From Alexander Hamilton to Stephen Van Rensselaer, 9 December 1784–1788
To Stephen Van Rensselaer
[New York, December 9, 1784–1788.1 “My public engagements have not only left me bare of Cash but have lain me under a necessity to use my credit at the Bank as far as consisstently with delicacy in my station of director I ought to go.… The opportunities my profession gives me have taught me to consider partnerships under all circumstances as delicate and hazardous things.… I am sure for once they succeed, they ten times involve and embarras the person in that predicament.” Letter not found.]2
ALS, sold at Anderson Galleries, May 9, 1912, Lot 64.
1. In the catalogue this letter is dated December 9, 1783. Since “the Bank” (i.e., the Bank of New York) was not established until March, 1784, the date is inaccurate. H was director of the bank from 1784 to 1788; therefore, the letter has been given the inclusive date of December 9, 1784–88.
2. Extract taken from the manuscript dealer’s catalogue.