From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 24 February [1791]
To George Washington
Philadelphia Feby 24. [1791]
Sir
I have just heared from the Senate that the Bill supplementary to that for incorporating the Bank went through a second reading and a question was taken upon it & only three or four dissentients: among these, Mr. Carrol and Mr. Monroe.1
It would have been passed this day without doubt; but the opponents insisted on the rule of the House,2 which made it impossible. It will be passed the first thing tomorrow.
The Yeas and Nays were taken in order to pledge the members.
I have the honor to be Most respectfully & Affecty. Sir Your obedt. Servant
A. Hamilton
LC, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
1. The question was whether the bill should pass to the third reading. In addition to Charles Carroll and James Monroe, James Gunn of Georgia voted against the bill. Twenty-two Senators voted in favor of it ( , II, 1809).
2. See note 5 in the first letter which H wrote to Washington on February 24, 1791.