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The works of Alexander Hamilton (vol. 1 of 7) cover

The works of Alexander Hamilton (vol. 1 of 7)

Chapter 122: LA FAYETTE TO HAMILTON.
By Alexander Hamilton
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About This Book

The collection assembles correspondence, political and official writings, and administrative records, bringing together personal letters, logistical instructions, and notes on military and financial matters. The letters reveal commercial and maritime concerns alongside reflections on ambition and practical business arrangements. Official documents include pay-books, legal and constitutional commentary, and essays addressing finance, trade, currency, and international affairs. Read together, the pieces document the practical work of public life and the evolution of economic and governmental ideas through a mix of private dispatches, administrative detail, and argumentative writing.

LA FAYETTE TO HAMILTON.

Paramus, November 28, 1780.

Dear Hamilton:

Here I arrived last night, and am going to set out for Philadelphia. Gouvion goes straight to New Windsor, and by him I write to the General. I speak of Hand and Smith, whom I recommend, and add: “If, however, you were to cast your eye on a man, who, I think, would suit better than any other in the world, Hamilton is, I confess, the officer whom I would like best to see in my * * * * *.” Then I go on with the idea, that, at equal advantages, you deserve from him the preference; that your advantages are the greatest; I speak of a co-operation; of your being in the family; and conclude, that on every public and private account I advise him to take you.

I know the General’s friendship and gratitude for you, my dear Hamilton: both are greater than you perhaps imagine. I am sure he needs only to be told that something will suit you, and when he thinks he can do it he certainly will. Before this campaign I was your friend, and very intimate friend, agreeably to the ideas of the world. Since my second voyage, my sentiment has increased to such a point the world knows nothing about. To show both, from want and from scorn of expressions, I shall only tell you—Adieu.

Yours,
La Fayette.