military distinction
firmities,
this
;
and scars
left,
" If
your
spirits
should revolt at
to discover
and
spirit suf-
oppose TYRANNY, whatcver garb it may assume, you have yet learned to discriminate between a people and a cause, between men and principles awake, atficient to
if
384
THE REPUBLIC.
!
[1783.
If the
moment be
lost,
every future
effort
is
in vain,
and
your threats then, will be as empty as your entreaties now. I would advise you, therefore, to come to some final opinion upon what you can bear and what you can suffer.
If
your determination be
in
any proportion
style
to
your
memorial
lively,
spirited,
and determined
to
and
suspect
the
Man, who
would advise
"
That
in
any
army has
its
alternative
but death
if
war,
that,
some
"mock
when
complied with
in
of congress to the
"But were their requests war, they would follow the standard and when it came to an end, field
;
would withdraw
other subject of
wonder
and applause
an army, victorious
their passions
is-
over
its
itself."
To
were
being taken
all
moment, while
sued a general order disapproving " these disorderly proceedings," and convening the officers on the 15th of March,
to exercise a "
mature deliberation."
this
In
as
this pait
is
in
private
life, is
of political characters,"
the
Washington ought
deemed an approval of
his pre-
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
and furnishing a new motive which had been recommended."
335
for
that energy
This insidious attempt to keep alive the irritation of the army, and prepare them for violent measures, it required
all
chief to parry.
He
at this
he had adopted the wise course policy suggested, that "of taking the direction of
the measures to procure redress."
DEAR
SIR,
1
last, we were in a state of tranbut after the arrival of a certain gentleman, who shall be nameless at present, from Philadelphia, a storm
When
wrote to you
quillity,
very suddenly arose, with unfavorable prognostics, which, though diverted for a moment, is not yet blewn over, nor
is
it
in
I
my power
send
to point to the
issue.
The Papers
which
oflicially to
cessity of
my
and Address both appeared at the same instant, on the day preceding the intended meeting. The first of
notification
till
next morning.
There
is
this business.
It
were forming
in the
Army,
and
this at
a time
kind in agitation
It also appears, that upon the arrival in Camp of the gentleman above alluded to, such sentiments as these were immediately circulated : That it was universally expected
the
army would
tice.
not disband until they had obtained jusThat the public creditors looked up to them for
redress of their
own
grievances,
w-d
afford
them every
Vol. II.25
386
aid,
THE REPUBLIC.
and even join them
in the Field, if
[1783.
necessary ; That
the
with
many
of a similar nature.
From
this,
it is
firmly believed
by some,
the
by
I
oth-
.army
but
my own
to
;
till
have
better
ground
were thought
anonymous was
invitations
and address
to the officers
were
I
were
all
them from
of
horror from
it is
than
it
is
and
fatal steps
which have
ably to the
alive,
commonly supposed, if the Officers had met agreeanonymous summons, with their feelings all
might have been formed, the conse-
resolutions
quences of which
described.
ter
may
Now
more
more
seriously.
It is to
be
and wait a while longer for a settlement of and almost the only
their
aec'ts, the
plausible,
of which designing
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
use,
387
by insinuating (which
may
were
war
you
great
to-morrow
would have
distances, perhaps,
to obtain a
This
is
their language.
sir,
Let
me
my
good
and without
further delay.
verily believe
is
The
do
af-
distressing
beyond
if
description.
It is
without liquidation of
ace'ts,
To
prevail
may,
in
my
if
must be answerable
to
God and
their
country
P. S.
am
this instant
No.
2, is
thrown
into circulais
in
second page of
this
treatment, viz.
"
By
others,
is
the illegitimate
off"-
On
public
and of the
388
THE EEPUBLIC.
[1783.
Philadelphia,
March
17th, 1783.
SIR,
am
letters
It is
much to be
army.
regret-
Your
best
my
The
way
I
is
divert
it.
am happy
to find
you coincide
it
in opinion
with
by yourself
which
is
me on I am
is
that
most con-
with your
own
Our
affairs
wear a most
Before
domestic.
this gets to
might, at
first
appearance,
to
of such a conclusion.
quarters
may
arise
from
different
from the
still
the hope in
demands of Spain and Holland, from France of greater acquisitions in the east, and
perhaps
man,
may
am
really
apprehensive, if peace does not take place, that the negotiations will lead to
sow
distrust
among
league.
the
allies,
and
weaken
fear,
common
We
The
latter,
have, I
men among
and men
in trust,
who
have a hanker-
We
may
be
.Et. 26.J
HAMILTON.
and make
it
389
prudent
can
interest,
difficult for
men
to steer
a proper course.
There are
late
am
veal,
Some
use, perhaps,
may
be made of
An
opin-
upon a secure
footing,
upon the patriotism of the officers against hazarding any domestic commotions. When I make these
observations, I cannot forbear adding, that if no excesses
ill
peared.
the army.
I shall
in the majority
of congress,
not sufficient
wisdom or
discretion.
There
and
stability
There
is
a fatal opposition to
work
a reform
we
The
affair
satis-
of accounts
factory footing.
to
settle
'till
The
first
the
of August,
'80,
the subject.
We
of
five years'
purchase
life
;
that
is,
pay, instead
of half-pay for
is
nearly an equivalent.
hope
this will
now
shortly take
place.
We
funding
all
of
390
THE REPUBLIC.
army
;
[1783.
which
is
way
and enable
if it
by borrowing abroad,
it.
should
be necessary to continue
I
European
all
New- York
if
be evacuated in
the spring.
be a pity
P. S.
that
it
and the army, and that members of congress had encouraged the idea. This is partly true. I have
creditors
in-
army
as a part of
Sev-
eral other
the same.
The
meaning, however, of
this
and a sense of
hension of
ill
justice to the
letter, I
am
still
good
end
effect.
As
to
it
would
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
39I
The
was
officers
the second in
called to preside.
bound
in fetters
for winter
among
the mountains,
them was rugged and drear, in unison with and indignant sense of unrewarded sacrifices, broken faith, and baffled hopes, which lowered over their
the stern
All around
countenances.
Washington, who had never been greeted but with afwas received with cold and calm respect. It appeared as though sedition had felt it necessary to comfection,
mence her
trangement
secret
work by engendering
!
suspicions against
:
He
arose
he
felt
the es-
issue.
As
he uncovered his venerated head, and was about to address them from a written paper in his hand, his eye grew dim,
unpremeditated remark you perceive I have not only grown gray, but blind in your service." After commenting on
:
and he uttered
"Fellow-soldiers,
anonymous
papers, addressed
more
and passions, than to the reason and judgment of the army, he repelled the insidious imputation on
himself:
charity
The author of the piece should have had more than to mark for suspicion the man who should re"
words, should not think as he thinks, and act as he advises. But he had another plan in view, in which can-
dour and
liberality
designs
'
of these addresses,
to be
how
promoted
The way
is plain,'
army
'
If
392
THE REPUBLIC.
continues,
[1783.
war
remove But
there
to
establish yourselves,
defend
itself.'
whom
Our wives,
we
Or
in the state
we
to take the
two
first,
(the latter
cannot be removed,)
?
to perish in a wilderness
'
until
and ample
justice.'
This
distress, or
which
is
My
?
God ! what
a
?
can
ures
this
?
Can he be a
friend to the
?
army
Can he be
Rather,
is
some emissary, perhaps, from New- York, plotting the ruin of both, by sowing the seeds of discord and separation between the civil and military powers of the continent ?"
Recurring to the insidious imputation which he
levelled directly at himself, he
remarked
'
felt
was
"
With
respect to
by the author, to suspect the man who recommend moderation and longer forbearance,' /
at
it,
spurn
After
as every
man who regards that liberty and rewe contend, undoubtedly must."
his exertions in
on
himself,
and
their behalf,
he concluded
:
after
Let
me
own
of the
man who
10
iET. 26.]
HAMILTON.
393
tempts to open the jlood-gates of civil discord rising empire with blood !"
Awed by
every
soldier's
they forgot
and of
their
Their
first
was
affection he
unshaken confidence in the justice of congress and their country," and their " abhorrence and disdain" at the infa-
and machithe
The conjecture
letter to
paragraph of Washington's
at that time in the
Hamilton,
upon a person
;
upon him,
publicly
source
was not
for a long
time acknowledged.
It
was
at last
strong, then
the
to ArmAs Gordon is an old friend and an honest man, I have answered him frankly, that the letters were written in my quarters by you, copied by Richmond and circulated by Barker, and were intended
strong
given, in
which he says
from Gates
"
to produce a strong remonstrance to congress in favour of the object prayed for in a former one, and that the
conjecture that
it
was meant
to offer the
crown
to Ca;sar,f
war by Madison.
t In May, 1782, Colonel Nicola wrote to Washington suggesting the introduction of a monarchy, and was indignantly rebuked. In a note upon
this correspondence,
comment
is
found
394
[1783.
picion alluded to
was without any foundation." Thus is confirmed the susby Washington, that " the old leaven
at
was
work."
is
Gates
which denounced,
" as a
machination of designing
men
to
powers of the
own
quarters,
a procedure he described
from head-quarin-
merely
Upon
ters
Colonel Hamilton
officers.
"
the conduct
of some
as a
new proof
community
which
" There was unquestionably at this time, and for some time afterwards, a party in the army, neither small in number nor insignificant in character,
prepared to second and sustain a measure of this kind, which they conceived
necessary to strengthen the
civil
this
No
evidence
was
One
and confidence
One
of these
was the
it
weight.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
in
395
every period of the
of a patriot arjiy."
the contest
The termination of
contemplation of Hamilton
to the
reflec-
He
the value of
Washington
and thus
adverted to the great part which he would be called on to perform in giving strength and durability to the Union.
"
this
La
Fayette, informall
the
been concluded.
congratulate
now
to
at their pleasure
in fine, to
it is
truly
a blessing.
This,
to be lamented, will
be an arduous
centri-
work
fugal
for, to
borrow a
figure
is
states.
much stronger than the centripetal force in these The seeds of disunion are much more numerous
I will add, that
your excellency's
a future
I will,upon
upon
this subject.
is
Your
conduct, in
The
On
plied
:
Washington
re-
396
"
THE REPUBLIC.
SIR,
[1783.
DEAR
" I
have
ult.
24th
is
an end to
open
to our view,
it,
make
must
happy people
but
it
politics,
and unreahands
we
shall
be instruments
but to attain
this,
although the
way seems
extremely
My
states
established
upon
liberal
and permanent
principles,
and inclination
to contribute
my
my
and wherever
tion, I
but
how
far
me might
be productive of
is
not easy
shall
me on
this subject,
and
as
it
convenient.
No man
in
than myself.
it
No
;
felt
the
bad
effects
of
more
sensibly
and want of
powers
ed by
in congress,
may
justly
More than
my command,
distress
whole of the
difficulties
and
iET. 26.]
HAMILTON.
;
397
but
still,
signs of others,
makes address and management necessary to give weight to opinions which are to combat the doctrines of these I would different classes of men in the field of politics.
have been more
" I
full
on
is
this subject,
(in the
clothing department)
waiting.
I
wish you
may
understand what
have written."
army had continued to press their was taken in relation to Her delegates were represented. them, Delaware was not
The
friends of the
claims.
When
induced to proceed to Philadelphia, and on the tenth of March, the day upon which the seditious notice was issued
at
Newburgh,
amended
as to
the officers
who
should
eight
deci-
it.
sion, intelligence
ings at
was received of the alarming proceedNewburgh, and those whom gratitude and a sense
fears.
But
moment a
result
which might
alienation, at
value, of so large a
certificates,
and
the balances
were not
their property,
other creditor.
swered.
nine
It prevailed,
states
The
The
vote of Connecticut
was
divided
398
resolution
THE EEPUBLIO.
making
this grant, stated that
[1783.
congress
was
de-
all
objections
to the
faith
which may
exist in
which the
persuaded that
whose
services, sacrifices,
sufferings,
and rewards of
their coun-
This resolution was from the pen of Hamilton. try.* Thus he was the instrument of accomplishing that measure which he had suggested in the formation of the military establishment
;
of the
states,
to relinquish.!
The attempts
to this chapter.
Hamilton
in
to
ment
ion."
as to the resolution
the opin-
In
p.
stated, "
That
it is
the opinion
of Congress that the establishment of permanent and adequate funds, to operate generally throughout the United States, for restoring public credit,
and
for
providing for the future exigencies of the war,' der the authority of Congress
afterwards.''
'
tiie
left to
be added
What
is this
tion of the
On
this
statement he
five years'
to
and
a
for
army
claims,
he addressed a note
to
the Secretary at
War, renouncing
^T.
25.]
HAMILTON.
adding "Mr. Wilson,
loith
399
The The mo-
the measure,
by Wilson.
is
State Department.
The
object of Madison, thus placing himself in the foreto the fact, that while
ground,
tion
is
defeated
by recurring
261 of
his
De-
imder distinctive
es
,
and then he
" It
that a valuation
This
was no
Hamilton,
proposed a classification by
;
New
Yorlc of its
own
but as to such a
classification, there
was
in that State
it
no constitutional
is
interdiction.
The Confederation
member
pense with
by Congress,
it
and defeated.
proposing an impracticable measure then he states, p. 318 Debates, " Mr. Hamilton wished the valdation to be taken up, in order that its imprac-
ticability
and futility might become more manifest." Yet the journals show (Feb. 6th) Hamilton's previously stated motion, reciting the obligatory article of the Confederation the Vlllth declaring " it should be carried
into effect
;
with great care, ch-cumspection, and impartiality " declaring " the necessity of defemng the attempt, from the situation of the finances " and pledging
;
them "
"
by commissioners appointed by them and and on the basis of such a valuation promised
an adjustment of the United States with the States separately, making equitable abatements. The journals show Madison voting with Hamilton on this
question
>
as its importance
demanded.
He
next rep-
resents
Con-
federation as to the
mode
of voting in committee,
when
it
is
obvious there
could exist no motive for so doing, as any subsequent vote in the House must have been by States seven a majority and any deviation from that rale in committee would have been futile as Madison states, " a waste of time would be the result." Still, he represents Hamilton as being in favor of it the next day: " HamUton proposed that it be agreed to, wrong as it was, rather than have no rule at all."Debates, 322, 323. The obvious purpose of these misstatements and their minuteness show the little faith due to them. This state;
ment
is essential,
American
historv.
CHAPTER
The
conclusion of the
public mind.
XXXII.
a
war gave
new
direction to the
its
attention
from a provision for the debt, and from the urgent claims of the army. A discussion of the merits and obligation
of the provisional treaty, of the conduct of the commissioners,
to
it
proper to
^
The
nations,
by Hamilton
in
determining the
some of
mark
the character of
early diplomacy.
It
is
a painful fact
in the
it
has
was contending,
its ally,
tage to
enemy produces
claimed
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
401
to
who
difficult to resist.
United States, as
was an
feel
alliance
which could
tution, laws,
American controversy, against a nation in whose constiand morals, those principles had their source and growth. The story is full of interest.
The
gave birth to
American empire.
which maintained peace between England and France during thirty years, had given time
policy
to the
The wise
commercial
spirit to
develop
its
power.
The
suc-
cesses of Spain
more remote
wealth.
This
spirit did
and a promise of
re-
in sev-
this
pact, the
re-
limits
must end
in
of
fifty-six,
402
THE REPUBLIC.
war
[1783.
against her
rise to the
different
branches of the
House of Bourbon in sixty-one, and two years later the Peace of Paris was made. France then renounced her title to Canada and New Scotland, ceding Louisiana to
Spain, as a soothing equivalent for her cession of the
Floridas to England, the
to be-
Worsted
in
now
and
sia
England had,
hands of RusFrance,
its
of Conti to
Turkey
to a
war with
Russia.
To make
influ-
a revolution in its
government,
and rejoiced
efficient ally.
it,
hope that
it
would prove a
fruitful subject
of contention
Two
of various intrigues,
his successor
In the selection of
confided the charge of
his
its
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
403
Gra-
The nominal chief of the cabinet was Philippeaux de Maurepas, who had served as Minister of Marine from seventeen hundred twenty-five to seventeen hundred
forty-nine,
when he was
Light
and yielding, a politician and a man of pleasure, he had been indicated to Louis by his father as meriting especial Under this advice, Maurepas was appointed, confidence.
His age and weakness of the monarch, not unwilling to be released from the fixed policy of
at the
pliability
commended him
to the
his predecessors,
up
to those
who made
a mockery of
life.
Thus Beauaflfairs
him.f
The
was
in
Vergennes.
of him, as a
man
and capable
in the
on good principles." J A native of Dijon, he first gave proof of his talent in the family of his distinguished relation, Chavigny, the ambassador to
conduct of
affairs
Portugal.
On
the institution of a
body of
secret corre-
George Hanover to elect a king of the Romans, Vergennes was commissioned to defeat him, in which he was successful, extorting the commendation of his discomfited opponents. Choiseul, bold, impulsive, disinterested, whose vision was filled with the grandeur of France, and whose loss of power was owing to the arts of an abandoned woman, Second sought
at a congress
Duke
of Broglio.
When
at
convened
* Flassan,
vi.
110.
f Capef.
i.
184.
X ^^^- 180.
404
and the not him
to
THE REPUBLIC.
less insidious practice
[1783.
win and
to guide
were placed in command of its soldiers, and when recalled, the Divan declared their warm regrets, and the protected commerce
French
officers
" I
have
orders of
my king,"
Vergennes
I
told Choiseul.
"
War
is
millions of secret
money, of which
had no
need."
his estates in
Burgun-
was again sought to perform an eminent service. Sweden was to be secured to France. He repaired to Stockholm, and when Gustavus hesitated, Vergennes told him " To-morrow to-morrow, you must begin the rev-
olution
to-morrow,
his
sir,
or
all
is
lost."
"
To-morrow,"
the
revolution
was
accom-
adroit
fore
whom, on
The
merce
in the necessaries
of
life,
an abolition of the
privi-
many
various reas
his side
Minis-
ter of Marine,
soon
new
Favored by Maurepas, he was approved to Louis by the assurance that his system would insure to France "internal tranquillity
consideration
caution as to
it
abroad
the
happiness of
the nation."
abilities
To promote
little
with
with
its
much
hesitation, lest
external policy.
* Flassan,
vi.
62, 63.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
405
The same
able
man
another
sect, the
man whose
morals
their
were not
tendency.
affected
by
aware of
On
the elevation of
Turgot
to the financial
depart-
whom
no
details escaped.
St.
Germain
Capricious, discredited,
The
military school
abolished.
The Hos-
of Invalids he suppressed.
The emoluments of
verities
German
se-
he introduced.
alienated,
degraded and
Thus invaded
French
officers
their rights
and
Each of
which France
is
distinguished.
Each con-
own
sysall.
tem.
There was no
religious
Louis
the
among
world
confiding where
to confide
student
among men of
to doubt
where
was
his
only safety
adopting, without
at the
sounding,
new
ideas,
hazard of experiment,
His
plenitude
passion,
when
all
were
re-
406
THE EEPUBLIC.
[1783.
command.
On
was
in-
in different hands.
flexibility
he yielded to
it
it
to
only in appearance.
reward of
his
crown and
Sacrificing an
for the
commended
good
loss.
Thus never were two potentates more opposite in character and position than were George and Louis. George, on the throne of France, by his obstinate firmness, would have arrested her revolution. Louis, on that of England, by his concessions, would have postponed the revolt of the American colonies.
Hamilton's anticipation, in the spring of seventy-five,
American people.
who
medium of communication.
The
direct or indirect,
by
either
^T.
26.J
HAMILTON.
407
any party that would inflict an injury on it, was It was a blot, and must be effaced. to be disregarded. Not half a century had elapsed since England had sub-
crown
to
sidized the
ish colonies
Huguenots
in their revolts.
To
would be a
justifiable retaliation.
Thus
rea-
soning, Vergennes,
who
in
dency of democracy
While
would be
chiefly de-
shown
in
America,
pow-
Spain, in the
moments of
the out-
Her
animosity to England,
Familiar with her
was content
his influ-
to urge
ence over the cognate powers of Tuscany and Naples. In the north of Europe, Russia, intent on the submission of "her
France appealed
to
was
to
be the head,
trals.
The liberation of the sea was welcomed by the young King of France, and, in the revocation of the droit d'aubain, the continent was invited to behold the first step
toward a fellowship of nations.
aid to
an insurrection,
in violation of treaty,
were only
to
of England.
On
this
in
a memoir to the
408
King, early
THE EEPUBLIO.
[1783.
advantages that
would be exposed,
of the possible
loss
To
Eng-
avoiding
in the
mean
time, while
This memoir
That
He
regarded the
final
Should
England
would no longer derive advantages from them. Should those resources be preserved, their courage and desire of
independence would occupy a part of the English strength
in
preventing a
new
revolt.
be followed by a
was
his
would be compelled
them
to en-
to
nations,
and
friendly
This inevitable
he urged,
for.
prompt
re-
was equally important, not to be surprised by England, and not to be drawn into a war by the heat of Spain by her too great confidence in her strength by
It
;
;
PoliticLue
de tous
les
Cabinets,
ii.
385.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
;
409
His
these
by her
just resentment.
by
and means of
hostility,
war
against
and a reconciliation with her colonies. But he advised aids to them by commercial facilities, supplies of munitions and of money, preserving their
duce concessions
to,
own
neutrality,
In the
interval, their
squadrons were
remain unarmed.
Thus sustained
in his views,
him that no writing should pass from his own hand or from those of his subordinates, but from that of his son, which could not be known. If granted, Griloan, assured
was
to
be informed, and
re-
quested to double
this
sum.*
While such were the proceedings at Paris, measures were taken in Philadelphia to invite and meet the favoring The memoir of Vergennes to dispositions of France.
Louis was preceded only a few days f by instructions to Silas Deane to repair to France, to seek a conference with
that Minister, to solicit supplies,
and to ascertain,
in case
knowledge
treaties of
it,
commerce
* Flassan,
vi.
140.
March
3,
1776.
410
THE REPUBLIC.
in the following
[1783.
was adopted
in place of Jefferson,
who
declined,
were
Deane had,
mitted to
in the
mean
was
ad-
by him,
that, sensible
American vessels that, " considering the good understanding between the Courts of Versailles and London,
;
He
inquired of the
their
commerce
"
and
es-
indepen-
among
themselves." *
This interview was followed by a proposal of Beaumarchais, the secret agent of the Minister, to furnish supplies
this
fictitious
mercantile firm.
To
proposal
was a
recommendis
Rome
brought
more
certain will be
its
effect,
and there
from indiscretion."
now
furnished,
and a commerce
motive for
service
The Declaration of Independence was urged as a The reply wa^, " What its acknowledgment.
can such acknowledgment be
to
the
United
States
free to
You
are
known
here
*"
Diplomatic Correspondence,
i.
15-39.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
" If
411
them."
it
will be
world to
all, it is
France be obliged to make war on England, much more just and honorable in the eyes of the make it on some other account and if made at
;
same thing to the United States, and in one point of view better for them, to have it originate from
the
as
America
will
be under the
less
imme-
The examples of
A month later, the Commissioners of the United States were admitted to a private audience, and presented the proposed treaty of commerce. A memoir followed, on
the situation of the United States, with a
ticles
copy of the
ar-
The
British envoy,
replied,
Vergennes
"
The
war with
Britain."
armed ships of America, and of her privateers. The double policy Vergennes had marked out for himself was still adhered to. He affected to know nothing of the supplies furnished. Every step was taken to gratify England publicly, by attending to the remonstrances of her ambassador, by forbidding the departure of ships laden with military stores, by recalling officers about to repair to America, by inhibiting the sale of prizes in French ports. The American commissioners were at the same
* Flassan,
151.
vi,
4:12
THE REPUBLIC.
and a secret grant of two millions of
the
[1783.
was
the
made by
rising
Crown.
" All
Europe
is
for us,"
was
language of Franklin.
Vergennes gave a
serious,
ment, as
more freely to this magnanimous sentipower is so well known that his motive canIt is with this conviction that the King not be suspected.
his
orders
me
treaties,
His Majesty
less ex-
to be sequestered,
and renewed
his
;
were
open
tions
by England of vessels laden with the products of the North American colonies. This reply was of the fifteenth of July. Eight days after, Vergennes read a memoir to
the
King
in council.
He
discountenanced
in the
his
monarch's
United States
The
to
must be
development
and
if not,
;
the vices of
that in
them a
vital injury
any event, the continued domination of Canada and of her adjacent possessions by Great Britain must ever prov'e a source of discord with the colonies, and a security
to France.
The
spirit
* Flassan,
vi.
146.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
St. Ildefonso,
413
reached
his eyes.
He was
Paris,
On the
and
his colleagues
and
five
days
after,
on the most
liberal
;
terms
that he
meant
to support that
independence
war ensued, " he should not expect any compensation from them on that account, nor pretend
that, if
that he acted wholly for their sakes, since, besides his real
good
ished
will to
them and
their cause,
it
was manifestly
the
by
their separation
from her."
were assured that the conclusion of only wanted the concurrence of Spain. An
Three weeks later, to decide the mind of Spain, the King of France addressed his uncle Charles a letter, prepared by Vergennes, but copied by himself.* He mentioned the secret aid furnished, and that, sooner or later, England would avenge herself; that she had seized several vessels,
to restore,
his
and that
force,
he had strengthened
and
naval
* Flassan,
vi.
169.
414
THE REPUBLIC.
[1786
which had increased his ill humor. " The destruction of the army of Burgoyne, and the confined situation of Howe," he stated, " had wholly changed the face of
affairs.
America
side.
is
triumphant
England
is
overthrown."
called for on
A
every
"
was
From
and
will
offices.
They
upon
This force as if there had been no war. Engagainst have we complaints the and consideration, land being notorious, we have decided to form a treaty with the colonies to prevent a reunion with the metropous with as
much
lis."
by
The plan of
each nation should commerce with the other on the footino- of " natives :" for the mutual protection of this commerce, with the exception of certain articles enumerated for the retention by France of her existas contraband
;
ing fisheries, with a stipulation that neither party should interfere with the fishing grounds of the other, on pain of
confiscation.
It
under any pretence possess herself of any of the territories then or lately under the dominion of Great Britain
on or near the North American continent, it being the declared intention of the United States, to have the sole
It
secured access, on
West
Indies as she might capture gave permission of free access, by the men-of-war and privateeers of either party,
to the ports of the other, excluding
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
its
415
own
to the
enemy of
in the
from duty,
islands,
ties
French
islands,
on molasses shipped to
on
articles in those
when
when
shipped to France.
this plan,
The
instructions
which accompanied
author-
commerce on
if
favored nation"
France objected
natives;"
edgment by France of
employment by England of
with a participation in them
in the reduction of the
fisheries,
West
were
ments
sioners
and
for
sissippi.
Measures were
the treaty
also taken to
form
treaties
with
Prussia, Austria,
and Tuscany.
By
in the original
plan
an
article
was
416
THE REPUBLIC.
functions
[1783.
by a convention
to grant one or
more free ports in Europe, and to continue the free ports which had been, or were then, open in the West Indies. The article as to molasses was objected to, but ultimately
permitted to remain, on the grant as an equivalent, that
all
to^
sugar-producing islands, should be free of duty ; that excluding France from possessing herself of any of the
the
territories or islands then or lately
was
A
if
was
also
formed.
common
tain,
North America.
end of
and direct
this alliance
was
commerce
northern
in the
them, and renounced, on the part of France, the possession of those islands
and of
all
the North
American
terri-
An
article
was
Ameri-
can commissioners, that no peace or truce was to be concluded with Great Britain by either party, without the
formal consent of the other
;
was made,
down
arms
until the
indepen-
shall
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
by
treaty."
It
417
all
tacitly assured
excluded
claim of com-
its
on the
fu-
part of the United States to France, of her present possessions in America, or those she
might acquire by a
to the
United States, of
their liberty,
and the
conquests they should have made from Great Britain during the existing war, as the same " shall be affixed at the
was
between France
and England,
was
to take effect
that occurrence.
was not to take effect, " until the cessation of the war between the United States and England shall have ascertained their possessions."
may
deemed conform-
been anticipated by the United States, was presented to the American commissioners the first time on the eighteenth,
ary,
was assented to on the twenty-seventh of Januand signed on the sixth of February, seventy-eight,
this treaty, as
The terms of
parties,
was
to
to France.
The motives
418
to
it
THE REPUBLIC.
on her part were to abridge the power of a
[1783.
rival, to
The
first
to excite jeal-
commercial
equivalents.
But the
third,
although
it
appeared to be a
her favor.
in
She
dependence
her
West
India possessions.
Whenever
the independence
it was not would ever again be at hazard, the guarantee of France would be nominal, while that of the French islands would be ope-
rative in
republic,
it
and might
The
closed to Spain.
The
intelligence
primary motive, he
stated,
was
England
.
To
and honor of
his
gan
to escape,
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON".
open procedure.
419
have waited the ad-
fer this
He would He
him,
The
was evidently
dissatisfied
disin-
that the
To
pacts,
derive the
England
Silas
Deane was
recalled,
the
was accredited
as
Lee
Adams no
to
provision
envoy was
made.*
This neglect
the
more
be observed, as
of
Adams was
some other
ministers but one at this court." f Being neither recalled nor commissioned elsewhere, Adams returned to America.
It
to
commune
but with one diplomatic agent, and that agent he preferred should be Franklin.
And
knew
to
In the enthusiasm
of the moment, her taste for splendor and for show joyed
in the contrast of his plain, simple attire, for he
* Life of Adams,
281.
was a
i.
"
He was
whoUy
Adams
to
Samuel Adams.
Dip.
420
spectacle.
tels
THE REPUBLIC.
the boudoirs of
[1783.
and
women
his air
of fashion.
There
white hair
of contemplation, his
his
saw
that
among
people to have
;
communed with
"one must be an idol to lead' opinion, and that a man of popularity is more powerful His genius gave him high place than power itself" among the savans, his experience taught him prudence
him strength on earth
that
were too free for his acceptance,* and that to appear Vergennes soon peneto yield, was his way to conquer. trated the character of this distinguished man, gained him
did not
Paris
feel,
by a deference he
Philadelphia.
would increase
favor at
Some of
this
commended
The
instruc-
United States.
American
tion of
on the banks of Newfoundland, and the reducBut they also expressly enthings to take care not to
make any
en-
until the
Vergennes concealed the intended mission of Gerard moment of his departure, and even withheld the
Indignant at the con-
ii.
271.
.Et. 26.]
HA'MILTOiT.
421
No
it
found.
is
tion of
was offered in Congress that Franklin should be recalled. It was defeated by the vote of ten States. A few days after, Lee apprised Vergennes that Hartley, a member of Parliament, was inciting suspicions of the policy of
France, and that British agents had been dispatched to
the United States.
reply.*
correspondence
in
ensued
between
light.!
them,
an unpleasant
The
re-
was a request on the part of Izard to be recalled, which was acceded to. The failure of the conciliatory bills to shake the purpose of the United States, was followed by a fruitless attempt by the Court of St. James to open a negotiation with Franklin. France was alarmed, and her envoy declared at Philadelphia, that
it
long as
his
Great Britain
master.
shall not
was then given by Congress, would not conclude a peace or truce with the common enemy, without the formal consent of their ally, and that any assertions or insinuations
explicit assurance
An
and dishonor.
* Dip. Cor.
ii.
145-157.
\ Ibid. 416-424.
422
THE REPUBLIC.
who had been
[17S3.
at
an
to
Vergennes.
he would
princi-
to
America." *
The instructions stated to have been given to Gerard, show a strict adherence to the policy proposed in the early memoirs of his cabinet to Louis. To thwart any intrigues of England with Congress, and to obtain an
early ratification of the recent treaties he had signed,
He was
demands of
subsidies
the military operations should be combined with those of the fleet under D'Estaing
;
to avoid
any
The motive
to this caution
was
that laid
down
in
England
by the
presence of a formidable
sensible of the value of
enemy
to render
them more
France, t
own
To
announced
to
195.
"
Introfliiction
i.
13, 14.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
assist in the deliberations
423
Madrid, to
and
in the conclusion
of a treaty.
report
was made
to
of February, seventy-nine.
ry,* that
proposed as a prelimina-
of government as of commerce, be acknowledged by Great Britain. This being done, the boundaries to be agreed, were defined nearly as subsequently established by the definitive treaty. The country was to be evacuated by the British forces. The right of fishing and of
curing
fish
was
to
The
free navi-
enumerated
articles, to
;
its
mouth,
was
be insisted and in case the allies of the United would agree to support them in such claim, Nova Scotia and its dependencies were to be ceded to the Unito
States
Conditional articles
the
Ber-
mudas and
set aside.
fisheries
The debate on
the
topics,
which the
During
and
was protracted
until July.
its
progress,
133.
424
dependence
edged
;
THE REPUBLIC.
shall
[1783.
tacitly
acknowl-
that she
treaty,
and
as to
the possessions to be insisted upon, that her engagements were conditional, and that her obligations did not com-
mence
until
discussion
with a caution against " far-fetched inductions, subject to and contradiction, tending to alter the funda-
mental system of the alliance." This was followed by a second urgent memorial on
the importance of the mediation of Spain, and of a decision
treaty.
conference was
held with a committee of Congress on the twelfth of Gerard stated, " that the court of London, showJuly.
ing
to
a reconciliation with
and
after a
war of
thirty,
and an
;
knowledgment, either
pendence only under
tacit or formal,
from
their
former
inde-
and
and
tacit
was suggested,
upon particular
acknowledgment."
necessity,
The
by
mediation to a happy
issue,
was enforced.
Congress
were also reminded, that proper terms should be offered to his Catholic majesty, in order to reconcile him perfectly
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
interest,
425
he should " drop the
to the
American
and
lest
mediation."
To
obviate these
difficulties,
a commission with
full
powers based upon the treaty with France was proposed. Congress thus admonished, resumed the consideration of
their ultimata.
After
much
debate, a division
was taken
seven States.
After various propositions as to the
fisheries,
it
was
ulti-
matum. The acquisition of Canada and of Nova Scotia was rehnquish'ed and a cessation of hostilities was to be agreed to upon the evacuation of the United States. " In all other matters," the envoy was instructed " to govern himself by the alliance between his most Christian Majesty and these States, by the advice of their allies, by his knowledge of our interests, and by his own discretion, in which we repose the fullest confidence."
;
As
were
the negotiation
was
to
Anxious
power aware
of the desire of Spain to repossess the Floridas, and doubtful of the extent of the treaty of alliance with
France on
this point.
to Spain, if wrested
Congress agreed to guarantee them from Great Britain, but insisted upon
and from the ocean. The question of this navigawas much debated, but it was exacted, and a motion
from
it
below
S. J.
426
THE REPUBLIC.
[1788.
was
to
to
be the guide.
No
privilege
was
to
be granted
The consented to in favor of Great Britain. right of fishing was to be in no case given up.
portance of
its
common
The
imto
France was
be induced
Should
Britain,
re-
Union was
to
be exercised to obtain
dress and Congress pledged themselves, that no treaty of commerce should be entered into, nor any commerce
be carried on with Great Britain, without an express stipulation on her part for the unmolested taking of fish in
the
American
seas
The
much
satisfied
To France
they
were of little interest. Having removed these obstacles to a peace with Great Britain, Gerard, feeling he had accomphshed his errand,
on the seventeenth of September took public leave of
Congress.
CHAPTER
The
XXXIII.
was
John Jay and John
to exclude Jay, then
Adams were
with England.
The
first
;
effort
was
President of Congress
and with
this
obvious intent, a
not be suspect-
Carolina,
who might
was defeated by the votes of all the members except four. These were the delegates from New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and one from South Carolina.* Adams and Jay were then placed in nomination. The next day a vote was taken, but no election was had, and the expedient of first choosing an envoy to Spain was resorted to. This was ordered, and Jay was appointed the following day to this mission. Thus he was removed from competition with Adams, and the latter was chosen
to negotiate with
England.
to
to
S. J.
U.
S. 51.
428
his
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
having " so generally fallen in with the policy of the Southern States, and of the French minister, by refusing to insist upon the fisheries, as a fundamental principle of
national independence, as to rouse in the
New
England
This statement
it
Jay,
is
true,
voted
right
England of a
as
an ultimatum,
being obvious,
Nova
had no right
to require
any purpose.
no
case,
But
as to requir-
common
right of fishing,
and a declaration,
peace,
it
that, in
by any treaty of
it
in
unison
The course of the members, seven excepted. f f vote indicate that the as to these miswould matter this
with
all
sions involved
no
Adams
was a concession to the wishes of his immediate friends. If there was an intrigue for this appointment, it was not
To please South on the part of the friends of Jay. Carolina, John Laurens was appointed Secretary to the
Legation, which place he declining, his father,
Henry
few days
after, the
was grandson of De la Moignon, chancellor of France, nephew of Malesherbes, and nearly allied to De Broglio showed it to have been
for he
a complimentary selection.
* Life of Adams, f N. H., K.
I
I. 3,
i.
He
recently had
filled
the
295.
4,
Peun.
Virginia
1.
"You
my name,"
Jay writes
'^
to Livingston,
"to a bad
D. C. 8-128.
Mt.26.]
HAMILTON.
429
which preceded the treaty of Tischen, Marbois being his secretary, who accompanied him to Philadelphia, and was
perhaps the more
In the
first
efficient person.
month of
the
new
envoy
announced
bring the
to
to a conclusion, the importance of commensurate exertions on their part, and the aids he proposed to furnish. A communication of the correspondence between England and Spain followed, showing the
failure of the mediation.
war
The
probability of an
armed
alleged
intervention
of other
from
all
uti possidetis
might govern
in
a forced peace.
An
assur-
ance was given, that France and Spain would make a very powerful diversion, and would exert themselves to
maintain and improve their
gress, in reply, stated their
naval
superiority.
Con-
measures to
dependence on
that of the
enemy
in the
American
seas,
fullest
set forth by the French ambasThese were, a precise and invariable boundary to the United States, as limited by the British proclamation
her pos-
crown
of Great Britain, and proper objects against which the arms of Spain may be employed for the purpose of making a permanent conquest for the Spanish crown."
430
THE REPUBLIC.
The
policy of acceding to these terms
[1783.
was enforced
by a statement, that France cannot deem the revolution which has set up the independence of these United States
as past all
lic
danger of unfavorable events, until his CathoMajesty and the United States shall be established " on
this
who had
The appointment
America, had placed before Congress a wide view of European affairs, was most welcome to him. He pro-
"I nounced it an acquittal "with much splendor."* " but Laurens, writes he nothing," to it compare could
Shakespeare's idea of Ariel, wedged in the middle of a
rifted
oak, for
to
was
sufficiently
sensible,
;
that
it
was
and pains an unhappy division in Congress were for side one me, that inform to taken enough were so that I Holland, to sending me to Spain, and the other
owing
was
tion
was only w;Aere." Thus elated, Adams reached Paris a few days after the recent conference with La Luzerne had taken place
at Philadelphia.!
during
his first
He
5,
may
safely build.
Nar-
row and
John
Bull, with
I
which
Bull,
I might, per-
was John
of a
have now no
;
much
John Bull
was John
Yankee
and such
"
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
it
431
though
commerce with
his
French influence to strengthen their parties, and to promote the purposes of private interest and ambition.J
How much
tion,
of
this feeling
was
were not
easy to decide.
There
is
little
vored Franklin
wary Vergennes.
He
left
him
aside,
still
addressed him-
who
consoled
Adams
by employing him as the scribe of the commission. His view of European affairs, presented to Congress on his return to America, was well adapted to its object
second mission.
He
cess of Gerard,
feeling of Congress.
their purposes
extolled
ancient
prejudices condemned.
Too much
pains," he remarked,
* 4 D. C. 275.
:):
t Ibid. 282.
to
me is
a distant bow, an
'
One
evening at court,
when
me
this
Ikrriblement
'
affiige
de
C'esi en Anffleterre,'
si
qu^on a donni
ce nam,
et il
par Vinfluence de
had
my tongue's
;
end to answer
'
'
Cest
suddenly,
if
he
is indiscreet, I will
sol
6 D.
C. 391.
432
THE REPUBLIC.
political
[1783.
but
this
was
to be
" This As to Great Britain, he pronounced strongly power loses every day her consideration, and runs
towards her
ruin.
Her
riches, in
sisted, she has lost with us, and never can regain.
She
think
re-
resembles the melancholy spectacle of a great widespreading tree, that has been girded at the root.
that every citizen, in the present circumstances,
I
who
was
between us and the English, and act, as if it never A sage and philanthropic conclusion On his second coming to Paris, he communicated into be." *
asking
*'
his
closing his
diate.
It
powers
reply until
it
be prudent to conceal
all,
his
above
to the court
of London." f
Information being received from Gerard of
cess in limiting the commission of
his suc-
prised
by Vergennes
official
and
his
quested "to take every necessary precaution that the British ministry may not have a premature knowledge of
his full
powers
to negotiate a treaty of
commerce."
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
433
by
his
new
The promise of an
an-
nouncement of his embassy and presentation at court was not fulfilled. He wrote Vergennes, complaining of
this omission, in the
who informed
Court Gazette were not usual, but that he would have them mentioned, if he wished, in the Mercury, and
enclosed the form of an article, stating that he had " been designated to assist at the conferences for a peace, when
that event shall take place!"
Adams
would
declared himself
" equally satisfy
countrymen."
This was not his actual feeling.
He
"
The
my
powers
is
my manner
I
followed
my own judgment,
by communicating, immediately after my arrival, to Lord George Germain, my full powers to treat both of peace
Hoping a change in the policy of the court, he was not prepared for a breach, but expressed his sense of the importance of the alliance, avowing his opinion, " that the commercial interests of England and America will for ever hereafter be incomFrench
patible
! !
and commerce."
"*
official employment, Adams thought he country by contributions to the Mercury, a gazette published under the surveillance of Genet, a
Thus, without
his
might serve
secretary in the Foreign office. Vergennes, disinclined to permit such a channel of communication to be open,
* 5 D. c. 104.
Vol. II. 28
434
caused
THE KEPUBLIC.
Adams
to
[1783.
his
lucubrations should be
difficulty.
Adams He
communicated a decision by Massachusetts to redeem, as recommended by Congress, the Continental paper at the
rate of forty dollars for one of silver.
in France.
who had given them credit. Adams sought to show that the measure did not bear Vergennes, moved by the seriously upon foreigners.
strangers
public voice, took the matter up warmly, addressed an
invective to
Adams, asked
his
his interposition
with Congress,
and announced
intention to
make
a representation
through Luzerne.
As
the procedure
faith,
a wise
Adams pursued
body
politic."*
as
an act of "justice
As
ought to be
really
is,
laid aside,
is
now
it
what
?
What
will
fetch at
market
And
demption."
made between
natives and
foreigners."
at the effrontery
and turpitude
curtly.
It
of vindicating such
his intention to
a measure, replied
this resolution,
was not
analyze
show
* 5 D. C. 214.
JEt. 26.]
HAMILTON.
435
French with the Americans, but he declared His Majesty's persuasion that Congress will " assuredly perceive that the French deserve
a preference before other nations
who have no
not, as yet,
treaty
acknowl-
edged
their independence."
Adams
chafed at
temporary unimportance.
his character.
It
Though burnAfter a
dressed Vergennes, setting forth at length the reasons in favor of opening his commission to that power. The
ing upon
French minister transmitted a long detailed reply, retortAdams his own avowal that he was as sure as
he was of
his
own
existence, that
England had
to
"
no
"
sin-
To
at
what purpose," he asked him, " communicate present powers which cannot be made use of
a peace
all,
?
them
until after
"
He
is
necessary, first of
from England an acknowledgment of the independence of America, and that acknowledgment must
to obtain
Enclosing
part, transmit
this reply,
he wrote him
" I shall,
on
my
my
Luzerne
gress
;
and
worthy some
atten-
Adams
Adams
could not be
silent.
436
sideration,
THE REPUBLIC.
when Vergennes,
[1783.
indisposed to altercation, an" that Franklin him, being the only person nounced to
who
States,
is
He
of
own
ing
well-founded dissatisfaction.
true, that
Mr.
Adams' proper business is elsewhere, but the time not become for that business, and having nothing else here wherewith to employ himself, he seems to have endeavored supplying what he may suppose my negotiations defective in.
He
thinks, as he tells
me
himself, that
Amerito
free
is
in
expressions of gratitude
more obliged to us than we to we should show spirit in our applications. her and that I apprehend that he mistakes his ground, and that this court is to be treated with decency and delicacy." * The action of Congress was significant. Having auFrance
; ;
it
his
powers and
upon the execution of them, was well founded ;" they had no expectations from the influence which
the people
a change of ministry
ures
sumptions
quences." f
or
their
probable
conse-
* 3 D. C. 164.
t 2 S. J. 393.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
Vergennes, Adams, on the day of
437
date,
dam.*
Dispatches from Jay were received late in the year.
They represented
were opened,
France f so
should
that
all
him
were not
fulfilled,
was
the policy of
make
to tho other.J
On
letter,
the fourth of October, Congress acted upon this and upon certain instructions from Virginia. They
insist
resolved unanimously to
outlet, if the
unlimited freedom of
and
" to
to this
to Jay, with a
it
No
every
progress was
proach to a direct
* D. C.
5,
made
307.
f Nov. 5, 1780.
Jay
know but
2
little
of
what
among you."
Jay's
Life,
i.
114.
1780.
||
I 7 D. C. 218-220.
S. J.
326.
438
pretext.
ister
THE REPUBLIC.
No
[1783.
was made to Jay, that no money Avas to be expected, " and that that which would have facilitated a far-advanced negotiation, was likely to produce no effect, in a great
measure through the undermining of some persons of rank
in France.''^ *
They
failed,
envoy was
at the
same time
would never be relinquished. foreign policy of the United States had been directed by a spirit in Congress worthy their cause,
the Mississippi
Thus
far, the
their country.
In the
was evinced toward any sacrifice of national interests. The minds of the brave yeomen amid disaster and disappointment were firm. Nor in the three most southern States, invaded and despoiled by the successive occupation of the enemy, were the hearts or the counsels of their gallant people
States north of the Potomac, no disposition
shaken.
different rule.
Re-
was her
legislature
abandoned RichIt
mond
on that subject.
was enclosed
Congress by Jefferson,
By
this
document, after
fund for the
and
sold as a
common
benefit of the
Union"
* 7 D. C. 363.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
it
439
which,
Virginia resolved,
sissippi
territory,"
every other and further demand should be ceded, if insisting on the same is deemed an impediment to a treaty with Spain."
In obedience to
instruction f to
this resolution,*
" that
Jay
to recede
on
on a
cession shall
degree of North latitude, and below the same, provided such be unalterably insisted upon by Spain ;" and
thirty-first
calls
it
"a
disgraceful proposition."
Debates
much
col-
\ 1
Mad.
66,
Madison says
and
" In
this
interests of Virginia,
and which
know
she has so
my
it is
we have no
the
of Virginia
Bland
to
Lee
is
to be seen.
Bland writes
"
letter
from Col.
you on the
It is
us by treaty.
ture will claim.
It is
It is
and
right.
Why
else
taken the
execution,
effect of
it
the exclusion ?
stijle
be carried into
would
the
As such were
In a
f,rst
Madison, App. to
vol.
i.
p. 21,
he says
moment
;
Mr. Jay."
a slight
inaccuracy
440
THE REPUBLIC.
is
[17S3.
provided a guarantee
latitude in
given of
its
common
was
Every
possible effort
to
The impolicy of
the conduct of Spain.
this
Though intended
was made known to her before the information of it reached the American envoy at Madrid. Convinced that this great object was secured, no motive existed to depart from the policy she had adopted. Nothing was promised or denied, but a clue was given to her purposes by the
observation of her prime minister to Jay, " that
affairs
all
these
peace than
now
particular
and even
would be
and
discernment,
until
all
efforts
proved
fruitless.
Two
in
loss
it
have forgotten
for
was a revolt of heretics. A few days after Congress had yielded in relation to the navigation of the Mississippi, the French ambassador transmitted to them a letter from his king, assuring them of his determination to assist them as far as his own wants and the extraordinary and enormous expenses of This communication was folthe war would permit. memorial lowed by a showing the extent of the proposed
* 2
S. J.
397.
negative.
New York
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
441
aids,
but announcing that the second division of the French army could not be expected that campaign. A second memorial was presented on the twenty-sixth
It
of May.
emperor of Germany as a co-mediator the pleasure it gave the king of France his refusal, neversire
the
theless, to
accept
it
his allies.
He
nounce through
the negotia-
French plenipotentiaries
fully
ministers,
mean time
days
It is
Two
envoy.
after,
of a marked character.
in
Apprehensive
lest
Adams, now
chosen,
in the previous
should interfere
month of December, minister to Russia, with the views of France, Vergennes felt
absolute control.
La Luzerne mentioned
the approval
by
the council of
442
It therefore
THE REPUBLIC.
appeared " to be at
is,
[1783.
least
that this
make
Still
they
promised to
He
then proceeded to
comment on
line
Adams.
He
He
on the use Adams thought he had a make of his powers to treat with Great Britain,"
if
observing, "
friendship
in the king's
and benevolence,
his inviolable
and of
in the
;
majesty
and after
giving him, in his instructions, the principal and most important outline for his conduct, they would order him,
"
The most
perfect indepenin-
Adams, and
all." He pressed Congress given to him " with all possible to have the instructions
dispatch,"
secret negotiation
Spain.
removing as far as
proposed mediators,
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
;
443
and urged
this as
will,
by
and
which
will not
admit of
any modification."
The importance
urged
;
that
Adams
and the
possibility of
his
being proposed
The great
object,"
La Luzerne
to obtain that
end was
to reduce
them."
Nor was
the urgent
At
her
relief.
The
upon
accept
were
first
acted
to
by an
instruction to
Adams
to
no
may effectually
of the treaties
treaties shall
form and
in
effect
and
which those
not be
* 2
S. J.
424.
444
France secured
that power.
TEE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
the
two
objects
motion was made to submit the questions of boundary to the judgment and prudence of the plenipotentiary. This motion failed. Another, in effect to adhere to the
previous instructions, also failed
the boundaries
gotiator.
;
was
He was
directed " to
make
upon
dential communications
all
make them
sensible
how much we
rely
upon
his majesty's
may be
To
this part
Mas" If
The next
was
given.
a difficulty should arise in the course of the negotiation for peace from the backwardness of Britain to make a
formal acknowledgment of our independence, you are at liberty to agree to a truce, or to make such other concessions as
for
;
may
we contend
The only
and provided that Great Britain be not left in posof any part of the United States."
session
Varnum, Bland, and Smith. Adams, and the large discretionof The imprudences ary powers conferred by these instructions, indicated the
necessity of a plural commission.
effect
resolution to this
was
offered,
but
was defeated
by
the
united
votes of
gates.
New
England,
New
iEx. 26.]
HAMILTON.
instructions, as passed,
445
to be
The
communicated
confidentially to the
commerce
so
the
The recent vote indicating reluctance to pass marked a censure upon Adams as would be done by
association with
insisted
At
his
pru-
govern himself by
ojnniony
it
was resolved
to re-
In the
instance,
to
forthwith chosen
when
the
com-
mission
was
filled
and Jefierson.
The motive
of France would thus seem to have ceased, and a reconsideration of the clause to that effect
Massachusetts,
The Rhode
affirmative
Island,
Connecticut,
due to
was given
every
tions as to boundaries
to former instruc-
desires
and expecta-
we
think
it
you up by
446
THE REPUBLIC.
obstacles were
still
[1783.
Two
in
the
way
of Vergennes.
to St. Petersburg
secretary to the
new
commission.
to carry into effect the direction
The next
treaty of
thing
was
Britain.
his instructions
reservations, gave
was
by a commercial treaty she could avoid an express acknowledgment of independence, and in this mode the whole object of the recent derogatory instructions to be governed by France, would be
avail herself of these powers, as
defeated.
To
prevent
this result, a
was
absolute and peremptory directions upon any other subject than the two essential
articles
above mentioned.
You
secure the
direct,
manner
as circumstances
may
and
re-
may
For
this purpose,
you are
to
make
communications upon
all subjects
King
of France
govern yourselves hy
and
opinion, endeavoring in
make them
sen-
how much we
may
be necessary
" If a difficulty should arise in the course of the negotiation for peace, from
the backwardness of Britain to
make a
to
truce, or to
make such
for
;
other conces-
may
we contend
and provided
possession of
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
to.
447
resorted
Madison was
first
in
frequent communication
French
pro-
He moved
Adams
vided, that
by Congress
their
of com-
merce
explicitly
to the Uni-
ted States."
The
it
had been
edgment of independence.
quired *
it,
as a preliminary article to
any negotiation,
Thus
this
all
of
exercising his
been prevented.
tion,
mores-
by which this previous acknowledgment of independence was waived, and it was to become merely an article of
treaty.
This
it.f
last
was
to
withdraw
powers
to
form
448
a treaty, and
to
THE REPUBLIC.
at the instance of
[1783.
powers granted
Great Britain,
it
to
would have
felt
saw cause of
to fore-
apprehension.
Adams was
in
it
was impossible
opened be-
tween them.
These were
to be prevented.
Amsterdam, Adams suggested the nnportance of maintaining an official agent there, and he
his
On
arrival at
was empowered to negotiate a loan he soon after intimated the advantages to be derived from a resident embassy at the Hague. The suggestion was approved, and he was commissioned as minister plenipotentiary to the
;
United Provinces.
As early as seventeen hundred and seventy-eight, the regency of Amsterdam had evinced a disposition to enter into commercial regulations with America. They applied
to the States-general for a
convoy
commerce,
in order to
ed
effect,
Soon
Sharpe.
Department
Madison seconded by
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
Paul Jones entered the
M9
Texel with several
mand
prizes.
of
He was
there,
While
minister,
This demand was not acceded to, but Jones was again commanded to sail. Having refused, with great indignation,the offer from
the French ambassador of a letter of marque, he departed.
But a short time elapsed, when a plan of a treaty with was framed by the authorities at AmThis drew an angry remonstrance from EngMeasures of defence were taken by that city
hostili-
sterdam.
land.
and
St. Eustatia
this
was captured.
to
Adams
resolved to
seize
upon
moment
make an
impression.
He
ad-
Sweden, announcing the resolution of Congress concurring with the regulations of the " marine treaty," and at
the
Duke de
answer
same moment asked of the French ambassador, the la Vauguyon, to aid him. The former did not
his letters
;
in-
memorial to the
States-general,
and urged
his
He was
In a conference between
La Luzerne and
his
Congress, they
were informed
that,* "
duke gave him no assistance on that occasion, knowing the application would have no favorable issue."
The perseverance
of
* 3 S. J. 35.
Vol.
IL29
450
THE EEPUBLIO.
He
[1783.
stated
armed neutrahty,
the hos-
acts of
his
king that a
man" *
it
should be sent
to
Holland with
powers
that
would likewise be
and as
it is it
mation,
would be proper
to
inconsistency
more
successful.
Had
Franklin, as
to the
American resident
at the
nor the
able man,"
New
England.
The
in
original instructions to
Adams
treaty,
treaties
and
by
make a
vious appointment of
Adams, with
conform
to the treaty
* 2
S. J.
466. July
23, 1781.
^T.26.]
land,
HAMILTON.
shall
451
conclude either
truce or peace with Great Britain without the formal consent of the whole
first
In
all
other matters, he
to
was
with
confer upon
manner
his most Christian majesty's minister " at the Hague.* While these measures were taken in America, Adams was invited by Vergennes to Paris, to consult upon the
American
that
be signed
conjointly with
be defined.
The comments of
the
American minister
to such a separate
allies,
would be no objection
demanded) of the mediators. The conjoint signawas approved, but the proposed armistice or a truce, as suggested by Vergennes, was objected to, except under two express preliminary conditions the continuance of
(unless
ture
* 2
S. J.
472August
16, 1781.
" The
letter
announcing
my
arrival I
by
until the
when he
said
He broke
read the
letter,
and
he was sorry he could not see Mr. Adams, but he was obliged to go into
Adams
'
M. de Rayneval,' who
After dinner
I called
6 D. C. 92.
6D.
C.
100. July
11, 1781.
452
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
acknowledgment of inde-
pendence by Great
Britain,
But the great question was stated to be, the acknowland " as the United States edgment of independence
;
their
independence
it
shall
be
if
dis-
the
would
" lay
down,
as a preliminary, the
sovereignty of the United States, and admit their minister to a congress," a treaty
The
Adams
as agent of the
United States, represented the necessity of certain preliminaries being adjusted before the
American minister
place as soon as
opened.
not to countenance
it
be
in the
No
other correstate-
subject, but
from the
ment of La Luzerne to Congress, it appeared that England insisted upon the dependence of America being pre-
iEx. 26.]
HAMILT01N-.
and that thus there would be no
453
possibility of
established,
Adams
visit
the
Vauguyon, observing
it
upon him
his
with
most confidential manner excellency, and that he had " made it a law to
to confer in the
Vauon
guyon waited
and informed
to the visit
Adams
no objection
any
official
me-
morial had been the subject of deliberation, and what answer he should communicate to Congress." The meand after some morial was referred for consideration
;
delay
was was
inevitable
gratified
France
affairs,
by a public acknowledgment.
letter
During these
interesting
moments, he received a
tary of foreign
his
views of the
Adams,
i.
effects
of
this
measure,!
Yet
to
see Life of
390.
Adams
Congress.
6 Dip.
it
Corres. 258.
became a
The
prince, therefore,
bound
me
with decency
at least,
would be criminal in
them
to treat
I
and printed,
me or the subject with indecency. If it had not been presented am very sure I could not have long resided in the republic and
;
know
not.
They were
lent,
and intimidated, and the Anglomanes were so insothat no man can say that a sudden frenzy might not have been excited
so disheartened
among
454
THE REPUBLIC.
his firmness.
[1783.
It also discloses
was
allies,
loss
republic.
my
memorial, M.
trial.
This contributed
fur-
ther to raise the spirits of the good people, and soon after the burgomasters of
committee
and
aU which together
among
and an essential
display of the national bravery indispensable for the honor of the navy, and
little
merit
none
man
ever expressed to
it
me
it,
hension that
On
letters expressed
than
it
deserved.
The King
of
a most
it,
illustrious honor,
by quoting one
of the most
;
maand
terial sentiments in
in
Germany has
it
more remarkable,
it
the greatest
" As
my
ol
Versailles,
who can
ence in bringing
to mention
;
De
Bay ?
Another thing
that in the
ought
of
have a
me
month
June
last,
to treat with
him
at Madrid.
You may
all
;
pos;
my
is
imagination and
called
carry
me
extraordinary lengths
upon
to justify
around.
it is
is,
harm
that
probable
it
possible
it
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
it
455
A man
jus-
actions,
and
It
easy
glorieux;
il est
plein de lui-
meme
il
ne
,-'
sort,
sacrificed to very
and hold
but wise
men know
Soon
after I
Due de
la
which
produced
us in fonniug a connecsubject,
which
I shall
it
With him
now
and with him, thank God, I have hitherto preserved a perfectly good un-
him
tune to
make
commenthat the
tary upon the conversation I had with the Duke, and his opinion upon that
occasion.
How
it,
my memorial,
How soon
r^
Was
tion,
ter,
not the American memorial fuU of matter for the Emperor's contempla-
when he was
at Ostend,
Was
it
not
full of
mat-
calculated to stunulate
him
France con-
Was
France
to finish
wo
If this
is,
it
undoubtedly
by putting
sibility of
this
Repubhc more
in the
my memowas worth
rial is
surely
it
the while.
" The period since the fourth of May, 1781, has been thick sown withgood
events, all springing out of the
456
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
my
memorial.
The memorial
;
of
M. Van Berckel
the
Amsterdam
;
their attack
Oampo
to treat with
Mr. Jay
his
new
barrier fortifications
;
and
his
most
liberal
and sublime
ecclesiastical reformation
reproach to the King of England for continuing the war, in the very words of
my
memorial
these
too sublime and decisive proofs of the prosperity and glory of the
American
it
"
By comparing
facts,
dates,
it is
had some
influence in producing
some of them.
When
things
to see
how
ought to go, and are going, a small publication, holding up these objects in a
clear point of view, sometimes sets a vast
machine
! '
in
motion at once,
like the
springing of a mine.
'
What a
dust
we
raise
wheel.
whole
The
crecy.
may
be
all
com-
may
say, if
he can, that
this
in producing
any part of
CHAPTER XXXIV.
The
Dana,
policy which dictated the recent resolution as to
is
by him of
it
his
commission to
him
to
communicate
it
to
Vergennes, and
to dis-
whether
would be proper
thither.
close his
powers
and ob-
proceeded
of exposing
his
States, if he
to
Dana, convinced that it was the policy of France not render the United States " independent " by new allies,
proceeded to Russia as a
common
it
traveller.
" as a leading
and capital
and
* S. J.
iii.
31.
458
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
On
who
his
As
at last
tied
down by
his
and con-
vinced
that, alone
and unsustained,
reception would
be refused
he
of Europe.
This letter of
Dana was
referred to a committee, of
which
Madison
was chairman.
commerce
he
With
this view,
moved
that
Dana
removed
That
the primary object of his mission to the court of Russia the acquisition of
new
to this
country in an extensive
little
present
it
and
when
two
as
may
That
ment hereafter of
the principles
upon which
that inter-
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
459
be most advantageously couducted, congress would wish any treaty now formed to be of temporary
course
may
That
in
this
made more
this
matters he
insist
upon exact
As
it is
payment of any
tion failed.
been
stipulated, this
mo-
On
making any propositions for a treaty with Russia unless Dana was pre-committed and if so, to limit it to
to decline
;
of presents.
This
to
was
by Elsworth,
The
been raised
by Hamilton.
He
offered as an
:
amendment
this
important declaratory
resolution
on the
liberal basis
of a mainpri-
and of the
460
vileges of
ture, to
THE REPUBLIC.
commerce, yet they are unwilling,
to a
[1783.
at this junc-
become a party
confederacy which
interests of the
may
hero-
compUcate the
;
United States
if
and, therefore,
such a proit
not yet
made
in this business as
it
may make
dis-
honourable to recede,
is
no further
measures
may
ment was
referred,
and controverto
sies
of European nations,"
was inexpedient
renew
the
powers of Dana.
It
approved the
liberal principles
of that confederacy,
any
stipulations
amounting
to a recognition of the
accompanying them by
contracting parties
by arms."
the
Thus
it is
seen
instance
an evidence of the
wisdom of this resolution, that each of the parties to the armed neutrality entered into engagements within thirteen
years after
its
of
it.
France was
rious
Vaby La
* Madison, vol.
He
the
merely refers to the secret journal, and adds that the passage relating to
in,
commerce with
^T.26.J
HAMILTON".
461
Luzerne, the objects of which were to prepare congress for such concessions as
" for every state"
it
to require.
In
as to the matter of
said, " the interests
he
States, require to
be as long as possible"
They were
sub-
Massachusetts
upon
was then prepared by Madison,f containing to the American commissioners. By this report the previous territorial limits were to be insisted upon. As the common right of fishery was an attribute of sovereignty, France was urged to obtain a stipulation in favour of it, but if not attainable, by no means to surreport
new instructions
render
it.
It
ment
any such
stipulation
not,"
it
of
his
whether the
resto-
may
not produce
Many among
sides the
To Madison,
1,
Carroll,
and Lovell.
in
t Vol.
department of state.
462
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
And
tions
this
it
limiting the
power
This report was amended,* and on the eighth of January following was laid before the house.
that the fisheries
Having admitted
instructed
were not
that,
States
by
them not
to de-
of their desires and expectations, excepting only the independence of the United States and their alliance with
But
in order to
fully sensible
made
to
him
likely to fall
The
ries
objects
were then
stated.
They were
the
fisheries
the exclusion of
any provision
motive, that
it
enemies and
rivals, "
Congress,"
it
and
* 3 S.
J.
151 1782.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
463
any
a relaxation in
this point
may
The views of
extent of their
French ministry, and the nature and influence, are also shown in a despatch from
the
on the thirteenth of March, seventeen hunIt stated " that a delegate from dred and eighty-two.* congress, lately arrived in Carolina, has, it is said, been
Philadelphia,
chosen governor.
He
of most influence in of
last,
who
me
that
this
known
and
this
had given
to
and
I believe I
may
assure you,
upon
is
ap-
as to the fisheries,
and suggested,
as a
means of preventing
* Madison observes
and
he
vsfas
no stranger
ous."
Madison Papers,
vol. 1, p. 531.
it
which
in
acknowledged
to be his,"
gentleman employed
464
ministers, that the
THE REPUBLIC.
Newfoundland
instructions
;
[1783.
fisheries
have been
in-
cluded in the
new
rights,
and without
they
Great Britain.
whom
one
may
and the
The advocates for peace are those who live in the country. The inhabitants of towns do not wish for it but it is a happy
;
circumstance that
gress and
the
among
beam
either
The
mined the
British ministry to
renew
tiate directly
letter*
was
ad-
with Lord North, suggesting, as general grounds of a proposed negotiation tending towards peace under
structions, that " the question of
liberal con-
dependence or indepen-
may
be easily got
is
not
t 3 D. C. 284.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
object
465
to have
to
was represented
been
States
and thus
overture
An
Cliolmondelly
and a
letter
general peace.
by
whom
by
an interview was had with Franklin and Verthe allies for a general peace
A
in
similar overture
it
was
at the
which
was
He
acknowFranklin,
be
them
to
acknow-
ledge
it
expressly.
Referring to a former
letter,
Adams
insisted
when
mean
that
we
should
insist
upon such an
the
in
the treaty.
If they
this is
acknowledgment enough
His
;
Grenville.
first
commis-
was merely
to treat with
France
to "
powers
the United States in the first instance, and " not as" a condition of
treaty.
At
this
moment
the
* April
14, 1782.
Vol.
1130
466
up.
THE REPUBLIC.
Fox and
his friends,
[1783.
who had
Lord
had opposed
it,
took the
first
Acting upon
house of lords, " that whenever parliament should acknowledge the independence of America, the sun of England's
glory
was
this
set forever."
As
vital question in
cir-
the negotiation,
cumstances.
It
When
those instructions
were
i-eceived
by him,
in his let-
he
observed,
and
it
" I
will
not
less
decided approval of
this
it
commission was
expressed by
Adams
he accepted
it
claring that he
that
it
thought "
powers of Europe, and must be more satisfactory people of America than any former one."t
What
France were,
it
is
not
easy to judge.
ral friend
He
was
the natu-
of the United States, America the natural friend of France ; that England was the natural enemy of France,
and therefore of the United States."J But he also stated, " that to form immediate commercial connections with that
* 3 D. C. 236.
I
t 6 D. C.
160-2. October
4, 1781.
5 D. C. 105.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
Europe which ever has been, and with
little
457
variais
half of
Bourbon,
fundamental
maxim of
that system of
American
the
politics
which
beginning of
this war.''*
He avowed
wa-
of American independence
impossible;"! ^^^
l^e
is
groundless,
is
ridiculous, is
also
it to this hour, had powers acknowledging the independence of America, as England had been."J
France, from
his first
observation of
been
as averse to other
When
and
these
instructions
acknowledged
marked,
nity of
"
his readiness to
As an American,
an interest
it
in the dig-
my
difficult
me
to
He
admitted
it
the "gratitude
to
France, that
would probably be
arms of the
from a
station,
where, in character of
"on
whom
he really thought
This
let-
to
be dependent."
was dated
in
* 7 D. C. 255.
4 D. C. 292. D. C. 451.
t 6
D. C. 509.
468
one.
It
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
consequence of
was followed by another, asking permission, in ill health, and because no prospect existed
visit either
as to the Mississippi,
where
this negotiation
was
to
be conducted.
;
Other motives
is
may
have influenced
their decision
but
it
to
had
expressed as to
mination.
had weight
in this deter-
The
by
the
re-
ambassador of France,
He
many
by other nations
shall diminish
until after
a peace,
lest
we
dependence on her
be the
first
Yet
we
their as well as
all
our reasonable
by a peace
for that he
would
Having received an
Jay soon
triotism to act
invitation
from Franklin
to join him.
where he had
the pa-
upon
his
On
on the
Adams
by
the
uncommon
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
of the enemy
s
469
remaining in
vigilance
rica.* f
cruisers,"
Ame-
The
British minister
had
in the interval
employed agents
They reached
fail.
tempt
to inveigle the
These overtures alarmed Vergennes. J He saw that the capture of Yorktown had placed England and the United
States in a position wdiich must result in peace.
control
tion,
its
How
to
terms,
wearied as
was with him the only remaining quesFrance was with the continued demands
for aid.
still
the seat
It
was important
to thwart
any attempts
state of
my family,
it,
nor could
I expose
to the
to be
interest, in
new model-
much
to
Works,
"
The
this
morning," Madison
In an evening of promis-
my
the British court, and the good faith of our ally, displayed
tJve attempt of the former to
seduce the
latter,
made known,
in
some form
He
said he
me
which
was done.
mention
this,
that you
may
ments contained
in this publication."
M?d. 131
?
141.
It
This was suggested by propositions peace called by Madison an " insidious step." may be asked, Did England form the alhance agains,
it ?
herself
Was
470
to transfer
it
THE REPUBLIC.
elsewhere.
the
[1783.
With
this
nication
was made by
of foreign
aftairs, calling
upon
who
;
Europe
itself
to these,
and that
tion should he in
Americar*
result. A. reso-
declared, in case
such overtures should be made, that " congress will not depart from the measures which they have heretofore taken
for preve7iting delay,
in confidence
jesty."
and
in concert
mean
time, reIt
to
which
it
was
referred.
was
presented to congress,
ded
in the
Madison.
to'
was pushed," Madison wrote " Randolph, with the expected earnestness, but was parried,
will
issue, I believe, in
and
t
v. 1, p. 159.
May
31,
1782. 3
S. J. 138.
Madison Papers,
"In my
end
last I
given to France over the American ministers had been patried, and would
probal)ly
in
an adoption of your
report.
It
was parried by a
substitute
reporting witliout
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
in
471
French envoy
letters
on
De Vergennes, were
on the one hand
read
efforts
success, if
May
and twenty-eighth
it
was now
evi-
on
this continent, to
efforts.
be attended to
tions
when
the negotia-
were entered
that congress
were themselves
and rigour, and those of convenience and compliance, which depended on the good or bad situation of affairs that though the circumstances of the allies were very
promising, such events might happen as might
advisable to adopt the part of moderation.
make
it
The
necessity
called
on
to
and that
if
any
the
tlie
Madison
to
Edmund
Randolph.
Madison Papers,
160.August
20, 1782.
472
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
were sufficiently empowered to receive tiiem. This communication was referi-ed to a larger committee.
Their report, after expressing the utmost confidence in the assurances and good offices of France, declared,* that
" considering the territorial claims
be successfully employ-
ed to obtain a
rights.
sufficient provision
Having avowed,
" that
any claim of
will
meet with
reignty of the individual states," but of the wanton depredations of the enemy, they express a further trust, that
" the circumstances
of the
allies
at the
negotiations for
with the
spirit
by his majesty. {
The wishes of
the king of
this
by
his ministry,
On
the twenty-
to treat in pursu-_
ance of
Vergennes gave
" that
it
names
effect
signified
that an
acknowledgment,
in-
be the
it
would not be
rea-
* October 3, 1782.3 S.
t This report
Carroll.
J.
243.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
He
473
urged
them would be a
tacit
admittance of
it.
acknowledgment of
it.
Adhering
to this opinion,
this
course
it
opinion
he considered
by
France
tacit recogni-
sufficient
without weight.
was another which could not have been Whatever policy might have been pre-
no alternative consistent with the honour of the counbut an open, explicit, preliminary acknowledgment
try,
of
its
independence.
the suspicions
this point
waive
had produced.
previous occasions,
when he knew
on the part
must be
his
insisted upon.
That
a he had
the
advantages in
favour, so
practised
if
The
474
signed, was, a
THE REPUBLIC.
desire to
[1783.
make
it
an
article
minister
a general
peace."
were unwilling
engagements
not to cease
cured.
to continue the
The United States were under no war for the promotion of the
independence was
se-
views of Spain.
The
British
on the
Bri-
but
if that
had been
tish nation
American
territory, or to obtain
advantages from
a nation.
to
monarch
induced a belief,
Acting upon a
full
view of
his position,
;
Jay apwho,
to
prised
Oswald of his
remove them,
disclosed to
him
Guy
Jaj-
in
any negotia-
countrymen
as independent
by Great
A
of
powers
Vergennes remained
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
to a treaty
475
that
ment previous
it
was sufficient for the United States to be treated with on the ground of equaUty as other nations were, but insisted that an exphcit acknowledgment of independence in the treaty was "very necessary," to prevent future claims. The reply of the British ministry to Oswald proceeded on the idea of an acknowledgment as an
of treaty.*
article
would be
sufficient.
and thus implying that America was not then independent, was embodied in a letter from Jay to Oswald, which was submitted to Franklin, who disapproved it, lest it might
possibly be productive of future embarrassment, and as
After weigh-
Jay gave it
to
Oswald.
declare that
;
he
an ex-
The
fixed pur-
of Spain, a conference was held with their envoy at Paris. In this conference, the claims of Spain having been set
forth.
a copy of
if
He
Vergennes,
who was
but Ray-
* 8 D. C. 143.Jay's
Life, v.
P- 144.
t 8 D. C.
476
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
Having ascertained
and that Rayneval had proceeded secretly to London, there was enough to awaken the suspicions of any prudent minister. These suspicions were confirmed by the
Jay of the contents of the recent despatch and on the following day he sent a secret Marbois, of agent to England, to represent the absolute necessity of a
disclosure to
preliminary acknowledgment of independence, of a mutual participation in the fisheries and in the navigation of the
Mississippi being conceded,
and that
it
was the
policy of
France to postpone this recognition.* This communication had the intended effect. A commission! to Oswald, " to
negotiate with commissioners vested with equal powers
The
points
now
to
The
entertained
by Jay
France and
of the
The importance of obtaining the alHance and aid Spanish ministry was such as to have led him to
have been made of the navigation of the Mississippi, as an^ inducement to such an alliance. But when Spain had, in
order to promote her
own
when
tion,
and
to
her engagements as to
;
aid,
every induce-
ment
a
would render
* 8 D. C. 165.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
his
477
instruc-
to Spain, he of-
own
responsibihty annexed
if its
this
offer."
Cir-
to this,
which had a
On
the cap-
ture of Pensacola, Spain, instead of providing in the capitulation that the British troops should not serve against the
New- York. Similar terms were granted der of the Bahama islands.
at
in the surren-
unjustifiable interruption of
Havana
American
of Spain, no
many
of them captured.
But the
seized
who
took possession of
it
with
its
dependencies, and
his catholic
name of
ma-
as a formal
assertion of her
by Madison,) not
to insist
upon the
to the risk, if
article
* 8D.C.211.
478
first requisition.
THE REPUBLIC.
It
[1783.
was amended on
stipulations in conse;
and he was
If the
Madrid
to Vergennes.
This
catholic
New Orleans
she
and Mexico
was determined
possessions
to
;
make
" that
between
means,
if
their
would
;
find
the
attachment, than in employing " her" influence in the United States to divert their views from the navigation of the
Mississippi.!
expatiated on the rights of Spain to a large tract of country east of the Mississippi, as conquests
from England,
re-
remarked
quered, that
nations of Indians,
was the territory of free and independent whose lands could not be claimed by
She then proposed a longitudinal
ern territory.
"
The extravagance of
+ Life of Jay, vol.
1, p.
this line"
was
indi-
*Aug.
1,
1782.
139.
8 D. C. 150.
tEt. 26.]
HAMILTON".
479
was
sion,
reserved.
the discus-
urged Jay again to treat without any exchange of powers with D'Aranda, and subsequently submitted to
at length the
claims of
of another arbitrary
and
left in
question
These sug-
were considered
which had
determined *
De
at
Grasse to withdraw
feet,
when
the
enemy were
our
reduced either
New York
The
States,
intimation by D'AranJay expressed negotiation. the commence da of a wish to his readiness when their powers should be exchanged.
Oswald's
commission.
Upon an
D'Aranda inquired whether Jay had not been apprised of his having been authorized by the prime minister of
Spain.
He
admitted
it,
commissions.
Veras
same manner
with France
deny
the independence
and proposed that a conference should be held without saying a word about it, stating that an acknowledgment
of
it
effect
Jay
3D.C.
355.
480
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
his treat-
same occasion, Rayneval urged the adoption of the concihatory Hne he had proposed, and the advantage of placing the Indians on each side of it under the protecthe
tion of the respective sovereigns.
far as these
On
Jay answered,
it
that as
demands
observed, " that the Spanish prime minister had not un-
his ignorance
A reply
that left
it
not
difficult to
con-
by
whom
That Spain should have sought these advantages, might have been anticipated from the policy of that nation.
How
France could have sustained the proposed mutilation according to an arbitrary line, involving a principle by
which
it
east,
it is
difficult to
when
American
all
By the
This,
treaty of Paris,
the
region claimed by
by
charter, she
had
Thus
was held previous to the revolution, and thus under the_ same limits it (by the revolution) devolved upon those who
had acquired the sovereignty of
States; she had
;
this
country.
by
claims
she had
by treaty guarantied
the possessions
which war,
between Spain and England, precluded all pretensions on the part of Spain by right of conquest. Immediately after the commission was received by Os-
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
481
wald, the commissioners entered upon the negotiation, with an express agreement on each part, that it should not
be disclosed to France.
October, and
It
commenced on
of that month,
the
first
of of
on the eighth
articles,
independence of the United States, their boundaries were defined as prescribed in the original ultimatum of seventeen hundred and seventy-nine.
The
this
right of fishing
and
of curing
rejected
fish at the
by congress, was granted. The navigation of the Mississippi was declared to be forever free and open to both nations, and the citizens and subjects and ships of each nation were to enjoy the same protection and privileges in each other's ports
merce, duties, and charges, as were enjoyed by native subjects, saving to the chartered trading companies of
rights.
The decision of the British cabinet upon these articles was not received until the twenty-third of October, when it was stated that objections arose as to the extent of the
boundaries and the absence of any provision for the
to confer
tories,
upon which, a person was deputed from Lonon the twenty-sixth* of October,
don.
Three days
after,
Adams
taining.
Adams
but
it is
when
whom
it
belongs.
Adams
to Livingston, 6
D. C. 436.
Vol.
1131
482
THE REPUBLIC.
resuming the negotiation, an
effort
[1783.
On
was made
to con-
The
by
all
the
territories
comprehended
They contended
that
Nova
all
claimed
and go-
all
crown.
to,
But the
limits originally
were
com-
acknowledged.
The
and a
were the
restitution,
The former of
these
It will
be
re-
corded to the honour of England, that it was the first insisted upon and the last relinquished, and relinquished not
of choice, but because the British government were
fied that
fulfil
satis-
substitute
was
to
inserted
recommending
No
were
to
be per-_
mitted, and
tinued.
legal
existing prosecutions
were
also
be discon-
An
express stipulation
was
made, that no
of
in sterling
bona
fide
prisoners
to
were
to be discharged
be evacuated without the destruction or deportation of negroes or other American property ; and conquests subsequent to the execution of these articles were to be lestored without
compensation.
separate
and secret
Mr.2Q.\
article
HAMILTON.
the
483
The
bated, and
were
much dedemand of
compensation for
abandoned.
injuries
The
also
produced
dissatisfaction.
fisheries are not
The
judgment
to be
propositions made.
fifteenth
of June, seventeen
hundred
Franklin
His demand of
"
no
less
indispensable in
its
in
its
principles,"*
It
in July.
appears that
made
the
first
" exclu-
contested
England
suit
may be
supposed to
to
;
What
shape
J. 158.
484
this
THE REPUBLIC.
known
[1783.
not
whether
that of an equal division of the fisheries, with a total exclusion of the people of the United States, or a limitation
is
to
an inquiry by
what we demanded
as to the fisheries,"
in
on being
we
insisted
on enjoying a right
common
should not extend further than a coast fishery, and insinuated that pains had lately been taken in the eastern states to
excite their apprehensions that head. to us,
and increase
their
demands on
essential
We
;
told
peace without
and that our people would not be content to make it and Franklin explained very fully their
He
manner
observed
that
it
was
;
natural for
France
fisheries
to
wish better
to us than to
England
but as the
were a great nursery for seamen, we might suppose that England would be disinclined to admit others to share in it, and that for his part he wished there might be
as
few obstacles
to a peace as possible.
also, that
Oswald's
to
be investigated,
is
as to
In
Adams,*
by
restitution, are
imputed
6 D. C. 443-445.
^T.
to a
26.]
HAMILTON.
485
knowledge that the American commissioners were instructed not to make any express engagements in their
behalf,
to
make them
and
it
is
England
was
" stimulated
by
it
French emissaries."
was
of these
fu-
gitives
and
exiles
from
their
at large.
But
that
France
may be
ascribed to other
loyal-
motives
which regarded
least
ty as a virtue
which
on the
to
Vergennes,
instructions
no peace was
to take place
till
He
af-
satisfied
on
this point,
3 S.
J.
159.
t 4 D. C. 57.
486
vice,
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
by
direction of the
twenty."
He imputes
hension, that if
comments on
by Adams
that
Vergennes and
newsmen of Europe
at the
am
is
persuaded,
howevei-, that he
means well
always an
in
some
The
result
Not only
se-
all,
cured
no
sacrifice
But a
that
of censure.
congress of the conclusion of the preliminary treaty, explained the motives which had induced
them
to approve
of
its
leading articles.
As
the
hostility
of France
and Spain
to the
American
interests
and
the advanta-
The
was defended on
by
its
The
articles as to the
it
was
particularly important to
The
4D.
c. 139.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
487
concealment of the provisions of the treaty from France was justified on the ground that they " did not correspond
with the poHcy of France."
The
was founded on
opposed them, they insisted she was no longer entitled to that confidence, and that the injunction "to do nothing
without the advice and consent of that court," could not
The
co-
gent motives.
Deeming
it
to
impress Britain
this
navigation to her
commerce on the interior waters from the Saint Lawrence to the Gulf of Mexico, and thus to render her
averse to the claims of Spain.
also to
and
disincline
England
to
:
a dereliction of
it.
This was effected by a composition drew her pretensions above the Yazoo, and the United
States ceded
all
below
it,
in case that
common
use of
the Mississippi.
secret, lest
Spain
should have been irritated and have retarded the conclusion of the negotiation.
this
matter
entitled to
Jeflferson
in the session
this
its
member
in the
time engaged'
duties.
department of
preparing for
The
488
THE REPUBLIC.
the sixth of
[1783.
Under date of
were strong
indications of the
dominion over
this country."
In another
letter,
under the
he
supposition that
fisheries,
we
can-
not but hate the nation that keeps us from using this com-
mon
favour of Providence."
mon
In
duct,
one
directing
him
to
communicate the
am-
sincerity of these
another, informing
the Ameri-
can commissioners of
this act,
States will
;
be
with
and a
third,
declaring the
" sense" of congress that the provisional articles " are not
to take place until a
peace
shall
Britain.
terms of a peace
shall
^Et. 26.]
HAMILTON".
489
her
were
satisfied."
its
Had
effect
would
satisfied
her
allies
to
When
to
is
considered,
it is
not
and
On
command
the gratitude of
" a lead
in
no
but
his talents
his firmness."
;*
* Judge Peters,
who was
member
:
of this congress,
and who
offered
an
in congress against
thought then,
it
Our
friend Madison,
who was
him
In
generally then with us, left his friends on that subject, and I never liked
it,"
my return
in 1784, I
was informed
my
7,
2 Jay's
1783
requisition of
more
incautious, since
490
there
TEE REPUBLIC.
were those
in that senate
[1783.
who would
have incurred
any
It
sacrifice,
was
resisted,
and
and
successfully.
Different substitutes
were
offered.
That of Hamilton
ally,
the
communicated
to the minister of
;
affairs
and
that he in-
that they
upon
all
harmony and
Great Britain
articles so favourable
and so important
to
those interests."*
ex-
of the
sig-
tacit
acknowledgment."
tlie
Also,
March
18,
1783
" The
latest letters
;
from
may
them
which seems
to leave their
own
reputa-
mercy of Shelburne.
to
In
this business
lead,
and proceeded
can form
little
Adams
Frankhn has
/Et. 26.]
HAMILTON.
491
Ham-
had the gratification of preparing, was agreed to. " Though I have not performed my wrote to Jay promise of writing to you, wdiich I made you when
He
you
left
this
country, yet
less
inter-
have been
dency
I
to
and
may
"
assure
you with
sincerity, that
it
is
as high as
you
The
its
terms
honour
to those
the time
who made it. It is the more agreeable, as was come when thinking men began to be seand exthis
hausted state of
talk of
country.
an acknow-
"
We
of
have
now
work of
independence, but
fruits
it.
to reap the
Every day
;
yet the
common danger
we
is,
of advancing in a disposition to
amend
defects.
The
of
state
to inspire jealousies
power of congress
it
no power, and
want
of
be drawn
and
we
at this
be
we may
492
THE REPUBLIC.
[1788.
The preceding
of
this infant
empire.
confirmation of
its
purposes
is
to
be found in the instructions of Montmorin, the successor of Vergennes, to his legate in the United States.
it is
"That
all
the
stability
of which she
is
susceptible
every enlightit
;
and
may
government
ally.
Such a
policy,
it
men
in this country,
motives, allied
crafty councils.
When
the existence
Upon my
first
discovered sympinterests
of the United States to the management of France. Though I felt, in common with those who had participated
in the revolution, a lively sentiment
of good-will towards
it
its
and hand-
some manner
independence of
our country, and dreading the preponderance of foreign influence as the natural disease of popular government, I
at the
by an undue
resolved at once to
Mt.
26.]
HAMILTON.
our
affairs
:
493
subsequent stages of
"
my
poHtical Hfe.
I
Among the
fruits
of the bias
final
them
in a state of
dependence on the
to themselves
was cause
the
two
The commissioners, of whom Mr. Adams was one, had the fortitude to break through the fetters which were laid upon them by those instructions and there is reason to believe that, by doing it, they both accelerated the peace
"
;
Yet a
serious attempt
was made
to obtain
their conduct.
sure, the praise
The attempt failed, and instead of cenwas awarded which was justly due to the
this
country
In this
result,
my
were
heartily united."
* It
is
among
man whom
own
141.
pal-
hundred years
after the
Brissot,
CHAPTER XXXV.
The
necessity felt
by the
by
in seventeen
before the articles of the confederation had gone into operation, while they
were exercising
all
the large
powers
make
The
first
articles
By
the
twelfth article,
gresses
were sanctioned
United
payment wliereof
was
so-
lemnly pledged."
principally
instrumental
in
framing those
tionary
power of congress
been attended to
^T.
for
26.]
HAMILTON,
services,
495
their
which ought
can
states
;
to
and inconsistent with that equality subsist among citizens of free and repubhmeasure appeared
citizens in
that such a
exalt
to
be calculated
to raise
and
some
Such was
explicit public
engagement alone been saved from dissolution. This remonstrance of Massachusetts was brought before congress
at a later period than that
now under
that
consideration.
all
consid-
it
was a complete
assembly, that on the discussion of their report, the declaration of the constitutional
power of congress
in favour
to
make
it
was
stricken out
question.*
Among
by
the
army on
the
fif-
dence in the
justice
and
were were
of America would not disband or disperse them, unliquidated, the balances accurately
their pay-
their accounts
ascertained,
ment."
The
ment.
term-s
com-
*
in
to congress,
which
army
is
assigned as
496
thus did
:
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
"
The army, by
an
Congress
ion
is,
may
resolve
upon
They have no
shall
by the confederation
;
to
demand
funds,
and
to
be continued
in
service
till
would be
it is
supposed, would
and
and increase
is
kept together,
;
the
more
is
procrastinated
the
abilities
support, and a
new
It is further
to-
would
facilitate the
settlement of accounts,
diminish
union.
line,
being on
their
by
their
own
solicitations
and those of
different
A proposition
will be transmitted to to
you by Colo-
form of a resolution
be adopted by
congress, framed
soning.
"
upon the
Another proposition
:
lution
That
'
is
is
will continue to
do every
power towards procuring satisfactory secuwhat shall be found due on such settlement.'
^T.26.]
"
HAMILTON.
this,
497
The scope of
I
out comment.
am
to request
you
will favour
me
with
your sentiments on both the propositions, and in general with your ideas of what had best be done with reference
to the expectation expressed
by
On
till
one
side, the
army
on the other hand, they have no power of doing any thing more than to
;
recommend
and are persuaded that these will meet with mountains of prejudice in some of the states.
funds,
made
to
in
a plan for
it
is
be hoped
will ere
success.
This public
letter
was enclosed
in a private
one of the
same
date,
which
and
dis-
trifle
more
capacity.
Here
as a soldier
who
feels
what
is
much
" I sincerely
to the
human
States.
heart as
it
were no
and
dis-
seeds of
in those
who
I
But while
urge the
army
to moderation,
and endeavour
to confine
Vol.
1132
498
of duty,
I
THE REPUBLIC.
I
[1783.
you
that
am
Rean
a principle of
hostility to
army, whatever be their merits, whatever be their claims to It acknowledges their the gratitude of the community.
services with unwillingness,
tance.
I
reluc-
occasions.
to
a mortification which
would be impolitic
my
my
reason.
Too many,
colour,
with safety or
would be glad
I
army.
tion.
"But supposing the country ungrateful, what can the army do ? It must submit to its hard fate. To seek reThe army would dress by its arms, would end in its ruin. moulder by its own weight and for want of the means of keeping together, the soldiery would abandon their officers.
;
re-
means
that
make
cellency can
want motives
to continue
your influence
in
have an indifferent
ill
forebodings
of
its
future system.
"Your
ing,
make allowance
too true.
is
God
send us
all
more wisdom."
Washmgton
replied
.Et. 2G.]
HAMILTON.
Newburgh, 4th
499
April, 1783.
"
DEAR SIR, " The same Post which gave me your two
letters
of the
twenty-fifth of March,
have
made a very
is
full
my
letter
it
which
and supposing
unneces-
must beg
full
explanation of
ment and
horror.
But
I will
is
The
idea of redress
by
is
force,
Mind
:
in this
army
but there
no
telling
may
result
from
distress
Army
are alive,
hope no
rely
come
the Lines,
till
You may
upon
it, sir,
that
attempt.
The
any
act, therefore,
attempt to
will
into
an
settled,
of Congress
" I will
convey the most unfavorable ideas of the rectitude whether well or ill-founded matters not, the
;
now,
in strict confidence,
may men
It
is,
that
some
army
are beginning to
mau-
500
THE REPUBLIC.
is
[1783.
due to them
make
to
men who
of Independency, are to be made use of as mere Puppets and that rather than not to establish Continental funds
;
weaken their ground, they of the army and all its interests.
this
matter to you.
The one
is,
that the
sufferings
Army
it is in, its
and composition)
a dangerous in-
means
own
;
disbanded with-
out delay.
is
it is,
this
scheme.
If sen-
timents of this sort should become general, their operation will be opposed to this plan, at the same time that it
would encrease the present discontents. Upon the whole, disband the army as soon as possible, but consult the
wishes of
it,
in the
mode, and
and
justice
which
esteem
is
due from the Country to it. I am, with great sir, your most obedient servant."
'
letters
of the thirty-
of March and fourth of April, the last to-day. The one to Colonel Bland, as member of the committee, has been
read in committee confidentially, and gave great satisfacThe idea of not attempting to separate the army tion. before the settlement of accounts, corresponds with my
proposition
;
me
indispensable.
The expec-
yEx. 26.]
HAMILTON.
To-morrow we confer with
501
tations of the
moderation
itself.
There
I
will
be
difficulty,
but not,
we
hope, insurmountable.
thank
to
me
in
your private
lettej*.
do not wonder
;
at the
nor should
be sur-
is
still
who
to elude them.
men,
sir,
in congress of
one attached to
state, the
The
last
ged
which are
now
by
The advocates
terests of the
creditors,
from a convic-
tion that
no funds for
those states to
whose
citizens the
indebted
or
if
pressions of the
bility
;
ways
of them.
vain to
tell
men
the
army
They
would reason from their interest and their feelings these would tell them that they had as great a title as any other class of the community to pubUc justice, and that while
502
this
TEE EEPUBLIC.
was denied
is
[1783.
to them,
it
would be unreasonable
to
make
them bear
This
in
their part of a
others.
the
way
some of the
"
was
would have
do
justice to
partial provision.
to
how
Taxation
was found, could not supply a sixth part The loans in Europe were far balance, and the prospect every day diminish-
ing
much
as she
else,
in
money on
mere
faith
of
this
payment
either of
to be
In
this situation,
what was
was essential to our cause that vigorous efforts should be made to restore public credit it was necessary
done
to
?
It
combine
all
upon
states.
different
the
different
The
army
sir,
pre-
But,
these
by a
was indeed proposed to appropriate trade to the army debt, and, what on intended impost the was extraordinary, by gentlemen who had expressed their I acknowledge I was dislike to the principle of the fund.
single fact.
It
this,
and
that
was
the fund
in
on which
;
we
in-
Europe
it
was
we
terest of what had been borrowed and what was to be borrowed. The truth was, these people in this instance wanted to play off" the army against the funding system.
"
As
to
Mr. Morris,
I will
^.T. 26.]
HAMILTON.
He had
He
; ;
found
he found
he found
himself pressed on
in short,
he found himself,
reduced to
this alternative
either of
making en-
fulfil,
were not established by a given time. the first course, the bubble must soon Had he followed have burst he must have sacrificed his credit and his
;
would have
ter to resign
He
wisely judged
it
bet-
this
the
was
to
be
hoped, would produce the proper measures, and he might then resume the direction of the machine with advantage
and success.
He
also
his resignation
He
was, however,
personal enemies, who, by playing upon the passions of others, have drawn some well-meaning men into the cry
against him.
But Mr. Morris certainly deserves a great I believe no man in this country
The
truth
is,
He
happened
in
whom
second actor
50J:
THE. REPUBLIC.
[1783.
The
opinions on this
as
on continental secuthose
was of this
last opinion,
and so were
who
will
puppets.
Our
principal reasons
were
First,
by referring
make
the
commutation
of
an equivalent.
pare, (as has
when
the officers
happened
in other cases,)
new
the
source of discontent.
was
between
nearly dissolved
by
states
;
details to give
you a
just idea
of
sir,
assure
you upon
my
honour,
of my judgment.
The men
against
whom
the suspicions
most sen-
army
in a
men who
" I
think continentally.
for peace arrangements.
am chairman of a committee
We
shall
"We
at this
moment
learn an officer
is
arrived from
iEi. 26.]
HAMILTON.
Carleton with despatches
;
505
probably
official ac-
Sir
Guy
counts of peace."
From
pelled
this letter
may
rassing position in
Com-
by a high
by
his
comprehensive
that misrepresentation
and
would par-
schemes
to
to the
which
them
deep distrust
mean
line
to
of
gerous suspicion of being accessary to an excitement which, once aroused, might disregard
volve every interest,
civil
all
control,
and
in-
and
military, in
one common
ruin.
Under
otism of
lofty intellect,
fullest
his fellow-soldiers,
adhered
to his determination
mands of
public faith,
which he pronounced
He
lowing explanatory
"
letter
from Washington.
Newburgh, Ap.
16, 1789.
DEAR
"
SIR,
last letter to
My
in a hurry,
when
506
THE REPUBLIC.
it
[1783.
possibly,
I
did not
in
what
intended as a
possibly, too,
I
with so
I
much
perspicuity as I ought
what
intended
for I
do not
my
expression.
My
were
gress
Army
as well as in
Con-
State
Funds
and
some
an
its
that, if
Members
or Ministers, bent
upon the
it
latter,
should delay
in pursuit
of their favour-
w^ould
who were
might tend to defeat the end they themselves had in view by endeavouring to involve the army. For these reasons
I said,
or
meant
to say, the
it
Army was
it,
a dangerous Engine
to
work
with, as
throw
to
its
preponderate towards
its
without look-
ing forward (under the pressure of present wants) to future consequences with the eyes of Politicians. In this light,
also, I
meant
to apply
my
whom, or rather to Mr. G. M., is ascribed in a great degree the groundwork of the superstructure which was intended to be raised in the army by the anonymous addresses.
local prejudices than myself, the
That no man can be more opposed to state funds and whole tenor of my conduct
of.
No man,
I
perhaps, has
to see
and
than
have, and
endeavour
(I
JET.2Q.]
HAMILTON.
ineffectually) to inculcate
all
507
them upon
;
proper occasions
but their
as-
sured that,
if
payment.
the army,
Justice
should do in-
justice to report,
and what
be the opinion of
were
to
be wished, as
observed in
my letter to Colonel
Bland,
that
Plenipo. powers.
letter of the
,
more
likely they
be by an intercourse of
of 150
miles,
which takes our Expresses a week at least to go and come. At this moment, being without any instructions from Congress, I am under great embarrassment with respect to the Soldiers for the
War, and
shall
be obliged
my own judgment,
may approve, all will be well why and by what authority did you do so ?
which events
if
otherwise,
How
far a strong
to ob*
may
but
am much
mistaken
I
if
some-
already
The
508
not find a
that
THE REPUBLIC.
man who, when
ivhole
it is
[1783.
upon the
we
am, dear
"
sir,
with
G.
W."
on the
fifteenth
of April.*
Immediately after
to the
this act,
make
by the
British,
and for
The
secretary of
war was
to exclude
did
not prevail.
Notwithstanding
was
to date
from the
ratifica-
defeated.
stances,
To
power of making
It
their restoration
was important,
With
this
*1 Mad.
treaty, a
"Hamilton
to insert, in
a definitive
mutual
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
ratification
509
fol-
day of the
lowing
letter to
Washington.
April 15, 1783.
"sir,
and
to
making arrangements
be transacted by you,
;
for the surrender of the posts in the possession of the British troops.
The
first
of which
is
to
yourself alone.
I will explain to
have arisen
in congress
you
above mentioned.
The
article
to
to wit
the ratification
ty in
is,
treaty to be concluded.
able to the letter of
last construction is
most agreeable
ties
of nations, for
commonly
There
be in
treaty.
It will
my
we
from them.
asking them at
what period they are willing to stipulate the surrender of posts, at the same time that they are asked, in what manner it will be most
This
* Madison Debates, pp. 440, 443, 444.
representation given in these pages with
tlie
may be done by
ratification.
510
THE EEPUBLIO.
If
[1Y83.
they
treaty,
we
shall
then be
justified in
The
we ought
all
events,
I
without delay.
Much may be
fix
said
on both
sides.
doubt
they
till
are willing to
the epochs at
which they
of
us.
It will
add considerably
to their strength
and
ac-
cidents,
though improbable,
may happen.
opinion.
I confess,
how-
ever, I
am
not clear in
is
my
The
provisional or
preliminary treaty
ratified
by us
The
vious
day,
were
in
peremptory terms.
With
a view to
to
modify these
him
;
to
it
were
number was not obtained.* He soon after received a letter from Washington which shows their concurrence of opinion.
Newburgh, 22d
April, 1783.
DEAR
I
SIR,
my
War,
for the
we ought
* Negative
3,
affirmative 5, divided 2.
;;
^T.
to
26.]
HAMILT05T.
I
511
precise
requested, in
terms, to
on the
(before I entered
exercise our
own
re-
mode of
;
being
informed that
we had no
option in the
first,
Congress
I
At the same
if this
in
my
we
power of the British before the Treaty is definitive. The manner in which Peace was first announced, and the subsequent declarations of
into a belief that
it
it,
Army
was
final.
The
it is,
the Soldiers
for the
tually expired
and
I believe it is
not in the
power of Conif
any longer
Guards meet
prothis
we
moment
Insults
to increase our
to prevent rioting,
and the
which the
officers
The
men amount
to
Seven-Elevenths of
Army
6,000
these
we
moment
the British
army
or
will receive
by
their Prisoners
an augmentation of
five
Men.
this
It is
not for
me
which
induced
Ton
we ought, in my
opinion,
good face upon matters, and by a liberal conduct throughout, on our part, (freed from appearances of distrust,) try, if
we
theirs.
fer-
wish most
512
THE REPUBLIC.
to
[1783.
be discharged immediately,
If they continue here, their
plexities multiply.
Petition
is
this
moment handed
I
to
me from
not read
the
Non-Com'd
I
solliciting half-pay.
it.
It is well
it
drawn,
am
told,
but
I did
sent
to under-
did not
come through
the
Channel of
ers
;
their Officers.
This
may
be followed by oth-
and in proportion to its numbers, I more friends any \*here. But if he will neither adopt the mode which has been suggested, point out any other, nor shew cause why the first is imistration in the
;
army
practicable or impolitic,
(I
it,)
they
lukewarm-
And
it
here,
my
let
me
assure
you that
of this
raging
Army
men in Civil
when
thei/
of their dues.
are
cases
futile,
in this
that
tho'
same inconveniences
to obtain
them
otherwise, to adopt
is,
would
my
opinion,
would be
alike
honourable in both.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
anxiety to get
513
My
of
it
;
home
but
when
is it
to
happen
War
Does not these things evince the necessity of a Committee's repairing to Camp, in order to arrange and adjust matters, without spending time in a tedious exchange of
Letters.
Unless something of
this
kind
is
adopted, busi;
or the
Army
will
break up in disorder
nocent inhabitants
I
in
every
direction.
therefore, contrary to
my
apprehension,
all
army
three
am
persuaded, excuse
it
my
precip-
by ascribing
to
an earnest wish
my paying a little attention to my private concerns, which have suftered considerably in Eight years' absence. McHenry expressing in a letter I have lately received
from him
a wish
to
to
be appointed
Official
I
Secretary to
this
London,
have by
oppor-
tunity
Mr. Livingston and Mr. Maddison, speaking of him in warm terms, and wish him success
written
with
all
my
heart."
The day
was written, congress declared men engaged to serve during the war
committee for peace arrangements,
As chairman of
the
imme-
Vol. II. 33
514
THE REPUBLIC.
not prompted
[1783.
whom Was
by
the
tendent of finance,
who was
in
"The
Continentalist," that, as
"a
Navy cannot be
created
Referring also
mint which had been authorized during the precedhe again adverted to the establishment of a
ing year,
NATIONAL COINAGE.
The
the powers,
show
the fulness
and
of
his
his
mind.
;
cupy
all
attention
to
many
were devoted
a general
study of finance.
Having
entered
now
upon a deliberate examination of the pohtical economy of Adam Smith, and wrote, while a member of congress, an
extended commentary upon
his "
Wealth of Nations,"
which
It
is
not preserved.*
manent and adequate funds, having been adopted. This subject was resumed, and, on the motion of Madison, a
proposition
was made
This
fatal
policy,
289.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
less hostile to the object in It
515
view, the establishthe dura-
another only
ment of a
be departed
The duration of
co-extensive with the existence of the debt, and the collection as well as the appropriation should be
trol
ed by Bland of Virginia
was given
in
favour
1,
Madison
it it
states a
its
motion by Hamilton,
duration to 25 years,
to to
be inexpedient to limit
duration
;
first,
because
ought
be commensurate to the
in the present state
secondly, because
all
was improper
it
and
was
in vain to
the states
impost
the interfe-
rence of the impost with the opportunity afforded by their situation of levying
contributions on Connecticut, &c.,
supplies through
the ports of
Rhode Island
little
avowed
objections
would
whilst
it
ought to maintain
the measure.
it till
" Mr. Bland said, that as the debt had been contracted by congress with
the concurrence of the states, the public creditors,
it
to for
payment by
such
was
justifiable
them
to pursue
means
as
would be adequate
which
ayes
'I'he
516
THE REPUBLIC.
hoped that before the
[1783.
still
final
on which an
be establishof "objects
He
list
for taxation."
chiefly
upon
luxuries.
They
were
the
embraced
government.
In the proposed house tax, he was governed by a consideration to
the discon"
Do we
he had remarked
Wherever a
power
is
lodged in any
set
of
men
it.
measuring
whom
their
dom
skill.
The-
by a
and general
rule,
should
know what
fact,
proportion of
liberty
Whatever
we
a
may
cannot exist in
while assessus, is
ments continue.
were
lina,
Rhode
Island,
Massachusetts, Virginia,
divided.
(Colonel Bland,
aye,) Connecticut,
and New-Hampshire,
.Et. 26.]
HAMILTON.
often
;
517
reconciles the most
human conduct
glaring opposites
most vicious
liberty."
While
was proceeding,
the superintend-
that if
money
could
would be the
rate of in-
terest."
He
objected to
the proposed
is
impost, on the
arbitrary,
and sug-
upon
still
be productive."
He
measure of contribution
point-
ed out
its
unavoidable inequality
all
proposed, as a
terminating
state,
draw
was
interest
on such sum
but
and
of the
five
per
cent, impost
would have
;
substituted a
tariff.
This letter
referred
its
was made
to the house.
Fear-
was
was seconded by Hamilton, for a small tax on all located and surveyed lands but it was rejected, four states voting
;
in
favour of
it.
The
duties
power of levying
United States
specific
five
518
THE KE PUBLIC.
of American production.*
[1783.
few
articles
It
provided that
The
removable
if
congress alone
and that
no ap-
made by
congress.
recommended
also
to be carried
shall
which they
be collected
to
states
according
of,
pursuance
though
fourth
It
view
to
ac-
states,
by the
either
by sea or
land,-
satisfactory proofs,
and
mon
as such."f
And
it
common
treasury to be sup-
and pork.
is
origi-
nal of which exists in the state department, No. 26, " Report of Committee on
Finance."
^T.
26.J
HAMILTON.
the states in proportion to the
519
plied
by
number of
inhabit-
and
state,
paying taxes
state,
in
each
The enumeration
to
to
be
made by a
These
resolutions,
when acceded
by every
state,
were
to
of
the states, or
by a majority of
states in congress.
Having contended
in the
against
and
for-
and appoint-
ment of
by
the states,
Hamilton brought
ward
objections,*
fea-
*
last,
did,
quate and permanent funds, in taxes or duties which shall operate generally
in just proportions
indis-
pubhc
credit,
it
and
war.
And
power
whereas
is
common
safety, to
make
every effort in
States, relying
their
it
states without delay to pass laws for the establishment of the following
and
to be collected
and appropriated
by
their authority, provided that the officers for the collection of the said
shall be
accountable
to,
if
after
same
is
jected at the next meeting of the legislature, the person or persons so nomi
: A
duty of
all
five per
cent...
may
be imported
520
ture, that
THE REPUBLIC.
had been suggested
[1783.
to congress in seventeen
thus
into
any of the
said states
United States, or any of them, and except wool cards, cotton cards, and
wire for making them
the duty on
;
and
also,
which
annexed."
serted.
******
Here the
advalorem on
all prizes
and
prize
prize.
hundred
A house
cent,
exceed twenty
rented
;
when
the house
is
and when
in the
The
lot
and
the appurtenances, in town, and in the country, the out-houses, garden, and orchard, to be comprehended with the dwelling-house.
to pass to the general benefit of the
The duties on
imports
each state
in
which they
shall arise.
tinue
till
war
same can be
ascertained,
will invio-
day of December
last, respect-
may
transmission of the state of the public debt, and the proceeds and disposition
of
tlie
said funds
by which
all
may
be effectually removed."
acceded to by every
state,
v. 1,
first,
p. 300.
a general revenue
;
Madison states that " he suggested, as practicable objects an impost on trade secondly, a poll tax, under certain qualifica;
licns
It
thirdly,
ditto.
tax,
p. 226.
1, p. 370, that Hamilton had proposed, in 1781, a land and poll and that the superintendent of finance had also suggested the same taxes. D. C. vol. 12, That Hamilton suggested " a house aJid JoiKdoK) <ai," is an error. His list of " ob-
number of rooms, with an room painted, or papered, or having a marble chimney-piece, or a stucco roof or rated according to the number of hearths or to the number of windows exceeding
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON".
521
Having introduced these propositions, which he saw would result, if adopted, in an essential invigoration of the
confederacy, he
moved a postponement of
the report of
own
views
Rhode
Island,
Maryland, Virginia,
was resumed on was offered to complete that part for raising a revenue by imposts but it was rejected, some of the members being unwilling to
discussion of the original report
the ensuing day,
The
when
a proposition
complete
it
made by
first
The
articles
of confederation, as
it
was
also
;
by the vote of Virginia. The which slavery was not tolerated insisted that
to
the slave-
to
* 4 J. C. 177.
The
Holten, of the
first
state,
it. it.
motion
ginia,
was
Rutledge, of South
Carolina,
was
for
it.
522
THE EEPUBLIC.
that if slaves
[1783
were computed
in the
enumera-
pubUc burdens,
In
ed,
this
was known
to be,
was adopted
perplexing question.
The
difficulty
was suggested of a compound vote of freemen and At first it was should be slaves number of proposed that one-half of the embraced which being objected to by the south, twothirds were proposed; for which number New-Hampidea
slaves as the basis of federal numbers.
;
shire,
Connecticut,
Pennsylvania,
Island di-
Rhode
The committee then agreed to report* as contribution, that the whole number of free
and
three-fifths
of
all
should be computed.
shire,
This proposal
failed.
New-HampMassachusetts,
favour of
it;
Owing
lost.
On
the
first
of April, he moved a
reconsideration of
this question,
ment, by which the apportionment of the expenses was to be in proportion to the whole number of iDhite and other
free inhabitants of every age, sex,
^T.
those
26.]
HAMILTON.
to servitude for
523
hound
of
all
to congress.
states,
the
Thus
the important
of contribution to
general welfare,
ral
was recommended
last
system.
penses of the
also
adjustment
of a revenue system
duty on
salt,
being retained.
On
to the
been com-
pleted,
that
make such
cessions
and to
by
the vote of
all
it
was
referred to
Hamilton, to prepare
an explana-
On
was introduced,
The
foreign debt
was computed
to
amount
to
7,885,085 34,115,290
Domestic
Total
42,000,000
2,415;956
Annual
524:
THE REPUBLIC.
and with the papers relating
[1783.
army.
It
On
the following
day
this report
national credit,"
which required
and the
application.
It
also stated
by the
states.
their engage-
ments, and reproved, in marked terms, the idea of a discrimination between the original holders of the debt and
purchasers.
final It
was from
the
pen of Madison.
On
the
members from Rhode Island, voted in the negative. He deemed it important to give an explanation to the state of New- York of his course on this subject, and of the reasons of his opposition. With this view
Higffinson and the
letter.
May
14, 1783.
The
by congress
states
commodate
this spirit
it
to the objections of
some of the
but
it
less eflftcient,
more
palatable.
The
op-
Rhode Island, for instance, is chiefly two considerations the merchants are
: ;
and the
state,
depend-
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON".
505
amount of
the duties.
now
little
that if agreed
fail
by
all
the states
it
it
will in
a great measure
in the
execution,
received
my
negative.
My principal
interest
articles
is
objections
were
First, that it
and by which
increase of the
is
country.
a moral cer-
by
the
present provision, be
the
fairly extinguished.
Thirdly, that
nomination and
the revenue
least,
the
the
consequence of which
have
little
be, that
those
states
which
own
The evils resulting from these defects will be, many instances the objects of the revenue will be
which
will,
that in
impro-
on experiment, prove
insufficient
that, for
want of a vigorous
will
chiefly
on those
;
states
liberal principles
that
for
lic
want of an adequate
That
this
value.
526
THE KEPUBLIO.
from paying the taxes
I shall
[1783
for
want of
medium.
be happy to be mistaken in
my
be-
hope our
it is
proposed
cause
her interest, at
am much
mistaken
if the
to the citizens
of the state of
New- York do
not consider;
ably exceed
it
its
of course
tal
that ought
the obligations of
pubhc convenience.
eternal reproach
It will
to this
country,
we
the
and true
policy.
worthy of remark,
P. S.
full
and there
is
now
we
ought
may
would be very
injurious to
me
to
Having no
life, I
owe
it
to
myself
my
private con-
/Ex. 26.]
HAMILTGN.
527
It is difficult,
comprehend,
at this time,
how
The
vious,
effect
by congress are
to carry
so obit
into
were
so certain, that
it
it
that
Hamilton regarded
fail in
as
" in
a great measure,
ing, true
his
the execution."
But notwithstand-
to those
principles of action
to
which governed
whole career,
it is
be remarked in
this letter
how
en-
mind rose above all sense of defeat, and with what unreserved and earnest interest he urged the adoptirely his
it,
has
been mentioned
that
the
superintendent of
on that most valuable officer, this purpose had been misrepresented, and attempts were made to induce the belief
that his sole object
was
ernment.
On
the
bill,
a committee, of
to confer
had influenced him, which were, " the continued refusal of congress to make an effectual provision for the public debts," and from which he saw that his administration would
probably end in disgrace, and with the complete overthrow of the national credit and ruin of his private fortune, he
consented to retain
his place.
528
It
THE EEPU.BLIC.
[1783.
doors of congress.
his
proposal at
As peace had not yet been concluded, The that time was of a limited nature.
their deliberations
To
which he seconded, declaring that open debate should be the rule of the house, and secrecy the exThis proposed change was founded on a declaception.
tion
was
whom
the direction of
pubUc
affairs is
motion
rance that
when congress
was
rejected,
proposition
was negatived by a
large majority.f
Immedi-
Hamilton devo-
committee.
On
all
the
first
of
May
he submitted a report
It
;
provided
full
pay
for life to
directing the
the non-commissioned
it,
and and
soldiers
life,
who were
and
to
be
supported for
rations
mean
time their
in
clothing,
them
to participate
made
for
The
financier
By James
Wilson.
iBT.2G.]
HAMILTON".
529
and a
loan.
On the
for-
ward a
It recited
be called
rely,
and
upon the
suffered
in
from the
fulfilling
lations.
make
their
already taken or
his
may
continuance in
office
should be
made
to the king of
Anxious that no
effort should
fulfil-
ment of
" that a
by congress
to apportion to the
best
manner of carrying
engagements
army
war."
bv which,
Vol.
1134
530
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
deliberations, a report
and
and
also to the
representatives of those
who had
fallen in the
service.
The apprehensions which Washington had expressed of the excited feelings of the army were strongly participated in by congress, and a resolution was offered to discharge
that part of
it
ed to grant furloughs to the soldiers enlisted for the war, with an assurance of their discharge on the conclusion of
the definitive treaty,
homes
in a
manner
through
most convenient
to themselves,
and
"
to the states
pass,
;"t
and should
camp.
The
on the
was a
subject of con-
stant solicitude to
subject.
Washington.
He
addressed congress
his letter
be urged to
facilitate the
So
Hamilton
all
now
and
to
measures
In reference to the
first
object, he
proposed a remon-
While
May 28.
t 4 J. C. 224.
May
30.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON".
53I
and with
this
view he introduced a
resolution.
obstructions
by
all
the restitution of
;
and the
discontinuance of
all
confiscations, as
due
enlight-
ened nation."
different
They
are
strongly
shown
in the report of
Madison
to the preceding
The violence already displayed by the citizens of NewYork towards the tories, and the unwise legislation of that
state,
this
subject.
On
a division
commitment of the report, so urgent was his sense of the policy and duty of fulfilling the provisional
against the
articles.
Immediately after
of Vir-
December
state,
union be sub-
power or powers on earth," were considered. These resolutions, if regarded, would have
prevented the conclusion of that
treaty,
article
of the preliminary
value, in sterHng
fide
Mad.
456.
Madison
J.
says,
finally
committed
t
netn.
C.
p.
May
30.
532
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
and that the honour and interest of these United States require it should be substantially complied with."
faith,
At
was passed
on the same day instructing the negotiators to endeavour to amend the treaty so as to defer any execution for debts
contracted previous to the
war
and declaring
ing during the
war would be
lest the
Apprehensive
acts
Hamilton wrote
June
1,
1783.
SIR,
In
my
last letter to
it
your excellency,
took occasion to
to the state, at
in
mention that
this time, to
which,
by
of importance-
moment
to the
we
any of those matters which require nine states. I wish your excellency would urge two gentlemen to come on, as it becomes highly inconvenient to me to remain here,
and
I
as I have staid the full time to be expected. observe with great regret the intemperate proceed-
ings
among
in
JilT. 26.]
HAMILTON.
533
Surely,
frontier
its
capital
and
its
posts (on
which
done
to furnish a pretext
on the other
side,
even for
delaying,
ty.
We
country
feel that
but
when we
make us depart from the true dictates of reason when we have seen that passion has had so much influence
passions
in the
in the
war
when we
men
in
like ourselves,
and
sentments
when we
men
in the liberal
scheme of policy
with respect to
which prevails, there is no knowing to whom the reins of government may be committed when we recollect how
little
in a condition
we
our claims
we
manner we
act, especially
when we
in particular
have so
much
faith
at stake,
on the other
by
An
The
to
important distinction
to.
fifth article is
is
recommendatory
there
any
any
It is
matter of discretion
in the
whether they
will
The power
534
of making
treaties,
THE REPUBLrO.
is
[1783.
That
power includes whatever is essential to the termination of the war and to the preservation of the general safety.
Indemnity
to individuals in similar cases, is
an usual
stipu-
to be produced.
Should
it
the
answer
is,
if
the
as
much
ken,
its
part.
for the want of good want of power to reSuppose a violence committed by an strain its subjects. American vessel on the vessel of another nation upon the
of no
moment whether
high seas
given,
is
is
no redress
which
But,
am
on
in
form of law.
am
of the treaty
to
to
be put.
men
treaty
suspended
till
a plain sub-
terfuge,*
al
is
Whatever
is
or preliminary treaty,
as binding
it
made
*
which
Madison Papers,
vol. 1, p. 444.
Yet Madison
says,
ac
to
on
The
shown.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
and
fixes
535
velops, explains,
more
precisely
in the former.
now
send
all
should
we
Is
who have
of
its
immediate operation.
this
is
In
fine, is
it
our interest to
advance
doctrine,
and
till
to
that nothing
binding
when
there
and
definitive treaties
Sir
Guy
has
same
idea.
am
think
also
to conciliate this
coun-
engagements
is
calculated to inspire.
which has exceeded the hopes of the most sanguine, which: in the articles of boundary and of the fisheries is even better than
we
is
with
re-
spect to
the height of
imprudence
run any
risk.
commencing hostilities, may evade parts of She may keep possession of the frontier posts.
obstruct the free enjoyment of the fisheries.
She may
merce
as
it is
at.
In
all this
would
are.
find no opposition from any foreign power, and not in a condition to oblige her to any thing.
we
If
we
536
THE REPUBLIC.
would renew the war
to oblige
[1T83.
Great
on our
we
speculate
much
at
random.
Observations might
that
it is
be made on the
last article
Are we prepared,
for the
mere
gratification of
our re-
to
to re-
and
the fisheries?
Do we
fairly stated.
war
and
districts
of territory be-
longing to the
and
also
which
it is
deeply inter-
not
uncommon
in treaties
present
her possession.
original limits,
ceded
in
another quarter.
to readmit us to a
participation in the
What
equivalent
do
we
Congress are to recommend the restoration of property to those who have adhered to her, and expressly engage that no future injury shall be done them
?
This
is
is
not
liber-
is
only
civil-
declaring
what
which
all
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
single equivalent for
537
it,
the restitutions
and concessions
to put
to
Will
it
be
be prudent
in competition
with
all
?
any thing with us or for us, when they find that the nature of our government will allow no dependance to be placed upon our engagements ?
I
in-
ducing,
by our
severity, a great
whose
situations
become our
us
which
will
we
are doing, to
Nova
Scotia, a colony,
position, will
among
mean
no doubt
the state
of
New
bethe
York
will hereafter
To your excellency I freely deliver my sentiments, cause I am persuaded you cannot be a stranger to
force of these considerations.
I
to hazard
them
and good sense of those I have the honour to represent. I esteem it my duty to do it, because the question is important to the interests of the state, in its reto the justice
lation to the
construe what
men who
of any
have been
whose esteem
am most
me
We
"
53S
liave
THE REPUBLIC.
assumed an independent
station,
[1783.
we
ought to
feel
and
to act in a
station.
I
manner
Whatevmade in the
on a
in opposition to the
common
faith
cause, let
them be made by
legal authority,
fair construction
P. S.
Your
when
continental troops.
state
This
more
particular ex-
pense
and
any continental peace establishment for garrisons will take place, before I engage the consent of congress to a separate provision.
I
subject of
money.
The
only reliance
we now have
for
credit, already
made and making for the benefit of the army, is on the taxThe collection hitherto is out of all propores coming in.
tion
to the
demand.
It is
of vast consequence at
this
ward
there
it.
very striking on
is
consequences, &c.
It
^T.
26.]
HAMILTOif.
539
commencement of
this
congress, unadjusted.
this subject.
Some of its
;
leading
men
also
most doubted
The
New-York
jealous of the
unwilling
to adpoliti-
and
to
claims.
who acknowledged
their alle-
confiscated.
congress on the
fifth
ed by Hamilton, declaring
confederacy
;"
to
requiring restitution of
the
confiscated
it.
After
object
until
passed.
The only
of
this resolution
was
to
of the war.
difiicult in
would be extremely
defiles,
and
by
all
troops,
most of
whom were
states,
and
When
Hamilton
views
as
proposed
this resolution,
As soon
he ascertained the true position of the question, he wrote to Clinton suggesting a compromise. The governor replied that the prevailing opinion of the state was, that a partial
as congress
had en-
THE REPUBLIC.
to
540
gaged
[1783.
make a
final
He
thoueht,
New-York
would submit
"
to
it
of peace."
:
to this subject
few days
since I
to find
your ideas
I shall in
As
it
think
my
duty to
my
which
It is
mean
happen
all I
body
I
but from
have seen,
manner than in that prescribed by the confederaThere is always such a diversity of views and interso many compromises to be made between difierenl
a question of this nature, the embarrassments
states, that in
of which have been increased by the steps that have preceded, and in which the passions of the opposite sides have
taken a
sity.
warm
part, decision
must be the
result of neces-
tinate
While congress have a discretion, they will procraswhen they are bound by the constitution, thev
therefore
must proceed.
" It
is
my
opinion that
it
the legislature,
when they
either to relinquish their pretensions to the country in dispute, or to instruct their delegates, if a decision
is
not had
within a limited time, to declare the submission to congress revoked, and to institute a claim according to the
principles of the confederation.
It
would be out of
my
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
;
541
policy, to prevail
but
I will
would be expedient
to
remove every motive of opposition from private claims, not only by confirming in their full latitude, previous to the
trial,
may happen
;
that
it
employ force
and
in this
ments
"I
in the
way
last
between the
states.
letter,
communicated
to
ing the frontier posts, because temporary provision had been made in another way, which would save the state
the immediate expense
;
of some general provision for the defence of the frontiers, on a continental establishment, which was to be preferred
on every account.
is
now
be-
fore congress, but the thinness of the representation has for some time retarded, and still retards its consideration.
The
from accounts
it
may
in
daily be expected.
who
from Dr. Franklin to Mr. Barkely, telling him that the definitive treaties were signed the seventh of May, be-
tween
in six
all
the parties
that
to be evacuated
ratification
of the preliminaries in
512
"
this
THE REPUBLIC.
As
it is
[1783.
not
my
opportunity to
make my
respectful
acknowledgments
to represent the
mark of confidence
conferred upon
me by
I
having chosen
shall
me
if
be happy
mv
conduct has
CHAPTER XXXVI.
During
the various progressive steps towards the estab-,
been directed
to other matters of
permanent
interest.
military-
Soon
after his
its
connection
with the comforts of the army, and its previous inefficienthe Quartercy, was a subject of prominent importance
master-general's Department.
The
to.
difficulties
While a member of
General Schuyler had, after urging General Greene to continue at the head of this department, strenuously pressed
by Hamilton,
stating in a
in the
most
spirited
on the twenty-eighth October, system were seventeen hundred and eighty-two. This drew from the
made, the last
quartermaster-general a
letter, setting forth
the necessity
of a change.
to the quar-
544
allotted to each
THE EEPUBLIC.
rank
in the
[1783.
In consequence of a
state
letter
by
the
all
United States
the the
superintendence of Indian
the department of war.
affairs
should be annexed to
That there should be an immediand that four agents, embracing the eastern, nor-
districts,
to negotiate treaties.
power
was added
states,
of the
spective limits.*
He
also, as
ar-
drew a report
in relation to the
department of foreign
It
affairs.f
To
re-
was declared
to
be
congress such plans for conducting the political and commercial intercourse of the United States with foreign nations, as
might appear
to
him conducive
at a
to their interest.
He was
to be entitled to the
* AprU 21.
May 8.
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON".
official
545
have an
secretary to be nominated
by
himself, to
minister
was
also spe-
He was
to be invested
to
where he resided
all
vice-consuls
in
any
traffic.
Vice-consuls
were
to
be appointed without
salaries,
to trade.
The
secretary of foreign
effect,
affairs, in
plan into
was
and
privileges,
proposition
powers for that purpose. was also at this time introduced* which
dent to war.
New- York
to secure copy-
and publishers.
recommendation was
now made
Hamilton had,
at
essential to
se-
the
American union."
It
was not
important as a
mean
of preserving domestic
It
tranquillity.
reply
was
tions
from
and
re-
By
Dr. H. Williamson.
Vol. II. 35
546
the
THE REPUBLIC.
moment
they were evacuated.
[1783.
In his late
letter to the
The
papers.
was prefaced by
the
necessary to ascertain
what powers
" First
By the fourth
it is
de-
clared, that
in time
no vessels of war
be kept up by any
state,
shall
be
trade
nor
shall
state in time
of
number only
as in the
judgment of the
be deemed
re-
United States,
uch
"
state.
Secondly
By the
fifth
United
empowered gene-
and
to
make
requisitions
from each
which requisition
shall
be binding
legislature
of each state
shall
men, and
clothe, arm,
in a
and the
shall
officers
and men so clothed, armed, and equipped, and within the time
States, in congress assembled.
march
Thirdly
By the fourth
clause of the
same
article, the
all officers
of the
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
officers, to
647
of the naval
ser-
regimental
forces,
appoint
all
officers
and
to
commission
all officers
whatever in the
making
said land
and naval
forces,
and
first
on the particular
;
states,
than
from keeping up
danger
the
its
tranquillity
to contravene
positive
power vested
is
to
be
when the
its
forces
rights,
and repel any attacks upon them, the United States would
be obliged
to begin to create, at the
to employ, a fleet
and army.
hostilities
They
before
a length of time
still
is
requisite
to levy
more
to build
and equip
a navy, which
evidently a
work of
leisure
and of peace,
all
common
If this
war, or an invasion.
admitted,
it
peace as they
shall
common
safety.
548
"
THE REPUBLIC.
This
is
[1783.
a principle of so
much importance
in the appre-
meaning of the
first
mentioned clause,
be proper to ad-
power
full
by
them
"
to charac-
of transmitting the
may adopt
to
tional
if
there
is
a constitu-
territory
the Missis-
fisheries,
and
of foreign commerce
States,
all
demand
"
Secondly
The
fortifications
proper to be established
This
is
equally imIf
^T.
26.J
HAMILTON.
it
549
will
be found that the posts will have no mutual dependence or support that they will be improperly distributed, and
;
more numerous than is necessary, as well as less efficacious, of course more easily reduced, and more extensive both in
the construction and defence.
"Thirdly
It
happens
that,
from
local
circumstances,
would be
and
to
them and
to the
United States
them, because
it
by
their neighbours,
states at large
to the
pai% which
be un-
make such
effectual provision,
common
welfare requires
because a single
from the peculiarity of its situation, bewill in a manner keep the keys of the United States cause, in fine, a considerable force in the hands of a few
state,
;
states
may have an
be maintained be-
Fourthly
It is
made upon a more systematic and economical plan, than a provision by the states separately especially as it will be
;
pow-
by means of which,
to this
troops applied
contribute to their
" Fifthly
own
support.
550
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
would always
this
in
essential
branch
an inconvenience
to avoid.
which
Nor indeed
will
be indispensable
fleet
of
insti-
officers,
It
to 4, to
and
some military
ought in
all
establish-
ment
is
it
respects to
The
on considerations of economy
less
extensive than
neers,
be the
As
officers to
be appointed by the
states,
it
more frugal mode." The promotions to be made regimentally to the rank of colonel according to sen-
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
as a violation of his rights, if
551
iority
any
other, who has been fortunate enough to have an opportunity of distinguishing himself in a particular manner, re-
on account of
A general survey is
of land fortifications.
Maritime
fortifications,
is
recommended,
and prepare
all
the
means previously
requisite to
Navy to
be constructed and equipped on a plan deliberately combined in all its parts. The establishment of arsenals, and
magazines of such
of a perishable na-
men
setts,
on a three years'
in
supply,
was
also suggested
and Springfield
Massachu-
West Point, a convenient position on James river, in South Carolina, were proposed as the Camden and
places of deposit.
The
institution
Hamilton advised that a plan for the erection of manufactories of arms and foundries should be preneer corps.
would
complete general
staff"
should consist of a
general officer to
command
com-
mand
and
and an inspector-
general.
The
details
552
invalids of the
THE REPUBLIC.
;
[1'783.
army and navy are given and as the existence of a corps of cavalry was deemed of great importance
to the southern states,
officers should
this
it
be appointed.
establishment
annual expense of
at three
hundred and
and
artificers
were
would not exceed two hundred and forty-seven thousand If this were thought too large an expense, a mode dollars. was indicated for its further reduction and as the officers
;
to
their half-pay
would
Such a provision for the common defence was deemed necessary, and the only question was stated to be, whether it should be borne by the United States or by the particular states in which last case, it would probapublic charge.
;
want of a general system. This report also embraced the outline of a plan for classing and disciplining the militia, whose organization was
pronounced a constitutional duty.
With a view
was proposed
to a
military board
to
and another
who,
as intended to be constituted,
an
efficient
arm of defence.
A plan
The exhausted
as
an
army
insisted
on,
denied.
These
objections,
would naturally
call forth
part of Hamilton.
HAMILTON.
argument.
iET. 26.]
558
would be defended by a
common
interests
of
by
its
uni-
The alarm of danger from a standing army would be met by an appeal to the
ted exertions directed
by one
will.
A
it
He
stated that
to build
was
"
own
;
defence.
it
There must be a
navy formed
to
of peace
ought to be proportioned
all
Congress, constituted
;
No
The want of
New- York,
an army
erty of Athens."
The
legislature of
alive to the
importance
month of March,
request-
article
and
their
of
New- York
state
troops
enlisted,
and
664
THE REPUBLIC.
in the
[1783.
were
whom
the United States should declare thenceforth to be considered in the service of the state, and not in the
service of the United States
;
provisions to be furnished
ly
by congress, but
state.
The
letter
were members.
to congress, directing the
com-
mand
The
was commenced
state
of Virstates
when
it
was adopted.
Ten
members from Virginia, being against it. The course which Hamilton took upon
gave
of
rise to
this question,
much
dissatisfaction in
his constituents.
The views of
different,
were
accordance with
Soon
after
Among
would take
May
3, 1783.
HAMILTON.
^T.
2G.]
555
by
by the
British.
in the tenor
of instructions to our
;
but
official
information
of the
submit
it
to you,
may
not be necessary
the
satisfaction
of the
legislature.
From
informal
I
communications made to
me by
the commander-in-chief,
have reason to believe that he has directions from congress for garrisoning those posts with continental troops,
and that he
But as you
is
that purpose.
was
cessary
and
it is
now
would
re-
you would be pleased to favour me with a particular detail of the motives which influenced the determination of congress on this occasion. For it will readily be perceived, that should congress at this late day accede
quest that
to the propositions
ticable to carry
made by
the state,
;
it
might be imprac-
them
into execution
especially as I
have
was
to incur the
medieu an extract of a
letter
to the
August
last,
requesting a
556
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
from continental
pay, for the purpose of garrisoning the frontier posts. " In my letters to your excellency of the first of June
and twenty-seventh of July, which were intended to be official, I summarily informed you that congress had made temporary provision for garrisoning the frontier posts, and
that a plan
was under
lishment, which
;
manently that, such temporary provision being made at the common expense, and a general plan being under consideration for the future, I
be more
should
fall
exclusively
upon
itself.
more
full detail
upon the
subject,
I left congress,
an undecided
state,
and
it
views would
finally prevail.
of the two houses had been, immediately on their receipt, referred to a committee appointed to report on a peace
establishment,
resolutions
their report
on these
till it
As
making
able
was
were these
were
whose
were more ijnmediately exposed. A considerable part of the house appeared to think, from reasons of a very cogent nature, that the well-being of the Union required a
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
557
would be a great hardship to individual states, peculiarly circumstanced, to throw the whole burden of
and that
it
expense upon them, by recurring to separate provisions in a matter, the benefit of which would be immediately shared
by
their neighbours,
it
at large
that indeed
was
would be
might
between the
states,
un-
friendly to the
common
I
tranquillity.
this
opinion.
head
questions as
and as
difficult
of solution.
On one
hand,
it
the confederation to proceed upon the idea of a foederal provision ; on the other, it was perceived that such a con-
among
an actual commencement
constitutional ques-
of
" In this
tion,
dilemma on an important
and other urgent matters depending before congress, and the advanced season requiring a determination upon the mode of securing the western posts, in case of a surrender this fall, all sides of the house concurred in making
a temporary provision in the manner which has been communicated.
apprehension of the views of the legislature was simply this, that, looking forward to a surrender of the
"
My
posts,
in the arti-
was
to
be
558
THE REPUBLIC.
for the frontier garrisons, they
[1783.
made
and
had thought
it
expe-
Under
apprehension
improper establishment
to continue,
mous pay
is
to the private
all,
now
shared by
upon
thousand
its
a considerable
I
sum
to
acknowledge
saw with
aflfair
which
the
took.
be sorry, however,
legislature.
if it
has contra-
upon
it
me
than
state,
provision should be
made
for the
Without entering
be
into
arguments of general
will
Strengthen
'
the confederation
;
give
it
exclu-^
sively the
let
but
"
its militia.'
As a
facilitates attacks
and,
men
are of opin-
West
Point,
If
Canada
is
well governed,
it
may become
its
by inhabitants attached
to
government.
The
British
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
it
559
nation, while
be expected to keep on foot there a The position of that force, either for defence large force. or offence, will necessarily be such as will afford a prompt
of that country,
may
to us.
Our
be proportioned to their means of annoying us and we may hereafter find it indispensable to increase our frontier
garrisons.
The
thrown additionally into the scale of those contributions which we must make to the payment of the
that quarter,
union
ability
lasts,
;
would,
I fear,
may
be,
would be oppressively felt by only the expense of paying and subsisting the necessary
the people.
It includes
not
will
be always prudent to be
upon our guard against them, yet I am of opinion we may diminish the necessity of it by making them our friends,
and
I
take
it
any where as to the obvious policy of endeavouring to do Their friendship alone can keep our frontiers in peace. it. obIt is essential to the improvement of the fur trade, an
ject of
immense importance
to the state.
The attempt
is
at
as chimeriis
would be pernicious.
it is
War
is
as ex;
pensive as
destructive.
It
for
not to
till
those
now
just
vacant are
filled,
by extending
our settlements to their neighbourhood. Indeed, it is not impossible they may be already wiUing to exchange their
560
"
THE REPUBLIC.
The foregoing
full
[1783.
all
force, if
we had
would make
and care
much
"'
human
affairs
too
if
true,
internal dissensions
tions
but
when
nais
total conquest.
er, the rivalship
pow-
tional
Nothing
shelters us
the fisheries, the fur trade, the navigation of the lakes and
the passions
my
last letter
;
would have
finished
my
communications
but Messrs.
Duane
and L'Hommedieu having transmitted the extract of your letter to Mr. Floyd and myself, in order that we might
comply with what your excellency thought would be expected by the legislature, it became my duty to give this
explanation.
at congress but a
being
now
at a great distance
rate communication."
in the 'consideration
of
^
inter-
warm
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
561
not to accept her cession, but to press upon that state " a
more
liberal
suddenly suspended.
An
moment, had
the
at first
many
The necessities which had compelled congress to disband the army without fulfilling their engagements, led to this event. The patriotic soldiery who
of the confederacy.
security of society
community
common
by the
recital
by
wounded
and by a
who,
them
to display,
to their country.
levies,
A diflferent
There were
caster a
field,
in the
number of new
who had
and
who
immediate pay.
On
was
On
Vol, II.36
562
THE REPUBLIC.
They reached
circulated
[1783.
demand
justice.
it
in the barracks.
among
of an alarming character.
The
On
communication of
tl\eir
purpose, Hamilton
of.
to call
upon the
but he was
unsuccessful.
ry
at
war
to
timation that they had cast off the authority of their officers
and had a design against the bank, congress was convened. The state-house, in which they met, and where the executive of Pennsylvania
was then sitting, was surrounded by three hundred soldiers armed with bayonets, under the
of seven sergeants,
command
who
were
to abide."
and after having received a statement from him, determined that they would enter into no deliberation with the
mutineers, that they must return to Lancaster, and that
Hiere,
and only
there,
St. Clair
was directed
During
endeavour
to
march them
to
their barracks.
of the muti-
members had
yEt.26.]
HAMILTON".
insurgents had
563
The
house, and of
field-pieces.
ground for
there
federal
government, that
Hamilton, as chairman
was
compel them
the militia.
to submission,
To
this
must
On
the following
The
council de-
The committee
extend the mischief, and that they had directed the commander-in-chief to march a detachment to suppress the
mutiny.
The committee
were no
satisfactory
Anxious
564:
THE EEPUBLIO.
[1783.
of that body, and willing to protract their departure as long as they were justified in the hope that the council
might adopt vigorous measures, they deferred it until the twenty-fourth, when seeing no hope of aid from the council,
to expect
ex-
adjournment to Princeton.
there,
The day
directing General
Howe
to
march an adequate
force to
but after
These
were
to that body,
its
were more
particularly so to Hamilton,
dignity.
The
tion
which
irresolution
proceedings.
Immediately after
this publication,
incensed at what he
deemed a premeditated attempt to mislead public opinion, Hamilton addressed them a highly interesting letter defending the coercive measures he had advised, discussing
with great force the obligations of government to sustain their authority under similar circumstances, and making a thorough investigation on general principles of the means
proper for quelling a mutiny.
His views from the commencement were, " that the mutiny ought not to be terminated
by
negotiation
that con-
gress
were
justifiable in
leaving a place
but as their removal was a measure of a critical and delicate nature, might have an
ill
was prudent
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
became apparent,
565
till it
necessity
not only
was manifest
to
in the spirit
which seemed
till it
was evident
to delay
it
was proper
Though he considered
their
extreme
he declared that he
should persist in
that in pursuing
who
awkward,
Subse-
his opposition to
When
" It
commenting on this occurrence, he remarked was the duty of government to provide effectually
:
and
to
manifest that
ty,
its
effect
of necessi-
but of choice.
disorderly riot of an
as the deliberate
mutiny of an incensed
utmost point
of outrage,short of assassination.
The
licentiousness of an
;
army
public
is
to
but in a re-
it is
more
particularly to be restrained,
and when
The
ting punishment,
when
;
ment
to inflict
it
was in the power of the governbut there was no reason for relaxing in
it
566
THE REPUBLIC.
was
to be vindicated, and then
its
[1783.
Its
authority
first
clemency
to be displayed.
"
The
is
rights of
government are
as essential to be de-
The
;
security of the
one
and indeed
in
every
new
ficiently respected."
of things, decision was most compatible with the safety of the community as well as the dignity of government.
seri-
ous mischief might attend the progress of the disorder. Indeed, it would have been meanness to have negotiated
and temporized with an armed banditti of four or five hundred men, who, in any other situation than surrounding a defenceless senate, could only become formidable by
being feared.
people
;
was not an army with their officers at their head, demanding the justice of the country either of which might have made caution and concession respectit
able
it
soldiers,
who had
authority."
Civil govern-
it
may
each
surest
dependence;
democracy,
which
States,
The
citizens of
state are, in
an aggregate
light, the
citizens
of the United
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
own immediate
representatives.
it
567
The
was not
to congress personally,
The
only question
whether
there was greater danger to the city in attempting their reduction by force, than in endeavouring by palliatives to bring them to a sense of duty. It has been urged, and
appeared to have operated strongly on the council, that the soldiers being already embodied, accustomed to arms,
and ready
to act at a
moment's warning,
it
would be ex-
tremely hazardous to attempt to collect the citizens to subdue them, as the mutineers might have taken advantage of the
first
stances
but
it is
more
men when deprived of the example and direction of their officers. They are infinitely less to be dreaded than an equal number of men who have never been broand
to obey,
used to be commanded
ken
to
their natural
courage for
Take
away
them
to themselves,
till
The idea of coercion was the safest and most prudent, for more was to be apprehended from leaving them to their
own
passions, than
from attempting
to control
them by
force.
The
the
crisis,
and
568
the council
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
ouorht to have
In concluding this sketch of Hamilton's services for the short period of eight months in the Congress of the Confederation,
is,
it is
this outline
to
show
his
commanding
position,
moral and
intellectual.
when
New- York
legislature, he
observed
that, to effect
tains of prejudice
and particular
was a pretty general opinion that the system of funding for payment of old debts, and for procuring further credit, was wise and indispensable, yet that a majority thought it would be unwise in one
state to contribute in this
way
alone."
With such
eral
vial
temper of the country and of congress, it was no tritask to combat yet while some around him are seen
;
and
and
of
he
is
commencement
meeting
it
promotive of the country's good, and urging in their stead the adoption of an energetic and comprehensive system of
national policy
As
to
its
Friendship
with
their
the
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON".
569
to their neigh-
As
compact Peace
establishment, land
without derangement.
As
to its
of shof t duration, reserving the power of aiding domestic industry light and easy duties on unports, as " a mode of
;
abilities
of
imposed as
" bounties
primary necessity.
As
much
press, or the
upon certain
luxuries,
tax, as auxiharies.
The revenue to become the basis of " Foreign loans" to Fund the debt, and of a " Sinking fund" to discharge it. The " Assumption" of the debts of the states incurred for
the
common
facilitate the
pay-
ment and collection of duties, and to aid and regulate the commerce between the states by supplying and maintaining an uniform currency.
It is
time,
calculations of per-
prompted them
when
when,
public
as he
life."
wrote
570
THE REPUBLIC.
'1783.
Views such as these could only have been entertained by a mind fraught with the great idea of regulating the conflicting forces which disturbed the political system by
a general pervading and controlling law
instituting a
organs
"
Rhode
power of levying an
means necessary
as a
if
to
its institution,"
and
justification
of
letter, is
by
the
that are
empowered
to
borrow money
means necessary
tally,
these inductions are, and repudiating, as he had done tothe idea of a resort to force, he
tion
saw power
it
concert the
means."
to
Hence he proposed
its
that
should be
empowered
nominate
own
revenue from
individuals.
its
powers
directly,
without state
expedient
now
but
how
far
congress of ambassadors
is
* This proposition
twentieth of March.
previously stated in
full,
as presented
by him on the
The
New-York,
The
Those against
were Arnold,
Bedford, Collins, Fitzsimmons, Gervais, Gilman, Gorham, Hawkins, Hemsley, Higginson, Holten, A. Lee, F. F. Lee, Madison, Mercer, Osgood, White,
Williamson.
J.
C. 177.
Two
members voted
for
it
iET. 26.]
HAMILTON.
this
571
Defeated in
of apprefelt
of the Union, he
that
it
was due
them
in their
own
behalf.
this
With
view he prepared
but finding that they could not succeed, and unwilling that a
new obstacle should be raised by the formal rejection of propositions of such magnitude, he did not bring
them forward.
is
On
seen
"Intended
!"
made by
himself,
to
be
to be submitted to congress in
seven-
of support
From
the
little
would seem
distinct
depart-
the confeder-
and generally,
withholding from
all
it
that
and influence in
matters of general
whole
states,
and
In
and executive
powers
in a single
body
as that of determining
on the
572
THE REPUBLIC.
force, land
[1783.
and naval,
to
be emope-
when
raised
ing and
making
sums or
quantities of
money to be
maxims of
the
common
well-founded
ing cognizance of
last
their
from which
by
the interfe-
powers vested
in
the
union, the national treaties will be liable to be infringed, the national faith to be violated, and the public tranquillity
to be disturbed.
"Fourthly
ed
In
money
;'
common
and applying the same for defraying the public expenses and yet rendering that power, so
of the union, nugatory, by withholding from them
trol
con-
it
common
will con-
fallen,
and
" Fifthly
In
towards the
common
expense, whicn, if
practicable at
all,
must
in the execution
be attended with
^T.
26,]
HAMILTON.
573
'
" Sixthly
In
authorizing congress
to
borrow money,
States,'
or emit
bills,
without
the power of establishing funds to secure the repayment of the money or the redemption of the bills emitted, from which must result one of these evils either a want of suf-
borrow, or to circusecond
whereby
may be
endangered,
first
or
last,
the anni-
of public credit.
to emit
infancy of
this
coun-
commencement of the
its
revolution,
liable to
and fraud, holding out temptations equally pernicious to the integrity of government and to the morals of the people.
" Seventhly
by
leaving
officers
it
to clothe, arm,
at the
States
for
want
manner of conducting
;
by
own
an ambiguity
of the sixth
article, sus-
ceptible of a construction
574
THE REPUBLIC.
[1783.
defence both by sea and land, and would preclude the United States from raising a single regiment or building a
single ship before a declaration of
mencement of
hostilities
confederacy in different respects, by leaving the United States at all times unprepared for the defence of their
common
rights, obliging
them
to
and to build and equip a navy at the moment they would have occasion to employ them, and by putting into the hands of a few states, who from their local situations are
all
and unable
to
make
between the
states, unjust
in its
operation to those
whose hands they are, by throwing the exclusive burden of maintaining those forces upon them, while their neighbours immediately, and all the states ultimately, would
states in
either
by
re-
by the
power of
registering
and
by embargoes
all
in cases
of emergency,
to
the omission of
which leaves
;
no other resource than voluntary enlistment a resource which has been found ineffectual in every country, and for
reasons of peculiar force, in
" Eighthly
this.
In not vesting
in the
eral SUPERINTENDENCE OF TRADE, equally ncccssary in the view of revenue and regulation of revenue, because duties on commerce, when moderate, are among the most agreeable and productive species of it which cannot with:
: ;
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
it,
575
same moment,
in
all
the
states
otherwise
commerce of such of their neighbours as did of regulation, because by general prohibitions of particular articles, by a judicious arrangement of duties,
sometimes by bounties on the manufacture or exportation
of certain commodities, injurious branches of commerce
none of
by separate
power
be-
essential to the
mercial
stipulations
own
trade,
entered into.
"Ninthly
In defeating
shall
essential
powers by provisoes
power
provided that no
commerce
power
own
tion or exportation of
ties
whatever
;'
which includes a
treaties of
commerce entered into by the United States. As also the power of regulating the trade, and managing all affairs with the Indians, not members of any states
'
its
own
limits
be not infringed or
violated,'
and others of a
similar nature.
576
"
THE EEPUBLIO.
Tenlhly
[1783.
the sole
pow-
er
'
own
the
power of regulating
is
one
essential to the
will
ence in
internal negotiations
latter
power, the operations of government, in a matter of primary importance to the commerce and finances of the United
States, will be
"Eleventhly
In
others,
of
afl^airs,
in the
power of a
small
combination to retard and even to frustrate the most necessary measures, and to oblige the greater number, in cases
which require speedy determinations, as happens in the most interesting concerns of the community, to come into the
views of the smaller
critical conjunctures,
;
the evils of
felt in
spirit
of
government a
''
spirit
Twelfthly
In vesting
in the foederal
government the'
empowering
it
in aid
of nations
for the
want of which
may
and their peace interrupted, by the negligence or misconception of any particular state.
powers reserved
to the
union
^T.
26.]
HAMILTON.
577
unequal to the purpose of effectually drawing forth the resources of the respective members, for the
and defence
eral
whereby
occasions, been
;
and
alarming situations
their defence,
and proportioned
of the
country
tial
posts reduced
states,
ing that
means of feeding, clothing, paying, and appointarmy, by which the troops, rendered less efficient
have been exposed
to sufferings,
Whereas,
to
also, the
make
the
a scrupulous adherence
to
now
its
principal supporters
to
an arto
my
fought,
citizens
others
money
and
to
ways contributed
their pro-
common
cause
that
mode of doing
by funding
plan,
volved in
all
the disgrace
faith
and
national bankruptcy.
And
whereas, notwithstanding
we
and
have,
by
1137
578
[1783.
now
by an honourable
in
peace,
would be unwise
which
tion
these states
may
be engaged, or to continue
this ex-
government unequal
whereas,
it
its
protec-
and prosperity.
And
is
essential to the
common
necessities,
wills
and of combining
to
which purposes,
spirit
present confederation
altogeter inadequate.
direct the coun-
And
cils
whereas, on the
which may
states, at the
present juncture,
may depend
conceive
it
Congress
to
be
ered in the present plan of the fcederal union, and solemnly to call their attention to a revisal
the same.
it
mended
meet
at
on the
day of
with
powers to
them
shall
appear necessary, to be
states respectively
finally
and
that
upon
the subject."
resolutions, as appears
These
from a communication
to
to
ratified the
I
which
it
wrote
to
intimated that
might be in
^T.
26.J
HAMILTON.
to contribute to the establishment
basis.
I
579
of our foede-
your power
ral
plained myself.
At
the time, I
was
hopes congress
in-
form
this in
full
and forcible
definitive treaty
I
was
wished you
in a
solemn manner
your intended
retreat
first,
and your
last.
will not
be without
though
am
perI
suaded
it
have mentioned
will
at all events,
without compliment,
sir, it
and ultimately,
to
when the present epidemic frenzy has subsided." With this purpose, not less grand in the conception than in the mode in which it was to be effected, Hamilton
closed his career in congress.
"
"
NOTES TO VOL.
II.
25.
Washington to his former secretary, Joseph Reed, are exand confidence, which, unexplained, subject the
a statement of facts.
107,
it is
stated
" Though nominally the aid of the Commander-in-chief, Mr. Reed was
really, as
still
more
responsible
and
confidential nature.
ment
be understood.
It
wUl be
seen,
when
the
correspondence
resumed,
how
upon
his services.
'
My
mind,'
is
now
continue with me, I shall think myself too fortunate and happy to wish for a
change.'
'
I could wish,
my good friend,
I feel the
may
give a spur to
greatly.'
Some months
after,
'
If
measure, as I
know
whom
would choose
to
Uve
in
unbounded
confidence.'
"How far
Washington
letters,
be considered the actual author of the immense number of to which, in his oflBcial and private capacity, he affixed his name," that
may
a question rather of curiosity than of any essential interest or conse"And if it could be shown which it certamly cannot quence," he observes
" this
is
:
bethat
by
others in his
name.
ii
NOTES.
detract nothing from his fame."
it woiilcl
whose elevation
far less,
it
and of
distinction
which
it
may he
examined, and
one of the proudest honors of the subject of this memoir, that he was selected
by Washington as one
whom
he could
trust
opinions at a critical period of his career, for the public and posterity, and
who
at
number
by the
Commauder-in-chief, most,
his secretary."
not probably
all
the
pen of Reed
given, and
show the
difference of style
Reed having rejoined the army, thege confidential relations were continued,
as has been seen, to the
moment
New
Jersey,
when
the
to
came
Washington's knowledge.
The
letter of
it
is
army
cess,"
did not exceed three thousand men, and they were dispirited
by
ill-suc-
and whence " a second move was necessary again to avoid the danger of
being enclosed between two rivers," and was from a person "on ington " relied as on a second self" *
It is in these
whom
"
Wash-
terms
" Dear General, the letter you will receive with this
But, besides
contains
this, I
my
is laid.
mean
you
at the
confess, I
do think that
is
entirely
owing
army and
dependent on
You have
decision
a quahty often
from
and
York
Island,
been here,
this
the garrison
composed a part of
all these
your judg-
ment and
Nor am
and
I singular in
my
opinion
officers
soldiers generally,
have a confidence
to
you
the
where you
are,
and seem
be
less confident
when you
Then adverting
remarks
" General
"
NOTES.
Washington's
believe,
iii
men and
their
arms
the stroke
was
!
struck.
An
indecisive
mind
have
is
one of the
How
often
lamented
it
campaign
my
I
clear
and
your
presence
is
affection
and regard."
:
The
sion of
lament
-with
you that
mind which
war
is
much
;
mere want
right,
if
of personal courage
accident
may
man
of
tlie
best parts,
twenty-fourth of November,
Such a
letter as Reed's
from
written
under
was
may
in the
absence of Reed.
of
It
to a general oSicer
referred to
"
The
retire-
ment of a general
officer,
army, at so critical a period, appears to me to be big with fatal consequences, both in the public cause and his own reputation." *
Three days
after,
on the
thirtietli,
:
sliort note,
"
The
my
hands by an
letter,
Having no idea of
being a private
it,
much less
done
all
as I have
other letters to you from the same place and Peekskill, upon the
office,
business of your
them
to be.
This, as
it is
my excuse
which neither
Reed
himself on
tlie
verge
His danger of
109.
iv
exposure became imminent.
XOTES
The
prospects of 'Washington
had darkened.
Haunted
Tvith the
apprehension of
tlie
between himself and the enemy, but " the shattered remains of a broken army,"
Reed
may
have faltered.*
Trenton and Princeton gave new
at Morristown,
life
The
hopes.
victories of
to the
American
from the
'^Tien the
Eeed
retired
after
pression
him
to
letter of Lee.
after,
To
ed to
the
was a great
object,
and
command
of the horse.
ruling passion, I
will be founded
As ambition for military command is not my make no doubt any preference given to any other person
will give satisfaction to every one.
I
on such merit, as
it
am
sure
it
will give
to me, as I love
my
stake in the
game
not to wish
it
well played."
you
on the subject of a
I deferred
it
letter,
written to
me by
captivitj'.
in
answer.
I fear,
from what
little
probability of
my
While he stays in
I
my hopes,
and
in the
it
mean time
most solemnly
you would
I
see nothing in
and
affection
which
My pressing
ing that
it,
him most
you
my
respect
and attachment.
No man
I say
in America,
my
this
dear General, more truly and ardently wishes your honor, happiness, and success, or
more upon
occasion, from
from
The
ed,
ere a
month
elaps-
Washington announced
him
assigned
him
to the
*
command
of the horse.
Hamilton
to General Cadwallader,
NOTES.
kindness on the fourth of June
:
V
-which, with equal
"
cowardice and baseness, some persons have bestowed, would have given
little
me
for
it
in
your friendship
;
and esteem.
I
am
sure
and discerning,
to suffer the
unguarded expressions
sincere, disinterested
had given of a
first
favored
me
with your
" I
am
sensible,
my
dear
sir,
how
difficult it is to
but the consciousness of never having justly forfeited yours, and the hope that
it
may
be in
my power
fully to convince
you
of
it,
are
some consolation
In the
for
mean
by
my
dear General,
let
me
entreat
you
to
judge of
me by
realities, not
incompatible with that regard I professed for your person and character, and
which, whether I shall be so happy as to possess your future good opinion or
not, I shall carry to
my grave
me
with me.
"
A late perusal
of the letters
at
I
Cambridge and
New
York
a melancholy pleasure.
affected,
have since
I should not,
my
dear
tience at this juncture so long, but that a former letter upon this subject, I
fear,
has miscarried
and, whatever
may
be
my
of life, I could not support the reflection of being thought ungrateful and insincere to a friendship which was equally
my pride
and
my
pleasure.
May God
virtue,
my
dear and
as
much
make yom*
life
your
Moved by
later
these
met by a
letter ten
days
s
thank
you, as I do most sincerely, for the friendly and affectionate sentiments contained in yours of the above date towards me, and to assure you, that I
perfectly convinced of the sincerity of them.
am
True
it is,
I felt
myself hurt by
a certain
I
letter,
from you.
was
my judgment
contained in
mediately to myself.
vi
"
NOTES.
The
favorable
manner
in
all
occasions,
had
in
which I wished and required them to be given, your advice upon any point in which I appeared
with any
me,
I thought, to
be wanting.
To meet
my
mortified at
it.
However,
am
per-
alfectly satisfied, that matters were not as they appeared from the letter
luded to."
He urged him
He was
Congress by Pennsylvania,
in
quarters, before
and
the
Monmouth.
unoccupied.
On
Arm-
The
now
devoted
my poor
who have
it
The
Aware
and
fear-
wound upon
haunting letter the pride of the Commander-in-chief by the pubUcation of the only hope, to his as resorted, Reed of his confidential aid, from Hackensack,
the expedient of obtaining the promise of Lee not to expose him. He addressed to him a letter, on the eighth of July, 1778, the answer to
which shows
proved
it
and
for the
time
entirely successful.
it
with a crescendo.
"
Dear Reed *
Though
me
to
it
I am
as-
man
so strangely as
you seem
my letters
to the print-
er at Trenton and
to yourself.
am
me
in
the opinion I
that
and / am angry
moment
you with
that the public interest certainly, and perhaps your personal concerns, render it necessary you should be on good terms with." The residue of this " As to you, containing some curious matter, closes with this sentence.
man
letter,
* Life of Eeed,
i.
369.
NOTES.
my
dear Reed, I
still
vii
have
all
first in
my
The next
was
in the
year seventy-nine.
his conduct,
Stung with mortification, and exasperated at the unmeasured censure of Lee resolved on an appeal through the press. He prepared a pa-
Some
humbly
The
"
Deak
Sir
" As I
tiality,
am
way
now
arrived
I enclose
I believe
before.
insert
If
you are
in
them
your
ed about Philadelphia.
" The following Queries, political and military, were some time ago handThe import of some of them is so curious, that they
may
if
Is Col.
"I
my love to him." This request was repeated understand my friend, Col. Oswald, is entered into
I
beg
Without
my
But
have
many
papers which
may
be assured that to you alone they shall improper to insert the Queries I
first
be consigned.
enclosed.
you
You
Thus
Oswald
was
called
upon
for
an explanation.
He
peared in public, and, irritated at the decided disapproval of the gallant Col. Smith,* challenged him. Goddard, the printer, fled to Annapolis and published
a recantation
"
justice,
and
my
duty, and
beg pardon."
Among
"
Query
9th.
Whether
it is
rent from the principles and spirit of liberty and repubhcanism, to inculcate
+ Keed's Life,
i.
261.
viii
NOTES.
in the people
and encourage
on one
an idea that
man?
Whether they
really do depend
on one
man?
excepted,
among
who
Whether
this
Excellency a
or whether evidence could be produced of his sentiments being quite the reverse ?"
;
man
Thus
Reed,
and
an explanation,
now
" In a
in
General Washington,
late paper, I
am
my own
Washington was not the distinguished character the addresses of the Council of this State had represented from which an inference is to be drawn preju;
dicial to the
General in point of
ability,
in consistency, so far
it
as I
in those addresses.
;
my
it
duty to contradict
correspondence has been grossly violated on this occasion, I should have passed
by, if the fact
" The only ground on which this insinuation can be made, arose from the
following circumstance
:
In the
fall
of 1776, I
there
among
those
whom
more than
I ever
more than
Knowing
mine, I wrote to
I
me
is
want
" Upon
wrote in haste, in
full confi-
my
anxiety
for the
was summoned that very day, and surrendered the nest. I absolutely deny that there is any other ground but this letter and if there is, let it be
;
produced.
after,
now only to add, that though General Washington soon by an accident, knew of this circumstance, it never lessened the friendI have
greatness of
mind
to sup-
who
should
NOTES.
I
ix
for
this great
such he
is,
at very criti-
cal
moments
and
when
I assure
my
my
opinion
is
may
experience of the value of his opinions have inspired him with more depend-
ence on them than his modesty and diffidence would in some cases formerly
admit.
Time
will
show whether
pointed in their attempts to shake the public confidence, and lessen a character
of so
much
The
WashThe
Reed communicated
this publication to
hl:n.
Commander-in-chief,
acknowledged
it
me your
favor of the 8th instant, for which and the favorable sentiments expressed of
me
will permit
me
to offer
my
grateful acknowledgments."
An
explanation of
Thus
it
him
his kindly
intercourse.
By whom
is
or at
what
not ascertained.
His correspondence
with Reed appears, on the part of Washington, to have ceased on the 20th of
November, 1780.
This defence
of
is
remarkable.
It contains
Reed
to
Washington should
be evacuated.
" In the
fall
of 1776, I
was extremely
my reasons, and I think urging him to join me in of my letter." The hypothesis on which this statement
and
Fort Washington had
its
being
the
of that
month after
evacuation had taken place, which was the very groundwork of the censure
of Washington.
letter did
it
did,
gives a challenge to the world to show that there was any other ground but show that he this letter, for the allegation that evidence could be produced to did not think Washington
"
And
if
any
let it
be produced."
X
Thus Lee was held
written,
to his
NOTES.
engagement
it
not
himself.
It is
not sur-
which these
" there
is
among
the
MSS.
and
his friends."*
Thus,
it is
and confidence
want
of frankness.
Page
In the
life
178.
of Washington
by
Irving, vol,
iv.,
227
to 233, referrmg to
late reply of
General Washington to Sullivan in respect to Hamilton's appointment as Superintendent of Finance, these observations are seen
a,
few Jays
after
just so
it
when a
that caused
:
him and the man he had praised Then quoting Hamilton's letter,
stated
remarked
hy Hamilton himself,
think he was in the wrong. His hurrying past the General on the stairs, without pausing, although the latter expressed a wish to speak with him his givmg no reason for his haste, having, in fact, no object in hurrying down stairs
;
we
La
all
this
and we do not wonder that the Commander-in-chief was deeply offended at being so treated by his youthful aid-de-camp. His expression of displeasure was measured and howdignified,
had
certainly
an
ever
irrit.ited
he
may have
was due
to him, as
" The reply of Hamilton, on the contrary, savored very much ofpetulance,
however devoid he
may have
curt
considered
it
determination to " part," simply because taxed by the General with want of
respect,
was singularly
and
abrupt.'^
is
not
is
upon which
it
states
it
8T0. Note.
NOTES.
Hamilton
ton, told
relates, as
xi
stairs,
me he wanted
me.
him
immediately."
Can such
inter-
course of such intimate relations, be justly censured as " hurrying past without
having, in fact, no
object in
hurrying down
fellow-aid-de-camp."
ton's
Has
this representation a
is
semblance of truth
Hamil-
statement
is,
and there
no
other, " I
Tilghman a
ing
letter to
and
interesting natm-e."
" His
this
La
all
stairs,"
had
certainly
an
aid-de-camp."
Hamilton was then twenty four years of age, and " had been
states,
ment
de
is,
way by
La
Fayette, and
we
ness.
He can
testify
how
was
to get back,
and that
I left
him
in a
/"
chat-
business
whose great
entitled
him
my absence which
states,
grasped
at,"
without
a wish to color
by
his overture,
ence whicli could not have happened but in a moment ofpassion,^^ and Schuyler
defines the treatment as an " insult."
La
in their
warm
letters to
him of
affection
and
" scene."
reply,
it is
much
He
we
states,
"
am
so,
it
not conscious of
part.' "
necessary
to tell
me
sentment,
government of
my own
office
of aid-de-
camp "which
I
my
feelings,
if
xii
NOTES.
;
nice
other, should
be
thrown down,
Having formed
as
it
The
The preferring
Would
such an
explanation" to
?
Would not
to the conit
As
will
not
fatlier
still
of Hamilton's wife.
He
goes
farther,
position,"
medi-
ocrity"
to
Fayette,
men
commended him.
an important
The
fact,
Hand
ante
p.
143, gives
it
color.
This observation
"
It
had
and grasped
at the
shadow of one"
Is the
require
relations
Is the
"being accosted,"
at the
The
lations
for his
conduct from
his self-respect,
ficial to this
less tenacious, or
occurrence in the same light with the commentator, " the nice barrier was
La Fayhave
INIay not
La
?
heard
other than,
as Hamilton states, that there should be " no public knowledge of the breach,"
lest it
ill-effect
?"
risk of misrepresentation
NOTES.
xiii
army and of the world, to a liazard of the public good. But coiild it be ex" a scene," without pected that he would withdraw from the staff after such
confidential disclosures to his
most intimate
friends,
who had
a right to
know
had no
"ill effect"
commentary, which
is
the sub-
were of
calumny.
was a
it
in the
There
too
much
of
method
in the
whole misstatement.
It
commences
with a contrast between Washington's " liberality " and Hamilton's unkindness,
and, after error following error, ends with a gratuitous imputation without the
sliglitest
warrant.
if
if
well founded and well considered, more injure Washington than Hamilton, exhibiting
him
have forbidden
lightly
charges very
made, and, though their fallacy has been exposed, neither withdrawn
nor "corrected."*
It
cannot escape remark, that, while the gross misconduct of other noted
and military
is
animadversion.
The
seats of
Government of two important States are captured by the eneand not a whisper of disapprobation
staff is cursorily
is
my, without
infidelity of
resistance,
heard.
The
one of Washington's
adverted
to,
and a temporary
is
" difference " with another most faithful, ever devoted friend,
diligently criti-
cized
all this is to
of
little
moment.
The
requital f
is
ii.,
Irving's Washington.
errors of Mr. Irving's statement
last,
by a gentleman, without
my
agency.
weeks
he did not
in-
He
The continuance
memory must
an unexpected requital.
I
addressed
him
SuNNTSiDE, April
2.3d,
1849.
my attention
to the passage in
"
xiv
juriouo errors
is
NOTES.
painful.
"
fui,
ut invidiam virtute
I your observations thereon, by which I shall be happy to profit. trust to be benefited by access to all the papers of your father necessary to the execution of my work. There must be many of great interest and importance which have not
and
for
As
it
yer
Very
truly,
my
dear
Sir,
Your
obliged friend,
Washington Irving.
John
C.
Hamilton, Esq.
after.
A.
DANA.
1. is
Vol, To be completed in 15 volumes royal octavo^ large size, double columns. ready, and a successive volume will he issued every 2 to 3 months.
now
PrtM
In Cloth, $3
Sbeep, Library
style,
$3 50
Half Sloroeeo, $4
*,
The design of this work is to furnish a popular dictionary of Universal Knowledge. It will present accurate and copious information on Astronomy, Natural Philosophy, Mathematics, Mechanics, Engineering, the History and Description of Machines, Law, Political Economy, Music, etc., etc.
In the Natural Sciences the work will give a complete record of the progress of Chemistry, Geology, Botany, Mineralogy, etc., during the last 50 years. The exposition of the principles of Physiology, Anatomy, and Hygiene will be prepared by emi-
nent writers of the medical profession. In History it will give a narrative of the principal events in the world's annals.
In Geography and Ethnology the brilliant results of the original investigation of the present century
will
be embodied.
In Biography it will not only record the lives of men eminent in the past, but will devote a large space to sketches of distinguished living persons, prepared by writers, who from locality, personal acquaintance, or special research, are most competent to do them complete and unbiased justice.
branches will have careful attention. which bears on the necessities of every-day life, such as Ventilation, the Heating of Houses, Food, etc., will be treated of with a thoroughness proportionate to their importance. The work is intended to be one of ^practical utility, for every-day consultation. It will abstain from
Agriculture in
all its
The
doctrinal aud sectional discussions, but the History of Religious Sects will as far as possible be written
by distinguished members of the different denominations respectively. It is the aim of the editors to produce an original work, so far as its nature
shall contain all information of general interest to be found in the best
will permit,
one which
modern Cyclopaedias, yet which shall have a character of its own, giving an original dress to those articles which have already been treated of in other works, and will also present a great mass of subjects, which have never before been
brought before the public
in
an accessible form.
mmn
From
the Springfield Republican.
0f \\t
3m$,
the
From
New
" While avoiding all the abstruseness of the large European compendinms, we believe it will amply satisfy the scholar, the mechanic, and the merchant, as it is intended to give the latest information on every subject
treated of in
its
pages."
" A work like the one In question, can only soar above its predecessors by a freshness and clearness which they do not possess, but which- it may, and, from what we know of the abilities of the editors and of the writers en gaged in it, this work tciW possess."
From
From
"From
" W. Gilmore Simms and E. K. Cralle, are the chief fontribntors on topics of Southern literature and literary history, for the new Cyclopiedia of General Knowledge, now In course of publication by the Appletons."
a careful examination of the proof sheets so far prepared, and of the details, we have no he^itation in saying that never before, in the same space, or indeed in any form, has there been written in every department of useful knowledge, such a complete compendium of what
1^- SUBSCRIBERS to ''BENTON'S THIRTY YEARS' VIEW," of which more than 50,000 have been subscribed for, are informed that the second volume, completing the work, is now $2 60, cloth. ready, and will be supplied in the various styles to match the first.
Orders for the above, or either of our Subscription Works, will meet with prompt attention.
New
Yobk, January,
1858.
D. APPLETOJf
&
Broadway.
AMERICAN ELOQUENCE.
A
M'jST
KMINENT
ORATORS OF AMERICA,
WITH BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES AND ILLUSTRATIVE NOTES, BY FEAEK MOORE.
This work furnislies, in a convenient and popular form, a library edition of the most celel)j-:itcd
speeches
Many
of these
and have been inaccessible to the general reader. Beside a great variety of Miscellaneous Addresses and Speeches, there are her presented specimens of the eloquence of the Continental Congress, and selections from the discussions in the State Conventions on the adoption of the Federal Constitution, which will render Its plan maybe briefly stated. the book peculiarly acceptable to the student of American History. A short, but complete Biographical Notice is given of each Orator, and this is followed by specimens of his eloquence, the whole enriched with valuable Historical and Explanatory Notes. An
collection,
any previous
is
wanted
will
may
furnish to
all,
hve over
roi/al 8vo.
t!ie stirring
ing, instructive,
and ennobling.
work
is
pages.
from original
PriM! in Clo.,
$5 Iribrary Style
.Sheep,
S6 Half
Mor. Amt.,
S7 Half
Calf, 88.
New
York, Dec.
1S5T.
Sir I rpmembcr that in a converfation we had not long since, you alhuied to the received opinion among onr distinguished modern statesmen, that we had none of the sjieeches made during the revolution or during You thought tlie early period of our legislative history. the opinion erroneous, and so did I. I have been looking with great pleasure over your late work, "American Eloquence," and am glad to find that yon have set this matSamuel ter right by publishing some of the speeches. Adams' oration on Independence (in 1777, I think). Dr. Wltherspoon's speeches, some five or six in number, Dr. Itrimsay's and Mr. Drayton's of S. Carolina, and several otlier-^. little known to the public, and now published in your book, will show that our fathers could talk. well. * * * Every body knows that they could fight well. Pray go nn, and give us more illustrative of the early days (if the liepublic. It will put the right feeling in the hearts of our young men.
My Dear
Neio York. Dec. 7, l'^57. My Dear Sir I was so eager to see your work on American Eloquence, that I became the owner of a copy almost on the very day of its publication. And now I have to thank you for the beautiful volumes, which you have been so good as to send me, and which I shall doubly value for their intrinsic merit, and as the evidence of your cood will. They came to me as a rich gallery of mental portraits, and I think you have done well in selecting so many speeches that .are of the utmost political and histori-
cal Interest.
With
my
best thanks,
dear
sir,
very truly
j'ours.
GEO. BANCPwOFT.
Very
FRANCIS
Frank Moore,
Esq.
L.
HAWKS.
Neio York, Dec. 11, 1857. Permit me to congratulate you upon your new and very valuable work upon "American Eloquence." It will supply a pTaee in our libraries filled by no other book. Every student of our country's annals, and every lover of true oratory has reason to thank you for a collection so copious and instructive So replete with specimens of the noblest eloquence, and with interesting fr.cts in the lives of men who have made our history. I am, mv dear sir. yours truly. Frank Moore. E. H. CHAPIN
My Dear
Sir
in
your success
From From
new
full
analytical index Is
From
at
"
St. I.ouis Bcmocrat. There has no work issued from the American press
the
for a number of years that will be received with so much gratification, and prove of such inestimable value to the
" Like Motley's Dutch History, it is a book which will once take classic rank, and be referred to as a standard authority by the first scholars."
admirers of the forensic and parliamentary eloquence of our auinirymen, as tt.eso two important volumes."
From
"The
chosen with great researcli the biographies are written with and discrimination brevity yet completeness; and the engravings are the history, tbis'work must most authentic and life-like imaginable."
selections have been
Published by D.
January, 1S5S.
APPLETON &
Co., 34C
Humor
and 24 Portraits
from
Steel Plates.
EDITED BY
Price in Parts, 25 cents each.
Pnblisbed by D.
W. E.
BURTON,
Cloth, each $2.
APPLETON &
The aim of this work is to furnish to all who would seek in the brilTant fancies of the humorist, a relaxation from the cares of business, or a resource to enliven hours of dulness, or
rous authors
to
all,
who would peruse with an appreciating eye the writings of the most gifted humowho have enlivened the English language by their wit and genius to furnish in short, who love a gonial and lively book, such a selection as shall satisfy the
;
mirth-craving nature.
It is
mind
in a
an undoubted but too often forgotten fact, that a book which tends to put th^ frame of good humor, not only disposes men to view with quiet calmness the
turbulence and passion which agitates the world around, but also,
active iind buoyant,
by rendering the
spirit
by
infusing into
it
each
man in unravelling the tangled and perplexing meshes of his own affairs. Humor restrains anger, forbids surliness, it silences envy and softens pride,
asperities of
life, it
disposes the
mind
to a tranquil
and
is
a labor of love to
Mobile Advertiser.
we
York Tribune.
"The
in
many
from
the very
man
to
drawn
times."
freely
tlie
humor
modern
New London
Diiilt/.^^
rhiladelphiii Penn.si/ivanian.
any lover of humorous literature can help buying it." Boston Ad vert iner. 'It will make a very amusing
volume."'
New Bedford Sterciiry. "We do not knov? how any family fond of the ludicrous can afford to dispense with this feast of fun and humor." Neio Jersey Journal."- One of the most attractive works that has ever appeared on our table, for the
jovial.
"
D.
cloth.
work
Vol 5
now
ready.
NEW AMERICAN
same
first,
AMERICAN ELOQUENCE.
now
ready.
Edited by F.
$^5
;
Moore.
CVCLOPJSDIA,
Complete
in 2 vols.
In cloth
in sheep, $6.
Persons desirous of aiding in the circulation of the above or either of our suhscr ption -works., and can produce satisfactory reference., may find constant employment and a liberal commission.
Jkilrpent sf
From
the
%
blj
ai
OR,
m^xm:
THE
5ife5
AUTHOR OF
Published by D. Appleton
The great
one with which be conversant.
it is
& Co
346
,~^~,
subject of these volumes, the Political of the highest importance that every
The
To all who would understand aright the progress of the United States, who would trace their development from a feeble colony to a mighty power among the nations, who would view with prescient eye the causes which are operating still further to promote their prosperity and glory, or the slight seeds of decay which may, even now, have begun to germinate, giving premonitions of coming decline and ruin to all, in short, who love their country and anxiously desire^ her highest welfare, the facts of our political history, the progress of opinions on important subjects among our eminent Statesmen, must be worthy of the calmest and most serious consideration. Every one who has been compelled to search through a large volume to find here and there " needle a few words on the subject which he is examining, has been irresistibly reminded of the All such difficulty is here obviated by an Index, at once complete and accurate. in the haystack." This Abridgment is made without regard to party views, but with the sole consideration of the importance of the subject. ^ five of which are now 7%e work will be comprised in 15 vols., royal octavo, each of Y50 pages ready and they are supplied to Subscribers in any part of the country, bouid in cloth, for $3; iaw sheep, $3 60 half morocco, $4 00 ^i^lf calf, $4 50 each.
;
"From
tary history, and his untiring industry, are a sufficient guaranty for the faithful execution of this great undertaking."
EDWARD EVERETT.
TTon. S. P. Chnae,
Governor of Ohio.
"It will place within the reach of thousands, otherwise inaccessible treasures of historical knowledge." S. P. CHASE.
S)>cretiiri/
It is
of the Brooklyn
Board of Education.
compact
JOHN
C.
BKECKENRIDGE
work
ITon. Edtcard Everett. "Col. Benton's eminent talent and reputation as a Btatesman, his familiar acquaintance with our parliamen-
instructPolitical History of the' United States, and I ed to inform you that the library committee have been authorized to place a copy in ench of the school Libraries
am
To TUB
PuRLisHERS.
GEO.
A.
STUAKT,
Secp.etart.
Boston
" It
Is
.loiirnal.
a matter for sincere congratulation that a duty so important has been undertaken by a statesman so competent in every respect to carry it through."
BiiflVilo Repiiblio. " Its importance to the Statesman, Historian, Professed and General Reader cannot be bere estimated."
clmiit'!^ IVIagnzine. in this country, who has the capacity or the experience, tlie judgment, learning or ability, to present a more faithful transcript of the proceedings of HUNT. Congress than Col. Benton."
no man
FREEMAN
Politician
From
the Demoprafic
solid
"We
masses of irrelevant and useless matter which rendered it effectually inaccessible, the compiler has shown asmncll selective, as in the indication ho has manifested analytic, patience and conscientiousness."
Cliioago Press.
" Every intelligent person, who desires to be acquainted with the political history of his country, should pMSeai a set of these volumes."
"For the Statesman, politician, historian, and brief chronicler of the times, this work will be of almost incaltalable value."
From
From Washington
Messrs. D. Appleton
Irving, Esq.
6,
&
1858.
New
Messrs. D. Appleton
Haven, Jan.
&
Co.
Gentlemen
I
have attentively examined the volume named above, and, as you ask for my opinion, I freely give it. I have fully perused a considerable number of articles especially the longer ones have fully enough to enable read, passim, many more me to obtain a correct idea of their contents and of the execution and have glanced at all the headings through every page of the book. I am free to say that I have been both instructed and interested, and have found all the hours that I could command, during the four days that the vol-
first volume of the New Amer ican Cyclopsedia, which you have had the kindnes* to send me, having remained some time in the handh of my publisher, in New York, has but recentl>
reached me.
ume has occupied me to the exclusion of other books, to pass so agreeably, that I have lingered among the rich articles of this work, and have found it a recreation rather than a labor. History, Biography, Geography, Topography, Geology, and General Science and Art, in many of their most important branches, are treated with perspicuity, correctness, and discrimination, and not a few of the articles are so full that they present a summary and synopsis quite sufficient for the general reader. The American edition of the (original) German Conversations-Lexicon, so ably enlarged and perfected by the learned Professor Lieber, now of* Columbia College or University, New York, presents a model work, to which this new Cyclopaedia is a fit successor and companion. The latter has, moreover, the important advantage of presenting a still greater amount of original American materials, including the most recent researches, skilfully interwrought with the foreign matter, and thus forming a beautiful and rich literary mosaic, while ife is; as far as I have observed, free from any trace of national I beUeve we may feel assured, if the fuvanity. ture volumes are brought out with the ability and fideUty which are so conspicuous in this first volume, that the entire work will form an important addition to American hterature and science, which have accumulated treasures so important and diversified that there is now a fair field for their full display. are now in a condition to make available returns for our large drafts upon the science and arts of Europe. I remam, gentlemen, with my best wishes for your
From the specimen before me, it promises to be a work of great merit and utility, and universal acceptance. For the credit of American literature, which is closely connected with such an undertaking, I am happy to see that the work will be edited by such able hands as Messrs. Ripley and Dana. My nephew, Mr. Pierre M. Irving, will furnish you with information for the article which you specify. Very respectfully, gentlemen, Your obliged and humble serv't,
Washington Irving.
Thos. H. Benton.
City, Jan. 28, 1858.
Washington
&
Co.
Gentlemen
Mr. Shillington delivered me, a week ago, your presentation copy of the first volume of the New American Cyclopaedia, and I have taken time to examine it before making my acknowledgments for your obliging attention in sending it. I have looked through it, and find a work (commenced with a promise of successful completion) which the age and the state of our country require. We have many works embracing the general circle of human knowledge ; but the world is progressive and utilitarian, and our part of it pre-eminently so and, perhaps, there are no several centuries of the world put together that rival the progress which has been made in the first half of the century in which we live. A Dictionary of General Knowledge, on the plan of Messrs. Ripley and Dana's New American Cyclopaedia, had become a want of the age, and the manner in which it has been executed, judging from the first volume, is worthy of the design. The great arts of condensation, of clear perception, and striking exposition of the essential parts of their
;
We
have been fully attained, and will give the reader a library of universal knowledge in a convenient compass, arranged for ready use, and attractively presented in the concise and perspicuous style appropriate to such a work.
subject,
success.
Very respectfully
yours,
Respectfully, &c.,
B. Silliman, Sen.
Thomas H. Benton.
11
From
I
the
Most Rev. John Hughes, D.D. New York, Feb. 13, 1858.
first
From
volume of the Messrs. D. Appleton & Co. of accuevidences eueceed, should exhibit the same I have to thank you for a copy of the first numracy and just criticism, I think the learned editors ber of your New American Cycloptudia, and to exwill have conferred a public benefit at once on their press my gratification that so important and valucountry and its literature. I discover every where, able a work has been undertaken by American traces of original and severe study, going to prove editors and American publishers. It has been quite that this is not a slavish imitation of any similar out of my power to do more than just look into it work. So far as I ant competent to form a judg- here and there and, without supposing tliat it can ment, I think this work eminently entitled to en- be free from the imperfections incident to a work couragement, and I trust the learned editors and which is to emanate from persons holding very conthe enterprising publishers will have no reason to flicting opinions, I feel quite sure that it will be regret the labor and expense which they are be- marked by distinguished ability, and that, when constowing on their Cyclopedia, with a view to place cluded, it will be a vast storehouse of late and very in the hand of every reader a Compendium of Uni- important information such a work as almost every versal Knowledge which shall be, as by the first intelligent person will be glad to have always near volimie it promises, accurate beyond any preceding him for reference. I can only express the hope publication of the same kind. that so large an undertaking may be duly sustained I remain. success. ultimate with and crowned JouN Hughes, Abp. of New York.
have read with care the
Rt. Rev. Horatio Potter, D.D., LL.D., Provisional Bhp. (Prot. Episcop.) of N. T. New York, Fth. 15, 1858.
Very
Horatio Potter.
From
From
1858.
the Rev.
W.
Messrs. D. Appleton
&
Co.
I
New
Gentlemen
I
ment
should sooner have made you an acknowledgvolume of your New American Cyclopaedia, but I have delayed until I could make myself so far acquainted with it as to form an opinion A work so extensive, which is the of its merits. product of so many minds, must necessarily have extent of its contents, as well as in the clearness some inequalities in the manner of its execution. and precision of its expositions. Its broad catholic As far as I have examined it, it seems, in general, character, in which it maintains perfect neutrality the exact fairto be conducted with great ability, showing a care- in all matters of mere speculation ful research into the topics treated, and conveying ness with which it treats the doctrines and practices party in politics, and every religion rich stores of information of the most various kinds. of every sect in The articles on natural science are evidently fur- leaving the representatives of each to present their own expositions, is a rare feature and one which nished by scholars competent in their department and the historical and biographical sketches are .must commend it to universal patronage. The acwritten in a style of classic elegance, and, where knowledged ability of its editors, together with the literary criticism is demanded, show much acute- number and qualifications of its contributors, is a sufficient guarantee that the remaining volumes ness and nice discrimination. The success of such a work must depend upon will be equal to the first for the extent and accuracy W. P. Strickland. the judicious selection of the subjects treated, as of their matter.
for the
;
have examined the first volume of the New American Cyclopedia, published by the Appletons, New York, and can, without hesitancy, say, that it gives evidence of all that the publishers' prospectus that of excelclaims for the entire work namely ling all similar works in tlie richness, variety, and
well as on the scholarship and talent of the writers who discuss them. From the excellent specimen
From
volume, and from the high character of the scholars charged with the superintendence of the Cyclopaedia, we may form the happiest auguShould the remainder be exeries for the future. cuted with an ability equal to that of this introducwill be furnished with a reader tory volume, the work or rather, from its large extent, a whole library on a vast variety of topics, which cannot fail to be of the greatest interest to the student, as
given in this
first
the Rev. E. H. Chapin, D.D, LL.D. New York, Jan. 30, 1858.
Messrs. D. Appleton
&
Co.
Gentlemen
in
Although I have not yet had time to inquire, with that particularity which so important a work deserves, into the merits of the first volume of your New American Cyclopedia, I am struck, even on a cursory examination, with its copiousness, its variety, its careful accuracy, its freshness as to dates, its large amount of new matter, not to be found elsewhere, and
its
am especially
Very
truly,
Wm.
H. Prescott,
gacity and conscientiousness, fulfilled the promise held out in your prospectus that, " abstaining Irom
''