Alexander Hamilton letter to Elizabeth Schuyler, 10 July 1781

[Hamilton, who had proceeded to Albany, after his return from Newport, anxious to take part in the interesting operations which were about to occur, finding his application for a command unattended to, determined to bring the question to a definitive issue. The following extract from a letter written to Mrs. Hamilton, gives the course of this affair, ]

Camp, near Dobbs' Ferry, July 10th, 1781.

The day before yesterday I arrived here, but for want of an opportunity could not write any sooner ; indeed, I know of none now. Finding, when I came here, that nothing was said on the subject of a command, I wrote the General a letter, and enclosed him my commission. This morning Tilghman came to me in his name, pressed me to retain my commission, with an assurance that he would endeavour, by all means, to give me a command, nearly such as I could have desired in the present circumstances of the army. Though I know you would be happy to hear I had rejected this proposal, it is a pleasure my reputation would not permit me to afford you. I consented to retain my commission, and accept the command. I quarter, at present, by a very polite and warm invitation, with General Lincoln, and experience from the officers of both armies every mark of esteem."