To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 23 June 1790
From Jeremiah Olney1
Providence 23rd. June 1790.
Sir
Since my Return to Providence I have made enquiry Respecting fit persons to be Surveyors for Warren, Bristol & Pawcatuck River—but I cannot find but one person for the Port of Bri[s]tol, a Mr. Samuel Bozworth2 who is, as I am informed a very Good Character, & held the office under the State. Mr. Ellery3 probably may inform you of Suitable persons for the other Two ports.4 Danl. Updike as mention in my memorandom for Surveyor Should be Daniel Eldridge Updike.5 My Commission came on with Colo. Barton.6
ADf, Rhode Island Historical Society, Providence.
1. This letter is incomplete.
2. Bosworth was appointed surveyor of the port of Bristol, Rhode Island, on July 3, 1790.
3. William Ellery, who had been continental loan officer, had been appointed collector of customs for Newport, Rhode Island, in June, 1790.
4. On July 3, 1790, Nathaniel Phillips was appointed surveyor at Warren and Barrington, Rhode Island, and George Stillman was appointed to this position at Pawcatuck River, Rhode Island.
5. Updike was a merchant and justice of peace for Wickford, Rhode Island. He was appointed surveyor of North Kingstown, Rhode Island, on July 3, 1790.
6. William Barton was a prominent Rhode Island Federalist who had been a member of the Rhode Island Ratifying Convention of 1790.