Alexander Hamilton

2 pages (8 3/4 x 7 3/8 in.; 222 x 185 mm) on a bifolium, [Morristown, New Jersey], 14 April 1780; Hamilton’s signature neatly clipped away costing 4 words, silked. Tipped to a larger sheet. 

The Papers of Alexander Hamilton, ed. Syrett, 2:309–310

2 pages (8 3/4 x 7 3/8 in.; 222 x 185 mm) on a bifolium, [Morristown, New Jersey] 14 April 1780; Hamilton's signature neatly clipped away costing 4 words, silked. Tipped to a larger sheet.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The earliest confirmation of Hamilton’s engagement to Elizabeth Schuyler and the only known letter from Hamilton to his mother-in-law. This letter demonstrates that no more than three months after their first acquaintance, Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth Schuyler had reached an understanding that they were to be wed—and that they had received the consent of her parents. While Hamilton undoubtedly spoke with Philip Schuyler in person, he here sends his warm acknowledgment to Elizabeth’s mother.

“The inclosed letter came to hand two days ago, and I take the earliest opportunity of forwarding it. I cannot forbear indulging my feelings, by entreating you to accept the assurances [of my] gratitude for your kind [complia]nce with my wishes to be [united] to your amiable daughter. I leave it to my conduct rather than expressions to testify the sincerity of my affection for her, the respect I have for her parents, the desire I shall always feel to justify their confidence and merit their friendship. May I hope Madam, you will not consider it as mere profession, when I add, that though I have not the happiness of a personal acquaintence with you, I am no stranger to the qualities which distinguish your character and these make the relation in which I shall stand to you, not one of the least pleasing circumstances of my union with your daughter. My heart anticipates the sentiments of that relation and wishes to give you proofs of the respectful and affectionate attachment, with which I have the honor to be"