To Alexander Hamilton from James Watson, 27 May 1796
From James Watson1
New York, May 27, 1796. “Wishing to have the Benefit of your much esteemed Council as a Lawyer in important Cases, if unfortunately I should hereafter be involved in any, I have inclosed you my Note for one Thousand Dollars, payable in five years, with Interest at 5 ⅌ Cent ⅌ annum, which I beg you to accept.…”2
LS, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress.
1. Watson, a native of Woodbury, Connecticut, had acted as agent and subcontractor for the firm of John Carter (John B. Church) and Jeremiah Wadsworth during the American Revolution. In 1786 he moved to New York City, where he practiced law, engaged in business, and served as director of the Bank of the United States and of the Society for Establishing Useful Manufactures. In 1791, 1794, and 1795 he represented New York City in the state Assembly.
2. H endorsed this letter: “Returned as being more than is proper. A H.”