Boston, October 12, 1780.
I was much obliged to you, my dear sir, for the letter which you did me
the favor to write me since your return to Boston. I am sorry to find
that the same spirit of indifference to public affairs prevails. It is
necessary we should rouse, and begin to do our business in earnest, or
we shall play a losing game. It is impossible the contest can be much
longer supported on the present footing. We must have a Government with
more power. We must have a tax in kind. We must have a foreign loan.
We must have a Bank, on the true principles of a Bank. We must have
an Administration distinct from Congress, and in the hands of single
men under their orders. We must, above all things, have an army for
the war, and an establishment that will interest the officers in the
service.
Congress are deliberating on our military affairs: but I apprehend
their resolutions will be tinctured with the old spirit. We seem to be
proof against experience. They will, however, recommend an army for the
war, at least as a primary object. All those who love their country,
ought to exert their influence in the States where they reside, to
determine them to take up this object with energy. The States must sink
under the burden of temporary enlistments; and the enemy will conquer
us by degrees during the intervals of our weakness.
Clinton is now said to be making a considerable detachment to the
southward. My fears are high, my hopes low. We are told here, there
is to be a Congress of the neutral powers at the Hague, for mediating
of peace. God send it may be true. We want it: but if the idea goes
abroad, ten to one if we do not fancy the thing done, and fall into a
profound sleep till the cannon of the enemy awaken us next campaign.
This is our national character.
I am, with great regard, dear Sir,
Your most obedient servant,
A. Hamilton.