7 June 1782
Hamilton, Alexander (1757-1804)
Autograph letter signed
Title: to Henry Knox
Written by Hamilton after he left the Army to Major General Knox. Letter details Hamilton's opinions against retaliation for the execution of American Captain Joshua Huddy at the hand of New York Loyalists (this is reference to the well-known Huddy-Asgill Affair). Hamilton says any retaliatory killing would be "derogatory to the national character." He claims there is no precedent for such a killing and that it would be "wanton and unnecessary." Says America's affairs "are now in a prosperous stream and so vigorous," that it would be foolish to tarnish the nation's reputation. Says that this…
GLC02437.01442