From Alexander Hamilton to James McHenry, 17 December 1798
To James McHenry
New York Decr. 17. 1798
Dear Sir
You will observe among the propositions lately communicated by the Commander in Chief, that of the addition of two troops to complete the Regiment of Cavalry to ten troops.1 The idea was that these two troops should be Hussars.2 It is much to be wished that Congress would agree to a present addition of two troops to be carried to the actual number of the others. In the distribution of New York into company districts, it will be well to allot to Capt Church3 Rensselaer County and its Vicinity. There his Lieutenant4 resides and there he has numerous and influential friends.
With true esteem & regard Yr. Obed servant
A Hamilton
James McHenry Esqr
ALS, The Sol Feinstone Collection, Library of the American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia; ALS (photostat), James McHenry Papers, Library of Congress.
2. In his report to John Adams, dated December 24, 1798, McHenry wrote: “The two companies, which it is proposed to add to the actual number of the cavalry, it is desirable should be raised immediately. If this is agreed to, they might receive the denomination of Hussar companies—a description of cavalry extremely serviceable in an army” ( , Military Affairs, I, 125).
3. Philip Church.
4. Philip S. Schuyler.