November 23, 1785.
Dear Sir:
Major Fairly is just setting out on a visit to you, I believe on some
business relating to the Cincinnati. The society of this State met some
short time since, and took into consideration the proposed alterations
in the original frame of the Institution: some were strenuous for
adhering to the old Constitution, a few for adopting the new, and many
for a middle line. This disagreement of opinion, and the consideration
that the different State societies pursuing different courses--some
adopting the alterations entire; others rejecting them in the same way;
others adopting in part and rejecting in part--might beget confusion
and defeat good purposes, induced a proposal, which was unanimously
agreed to, that a committee should be appointed to prepare and lay
before the society, a circular letter, expressive of the sense of
the society on the different alterations proposed, and recommending
the giving powers to a general meeting of the Cincinnati, to make
such alterations as might be thought advisable, to obviate objections
and promote the interests of the society. I believe there will be no
difficulty in agreeing to change the present mode of continuing the
society; but it appears to be the wish of our members, that some other
mode may be defined and substituted, and that it might not be left to
the uncertainty of legislative provision. We object, too, to putting
the funds under legislative direction. Indeed, it appears to us, the
Legislatures will not, at present, be inclined to give us any sanction.
I am of the committee: and I cannot but flatter myself, that when the
object is better digested, and more fully explained, it will meet your
approbation.
The poor _Baron_ is still soliciting Congress, and has every prospect
of indigence before him. He has his imprudences; but, upon the whole,
he has rendered valuable services; and his merits and the reputation of
the country, alike, demand that he should not be left to suffer want.
If there could be any mode by which your influence could be employed in
his favor, by writing to your friends in Congress, or otherwise, the
Baron and his friends would be under great obligations to you.
I have the honor to be,
With sincere esteem,
Your ob’t and humble serv’t,
Alex. Hamilton.
To His Excellency General Washington.