To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 2 April 1796
From Alexander Hamilton
New York April 2d 1796
Sir
The express is this morning gone off with your letter to Young La Fayette. I foresaw when in Philadelphia certain machinations on this subject.1
I rejoice in the decision you have come to, in regard to the papers. Whatever may happen, it is right in itself—will elevate the character of the President—and inspire confidence abroad. The contrary would have encouraged a spirit of usurpation the bounds of which could not be foreseen.2
If there is time, I should like to have back the paper lately sent to correct prune guard & strengthen—I have no copy.3 But of the expediency of this the circumstances on the Spot will decide. There is great fitness in the message to the House. I see only one point the least vulnerable, the too direct notice of the debate in the house—which may be attacked as contrary to parliamentary usage. I hear the criticism here among the L——s.4 But this cannot be very material. Most respectfully & Affectny I have the honor to be Sir Yr very obed. ser.
A. Hamilton
ALS, DLC:GW; copy, DLC: Hamilton Papers.
1. See GW to George Washington Motier Lafayette, 31 March. In referring to “machinations,” Hamilton evidently had in mind the congressional resolution offering assistance to young Lafayette (see Lafayette to GW, 28 March, and notes; see also Hamilton to GW, 9 April).
2. Hamilton applauded GW’s decision to withhold from the U.S. House of Representatives the instructions given to John Jay and other documents concerning the negotiation of the treaty with Great Britain (see GW to the U.S. House of Representatives, 30 March).
3. Hamilton requested the return of his draft for GW’s speech to the House delivered on 30 March (see Hamilton to GW, 29 March, n.1). GW had not used the draft, but suggested that he would hold it in reserve “as a source for reasoning” should the House press its demand (GW to Hamilton, 31 March).
Hamilton subsequently wrote GW from New York City on 8 April: “I have done something but not what I intended—The sitting of two Courts & my professional engagements there prevent the execution of my plan—I no longer withold the paper lest circumstances should render it of any use” (ADfS, DLC: Hamilton Papers).
4. Hamilton alluded to the Livingston family.