To me it brings no ter-
ror, as I think we have the strongest evidence that it was
not originally intended to exceed four thousand men, and
* The report of this brilliant affair to congress, prepared by Hamilton, gives
a vivid account of this attack.
ror, as I think we have the strongest evidence that it was
not originally intended to exceed four thousand men, and
* The report of this brilliant affair to congress, prepared by Hamilton, gives
a vivid account of this attack.
Hamilton - 1834 - Life on Hamilton - v1
HAMILTON.
211
the army, the prospect of recruiting it, paying, clothing and
feeding it, the providing the necessary apparatus for offen-
sive operations; all these matters ought to be well and
maturely considered. On them every thing must depend;
and however reluctantly we yield, they will compel us to
conform to them, as by attempting impossibilities we shall
ruin our affairs.
If the third question is answered affirmatively, which it
is much to be feared cannot be done, then eventual prepa-
rations ought to be made for both. We shall then be best
able to act according to future circumstances; for though
it will be impossible to unite both objects in the execution,
yet in the event of the enemy's leaving these states, we
should be ready to strike an important blow for the effectual
security of our frontiers, and for opening a door to a far-
ther progress to Canada.
From the investigation of these points another question
may possibly result.
Will not the situation of our affairs, on account of the
depreciated condition of our currency, deficiency of bread,
scarcity of forage, the exhausted state of our resources in
the middle department, and the general distress of the in-
habitants, render it advisable for the main body of the
army to lie quiet in some favourable position for confining,
as much as possible, the enemy to their present posts,
(adopting, at the same time, the best means in our power
to scourge the Indians, and prevent their depredations,) in
order to save expenses, avoid new emissions, recruit our
finances, and give a proper tone to our money for more vi-
gorous measures hereafter?
In determining a plan of operations for next campaign,
much will depend on the prospect of European affairs;
what we have to expect from our friends; what they will
expect from us; and what the enemy will probably be able
to do. These points should be well weighed, and every
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? 212 THE LIFE OF
information concentered to throw light upon them. But
upon the whole, it will be the safest and most prudent way
to suppose the worst, and prepare for it.
"It is scarcely necessary to say, that the providing ample
supplies of arms, clothes, and ordnance stores, is essential,
and that an uncertain dependence may not only be hurtful,
but ruinous. Their importance demands that every possi-
ble expedient should be, without delay, adopted, towards
obtaining these articles in due season for the purposes of
next campaign.
"Heavy cannon, for posts in the Highlands, for battering,
and for vessels, if offensive measures are to be pursued,
must be immediately forwarded, and in considerable quan-
tity. Large mortars, with a sufficient apparatus, will also
be wanted.
"The completing the arrangement of the army, without
farther delay, is a matter of great importance, whatever
may be our plan. The want of this is the source of infinite
dissatisfaction to the officers in general, and continual per-
plexity to the commander-in-chief. The want of brigadiers
is a material inconvenience, and hath been the cause of
much relaxation of discipline, discontent, and loss, in sev-
eral instances. "
These remarks are followed by observations, indicating
changes in the ordnance department, as suggested by Ge-
neral Knox; in the clothing, and in the hospital depart-
ments. The immediate establishment of an inspectorship,
on a definite plan, is strongly urged; and an improved ar-
rangement of the engineering department. The communi-
cation closes with a reference to the situation of the offi-
cers, which is stated "to be so singularly hard, that the bare
mention of their case is sufficient to bring it home to the at-
tention and feeling of every man of reflection, and will leave
no doubt of the necessity of applying a remedy the most
speedy and effectual. "
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? HAMILTON. 213
The views taken in this paper, were the ground-work of
the deliberations of the committee; and the plan of a de-
fensive campaign, which was ultimately adopted, was en-
forced by various considerations.
The enemy's force, at New-York and Rhode Island, was
at this time about twelve thousand men. From the cir-
cular position of their posts, the strength of their fortifica-
tions, and their shipping, it was believed, that to a success-
ful attempt, double that number of effectives would be ne-
cessary. These, both from the rate of wages and the high
price of labour, it was impossible to get, beside the extreme
difficulty of providing subsistence and forage for so large
a force.
For an attack upon the frontier posts of the interior, a
body of permanent troops with auxiliaries, to the amount
of more than twenty thousand men, was deemed requisite;
for the transportation of whom, ships were to be built, boats
provided, and greater expense incurred, than would be ne-
cessary for an attack on New-York.
From the objections to these plans an expedition against
the Indians was free, and attended with much less expense,
while the country would, in the interval, be left to repose,
the disbursements of the year diminished -- a general sys-
tem of economy might be adopted, and enlistments made
to continue during the war.
But as to this latter course, indicated more by the na-
tional necessities than by any other considerations, there
were grounds of serious hesitation. "The very inactivity,
it was naturally feared, might be attributed to the weakness
of the United States, and thus affect their credit and import-
ance abroad, and produce a most serious effect on their
negotiations in Europe. It might also discourage the peo-
ple, inspirit the disaffected, and give time for the discon-
tented to combine and produce extensive divisions, while
a successful blow given to the enemy, in the reduced state
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? 214 THE LIFE OF
of the army, might compel them to evacuate the United
States, to which there would be little probability of their
return. " But to this the finances of the country were in-
competent; and it was believed no adequate force could
be assembled.
After a deliberate view of the subject, a defensive plan
was agreed upon, only to be departed from in the contin-
gency of such reinforcements from France, as would justi-
fy drawing on the resources of the country, to an extent
that would ensure the accomplishment of some capital
object.
For the better organization of the army, in addition to
the subjects previously submitted to the committee, the
adoption of measures to relieve the officers was a primary
consideration; and in a letter received from head quarters,
after stating "that the news of peace had diverted the minds
of the officers at Valley Forge," it was urged, in order " that
the officers should take pleasure in their situation, not mere-
ly endure it; which would render them an insipid and spi-
ritless mass, incapable of acting with vigour, and ready to
fall to pieces at every reverse of fortune;" that they should
be provided with clothing by public authority, at prices pro-
portioned to their pay: that the rations and subsistence
which they had received rendered their situation indigent
and miserable, and an expedient of a periodical valuation
of their rations was proposed. "To attach them heartily
to the service, their expectations of futurity must be inter-
ested. " With this view, a half-pay or pensionary establish-
ment for life was recommended, and not for a term of years,
on the ground, "that the officer looks beyond a limited pe-
riod, and naturally flatters himself that he will outlive it. "
The unpleasant restrictions which attended the resolves for
seven years were condemned; pensions for the widows of
the officers were recommended; and to the objection rais-
ed to pensions, that they were inconsistent with the maxims
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? HAMILTON. 215
of government, it was answered, "that it equally applied
to pensions for years as to those for lives. " "It is alike a
pension, in both cases; in one, for a fixed and determinate
period; in the other, for a contingent period. " Strongly as
these views were taken, it was nevertheless cautiously sug-
gested, "that the subject should not be brought forward un-
less certain of success; that it was a point on which the of-
ficers' feelings were much engaged, and should not be awa-
kened unless gratified. "
Within a few days after, a plan for a clothing depart-
ment was proposed, establishing a subordination of officers,
and recommending a distinct colour and uniform for each
state corps; to diminish the expense of competition for the
same colour; to distinguish the corps from each other; to
discriminate merit; and to prevent expense to the officers
by frequent changes.
It has been previously observed, that on the appointment
of Steuben, a brief plan of an inspectorship had been in
part adopted by congress in the spring of 1778. This plan
was subsequently modified and completed in the ensuing
month of September, when the number of the regiments
was allotted to each state.
The system then introduced, proved imperfect; and hav-
ing been agreed to in committee, on the twenty-eighth of
January of this year, a new plan for this department was
reported by the committee of conference to congress, and
passed on the eighteenth of February following. The re-
port exists among the archives of the government in a rough
state; the preamble in another hand, but the body of it,
with marks of alteration by him, in the autography of Ha-
milton; where may also be found a plan drawn up by him
for completing the regiments, and changing their establish-
ment, in which is a project for an annual draft. Induce-
ments for reinlistments, and the modes of supplying the
deficiency, are set forth with great perspicuity, giving the
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? 216 THE LIFE OF
general principles for such a procedure, which, in similar
emergencies, might be adopted with advantage.
While these topics were engaging their attention, con-
gress was called, by a communication from Mr. Arthur Lee,
and by a conference with the French minister, to a nego-
tiation with Spain, involving points of great moment, the
consideration of which is deferred to a subsequent part of
this narrative.
The inactivity of the preceding campaign, had induced a
general languor in the national legislature, which gave scope
to those dissensions from which public bodies, not acting
under the pressure of controlling circumstances, are rarely
free, and from which the short predatory invasion of Vir-
ginia, by General Matthews, and the remote, though inter-
esting events in Georgia and Carolina, were insufficient to
arouse them.
In early spring, the enemy, waiting reinforcements, were
content to harass and alarm the states adjacent to New-
York by sudden inroads, which did not advance in the least
the great object of the contest, but only served to increase
the horrors of war, by invading the unsuspicious security of
the settlements near the coast. These incursions were ag-
gravated by being chiefly undertaken by the American refu-
gees; who, forgetting their duty to their country, discarded
all regard to the obligations of humanity, and evincing the
cruelty, without the courage of other freebooters, rendered
doubly afflicting this border warfare.
Among other acts of this character, the expedition of
Tryon into Connecticut, and an attack upon Tarrytown,
were most conspicuous; and being conducted, in these in-
stances, by officers of the regular army, excited the loudest
clamour.
The debateable ground of Westchester, had long been a
scene of the most wanton enormities. There parties were
regularly organized, under the singular denominations of
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? HAMILTON. 217
skinners and cow-boys; and as a natural consequence of
this petty warfare, long continued, a great part of the com-
munity were demoralized, and each combination formed
itself into regular bands of depredators.
But the principal seat of these outrages was in the lower
districtsof New-Jersey, which be ingeasily accessible through
its numerous inlets from the ocean, and having a sparse po-
pulation, was kept in constant alarm. Small vessels were
seen continually hovering along the coast, which made in
upon them at midnight, carried off all the plunder they could
find, fired the houses, murdered all who resisted, and perpe-
trated shocking barbarities. Bands of robbers roamed over
the less frequented regions, and along the barrens, who,
excited to cruelty by their conflicts with the militia, mark-
ed their path with rapine and with blood.
The vigilance exerted by Governor Livingston, and the
necessary severity exercised upon these outlaws, rendered
him an object of their particular hostility, and plans were
frequently formed to seize his person. On one occasion,
intelligence of his being at a certain spot was given, a party
was embodied to carry him off, and two men, bolder than
the others, were sent forward to watch his movements. Ac-
cident saved him. In the habit of riding at sunrise, he had,
on the appointed day, awakened sooner than usual, and had
just passed the place selected for his capture or destruction,
when the party made their appearance a few moments too
late. At another time a project was devised for carrying
off the speaker* of the New-Jersey legislature, which was
nearly successful.
A similar design was formed on the person of Washing-
ton. He had appointed to meet some officers at a desig-
nated place. Information was given by a female in the
tory interest, and the necessary arrangements were made
* Mr. Homblower.
vol. i. 28
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? 218 THE LIFE OF
to seize him; but timely intelligence* frustrated the at-
tempt.
A more serious impression was made by a letter of Go-
vernor Livingston, written about this time to Sir Henry
Clinton, alleging that he had the most authentic proofs of a
general officer under his command having offered a large sum
for his assassination in case he could not be taken alive,
and intimating that the person of General Clinton might be
reached in retaliation, but exempting him from all know-
ledge of this atrocious proposal. It is due to justice to state,
that this charge was met on the part of the English com-
mander with an explicit and indignant denial.
The repetition of these attempts suggested the idea of
making Sir Henry Clinton a prisoner; and a plan for this
purpose was devised and submitted to General Washing-
ton. The British general was then occupying a house near
the Battery, in New-York, situate a few yards from the
Hudson river. Intelligence, through spies, had been ob-
tained of the approaches to his bed-chamber. Light whale-
boats, with muffled oars, were to be placed under the com-
mand of Colonel Humphreys, of Connecticut; and the par-
ty, in full preparation, were waiting anxiously the approach
of night for the execution of their purpose.
Colonel Hamilton, in the interval, became informed of the
intended enterprise. He observed to General Washington
"that there could be little doubt of its success: but, sir,"
said he, "have you examined the consequences of it V The
General inquired, " in what respect? " "Why," replied Ha-
milton, " it has occurred to me that we shall rather lose
* A partizan officer, a native of New-York, called at the shop of Mulligan
late in the evening, to obtain a watch-coat. The late hour awakened curio-
sity. After some inquiries, the officer vauntingly boasted, that, before another
day, they would have his rebel General in their hands. This staunch patriot,
as soon as the officer left him, hastened unobserved to the wharf, and des-
patched a billet by a negro, giving information of the design.
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? HAMILTON. 219
than gain, by removing Sir Henry Clinton from the com-
mand of the British army, because we perfectly understand
his character; and, by taking him off, we only make way
for some other, perhaps an abler officer, whose character
and dispositions we have to learn. " The General acknow-
ledged the force of the objection, and abandoned the project.
The several occurrences which have been referred to,
together with the more serious devastations committed at
various points along the sea-board, as well as those in the
interior, produced a stronger excitement in congress than
in the army. For, it is among the remarkable incidents of
this Revolution, that the military influence was constantly
exerted to check the civil authorities in their disposition to
retaliate; and that in their disinclination to carry into effect
the severe orders of congress, the army in numerous in-
stances incurred almost the reproach of insubordination.
Cold speculations on the past have reproved this want of
vigour; but who would willingly add another instance of
retaliation to those to which his countrymen were reluct-
antly compelled?
Of the force of this feeling with some members of con-
gress, the following report, called the "Burning Report,"
from the hand of Mr. Gouverneur Morrif, is a strong illus-
tration.
"Your committee, to whom was referred General Wash-
ington's letter of the thirteenth of July, 1779, with the en-
closures, beg leave to report the following draft of a letter
from the President to the minister plenipotentiary of the
United States at the court of Versailles:
"SIR,
The burning of Suffolk in Virginia, Fairfield, East Haven,
Green Farms, Norwalk in Connecticut, together with the
ravages committed in Georgia and South Carolina, form a
cruel commentary upon the proclamation of the British com-
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? 220 THE LIFE OF
missioners. This proclamation was defended in their par-
liament, as meaning no more than that in future the war
was to be carried on against America as against other na-
tions. It becomes, therefore, a common cause of all nations
to punish a people who so daringly violate the rights of hu-
manity: and it is particularly incumbent upon the United
States, as well to check their present barbarities as to con-
form to the manifesto published in answer to the procla-
mation above mentioned, and to deter all others, by striking
examples, from a breach of those laws which are held sacred
among civilized nations. I am, therefore, to instruct you,
that you employ incendiaries to set fire to the capital of the
British dominions, particularly the royal palace, and to such
other towns in Great Britain as may be most expedient;
and that as soon as some great object of this sort can be ac-
complished, you do in a proper manifesto avow the same as
having been by the order of congress --declare that they
are determined at all times to meet their enemies, in what-
ever kind of war they shall choose to carry on, whether it
be of civilized or of savage nations, and call upon all the
powers of Europe, who may have formerly suffered by the
pride and cruelty of Great Britain, or who feel a just indig-
nation at her present conduct, to join their efforts in vindica-
ting the insulted laws of humanity. I am," &c.
It was read on the second of August, 1779; but it is hard-
ly necessary to add, was never acted upon.
Towards the last of the month of May, indications were
given of designs of a more formidable character; and as
the only probable objects of the enemy were either the
fortifications in the Highlands, or an attempt to take a
position between the different bodies of the American
army, and to attack them in detail, Washington moved his
principal force then at Middlebrook to Smith's Clove, on
the west side of the Hudson, whence immediate reinforce-
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? HAMILTON. 221
merits could be sent in case of an attack upon West
Point.
Events soon proved the wisdom of this precaution. Sir
Henry Clinton, on the return of a detachment from the
South, moved up the Hudson, and made a sudden descent
on Stony Point, which was abandoned. On the following
day he reduced Fort La Fayette, and leaving a sufficient
force to strengthen the works, deterred by the proximity
of General Washington, relinquished his designs upon
West Point, the great object of his movement, and re-
turned to New-York.
These positions being the keys of the Highlands, and
commanding the only ferry in that vicinity, were esteemed
of too great importance to be permitted to remain in the
hands of the enemy, and it was determined to retake
them.
The possession of Stony Point, -- a rugged acclivity,
which stretches so far into the channel of the Hudson, as
to give to its upper waters the appearance of a lake
embosomed in a vast and magnificent amphitheatre of
mountains, commands the opposite fortress. Its reduction
was confided to General Wayne, at the head of the light
infantry. After taking every precaution to conceal his
purpose, and issuing imperative orders to his men to hold
their fire, he succeeded in surprising the garrison at mid-
night, and with a trifling loss, notwithstanding numerous
obstructions, and amid a heavy fire of musketry and grape,
entered the works at the point of the bayonet, without
having discharged a shot.
Colonel Fleury, a young and titled soldier of France,
whose ardent courage and admirable temper endeared him
to the army, was the first to enter the fort and strike the
British standard; and with two others of the advanced
party alone survived. Wayne, whose impetuous spirit had
given him the epithet among his soldiers of "mad Anthony,"
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? 222 THE LIFE OF
received a wound in his head, and supposing it would
terminate fatally, entreated his aids to convey him to the
fort, there to die; but the wound proved slight, and this
gallant officer, who had been foremost in every preceding
action, lived to add laurel upon laurel to his fame, until
not an officer in the army could boast a prouder name. *
The British general, either finding little glory to be won
in New-England, or intent on the possession of these
fortresses, with a view to some ulterior object, hastened to
their recovery. Washington, unwilling to diminish his
army by detaching a force adequate to their support,
reluctantly determined to evacuate them; and adhering to
his defensive system, established his head-quarters at West
Point.
A letter from Mr. Duane, a delegate in congress from
New-York, with whom Colonel Hamilton had formed an
intimacy, thus refers to these incidents:
"DEAR SIR,
Accept my thanks for your favour of the twenty-eighth
of August, and your obliging assurances that you will com-
ply with my request. Unless my anxiety in the events of
the campaign had been very great, I should not have been
so unreasonable as to impose this burthen on any of my
much respected friends at head quarters, well knowing
that they, of all others, have the least leisure. I find the
British reinforcement is arrived.
To me it brings no ter-
ror, as I think we have the strongest evidence that it was
not originally intended to exceed four thousand men, and
* The report of this brilliant affair to congress, prepared by Hamilton, gives
a vivid account of this attack. That body had previously expressed their sense
of the importance of the attempt; (June 11th, 1779,) they adopted resolutions,
ordering medals to be struck in honour of Wayne, Colonel Fleury, and Major
Stewart, and directed the value of the stores captured to be divided among
the troops.
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? HAMILTON. 223
these raw recruits. You say Wayne is still safe. Let
him keep a sharp look out; for I still hold the opinion that
Sir Henry Clinton is bound in honour to chastise him for
one of the most daring and insolent assaults that is to be
found in the records of chivalry: an achievement so bril-
liant in itself, so romantic in the scale of British admira-
tion, that none but a hero, inspired by the fortitude, in-
structed by the wisdom, and guided by the planet of Wash-
ington, could, by the exploit at Paulus Hook,* have furnish-
ed materials in the page of history to give it a parallel. * *
* * * You see, from this, how much I am at my ease.
To know the value of domestic enjoyment, next to head
quarters, I recommend the chair at the board of treasury
for ten months of a session, in which both our friends and
foes are waging a successful war against the public credit.
Present my affectionate regard to his excellency and the
family, and believe me, with every friendly sentiment, your
affectionate and devoted servant,
James Duane. "
In another letter of the sixteenth of September the same
gentleman observes, "I perfectly agree in opinion with you
what the enemy ought, in good policy, to attempt; but they
uniformly contravene their best interest, and pursue mea-
sures which can produce the least possible advantage. I
think I intimated to you, that I should not be surprised, if
Count D'Estaing paid a visit to us early this fall. Reports
prevail which announce his approach. In that case, they
will be as safe in New-York as at Savannah or Charles-
ton, and it is no slander to say lhat the safety of their army
has all along been their first object. What will the world
think of our spirit and resources, when, at the very instant
our enemies, foreign and domestic, pronounce our imme-
* Referring to the daring achievement of Major Lee.
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? 224 THE LIFE OF
diate ruin, from the embarrassment of our finances and a
train of heavy calamities, they see their grand army cooped
up in garrison, their forts taken from them by unparalleled
valour, the country of their savage allies ravaged and de-
stroyed without a single effort for their protection, and a
capital naval armament, equipped by a single state, which
it required misconduct perhaps on our part, and certainly
the most hazardous efforts on theirs, to defeat? The con-
dition of our enemies, instead of being formidable, as they
predicted, seems daily to become more feeble, and instead
of the vigorous and decisive operations which can alone
have revived their declining cause and kept up the spi-
rits of their infatuated adherents, we see nothing but lan-
guor, discontent, and disgust, in their army, their fleets, and
their councils. Their king alone, as if hardened by a judi-
cial blindness, persists in his obstinate folly, and courts the
destruction of the British empire. If, in addition to this,
sickness has taken a deep root among his troops, a decisive
period must, in all probability, speedily be put to their mad
career.
"Count D'Estaing appears to have the ball at his feet.
His command of the ocean must be undisputed, when he is
joined by the Spanish squadron lately at Havannah. He
may divide his force, subdue the West India Islands, and
assist us in capturing the remnant of our enemies on this
continent. I have, however, some distrust of the Count's
planet. His former ill luck on our coast has led me to
think that he is no Felix. How do you like the new minis-
ter from France V
The gentleman here referred to was Monsieur de la Lu-
zerne, who is thus briefly noticed in a letter from Baron
Steuben to Colonel Hamilton.
"M. de la Luzerne desires me to join him on his route,
to accompany him to head quarters. I shall depart on Tues-
day morning for Providence, where I shall require three
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? HAMILTON. 225
days to review the regiments; after which I shall return
immediately to Hartford to join the minister.
"I promised to give you a picture of his new excellency.
He is about thirty-six years of age, though he appears
younger. In the last war he was aid-de-camp to Marshal
Broglio. He appears to me to be a man of solid sense, and
less presumptuous than the people of quality of that country
usually are. His manners are prepossessing; and they
would be more so if he could speak English. His charac-
ter appears to me good; and he is less reserved than Euro-
pean ministers usually are. His personal appearance will
not displease the ladies of Philadelphia. He is a young
chevalier of Malta, who is not so much imbrowned by his
crusades, but that the American beauties will take pains to
teach him English in a short time. His secretary, M. de
Marbois, is a counsellor of Parliament, from Metz in Lor-
raine -- speaks good English; and is a man who shows much
information and judgement. " Hamilton briefly replied:
"Dear Baron -- I am at this moment honoured with
your letter of the 30th ultimo, and have communicated that
part of it which concerns M. de la Luzerne to the General;
agreeably to which we shall take our measures on the re-
ception of this private public gentleman. We had prepared
a party of cavalry to receive him at Fishkill, on the suppo-
sition that he would set out with an escort from Boston;
but we have now sent orders to the party immediately to
take the route you mention to Hartford, and there place
themselves under your orders.
"The General requests you will make his respectful com-
pliments to your chevalier, and gives you carte blanche to
say every handsome thing you think proper in his name, of
the pleasure which this visit will give him. I have no doubt
that your portrait, which appears to be executed en maitre,
will be found a just representation of the original; and if he
vol. i. 29
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? 226 THE LIFE OF
is as happy as his predecessor in gaining the esteem and con-
fidence of the men of this country, with so many talents to
conciliate the leaders, his ministry will not be unsuccessful.
I augur well for him. General Washington proposes to
meet him, as a private gentleman, at Fishkill. "
The interview, at which Hamilton was present, was of
the highest importance. A full and candid statement was
given to the French minister of the resources and embar-
rassments of the nation; and he was duly impressed with
the importance of obtaining such aids as the finances of the
country required.
The rumoured approach of Count D'Estaing being soon
after confirmed by despatches from congress, Washington,
who had stationed Major Lee in Monmouth county, with
instructions to communicate to him the situation and force
of the enemy, and to propose some preliminary movements,
addressed a letter to the Count on the fourth of October,
informing him that he had called in reinforcements from
the neighbouring states, and that he was taking measures
to prepare for a co-operation, with all the despatch and
vigour his circumstances would permit, -- pointing out to
him in detail the situation of New-York and Rhode-Island;
suggesting the necessary measures to render an attempt in
either port successful; and disclosing, in an explicit man-
ner, all the difficulties attendant upon the enterprise.
On the seventh of October, he farther writes: " Since my
letter to your excellency on the fourth instant, I have had
the honour of a visit from his excellency Monsieur Gerard.
In the conversation we had relative to a co-operation with
the fleet and troops under your command, he expressed his
doubts of its being possible for you to continue such a length
of time as may be essential to the success of the undertaking,
and which alone could justify me in going into those exten-
sive preparations absolutely necessary on our part. I have,
therefore, appointed Brigadier General Du Portail and Co-
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? HAMILTON 227
bnel Hamilton to wait upon your excellency as speedily as
possible, and explain to you fully my ideas of the proposed
co-operation; the means we shall be able to employ; the
obstacles we shall have to encounter on our side; the plans
which it may be proper to pursue, and the measures which
are taking, and may be taken by the enemy to counteract
them. This will enable your excellency to determine what
you can with propriety undertake. I shall only add, that
if your excellency will engage to co-operate with your whole
naval and land force against the enemy's fleet and army at
New-York, till the winter is so far advanced, that the ice
will make it impracticable to remain with your fleet any
longer in port, I will bring twenty-five thousand effective
men into the field, and will exert all the resources of the
country in a vigorous and decided co-operation.
"Without this assurance on the part of your excellency, it
would be inconsistent with my duty to the public, and to
the common cause, to incur the expense and hazard which
would be inseparable from the enterprise, and the more
disagreeable consequences which would attend a failure.
I flatter myself your excellency will be fully sensible of the
weight of the reasons on which this declaration is founded,
and will approve the frankness with which it is made, and
with which I have instructed General Du Portail and Co-
lonel Hamilton to disclose to you every circumstance, and
every consideration, with which it is necessary you should
be acquainted. If your determination should be in favour
of the enterprise, I request you will honour me with a line
expressive of your ultimate intentions, and that you will
communicate to the gentlemen who now wait upon you, the
previous measures you propose to pursue, and your senti-
ments of the most eligible plan of co-operation. I shall act
in consequence, till the period arrives for concerting a final
and more determinate plan.
"I would now observe to your excellency, that you may
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? 228 THE LIFE OF
repose the most implicit confidence in General Du Portail
and Colonel Hamilton, and I accordingly recommend them
to your best civilities and esteem; and having done so, I
have only to renew the assurances of that sincere attach-
ment and perfect respect, with which I have the honour
to be,
"Your excellency's most obedient servant,
"George Washington. "
His Excellency Count D'Estaing.
The utmost interest was, at this moment, awakened
throughout the country. An interesting crisis was expect-
ed; and a long correspondence between Washington and
Hamilton ensued, as the various intelligence was received,
which would probably affect the intended enterprise. These
letters fully disclose the anxiety of the commander-in-chief,
to fulfil, by a decisive blow, the high wrought expectations
of the people. The enemy were, at this time, filled with
dismay. The fortifications at New-York were carried on
with the utmost activity; the garrisons were withdrawn
from the posts on the Hudson; and the troops stationed at
Newport, whom Washington had urged should be surprised,
were finally transferred to New-York.
But notwithstanding the most anxious solicitations to bring
the French admiral to a decision, it was ascertained that no
determinate resolution would be taken by him; and after
all the ardent hopes which had been encouraged, and the
mighty achievements which were to be performed, the
French fleet, early in the month of November, abandoned
the American coast, and proceeded to France ;-- thus ful-
filling the prophecy of Mr. Duane, "that the Count's planet
could not be trusted. "
All prospect of active operations by the main army hav-
ing ceased, Colonel Hamilton, weary of inactivity, and con-
vinced that the policy of the enemy would henceforth direct
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? HAMILTON. 229
their efforts to the subjugation of the weaker states, influ-
enced also by a desire to join his friend Laurens, and to
obtain a separate command, applied to Washington for per-
mission to proceed to the south; but the proposal did not
meet the views of the commander-in-chief, and his purpose
was relinquished.
The private letters which are to be found among Hamilton's
papers, written at this uninteresting period of the revolution,
have little other value than to exhibit the warm affections
which prevailed in the army towards him, especially among
the foreign officers, with whom his familiarity with their
language, and easy manners, placed him on the happiest
terms. Their situation, in a country as yet little advanced
in the arts of social life, was, to men of artificial habits,
educated amid all the luxuries of a court, often painful;
and they gladly availed themselves of his influence with the
commander-in-chief,--relating to him their thousand wants,
and making him the confidant of their little secrets. Often
as he was embarrassed by the extravagance of their expec-
tations, he seems always to have indulged the kindest feel-
ings towards them, and he frequently looked back to the
services which he had rendered to those gallant men, with
great satisfaction.
The introduction of these letters would too much inter-
rupt the progress of this narrative; but the following will
be perused with interest, as giving a brief but expressive
picture of the condition of the soldiers. It is from Fleury,
dated Light Infantry Camp, Highlands.
"DEAR COL.
"The officers of the two first battalions of light infantry,
which I actually command, have applied to me for leave to
run over these craggy mountains barefooted, and beg that I
would write to head quarters to have an order from his ex-
cellency to get a pare shoes for each. The shoes they
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? 230 the life or
hint to are at New-Windsor, and their intention is to pay
for.
"Do not be so greedy for shoes as for my blanket, and
think that the most urgent necessity has determined their
application. They are quite barefooted.
"N. B. As his excellency could form a very advantageous
idea of our condition in shoes, the appearance of the offi-
cers who dined to-day at head quarters and were not quite
without, I beg you would observe to him, if necessary, that
each company has furnished a shoe for their dressing"
This intimate intercourse with these gentlemen, was often
turned to a useful purpose. It enabled him to keep up a
correspondence with France, and gave him the channel for
many communications which reached her court, free from
all official formality. With Du Plessis, who was in favour,
he corresponded in cypher, and it is stated by Colonel
Fish, as one of the incidents of'this intimacy, that Hamilton
was the first person to suggest the introduction of a French
army into the United States. *
* In a memoir of Colonel Fish, of date March twenty-first, 1822, it is sta-
ted, "In one of our confidential conversations, Hamilton, speaking of the
Marquis La Fayette, said, 'The United States are under infinite obligations
to him beyond what is known, not only for his valour and good conduct as
major-general of our army, but for his good offices and influence in our behalf
with the court of France. The French army now here, co-operating with us,
would not have been in this country but through his means. ' He then said,
that for some considerable time previous to the arrival of the French army
under Count Rochambeau, he (Colonel Hamilton,) had conceived the idea
and had weighed in his own mind the propriety of such a measure, and hav-
ing satisfied himself on the subject, he had suggested the idea to the Marquis La
Fayette, expressing to him at the same time, not only the powerful effect that
would be produced in our army and country generally by the introduction of a
small military force from France to co-operate with us, but the increased effect
that would result should the Marquis himself be appointed to the command.
This project met a welcome reception, and after some explanatory remarks as
to the details of the plan, the Marquis, with all the zeal and promptitude which
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? HAMILTON. 231
The sprightly tone which these accomplished men im-
parted to the camp, only caused the absence of Laurens,
who added grace to every circle in which he moved, and
interest to every subject on which he spoke, and who, led
by attachment to his native state, had repaired to her amid
her difficulties, to be the more regretted.
On his departure from head quarters, Hamilton, who had
seen similar corps in the West Indies, which suggested the
idea of raising a body of black levies for the protection of
South Carolina, gave him the following letter of introduc-
tion to Mr. Jay.
HAMILTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
BEAR SIR,
Colonel Laurens, who will have the honour of delivering
you this letter, is on his way to South Carolina, on a pro-
ject which I think in the present situation of affairs there, is
a very good one, and deserves every kind of support and
encouragement. This is, to raise two, three, or four bat-
talions of negroes, with the assistance of the government of
that state, by contributions from the owners, in proportion
to the number they possess. If you should think proper to
enter upon the subject with him, he will give you a detail of
his plan. He wishes to have it recommended by congress
to the state, and as an inducement, that they would engage
to take their battalions into continental pay.
It appears to me, that an expedient of this kind in the
characterised him, addressed the French government and their ambassador
here on the subject, urging the advantages which would result to both nations
from having a French military force in this country. This proposition was
immediately patronized and enforced by the family and connexions of the Mar-
quis, which were then in power and great influence in France, and adopted by
that government. I deem it a duty incumbent on me, and a tribute due to his
memory, that the knowledge of this fact should be recorded as an additional
evidence of his pre-eminent services to his country. "
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? 232 THE LIFE OF
present state of southern affairs, is the most rational that
can be adopted, and promises very important advantages.
Indeed, I hardly see how a sufficient force can be collected
in that quarter without it; and the enemy's operations
there are growing infinitely serious and formidable. I have
not the least doubt that the negroes will make very excel-
lent soldiers, with proper management; and I will venture
to pronounce that they cannot be put in better hands than
those of Mr. Laurens. He has all the zeal, intelligence, and
enterprise, and every other qualification requisite to suc-
ceed in such an undertaking. It is a maxim with some
great military judges, that with sensible officers, soldiers
can hardly be too stupid; and on this principle it is thought
that the Russians would make the best soldiers in the world
if they were under other officers than their own. The
King of Prussia is among the number who maintains this
doctrine, and has a very emphatic saying on the occasion,
which I do not exactly recollect. I mention this because I
have frequently heard it objected to the scheme of embodying
negroes, that they are too stupid to make soldiers. This is
so far from appearing to me a valid objection, that I think
their want of cultivation, (for their natural faculties are pro-
bably as good as ours,) joined to that habit of subordination
which they acquire from a life of servitude, will enable
them sooner to become soldiers than our white inhabitants.
Let officers be men of sense and sentiment, and the nearer
the soldiers approach to machines, perhaps the better.
I foresee that this project will have to combat much oppo-
sition from prejudice and self-interest. The contempt we
have been taught 10 entertain for the blacks, makes us fan-
cy many things that are founded neither in reason nor ex-
perience; and an unwillingness to part with property of so
valuable a kind, will furnish a thousand arguments to show
the impracticability or pernicious tendency of a scheme
which requires such sacrifices. But it should be consider-
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? HAMILTON.
the army, the prospect of recruiting it, paying, clothing and
feeding it, the providing the necessary apparatus for offen-
sive operations; all these matters ought to be well and
maturely considered. On them every thing must depend;
and however reluctantly we yield, they will compel us to
conform to them, as by attempting impossibilities we shall
ruin our affairs.
If the third question is answered affirmatively, which it
is much to be feared cannot be done, then eventual prepa-
rations ought to be made for both. We shall then be best
able to act according to future circumstances; for though
it will be impossible to unite both objects in the execution,
yet in the event of the enemy's leaving these states, we
should be ready to strike an important blow for the effectual
security of our frontiers, and for opening a door to a far-
ther progress to Canada.
From the investigation of these points another question
may possibly result.
Will not the situation of our affairs, on account of the
depreciated condition of our currency, deficiency of bread,
scarcity of forage, the exhausted state of our resources in
the middle department, and the general distress of the in-
habitants, render it advisable for the main body of the
army to lie quiet in some favourable position for confining,
as much as possible, the enemy to their present posts,
(adopting, at the same time, the best means in our power
to scourge the Indians, and prevent their depredations,) in
order to save expenses, avoid new emissions, recruit our
finances, and give a proper tone to our money for more vi-
gorous measures hereafter?
In determining a plan of operations for next campaign,
much will depend on the prospect of European affairs;
what we have to expect from our friends; what they will
expect from us; and what the enemy will probably be able
to do. These points should be well weighed, and every
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? 212 THE LIFE OF
information concentered to throw light upon them. But
upon the whole, it will be the safest and most prudent way
to suppose the worst, and prepare for it.
"It is scarcely necessary to say, that the providing ample
supplies of arms, clothes, and ordnance stores, is essential,
and that an uncertain dependence may not only be hurtful,
but ruinous. Their importance demands that every possi-
ble expedient should be, without delay, adopted, towards
obtaining these articles in due season for the purposes of
next campaign.
"Heavy cannon, for posts in the Highlands, for battering,
and for vessels, if offensive measures are to be pursued,
must be immediately forwarded, and in considerable quan-
tity. Large mortars, with a sufficient apparatus, will also
be wanted.
"The completing the arrangement of the army, without
farther delay, is a matter of great importance, whatever
may be our plan. The want of this is the source of infinite
dissatisfaction to the officers in general, and continual per-
plexity to the commander-in-chief. The want of brigadiers
is a material inconvenience, and hath been the cause of
much relaxation of discipline, discontent, and loss, in sev-
eral instances. "
These remarks are followed by observations, indicating
changes in the ordnance department, as suggested by Ge-
neral Knox; in the clothing, and in the hospital depart-
ments. The immediate establishment of an inspectorship,
on a definite plan, is strongly urged; and an improved ar-
rangement of the engineering department. The communi-
cation closes with a reference to the situation of the offi-
cers, which is stated "to be so singularly hard, that the bare
mention of their case is sufficient to bring it home to the at-
tention and feeling of every man of reflection, and will leave
no doubt of the necessity of applying a remedy the most
speedy and effectual. "
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? HAMILTON. 213
The views taken in this paper, were the ground-work of
the deliberations of the committee; and the plan of a de-
fensive campaign, which was ultimately adopted, was en-
forced by various considerations.
The enemy's force, at New-York and Rhode Island, was
at this time about twelve thousand men. From the cir-
cular position of their posts, the strength of their fortifica-
tions, and their shipping, it was believed, that to a success-
ful attempt, double that number of effectives would be ne-
cessary. These, both from the rate of wages and the high
price of labour, it was impossible to get, beside the extreme
difficulty of providing subsistence and forage for so large
a force.
For an attack upon the frontier posts of the interior, a
body of permanent troops with auxiliaries, to the amount
of more than twenty thousand men, was deemed requisite;
for the transportation of whom, ships were to be built, boats
provided, and greater expense incurred, than would be ne-
cessary for an attack on New-York.
From the objections to these plans an expedition against
the Indians was free, and attended with much less expense,
while the country would, in the interval, be left to repose,
the disbursements of the year diminished -- a general sys-
tem of economy might be adopted, and enlistments made
to continue during the war.
But as to this latter course, indicated more by the na-
tional necessities than by any other considerations, there
were grounds of serious hesitation. "The very inactivity,
it was naturally feared, might be attributed to the weakness
of the United States, and thus affect their credit and import-
ance abroad, and produce a most serious effect on their
negotiations in Europe. It might also discourage the peo-
ple, inspirit the disaffected, and give time for the discon-
tented to combine and produce extensive divisions, while
a successful blow given to the enemy, in the reduced state
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? 214 THE LIFE OF
of the army, might compel them to evacuate the United
States, to which there would be little probability of their
return. " But to this the finances of the country were in-
competent; and it was believed no adequate force could
be assembled.
After a deliberate view of the subject, a defensive plan
was agreed upon, only to be departed from in the contin-
gency of such reinforcements from France, as would justi-
fy drawing on the resources of the country, to an extent
that would ensure the accomplishment of some capital
object.
For the better organization of the army, in addition to
the subjects previously submitted to the committee, the
adoption of measures to relieve the officers was a primary
consideration; and in a letter received from head quarters,
after stating "that the news of peace had diverted the minds
of the officers at Valley Forge," it was urged, in order " that
the officers should take pleasure in their situation, not mere-
ly endure it; which would render them an insipid and spi-
ritless mass, incapable of acting with vigour, and ready to
fall to pieces at every reverse of fortune;" that they should
be provided with clothing by public authority, at prices pro-
portioned to their pay: that the rations and subsistence
which they had received rendered their situation indigent
and miserable, and an expedient of a periodical valuation
of their rations was proposed. "To attach them heartily
to the service, their expectations of futurity must be inter-
ested. " With this view, a half-pay or pensionary establish-
ment for life was recommended, and not for a term of years,
on the ground, "that the officer looks beyond a limited pe-
riod, and naturally flatters himself that he will outlive it. "
The unpleasant restrictions which attended the resolves for
seven years were condemned; pensions for the widows of
the officers were recommended; and to the objection rais-
ed to pensions, that they were inconsistent with the maxims
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? HAMILTON. 215
of government, it was answered, "that it equally applied
to pensions for years as to those for lives. " "It is alike a
pension, in both cases; in one, for a fixed and determinate
period; in the other, for a contingent period. " Strongly as
these views were taken, it was nevertheless cautiously sug-
gested, "that the subject should not be brought forward un-
less certain of success; that it was a point on which the of-
ficers' feelings were much engaged, and should not be awa-
kened unless gratified. "
Within a few days after, a plan for a clothing depart-
ment was proposed, establishing a subordination of officers,
and recommending a distinct colour and uniform for each
state corps; to diminish the expense of competition for the
same colour; to distinguish the corps from each other; to
discriminate merit; and to prevent expense to the officers
by frequent changes.
It has been previously observed, that on the appointment
of Steuben, a brief plan of an inspectorship had been in
part adopted by congress in the spring of 1778. This plan
was subsequently modified and completed in the ensuing
month of September, when the number of the regiments
was allotted to each state.
The system then introduced, proved imperfect; and hav-
ing been agreed to in committee, on the twenty-eighth of
January of this year, a new plan for this department was
reported by the committee of conference to congress, and
passed on the eighteenth of February following. The re-
port exists among the archives of the government in a rough
state; the preamble in another hand, but the body of it,
with marks of alteration by him, in the autography of Ha-
milton; where may also be found a plan drawn up by him
for completing the regiments, and changing their establish-
ment, in which is a project for an annual draft. Induce-
ments for reinlistments, and the modes of supplying the
deficiency, are set forth with great perspicuity, giving the
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? 216 THE LIFE OF
general principles for such a procedure, which, in similar
emergencies, might be adopted with advantage.
While these topics were engaging their attention, con-
gress was called, by a communication from Mr. Arthur Lee,
and by a conference with the French minister, to a nego-
tiation with Spain, involving points of great moment, the
consideration of which is deferred to a subsequent part of
this narrative.
The inactivity of the preceding campaign, had induced a
general languor in the national legislature, which gave scope
to those dissensions from which public bodies, not acting
under the pressure of controlling circumstances, are rarely
free, and from which the short predatory invasion of Vir-
ginia, by General Matthews, and the remote, though inter-
esting events in Georgia and Carolina, were insufficient to
arouse them.
In early spring, the enemy, waiting reinforcements, were
content to harass and alarm the states adjacent to New-
York by sudden inroads, which did not advance in the least
the great object of the contest, but only served to increase
the horrors of war, by invading the unsuspicious security of
the settlements near the coast. These incursions were ag-
gravated by being chiefly undertaken by the American refu-
gees; who, forgetting their duty to their country, discarded
all regard to the obligations of humanity, and evincing the
cruelty, without the courage of other freebooters, rendered
doubly afflicting this border warfare.
Among other acts of this character, the expedition of
Tryon into Connecticut, and an attack upon Tarrytown,
were most conspicuous; and being conducted, in these in-
stances, by officers of the regular army, excited the loudest
clamour.
The debateable ground of Westchester, had long been a
scene of the most wanton enormities. There parties were
regularly organized, under the singular denominations of
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? HAMILTON. 217
skinners and cow-boys; and as a natural consequence of
this petty warfare, long continued, a great part of the com-
munity were demoralized, and each combination formed
itself into regular bands of depredators.
But the principal seat of these outrages was in the lower
districtsof New-Jersey, which be ingeasily accessible through
its numerous inlets from the ocean, and having a sparse po-
pulation, was kept in constant alarm. Small vessels were
seen continually hovering along the coast, which made in
upon them at midnight, carried off all the plunder they could
find, fired the houses, murdered all who resisted, and perpe-
trated shocking barbarities. Bands of robbers roamed over
the less frequented regions, and along the barrens, who,
excited to cruelty by their conflicts with the militia, mark-
ed their path with rapine and with blood.
The vigilance exerted by Governor Livingston, and the
necessary severity exercised upon these outlaws, rendered
him an object of their particular hostility, and plans were
frequently formed to seize his person. On one occasion,
intelligence of his being at a certain spot was given, a party
was embodied to carry him off, and two men, bolder than
the others, were sent forward to watch his movements. Ac-
cident saved him. In the habit of riding at sunrise, he had,
on the appointed day, awakened sooner than usual, and had
just passed the place selected for his capture or destruction,
when the party made their appearance a few moments too
late. At another time a project was devised for carrying
off the speaker* of the New-Jersey legislature, which was
nearly successful.
A similar design was formed on the person of Washing-
ton. He had appointed to meet some officers at a desig-
nated place. Information was given by a female in the
tory interest, and the necessary arrangements were made
* Mr. Homblower.
vol. i. 28
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? 218 THE LIFE OF
to seize him; but timely intelligence* frustrated the at-
tempt.
A more serious impression was made by a letter of Go-
vernor Livingston, written about this time to Sir Henry
Clinton, alleging that he had the most authentic proofs of a
general officer under his command having offered a large sum
for his assassination in case he could not be taken alive,
and intimating that the person of General Clinton might be
reached in retaliation, but exempting him from all know-
ledge of this atrocious proposal. It is due to justice to state,
that this charge was met on the part of the English com-
mander with an explicit and indignant denial.
The repetition of these attempts suggested the idea of
making Sir Henry Clinton a prisoner; and a plan for this
purpose was devised and submitted to General Washing-
ton. The British general was then occupying a house near
the Battery, in New-York, situate a few yards from the
Hudson river. Intelligence, through spies, had been ob-
tained of the approaches to his bed-chamber. Light whale-
boats, with muffled oars, were to be placed under the com-
mand of Colonel Humphreys, of Connecticut; and the par-
ty, in full preparation, were waiting anxiously the approach
of night for the execution of their purpose.
Colonel Hamilton, in the interval, became informed of the
intended enterprise. He observed to General Washington
"that there could be little doubt of its success: but, sir,"
said he, "have you examined the consequences of it V The
General inquired, " in what respect? " "Why," replied Ha-
milton, " it has occurred to me that we shall rather lose
* A partizan officer, a native of New-York, called at the shop of Mulligan
late in the evening, to obtain a watch-coat. The late hour awakened curio-
sity. After some inquiries, the officer vauntingly boasted, that, before another
day, they would have his rebel General in their hands. This staunch patriot,
as soon as the officer left him, hastened unobserved to the wharf, and des-
patched a billet by a negro, giving information of the design.
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? HAMILTON. 219
than gain, by removing Sir Henry Clinton from the com-
mand of the British army, because we perfectly understand
his character; and, by taking him off, we only make way
for some other, perhaps an abler officer, whose character
and dispositions we have to learn. " The General acknow-
ledged the force of the objection, and abandoned the project.
The several occurrences which have been referred to,
together with the more serious devastations committed at
various points along the sea-board, as well as those in the
interior, produced a stronger excitement in congress than
in the army. For, it is among the remarkable incidents of
this Revolution, that the military influence was constantly
exerted to check the civil authorities in their disposition to
retaliate; and that in their disinclination to carry into effect
the severe orders of congress, the army in numerous in-
stances incurred almost the reproach of insubordination.
Cold speculations on the past have reproved this want of
vigour; but who would willingly add another instance of
retaliation to those to which his countrymen were reluct-
antly compelled?
Of the force of this feeling with some members of con-
gress, the following report, called the "Burning Report,"
from the hand of Mr. Gouverneur Morrif, is a strong illus-
tration.
"Your committee, to whom was referred General Wash-
ington's letter of the thirteenth of July, 1779, with the en-
closures, beg leave to report the following draft of a letter
from the President to the minister plenipotentiary of the
United States at the court of Versailles:
"SIR,
The burning of Suffolk in Virginia, Fairfield, East Haven,
Green Farms, Norwalk in Connecticut, together with the
ravages committed in Georgia and South Carolina, form a
cruel commentary upon the proclamation of the British com-
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? 220 THE LIFE OF
missioners. This proclamation was defended in their par-
liament, as meaning no more than that in future the war
was to be carried on against America as against other na-
tions. It becomes, therefore, a common cause of all nations
to punish a people who so daringly violate the rights of hu-
manity: and it is particularly incumbent upon the United
States, as well to check their present barbarities as to con-
form to the manifesto published in answer to the procla-
mation above mentioned, and to deter all others, by striking
examples, from a breach of those laws which are held sacred
among civilized nations. I am, therefore, to instruct you,
that you employ incendiaries to set fire to the capital of the
British dominions, particularly the royal palace, and to such
other towns in Great Britain as may be most expedient;
and that as soon as some great object of this sort can be ac-
complished, you do in a proper manifesto avow the same as
having been by the order of congress --declare that they
are determined at all times to meet their enemies, in what-
ever kind of war they shall choose to carry on, whether it
be of civilized or of savage nations, and call upon all the
powers of Europe, who may have formerly suffered by the
pride and cruelty of Great Britain, or who feel a just indig-
nation at her present conduct, to join their efforts in vindica-
ting the insulted laws of humanity. I am," &c.
It was read on the second of August, 1779; but it is hard-
ly necessary to add, was never acted upon.
Towards the last of the month of May, indications were
given of designs of a more formidable character; and as
the only probable objects of the enemy were either the
fortifications in the Highlands, or an attempt to take a
position between the different bodies of the American
army, and to attack them in detail, Washington moved his
principal force then at Middlebrook to Smith's Clove, on
the west side of the Hudson, whence immediate reinforce-
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? HAMILTON. 221
merits could be sent in case of an attack upon West
Point.
Events soon proved the wisdom of this precaution. Sir
Henry Clinton, on the return of a detachment from the
South, moved up the Hudson, and made a sudden descent
on Stony Point, which was abandoned. On the following
day he reduced Fort La Fayette, and leaving a sufficient
force to strengthen the works, deterred by the proximity
of General Washington, relinquished his designs upon
West Point, the great object of his movement, and re-
turned to New-York.
These positions being the keys of the Highlands, and
commanding the only ferry in that vicinity, were esteemed
of too great importance to be permitted to remain in the
hands of the enemy, and it was determined to retake
them.
The possession of Stony Point, -- a rugged acclivity,
which stretches so far into the channel of the Hudson, as
to give to its upper waters the appearance of a lake
embosomed in a vast and magnificent amphitheatre of
mountains, commands the opposite fortress. Its reduction
was confided to General Wayne, at the head of the light
infantry. After taking every precaution to conceal his
purpose, and issuing imperative orders to his men to hold
their fire, he succeeded in surprising the garrison at mid-
night, and with a trifling loss, notwithstanding numerous
obstructions, and amid a heavy fire of musketry and grape,
entered the works at the point of the bayonet, without
having discharged a shot.
Colonel Fleury, a young and titled soldier of France,
whose ardent courage and admirable temper endeared him
to the army, was the first to enter the fort and strike the
British standard; and with two others of the advanced
party alone survived. Wayne, whose impetuous spirit had
given him the epithet among his soldiers of "mad Anthony,"
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? 222 THE LIFE OF
received a wound in his head, and supposing it would
terminate fatally, entreated his aids to convey him to the
fort, there to die; but the wound proved slight, and this
gallant officer, who had been foremost in every preceding
action, lived to add laurel upon laurel to his fame, until
not an officer in the army could boast a prouder name. *
The British general, either finding little glory to be won
in New-England, or intent on the possession of these
fortresses, with a view to some ulterior object, hastened to
their recovery. Washington, unwilling to diminish his
army by detaching a force adequate to their support,
reluctantly determined to evacuate them; and adhering to
his defensive system, established his head-quarters at West
Point.
A letter from Mr. Duane, a delegate in congress from
New-York, with whom Colonel Hamilton had formed an
intimacy, thus refers to these incidents:
"DEAR SIR,
Accept my thanks for your favour of the twenty-eighth
of August, and your obliging assurances that you will com-
ply with my request. Unless my anxiety in the events of
the campaign had been very great, I should not have been
so unreasonable as to impose this burthen on any of my
much respected friends at head quarters, well knowing
that they, of all others, have the least leisure. I find the
British reinforcement is arrived.
To me it brings no ter-
ror, as I think we have the strongest evidence that it was
not originally intended to exceed four thousand men, and
* The report of this brilliant affair to congress, prepared by Hamilton, gives
a vivid account of this attack. That body had previously expressed their sense
of the importance of the attempt; (June 11th, 1779,) they adopted resolutions,
ordering medals to be struck in honour of Wayne, Colonel Fleury, and Major
Stewart, and directed the value of the stores captured to be divided among
the troops.
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? HAMILTON. 223
these raw recruits. You say Wayne is still safe. Let
him keep a sharp look out; for I still hold the opinion that
Sir Henry Clinton is bound in honour to chastise him for
one of the most daring and insolent assaults that is to be
found in the records of chivalry: an achievement so bril-
liant in itself, so romantic in the scale of British admira-
tion, that none but a hero, inspired by the fortitude, in-
structed by the wisdom, and guided by the planet of Wash-
ington, could, by the exploit at Paulus Hook,* have furnish-
ed materials in the page of history to give it a parallel. * *
* * * You see, from this, how much I am at my ease.
To know the value of domestic enjoyment, next to head
quarters, I recommend the chair at the board of treasury
for ten months of a session, in which both our friends and
foes are waging a successful war against the public credit.
Present my affectionate regard to his excellency and the
family, and believe me, with every friendly sentiment, your
affectionate and devoted servant,
James Duane. "
In another letter of the sixteenth of September the same
gentleman observes, "I perfectly agree in opinion with you
what the enemy ought, in good policy, to attempt; but they
uniformly contravene their best interest, and pursue mea-
sures which can produce the least possible advantage. I
think I intimated to you, that I should not be surprised, if
Count D'Estaing paid a visit to us early this fall. Reports
prevail which announce his approach. In that case, they
will be as safe in New-York as at Savannah or Charles-
ton, and it is no slander to say lhat the safety of their army
has all along been their first object. What will the world
think of our spirit and resources, when, at the very instant
our enemies, foreign and domestic, pronounce our imme-
* Referring to the daring achievement of Major Lee.
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? 224 THE LIFE OF
diate ruin, from the embarrassment of our finances and a
train of heavy calamities, they see their grand army cooped
up in garrison, their forts taken from them by unparalleled
valour, the country of their savage allies ravaged and de-
stroyed without a single effort for their protection, and a
capital naval armament, equipped by a single state, which
it required misconduct perhaps on our part, and certainly
the most hazardous efforts on theirs, to defeat? The con-
dition of our enemies, instead of being formidable, as they
predicted, seems daily to become more feeble, and instead
of the vigorous and decisive operations which can alone
have revived their declining cause and kept up the spi-
rits of their infatuated adherents, we see nothing but lan-
guor, discontent, and disgust, in their army, their fleets, and
their councils. Their king alone, as if hardened by a judi-
cial blindness, persists in his obstinate folly, and courts the
destruction of the British empire. If, in addition to this,
sickness has taken a deep root among his troops, a decisive
period must, in all probability, speedily be put to their mad
career.
"Count D'Estaing appears to have the ball at his feet.
His command of the ocean must be undisputed, when he is
joined by the Spanish squadron lately at Havannah. He
may divide his force, subdue the West India Islands, and
assist us in capturing the remnant of our enemies on this
continent. I have, however, some distrust of the Count's
planet. His former ill luck on our coast has led me to
think that he is no Felix. How do you like the new minis-
ter from France V
The gentleman here referred to was Monsieur de la Lu-
zerne, who is thus briefly noticed in a letter from Baron
Steuben to Colonel Hamilton.
"M. de la Luzerne desires me to join him on his route,
to accompany him to head quarters. I shall depart on Tues-
day morning for Providence, where I shall require three
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? HAMILTON. 225
days to review the regiments; after which I shall return
immediately to Hartford to join the minister.
"I promised to give you a picture of his new excellency.
He is about thirty-six years of age, though he appears
younger. In the last war he was aid-de-camp to Marshal
Broglio. He appears to me to be a man of solid sense, and
less presumptuous than the people of quality of that country
usually are. His manners are prepossessing; and they
would be more so if he could speak English. His charac-
ter appears to me good; and he is less reserved than Euro-
pean ministers usually are. His personal appearance will
not displease the ladies of Philadelphia. He is a young
chevalier of Malta, who is not so much imbrowned by his
crusades, but that the American beauties will take pains to
teach him English in a short time. His secretary, M. de
Marbois, is a counsellor of Parliament, from Metz in Lor-
raine -- speaks good English; and is a man who shows much
information and judgement. " Hamilton briefly replied:
"Dear Baron -- I am at this moment honoured with
your letter of the 30th ultimo, and have communicated that
part of it which concerns M. de la Luzerne to the General;
agreeably to which we shall take our measures on the re-
ception of this private public gentleman. We had prepared
a party of cavalry to receive him at Fishkill, on the suppo-
sition that he would set out with an escort from Boston;
but we have now sent orders to the party immediately to
take the route you mention to Hartford, and there place
themselves under your orders.
"The General requests you will make his respectful com-
pliments to your chevalier, and gives you carte blanche to
say every handsome thing you think proper in his name, of
the pleasure which this visit will give him. I have no doubt
that your portrait, which appears to be executed en maitre,
will be found a just representation of the original; and if he
vol. i. 29
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? 226 THE LIFE OF
is as happy as his predecessor in gaining the esteem and con-
fidence of the men of this country, with so many talents to
conciliate the leaders, his ministry will not be unsuccessful.
I augur well for him. General Washington proposes to
meet him, as a private gentleman, at Fishkill. "
The interview, at which Hamilton was present, was of
the highest importance. A full and candid statement was
given to the French minister of the resources and embar-
rassments of the nation; and he was duly impressed with
the importance of obtaining such aids as the finances of the
country required.
The rumoured approach of Count D'Estaing being soon
after confirmed by despatches from congress, Washington,
who had stationed Major Lee in Monmouth county, with
instructions to communicate to him the situation and force
of the enemy, and to propose some preliminary movements,
addressed a letter to the Count on the fourth of October,
informing him that he had called in reinforcements from
the neighbouring states, and that he was taking measures
to prepare for a co-operation, with all the despatch and
vigour his circumstances would permit, -- pointing out to
him in detail the situation of New-York and Rhode-Island;
suggesting the necessary measures to render an attempt in
either port successful; and disclosing, in an explicit man-
ner, all the difficulties attendant upon the enterprise.
On the seventh of October, he farther writes: " Since my
letter to your excellency on the fourth instant, I have had
the honour of a visit from his excellency Monsieur Gerard.
In the conversation we had relative to a co-operation with
the fleet and troops under your command, he expressed his
doubts of its being possible for you to continue such a length
of time as may be essential to the success of the undertaking,
and which alone could justify me in going into those exten-
sive preparations absolutely necessary on our part. I have,
therefore, appointed Brigadier General Du Portail and Co-
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? HAMILTON 227
bnel Hamilton to wait upon your excellency as speedily as
possible, and explain to you fully my ideas of the proposed
co-operation; the means we shall be able to employ; the
obstacles we shall have to encounter on our side; the plans
which it may be proper to pursue, and the measures which
are taking, and may be taken by the enemy to counteract
them. This will enable your excellency to determine what
you can with propriety undertake. I shall only add, that
if your excellency will engage to co-operate with your whole
naval and land force against the enemy's fleet and army at
New-York, till the winter is so far advanced, that the ice
will make it impracticable to remain with your fleet any
longer in port, I will bring twenty-five thousand effective
men into the field, and will exert all the resources of the
country in a vigorous and decided co-operation.
"Without this assurance on the part of your excellency, it
would be inconsistent with my duty to the public, and to
the common cause, to incur the expense and hazard which
would be inseparable from the enterprise, and the more
disagreeable consequences which would attend a failure.
I flatter myself your excellency will be fully sensible of the
weight of the reasons on which this declaration is founded,
and will approve the frankness with which it is made, and
with which I have instructed General Du Portail and Co-
lonel Hamilton to disclose to you every circumstance, and
every consideration, with which it is necessary you should
be acquainted. If your determination should be in favour
of the enterprise, I request you will honour me with a line
expressive of your ultimate intentions, and that you will
communicate to the gentlemen who now wait upon you, the
previous measures you propose to pursue, and your senti-
ments of the most eligible plan of co-operation. I shall act
in consequence, till the period arrives for concerting a final
and more determinate plan.
"I would now observe to your excellency, that you may
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? 228 THE LIFE OF
repose the most implicit confidence in General Du Portail
and Colonel Hamilton, and I accordingly recommend them
to your best civilities and esteem; and having done so, I
have only to renew the assurances of that sincere attach-
ment and perfect respect, with which I have the honour
to be,
"Your excellency's most obedient servant,
"George Washington. "
His Excellency Count D'Estaing.
The utmost interest was, at this moment, awakened
throughout the country. An interesting crisis was expect-
ed; and a long correspondence between Washington and
Hamilton ensued, as the various intelligence was received,
which would probably affect the intended enterprise. These
letters fully disclose the anxiety of the commander-in-chief,
to fulfil, by a decisive blow, the high wrought expectations
of the people. The enemy were, at this time, filled with
dismay. The fortifications at New-York were carried on
with the utmost activity; the garrisons were withdrawn
from the posts on the Hudson; and the troops stationed at
Newport, whom Washington had urged should be surprised,
were finally transferred to New-York.
But notwithstanding the most anxious solicitations to bring
the French admiral to a decision, it was ascertained that no
determinate resolution would be taken by him; and after
all the ardent hopes which had been encouraged, and the
mighty achievements which were to be performed, the
French fleet, early in the month of November, abandoned
the American coast, and proceeded to France ;-- thus ful-
filling the prophecy of Mr. Duane, "that the Count's planet
could not be trusted. "
All prospect of active operations by the main army hav-
ing ceased, Colonel Hamilton, weary of inactivity, and con-
vinced that the policy of the enemy would henceforth direct
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? HAMILTON. 229
their efforts to the subjugation of the weaker states, influ-
enced also by a desire to join his friend Laurens, and to
obtain a separate command, applied to Washington for per-
mission to proceed to the south; but the proposal did not
meet the views of the commander-in-chief, and his purpose
was relinquished.
The private letters which are to be found among Hamilton's
papers, written at this uninteresting period of the revolution,
have little other value than to exhibit the warm affections
which prevailed in the army towards him, especially among
the foreign officers, with whom his familiarity with their
language, and easy manners, placed him on the happiest
terms. Their situation, in a country as yet little advanced
in the arts of social life, was, to men of artificial habits,
educated amid all the luxuries of a court, often painful;
and they gladly availed themselves of his influence with the
commander-in-chief,--relating to him their thousand wants,
and making him the confidant of their little secrets. Often
as he was embarrassed by the extravagance of their expec-
tations, he seems always to have indulged the kindest feel-
ings towards them, and he frequently looked back to the
services which he had rendered to those gallant men, with
great satisfaction.
The introduction of these letters would too much inter-
rupt the progress of this narrative; but the following will
be perused with interest, as giving a brief but expressive
picture of the condition of the soldiers. It is from Fleury,
dated Light Infantry Camp, Highlands.
"DEAR COL.
"The officers of the two first battalions of light infantry,
which I actually command, have applied to me for leave to
run over these craggy mountains barefooted, and beg that I
would write to head quarters to have an order from his ex-
cellency to get a pare shoes for each. The shoes they
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? 230 the life or
hint to are at New-Windsor, and their intention is to pay
for.
"Do not be so greedy for shoes as for my blanket, and
think that the most urgent necessity has determined their
application. They are quite barefooted.
"N. B. As his excellency could form a very advantageous
idea of our condition in shoes, the appearance of the offi-
cers who dined to-day at head quarters and were not quite
without, I beg you would observe to him, if necessary, that
each company has furnished a shoe for their dressing"
This intimate intercourse with these gentlemen, was often
turned to a useful purpose. It enabled him to keep up a
correspondence with France, and gave him the channel for
many communications which reached her court, free from
all official formality. With Du Plessis, who was in favour,
he corresponded in cypher, and it is stated by Colonel
Fish, as one of the incidents of'this intimacy, that Hamilton
was the first person to suggest the introduction of a French
army into the United States. *
* In a memoir of Colonel Fish, of date March twenty-first, 1822, it is sta-
ted, "In one of our confidential conversations, Hamilton, speaking of the
Marquis La Fayette, said, 'The United States are under infinite obligations
to him beyond what is known, not only for his valour and good conduct as
major-general of our army, but for his good offices and influence in our behalf
with the court of France. The French army now here, co-operating with us,
would not have been in this country but through his means. ' He then said,
that for some considerable time previous to the arrival of the French army
under Count Rochambeau, he (Colonel Hamilton,) had conceived the idea
and had weighed in his own mind the propriety of such a measure, and hav-
ing satisfied himself on the subject, he had suggested the idea to the Marquis La
Fayette, expressing to him at the same time, not only the powerful effect that
would be produced in our army and country generally by the introduction of a
small military force from France to co-operate with us, but the increased effect
that would result should the Marquis himself be appointed to the command.
This project met a welcome reception, and after some explanatory remarks as
to the details of the plan, the Marquis, with all the zeal and promptitude which
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? HAMILTON. 231
The sprightly tone which these accomplished men im-
parted to the camp, only caused the absence of Laurens,
who added grace to every circle in which he moved, and
interest to every subject on which he spoke, and who, led
by attachment to his native state, had repaired to her amid
her difficulties, to be the more regretted.
On his departure from head quarters, Hamilton, who had
seen similar corps in the West Indies, which suggested the
idea of raising a body of black levies for the protection of
South Carolina, gave him the following letter of introduc-
tion to Mr. Jay.
HAMILTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
BEAR SIR,
Colonel Laurens, who will have the honour of delivering
you this letter, is on his way to South Carolina, on a pro-
ject which I think in the present situation of affairs there, is
a very good one, and deserves every kind of support and
encouragement. This is, to raise two, three, or four bat-
talions of negroes, with the assistance of the government of
that state, by contributions from the owners, in proportion
to the number they possess. If you should think proper to
enter upon the subject with him, he will give you a detail of
his plan. He wishes to have it recommended by congress
to the state, and as an inducement, that they would engage
to take their battalions into continental pay.
It appears to me, that an expedient of this kind in the
characterised him, addressed the French government and their ambassador
here on the subject, urging the advantages which would result to both nations
from having a French military force in this country. This proposition was
immediately patronized and enforced by the family and connexions of the Mar-
quis, which were then in power and great influence in France, and adopted by
that government. I deem it a duty incumbent on me, and a tribute due to his
memory, that the knowledge of this fact should be recorded as an additional
evidence of his pre-eminent services to his country. "
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? 232 THE LIFE OF
present state of southern affairs, is the most rational that
can be adopted, and promises very important advantages.
Indeed, I hardly see how a sufficient force can be collected
in that quarter without it; and the enemy's operations
there are growing infinitely serious and formidable. I have
not the least doubt that the negroes will make very excel-
lent soldiers, with proper management; and I will venture
to pronounce that they cannot be put in better hands than
those of Mr. Laurens. He has all the zeal, intelligence, and
enterprise, and every other qualification requisite to suc-
ceed in such an undertaking. It is a maxim with some
great military judges, that with sensible officers, soldiers
can hardly be too stupid; and on this principle it is thought
that the Russians would make the best soldiers in the world
if they were under other officers than their own. The
King of Prussia is among the number who maintains this
doctrine, and has a very emphatic saying on the occasion,
which I do not exactly recollect. I mention this because I
have frequently heard it objected to the scheme of embodying
negroes, that they are too stupid to make soldiers. This is
so far from appearing to me a valid objection, that I think
their want of cultivation, (for their natural faculties are pro-
bably as good as ours,) joined to that habit of subordination
which they acquire from a life of servitude, will enable
them sooner to become soldiers than our white inhabitants.
Let officers be men of sense and sentiment, and the nearer
the soldiers approach to machines, perhaps the better.
I foresee that this project will have to combat much oppo-
sition from prejudice and self-interest. The contempt we
have been taught 10 entertain for the blacks, makes us fan-
cy many things that are founded neither in reason nor ex-
perience; and an unwillingness to part with property of so
valuable a kind, will furnish a thousand arguments to show
the impracticability or pernicious tendency of a scheme
which requires such sacrifices. But it should be consider-
? ? Generated for (University of Chicago) on 2014-08-20 04:05 GMT / http://hdl. handle. net/2027/uva. x000275470 Public Domain, Google-digitized / http://www. hathitrust. org/access_use#pd-google
? HAMILTON.
