Beschreibung:

HAMILTON, Alexander. Autograph letter signed ("A.H.") to his wife Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton, Albany, 24 February [1800]. 1 page 4to, matted and framed, with an engraved portrait . HAMILTON SARCASTICALLY JOKES ABOUT RIVAL AARON BURR'S "CONVERSION TO FEDERALISM" Hamilton's fatal enmity towards Aaron Burr is palpable in this letter, which touches on both domestic affections and the hard world of New York politics: "I wrote to you my beloved from Poughke[epsie] by post and yesterday immediately on my arrival by Mr. Ephraim Hank of the tribe of Benjamin or Judah. This letter enclosed one for Mr. Bayard. I hope it was received & forwarded. Mr. Burr, as a proof of his conversion to federalism, has within a fortnight taken a very active and officious part against Rensselaer in favor of Clinton. Tell this to Mr. Church. And let me tell you what is of much more importance to you that I am in very good health though not in as good spirits as when I am with my beloved family. Remember me affectionately to Angelica and accept many kisses for yourself and give one to each of my Children." Hamilton is disdainful of Burr's party loyalty (as he is slightly mocking towards the Jewish Mr. Hank): Clinton was the Jeffersonian candidate against Van Renssalaer in the New York gubernatorial election of 1800. Renssalaer was also Hamilton's brother-in-law, as was "Mr. Church," John B. Church, a wealthy British businessman who helped supply the American and French forces during the revolution, and who became Hamilton's business agent in London after the war. "Mr. Bayard," William Bayard, played a pivotal role in the final chapter of Hamilton's life. It was to Bayard's home on 80 Jane Street that Hamilton's seconds took him after the duel with Burr on July 11, 1804, and where he died the following afternoon.