ALS signed “A. Hamilton,” one page, 8 x 10, December 20, 1798. Handwritten letter by Alexander Hamilton to Secretary of War James McHenry, marked "Private," written by Hamilton in his capacity as Inspector General of the Army. In full: "I am this moment favoured with your letter of the 18th instant and thank you for the ideas personal to me. Mr. Laurance, somewhat abruptly, regrets that I promoted his son's nomination, as it was his desire that he should continue to pursue his profession. As I could not divine this desire of his, he certainly had no cause of displeasure with me. In case Laurance's name is witheld at the request of his father, I should be glad to see Young Harrison (the son of our district Attorney and a clever young man—about 20 already admitted to the bar) in his place. I do not mean as high up on the list." Addressed on the reverse in Hamilton's hand, and annotated by a captain of the first regiment. In fine condition, with light toning from prior display, and seal-related paper loss to the integral address leaf.
Following his important and influential term as Secretary of the Treasury in Washington's administration, Hamilton served as Inspector General of the Army with rank of major general from July 19, 1798 to December 14, 1799, when he became senior officer in the Army after the death of Washington. Here, he intercedes on behalf of his friend, business partner, and political associate, Senator John Laurance of New York. Instead of Laurance's son, he would prefer to nominate George F. Harrison, the son of District Attorney Richard Harrison. A desirable autograph letter by Alexander Hamilton to a fellow Founding Father, demonstrating his influence and political pull at the turn of the 18th century.
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