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Subject Area: Political Theory
Topic: The American Revolution and Constitution

ALEXANDER HAMILTON TO JAY. - John Jay, The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, vol. 4 (1794-1826) [1893]

Edition used:

The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, ed. Henry P. Johnston, A.M. (New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1890-93). Vol. 4 (1794-1826).

Part of: The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, 4 vols.

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ALEXANDER HAMILTON TO JAY.

New York, February 12, 1799.

Dear Sir:

The survey of this port to the Narrows inclusively has been executed and the expense defrayed out of the funds of the Corporation. But it is interesting to the question of the defence of our port to have a survey of the bay below the Narrows to Sandy Hook. There are sand banks critically situated which merit consideration as proper sites for fortification. Such a survey was made under the direction of the British commanders and a Mr. Hill possesses a draft of that part of the bay. He will not take less for it than 800 dollars; am told the survey of the upper part cost 600 dollars. In proportion, that of the part below will be moderate at 800. I enquired of General Clarkson as to the provision of funds for this object. He answered that he had no more than 500 dollars at command. If you agree in opinion with me that it will be well to obtain the draft in question for the price demanded, you will be so obliging as to give orders for the payment.

With great respect and esteem, dear Sir,
Your obedient

A. Hamilton.