Poughkeepsie, December 29, 1782.
Dear Sir:
Before I was honored by your letter of the eighteenth instant, I had
received a line from Colonel Floyd on the same subject. As my answer to
his is forwarded by the present conveyance, I beg leave to refer you
to it for information. I hope it may prove satisfactory; and I flatter
myself no further disappointment can take place. Should I, however,
be mistaken, you have only to advise me of it, and I will immediately
forward the cash.
Phelps, who was delayed on the road by the late heavy fall of snow,
waited on me a few days since, and delivered me your official
dispatches of the ninth instant. Considering the disposition heretofore
discovered by Congress, on the subject of our controversy with the
grants, their resolutions which you inclosed me, though short of what
we are justly entitled to, exceed my expectations; and I am not without
hope, if properly improved, may be the mean of leading to a just and
favorable issue. The idea of many of the military being interested
in the independency of Vermont, in consequence of their having taken
grants of lands under them, I believe is without foundation. There
was a period when the disposition of Congress, founded on political
expedience, appeared so favorable to the independence of that district,
as to have induced some gentlemen of the army to apply to the usurped
government for grants. But when it was discovered that they were
intriguing with the common enemy, the more respectable characters
withdrew their applications, and relinquished all kind of connection
with them; and even those who did not go so far, I imagine conceive
themselves perfectly secure under our late acts. If, however, this
should not be the case, any difficulty which may be apprehended from it
may be easily obviated; as I am persuaded the Legislature are disposed
to every liberal act that may consist with the honor of the State, and
tend to facilitate a settlement of the dispute. There was a time,
not long since, when Congress had only to have spoken decisively
on the subject, and they would have been obeyed: nor do I believe
the time is yet past, if they could be convinced that Congress were
in earnest. But if force is necessary to carry their decision into
execution, the longer it is delayed the more force it will require. The
misfortune is, though I believe there are but few States that favor
their independence, some members of those who do, take great pains to
encourage the revolters in their opposition, by secret assurances that
Congress will not direct any coercive measures against them: and I am
not without my fears that this conduct will, in some measure, defeat
the present resolutions.
I am, with great respect and esteem,
Dear Sir, your most obedient servant,
George Clinton.
To the Hon. Alexander Hamilton, Esq.