To Alexander Hamilton from John G. Coffin, 24 January 1800
From John G. Coffin, 24 January 1800
Buxton (Maine) 24 Jan: 1800.
Sir,
On the 2d instant in leaping from a Sleigh, under great velocity, I fell with such prodigious force against an icy road, as nearly to have deprived me of life instantly.
Since this accident, from which I am now recovering, I have been confined to my chamber.
I am by this misfortune incapacitated, at present, to repair to your head quarters. I shall therefore Sir, esteem it a particular favour, if you will have the goodness to prolong my furlough to the last of March, or till my health will permit me to enter on the duties of my profession.
Should opportunity have permitted your attention to my claim as late acting quarter Master at Fort Niagara, and should convenience allow you to cause the amount thereof to be transmitted to me, I shall be essentially obliged.
I remain Sir, very respectfully your obedient humble Servant
John G. Coffin S.M.
1 Regt. A. & Eng’rs.
(ALS, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress). On the cover H wrote a draft of his reply: "Furlough to last of March. Delay of arrangt by Secy of War prevents the Compliance with his request as ⟨—⟩." In the left margin of the first page there is an "X" mark beside the first line of the paragraph beginning "Should opportunity have permitted...."