591From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 2 July 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
I beg leave to recall your attention to the suggestion contained in my letter of the 21st. of June, respecting the raising mounting and equipping of one of the Six additional troops of Horse together with the Non commissioned Officers of the other Troops—and to request your final direction on the subject. The service of the Cavalry in this Country has never been but imperfectly understood....
592Enclosure: George Washington to James McHenry, [13 November 1798] (Hamilton Papers)
I observe by the concluding paragraph of your letter of the 10th. instant that you contemplate conferences between the Secretaries of State and of the Treasury and myself, for the purpose of obtaining auxiliary information from their departments. Several of the questions which you state seem indeed to require such information. But on reflection, it has occurred to me as most regular, that you...
593From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 19 September 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
Col. Read proposes Lieutenant Long as Adjutant, and Dr. Cutlar as Surgeon to his regiment. I would recommend that these nominations be Confirmed. I believe I have mentioned to you Carleton Walker as the person designated by the officers of the sixth regiment to fill the office of Paymaster. I wish your sanction to this nomination. I have written to the different commandants requesting each of...
594From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 15 November 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
I have mislaid the lists of Officers in the fifth and Sixth regiments—You will much oblige by me by sending new lists ones— With great respect ( Df , in the handwriting of Thomas Y. How, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress).
595From George Washington to James McHenry, 10 August 1798 (Washington Papers)
Private & confidential My dear Sir, Mount Vernon 10th Augt 1798 You will consider this letter as private & confidential. Dictated by friendship, and flowing from the best intentions. If then, any thing should be found therein wch may have too much the appearance of plain dealing, look to the motives, and manner of the communication, & my apology will be sought for in yr candor. From the moment...
596From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 9 May 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
Inclosed is the assignment of his Officers by Col Hall to the several Districts and subdistricts. He informs me that Lt. Ninian Pinckney has been nominated as Pay Master & Lieutenant Daniel Hughes as Adjutant of the Regiment. I recommend a confirmation. The others of his Regimental Staff The Quarter Master had not yet been nominated. Col Nathan Rice informs me that Lt Robert Duncan has been...
597From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 16 May 1800 (Hamilton Papers)
Enclosing are letters from Captain Jordan and Lieutenant Soper offering a resignation of their commissions Col. Hunnewell urges strongly that they be accepted— Enclosed is an extract of a letter from Major Rivardi which I send you for your information. ( Df , in the handwriting of Thomas Y. How, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress).
598From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 27 May 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
The returns from every quarter shew that desertion prevails to a ruinous extent. For this the remedies are 1: greater attention to discipline 2. additional care in furnishing the Supplies due to the Soldiery of such quality and with such exactness as will leave no real cause of dissatisfaction 3, the forbearance to inlist foreigners, and, lastly, energy in the punishment of...
599From George Washington to James McHenry, 30 September 1798 (Washington Papers)
I have lately received information, which, in my opinion, merits attention. It is that the brawlers against Governmental measures in some of the most discontented parts of this state, have, all of a sudden, become silent; and, it is added, are very desirous of obtaining Commissions in the Army, about to be raised. This information did not fail to leave an impression upon my mind at the time I...
600From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 24 October 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
[ New York, October 24, 1799. The description of this letter in the dealer’s catalogue reads: “Refers to ‘the evils which attend the delay of money—Among the rest the keeping of the Troops out of Winter Quarters to suffer the rigours of the advancing season.… If the contentment and attachment of the troops are to be aimed at, there must be a material change in the plan which has hitherto been...
601From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 13 August 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
I have the honor to transmit the proceedings of a Court Martial in the trial of Lt. Kreemer of the first Regiment of Infantry. Th e offences charged agains t him are of a nature to merit fully the punishment and they are satisfactorily established. General Wilkinson adds that from the prevalence of the practice which is the foundation of the other irregularities disorders has obtai ne d so...
602From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 2 May 1800 (Hamilton Papers)
Enclosed are letters from Lieus. Noyce and Hinman offering to resign their commissions. You I would thank you to inform me without delay whether they of the acceptance of the resignations will be accepted . ( Df , in the handwriting of Thomas Y. How, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress).
603From John Adams to James McHenry, 18 September 1799 (Adams Papers)
In answer to your favor of the 7th. I consent with pleasure to the appointment of Thomas Pinckney Jun. a lieutenant in the 1st regiment of Artillerists & Engineers. Gen. Pinckneys letter I return. MHi : Adams Family Papers, Letterbooks.
604From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 31 May 1800 (Hamilton Papers)
Enclosed is a letter which I have received from Lt. Lewis of the first regiment— On the expediency of making compensation to officers charged with the performance of extra duties; and the right of the Executive to do it I have already very fully expressed my opinion—I can add nothing to what I have heretofore said, but that Lt. Lewis in this particular case Lt Lewis ought to receive...
605From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, [17 July 1799] (Hamilton Papers)
I perceive by your letter of the 16th. that mine of the 12th has not been rightly understood. Its principal object was the supply of the present year. This it aimed at cheapening by exciting a competition among the actual Contractors , on the ground that the troops, while not required for actual service, might be stationed collectively where the supply was cheapest, as at Brunswick or Trenton...
606From John Adams to James McHenry, 22 August 1799 (Adams Papers)
I consent to the appointment of Mr. William Hosack to be lieutenant in the first regiment of Artillery as recommended by Major Gen. Hamilton & by you in your letter of the 14 & that you should signify the appointment to the vacancy made by the resignation of Dr Hall as surgeon of the 10th regiment. MHi : Adams Family Papers, Letterbooks.
607From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 21 June 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
New York, June 21, 1799. “The suggestion respecting the Cavalry in your letter of the 18th. instant leads to the supposition that the actual raising of the additional troops will be postponed for a considerable time. Though I have no doubt that powerful motives will have influenced this intention; yet I cannot but regret their existence; as well because the body of Cavalry provided for would...
608From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 22 June 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
I have to regret that the accidental disappointment displacement of your letter of the 17th. May has prevented the execution of its object. the inclosed is to rectify the omission. I have not annexed Lt. Gibson to any Company at Fort Mifflin, because now is to be considered as permanently attached to that Post; but consider him as detached upon a special Command. With great respect I have the...
609From John Adams to James McHenry, 1 July 1799 (Adams Papers)
I have received your two letters of 25 June and return you all the papers inclosed.—If you believe Fonda has a shade in his favor, you are at liberty to appoint him. He is to me a stranger. Fowler has been presented to me as an old officer and a man of property. I have read all the recommendations & approve of your list for the 7th. 8 & 9 regiments. If any of the surgeon’s mates should refuse...
610From John Adams to James McHenry, 10 August 1799 (Adams Papers)
The inclosed certificates from a clergyman & two surgeons of good authority were brought to me yesterday by the gentlemen recommended. Dr. David King, whose countenance, figure, dress & conversation, certified in favor of his certificates. I pray you to place his name among the candidates to be a surgeon or a mate, & his papers among the files. MHi : Adams Family Papers, Letterbooks.
611From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 12 November 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
I have just received your letter of the ninth instant, and have to observe that I do it does not appear to me important that a company should be stationed at Easton. I have therefore repeated the order to Captain Shoemaker to march for Fort Fayette— With great respect ( Df , in the handwriting of Thomas Y. How, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress).
612From John Adams to James McHenry, 15 October 1797 (Adams Papers)
I arrived, with my Family at this Place four days ago and propose to remain here and at New york, till the Meeting of Congress. Letters addressed to me, to the Care of Charles Adams Esqr. Counsellor at Law in New york, will Soon find me. I pray you to commit to Writing such Things are you judge necessary to be communicated or recommended to Congress at the opening of the session, and convey...
613From John Adams to James McHenry, 11 September 1798 (Adams Papers)
Inclosed are recommendations of Major McFarland, Captain Nathaniel Thwing to be appointed in the army which I pray you to file with other recommendations & record among the candidates for appointments—Also a letter from Dr Waterhouse a very respectable authority recommending Wm: Amherst Barron to be one of the scientific teachers. I have the honor to be Sir your / most obedient Servant MHi :...
614From John Adams to James McHenry, 12 August 1799 (Adams Papers)
The Freeport volunteers are so well recommended, that I pray you to send their officers commissions. Their application & recommendations are all inclosed. MHi : Adams Family Papers, Letterbooks.
615From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 6 December 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
Colonel Smith strongly recommends Mr. Nathaniel Baldwin as a Cadet in his regiment, and I would propose that an appointment be immediately bestowed— W— ( Df , in the handwriting of Thomas Y. How, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress).
616From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 28 September 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
I enclose to you a letter that I have written to the Superintendant of Military Stores. I wish to be informed whether it will be agreeable to you that I should instruct Col. Parker to have divisions made in the knapsacks of which he complains speaks. With great respect I am, Sir ( Df , in the handwriting of Thomas Y. How, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress).
617From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, [April 1797] (Hamilton Papers)
Situated as I am at this moment I am obliged to confine myself to very general hints respecting the paper of the 15 of April. As to the first head—I think it will be adviseable that the Speech should be confined to the foreign Affairs of the Country giving the primary & prominent place to those with France. This will make the main business the more striking. Domestic matters may follow in...
618From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 12 June 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
New York, June 12, 1799. Quotes from a “letter from Col: Hall of the 10th. instant” and states: “… In the commencement of similar operations, a good Zeal will occasion some wondering, which must be sanctionned as to the past and checked as to the future. I recommend that provisions be made for reimbursement.…” Copy, in the handwriting of Ethan Brown, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress.
619From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 18 March 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
If my memoranda be right I sent Wilkinsons letter, by duplicates through you. If so I presume it is not necessary for the certainty of conveyance to send a triplicate. If I am mistaken in the first idea, or if any thing more is requisite, be good enough to say—If otherwise no reply It is very extraordinary that I receive no acknowlegement of my letters from the commandant at Fort Mifflin (...
620Enclosure: Answer to Questions Proposed by the President of the U States, [29 April 1797] (Hamilton Papers)
To The first. It is difficult to fix the precise point at which indignity or affront from one state to another ceases to be negotiable without absolute humiliation and disgrace. It is for the most part a relative question—relative to the comparitive strength of the parties—the motives for peace or war—the antecedent relations—the circumstances of the moment as well with regard to other...
621From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 24 March 1800 (Hamilton Papers)
I have received your letter of the twenty first instant enclosing the petition of a soldier for his discharge. The principle on which the petition is founded would apply to the whole almost all the married men who have enlisted or may be disposed to enlist. This being the case I do not think it would be proper to grant a discharge— ( Df , in the handwriting of Thomas Y. How, Hamilton Papers,...
622From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 25 August 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
New York, August 25, 1799. States that the lack of a rule regarding “compensation to the members of Courts Martial and to persons acting as Judge Advocates” causes “some embarrassment.” Believes that an officer should be indemnified when “employed in objects or at places, not military posts, which oblige him to incur extra expence.” Requests “information in a particular case respecting the...
623From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 6 February 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
New York, February 6, 1799. “… I perceive that it will be useful for me in the progress of the trusts, which I am and shall be charged to execute, to have an accurate statement of the Officers of the corps of Artillerists and Engineers, and the distribution of them which has been heretofore made among the different portions of this Corps.…” Copy, in the handwriting of Philip Church, Hamilton...
624From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 5 March 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
As the original of the inclosed duplicate must have miscarried, I take the liberty to ask the favour of you to cause the Duplicate to the addressed to the proper Officer by name & to be forwarded to him in a mode that will be render the conveyance certain. It is necessary that the Letter for Col. Moore should immediately get to hand. He has requested me to transmit all letters for him under...
625From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 19 April 1800 (Hamilton Papers)
I have the honor to send you enclosed, for your information, a Copy of a letter which I have written to Colonel Ogden. With Copy, in the handwriting of Ethan Brown, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress. H to Aaron Ogden, April 15, 1800 .
626From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 18 February 1800 (Hamilton Papers)
I have the honor to send you the following extract of a letter from Major Jackson dated Jany. 25. 1800 the appointments he proposes I recommend taking place should they appear to you for the good of the service. “In my letter of the 21st instant I mentioned that Doctor Tillinghast a Surgeon’s Mate in my Battalion had recently resigned, at the same time recommending, Dr Walter Hunnewell, as a...
627From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 3 July 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
I transmit you the proceedings of a Court Martial in the case of Joseph Perkins, who is sentenced to death for desertion aggravated by very atrocious circumstances. I see nothing to occasion a doubt as to the regularity of the proceedings or the propriety of the sentence. I observe indeed that in this as in a former instance the articles on which the sentence is founded are not specified. But...
628From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 16 January 1800 (Hamilton Papers)
Inclosed is a Copy of a letter from of resignation from Lt. Baldwin to Col: Smith which, for the good of the service, I hope may be accepted. With great respect &c— ( Df , in the handwriting of Ethan Brown, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress).
629From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 16 March 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
New York, March 16, 1799. “Though I have not as yet complete materials for arranging all the States into Districts and subdistricts—I now submit to you an arrangement as to some of them, in order that the recruiting service may begin in these, when you deem other things sufficiently mature to commence it. There occurs no important reason why it should not be successively undertaken. On the...
630From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 22 November 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
New York, November 22, 1799. “I have just been honored with your letter of the twentieth instant. The explanation that I entered into in the letter to which this is an answer was founded on a principle of caution, and did not proceed from the supposition that censure had been cast upon my conduct. I can readily assent to the position that in ordinary cases, where [no pressing exigencies...
631From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 10 May 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
I am advised that the recruit — has actually begun in Maryland. I recommend that arms and accoutrements be without delay forwarded for the use of the recruits in the several Circles. It is important that they be provided as soon as they reach their Regimental rendezvouses, as well to excite and keep up the military spirit as for the purpose of early instruction. With great respect I have the...
632From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 2 October 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
In a letter from Col. Stevens I am informed that there is no white Cloth to be had for the purpose of woolen overalls for the of the soldiers—If there be not a sufficient supply of the article on hand it will be necessary to purchase Cloth of a different color as the season is at hand has arrived when woolen overalls are necessary to the troops—I wish to hear from you on this subject as soon...
633From John Adams to James McHenry, 18 September 1799 (Adams Papers)
I received last night your favor of the 11, & have read the sentence of the court martial against Lieutenant Jacob Kreemer of the first regiment of infantry & have no hesitation in confirming the sentence that he be dismissed from the service of the US MHi : Adams Family Papers, Letterbooks.
634From George Washington to James McHenry, 31 July 1798 (Washington Papers)
To a person as well acquainted with the writers of the letters herewith enclosed, as you are, it is hardly necessary to add a word in further recommendation of Major Parker to an appointment in the augmented army. and yet, there is some thing so singularly meritorious in his whole family as Military men that I shd think I was not doing Justice to the Service were I not to advise—if in...
635From John Adams to James McHenry, 7 July 1799 (Adams Papers)
As It is an excellent Principle for every Man in public Life, to magnify his office and make it honourable I admire the Dexterity with which you dignify yours by representing an Army and means adequate to its Support as the first thing necessary to make the nation respected. Genius in a General is oftener, an Instrument of divine Vengeance, than a Guardian Angell. Stoddert I warrant you,...
636From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 13 February 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
I send you open for your perusal a letter for General Wilkinson dated yesterday. If there be nothing in it which you disapprove, you will oblige me by causing it to be forwarded without delay. I am as fast as possible putting other objects in train. With great respect I have the honor to be Sir Yr. very Obed Ser ( ADf , Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress).
637From George Washington to James McHenry, 13 December 1798 (Washington Papers)
Private Dear Sir, Philadelphia 13th Decr 1798 I am really ashamed to offer the letters &ca herewith sent, with so many erazures &ca; but it was not to be avoided, unless I had remained so much longer here, as to have allowed my Secretary time to copy the whole over again; And my impatience to be on my return homewards, on Account of the Season—the Roads—and more especially the passage of the...
638From John Adams to James McHenry, 14 August 1798 (Adams Papers)
I have received only this morning your Letter of the 4th. of this month. Its Contents are of much importance. I desire that you would inform General Washington, that I consider him in the Public Service from the Date of his Appointment and intitled to all the Emoluments of it. He is at Liberty to receive all or any part, at his Discretion: and is fully Authorised to appoint his Aids and...
639From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 12 October 1799 (Hamilton Papers)
It is now time to contemplate the distribution of the Troops of the UStates into Divisions and Brigades. The arrangement which appears to me expedient for the present is this—“That the four old Regiments shall form One Division and two Brigades the twelve new ones Two Divisions and four Brigades.” The very great sphere of action to which the former are destined, including important and...
640From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 19 December 1798 (Hamilton Papers)
You are informed that Mr. Hill is in possession of drafts of surveys made during the last war of our harbour and bay. It is very interesting that the Government should acquire these drafts. You will I presume think that they ought to be deposited in your department as an item in the general mass of information necessary towards plans of general defence. If so you will purchase them, if it be...