To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 18 November 1793
From Alexander Hamilton
Treasury Deparmt Novemr 18. 1793
The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully submits to the consideration of the President of the United States, a communication from the Commissioner of the revenue of the 6th instant, transmitting two proposals respecting the masons work for repairing the Tybee Lighthouse in Georgia.1
From the measures, which have been taken, it appears improbable that better terms are obtainable, and from such means, as are possessed, of judging, there is no reason to conclude that they are not reasonable. Under these circumstances, and considering the distance, it is submitted, as the opinion of the Secy, expedient to close with the proposal of John Armour.2
A. Hamilton.
LB, DLC:GW.
1. In a letter of 31 Aug. to Savannah collector John Habersham, John Armour offered to “do the Brick-layers work to Tybee Light House” for $250, adding, “that is to say, I will do every thing in fitting the Iron work that ought to be expected from a Brick layer” (DNA: RG 26, Lighthouse Deeds and Contracts, 1790–1812). The other enclosures have not been identified.
2. Bartholomew Dandridge, Jr., replied to Hamilton in a letter of 26 Nov., returning the enclosures and informing him “that the President thinks it proper that the proposal of John Armour for doing the masons work . . . should be accepted” (DLC:GW). According to the letter-book copy of Armour’s proposal, GW’s signature of approval was dated 23 November.