New-Windsor, Dec. 27, 1780.
Dear Hamilton:
Your letter of the 19th came safe by the Doctor, who set out this
morning for Philadelphia.
I had, previous to the receipt of it, and without knowledge that the
Board of War had given any direction respecting the Armory at Albany,
requested the Governor to exempt (if he could do so with propriety) the
citizens who were employed in it, from military services in case of
alarm; and had written to General Clinton to direct the Quarter-Master
to afford every assistance in his power to have the work repaired, and
the business, as far as depended upon him, accelerated. I have now
given order for delivery of such hides as Mr. Rensselaer shall find
_absolutely_ necessary for the use of the Armory.
Although a trip to Albany, on more accounts than one, would be
perfectly agreeable to my wishes, I am so far from having it in my
power, at this time, to fix a period for this gratification of them,
that I have but small hope of accomplishing it at all this winter.
There are some matters in suspense which may make a journey to Rhode
Island necessary; but as the subject is not fit for a letter, I shall
withhold the communication till I see you.
A second embarkation has taken place at New-York. The strength of the
detachment, or its destination, are vaguely reported; and no certainty
under whose command it goes. Arnold is said to be of it; from whence
the connections conclude that New-Haven or New-London must infallibly
be the object, while more rational conjecturers send it to the
southward, from whence no late accounts have been received.
Mrs. Washington most cordially joins me in compliments of
congratulation to Mrs. Hamilton and yourself, on the late happy event
of your marriage, and in wishes to see you both at head quarters. We
beg of you to present our respectful compliments to General Schuyler,
his lady and family, and offer them strong assurances of the pleasure
we should feel at seeing them at New-Windsor.
With much truth, and great personal regard,
I am, dear Hamilton,
Your affectionate friend and servant,
G. Washington.