SCHUYLER TO HAMILTON.
Albany, September 16, 1781.
My Dear Sir:
The mail which was taken a few days ago at Hampton, has probably deprived me of the pleasure of a line from you.
We are advised, by a letter from Mr. Carter, that General Washington embarked with all except the rear division of the French, at the head of Elk on the 8th inst.; hence I hope you are now operating against Cornwallis. It is difficult to judge with precision of your prospects at this distance; but matters and appearances are so favorable, that they justify a hope that the operations will be crowned with ample success.
The Legislature of this State is to convene on the 1st of October, at Poughkeepsie: delegates are to be chosen: your friends will propose you. If you should be appointed, you will have time to consider, whether to accept or refuse will be most eligible. Should Cornwallis and his army fall into our hands, peace may, and probably will, be the consequence. If so, I should most earnestly wish you in Congress: and if not, I should still prefer it to your remaining in the army, for reasons that are obvious.
I am, dear Sir,
Affectionately and sincerely,
Your obedient servant,
Ph: Schuyler.
Colonel Hamilton.