New-York, Jan. 29, 1789.
My Dear Sir:
I thank you for your two letters of the 4th and 7th instant, which
arrived here during my absence at Albany, from which place I have but
recently returned. I believe you may be perfectly tranquil on the
subject of Mr. Adams’s election. It seems to be certain that all the
Middle States will vote for him to Delaware inclusively, and probably
Maryland. In the South, there are no candidates thought of but Rutledge
and Clinton. The latter will have the votes of Virginia, and it is
_possible_ some in South Carolina. Maryland will certainly not vote for
Clinton, and New-York, from our Legislature having by their contentions
let slip the day, will not vote at all. For the last circumstance, I
am not sorry, as the most we could hope would be to balance accounts
and do no harm. The Anti-federalists incline to an appointment
notwithstanding, but I discourage it with the Federalists. Under these
circumstances, I see not how any person can come near Mr. Adams; that
is, taking it for granted that he will unite the votes in New Hampshire
and Massachusetts. I expect that the Federal votes in Virginia, if any,
will be in favor of Adams.
You will probably have heard that our Legislature has passed a bill
for electing Representatives. The houses continue to disagree about
Senators, and I fear a compromise will be impracticable. I do not,
however, entirely lose hope. In this situation, you will perceive
that we have much to apprehend respecting the seat of Government.
The Pennsylvanians are endeavoring to bring their forces early in
the field. I hope our friends in the North will not be behindhand.
On many accounts, indeed, it appears to be important that there be
an appearance of zeal and punctuality in coming forward to set the
Government in motion.
I shall learn with infinite pleasure that you are a Representative. As
to me, this will not be the case--I believe, from my own disinclination
to the thing. We shall, however, I flatter myself, have a couple of
Federalists.
I remain your affectionate and obedient,
A. Hamilton.