Boston, Oct. 22, 1784.
My Dear Hamilton:
Every step I move, there comes upon me a happy necessity to change my
plans. The reception I met with in Boston no words can describe; at
least it is impossible to express what I have felt. Gratitude as well
as propriety conspired with all other inducements to keep me here some
time longer. Rhode Island and New Hampshire I must visit, and intend
embarking by the first or second day of next month for Virginia, in
the Nymph frigate, which has been sent on my account. In less than
four weeks’ time from this day, I hope to be with Congress; and when
my business there is concluded, will come to New-York, where I hope we
will spend some days together. My stay in your city has been too short,
far inadequate to the feelings of my gratitude, and to the marks of
goodness bestowed upon me; but this time I will be some days longer
with my New-York friends.
Upon reflecting on my situation, my circumstances, my love for America,
and yet the motives that might render it improper for her to employ me
in a public capacity, I have confined myself to a plan which, at the
same time that it gratifies my attachment and serves the United States,
cannot have any shadow of inconvenience. After having told me they
know my zeal, I wish Congress to add, they want me to continue those
friendly, and, I might say, patriotic exertions; that in consequence
of it, their ministers at home, and their ministers abroad, will have
a standing order to look to me as one whose information and exertions
will ever be employed to the service of the United States; and when
they think it is wanted, to communicate with me upon the affairs of
America; that Congress will, whenever I think it proper, be glad of my
correspondence.
Upon that general scale, every minister may conceal from me what he
pleases, may write to me only when he pleases; and should he ever think
my assistance is wanting, he has a title to ask, I have one to give
it; and my connection with America is for ever kept, without giving
jealousy, upon such a footing as will remain at the disposition of each
public servant of Congress.
It seems to me, my dear friend, this idea already met with your
approbation. In case it does, do promote it with your delegates and
others. If it does not, write it to me by the bearer whom I send by
land to apologize to the General for my delays.
Our friend Knox has been most affectionate and kind to me.
Yours for ever,
La Fayette.
P.S. I have written to Wadsworth, and spoken to Bostonians respecting
the Baron’s affairs. I will do the same in Virginia, Maryland, and
elsewhere.
To Alexander Hamilton, Esq.