Alexander Hamilton

One page (8 3/4 x 7 1/4 in.; 223 x 184 mm), [New York], 9 February [1788], filing docket on verso; small seal tear and repair, minor repair to horizontal folds. Tipped to a larger sheet.

The Papers of Alexander Hamilton, ed. Syrett, 4:507–508

One page (8 3/4 x 7 1/4 in.; 223 x 184 mm), [New York], 9 February [1788], filing docket on verso; small seal tear and repair, minor repair to horizontal folds. Tipped to a larger sheet.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Hamilton sends a brief note in support of an application of Nicholas Carmer of New York City. “An application will be made to the Council of appointment by Mr. Nicholas Carmer of this city; an ancient and respectable inhabitant; for the appointment of an Inspector of Mahogany and other lumber for this City—I recommend him, on every account, to your patronage.” The New York Council of Appointment consisted of four senators, one from each district in the state, and had full powers of appointment. At the time of this letter, the members were John Vanderbilt, Anthony Hoffman, David Hopkins, and Philip Schuyler; Governor George Clinton was ex officio the presiding officer of the Council. It is most likely that Hamilton would have sent this candid letter to his father-in-law.

The more significant portion of the letter is Hamilton’s laconic comment on the ratification of the Constitution by Massachusetts, whose ratifying convention had approved the new charter by a vote of 187 to 168 three days earlier: “The mail of this Evening I am informed brings the most favourable accounts from Massachusettes. I [“begin” struck through] am inclined to consider the favourable issue of things there as reduced to a certainty.”