To Alexander Hamilton from Sylvanus Bourne, 10 May 1792
From Sylvanus Bourne1
Boston May 10th 1792
Sir
I am in this moment favoured with a letter from Mr Bourne2 informing of my having lost my Object in the mint Department & I’ll assure you my Dr Sir the impression on my feelings is severe indeed—as I presume you had not the least doubt of my success from your conversation last had with me. I have on the strength made arrangments which will result injuriously to me—such as borrowing some money &c & with freedom inform you that I am totally destitute of other plans or expectations but feel some relief from a clause in Mr Bourne’s letter where he mentions his opinion that I should obtain some other appointment. Of this you will please to inform me if within your cognizance, or give me a clerkship within your department—where I shall hope by my behaviour to merit your future notice to a better place.
My respected Sir—Suffer me to rest my hopes on your friendship & the incense of my gratitude shall never cease to burn.
I anxiously wait your answer & am with sentiments of respect & permit me to add personal attachment Your Obedt Servt
Sylva Bourne
Excuse my innaccuracies which arise from an agitated mind.
ALS, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress.
1. Bourne, who had been United States consul at Hispaniola from June, 1790, to September, 1791, hoped that he would be appointed treasurer of the Mint. But this post was given to another candidate, and Bourne subsequently became a clerk in the Treasury Department.
2. Shearjashub Bourne was a member of the House of Representatives from Massachusetts.