To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 18 November 1788
From Alexander Hamilton
[New York] 18th Novr 1788
Dr Sir
Your last two letters have duly come to hand & the Count De Moustier has delivered me the watch you committed to his charge.1 Your obliging attention to this matter claims my particular acknowledgements. I will make no apology for asking you to take the additional trouble of forwarding the inclosed to the General—I take the liberty of passing it through you that you may by perusing the contents know the situation of the business.2
The demand of fifty Guineas, is to me quite unexpected—I am sorry to add that there is too good evidence that it cost a mere trifle to the General—This however I mention in confidence. Nor shall I give you any further trouble on the subject. whatever may be proper will be done.
Mrs Hamilton requests her affectionate remembrances to Mrs Washington & joins me in the best wishes for you both. I remain D. Sir Yr Affect. & hum. ser.
A. Hamilton
P.S. Your last letter on a certain subject I have received3—I feel a conviction that you will finally see your acceptance to be indispensable— It is no compliment to say that no other man can sufficiently unite the public opinion—or can give the requisite weight to the office in the commencement of the Government. These considerations appear to me of themselves decisive—I am not sure that your refusal would not throw every thing into confusion—I am sure that it would have the worst effect imaginable. Indeed as I hinted in a former letter I think circumstances leave no option.
ALS, DLC: Hamilton Papers.
1. See GW to Hamilton, 6 Nov. 1788.
2. The enclosure has not been found.
3. See GW to Hamilton, 3 Oct. 1788.