Albany, August 27, 1782.
I thank you, my dear Meade, for your letter of the first of this month,
which you will perceive has travelled much faster than has been usual
with our letters. Our correspondence, hitherto, has been unfortunate;
nor, in fact, can either of us compliment himself on his punctuality;
but you were right in concluding, that however indolence, or accident,
may interrupt our intercourse, nothing will interrupt our friendship.
Mine for you is built on the solid basis of a full conviction that you
deserve it, and that it is reciprocal; and it is the more firmly fixed
because you have few competitors. Experience is a continual comment on
the worthlessness of the human race; and the few exceptions we find
have the greater right to be valued in proportion as they are rare. I
know few men estimable, fewer amiable; and when I meet with one of the
last description, it is not in my power to withhold my affection.
* * * * *
As to myself, I shall sit down in New-York when it opens; and this
period, we are told, approaches. No man looks forward to a peace with
more pleasure than I do; though no man would sacrifice less to it than
myself, if I were not convinced the people sigh for peace.
I have been studying the law for some months, and have lately been
licensed as an attorney. I wish to prepare myself by October for
examination as a counsellor; but some public avocation may possibly
prevent me.
I had almost forgotten to tell you, that I have been pretty unanimously
elected, by the Legislature of this State, a member of Congress, to
begin to serve in November. I do not hope to reform the State, although
I shall endeavor to do all the good I
* * * * *
God bless you,
A. Hamilton.
To Colonel Meade.