Albany, February 5, 1781.
Dear Sir:
The plan you mention for supplying the armies in America, I should
be exceedingly happy to see attempted; but I fear Congress will not
venture on it, although they should be convinced of its eligibility.
In the course of last year, I proposed it repeatedly to individual
members, who generally approved, and once or twice took occasion to
mention it in Congress; but in the House no one dared to give his
opinion. I am persuaded, if it was adopted, that a saving, at present
almost inconceivable, would be induced, and an order and economy in the
public expenditures, which, whilst it would reconcile the minds of men
to bear the public burthens with alacrity, would effectually eradicate
the fears which too generally prevail, that we shall sink under the
enormous weight of our expenses. * * *
I am, my dear Sir,
Very affectionately,
Yours, etc., etc.,
Ph: Schuyler.
Colonel Hamilton.