Alexander Hamilton Papers
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To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 22 November 1793

From Oliver Wolcott, Junior

T D C O Novr. 22d. 1793

Sir

It appears from accounts depending in the Treasury & unsettled, that very considerable Supplies were furnished by the United States to the Marine of France in the years 1778 1779 & 1780, under the Agency of John Holker Esq late Consul general.1

The payments made by Mr. Holker on this account, were in Continental bills long after the Supplies were furnished, & when the currency was greatly depreciated in value. A claim appears to have been made on the part of the United States, but circumstances have hitherto prevented a liquidation with Mr. Holker or the French government.

The balance due to the United States as stated by the late Accountant of the Treasy exceeds 140.000 Dolls exclusive of Interest; whether the statement which exhibits this balance is accurate, I cannot determine, it may however be safely presumed that a considerable sum is justly due.

I have thought it my duty to apprise you of this claim of the United States, that it may be duly considered, whenever a liquidation of the payments to France shall be proposed.

I have the honor to be with the greatest respect &c.

Hon A H

ADf, Connecticut Historical Society, Hartford.

1Holker was a Philadelphia merchant and speculator who during the American Revolution was French consul in Philadelphia and agent for supplying the French navy. See H to Thomas FitzSimons, June 20, 1792, note 2. For Holker’s accounts as agent for supplying the French navy, see Wolcott to H, June 22, 1792, notes 8 and 10.

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