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MEMOIRS

AARON .BURR
•WITH
MISCELLANEOUS SELECTIONS
FROM
HIS CORRESPONDENCE,
BY MATTHEW L. DAVIS.
" I come to bury Csesar, not to praise him."
IN TWO VOLUMES.
VOL. I.

N E W-Y ORK:
PUBLISHED BY HARPER"& BROTHERS,
NO. 82 CLIFF-STREET.
1836.

7-'hy

[Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1836, by
Matthew L. Davis,
in the Clerk's Office of the Southern District of New-York.]

PREFACE.

During a period of forty years I was intimately ac
quainted -with Colonel Burr, and have reason to suppose
that I possessed his entire confidence. Some time after
his return from Europe in 1812, on different occasions, he
suggested casually a "wish that I "would make notes of his
political life. When the Memoirs and Correspondence
of Mr. JeJRrson -were published, he -was much excited at
the statements which were made in his Ana respecting the
presidential contest in Congress in 1801.
He procured and sent me a copy of the work, with a
request that I would peruse- the parts designated by him.
From this time forward he evinced an anxiety that I would
prepare his Memoirs, offering me the use of all his private
papers, and expressing a willingness to explain any doubt
ful points, and to dictate such parts of his early history as I
might require. These propositions led to frequent and full
conversations. I soon discovered that Colonel Burr was
far more tenacious of his military, than of his professional,
political, or moral character. His prejudices against Gen
eral Washington were immoveable. They were formed in
the summer of 1776, while he resided at headquarters ;
and they were confirmed unchangeably by the injustice
which he said he had experienced at the hands of the

IV PREFACE.
commander-in-chief immediatelji after the battle of Long
Island, and the retreat of the Aijierican army from the city
of New- York. These grievan^ies he wished to mingle
with his own history ; and he was particularly anxious to
examine the military movements of General Wa^M|Cton
on different occasions, but more especially at the u^m of
Monmouth, in which battle Colonel Burr conunanded a
brigade in Lord Stirling's division. I peremptorily refused
entering upon any such discussion; and, for some time,
all communication on the subject ceased.
Colonel Burr, however, renewed the conversation rela
tive to his Memoirs, and agreed that any thing which might
be written should be confined to himself. With this un
derstanding I frequently visited him, and made notes under
his dictation. I never asked him a question W any sub
ject, or in relation to any man or measure, that he did not
promptly and willingly answer. On his part there was no
desire of concealment; nor did he ever express to me a
wish to suppress an account of any act of his whole Ufe.
So far as I could judge, his only apprehensions were that
" kind friends," as he sometimes termed them, by attempts
at explanation, might unintentionally misrepresent acts which
they did not understand.
I devoted the summer of 1835 to an examination of his
letters and papers, of which there is an immense quantity.
The whole of them were placed in my hands, to be used
at my discretion. I was authorized to take from among
them whatever I supposed would aid me in preparing the
contemplated book.
I have undertaken the work, aware of the dehcacy and
responsibility of the task. But, if I know myself, it has

PREFACE. V
been performed with the most scrupulous regard to my
own reputation for correctness. I have aimed to state
facts, and the fair deductions from them, without the shght
est intermixture of personal feeling. I am very desirous
that a knowledge of Mr. Burr's character and conduct
shoula be derived from his miscellaneous correspondence,
and not from what his biographer might write, unsupported
by documentary testimony. With this view many of his
private letters are selected for publication.
I entertain a hope that I shall escape the charge of
egotism. I have endeavoured to avoid that ground of
offence, whatever may have been my literary sins in other
respects. It is proper for me, however, in this place, aud
for a single purpose, to depart from the course pursued in
the body of the work. It is a matter of perfect notoriety,
that among the papers left in my possession by the late
Colonel Burr, there was a mass of letters and copies of let
ters written or received by him, from time to time, during
a long life, indicatmg no very strict morahty in some of
his female correspondents. These letters contained matter
that would have wounded the feelings of families more ex
tensively than could be imagined. Their pubUcation would
have had a most injurious tendency, and created heartburn
ings that nothing but time could have ciured.
As soon as they came under my control I mentioned the
subject to Colonel Burr ; but he prohibited the destruction
of any part of them during his lifetime. I separated them,
however, from other letters in my possession, and placed
them in a situation that made their publication next to impos
sible, whatever might have been my own fate. As soon as
Colonel Burr's decease was known, wilh my own hands I

VI PREFACE.
committed to the fire all such correspondence, and not a
vestige of it now remains.
It is with unaffected reluctance that this statement of
facts is made ; and it never would have been made but for
circumstances which have transpired since the dec^e of
Colonel Burr. A mere allusion to these circumstances
will, it is trusted, furnish ample justification. No sooner
had the newspapers announced the fact that the Memoirs
of Colonel Burr were to be written by me, than I received
letters from various quarters of the country, inquiring into
the nature of the revelations that the book would make, and
deprecating the introduction of individual cases. These
letters came to hand both anonymously and under known
signatures, expressing intense solicitude for suppression.
Under such circumstances, am I not only warranted in
these remarks, but imperiously called upon to make them ?
What other mode remained to set the public mind at ease ?
I have now stated what must for ever hereafter preclude all
possibility for cavil on one part, or anxiety on the other. I
alone have possessed the private and important papers of
Colonel Burr ; and I pledge my honour that every one of
them, so far as I know and believe, that could have injured
the feelings of a female or those of her friends, is destroyed.
In order to leave no chance for distrust, I will add, that I
never took, or permitted to be taken, a single copy of any
of these letters ; and, of course, it is quite impossible that
any publication hereafter, if any should be made of such
papers or letters, can have even the pretence of authenticity.
The Author.
New-Yobk, Noveniber 15th, 1836.

CONTENTS

THE FIRST VOLUME.

CHAPTER I.
Ancestors of Burr ; his father's birth ; preparations for the min
istry ; the Rev. Aaron Burr visits Boston ; his account of the
celebrated preacher Whitefield; is married in 1752; Nassau
Hall built in Princeton in 1757 ; the Rev. Aaron Burr its
first president ; letter from a lady to Colonel Burr ; from his
mother to her father ; death of his parents ; sent to Philadel
phia, under the care of Dr. Shippen ; runs a-way "when only
four years of age --------- Page 17 — 25
CHAPTER n.
Burr is removed to Stockbridge, and placed under the care of
Timothy Edwards, his uncle and guardian ; Edwards removes
to Elizabethtown, New-Jersey ; Judge Tappan Reeve is
employed in the family as a private tutor to Burr ; runs away
to New- York at ten years of age ; enters Princeton College
in 1769, in the thirteenth year of his age ; his habits there ;
an awakening in college in 1771-72 ; his conversation with
Dr. Witherspoon on the subject ; selections from his compo
sitions while a student -£.¦- - - - - - - - 26 — 36
CHAPTER III.
Burr's college friends ; letters of William Paterson to Burr ; he
graduates in 1772, when sixteen years of age ; remains in col
lege to review his studies ; amusing anecdote relative to Pro
fessor S. S. Smith, in the Cliosophic Society, while Burr was
acting as president ; letter from Timothy Dwight ; from Sam
uel Spring ; correspondence with Matthias Ogden and others,
in cipher ; anecdote respecting visit to a billiard-table ; enters
the family of Joseph Bellamy, D. D. for the purpose of pursu
ing a course of reading on religious topics ; in 1774 deter
mines to study the law ; letter from Timothy Edwards 37 — 46

VUI CONTENTS.
CHAPTER IV.
Removes to the family of Judge Reeve ; amusing letter from
Matthias Ogden; to Ogden; from Jonathan Bellamy; from
Ogden; from Lyman Hall to the Rev. James CaldweU
Page 47 — 57
CHAPTER V.
BaUles of Lexington and Bunker's Hill ; Burr visits Elizabeth-
town, and, in company with his friend Ogden, joins the army
under Washington before Cambridge ; great disappointment
and mortification at witnessing the irregularities in the camp,
and the want of a police ; letter from Roger Sherman to Gen
eral David Wooster ; from James Duane to General Montgom
ery, announcing his appointment as a brigadier-general in the
continental army; General Montgomery's answer ; Burr sick
ens in camp ; hears of General Arnold's intended expedition
against Quebec ; volunteers as a private ; forms a mess, and
marches from Cambridge to Newburyport with knapsack and
musket ; letters from Dr. James Cogswell, Peter Colt, &c. to
dissuade him from proceeding with the expedition ; eflbrts of
his guardian to prevent him from marching ; sufferings on the
raarch through the wilderness ; escape from drowning in
passing the rapids ; on arriving at the Chaudiere, is despatched
by Arnold to Montgomery with information ; places himself
under the protection of a Catholic priest, who furnishes him
with a guide ; the guide becomes alarmed ; Burr is secreted
for some days in a convent ; arrives in safety at Montgomery's
headquarters ; is appointed one of his aid-de-camps ; the plan
of attack upon Quebec changed ; Judge Marshall's explana
tion of the reasons for the change ; Burr's opinion on the same
subject; the attack made on the night of the 31st of Decem
ber, 1775 ; General Montgomery, Captains McPherson and
Cheeseman, and all in front, ejwept Burr and a French guide,
killed ; Colonel Campbell ordeflj^a retreat - 57 — 72
CHAPTER VI.
Resolve of Congress to erect a monulient to the memory of
General Montgomery ; procured by, ^nd executed under the
superintendence of Dr. Franklin in Paris ; erected in front of
St. Paul's Church, in the city of New- York, in 1789 ; Arnold
takes command ; Burr acts as brigade major ; Arnold resolves
on demanding a surrender of Quebec, and that Burr shall be
the bearer of a sealed message ; refuses, without first reading
its contents ; after reading, considers it unbecoming an Amer
ican officer, and declines delivering it ; receives compliment
ary letters for hie intrepidity in the attack ; letter from Og-

CONTENTS. IX
den ; army moves to the mouth of the Sorel ; Burr determines
on leaving it, which Arnold foi^ds, b'lit^ie persists ; in Albany
is notified that General WasbSigton wishes him to come to
New-York ; reports himself to the commander-in-chief, who
invites him to join his family ; letter from Ogden informing
him that General Washington wishes him to take up his resi
dence at headquarters ; joins Washington's family, but soon
becomes discontented ; on the suggestion of Governor Han-r
cock, accepts the appointment of aid-de-camp to Major-gen-.
eral Putnam ; letter to Ogden ; reasons for quitting Washing
ton's family; letter from Paterson to Burr; to Paterson
Page 73—85
CHAPTER VII.
Some account of Mrs. Coghlan, daughter of Major Moncriefie
of the British army ; her residence in General Putnam's fam
ily ; her removal to the family of General Miffiin ; her allu
sions, in her memoirs, to a young American officer (Colonel
Burr) with, whom she had become enamoured ; letter of Gen
eral Putnam to Miss Moncrieffe ; Burr's character for intrigue ; -^
destruction of confidential papers, improper for public inspec
tion ; letter from Theodore Sedgwick to Burr ; from Ogden ;
to T. Edwards ; from Ogden ; General Putnam ordered to take
command on Long Island in the place of General Green ; Burr
reports to Putnam unfavourably of the state of the army, but
proposes to beat up the enemy's quarters ; is opposed to an
action, considering it likely to prove disastrous ; battle on the
27th of August,rt!'W6 ;^^ Burr presses upon Putnam and Miffiin
the necessity of ammmediate retreat ; council of war, and re
treat ordered ; General M'Dougall has charge of the embar-
cation of the troops from Brooklyn on the night of the 29th ;
Burr assists him ; his conduct tjiis.jaight inspires GeneraL-
M'Dougall with a confidence in him for vigilance andintre-
pidity which was never afterward diminished ; the retreat ef
fected in good order ; Burr is in favour of an immediate evac
uation of the city of New- York; on the 15th of September
the British land on Manhattan Island ; General Washingtoii
orders a retreat, which the enemy endeavour to intercept ;
in the confusion. General Silliman's brigade is left behind, and
General Knox conducts it to a small fort (Bunker's Hill) in the
suburbs of the city ; Burr discovers the perilous situation of
the brigade, and recommends Knox to retreat ; Knox refuses,
and denies the practicability ; Burr induces the officers and
men of the brigstde to place themselves under his command, _
and, after some skirmishes, hftjjonducts them wjthjriflingJo^ '
to the main army ; Samuel Rowlan3ToT!ra5imodore Morris on
this subject ; certificate of the Rev, Hezekiah Ripley, chaplairi
B

X CONTENTS.
of General Silliman's brigade, respecting their retreat under
the command of Colonel Burr; also of Isaac Jennings and
Andrew Wakeman, and a letter from Nathaniel Judson, in re
lation to the same affair  Fag® ^^ — ^^^
. CHAPTER VHI.
Letter from Colonel Burr to Mrs. Edwards ; the British army
move from Brunswick to Princeton ; General Washington
crosses the Delaware ; letter to Ogden ; Burr ordered by
General Washington, through Putnam, to proceed to Norwalk,
Fairfield, and other places on the Sound, to " settle a line of
intelligence," &c. ; on his return to camp, July 21st, 1777,
is appointed by Washington a lieutenant-colonel in Malcolm's
regiment ; Burr to AVashington ; joins his regiment in the
Clove, Orange county ; the British come out from New-
York, 2000 strong, on a marauding party ; Burr marches his
regiment thirty miles in the afternoon and evening to attack
them ; before morning captures their picket-guards by sur
prise ; the enemy retreat, leaving their plunder behind them ;
statement of this affair by Judge George Gardner and Lieu
tenant Hunter, with other details respecting Burr ; Putnam
orders him to join Parsons's brigade with his regiment, for the
purpose of re-enforcing Washington ; on the second day of his
march, is ordered by General Varnum to halt and defend the
bridge at Pompton against the British ; in November, is sta
tioned with his regiment, in advance of the main army, at
White Marsh, in Pennsylvania ; goes into winter quarters at
Valley Forge ; by the advice of General M'Dougall, he is
ordered by Washington to take command of a strong body of
militia, posted to defend the Gulf near Valley Forge, all his
senior officers having been withdrawn for the purpose of giv
ing him the command ; an intended mutiny suppressed by his
promptitude and intrepidity ; is of the Lee and Gates party,
opposed to Washington ; misunderstanding with Lord Stir
ling ; letter from Lord Stirling ; letter to him - 105 — 124
CHAPTER IX.
Letter from Malcolm to Burr ; battle of Monmouth, June 28th ;
arrest and trial of General Lee ; Burr dissatisfied with
Washington's orders to him during the action, in which he
commanded a brigade ; Lieutenant-colonel Dummer, under
his immediate command, killed ; Burr's horse shot under
him; his health greatly impaired, by fatigue and exposure
previous to and during the action ; ordered by Washington
the day after the battle, to proceed to Elizabethtown to watch
the movements of the enemy ; several notes of Lord Stir
ling to him on the subject ; joins his regiment ; ordered by

CONTENTS. XI
the Baron de Kalb to West Point ; the legislature of New-
York adopt rigid measures in regard to the tories ; Govemor
Clinton applies to the comraander-in-chief to appoint a confi
dential continental officer to take charge of them, &c. ; Gen
eral Washington designates Colonel Burr ; letter from Robert
Benson to Burr on the subject ; proceedings of the Board of
Commissioners for defeating Conspiracies, transmitted in
their letter to Burr; letter from Theodore Sedgwick; from
General Lee ; Burr to Washington, asking a furlough on ac
count of ill health, without pay ; from Washington, granting
the furlough, but ordering the pay ; Burr declines accepting it
on these conditions, and joins his regiment at West Point ;
letter from Mrs. Montgomery to Burr ; ordered by General
M'Dougall to take command of a brigade at Haverstraw, his
seniors having been withdrawn for the purpose ; ordered by
M'Dougall to take command of the lines in Westchester ; let
ter to M'Dougall, detailing the arrangement of his pickets, out
posts, &c. ; to M'Dougall ; from Major Platt ; from M'Dou
gall - - -  Page 125^-^147
CHAPTER X.
Letter from Burr to M'Dougall ; from PatersoH ; from Major
Platt ; to M'Dougall ; from M'Dougall ; from Platt ; from
M'DougaU ; from General Putnam ; from M'Dougall ; from
Samuel Young, Esq., of Westchester, to Commodore Morris,
detailing Burr's military career on the lines - - 148 — 166
CHAPTER XI.
Letter from Burr to General Washington resigning his coraraand ;
from Washington ; from Mrs. General Montgomery ; from
Paterson ; from M'Dougall ; at the request of General M'Dou
gall, Burr consents, at great hazard, to be the bearer of a
verbal confidential communication to General Washington ;
amusing incident at Townsend's iron-works, in Orange coun
ty, on this expedition ; in July, 1779, the British under Tryon
land at East Haven ; Burr, although confined to a sick-bed,
arises, sallies forth, takes coramand of the students in the col
lege green, and checks for a time the advance of the enemy ;
Colonel Piatt's account of Burr's military life -. 167 — 181
CHAPTER XII.
J)A.<8cription of_Buj-r's person a,i\d__ma;iriftr ; anecdote illustrative
of "Iiis^acriFcorrecting an ill-timed expression to a lady ; his
first acquaintance with Mrs. Prevost, subsequently his wife ;
letter from Mr. Monroe, late President of the United States,

Xli CONTENTS.
to Mrs. Prevost ; General Washington to Mrs. Prevost ; from
Paterson ; from Colonel Troup ; the same ; from Paterson ;
to Paterson; from Troup; from Major Alden ; from Paterson ;
from Troup ; to Troup ; from Troup ; the same ; the same ;
from Peter Colt ; the same ; from Troup ; the same
Page 181—211
CHAPTER XIII.
Letter from Paterson to Burr; the same; from Troup; Burr
commences the study of the law with Paterson, on the Rari-
ton ; removes to Haverstraw to study with Thomas Smith ;
capture of Andre ; Mrs. Arnold's confession to Mrs. Prevost
of her own guilt ; scene with Mrs. Arnold at the house of Co
lonel Morris in 1779-80 ; Burr leaves Haverstraw, and goes
to Albany to prepare for admission to the bar ; letter to Major
Alden ; from Thomas Smith ; from Mrs. Prevost ; the same ;
the same ; from Major Alden ; to Mrs. Prevost ; to Chief Jus
tice Morris ; to Mrs. Prevost ; Character of Philip Van Rens-
selear  212 — 238
CHAPTER XIV.
Burr applies to the Supreme Court for admission ; the bar ob
jects to his examination ; objections overruled ; admitted as
an attorney on the 19th January, 1782, and as counsellor on
the 17th of April, 1782 ; commences the practice of law in
Albany ; letter from Major Popham ; to Mrs. Prevost ; Burr
married to Mrs. Prevost, July, 1782; letter from Mrs. Burr;
from Judge Hobart ; from Mrs. Burr ; the same ; Burr re-
moves JD... H^-ifeXfrk ; elected a member of the legislature ;
his opposition in that body .to what'waFtermed the Mechanics'
Bill, produces great excitement ; threatened riot on the sub
ject, page 238 — 252 — Series of letters between Mr. and Mrs.
Burr  253 — 274
CHAPTER XV.
Series of letters between Mr. and Mrs. Burr continued from
pages 275 — 285 — Federal Constitution adopted ; Burr nom-
, inated and defeated on the Assembly ticket of " the Sons of
Liberty," in opposition to the Federal ticket ; he supports
Judge Yates in opposition to George Clinton for the office of
governor ; Clinton elected ; Soon after tenders BaiXjiie office
jiLatt2IUgi-gSagEjlj_he takes time to deliberate ; his lettM"to
Governor "Clinton, agreeing to serve ; is appointed attorney-
general, Septeraber, 1789 ; commissioners appomted by the
legislature to report on revolutionary claims against the state ;
Burr one of them ; letters to and from Mrs. Burr ; letter to his

CONTENTS.

Xlll

daughter Theodosia; from Dr. Benjamin Rush; to Theo-
dosia  Page 286 — 318
CHAPTER XVI.
Report of the r.nmmisHJnnfirs^.in^ piirsnance nf tbf} act entitled-
An act to receiye..and state accounts against the state, drawn
by liurr.; appointed senator of the United States. 1791; cau
tion in correspondence ; sales of the public lands by " the
commissioners of the land office," of which board Burr was a
member ; great dissatisfaction as to those sales ; subject
brought before the Assembly with a view to the impeachment
of the board ; Burr exonerated from censure ; assembly ap
prove the conduct of the commissioners ; anecdote of Melanc-
ton Smith and General Hamilton ; Burr, during his first session
in the United States Senate, -ffiitbJhp. sangtioajif thp. serretary
f?f ij^ilitfi (M'' -TpffpTann), jg employed in examjaipg-the. records
of the department ; is prevented from proceeding, by order of
President Washington; Mr. Jefferson to Buri- on the subject;
contested election between Clinton and Jay for governor ; can
vassers differ as to the legality of certain votes ; apply to Rufus
King and Burr for advice ; King and Burr differ in opinion ;
Burr proposes to decline giving advice ; Mr. King objects ; in
consequence, they give separate and conflicting opinions ; Burr
becoraes zealous in support of that which he has given ; seven
of the canvassers decide on destroying the votes of Otsego,
Clinton, and Tioga counties ; four object ; statement of the
case ; opinion of Mr. King ; opinion of Mr. Burr ; letter from
Jonathan D. Sargeant ; subject of the canvassers taken up by
the legislature ; protest of the minority ; reasons assigned to
the legislature by the majority in vindication of their conduct,
drawn by Burr ; Assembly approve the conduct of the major
ity ; letter from Burr to Jacob De Lamater, explaining his
own course in the contested election between Clinton and
Jay  318—359

CHAPTER XVII.
_ ]jointed_3_judge_ofJhe_S^reilie_Court; Jeclines,Jjut
^321P'""ri'' Clin*"" 'Jpo^nnt report <he. (n':* l'"^'^ called-upflii
a resolution of the legislature ; .ch^rmajaZoTlEelSeaatg
Conunitteg-tn-gnSw^r the president's "speech, the first sessigji
of his niemSership"; jepQ5i3^ answer nexFd^, which is
adopted wTEliour"opposition ; Heff.at,g a hU] \q inprease the
standing army by his sipgle objection ; letters to Mrs. Burr ;
series of letters to his daughter Theodosia ; teaches his
slaves to read and write ; letters from one of them 369 — 405

xiv CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XVIII.
Burr's manner of speaking; Albert Gallatin appointed a sen
ator of the United States ; objections to the legality of his
appointment ; Burr ardent in support of Gallatin ; note of
John Taylor, of Virginia, to Burr, on the subject of replying to
Rufus King ; Senate decide against Gallatin ; 5mxjj2ei:s,res-

olutions against sending an envoy extraordinary to Engla^
irt-rtTTU, arid~'a^mTTgr!mtm^Ttjg a ^Mt^ffe forjha_£tat,'nn7vntPS
against John Jay ; discontents oi the Democratic party with
General Washington for continuing Gouverneur Morris in
France ; certain members of Congress recommend Colonel
Burr to fill the station ; appoint Mr. Madison and Mr. Monroe
to notify the president of their wishes ; General Washington
refuses to make the appointment, but agrees to nominate Mr.
Monroe ; Burr's opposition to Jayis-teeefrrt-proposos-atftend^
raents, which'are reiected ;_letter to Thomas Morris ; detail
of legislative proceeHuigs in procuring the charter of the
Manhattan Company ; Burr's conduct on the occasion ; his
duel with John B. Church, Esq. ; letter of Burr to  , giv
ing a history of his transactions with the HoUand Land Com
pany ; his daughter married ; Miss Burr to Joseph Alston ;
letter from Alston to Miss Burr on early marriages ; con
tested election in New- York in 1800; Burr a candidale-fer
the nfBi^p, of Vice Preaident; a tie v^^ltb " "MrTjftfrer-
Bon  -  Page 405—436

MEMOIRS

AARON BURR

MEMOIRS

OF

AARON BURR.

CHAPTER I.
The grandfather of Colonel Aaron Burr, the subject of
these memoirs, was a German by birth, and of noble par
entage. Shortly after his arrival in North America, he set
tled in Fairfield, Connecticut, where he purchased a large
tract of land, and reared a numerous family. A part of this
landed estate remained in the possession of his lineal de
scendants until long after the revolutionary war. During
Colonel Burr's travels in Germany, in the year 1809, va
rious communications were made to him, orally and in wri
ting, by different branches of the Burr family, some of whom
were then filling high and distinguished scientific and lite
rary stations.
His father, the Rev. Aaron Burr, was born in Fairfield,
on the 4th day of January, 1715, and was educated at Yale
College. In a manuscript journal which he kept, and which
has been preserved, he says, "In September, 1736, with
many fears and doubts about my qualifications (being under
clouds with respect to my spiritual state), I offered myself
to trials, and was approved as a candidate for the min
istry. My first sermon was preached at Greenfield, and
immediately after I came into the Jerseys. I can hardly
give any account why I came here. After I had preached
for some time at Hanover, I had a call by the people of New
Vol, I — C

18 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [1740.
ark ; but thfire was scarce any probability that I should suit
their circumstances, being young in standing and trials. 1
accepted of their invitation, with a reserve, that I did not
come with any views of settling. My labours were univer
sally acceptable among them, and they mamfested such great
regard and love for me, that I consented to accept of the
charge of their souls.
" A. D. 1738-39, January the 25th, I was .set apart to
the work of the ministry, by fasting, prayer, and imposition
of hands. God grant that I may ever keep fresh upon my
mind the solemn charge that was then given me ; and never
indulge trifling thoughts of what then appeared to me of
such awful importance. The ministers who joined in this
solemn transaction were Mr. Dickinson, who gave the charge,
and Mr. Pierson, who preached. Mr. Dickinson, who pre
sided at this work, has been of great service to me by his
advice and instruction, both before and since my ordination.
" In November, 1739, 1 made a visit to my friends in New-
England, and again in March, 1740. In the foUo-wing Au
gust I was in a declining state of health, and by the advice
of my physicians visited Rhode Island. From thence I
proceeded to Boston. On the 19th of September I heard
Mr. Whitefield preach in Dr. Colman's church. I am more
and more pleased with the man. On the 21st, heard him
preach in the Commons to about ten thousand people. On
Monday, visited him, and had some conversation to my great
satisfaction. On the 23d, went to hear him preach in Mr.
Webb's church, but the house was crowded before Mr. White-
field came. The people, especially the women, were put
into a fright, under a mistaken notion that the galleries were
faUing, which caused them to hurry out in such a violent man
ner, that many were seriously injured and five kiUed. The
same day, Mr. Whitefield preached at Mr. Gee's church. In
the evening he preached at Dr. SewaU's church. On Sat
urday I went to hear Rim in the Commons ; there were about
eight thousand hearers. He expounded the parable of tha

1752.] memoirs of aaron burr. 19
prodigal son. in a very moving manner. Many melted into
tears. On the 4th of October, being on my retum to New-
Jersey, I arrived at Fairfield, where I remained two days
with my friends."
In the year 1748, Governor Belcher, of New-Jersey, by
and with the approbation of his Majesty's Council, granted
a charter to the college of New-Jersey, subsequently known
as Nassau Hall. This college was opened in Newark, the
students living in private families. The Rev. Aaron Burr
was appointed the first president. In the year 1754 or 1755,
the trustees commenced erecting the college in Princeton ;
and in 1757 itwas so far completed that the students, about
seventy in number^ were removed to the building.
In June, 1752, President Burr, being then in his 38th
year, was married to Esther Edwards, the daughter of Jon
athan Edwards, a distinguished metaphysician and divine.
He was the second president of Princeton College, being
called to that station on the decease of his son-in-law, Pres
ident Burr. Thus, the father of Colonel Aaron Burr, and
the grandfather on his mother's side, were, in succession, at
the head of that seminary of learning.
President Burr was alike celebrated for his eloquence and
piety ; but, withal, he possessed no inconsiderable degree of
eccentricity. His courtship and marriage partook of it.
Miss Edwards, after the preliminaries were arranged, was
brought to New-Jersey to be married. The occurrence
created much conversation, and gave rise to some newspa
per commentary. The following is extracted from the New-
York Gazette of the 20th of July, 1752.
" A letter to a gentleman from his friend, dated " July 7th, 1752.
" Sir,
" As you are a known and peculiar votary to the state of
celibacy, I judged it would do you no disservice to ac
quaint you of a late occurrence, which suificiently evi-

20 memoirs of AARON BURR. [1753.
dences, that after the most mature consideration, some of our
wisest and best men do prefer the endearment of the nup
tial bed.
" About eight days since, the Rev. Aaron Burr, president
of the College of New-Jersey, was married to a daughter of
the renowned Mr. Jonathan Edwards, late of Northampton.
She is a young lady of about twenty-one. Her person may
be called agreeable ; her natural genius seems to be spright
ly, and, no doubt, is greatly improved by a very virtuous edu
cation. In short, she appears to be one every way qualified
to make a man of sense and piety happy in the conjugal re
lation. As to the courtship or marriage, I shall not descend
to particulars ; but only observe, in general, that, for some
centuries, I suppose there has not been one more in the
patriarchal mode. '
" I hope, sir, that this instance, both as to matter and
form, wiU have its genuine influence upon you, and as weU
bear a part in convincing you that wedlock is incomparably
preferable to the roving uneasiness of the single state, as. to
direct you, when you are choosing your mate, that, instead
of acting the modern gallant, wisely to imitate this example,
and endeavour to restore courtship and marriage to their
original simplicity and design. "Philogamus." .

At different times Colonel Burr received friendly anony
mous and other communications, recommending to him the
practice of a religious life. It is a remarkable fact, that in
almost every such instance he is referred to the letters of
his mother. From a communication to him, written by a
lady, the foUowing is extracted. If it should raeet her eye,
as it probably wiU, it is hoped that she wiU pardon this free
dom. Her name is suppressed, and wiU not be known, tm-
less through her own instrumentality.

1752.] memoirs of aaron burr. 21
" My Dear Sir,
" I trust the purity of the motives by which I am actuated
will find an apology in your bosom for the liberty I assume
in addressing you on a subject which involves your eternal
interest. " Here, in the wilds of  , I have found an extract of a
letter, written by your inestimable mother nearly sixty years
ago, of which you are the principal subject ; and a transcript
of which I shaU enclose for your perusal. Perhaps you
wiU think me a weak, presumptuous being ; but permit me,
dear sir, to assure you, this does not proceed from a whim of
the moment. It is not a mere transient gust of enthusiasm.
The subject has long been heavy on my mind. I have
more than once resolved to converse with you freely ; to
tell you how my own feelings were affected relative to your
situation ; but my faltering tongue refused to obey the im
pulse of my soul, and I have withdrawn abruptly, to conceal
that which I had not confidence to communicate. But meet
ing (I believe providentiaUy) with this precious relic has
determined me. I wiU -write, and transmiit it to you. I am
too well convinced of the liberality of your sentiments ; but I
still believe you retain an inherent respect for the religion of
your forefathers.
" I have often reflected on your trials, and the fortitude
with which you have sustained them, with astonishment.
Yours has been no common lot. But you seem to have for
gotten the right use of adversity. AffUctions from Heaven
' are angels sent on embassies of love.' We must improve,
and not abuse them, to obtain the blessing. They are com
missioned to stem the tide of impetuous passion ; to check
inordinate ambition ; to show us the insignificance of earthly
greatness ; to wean our affections from transitory things, and
elevate them to those realities which are ever blooming at
the right hand of God. When affliction is thus sanctified,
* the heart at once it humbles and exalts.'

2S memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 1.
"Was it philosophy that supported you m your trials?
Tliere is an hour approaching when philosophy wiU fail, and
aU human science wiU desert you. What then wiU be yoiu:
substitute 1 TeU me. Colonel Burr, or rather answer it to
your own heart, when the pale messenger appears, how wiU
you meet him — ' undamped by doubts, undarkened by de
spair V
" The enclosed is calculated to excite mingled sensations
both of a melancholy and pleasing nature. The hand that
penned it is now among ' the just made perfect.' Your
mother had given you up by faith. Have you ever ratified
the vows she made in your behalf? When she bade you
a long farewell, she commended you to the protection of
Him who had promised to be a father to the fatherless.
" The great Augustine, in his early years, was an infidel
in his principles, and a libertine in his conduct, which his
pious mother deplored with bitter weeping. But she was
told by her friends that ' the child of so many prayers and
tears could not be lost;' and it was verified to her happy
experience, for he afterward became one of the grand
luminaries of the church of Christ. This remark has often
been applied to you; and I trust you will yet have the
happiness to find that ' the prayers of the righteous' have
' availed much.'
" One favour I would ask : when you have done with this,
destroy it, that it may never meet the eye of any third per
son. In the presence of that God, before whom the inmost
recesses of the heart are open, I have written. I con
sulted him, and him only, respecting the propriety of ad
dressing it to you ; and the answer he gave was, freedom
in writing, with a feeUng of the deepest interest impressed
upon my heart.
"Z. Y
"To Col. A. Burr."

Aged 2.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 23
EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM MRS. BURR TO HER FATHER,
PRESIDENT EDWARDS. "Princeton, Nov. 2, 1757.
" Honoured Sir,
" Your most affectionate, comforting letter, by my brother,
tvas exceedingly refreshing to me, although I was some
what damped that I should not see you until spring. But
it is my comfort in this disappointment, as well as under
all my affUctions, that God knows what is best for me and
for his own glory. Perhaps I depended too much on the
company and conversation of such a near, and dear, and
affectionate father and guide. I caimot doubt but all is for
the best, and I am satisfied that God should order the
affair of your removal as shall be for his glory, whatever
comes of me. Since I wrote my mother's letter, God has
carried me through new trials, and given me new supports.
My little son* has been sick with the slow fever ever since
my brother left us, and has been brought to the brink of the
grave. But I hope, in mercy, God is bringing him up
again. I was enabled to resign the child (after a severe
struggle with nature) with the greatest freedom. God
showed me that the child was not my own, but his, and that
he had a right to recall what he had lent whenever he
thought fit ; and I had no reason to complain, or say God
dealt hard with me. This silenced me. But how good is
God! He hath not only kept me from complaining, but
comforted me, by enabling me to offer up the child by
faith. I think, if ever I acted faith, I saw the fulness
there was in Christ for little infants, and his willingness to
accept of such as were offered to him. ' Suffer little chil
dren to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of such is
the kingdom of God,' were comforting words. God also
showed me, in such a lively manner, the fulness that was
in himself of all spiritual blessings, that I said. Although aU
? Col. Burr, at that time about twenty months old.

24 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 2.
streams were cut off, yet, so long as my God lives, I have
enough. He enabled me to say—' Although thou slay me,
yet wiU I trust in thee.' In this time of trial I was led to
enter mto a renewed and explicit covenant with God, in a
more solemn manner than ever before, and with the great
est freedom and delight. After much self-examination and
prayer, I did give up myself and children to God with my
whole heart. Never, untU now, had I a sense of the privi
lege we are aUowed in covenanting with God ! This act
of my soul left my mind in a quiet and steady trust m God.
A few days after this, one evening, in talking of the glori
ous state my dear departed must be in, my soul was CEur-
ried out in such longing desires after this glorious state,
that I was forced to retire from the family to conceal my
joy. When alone, I was so transported, and my soul car
ried out in such eager desires after perfection, and the
full enjoyment of God, and to serve him uninterruptedly,
that I think my nature would not have borne much more.
I think I had that night a foretaste of Heaven. This frame
continued, in some good degree, the whole night. I slept
but Uttle ; and when I did, my dreams were aU of heav
enly and divine things. Frequently since I have felt the
same in kind, though not in degree. Thus a kind and
gracious God has been with me in six troubles, and in
seven. But, oh ! sir, what cause of deep humiliation and
abasement of soul have I, on account of remaining corrup
tion which I see working, especially pride ! Oh, how
many shapes does pride cloak itself in ! Satan is also
busy shooting his darts ; but, blessed be God, those temp
tations of his that used to overthrow me, as yet, have not
touched me. Oh to be delivered from the power of Satan
as weU as sin ! I cannot help hoping the time is near.
God is certainly fitting me for himself; and when I think
it wiU be soon that I shall be called hence, the thought is
transporting. " Your dutiful and affectionate daughter,
"Esther Burr."

Aged 4.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 25
Such were the parents of Colonel Aaron Burr. Of the
natural guardianship and protection of both he was deprived
before he had reached the third year of his age. He was
bom on the 6th of February, 1756, in Newark, State of
New- Jersey. His father died in August, 1757, and his.
mother the year following, leaving two chUdren, Aaron,
and his sister Sarah. She subsequently became the wife
of Judge Tappan Reeve, of Connecticut. On the decease
of his father. Colonel Burr inherited a handsome estate.
In the year 1760 Aaron was sent to Philadelphia, under
the care of an aunt and Dr. Shippen. For the family of
the doctor he entertained a high degree of respect. He
frequently spoke of them in the kindest terms, and recur
red to this early period of his history with emotions of
gratitude for their care and protection.
Boswell, in his Life of Johnson, remarks that, " In foUow
ing so very eminent a man from his cradle to his grave,
every minute particular which can throw light on the prog
ress of his mind, is interesting." Johnson himself, in the
Life of Sydenham, says " There is no instance of any
man, whose history has been minutely related, that did not,
in every part of life, discover the same proportion of intel
lectual vigour."
These high authorities are now quoted in justification of
some of the details which wiU be given in the progress of
this work, and which, in themselves, may appear trifling aud
unimportant. When Aaron was about four years old, he'*"
had some misunderstanding with his preceptor, in conse
quence of which he ran away, aud was not found until the
third or fourth day after his departure from home ; thus
indicating, at a tender age, that fearlessness of mind, and
determination to rely upon himself, which were character
istics stamped upon every subsequent act of his Ufe. ^y'
Vol. I.— D 2

26 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 5

CHAPTER II.
In 1761 he was removed to Stockbridge, in Massachu
setts, and placed in the family of Timothy Edwards, his
mother's eldest brother. In 1762 his maternal uncle,
Timothy, removed to Elizabethtown, New-Jersey. Aaron
and his sister Sarah remained in the family until the for
mer entered college, and the latter became the wife of
Judge Reeve. A private tutor was employed for them in
the house of Mr. Edwards. For a considerable portion of
the time. Judge Reeve was engaged in that capacity.
When about ten years old, Aaron evinced a desire to
make a voyage to sea ; and, with this object in view, ran
away frora his uncle Edwards, and carae to the city of New-
York. He entered on board an outward-bound vessel as
cabin-boy. He was, however, pursued by his guardian,
and his place of retreat discovered. Young Burr, one day,
while busUy employed, perceived his uncle coming down
(the wharf, and immediately ran up the shrouds, and clam
bered to the topgallant-mast head. Here he remained, and
peremptorily refused to come down, or be taken down,
until all the preliminaries of a treaty of peace were agreed
upon. To the doctrine of unconditional submission he
never gave his assent.
In 1 769 Burr entered Princeton College ; where, owing
to his extrerae youth and smallness of stature, he was for
ced to commence with the sophomore, although, upon ex
amination, he was found quaUfied to enter the junior class.
This was a source of extreme mortification to him, and
especially as he had been prepared, and was every way
qualified, to enter the preceding year. From his infancy
Burr was of a slender frame, and appeared to be delicately

Aged 12.] MEMOIRS 01 aaron burr. 27
formed ; but exhibited great muscular strength, and was
able to endure excessive fatigue of body and raind.
Previous to entering college, young Burr had formed ex
traordinary notions of the acquirements of coUegiates ; and
felt great apprehension lest he should be found inferior to
his classmates. He was therefore, at first, indefatigable as
well as systeraatic in his studies. He soon discovered that
he could not pursue them after dinner with the same advan
tage that he could before. He suspected that this was
owing to his eating too abundantly. He made the experi
ment, and the result convinced him that his apprehensions
were well founded. He immediately adopted a system of
regimen, to which, in sorae degree, he adhered through
life. So abstemious was he during the greater part of the
first year after his entrance into college, that it operated
powerfuUy upon him, and he was supposed to be in bad
health. He was in the habit of studying sixteen or eighteen
hours of the twenty-four, until the period of examination
arrived, when he discovered that the progress he had made
was so much beyond his associates, that he formed an opin
ion as contemptuous as it had been exalted of his coUege
friends. The effect of this was ultimately very injurious
upon his habits.
During the last year that he remained in college, he passed \
a Ufe of idleness, negligence, and, in sorae measure, of dissi
pation. He applied himself but little to his studies, and
was in the constant pursuit of pleasure. He graduated,
however, when only sixteen years of age, with a reputation
for talents, and receiving the highest academic honours the
faculty could bestow;
In the year 1771-72, there was in the coUege what was
termed, in religious phraseology, " an awakening." A large
portion of the coUegians became converted. It was only a
short time before Burr graduated, and in the midst of his
hilarity and amusements. He was frequently appealed to
by his associates, and threatened with the most terrific con-

28 MEMOIRS OF AARON RURR. [Aged 15.
sequences if there was not an inward as weU as an outward
change. From his infancy Burr's education had been strictly
moral ; and strong impressions had been made upon his ramd
as to the existence of a Deity, and the accountabUity of raan.
Yet this awakening did not<yseem to him right in aU its parts.
He deterraiued, therefore, to have a free and full conversa
tion with Dr. Witherspoon, the then president of the coUege,
on the subject. The result of that conversation in some
measure tranquillized young Burr. The Rev. Dr. assured
him that it was not true and rational religion, but fanaticism,
that was operating upon his friends.
Among the papqfs preserved by Colonel Burr are the origi
nals of a number of essays or orations, -written and read by
him, in conformity with the regulations of the coUege, whUe
yet a student. They are without dates ; but, as he graduated
in 1772, they must have been composed when he was of an
age between thirteen and sixteen. A few of thera are here
inserted, as exhibiting his manner of -writing, and the matu
rity and tone of his mind. The opinions which he formed,
while yet in college, as to public speaking and the selection
of language, he appears never to have changed. The style
which he then recomraended seems ever after to have been
his model. Read in College, by Aaron Burr. — On Style.
'' I have often observed, that it is very coramon for those
who axe ambitious of excelUng in coraposition, to study
swelling words, pompous epithets, and laboured periods
This is often practised, especially by young writers. It is,
however, generally condemned as a fatdt, and sometimes
too by those who practise it themselves. An elegant sim
plicity of language is what every one should strive to obtain.
Besides the arguments which are usually offered on this
head, there is one very important one, which is commonly
not much attended to.
" It is the business of every writer to acquire command of

Aged 15.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 29
language, in order that he may be able to write with ease
and readiness, and, upon any occasion, to form extempore
. discourses. Unless he can do this, he will never shine as a
speaker, nor wiU he ever make a figure in private conversa
tion. But to do this, it is necessary to study simpUcity of
style. There never was a ready speaker, whose language
was not, generaUy, plain and simple ; for it is absolutely im
possible to carry the laboured ornaments of language, the
round period, or the studied epithet, into extempore dis
courses ; and, were it possible, it would be ridiculous. We
have leamed, indeed, partly from reading poetry, and partly
from reading vicious compositions, to endure, and too often
to admire, such stiff and laboured discourses in -writing ; but
if it were even possible for a man to speak in the same pom
pous diction in which Browne has -written his vulgar errors,
he would certainly be very disagreeable. This reason,
among others, may be assigned for it ; that however such
false ornaments may please for a time, yet, when a long and
steady attention is required, we are tired and disgusted with
every thing which increases our labour, and diverts the at
tention from the subject before us. A laboured style is a
labour even to the hearer. A simple style, like simple food,
preserves the appetite. But a profusion of ornament, like a
profusion of sweets, paUs the appetite and becoraes disgusting.
A man might as soon think of filling his storaach with sweet
meats, as going through a long debate filled with porapous
epithets and sounding language. If we have any doubt of
its being ridiculous, let us only suppose a raan arguing an
abstruse subject in metaphysics, in the blank verse of Mil
ton, or the exact rhymes of Pope. The absurdity is the
same, only different in degree. I would not be understood
to cut off an extempore speaker from sublime expressions ;
because I do not suppose these to be inconsistent with sim
pUcity of style. I really doubt if there be any such thing
as sublimity of style, strictly speaking. But, indeed, rather
believe that the sublime depends upon the thoughts, whicl^

30 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 15.
are the more sublime by being clearly and simply expressed.
This, however, is not material at present. It is certainly
impossible for a speaker to carry laboured periods mto his
extempore discourses : it is no less certain, that in geperal,
a simple style is to be preferred, and that he would be ridicu
lous and disagreeable if he could do it; and as extempore
speaking is a great object, which we ought to have in view
in the formation of our style, this may be used as one argu
ment why we should study a simple style."
The Passions.
" Amid the variety of literary pieces which have m aU
ages been ushered into the >vorld, few, if any, afford greater
satisfaction than those that treat of man. To persons of a
speculative nature and elegant taste, whose bosoms glow
with benevolence, such disquisitions are peculiarly delight
ful. The reason, indeed, is obvious ; for what more neces
sary to be learned and accurately understood ? what more
near and interesting ? and, therefore, what more proper to
engage the attention ? Well raay I say, with our ethic poet,
" ' The proper study of mankind ia man.'
" If we take a view of the body only, which may be caUed
the shell or external crust, we shall perceive it to be formed
with amazing nicety and art. How are we lost in wonder
when we behold all its component parts ; when we behold
them, although various and rainute, and blended together al
most beyond conception, discharging their peculiar functions
without the least confusion. All harraoniously conspiring
to one grand end.
" But when we take a survey of the more sublime parts
of the human frame ; when we behold man's internal make
and structure ; his mental faculties ; his social propensions,
and those active powers which set all in motion — the pas
sions, — what an illustrious display of consummate wisdom is
presented to our admiring view ! What brighter mark —
what stronger evidence need we of a God? The scanty

Aged 15.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 31
limits of a few minutes, to which I am confined, would not
permit me, were I equal to the task, to enter into a particu
Icir examination of all man's internal powers. I shall there
fore throw out a few thoughts on the passions only.
" Man's mental powers, being in their nature sluggish and
inactive,* cannot put themselves in motion. The grand de
sign then of the passions is, to rouse them to action. These
lively and vigorous principles make us eager in the pursuit
of those things that are approved by the judgment ; keep
the mind intent upon proper objects, and at once awake to
action all the powers of the soul. The passions give viva
city to all our operations, and render the enjoyments of life
pleasing and agreeable. Without them, the scenes of the
world would affect us no more than the shadowy pictures of
a morning dream.
" Who can view the works of nature, and the productions
of art, without the most sublime and rapturous emotions ?
Who can view the miseries of others, without being dis
solved into compassion ? Who can read human nature, as
represented in the histories of the world, without burning to
chastise the perpetrators of tyranny, or glowing to iraitate the
asserters of freedom ? But, were we of a sudden stripped
of our passions, we should survey the works of nature and
the productions of art with indifference and neglect. We
should be unaffected with the calaraities of others, deaf to
the calls of pity, and dead to aU the feelings of humanity.
Without generosity, benevolence, or charity, man would be a
grovelling, despicable creature. Without the passions, man
would hardly rank above the beasts.
" It is a trite truth, that the passions have too much influ
ence over our sentiments and opinions. It is the remark of
a late author, that the actions and sentiraents of raen do as
UcrturaUy follow the lead of the passions, as the effect does
the cause. Hence they are, by some, aptly enough, termed
the principles of action. Vicious desires wiU produce vicious
practices ; and men, by permitting themselves to think of

32 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURK. [Aged 15.
indulging irregular passions, corrapt the understanding, which
is the source of all virtue and raorality. The passions, then,
if properly regulated, are the gentle gales which keep Ufe
from stagnating ; but, if let loose, the tempests which tear
every thing before them. Too fatal observation wiU evince
the truth of this.
" Do we not frequently behold men of the most sprightly
genius, by giving the reins to their passions, lost to society,
and reduced to the lowest ebb of misery and despair 1 Do
we not frequently behold persons of the most penetrating dis
cernment and happy turn for polite Uterature, by mingling
with the sons of sensuality and riot, blasted in the bloom of
life ? Such was the fate of the late celebrated Duke of
Wharton, Wilmot, earl of Rochester, and Villers, duke of
Buckingham, three noblemen, as erainently distinguished by
their wit, taste, and knowledge, as for their extravagance,
revelry, and lawless passions. In such cases, the most
charming elocution, the finest fancy, the brightest blaze of
genius, and the noblest burst of thoughts, caU for louder ven
geance, and damn them to lasting infamy and shame.
" A greater curse cannot, indeed, befall community, than for
princes and men in eminent departments to be under the in
fluence of iU-directed passions. Lo Alexander and Cesar,
the fabled heroes of antiquity, to what lengths did passion
hurry them ? Ambition, with look sublime, bade them on,
bade them grasp at universal dorainion, and wade to erapire
through seas of blood ! But why need I confine myself to
these ? Do not provinces, plundered and laid waste with fire
and sword ; do not nations, raassacred and slaughtered by
the bloody hand of war ; do not all these dreadfiil and as
tonishing revolutions, recorded in the pages of history, show
the fatal effects of lawless passions ?
" If the happiness of others could not, yet surely our own
happiness should induce us to keep our passions within the
bounds of reason ; for the passions, when unduly elevated,
destroy the health, impair the mental faculties, somr the dis-

Aged 15.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 33
position, imbitter life, and make us equaUy disagreeable to
others and uneasy to ourselves. Is it not, then, of moment,
that our passions be duly balanced, their sallies confined
within proper limits, and in no case suffered to trans
gress the bounds of reason ? Will any one deny the im
portance of regulating the passions, when he considers how
powerful they are, and that his own happiness, and perhaps
the happiness of thousands, depends upon it ? The regula
tion of the passions is a matter of moment, and therefore we
should be careful to fix them upon right objects, to confine
them within proper bounds, and never permit them to exceed
the limits assigned by nature. It is the part of reason to
sooth the passions, and to keep the soul in a pleasing se
renity and calm : if reason rules, aU is quiet, coraposed, and
benign : if reason rules, all the passions, like a musical con
cert, are in unison. In short, our passions, when moderate,
are accompanied with a sense of fitness and rectitude ; but,
when excessive, inflame the mmd, and hurry us on to action
without due distinction of objects.
" Among imciviUzed nations, the passions do, in general,
exceed aU rational bomids. Need we a proof of this ? Let us
cast our eyes on the different savage tribes in the world, and
we shall be immediately convinced that the passions rale
without control. Happy it is, that in polished society, the
passions, by early discipline, are so moderated as to be
made subservient to the most important services. In this
respect, seminaries of learning are of the utmost advantage,
and attended with the most happy effects. Moreover, the
passions are attended with correspondent commotions in ani
mal nature, and, therefore, the real temper will, of course, be
discovered by the countenance, the gesture, and the voice.
Here I might run into a pleasing enumeration of many in
stances of this ; but, fearing that I have already trespassed
upon your patience, shall desist. Permit me, however un»,
usual, to close with a wish. May none of those unruly
passions ever captivate any of my audience."
Vol, I,— E S*

34 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 15.
An Attempt to search the Origin of Idolatry.
" It is altogether impossible to fix exactly the period when
idolatry took its rise. Adam, coming immediately from the
hands of God, had experienced too many manifestations of
his power and goodness to be unacquainted with him, and
must have preserved the purest idea of him in his own fam
ily, which, most probably, continued in the branch of Seth
tiU the deluge. The posterity of Cain, on the contrary (the
pure idea of God gradually wearing away, and by loose
men being coimected with sense), fell into idolatry, and
every other crime, which brought on the deluge ; a period
about which Moses has said but little, and from what he has
said we can draw no just conclusion with respect to the
idolatry of those tiraes.
" A certain author, being persuaded that idolatry did not
take its rise till after the deluge, gives a very singular ac
count of its origin. According to hira, atheism had spread
itself over the world. This disposition of mind, says he,
is the capital crime. Atheists are much more odious to
the Divinity than idolaters. Besides, this principle is much
more capable of leading men into that excessive corruption
the world fell into before the deluge. The knowledge of a
God, of whatever nature he is conceived, and the worship of
a Deity, are apt, of themselves, to be a restraint upon raen.
So that idolatry was of sorae use to bear down the corruption
of the world. It is therefore probable, that the horrid vices
men were fallen into before the deluge, proceeded only from
their not knowing nor serving a God. I am even of opin
ion (continues he) that the idolatry and polytheism after the
deluge derived their origin from the atheism and impiety
that reigned before it. Such is the temper of men, when
they have been severely punished for any crime, they run
into the opposite extreme. I conjecture (concludes the same
author) this was the case with raen after the deluge. As
they reckoned that this terrible judgraent, which carried
such indications of Divine wrath, was sent for the punish-

Aged 15.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 35
ment of atheism, they ran into the opposite extreme. They
adored whatever seemed to deserve their worship.
" It is true, indeed, that idolatry is capable of furnishing a
curb against irregularity of manners; but this author has
conjectured, without foundation, that atheism reigned uni
versally before the deluge. He ought, at least, to have ex
cepted the posterity of Seth.
" However idolatry might have reigned before the deluge,
it is certain that the knowledge and worship of the true God
were again united in the family of Noah ; and as long as the
children and grandchildren of that patriarch made but one
family, in all probability, the worship of the true God was
little altered in its purity. Noah being at the head of the
people, and Shem, Hara, and Japheth witnesses of God's ven
geance on their contemporaries, is it probable that they, liv
ing in the midst of their farailies, would suffer them to depart
from the truth ? We read of nothing that can incline us to
this belief. Various have been the conjectures concerning
the authors of idolatry. Some believe it was Serag, the
grandfather of Terah, who first introduced idolatry after the
deluge. Others maintain it was Nimrod, and that he in
stituted the worship of fire araong his subjects, which con
tinues even to this day in sorae places in Persia. Others
assert that Hara was the author of it, and then his son Ca
naan ; and it is most probable that the unfortunate sons of
an atcursed father were the ifirst who, following the propen
sity of their own heart, sought out sensible objects to which
they might offer a superstitious worship. As the two sons
of Ham, Canaan and Mizraim, settled, the one in Phoenicia,
and the other in Egypt, it is probable that these were the
first nurseries of idolatry ; and the sun, being looked upon as
the purest image of the Creator, was the first object of it,
It is not probable that men would choose beings like them
selves for the first objects of their adoration, Nothing could
be more capable of seducing than the beauty and usefulness
of the Sim, dispensing light and fertility all around. But, to

36 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. Aged 16.
conclude, we must not imagine that aU idolatry sprang from
the same country. It came by slow degrees, and those who
made the first advances towards this impiety, did by no
means carry it to that extravagant height to which it after
wards arrived."

CHAPTER III.
In coUege, young Burr formed intimacies which ripened
into lasting friendship. The attachment between him and
Colonel Matthias Ogden, of New-Jersey, was both ardent
and mutual ; and, it is beUeved, continued during the Ufe of
the latter. Colonel Knapp says, " Samuel Spring, D. D.,
late of Newburyport, was in coUege with Colonel Burr, and
part of their coUege life was his chum. The doctor was a
student of mature age, and had a provisitorial power over Burr
in his dady duties. He has often spoken of his young friend
with raore than ordinary feeUng. He, in fact, prophesied
his future genius, from the early proofs he gave of intellect
ual power in the course of his college life."
At Princeton, Burr enjoyed the counsel and advice of the
late WiUiam Paterson, subsequently one of the judges of
the Supreme Court of the United States. To be thus early
in life honoured with the respect and esteem of such a man
as Judge Paterson, was highly flattering. Their correspond
ence commenced in 1772, and continued until the decease
of the judge. Extracts from his letters to Colonel Burr wiU
be given occasionally. He says, in a letter daled
" Princeton, January 17th, 1772.
" Dear Burr,
" I am just ready to take horse, and therefore cannot have
the pleasure of waiting on you in person. Be pleased to

Aged 16.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 37
accept of the enclosed notes on dancing. If you pitch
upon it as the subject of your next discourse, they may,
perhaps, furnish you with a few hints, and enable you to
compose with the greater faciUty and despatch. To do you
any little services in my power will afford me great satis
faction, and I hope you will take the liberty (it is nothing
mcft:e, my dear Burr, than the freedom of a friend) to call
upon me whenever you think I can.
" When I shall be here again is 'uncertain — ^perhaps not
before vacation. Forbear with me whUe I say that you
cannot speak too slow. Your good judgment generaUy leads
you to lay the emphasis on the most forcible word in the
sentence ; so far you act very right. But the misfortune is,
that you lay too great stress upon the emphatical word.
Every word should be distinctly pronounced; one should
not be so highly sounded as to drovm another. To see you
shine as a speaker would give great pleasure to your friends
in general, and to me in particular. I say nothing of your
own honour. The desire of making others happy wiU, to
a generous mind, be the strongest incentive. I am much
mistaken if such a desire has not great influence over you.
You are certainly capable of making a good speaker. Exert
yourself. I am in haste. " Dear Burr, adieu.
"Wm. Paterson."
Another letter, dated " Princeton, October 26th, 1772.
" Dear Burr,
" Our mutual friend, Stewart, with whom I spent part of
the evening, informed me you were still in Elizabethtown.
You are much fonder of that place than I am, otherwise you
would hardly be prevailed upon to make so long a stay.
But, perhaps, the reason that I fear it, makes you Uke it.
There is certainly something amorous in its very air. Nor
is this a case any way extraordinary or beyond belief. I

38 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 16.
have read (and it was in point, too) that a flock of birds, be
ing on the wing, and bending their flight towards a certain
town in Comiecticut, dropped down dead just as they were
over it. The people were at first fairly at a loss to account
for this phenomenon in any natural way. However, it was
at length agreed on aU hands that it was owing to the noi-
soraeness of the atraosphere, the smaUpox at that time be
ing very rife in the place. I should never have given credit
to the report, had it not come from so good a quarter as that
of New-England. For my part, I always drive through
Elizabethtown as quickly as possible, lest the soft infection
should steal upon me, or I should take it in with the very
air I breathe.
" Yesterday I went to hear Mr. Halsey, and there, too, I
saw his young and blooming wife. The old gentleman
seeras very fond of his rib, and, in good sooth, leers very
wistfuUy at her as she trips along by his side. Some al
lowance, however, raust be raade ; he is in the vale of Ufe ;
love is a new thing to him, and the honey-moon is not yet
over. ' They are amorous, and fond, and billing,
Like Philip and Mary on a shilling.'
I have promised to pay him a visit ; Stewart, or some of the
tutors, I believe, will accompany me, and I hope you will
too. " Since commencement I have been at a Dutch wedding,
and expect to be at one or two more very shortly. There
was drinking, and singing, and fiddling, and dancing. I was
pleased extremely. Every one seemed to be in good-hu
mour with himself, and this naturally led them all to be in
good-humour with one another.
" When the itch of scribbling seizes me, I hardly know
when to stop. The fit, indeed, seldom comes upon me;
but when it does, though I sit down with a design to be
short, yet my letter insensibly slides into length, and sweUs
perhaps into an enormous size. I know not how it hap-

"Aged' 16.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 39
pens, but on such occasions I have a knack qf throwing my
self out on paper that I cannot readily get the better of. It
is a sign, however, that I more than barely esteem the per
son I -write to, as I have constantly experienced that my
hand but illy performs its office unless my heart concurs. I
confess I cannot conceive how I got into so scribbling a vein
at present. It is now past eleven o'clock at night, and be
sides being on horse the greater part of the day, I intend
to start early to-morrow for Philadelphia. There I shall
see the races, and the play, and, what is of more value far
than all, there, too, I shall see Miss  , you know who.
" The enclosed letter to Spring I commit to your care. I
should have sent it before, as I wrote it immediately after
you left this place, but I really thought you were in New-
England long ere now. I know not his address ; perhaps
he is at Newport, perhaps he is not. If, on inquiry, you
find that the letter is wrongly directed, pray give it an en
velope, and superscribe it anew. If he is still at Newport,
it would, perhaps, more readily reach him from New- York
than from any part of New-England that you may be at. I
have said that if I am mistaken in directing the within let
ter, you should cover it and give it the proper address. Do,
dear Burr, get somebody who can -write at least a passable
hand to back it, for you give your letters such a sharp, slen
der, and lady-like cast, that almost every one, on seeing
them, would conclude there was a correspondence kept up
between my honest friend Spring and some of the female
tribe, which might, perhaps, affect him extremely in point
of reputation, as many people suppose that nothing of this
kind can be carried on between unmarried persons of the
two sexes without .being tinged with love ; and the rather
so, since the notion of Platonic love is, at the present day,
pretty generally, and I beUeve justly too, exploded. Pla
tonic love is arrant nonsense, and rarely, if ever, takes place
until the parties have at least passed their grand climacteric.
Besides, the New-England people, I am told, are odd, in-

40 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 16.
quisitive kind of beings, and, when pricked on by fooUsh
curiosity, may perhaps open the letter, which I do not
choose should be common to every eye.
" You gave me sorae hopes that you would see my good
friend Reeve before you retumed. If you do, make him my
respectful compliraents, and teU him that I fully designed to
write him, but that business prevented, that laziness hinder
ed, that — in short, teU him any thing, so it does not impeach
my affection, or lead him to think I have entirely forgotten
him. I am, " Dear Burr yours sincerely,
"Wm. Paterson."
In a letter to Dr. Spring, dated October 5, 1772, speaking
of the commencement. Judge Paterson says : — " The young
gentlemen went through their exercises in a manner passa
ble enough. The speakers were all tolerable — ^none of them
very bad nor very good. Our young friend Burr made a
graceful appearance ; he was exceUed by none, except per
haps by Bradford. Linn, too, was pretty generally appro
ved ; but, for my part, I could not forbear thinking that he
took rant, and rage, and madness for true spirit — a very
common mistake."
For some months after Burr graduated (1772), he remain
ed in college, reviewing his past studies, and devoting his
time to general literature. Possessed of an ample income,
having access to the coUege library, and continuing, from
time to time, as his correspondence shows, to supply him
self with scientific and literary productions, his mind was
greatly improved during this period. It is true he continu
ed to indulge in amusements and pleasures ; but, sleeping
Uttle, seldom more than six hours, he found ample time for
study. In the college there was a literary club, consisting of the
graduated and professors, and stiU known as TTie Clio-So
phie Society. Dr. Samuel S. Smith, subsequently presi-

Aged 16.] memoirs OF AARON BURR. 41
dent of the college, was then (1773) a professor. With
him young Burr was no favourite, and their dislike was mu
tual. The attendance of the professors was expected to be
regular. The members of the society in rotation presided
over its deliberations. On a particular occasion it was the
duty of young Burr to take the chair. At the hour of
meeting he took his seat as president. Dr. Smith had not
then arrived ; but, shortly after the business commenced, he
entered. Burr, leaning on one arm of the chair (for, al
though now sixteen years of age, he was too smaU to reach
both arms at the same tirae), began lecturing Professor
Smith for his non-attendance at an earlier hour, reraarking
that a different example to younger members was expected
from him, and expressing a hope that it might not again be
necessary to recur to the subject. Having finished his lec
ture, to the great amusement of the society, he requested
the professor to resume his seat. The incident, as may
well be imagined, long served as a college joke.
FROM timothy DWIGHT. New-Haven, March, 1772.
Dear Aaron,
By a poor candle, with poor eyes and a poorer brain, I sit
down to introduce a long wished-for correspondence. You
see how solicitous I am to preserve old connexions ; or,
rather, to begin new ones. Relationship, by the fashionable
notions of those large towns, which usurp a right to lead and
govem our opinions, is dwindled to a formal nothing — a mere
shell of ceremony. Our ancestors, whose honesty and sim
plicity (though different from the wise refinements of mod
ern politeness) were perhaps as deserving of imitation as
the insincere coldness of the present generation, cousin'd it
to the tenth degree of kindred. Though this was extending
the matter to a pitch of extravagance, yet it was certainly
founded upon a natural, rational principle. Who are so
naturaUy our friends as those who are born such ? I defy a
Vol. I.— F

42 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [A.ged 16.
New-Yorker, though caUous'd over with city politeness, to
be otherwise than pleased with a view of ancient hospitahty
to relations, when exercised by a person of good-breeding
and a genteel education.
Now, say you, what has this to do with the introduction
of a correspondence ? You shall know directly, sir. The
Edwardses have been always remarkable for this fondness
for their relations. If you have the least inclination to prove
yourself a true descendant of that respectable stock, you
cannot fail of answering me very soon. This (were I dis
posed) I could demonstrate by algebra and syllogisms in a
twinkling ; but hope you will believe me without either. I
never asked for many connexions in this way ; and was never
neglected but once, and that by a Jersey gentleman, to whom
I wrote and received no answer. I hope the disease is not
epidemical, and that you have not deterrained against any
coraraunication with the rest of the world. It was a morti
fication, I confess ; for I am too proud to be denied a request,
though unreasonable, as many of mine are — therefore, I in
sist upon an answer, at least, and as many raore as you can
find in your heart to give me ; promising, in retum, as many
by tale, though -without a large profit. I shall not warrant
their quality. Your sincere friend,
Timothy Dwight, Junr. •

FROM SAMUEL SPRING.
Newport, May 15th, 1772.
Dear Burr,
fe is a little strange to me that I have not heard any thing
of you since your examination. I don't know but you are
dissatisfied, since you are so backward to write ; however,
I will, if possible, keep such thoughts out of my mind tiU I
hear from you in particular. If you are let down a peg
lower, you may teU me of it. If you are perraitted to live
in college, you may teU me of it ; and if you are turned out,

Aged 16.] memoirs of aaron burr. 43
you may teU me of it. If you passed examination, and have
a syUogism to speak at commencement, if you are able to
make it, I suppose you may tell me of that likewise ; or, if
you are first in the class^^ou may tell me, if you will only
do it softly ; indeed, you may tell me any thing, for I pro
fess to be your friend. Therefore, since you can trust me
so far, I expect you wUl now write, and let me know a Uttle
how matters are at present in college. In particular, let me
know the state of the society (Cliosophic) ; and if I owe any
thing to it, do you pay it, and charge it to your humble ser
vant. '
I hope you will write the first opportunity, as I trust you
hate got some very good news to teU me concerning the
college in general, and yourself in particular. I have nothing
particular to write. It is very pleasant to me where I am
at present.
The study of divinity is agreeable ; — ^far more so than any
other study whatever would be to me. I hope to see the
time when you will feel it to be your duty to go into the
same study with a desire for the ministry. Remember, that
was the prayer of your dear father and mother, and is the
prayer of your friends to this time — that you should step
forth into his place, and raake it raanifest that you are a
friend to Heaven, and that you have a taste for its glory.
But this, you are sensible, can never be the case if you re-
inain in a state of nature. Therefore, iraprove the present
and future moments to the best of purposes, as knowing
the time will soon be upon you when you will wish that in
Uving you had Uved right, and acted rationaUy and like an
immortal. Your friend, Samuel Spring.
In 1806-7 great excitement was produced, in consequence
of Colonel Burr writing in cipher to General Wilkinson. In
this particular he seems to have had peculiar notions. How-

44 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 16.
ever innocent his correspondence, he was, apparently, desi
rous at aU times of casting around it a veU of mystery. The
„ same trait was conspicuous in his poUtical movements and
intercourse. This has been one of the weak points in Colonel
Burr's character. He was considered a mysterious man ;
and what was not understood by the vulgar, was pronounced
selfish or ambitious intrigue. Even his best friends were
^often dissatisfied with him on this account. Acting upon
this principle of mystery at every period of his Ufe, he has
corresponded with one or more individuals in cipher. While
yet a student in college, the letters between his sister and
himself are frequently written in cipher. So, also, much
of his correspondence with his most intimate friend, Mat
thias Ogden, and with others in 1774 and 1775, is in cipher.
Many of these letters, thus written, are now in existence.
To those, therefore, acquainted with the character and pe
culiarities of Colonel Burr, the fact of his writing a letter in
cipher would not be considered as any thing extraordinary ;
because it was a habit which he had adopted and pursued
for more than thirty years preceding the period when this
excitement was thus produced.
Before Burr left Princeton, and whUe he was indulging
himself in pleasures and amusements, he accidentally visited
a billiard-table. He engaged in play, and, although he had
never before seen the game, he was successful, and won
about half a Joe. On returning home with his gains, he re
flected on the incident with great mortification, and deter
mined never again to play ; which deterraination he adhered
to through life. Colonel Burr not only abstained from
][]~playing at billiards, but with equal pertinacity he refused to
play at any game for the purpose of acquiring money.
Although he had been somewhat tranquillized by his con
versation with Dr. Witherspoon on the subject of the awa
kening in college in 1772, yet he was not entirely at ease.
In consequence of which he came to a resolution not to enter
upon the concerns of life imtil this point was more satis-

Aged 17.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 45
factorily settled in his own mind. He concluded, therefore,
lo visit and consult the Rev. Joseph BeUamy, a venerable
and devoted friend of his late father, and to whom he was
known by reputation.
Joseph Bellamy, D. D., was an eminent preacher and theo
logical writer of Coimecticut, and intimate friend of Colonel
Burr's relative, the famous Jonathan Edwards, with whose
particular opinion he fully agreed. He was celebrated in
his days, before the estabUshment of theological seminaries,
as an instructer of young men preparing for the ministry.
The late Governor Wolcott used to speak of him with the
highest respect for his talent and moderation. He died in
1790. In the autumn of iTjSl Burr visited him at Bethlehem, in
Connecticut, and was feceived by his aged friend in a most
kind and affectionate manner. His advice, and the use of
his library, were promptly tendered. Burr commenced a
course of reading on religious topics, and was thus occupied
from sixteen to eighteen hours a day. His habits were those
of great abstinence, and a recluse. His conversations with
the reverend divine were encouraged and indulged in with
freedom, and his inquiries answered. Here he remained
until the spring of 1774, when, to use his own language, he
" came to the conclusion that the road to Heaven was open
to all alike." He, however, frora that time forward, avoided
most studiously all disputation on the subject of religion.
An impression has been created that Colonel Burr was
placed by his guardian under Dr. Bellamy, for the purpose
of studying divinity. This is an error. His visit to the
Rev. Dr. was not the result of a conference or communica
tion with any person whatever ; but the volition of his own
mind, and for the purpose already stated. In fact, after
Burr entered college, his studies and his future pursuits in
life appear to have been left entirely under his own control.
"Whether this arose from indolence on the part of his guar-
vdian, or from pertinacity in young Burr, is imcertain ; per-

46 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 18.
haps a little of both, united with the great confidence which
his uncle reposed in his judgment and talents.
In the spring of 1774, whUe he yet resided at Dr. Bella
my's, he contemplated studying law; but was undecided
whether he should read with Pierpont Edwards, or with his
brother-in-law, Tappan Reeve, and upon this subject he
wrote his guardian, who replies, in a letter dated
" stockbridge, February llth, 1774.
" Whether you study law with Mr. Reeve or your uncle
Pierpont is a matter of indifference with me. I would have
you act your pleasure therein. I shall write to your uncle
upon it, but yet treat it as a matter of doubt. Your board I
shall settle with Dr. Bellaray myseU". I wUl send you cash
to pay for your horse very soon. You may expect it in the
forepart of March. If I had known of this want of yours
sooner, I would have paid it before this.
" Your affectionate uncle,
" Timothy Edwards."

CHAPTER IV.
In May, 1774, he left the Rev. Mr. Bellamy's, and went
to the house of his brother-in-law, Tappan Reeve, where
his time was occupied in reading, principally history; but
especially those portions of it which related to wars, and
battles, and sieges, which tended to inflame his natural mili
tary ardour. The absorbing topics of taxation and the rights
of the people were agitating the then British colonies from
one extreme to the other. These subjects, therefore, could
not pass unnoticed by a youth of the inquiring mind and
ardent feeUngs of Burr. \ Constitutional law, and the rela
tive rights of the crown tod the colonists, were examined
\

Aged 18.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 47
with all the acumen which he possessed, and he became a
whig from reflection and conviction, as well as from feeling.
At this period. Burr's most intimate and confidential cor
respondent was Matthias Ogden, of New-Jersey, subse
quently Colonel Ogden, a gaUant and distinguished revolu
tionary oflacer. He writes to Burr, dated
" Elizabethtown, August 9th, 1774.
"Dear Aaron,
" I received yours by Mr. Beach, dated Sunday. I am
not a little pleased that you have the doctor (Bellaray) so
completely under your thumb. Last Saturday I went a
crabbing. Being in want of a thole-pin, I substituted a large
jackknife in its stead, with the blade open and sticking up.
It answered the purpose of rowing very well ; but it seems
that was not the only purpose it had to answer ; for, after
we had been sorae tirae on the flats, running on the raud, as
the devil would have it, in getting into the boat I threw my
leg directly across the edge of the knife, which left a decent
mark of nearly four inches long, and more than one inch
deep. It was then up anchor and away. Our first port was
Dayton's ferry, where Dr. Bennet happened to be, but with
out his apparatus for se-wing, to the no small disadvantage
of me, who was to undergo the operation. Mrs. Dayton,
however, furnished him with a large darning-needle, which,
as soon as I felt going through my skin, I thought was raore
like a gimlet boring into rae ; but, with the help of a glass
of wine, I grinned and bore it, until he took a few stitches in
the wound. So much for crabbing.
" I was at New- York about a fortnight since, on my way
to Jamaica, Long Island. The object of this joumey you
understand. I stayed at Mr. Willett's three days, and then
went to Colonel Morris's, and spent two days there very
agreeably. Nothing occurred worth relating, "unless it be
some transactions ofthe greatest fool I gver knew.
" Mr. EUiot, coUector of New-York,'' Mr. and/ftrs. De-

48 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 18,
lancey and daughter, dined there on Sunday. Wither
spoon* was led in with a large bag tied to his hair, that
reached down to the waistband of his breeches, and a brass
locket hanging from his neck below his stomach. He was
tumed round and round by each of the company : was asked
where he got that very neat bag, and the valuable locket ?
He readily answered, they were a present from Lady Kitty,
who was violently in love with him, and he expected to
marry her in a short time. He is so credulous that any
child might impose on hira. I told him that I came from
Lord Stirling's, and that he might write by me to Lady Kitty.
Accordingly, he wrote a long letter and gave me, which I
opened there, and, by desire of Colonel Morris, answered it,
when I got to New-York, in Lady Kitty's name, inforraing
hira that he must teU Mr. Morris to provide himself with
another tutor, as she intended marrying hira without fail the
first of September, which I suppose he will as sincerely be
lieve as he does his existence. "Yours affectionately,
" Matt. Ogden."

to MATTHIAS OGDEN.
Litchfield, August 17th, 1774.
Dear Matt.,
Before I proceed any further, let me tell you that, a few
days ago, a mob of several hundred persons gathered at
Barrington, and tore down the house of a man who wafe
suspected of being unfriendly to the liberties of the people ;
broke up the court, then sitting at that place, &c. As
many of the rioters belonged to this colony, and the Supe
rior Court was then sitting at this place, the sheriff was
immediately despatched to apprehend the ringleaders. He
returned yesterday with eight prisoners, who were taken
without r.esi^4n^ But this minute there is entering the
relative of President Witherspoon.

Aged 18.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 49
town on horseback, with great regularity, about fifty men,
armed each with a white club ; and I observe others con
tinually dropping in. I shall here leave a blank, to give
you (perhaps in heroics) a few sketches of my unexampled
valour, should they proceed to hostilities ; and, should they
not, I can then tell you what I would have done.
The abovementioned sneaA* all gave bonds for their ap
pearance, to stand a trial at the next court for committing a
riot. ^ Yours affectionately, A. Burr.
On the llth of September, 1774, he again ¦writes Og
den : —
I wrote you last Thursday, and enclosed one of the
songs you desired, which was all I could then obtain. Miss
 , the fountain of melody, furnished me with it. I
knew that she, and no one else, had the notes of the en
closed song. I told her I should be glad to copy them for
a most accomplished young gentleman in the Jerseys. She
engaged to bring them the first time she came in town, for
she lives about two miles from here. I this day received it,
precisely as you have it. You may depend upon its being
the work of her own hands. If this don't deserve an acros
tic, I don't know — sense, beauty, modesty, and music. Mat
ter plenty.
Pray tell me whether your prayers are heard, and a
good old saint, though a little in your way, is yet in Heav
en. But remember, Matt., you can never be without plague,
and when one gets out of the way, a worse, very often,
supplies its place ; so, I tell you again, be content, and
hope for better times.
I am determined never to have any dealings with your
friend Cupid until I know certainly how naaaB^^jjjjfill turn
out with you": for should some lucky dev^^^'mlbptween
my friend and  , which kind HeaveiT^^rtimi^ never
Vol. I.— G 3

50 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 19.
be ; in such a case, I say, I would choose to be untied, and
then, you know, the wide world is before us.
Yours sincerely, A. Burr.
Burr again writes him, dated Litchfield, February 2d, 1775.
I sent you a packet by N. Hazard, and from that time to
this I have not had the most distant prospect of conveying
a letter to you. However, I have written a number of
scrawls, the substance of which you shall now have.
The times with me are pretty much as usual ; not so
full of action as I could wish ; and I find this propensity to
action is very apt to lead me into scrapes. T. B. has been
here since I wrote you last ; he carae very unexpectedly.
You wiU conclude we had some confab about Miss  .
We had but little private chat, and the whole of that little
was about her. He would now and then insinuate slyly
what a clever circumstance it would be to have such a wife,
with her fortune.
T. Burr,* by his kindness to me, has certainly laid me
under obligations, which it would be the height of ingrati
tude in me ever to forget ; but I cannot conceive it my
duty to be in the least influenced-by these in the present
case. Were I to conform to his inclination, it could give
him pleasure or pain only as the consequence was good or
bad to me. The sequel might be such as would inevitably
cause him the most bitter anguish ; and, in all probabiUty,
would be such if I should consult his fancy instead of my
judgment. And who can be a judge of these consequences
but myself ? But even supposing things could be so situa
ted that, by gratifying him, I should certainly be the means
of his enjoying some permanent satisfaction, and should
subject myself to a bare probability of misery as permanent,
* Uncle to Colonel Aaron Burr.

Aged 19.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 51
would it not stagger the most generous soul to think of
sacrificing a whole Ufe's comfort to the caprice of a friend '
But this is a case that can never happen, unless that friend
has some mean and selfish motive, such as I know T. Bun-
has not. I can never believe that too great deference to
the judgment of another, in these raatters, can arise from
any greatness of soul. It appeeurs to me the genuine off
spring of meanness. I suppose you are impatient for my
reply to these importunities. I found my tongue and fancy
too cramped to say much. However, I rallied my thoughts
and set forth, as weU as I was able, the inconveniences and
uncertainty attending such an affair. I am determined to
be very blunt the next time the matter is urged.
I have now and then an affair of petty gallantry, which
might entertain you if you were acquainted with the different
characters I have to deal with ; but, without that, they would
be very insipid.
I have lately engaged in a correspondence of a peculiar
nature. I write once, and sometimes twice a week, to a
lady who knows not that she ever received a line from me.
The letters, on both sides, are mostly sentimental. Those
of the lady are doubtless written with more sincerity, and
less reserve, than if she knew I had any concern with them.
Mr.  received a letter from Miss  . He is very
little versed in letter-writing, and engaged, or rather permit
ted, me to answer it, not thinking thereby to embark in a
regular correspondence, but supposing the matter would thus
end. I have had many scruples of conscience about this
affair, though I really entered into it not with any sinister
view, but purely to obUge  . I should be glad to know
your opinion of it. You will readily observe the advantage
I have over  . He is of an unsuspicious make, and
this gives me an opportunity (if I had any inclination)
to insert things which might draw from her secrets she
would choose I should be ignorant of. But I w^uld suffer
crucifixion rather than be guilty of such an unparalleled

52 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 19.
meanness. On the contrary, I have carefully avoided say
ing any thing which might have the least tendency to make
her write what she would be unwiUuig I should see.
• Adieu. A. Burr.
On the 12th of March, 1775, Burr writes Ogden : —
I have received your and Aaron's* letters. I was a little
disappointed that you did not send an acrostic ; but I stiU
entertain some secret hope that the muse (who, you say,
has taken her flight) will shortly retum, and, by a new and
stricter intimacy, more than repay the pains of this moment
ary absence.
Your happiness. Matt., is really almost the only present
thing I can contemplate with any satisfaction ; though I,
like other fools, view futurity -with partiality enough to
make it very desirable ; but I must first throw reason aside,
and leave fancy uncontroUed. In some of these happy
freaks I have endeavoured to take as agreeable a sleigh-
ride as you had to Goshen ; but I find it impracticable, un
less you will make one of the party ; for my imagination,
when most romantic, is not lively or delusive enough to
paint an object that can, in my eyes, atone for your absence.
From this you will conclude that the news you heard of
me at Princeton is groundless. It is so far from being
true, that scarce two persons can fix on the same lady to
tease me with. However, I would not have you think that
this diversity of opinion arises from the volatility of my
constitution, or that I am in love with every new or pretty
face I see. But, I hope, you know me too well to need a
caution of this nature.
' I am very glad to hear of  's downfall. But, with aU
that fellow's low-lived actions, I don't more sincerely de
spise him than I do certain other narrow-hearted scoun-
* Subsequently Governor Ogden, of New-Jersey, and brother of Matthias.

Aged 19.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 53
drels you have among you. Mean as he is, he appears to
me to have (or rather to have had) more of something at
bottom that bordered on honour, than sorae who will pass
through life respected by many. I say this, not so much
to raise him above the common standard of d  Is, as to
sink them below it. My idea of a d  1 is composed more
of malice than of meanness.
Since I commenced this letter I have passed through a
scene entirely new. Now, as novelty is the chief and al
most only ingredient of happiness here below, you'll fancy
I have had some lucky turn. I think it quite the reverse, I
assure you. I have serious thoughts of leaving the matter
here, that you may be on the rack of curiosity for a month
or so. Would not this be truly satanic ? What would be
your conjectures in such a case ? The first, I guess, that I
was sadly in love, and had met with some mortifying rebuff.
What would you say if I should tell you that  ¦ had
absolutely professed love for me? Now I can see you with
both hands up — eyes and mouth wide open; but don't be
over scrupulous. Trust me, I tell you the whole truth. I
cannot at present give you any further particulars about the
matter, than that I felt foolish enough, and gave as cautious
a turn to it as I could, for which I am destined to suffer her
future hostility.
Last week I received a letter from T. Edwards, which I
fear may prove fatal to the dear project of the 15th of April.
He intends to be here about the middle of that month. Sup
posing he should come here the 13th of April, what could I
do ? Run off and leave him ? Observe the uncertainty of
aU sublunary things. I, who a few months ago was as un
controlled in m.y motions as the lawless meteors, am now
(sad reverse !) at the beck of a person forty miles off. But
aU this lamentation, if weU considered, is entirely groundless,
for {between you and me) I intend to see you at Elizabethtown
this spring. But even supposing I should fail in this —
where is this sad reverse of fortune? — this lamentable

54 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 19
change? Is it not a very easy matter to fix on another
time, and write you word by T. Edwards ?
I have struck up a correspondence with J. BeUamy (son
to the famous divine of that name). He has very lately set
tled in the practice of the law at Norwich, a place about sev
enty miles S. E. of this. He is one of the cleverest feUows
I have to deal with. Sensible, a person of real humour, and
is an exceUent judge of mankind, though he has not had op
portunity of seeing much of the world. Adieu.
A. Burr.

FROM JONATHAN BELLAMY.
Norwich, March 14th, 1775.
To do justice to circumstances, which you know are of
the greatest importance in order to form a true estimate of
what a person either says or does, it is indispensably neces
sary for me to tell you that it not only rains very generously,
but that it is as dark as it was before light was created. It
would be ridiculous to suppose that you need information
that nothing but the irresistible desire of writing coidd pos
sibly keep me at home this evening.
I had received your February favour only just time to
laugh at it once, when the melancholy news that Betsy De
votion, of Windham, was very dangerously sick, banished
every joyous thought from my heart. This Betsy you may
remember to have heard mentioned near the name of Natty
Huntington, who died last December ; and a very angel she
was too, I assure you. You see I speak of her in the past
sense, for she has left us ; and her friends are sure she is
not less an angel now than she was ten days ago. Very
certain I am, that if a natural sweetness of disposition can
scale Heaven's walls, she went over like a bird. But I be
lieve we must leave her and all the rest of our departed
friends to be sentenced by a higher Board.
" Transports last not in the human heart ;
But all with transports soon agree to part."

Aged 19] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 55
If nature, in spite of us, did not take care of herself, we
could not but be perfectly wretched. Philosophy is the
emptiest word in the dictionary. And you may observe,
wherever you find them,' that those persons who profess to
place all their reliance upon it, under every affecting circum
stance of life, do but make use of the term as a mask for
an iron heart. " But" (as the devil said on another occa
sion) " put forth thine hand, and touch his bone, and his
flesh, and he will curse thee to thy face." They have as
little fortitude as anybody when sufferings pinch home upon
them. Thus have I relieved a heart that perhaps felt a Uttle
too full ; and if it is at the expense of my head, I have nev
ertheless the consolation that it will be received only as the
overflowings of my present feelings.
" When and where shall I see you again ?" somebody
once asked me. The Lord only knows. Perhaps at the
election at Hartford. If we can meet there — there will be
time for notice. But, happen as it may, be assured that I
am your most sincere friend, Jonathan Bellamy.
" Stick my compliments in for him," says Hannah Phelps,
a jolly girl of fourteen. FROM MATTHIAS OGDEN.
Elizabethtown, March 18th, 1775.
Since we last saw each other, the 15th of April has been
my mark, but the receipt of yours ofthe 12th has blotted it
from my memory, for which nothing could atone but the ex
pectation of seeing you here nearly as soon. :
I read with pleasure your love intrigues ; your anony
mous correspondence with Miss  , &c., and, with as
much seriousness, the part relative to  , Thaddeus Burr's
overtures, &c.
Steadily, Aaron. Money is aUuring, and there is a pleas
ure in gratifying a friend ; but let not a fortune buy your

56 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 19.
peace, nor sell your happiness. Neither be too much biased
by a friend, or any one's advice, in a matter of so great conse
quence to yourself. Perhaps she is worthy your love, and, if
I could think she was, I would not say a single thing to dis
courage you. Be cautious, Aaron ; weigh the matter well.
Should your generous heart be sold for naught, it would
greatly hurt the peace of mine. Let not her sense, her edu
cation, her modesty, her graceful actions, or her wit, betray
you. Has she a soul framed for love? For friendship?
But why need I advise a person of better judgment than
myself? It is not advice, my friend; it is only caution.
You have a difficult part to act. If you reject, she curses :
if you pity, she takes it for encouragement. Matters with
me go on smoothly.
I am now making up a party to go to the Falls, to be
ready against you come. My best regards to Mr. and Mrs.
Reeve. I remain happy in the enjoyment of  's love, and
am, Your unfeigned friend. Matt. Ogden.
After the decease of President Burr, Lyman HaU was
intrasted by the executors with the collection of sundry
debts due to the estate. A removal, and his various avoca
tions, prevented his performing that duty with the necessary
promptitude. In consequence, the heirs were exposed to
loss. A friend of the family, the Rev. James CaldweU, of
New-Jersey, wrote him on the subject, and his answer is
so honourable, that it is deemed only an act of justice to an
upright man to record it here. It is another instance of the
integrity in private life of those patriots that planned and ac
complished the American Revolution. It will be seen that
Mr. HaU was a member of the Congress of 1775 from the
State of Georgia.

Aged 19.] MEMOIRS or aaron burr. 57
PhUadelphia, 17th May, 1775.
Rev. Sir,
Since I saw you, and afterwards Mr. Ogden, in Georgia,
I have written to my attorneys and correspondents in Con
necticut, to give me all the information they could obtain
respecting the affairs and concerns of the late President
Burr, left in my hands ; which I had delivered over, before
I left that colony in 1759, into the hands of Thaddeus Burr,
of Fairfield ; but no satisfactory answer can as yet be ob
tained. One debt, indeed, has been discovered, of about forty
pounds New- York currency ; but the bond on which it is
due is as yet concealed.
On the whole, I find that it is not in my power to rede
liver those securities for moneys which I was once in pos
session of; nor have I received the moneys due on those
which weBe good ; but am determined that I will mak-e just
satisfaction to the clairaant heirs (orphans) of the late Presif
dent Burr. It is, I know, my indispensable duty, and I have
for that purpose brought a quantity of rice to this city, the
avails of which, when sold, shall be appropriated to that use.
I should be glad that you, or Mr. Ogden, the executor, could
be here to transact the business, and, on a settlement, give
me a power of attorney, properly authenticated, to recover
any part of those moneys I can find due when I shall arrive
in Connecticut, to which I propose going as soon as the
Congress rises. As I am in -Congress, I cannot see youdi'^
rectly ; but, if liberty can be obtained, shall wait on you or
Mr. Ogden, or both, in my way to New- York, in a few
days ; but I think Mr. Ogden, the executor, if it wiU suit,
had better come here and settle it. I mention him because
I suppose he is the proper person to discharge me, and give
me a power of attorney. I am, reverend sir.
With esteem, yours,
Lyman HaT-Ij,
The Rev. Jas. Caldwell, Elizabethtown,
Vol, I — H 3*

58 memoirs or aaron burr. [Aged 19.

CHAPTER V.
In his retirement at the house of his brother-in-law (Judge
Reeve), Burr was aroused by the shedding of his country
men's blood at Lexington on the 19th of AprU, 1775. Im
mediately after that battle, he wrote a letter to his friend
Ogden, requesting him to come on to Litchfield and Eirrange
for joining the standard of their country. Ogden wrote for
answer that he could not make the necessary arrangements.
The battle of Bunker's HiU (on the 16th of June, 1775)
followed in rapid succession ; whereupon he started for
Elizabethtown, New-Jersey, to meet Ogden, and aid him in
preparations for the journey to Cambridge, where the Amer
ican army was encamped.
/ ' Burr had been reading those portions of history which
detailed the achievements of the greatest miUtary men and
tacticians of the age in which they Uved. His idea of dis-
\ cipline and subordination was formed accordingly. With
the most enthusiastic feelings, and under the influence of
such opinions. Burr, in company with his friend Matthias
Ogden, left Elizabethtown, in July, 1775, for Cambridge,
with the intention of tendering their services in defence of
American liberty. He had now entered his twentieth year,
but, in appearance, was a mere stripling.
^ It has been seen that, whatever were Burr's pursuits or
studies, his habits were those of intense application. He
had already imbibed a military ardour equalled by few —
surpassed by none. Panting for glory on the battle-field,
information and improvement as a soldier were now the ob
jects that absorbed aU his thoughts. On his joining the
army, however, he was sadly disappointed in his expecta
tions. The whole was a scene of idleness, confusion, and

Aged 19.] memoirs of aaron burr. 59
dissipation. From the want of camp-police, the health of
the men was impaired, and many sickened and died. Of
the officers, some were ignorant of their duty, whUe others
were fearful of enforcing a rigid discipline, lest it should
give offence to those who were unaccustomed to restraint.
Deep mortification and disappointment preyed upon the ^
mind of young Burr,
The foUowing original letters are found aniong the papers
of Colonel Burr, and, as casting some light upon the history
of those times, are deemed of sufficient interest (and not
inapplicable) to be inserted in this wojrk. The patriotic re
ply of General Montgomery is above all praise.
ROGER SHERMAN TO GENERAL DAVID WOOSTER.
Philadelphia, June 23d, 1775,
Dear Sir,
The Congress, having determined it necessary to keep up
an army for the defence of America at the charge of the
United Colonies, have appointed the following general offi
cers : — George Washington, Esq., commander-in-chief. Ma
jor-generals Ward, Lee, Schuyler, and Putnam. Brigadier-
generals Pomeroy, Montgomery, yourself. Heath, Spencer,
Thomas, Sullivan (of New-Hampshire), and one Green, of
Rhode-Island, I am sensible that, according to your former rank, you
were entitled to the place of a major-general ; and as one
was to be appointed -in Connecticut, I heartUy recommend
ed you to the Congress. I informed them of the arrange
ment made by our assembly, which I thought would be sat
isfactory to have them continue in the same order. But, as
General Putnam's fame was spread abroad, and especially
his successful enterprise at Noddle's Is^land, the account of
which had just arrived, it gave him a preference in the opin
ion of the delegates in general, so that his appointment was
unanimous among the colonies ; but, from your known abU
ities and firm attachment to the American cause, we were

60 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [A-gcd 19.
very desirous of your contmuance in the army, and hope
you wiU accept of the appointment made by the Congress.
I think the pay of a brigadier is about one hundred and
twenty-five dollars per month. I suppose a commission is
sent to you by General Washington. We received inteUi
gence yesterday of an engagement at Charlestown, but have
not had the particulars. All the Connecticut troops are now
taken into the. continental army. I hope proper care wiU be
taken to secure the colony against any sudden invasion,
which must be at their own expense.
I have nothing further that I am at liberty to acquaint you
with of the doings of the Congress but what have been raade
public. I would not have any thing pubUshed in the papers
that I write, lest soraething may inadvertently escape me
which ought not to be published. I shoidd be glad if ji-ou
would write to me. every convenient opportunity, and inform
me of such occurrences, and other matters, as you raay
think proper and useful for me to be acquainted with. The
general officers were elected in the Congress, not by nom
ination, but by ballot.
I am, with great esteem,
Your humble servant,
Roger Sherman.
David Wooster, Esq.
JAMES duane, of NEW-YORK, TO GENERAL MONTGOMERY.
Philadelphia, July 21st, 1775.
Dear Sir,
I ara directed by the Congress to acquaint you of an ar
rangement in the Massachusetts department, and the reason
which led to it, lest, by misunderstanding it, you might
think yourself neglected.
When brigadiers-general were to be appointed, it was
agreed that the first in nomination should be one of the
Massachusetts generals. The gentlemen from that prov
ince recommended General Pomeroy, who was accordingly

Aged 19.] memoirs of aaron burr. 61,
fixed upon ; but, before his commission arrived at the camp,
he had retired from the army. Under these circumstances
the Congress thought it just to fill up the coraraission de
signed for Mr. Pomeroy with the name of General Thonfas
as first brigadier. You, consequently, hold the rank to
which you were elected.
I sincerely hope this may not give you any displeasure,
as I am confident no disrespect was intended.
Be pleased to accept my sincere wishes for your honour
and happiness, and particularly in the discharge of the im
portant trust which you have undertaken.
I am, with regard.
Dear sir, your most obedient servant, Jas. Duane.
General Montgomery. general montgomery's answer.
Dear Sir,
I have been honoured with your letter of the 21st inst.
My acknowledgments are due for the attention shown me
by the Congress.
I submit, with great cheerfulness, to any ^regulation they,
in their prudence, shall judge expedient. Laying aside the
punctilio of the soldier, I shall endeavour to discharge my
duty to society, considering myself only as the citizen, re
duced to the melancholy necessity of taking up arms for the
public safety.
I am, &c., R. M.
Answer.
The preceding is endorsed, in the handwriting of General
Montgomery, on the back of Mr. Duane's letter.
The laxity of the discipline which pervaded the camp at
Cambridge, the inexperience of the officers, and the con
tests and petty squabbles about rank, aU tended to excite

62 MEMOIRS or AARON BURR. [Aged 19.
great jealousy and discontent in the army. As yet. Burr
was attached to no particular corps. He mingled indiscrim
inately with confiictiug factions, untU, disgusted with the
sfcene which he daily witnessed, he was violently attacked
with a nervous fever, by which he was confined to his bed.
One day he heard Ogden and some young men of the
army conversing, in an apartment adjoining that in which he
was lying, on the subject of an expedition. He caUed
Ogden to his bedside, and inquired what was the nature of
the expedition of which they were speaking. Ogden in-
r formed him that Colonel Arnold, with a detachment of ten
or twelve hundred men, was about to proceed through the
wilderness for the purpose of attacking Quebec. Burr in
stantly raised himself, up in the bed, and declared that he
would accompany them ; and, so pertinacious was he on this
' point, that he immediately, although much enfeebled, com
menced dressing himself. Ogden expostulated, and spoke
of his debilitated state — referred to the hardships and pri
vations that he must necessarily endure on such a march,
&c. But all was unavailing. Young Burr was determined,
and was immoveable. He forthwith selected four or five
hale, hearty fellows, to whom he proposed that they should
form a mess, and unite their destiny on the expedition through
the wildemess. To this arrangement they cheerfully acce
ded. His friend Ogden, and others of his acquaintance,
were conveyed in carriages from Cambridge to Newbury
port, distant about sixty railes ; but Burr, with his new asso
ciates in arras, on the 14th of September, 1775, shouldered
their muskets, took their knapsacks upon their backs, and
marched to the place of embarcation*
FROM J. BELLAMY. Litchfield, August 17th, 1775.
My dearest Soldier,
I was infinitely surprised to hear from you in the army.
I can hardly tell you what sensations I did not feel at the

Aged 19.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 63
time. ShaU not attempt to describe them, though they de
prived me of a night's sleep. But that was not spent aUo-
gether unhappily. My busybody, Fancy, led me a most
romantic chase ; in which, you may be sure, I visited your
tent ; beheld you (unnoticed) musing on your present cir
cumstances, apparently agitated by every emotion which
would naturally fill the heart of one who has come to the
resolution to risk his life for his country's freedom. You
will excuse my mentioning, that from a deep, absent medi
tation, partly expressed by half-pronounced soUloquies, I
beheld you start up, clap your hand upon your sword, and
look so fiercely, that it almost frightened me. The scene,
on your discovering me, iraraediately changed to something
more tender ; but I won't waste paper.
If you should happen to find Dr. James Cogswell, who
is in Colonel Spencer's regiment, please to give my best
love to him, and tell him he is a lazy scoundrel.
It rains, my boy, excessively. Does it not drop through
your tent ? Write often to Jona. Bellamy.
To A. Burr.
As soon as the guardian and relatives of young Burr
heard of his deterraination to accompany Arnold in his
expedition against Quebec, they not only remonstrated, but
they induced others, who were friendly to him, to adopt a
similar course. While he remained at Cambridge, he
received numerous letters on the subject. The two foUow
ing are selected : —
FROM DR. JAMES COGSWELL.
Camp in Rozbury, 9th September, 1775.
I am extremely sorry to hear that you are deterrained on
the new expedition to Quebec. I am sorry on my own ac
count, as I promised myself much satisfaction and pleasure
in your company : but I am not altogether selfish ; I am

64 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 19.
sorry on yours. The expedition in which you are engaged
is a very arduous one; and those who are engaged in it
must unavoidably undergo great hardships. Your consti
tution (if I am not rauch raistaken) is very deUcate, and not
formed for the fatigues of the camp. The expedition, I am
sensible, is a glorious one, and nothing but a persuasion of
my inabihty to endure the hardships of it would have de
terred me from engaging in it. If this excuse was sufficient
for me, I ara persuaded it is for you, and ought to influence
you to abandon all thoughts of undertaking it. I have no
friend so dear to me (and I love my friends) but that I am
wiUing to sacrifice for the good of the grand — the important
cause, in which we are engaged ; but, to think ofa friend's
sacrificing himself, without any valuable end being answered
by it, is painful beyond expression. You loill die ; / know
you will die in the undertaking ; it is impossible for you to
endure the fatigue. I am so exercised about your going,
that I should come and see you if I had not got the Scrip
tural excuse, — a wife, and cannot come.
My dear friend, you must not go: I cannot bear the
thoughts of it. 'Tis little less melancholy than foUowing
you to your grave. Your affectionate friend,
James Cogswell.

FROM PETER COLT.
Watertown, llth September, 1775.
I cannot retire to rest till I have wnritten you a few lines,
to excuse my casting so raany discourageraents in the way
of your journey to Quebec. At first I did not think it so
hazardous ; but, upon inquiring of those who had more
knowledge of the country, thought it too fatiguing an under
taking for one of your years ; and I find it altogether against
the sentiments of your friends. I think you might be fairly
excused, without the risk of being reported as timid, as the
hopes of your family depend in a great degree upon you.

Aged 19.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 65
I should have rejoiced to see you relinquish this expedition ;
but, as you are determined to pursue it, must beg you not to
let any thing we have said to you depress your spirits, or
damp your resolution, as it may otherwise have a fatal effect.
We have held up the dark side of the picture, in order to de
ter you from going. You must now think only on the bright
side, and make the least of every disagreeable circumstance
attending your march. Let no difficulty discourage you.
The enterprise is glorious, and, if it succeeds, will redound
to the honour of those who have planned and executed it.
May God give you health and strength equal to the fa
tigue of the march, and preserve you safe from every dan
ger you may encounter. Make Quebec a safe retreat to the
forces. I hope to have a particular description of Canada
from you when you retum.
Don't turn Catholic for the sake of the girls. Again I beg
you to forget what I have said to discourage you. It pro
ceeded from love to you, and not a desire of rendering you
ridiculous. Adieu, my dear friend. Yours,
Peter Colt.
A day or two after Burr's arrival at Newburyport, he was
called upon by a messenger from his guardian, Timothy Ed
wards, with instructions to bring the young fugitive back. A
letter from his uncle (T. Edwards) was delivered to him at
the same time. Having read the letter, and heard the ines-
senger's communication, he coolly addressed him, and asked,
" How do you expect to take me back, if I should refuse to
go ? If you were to make any forcible attempt upon me, I
would have you hung up in ten minutes." After a short
pause the messenger presented a second letter from his
guardian, and with it a smaU remittance in gold. It was
couched in tFe most affectionate and tender language, im
portuning him to return ; and depicting, in the darkest col
ours, the sufferings he must endure. if he survived the at-
Vol. I.— I

66 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 19.
tempt to reach Quebec. It affected young Burr very sensi
bly, insomuch that he shed tears. But his destiny was fixed.
He wrote, however, a respectful letter to his uncle, explana
tory of his reasons for accompanying the arm.y, and expres
sive of his gratitude for the kindness he had experienced.
On or about the 20th of September, 1775, the troops un
der the command of Arnold embarked at Newburyport.
This detachment was to penetrate Canada about ninety or
one hundred raUes below Montreal, proceeding by the Ken
nebec river, and thence through the wUdemess between the
St. Lawrence and the settled parts of Maine. In this route,
precipitous mountains, deep and almost impenetrable swamps
and morasses, were to be passed. Arnold, in a letter to Gen
eral Washington, dated Fort Weston, September 25th, 1775,
says : " I design Chaudiere Pond as a general rendezvous,
and frora thence proceed in a body. I beUeve, from the best
information I can procure, -we shall be able to perform the
journey in twenty days ; the distance from this being about
one hundred and eighty miles."
During the march through the wildemess, no regard what
ever was paid to order or discipline. Every man was left
to take care of himself, and make the best of his way through
the woods. The sufferings of this detachment from wet,
and cold, and hunger, were excessive. From the latter,
however. Burr suffered less than any of his companions. His
abstemious habits in regard to eating seemed peculiarly cal
culated for such an expedition. Both Burr and Ogden had
been accustomed, in small boats, to aquatic excursions round
Staten Island and in its vicinity. They were skilful helms
men, and in this particular, in passing the rapids, were fre
quently useful. Notwithstanding this qualification, how
ever. Burr, with some soldiers in a boat, was carried over a
fall of nearly twenty feet. One man was drowned, and much
of the baggage lost. The weather was cold, and it was with
great difficulty that he reached the shore.
" Arnold, who, at the head of the two first divisions, stiU

Aged 19.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 67
prosecuted his march, was thirty-two days traversing a hid
eous wildemess, without seeing a house or any thing hu
man. The troops were under the necessity of hauling their
bateaux up rapid streams ; of taking them upon their shoul
ders, with aU their provisions, across ceurying-places ; and of
traversing, and frequently repassing, for the purpose of bring
ing their baggage, deep morasses, thick woods, and high
mountains. These impediments, notwithstanding the zeal
ous and wonderfully persevering exertions of his men, so
protracted his march, that, though he had expected certainly
to enter Canada about the middle of October, he did not
reach the first settlements on the Chaudiere, which empties
itself into the St. Lawrence near Quebec, until the third of
November. ," On the high grounds which separate the waters of the
Kennebec from those of the St. Lawrence, the scanty rem
nant of provisions was divided among the companies, each
of which was directed, without attempting to preserve any
connexion with another, to raarch with the utmost possible
celerity into the inhabited country. While those who gained
the front were yet thirty miles from the first poor and scat
tered habitations which composed that frontier of Canada,
their last morsel of food was consumed. But, preceded by
Arnold, who went forward for the purpose of procuring for
them something which might satisfy the first demands of
nature, the troops stiU persevered in their labours, with a
vigour unimpaired by the hardships they had encountered,
untU they once more found themselves in regions frequented
by human beings."'*
On the arrival of Arnold's detachment at Chaudiere
Pond, Burr was despatched with a verbal communication- 1*.^
General Montgomery. He disguised himself as a young
Catholic priest. In this order of men he was willing to re
pose confidence. He knew that the French Catholics were
• Marshall's Life of Washmgton. i

68 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 19.
not satisfied with theU situation under the provincial gov
ernment ; but especially the priesthood. Feeling no appre
hension for his own safety from treachery, he proceeded to
a learned and reverend father of the church, to whom he
communicated frankly who he was, and what was his ob
ject. Burr was master of the Latin language, and had an
iraperfect knowledge of the French. The priest was an ed
ucated man, so that a conversation was held with but little
difficulty. • He endeavoured to dissuade Burr from the en
terprise. Spoke of it as impossible to accomplish. He rep
resented the distance as great, and through an enemy's coun
try. The boyish appearance of Burr induced the reverend
divine to consider him a raere chUd. Discovering, however,
the settled purpose of the yoting adventurer, the priest pro
cured hira a confidential guide and a cabriolet (for the ground
was now covered with snow), and, thus prepared, he started
on his journey. Without intermption, he was conducted in
perfect safety frora one reUgious famUy to another, until he
arrived at Three Rivers. Here the guide became alarmed
in consequence of sorae ramours as to the arrival of Arnold
at the Chaudiere, and that he had despatched messengers to
Montgomery to announce to him the fact. Under strong ap
prehensions, the guide refused to proceed any farther, and
recomraended to Burr to remain a few days until these ra-
/nours subsided. To this he was compelled to accede ; and,
for greater security, he was secreted three days in a con
vent at that place. At the expiration of this period he again
set off, and reached Montgomery without further detention
or accident.
On his arrival at headquarters, he explained to the gen
eral the character of the re-enforcement he was about to re
ceive ; the probable number of effective men, and the time
at which their arrival might be anticipated. General Mont
gomery was so weU pleased with the detaUs which had been
\ given him, and the mamier in which young Burr had effected

Aged 19.] MEMOIRS OP aaron burr. 69
his journey after leaving Arnold, that he invited him (Burr)
to reside at headquarters, assuring him that he shoidd re
ceive an appointment as one of his aids. At this time Mont
gomery was a brigadier, and not entitled to aids, only in vir
tue of his being commander-in-chief of the army. Previous
to his death, however, he was appointed a major-general, but
the information did not reach him.
As soon as Burr had joined the fafflUy of the general, he
entered upon the duties of an aid ; but no formal annuncia
tion was made until the army arrived before Quebec, when
his appointment was announced in general orders. Arnold
arrived at Point Levi, opposite to Quebec, on the 9th of No
vember, 1775. He paraded for some days on the heights
near the to-wn, and sent two flags to demand a surrender,
but both were fired upon as rebels with whom no commu
nication was to be held. The true reason, however, was,
that Colonel M'Clean, the British commandant, a vigUant
and experienced officer, knowing the weakness of his own
garrison, deemed it impolitic, if not unsafe, to receive a flag
from Arnold.
The first plan for the attack upon the British works was
essentially different from that which was subsequently car
ried into execution. Various reasons have been assigned
for this change. Judge Marshall says, " that while the geu
eral (Montgomery) was making the necessary preparations
for the assault, the garrison received intelUgence of his inten
tion from a deserter. This circumstance induced him to
change the plan of his attack, which had been originally to
attempt both the upp^r '^nd lower towns at the same time.
The plan now resolve3^on was to divide the army into four
parts ; and while two of them, consisting of Canadians under
Major Livingston, and a small party under Major Brown,
were to distract the attention of the garrison by making two
feints against the upper town of St. Johns and Cape Dia
mond, the other two, led, the one by Montgomery in person,

70 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 19.
and the other by Arnold, were to make real attacks on op
posite sides of the lower town."*
Colonel Burr says, that a change of the plan of attack
was produced, in a great measure, through the advice and
influence of Mr. Antill, a resident in Canada, who had joined
the army ; and Mr. Price, a Montreal merchant of property
and respectability, who had also come out and united his
destiny with the cause of the colonies. Mr. Price, in par
ticular, was strongly impressed with the opinion, that if the
American troops could obtain possession of the lower town,
the merchants and other wealthy inhabitants would have
sufficient influence with the British commander-in-chief to
induce him to surrender rather than jeopard the destmction
of aU their property. It was, as Colonel Burr thought, a
most fatal delusion. But it is believed that the opinion was
honestly entertained.
The first plan of the attack was agreed upon in a coun
cil, at which young Burr and his friend, Matthias Ogden,
were present. The arrangement was to pass over the high
est walls at Cape Diaraond. Here there was a bastion.
This was at a distance of about half a raile from any suc
cour ; but being considered, in some measure, impregnable,
the least resistance might be anticipated in that quarter.
Subsequent events tended to prove the soundness of this
opinion. In pursuance of the second plan. Major Living
ston, with a detachment under his comraand, made a feint
upon Cape Diaraond ; but, for about half an hour, with all
the noise and alarm that he and his men could create, he
was unable to attract the slightest notice from the enemy,
so completely unprepared were they at this point.
f While the first was the favourite plan of attack, Burr re-
/ quested General Montgomery to give him the command of
I a small forlorn hope, which request was granted, and forty
Vmen aUotted to him. Ladders were prepared, and the.se
* Marshall's Life of Washington, vol. i.,p. 329.

Aged 19.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 71
men kept in constant driU, untU they could ascend them
(standing almost perpendicular), with their muskets and ac
coutrements, with nearly the same facUity that they could
mount an ordinary staircase. In the success of this plan
of attack Burr had entire confidence ; but, when it was
changed, he entertained strong apprehensions of the result.
He was in the habit, every night, of visiting and reconnoi
tring the ground about Cape Diamond, until he became
perfectly familiarized with every inch adjacent to, or in the
vicinity of, the intended point of assault.
When the attack was about to be commenced, Captain
Burr, and other officers near General Montgomery, endeav
oured to dissuade him from leading in the advance; re
marking that, as commander-in-chief, it was not his place.
But all argument was ineffectual and unavailing. The
attack was made on the moming of the 31st of December,
1775, before daylight, in the midst of a violent snow-storm.
The New- York troops were commanded by General Mont
gomery, who advanced along the St. Lawrence, by the way
of Aunce de Mere, under Cape Diamond. The first bar
rier to be surmounted was at the Pot Ash. In front of it
was a block-house and picket, in charge of some Cana
dians, who, after making a single fire, fled in confusion. On
advancing to force the barrier, an accidental discharge of a
piece of artillery frora the British battery, when the Amer
ican front was within forty paces of it, killed General
Montgomery, Captain McPherson, one of his aids. Captain
Cheeseman, and every other person in front, except Cap
tain Burr and a French guide. General Montgomery was
within a few feet of Captain Burr ; and Colonel TmrabuU,
in a superb painting recently executed by hira, descriptive
of the assault upon Quebec, has drawn the general fall
ing in the arms of his surviving aid-de-camp. Lieuten
ant Colonel Campbell, being the senior officer on the
ground, assumed the command, and ordered a retreat.

72 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 19.

CHAPTER VI.
To evince the high sense entertained by his country for
the services of General Montgomery, Congress directed a
monument to be erected, with an inscription sacred to his
memory. They " Resolved, That, to express the venera
tion of the United Colonies for their late general, Richard
Montgomery, and the deep sense they entertained of the
many signed and iraportant services of that gaUant officer,
who, after a series of successes, amid the most discouraging
difficulties, fell, at length, in a gallant attack upon Quebe^,
the capital of. Canada, and to transmit to fiiture ages, as
examples traly worthy of imitation, his patriotism, conduct,
boldness of enterprise, insuperable perseverance, and con
tempt of danger and death, a monument be procured from
Paris, or other part of France, with an inscription sacred to
his memory, and expressive of his amiable character and
heroic achievements ; and that the continental treasurer be
directed to advance a sum, not exceeding three hundred
pounds sterling, to Dr. Benjamin Franklin, who is desired
to see this resolution properly executed, for defraying the
expenses thereof."
This resolve was carried into execution at Paris by that
ingenious artist, M. Caffieres, sculptor to Louis XVL, king
of France, under the direction of Dr. Benjamin Franklin.
The monument is of white marble, of the most beautiful
simplicity and inexpressible elegance, with emblematical
devices, and the following tnUy classical inscription, worthy
of the modest but great mind of Franldin.

Aged 19.] MEMOIRS OP aaron burr. 73
to the glory OF
RICHARD MONTGOMERY,
MAJOR-GENERAL OF THE ARMIES OF THE
UNITED STATES OP AMERICA,
SLAIN AT THE SIEGE OF QUEBEC,
THE THIRTY-FIRST OF DECEMBER, 1775,
AGED 38 YEARS.
This monument was erected in front of St. Paul's Church,
in the city of New-York, in the spring of 1789.
General Amold temporarily became commander-in-chief
of the American army near Quebec, and was accordingly
removed to headquarters. Young Burr was now called
upon to perform the duties of brigade major. Arnold's ''
plan was, by a close blockade, to starve out the enemy;
but, from the weakness of his force, he soon discovered that
this was impracticable ; and he knew that, on the open
ing of the spring, he could not retain his present position,
but must retreat. He therefore resolved to send in a flag
of truce, and demand a surrender. He inforraed Captain
Burr that he was about to send him with a communication
to General Carlton, the British commander. Captain Burr^
required that he should be made acquainted with its con
tents. Arnold objected; whereupon Burr remarked that,
if the general wished it, he would resign ; but that he could
not consent to be the bearer of the coraraunication without
possessing a knowledge of its character. At length, it was
exhibited to him. It was demanding a surrender of the
fortress, but in terms that Captain Burr considered unbe
coming an Amgrican officer, and he so stated to the gen
eral; adding, that the bearer of such a message, if he
were permitted to deliver it, would be treated by the British
with contumely and contempt ; and therefore declined thef
mission. Another officer was selected, and met the fate
Burr anticipated. Shortly after (April 1st, 1776), General
Vol. I.— K 4

74 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 19.
Wooster arrived from Montreal and took the command.
He was succeeded by General Thomas about the 1st of
May ; and, on the 5th of May, it was determined in council
to raise the blockade of Quebec, and that the sick and
wounded should be immediately reraoved, with the artiUery
and stores, by boats, to Three Rivers, preparatory to a
..retreat. Burr's perseverance and zeal during the march through
the wilderness with Arnold, his subsequent boldness in
joining Montgomery, and his intrepidity at the assault on
Quebec, had acquired for him great reputation in the army,
and had drawn towards him the attention of some of the
most distinguished whigs in the United Provinces. From
every quarter he received highly complimentary letters.
From a few of them extracts are made. Colonel AntiU, a
resident of Montreal, who had joined the American army,
thus addresses him, five days after the fall of Montgomery : —
" La Chine, Sth January, 1770.
"Dear Burr,
" I have desired Mr. Price to deliver you my pistols,
which you will keep until I see you. They are relics
from my father's family, and therefore I cannot give them
to you. The general (Wooster) has thought proper to
send me to the Congress, where I shall have an opportunity
of speaking of you as you deserve.
" Yours, " Edward Antill."
On the 4th of January, General Wooster writes from
Montreal to General Arnold : —
" Give my love to Burr, and desire him to remain with
Colonel Clinton* for the present. Not only him, but all
those brave officers who have so nobly distinguished them-
» James Clinton, afterwards general, brother of Govemor George Clinton.

Aged 19.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 75
selves, I shaU ever remember with gratitude and the high
est degree of approbation, and shall not faU to represent
them accordingly. " David Wooster."
From a college-chum of great merit, he received a letter,
dated " Philadelphia, January 24th, 1776.
"Dear Burr,
" I am informed a gentleman is just setting off for Que
bec, and snatch the opportunity of at once condoling witb
you for the loss of your brave general, and congratulating
you on the credit you have gained in that action. 'Tis said
you behaved well — you behaved gallantly. I never doubted
but you would distinguish yourself, and your praise is now
in every man's mouth. It has been my theme of late. I
will not say I was perfectly disinterested in the encomiums
I bestowed. You were a son of Nassau Hall, and reflected
honour on the place of my education. You were my class
mate and friend, and reflected honour on me. I make no
doubt but your promotion will be taken care of. The gen
tlemen of the Congress speak highly of you.
" Your affectionate, "William Bradford, Jun."
Judge Tappan Reeve writes — " stockbridge, January 27th, 1776.
"Dear Burr,
"Amid the lamentations of a country for the loss of a
brave, enterprising general, your escape from such imminent
danger, to which you have been exposed, has afforded us
the greatest satisfaction. The news of the unfortunate
attack upon Quebec arrived among us on the 13th of this
raonth. I concealed it from your sister until the 18th,
when she found it out ; but, in less than half an hour, I re
ceived letters from Albany, acquainting me that you were in

76 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 19.
safety, and had gained gi-eat honour by your intrepid con
duct. It gave us a kind of happiness that I should be very
loath ever again to enjoy ; for it never can be the case untU
you have again been exposed to the Uke danger, and have
again escaped it, which I hope may never happen. To
know that you were in safety gave great pleasure. It was
heightened by hearing that your conduct was brave. _ Could
you have been crowned with success, it would have been
coraplete. " It was happy for us that we did not know that you were
an aid-de-carap, until we heard of your welfare ; for we
heard that Montgomery and his aid-de-camps were kUled,
without knowing who his aid-de-camps were.
" Your sister enjoys a middling state of health. She has
many anxious hours upon your account ; but she tells me
that, as she believes you raay serve your country in the
business in which you are now employed, she is contented
that you should remain in the army. It must be an exalted
public spirit that could produce such an effect upon a sister
as affectionate as yours. " Adieu.
"T. Reeve."
His friend, Jonathan Bellamy, writes, "Norwich, March 3d, 1776.
" My VERY DEAR FrIEND,
" Be you yet alive ? I have been infinitely distressed for
you ; but I hope it is now as safe with you as glorious.
Doctor Jim CogsweU has left the army. A few days ago ]
received a letter from hira. ' I doubt not,' he says, ' you
have most sensible pleasure in the applauses bestowed on
our friend Burr; when I hear of his gaUant behaviour, I
feel exquisite delight.'
" Curse on this vUe distance between us. I am restless
to teU you every thing ; but uncertainty whether you would
ever hear it bids me be sUent, till, in some future happy

Aged 19.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 77
meeting, I may hold you to my bosom, and impart to you
every emotion of my heart. " Yours sincerely, "Jona. Bellamy."
Immediately after the repulse of the Americans at Que
bec, his friend Ogden returned to New- Jersey, but spent
much of his time with the army in the city of New- York.
He writes to Burr, dated New- York, 20th March, 1776.
Some weeks have elapsed since I saw Walker and Price.
To-day I met with Hopkins at this place. My first inquiry
was for letters from you. I mean not to upbraid you. This
is the third time of my writing since I left you. I shall con
tinue it, with the hope of giving you some small satisfaction.
Miss Dayton is well, and will soon be mine. Barber is ap
pointed major in the third Jersey battalion, of which Dayton
is colonel, and Walton White lieutenant-colonel. Hancock
was particular in his inquiry after you, and was disap
pointed in not receiving a line from you. I was kindly re
ceived on my arrival at PhUadelphia. The Congress have
since appointed me lieutenant-colonel in the first Jersey bat
talion, in the room of Lieutenant-colonel Winds, who has
the regiment in the stead of Lord Stirling, who is advanced
to a brigadier-general.
Colonel Allen, who hands you this, is much of a gentle
man, and worthy your attention. Melcher has hobbled him
self. Inquire of Colonel Allen. General Thompson com
mands. To-morrow my appointment will be announced in
general orders, whereupon I shall join my regiment, but shall
obtain leave of absence for a week or two. Elizabethtown
swarms with girls, among which is Miss Noel. I have not
seen Miss Ricketts.
When I was in PhUadelphia, Colonel Reed expressed a de
sire of serving me. He said there was a vacancy in General

78 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
Washington's family, and doubted not his reconunendation
would procure it for me. I declined it, hoping to ^et a more
active office, but desired he would procure it for you. If
any thing offers at Quebec, accept it, as it wUl not hinder
your appointment here. Washington is expected in New-
York, when I shaU have a better chance of bringing it
about. The pay and rank are equal to a full major. I shaU
write you by Price. Miss Dayton is particular in her m-
quiries after you. Yours sincerely.
Matt. Ogden.
In the spring of 1776, the army moved from Montreal to
the raouth of the Sorel. Major Burr yet remained with it.
While at Montreal, he became disgusted with General Ar- t.
nold, on account of his meanness and other bad qualities. On
-the march through the wilderness, he was far from being
satisfied with the general. Burr thought he provided too
carefully for himself ; and that he did not sufficiently share
the fatigues and privations of the march in common with the
troops. Immediately after arriving at the Sorel, he informed
the general of his deske to visit his friends, and to ascertedn
what was doing, as he wished more active employment.
General Arnold objected somewhat petulantly. Burr re
marked courteously, but firmly, " Sir, I have a boat in read
iness. I have employed four discharged soldiers to row
me, and I start to-morrow morning at six o'clock." He then
designated the point at which he should embark. Amold
forbade his departure, whereupon Burr reiterated his deter
mination. The next morning, at the specified hour, he repaired to his
boat, and shortly after discovered the general approaching.
" Why, Major Burr," says he, " you are not going ?" — " I
am, sir," replied the major. " But you know, sir, it is con
trary to my wish and against ray orders." — " I know, sir, that
you have the power of stopping me, but nothing short of

Aged 20.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 79
force shaU do it." The general then changed his tone and
manner, and endeavoured to dissuade ; but, after a few min
utes' conversation, Burr wished him great success, then em
barked, and took his departure without interruption.
On the Sorel an incident occurred which gave some alarm
to the voyagers. Burr had taken into his boat, as a kind of
companion, a young merchant. On the borders of the river
they suddenly discovered a large brick house, with wings,
having loopholes to fire through, and in view, at the door,
stood an Indian warrior, in full costume. The oarsmen were
for attempting to retreat. Burr said it was too late, as they
were within the reach of the Indians' rifles. The passen
ger was about to stop the men from rowing, when Burr
threatened to shoot him if he interfered. The inquiry was
then made — " What are we to do ?" The major repUed,
" Row for the shore and land ; I will go up to the house, and
we shaU soon learn what they are." By this tirae several
other Indians had made their appearance. On reaching the
shore. Burr took his sword and proceeded to meet the red
men. An explanation ensued, and it was ascertained that
they were friendly. The stores were landed from the boat,
and a merrimaking followed.
Major Burr continued his route to Albany. On his arri
val, and while there, he was notified verbally that it would
be agreeable to the commander-in-chief (General Washing
ton) that he shoiUd visit New-York. He forthwith pro
ceeded down the river, and arrived in the city about the
20th of May, 1776. He immediately reported himself to
the commander-in-chief, who invited him to join his famUy
at headquarters until he received a satisfactory appointraent.
The quarters of General Washington were at that time in
the house subsequently owned by Colonel Burr, and known
as Richmond HiU. This invitation was accepted, and Ma
jor Burr occasionally rode out with the general, but very
soon became restless and dissatisfied. He wrote to John
Hancock, then president of Congress, and who had been an

80 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
intimate friend of his father, that he was disgusted, and in
cUned to retire from the service. Govemor Hancock ob
jected, and asked him whether he would accept the appoint
ment of aid-de-camp to Major-general Putnam, then in com
mand in the city of New-York. Burr consented, and re
moved from the headquarters of the commander-in-chief to
those of Major-general Putnam. About this period Burr
received a letter from his friend, now Lieutenant-colonel M.
Ogden, who had proceeded to the north with his regiment.
He writes. Fort George, Sth June, 1776.
Dear Burr,
I this evening experienced the greatest disappointment 1
have met with since my memory. I yesterday saw Mr.s
Price ; he informed me that you were on your way, in
company with the commissioners, who, I was this day in
formed, were coming by the way of Skeenesborough. I
altered my course, and went that way, till I met them on
the road. They informed rae you were coming by Lake
George. I then turned about, very much afraid yon would
pass me before I came into the lake road. But what neces
sity for enumerating all these circumstances ? I have missed
you. D — n the luck. I never, so much desired, nor had
occasion so much for an interview. I have not received a
single line from you since I left Canada. Perhaps you
have not written, or perhaps they, have miscarried. If
they have raiscarried, withered be ihp hand that held them
back. Tell me you omitted through carelessness, neglect,
hurry of business, or any thing, rather than want of friend
ship. General 'Washington desired me to inform you that he
will provide for you, and that he expects you will come tu
him immediately, and stay in his family. I should have
acquainted you of this by letter, had I not expected to have
seen you. You wUl now want your horse. ' I have sold

Aged 20.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 81
him, and spent the money, and expect I shall not be able to
refund it untU my retum. I am, if I ever was,
Yours sincerely, Matthias Ogden.
Before the preceding letter was received by Major Burr,
he felt piqued at what he supposed the coldness and neglect
of his friend Ogden, and, under the influence of such feel
ings, wrote the following : — New- York, 18th June, 1776.
Dear Ogden,
A correspondence, which I flattered myself in former
fJtimes was mutually agreeable, has of late somehow
strangely found an end. You may reraember, when you
left Canada, I engaged to answer your first letter imme
diately, and to continue writing from that time, by every
opportunity, as usual. I concluded your letters must have
miscarried, and wrote you a line by Mr. Avery. I had no
direct intelligence from you, till a verbal message by Mr.
Duggan, the beginning of May. A few days after, I re
ceived a letter from Colonel Ogden by Colonel Allen. I
should have answered it, but had deterrained to visit my na
tive colony, and expected, by personal interview, to answer
purposes which I scarce hoped the cold medium of ink and
paper could effect.
That I unfortunately missed you on my way hither, I
need not relate. At Albany I first heard you had passed
me. I was upon the point of following you ; but the char
acter of troublesome fool struck me in so disagreeable a
light, that, in spite of myself, I continued my journey.
There is in man a certain love of novelty ; a fondness of
variety (useful, indeed, within proper limits), which influences
more or less in almost every act of life. New views, new-
laws, new friends, have each their charm. Truly great
Vol. I.— L 4*

82 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
must be the soul, and firm almost beyond the weakness of
humanity, that can withstand the smiles of fortune. Suc
cess, promotion, the caresses of the great, and the flatteries
of the low, are soraetimes fatal to the noblest minds. The
volatUe become an easy prey. The fickle heart, tiptoe with
joy, as from an eminence, views with contempt its former
joys, connexions, and pursuits. A new taste contracted,
seeks companions suited to itself. But pleasures easiest
tasted, though perhaps at first of higher glee, are soonest
past, and, the more they are relied upon, leave the severer
sting behind. One cloudy day despoils the glow-worm of aU
its glitter.
Should fortune ever frown upon you. Matt. ; should those
you now call friends forsake you ; should the clouds gather
force on every side, and threaten to burst upon you, think
then upon the man who never betrayed you ; rely on the
sincerity you never found to fail ; and if my heart, my Ufe,
or my fortune can assist you, it is yours.
I go to-morrow to Elizabethtown, where I shall see the
best of woraen — your wife. Whatever letters or coramands
she raay have for you, I shall be careful to forward by the
safest hands. Your friend, Aaron Burr.
In the beginning of July, 1776, Major Burr was appoint
ed aid-de-camp to General Putnam. At this time the head
quarters of the general were in the large brick house, yet
standing, at the corner of Broadway and the Battery. Burr
continued occasionally to correspond with his friends, but
was much occupied with his mUitary duties, and those stud
ies which were calculated to render him scientificaUy mas
ter of his profession. During the short period that he re
mained in the family of General Washington, he was treat
ed with respect and attention; but soon perceived, as he
thought, an unwilUngness to afford that information, and

Aged 20.] memoirs of aaron burr. 83
those technical explanations of great historical mUitary
movements, which an inquiring and enUghtened mind, Uke
Burr's, sought with avidity and perseverance. He therefore \
became apprehensive, if he remained with the commander-
in-chief, that, instead of becoming a scientific soldier, he
should dwindle down into a practical clerk — a species of i
drudgery to which his pecuniary circumstances did not ren
der it necessary for him to submit, and for which neither
his habits, his education, nor his teraperaraent in any degree
qualified him. He therefore deterrained promptly on a
change, and was willing to enter the family of Major-general
Putnam, because he would there enjoy the opportunities for
study, and the duties which he would be required to per
form would be strictly military. There is no doubt theN
short residence of Major Burr with General Washington
laid the foundation for those prejudices which, at a future
day, ripened into hostUe feelings on both sides.
Judge Paterson' thus writes him ¦.—-
New-Brunswick, July 22d, l'r78.
My dear Burr,
I did myself the pleasure of writing you by ray brother,
who is in General Sullivan's brigade, and who was in expec
tation of seeing you, as he was destined for the Canada de
partment. Indeed, from the friendship which subsisted be
tween us, I was in expectation of hearing frequently from
you, and, to tell the truth, was not a little mortified that I
was passed over in silence. Why, Burr, all this negligence ?
I dare not caU it forgetfulness, for I cannot bear the thought
of giving up my place in your esteem. I rejoice at your
return, and congratulate you on your promotion. I was at
tending the convention at Biu'lington when you passed on
to PhUadelphia, and was fuU of the pleasing hope of having
an interview with you. The Delaware, indeed, ran between
us — a mighty obstacle, to be sure ! I inquired when you
designed to return, that I might plant myself at Bristol, and

84 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
intercept you on your way. The inquiry was of no avail.
I have at times been violently tempted to write you a rail
ing letter, and for that purpose have more than once taken
up the pen. But I can hardly teU how, on such occasions,
the Genius of Friendship would rise up to view, and soften
me down into aU the tenderness of affectionate sorrow —
perhaps because I counted you as lost. I find I must e'en
forgive you — but, remember, you must behave better in fu
ture. Do write me now and then. Your letters will give
me unfeigned pleasure, and, for your encouragement, I
promise to be a faithful correspondent. In the letter-way
you used to be extremely careless ; you know I am, in that
respect, of a different turn.
This will be handed you by Mr. Hugg and Mr. Leaming,.
members of our convention, whora curiosity partly, and
partly business, have impelled to New- York. As men, they
are genteel, sensible, and deserving. As politicians, they
are worthy of your regard, for they possess the genuine
spirit of whiggisra. They have no acquaintance in York.
They are desirous of seeing the fortifications, and other
things in the railitary line. Pray take thera by the hand ;
and be assured that any kindness shown thera wUl be ac
knowledged as an additional obligation conferred upon
Your affectionate
Wm. Paterson.
A. Burr replies to this letter : — New-York, July 26th, 1776.
My dear Paterson,
I this day received your kind letter. It gave me a pleas
ure I seldom experience. Can it be that you have still in
memory the vagrant Burr ? Some fatality has ever attend
ed our endeavours to raeet. Why I have not vreitten to you
I cannot tell. It has not been for want of friendship, of in
clination, or always of opportunity; but some unavoidable

Aged 20.J memoirs of aaron burr. 85
accidents prevented so long, that I began to fear a letter from
me must be ushered in by some previous introduction, some
anecdotes of the writer, which might renew your remem
brance, and authorize a freedom of this nature. But your
frank and kind epistle precludes fulsome apologies, which,
though sometimes necessary, I esteera, at best, but a drug
in letters.
I am exceedingly pleased with your friends, Messrs. Hugg
and Leaming, but was unfortunate enough to be from home
the day they came in town, and had not the pleasure of see
ing them till this afternoon. I felt myself so nearly inter
ested in the Welfare of the province whose constitution you
are now framing, that I did not urge their stay with the
warmth my inclination prompted. If any other of our Jer
sey friends should be coming this way, I should be happy
in showing them every civility in my power.
As to promises of writing, I shall make you none, my
dear Bill, till those already on hand, and of long standing,
are discharged. I am no epistolary politician or news
monger; and as to sentiments, a variety of novelties and
follies has entirely dissipated them. This, however, is
only a new apology for an old misfortune. But why this
to you, who know me better than I know myself? This
epistolary chat, though agreeable, is by no means satisfac
tory. The sincerity of my long-smothered affections is not
to be thus expressed. I raust contrive to shake you by the
hand. Perhaps I may, ere long, be sent to Elizabethtown
or Amboy on business, and wiU, undoubtedly, take Bruns
wick in my way. I have, or had once, an agreeable femt^l^
acquaintance with Miss S. D., now Mrs. S., and with Miss
S. was on tolerable terms of intimacy. Could I but recon
noitre a while, and find how the land lay, I might, perhaps,
be able to graduate my corapliraents with sorae propriety,
from cold respects to affectionate regards. I think I must
leave you discretionary orders on this head, begging you to

86 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
make use of aU the policy of war. There is no knowing of
what importance it may be to Your affectionate A. Burr.

CHAPTER VII.
From the year 1780 until the year 1795, Mrs. Margaret
Coghlan made no inconsiderable noise in the court and
fashionable circles of Great Britain and France. She was
the theme of conversation among the lords, and the dukes,
and the M. P.'s. Having become the victim, in early life,
of licentious, dissolute, and extravagant conduct, alternately
she was revelling in wealth, and then sunken in poverty.
At length, in 1793, she published her own memoirs. Mrs.
Coghlan was the daughter of Major Moncrieffe, of the
British array. He was Lord Comwallis's brigade major.
Her father had three wives. She was a daughter of the
first wife. His second wife was Miss L*********^ of Ne-w-
York, and his third wife Miss J**, of New-York. Mrs.
Coghlan is introduced here, because her early history is in
timately connected with the subject of these memoirs.
In July, 1776, she resided in Elizabethtown, New- Jersey.
Her father was with Lord Percy on Staten Island. In her
memoirs, speaking of herself, she says : — " Thus destitute of
ifjSS^, I wrote to General Putnam, who instantly answered
my letter by a very kind invitation to his house, assuring
me that he respected my father, and was only his enemy in
the field of battle ; but that, in private Ufe, he himself, or any
part of his family, might always command his services. On
the next day he sent Colonel Webb, one of his aid-de-camps,
to conduct me to New-York. When I arrived in the Broad
way (a street so called), where General Putnam resided, I

Aged 20.] memoirs of aaron burr. 87
was received with great tenderness, both by Mrs. Putnam
and her daughters, and on the following day I was intro
duced by them to General and Mrs. Washington, who Uke
wise made it their study to show me every mark of regard;
but I seldom was allowed to be alone, although soraetiraes,
mdeed, I found an opportunity to escape to the gallery on
the top of the house, where ray chief delight was to view,
with a telescope, our fleet and array at Staten Island. My
arausements were few ; the good Mrs. Putnam employed
me and her daughters constantly to spin flax for shirts for
the American soldiers ; indolence, in America, being totally
discouraged ; and I likewise worked some for General Put
nam, who, though not an accomplished muscadin, like our
dilletantis of St. Jaraes's-street, was certainly one of the
best characters in the world ; his heart being composed of
those noble raaterials which equally coramand respect and
admiration. ******
" Not long after this circumstance, a flag of truce arrived
from Staten Island, with letters frora Major Moncrieffe, de
manding me ; for he now considered me as a prisoner. Gen
eral Washington would not acquiesce in this demand, saying
that I should reraain a hostage for my father's good beha
viour. I must here observe, that when General Washington
refused to deliver rae up, the noble-minded Putnam, as if it
were by instinct, laid his hand on his sword, and with a vio
lent oath swore that my father's request should be granted.
The commander-in-chief, whose influence govemed Con
gress, soon prevailed on them to consider me ap a person
whose situation required their strict attention; and that I
might not escape they ordered me to Kingsbridge, where, in
justice I must say, that I was treated with the utmost ten
derness. General Mifflin there commanded. His lady was
a most accomplished, beautiful woman ; a Quaker," ,&c.
Mrs. Coghlan then bursts forth in expressions of rapture
for a young American officer, with whom she had become
enamoured. She does not name him ; but that officer was

88 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
Major Burr. " May these pages" (she says) " one day meet
the eye of him who subdued my virgin heart. ***** To
him I plighted my virgin vow. ****** With this conquer
or of my soul, how happy should I now have been ! What
storms and tempests should I have avoided" (at least I am
pleased to think so) " if I had been aUowed to foUow the bent
of my inclinations. Ten thousand times happier should I
have been with him in the wildest desert of our native coun
try, the woods affording us our only shelter, and their fruits
our only repast, than under the canopy of costly state, with
all the refinements of courts, with the royal warrior" (the
Duke of York) " who would fain have proved himself the
conqueror of France. My conqueror was engaged in an-
- other cause ; he was ambitious to obtain other laurels. He
fought to liberate, not to enslave nations. He was a colo
nel in the Araerican army, and high in the estimation of his
country. His victories were never accompanied with one
gloomy, relenting thought. They shone as bright as the
cause which achieved them."
The letter from General Putnam of which Mrs. Coghlan
speaks is found among the papers of Colonel Burr, and is
in the following words : — New- York, July 26th, 1776.
I should have answered your letter sooner, but had it not
in my power to write you any thing satisfactory.
The omission of my title, in Major Moncrieffe's letter, is
a matter I regard not in the least ; nor does it in any way
infiuence my conduct in this affair, as you seem to iraagine.
Any political difference alters him not to me in a private
capacity. As an officer, he is my enemy, and obliged to act
as such, be his private sentiments what they will. As a
man, I owe him no enraity ; but, far from it, wiU, with pleas
ure, do any kind office in my power for him or any of his
connexions. I have, agreeably to your desire, waited on his exceUency

Aged 20.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 89
to endeavour to obtain permission for you to go to Staten
Island. He informs me that Lieutenant-colonel Patterson,
who came with the last flag, said he was empowered to
offer the exchange of — '¦  for Govemor Skeene. As
the Congress have reserved to themselves the right of ex
changing prisoners, the general has sent to know their pleas
ure, and doubts not they will give their consent. I am de
sired to inform you, that if this exchange is made, you wiUi^
have liberty to pass out with Governor Skeene ; but that no
flag will be sent solely for that purpose.
Major WUliam Livingston was lately here, and informed
me that you had an inclination to live in this city, and that
all the ladies of your acquaintance having left town, and
Mrs. Putnam and two daughters being here, proposed your
staying with them. If agreeable to you, be assured, miss,^
you shall be sincerely welcome. You wUl here, I think,
be in a more probable way of accomplishing the end you
wish— that of seeing your father, and may depend upon
every civility from, Miss,
Your obedient servant, Israel Putnam.
This letter is in the handwriting of Major Burr, and un
doubtedly was prepared by him for the signature of the
general. Miss Moncrieffe was, at tlus time, in her four
teenth year. She had travelled, and, for one of her age, had
mingled much in the world. She was accomplished, and
was considered handsome. Major Burr was attracted by
her sprightliness and vivacity, and she, according to her
own confessions, penned nearly twenty years afterward, had
not only become violently in love with, but had acknowl
edged the fact to him. Whether the foundation of her
future misfortunes was now laid, it is not necessary to
inquire. Her indiscretion was evident, while Major Burr's
propensity for intrigue was already weU known.
Vol. I.— M

90 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
f Burr prceived immediately that she was an extraordi
nary young woman. Eccentric and volatUe, but endowed
with talents, natural as weU as acquired, of a pecuUar char-
llacter. Residing in the famUy of General Putnara with her,
and enjoying the opportunity of a close and intimate inter
course, at all times and on all occasions, he was enabled to
judge of her qualifications, and came to the conclusion, not
withstanding her youth, that she was well calculated for a
spy, and thought it not improbable that she might be em
ployed in that capacity by the British. Major Burr sug
gested his suspicions to General Putnam, and recommended
that she be conveyed to her friends as soon as might be
convenient. She was, in consequence, soon after removed
to Kingsbridge, where General Mifflin commanded. This
change of situation, in the work which she has published, is
ascribed to General Washington, but it originated with
' Major Burr.
After a short residence at Kingsbridge, leave was granted
for her departure to Staten Island. She accordingly set off
in a continental barge, under the escort of an American offi
cer, who was ordered to accompany her to the British head
quarters. As the boat approached the English fleet, she was
met by another, having on board a British officer, and was
notified that she could proceed no fiirther, but that the king's
officer would take charge of the young lady, and convey her
in safety to her father, ^ho was six or eight miles in the
country with Lo^^eifey. She says, in her memoirs, " I
then entered the Briti^, barge, and bidding an eternal fare
well to my dear American friends, turned my hack on lib
erty." Miss Moncrieffe, before she had reached her fourteenth
year, was probably the victim of seduction. The language
of her memoirs, when taken in connexion with her deport-
jment soon after her marriage, leaves but little room for doubt.
Major Burr, while yet at college, had acquired a reputation
for gallantry, On this point he was excessively vain, and

Aged 20.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 91
regardless of aU those ties which ought to control il^ hoAour-
able mind. In his intercourse with females he was an Un- ^
principled flatterer, ever prepared to take advantage of their J
weakness, their credulity, or their confidence. She thaM
confided in him was lost. In referring to this subject, m'4
terms of condemnation would be too strong to apply to Col
onel Burr. ,
It is truly surprising how any individual could have bq-:^
come so eminent as a soldier, as a statesraan, and as a prdr ,
fessional man, who devoted so much time to the other sejf: )
a's was devoted by Colonel Burr. For more than half ai,
century of his life, they seemed to absorb his whol^,,
\ thoughts. His intrigues were without number. His coii-
duct raost licentious. The sacred bonds of friendship were,*
unhesitatingly violated when they operated as barriers to the ¦
indulgence of his passions. For a long period of tirae he
seeraed to be gathering, and carefully preserving, every lindi,
written to him by any female, whether with or without rep
utation ; and, when obtained, they were cast into one com
mon receptacle, — the profligate and corrupt, by the side of
the thoughtless and betrayed victim. All were held as
trophies of victory, — all esteemed alike valuable. ^How
shocking to the man of sensibility ! How mortifying and
heart-sickening to the intellectual, the artless, the fallen fair !
Among these manuscripts were many the production of
highly cultivated minds. They were calculated to excite
the syrapathy of the brother — the parent — the husband.
They were, indeed, testimonials of the weakness of the
weaker sex, even where genius and learning would seem to
be towering above the arts of the seducer. Why they were
thus carefully preserved, is left to conjecture. Can it be
true that Moore is correct, when, in his life of Lord Byron,
he says, " The allusions which he (Byron) makes to in
stances of successful passion in his career, were not without
their influence on the fancies of that sex, whose weakness it
is to be most easily won by those who coml^ recommended

MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
Jbw tbeJflBftest number of triumphs over others ?" Some of
Mese productions had been penned more than sixty years.
They were aU committed to the flames, however, iraraedi
Ltely after the decease of Colonel Burr. Of them, it is be
lieved, " not a wreck remains."
/ E The faithful biographer could not pass over in sUence this
I strong and revolting trait in the character of Colonel Burr. It
wiU not again be referred to. From details, the moralist and
the good man must shrink with disgust and abhorrence. In
is particular, Burr appears to have been unfeeling and heart
less. And yet, by a fascinating power almost peculiar td^
himself, he so managed as to retain the affection, in some
instances, the devotion, of his deluded victims. In every
¦ other respect he was kind and charitable. No man would
go farther to alleviate the sufferings of another. No man
Was more benevolent. No man would make greater sacri
fices to promote the interest or the happiness of a friend.
How strange, how inconsistent, how conflicting are these
allusions ! They are nevertheless strictly true. — ""
Many of the letters to and from Colonel Burr contain
hints and opinions as to public men and measures. Thus
far, they are links in the chain of history, in relation to the
times when they were written. They serve, also, to iUusr
trate the character and the principles of the writers them
selves. With these views they are occasionaUy selected.
Theodore Sedgwick is a name recorded in the annals of
our country with distinction. He -writes to Burr : —
Sheffield, 7th August, 1776.
My dear Burr,
If you reraember, some months since, you and I mutually
engaged to correspond by letter. I told you then that you
were not to expect any thing either entertaining, or in any
degree worth the trouble of perusing. What can a reason
able being expect from an inhabitant of such an obscure,
remote, and dead place as Sheffield, to amuse, instruct, or

Aged 20.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr.

93

even to merit the attention of a young, gay, enterprising,
martial genius ? I know you will expect nothing, and I
dare pledge my honour, therefore, that you will not, either
now or in future, in this respect, be disappointed.
You recoUect, perhaps, that when I had the pleasure
to see you here, I informed you of a design to visit New-
York and the southward. Soon after ray business calle<|
me to Boston, and, on my retum, I was obliged to go with
the mUitia to PeekskiU ; from there I should have visited the|
city and my friends, had not some foolish accidents prevent-!
ed. I now think, as soon as I can leave home, of raaking a '
tour ; but this, like other futurities, is wholly uncertain-
The insignificant figure I make, in my own opinion, in
this day of political and martial exertions, is an humbling '
consideration. To be stoically indifferent to the great
events that are now unfolding, is altogether inconsistent^
not only with my inclination, but even with my natural
constitution ; and to pursue a line of conduct which indi
cates such a disposition (I mean my continuance at home),
is a mystery for which I will endeavour to account. Re
member, I do not intend to libel the colony to which I
belong. Amid the confusion which was at once the cause and
consequence of a dissolution of government, men's minds
as well as actions became regardless of all legal restraint.
All power reverted into the hands of the people, who were
determined that every one should be convinced that the
people were the fountain of all honour. The first thing
they did was to withdraw all confidence from every one
who had ever any connexion with government. Law
yers were, almost universally, represented as the pests of
society. All persons who would pay court to these ex
travagant and unreasonable prejudices becarae their idols.
Abilities were represented as dangerous, and leaming as a
crime, or rather, the certain forerunner of all political ex
travagances. They really demonstrated that they were

94 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
possessed of creating power ; for, hy the word of their
power, they created great men aut of nothing ; but I can
not say that all was very well.
Observing these violent symptoms, I could not pursue
that which was the only road to preferment ; and I have
never had an offer to go into the army, except the one I
accepted ; while I have seen, in more than one instance,
men honoured with the command of a regiment for heading
mobs. Well : with this, I believe, I have troubled you long
enough. Pray, say you, what is it to me why you have
not been in the army ? Why, nothing, my dear friend ; but
it is something to me. You know, my dear Burr, I love
you, or I should not submit such nonsense to your perusal.
If Mr. Swift still lives, give hira my best compliments.
Pamela desires me to tell you she loves you. Answer this
letter,"and thereby oblige Your sincere friend,
Theodore Sedgwick.
FROM colonel M. OGDEN.
Ticonderoga, July 26th, 1776.
Dear Burr,
I have been waiting with the greatest impatience to
know what is doing in York and Jersey. There are twenty
different reports, that contradict each other, relative to
Hoyve and his fleet. It has once been generaUy believed
that a French fieet had arrived at New- York, and blocked
up the British army. Independence is well relished in
this part of the world. Generalship is now dealt out to the
army JDy our worthy and well-esteemed general. Gates, who
is putting the most disordered army that ever bore the
name into a state of regularity and defence. If our friends
in Canada, comraanded by Burgoyne, will wait a few days,
-we shall give them a very proper reception.
The army are beginning to recruit fast, from the effects
of a little fresh meat, and some rum, when on fatigue.

Aged 20. MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 95
Ten days ago there were not in our regiment eighty men
fit for duty. We have now upwards of two hundred and
thUty ; and, in a few days, they will be all as rugged as
New-Jersey is firm.
Colonel Winds is sent home on a fool's errand by the
general, that he may be out of the way of doing any more
harm to the regiment. The general assures me that I shall
not be troubled with him again. I suppose, by that, he has
written to have him detained below. A short history of this
man will convince you that he ought to be nowhere but on
bis farm. He, in the first place, is a professed enemy to
subordination, and has an utter aversion to discipline. He
is positive, and prefers his own opinion to even the general's,
because he was in the service last war. He is not possess
ed of one qualification that distinguishes a gentleman, nor
has he genius or education. His whole study is to gain the
applause of the private soldiers, at the expense of every offi
cer in the regiment. He is hated by all his own officers
except two, and despised by every gentleman in the army.
We are in great want of brigadier-generals — three, at
least. I mean for the men that are now here. General Ar
nold will command the water-craft on the lake in person.
There are three brigades, commanded by the colonels. Reed,
Stark, and St. Clair. The last of these I sincerely wish
was appointed a brigadier by Congress. There is no better
man ; the other two have full enough already.
Please to forward the enclosed, with the letter to Mr.
Spencer. My best respects to Generals Putnam, Greene,
and Mifflin, and to Colonel TrambuU. Compliraents to
Webb. I wait, with the greatest impatience, some impor
tant news from New- York. Pray write particulars relative
to the conduct of the Jerseymen. Should any faU, mention
their names. I am yours sincerely,
Matt. Ogden.

96 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 20

TO T. EDWARDS. New-York, 10th of August, 1776.
Dear Uncle,
I have received your letters from Stockbridge, with my
watch, for which I thank you. Our six gaUeys which went
up the North river attacked the British ships. They beha
ved well, but were drove off with the loss of three kiUed
and twelve or thirteen wounded. A second attack is pro
posed. Vessels and chevaux-de-frises are sunk in the
North river. The channel is said to be effectually stopped.
We are endeavouring the sarae in the East river. The
British fleet have been largely re-enforced at different times.
They are now said to be upwards of two hundred sail within
the Narrows. They have drawn up seven of their heaviest
ships in a line, nearly two miles advanced of the rest.
By two Virginia gentlemen who went to England to take
the gown, who returned in a packet and landed on Staten
Island, where they tarried several days, and were perraitted
to cross to Elizabethtown on Thursday last, we have some
intelligence of the enemy. Clinton has arrived with his
shattered fleet and about 3600 men. By this it appears
that he has either faUen in with part of Dunmore's fleet, or
picked up the remainder of his own, which had been sep
arated, and were not in the action near Charlestownr Of
the Hessians only 1300 or 1400 have arrived. The re
mainder, about 9000, are daily expected. They were left
near the banks of Newfoundland. Those already here are
not much esteemed as soldiers.
The king's land-army is at present about 15 or 16,000
strong. They expect very soon to exceed 25,000. They
have taken on board all their heavy cannon from Staten Isl
and, and have called in several of their outposts. Thirty
transports have sailed under convoy of three frigates. They
are to come through the Sound, and thus invest us by the
North and East rivers. They are then to land on both sides

Aged 20.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 97
of the island, join their forces, and draw a line across,
which will hem us in and totally cut off all communication,
after which they will have their own fun.
These Virginia gentlemen lodged in a house with several
king's officers. They hold us in the utmost contempt. Talk
of forcing all pur lines without firing a gim. The bayonet
is their pride. They have forgot Bunker's HiU.
Your nephew,
A. Burr.

FROM COLONEL M. OGDEN.
Ticonderoga, August llth, 1776.
Dear Burr, •-"
I yesterday received yours of July 29th and August 2d.
The others I made mention of in the letter to Mrs. Ogden
that I sent to you vmsealed. In my last you had a very par
ticular account of the numbers, force, names, &c., of our
navy on the lake. As to our leaving Crownpoint for this
place, the field-officers knew nothing of it tiU it was conclu
ded on by the generals, Schuyler, Gates, and Amold.
General Ajmold is taking a very active part, I mean in the
command of the fleet. He will sail himself in a few days.
He says he will pay a visit to St. Johns. I wish he may be
as prudent as he is-brave. Well, now have at you for news.
Last evening the flag of truce returned, bringing a letter di
rected to George Washington, Esq., and a truly ridiculous
copy of a general order, which you will see at General
Washington's by the time you receive this. But there is
one part of it in which I think they, in some measure, ac
cuse us justly. I mean that of assassinating, as they term
it with too much truth. Brigadier-general Gordon. He was
shot by the Whitcomb I mentioned in my last, who had
been sent there as a spy. The act, though vUlanous, was
brave, and a peculiar kind of bravery, that, I believe, Whit
comb alone is possessed of. He shot Gordon near by their
advanced sentinel; and, notwithstanding a most dUigent
Vol. I.— N 5

96 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
search was made, he avoided them by mere dint of skulk
ing. I shaU have the honour to command the New-Jersey re
doubt, which I am now buUding with the regunent alone.
It is situated on the right of the whole, by the water's edge.
It is to mount two eighteen-pounders, two twelve, and four
nine-pounders. In this I expect to do honour to New- Jersey.
I yesterday received a letter from Colonel Dayton, dated the
28th of July, at the German Flats. He informs me that he
is to take the command at Fort Stanwix.
Should there be any thing to be had in New-York in the
clothing way, should be glad if you wiU lay some aside, no
matter what — either small-clothes, shirts, stockings, or any
thing of the kind. My best compliments to General Put
nam. If you wiU let Robert or Sawyer have the perasal of
this, they would learn the news of this army. Paper is so
scarce, that one letter must serve both, unless something
particular. Yours sincerely,
..:-¦ Matt. Ogden.
At this time Major-general Greene had the comraand on
Long Island, but his health was so bad that it became ne
cessary for him to resign it. The comraander-in-chief or
dered General Putnam to assume the command. Major
Burr was his aid-de-camp. The landing of the British had
been previously effected on the 22d of August, 1776, with
out opposition, near Utrecht and Gravesend, on the south
west end of the island. The American troops, less than
12,000, were encamped on the north of Brooklyn heights.
The British force, including Hessians, was more than 20,000
strong. The armies were separated by a range of hiUs, at
that time covered with wood, called the Heights of Gowan-
nus. Major Burr immediately commenced an inspection of
the troops, and made to the general a most unfavourable re
port, both as to their means of defence and their discipline.

Aged 20.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 99
The major proposed, however, several enterprises for beating
up the quarters of the enemy. To aU which General Put
nam replied, that his orders were not to make any attack, but
to act on the defensive only.
On the 27th the action was fought. The loss of the
Americans, in killed, wounded, and prisoners, was about
1000. That of the British, less than 350. The Ameri
cans were driven within the works which they had thrown
up. Major Burr, previous to the action, had expressed to
General Putnam the opinion that a battle ought not to be
risked; and that much was to be gained by placing the
troops in a position where the navy of the enemy woiUd not
be so serviceable to them.
On the 28th, the British advanced in column to within 500
or 600 yards of the American works. General Jlobinson,
¦who commanded a portion of the enemy, represents, in his
parliamentary examination, that they approached much
nearer. The American troops were formed in line to re
ceive them ; but gave such indications of alarm, that Major
Burr rode to General Putnam, and informed him that he had
no hope the men would stand more than a single fiie before
they retreated. No attack, however, was made. Burr con
tinued to urge upon General Putnam and Mifflin (the latter
of whom came over on that day from New-York) the neces
sity of a retreat. During the night of the 28th, General
Mifflin went the rounds, and observed the forwardness pf the
enemy's batteries, and, on the morning of the 29th, pressed
upon General Washington an immediate retreat. A council
was held, and the opinion bf Mifflin unanimously adopted.
The embarcation of the troops was coraraitted to General
M'Dougall. He was at Brooklyn Ferry by eight o'clock.
In the early part of the night, the weather was very unfa
vourable ; but about eleven o'clock every thing was propi
tious. A thick fog ensued, and continued until the whole
army, 9000 in nuraber, with all the field artiUery, ordnance,
&c., were safely landed in New- York. Major Burr was at

100 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
Brooklyn. Here General M'DougaU had an opportunity of
noticing his efficiency. His reputation for talents and intre
pidity had previously reached the ears of the general. From
this night, the 29th of August, 1776, until Major Burr re
tired from the array, he possessed the entire confidence and
esteera of General M'Dougall. Subsequent events, as will
hereafter appear, tended to strengthen and confirm the cor
rectness of those prepossessions, thus formed in the hour of
peril, and in the raidst of the most appaUing dangers.
The situation of General Washington, after retreating from
Long Island, was very distressing. The defeat which the
Americans had experienced produced consternation and
alarm in the ranks of a raw, inexperienced, and undisci
plined array. In addition to other discouraging circum
stances, ^jjithin a few days after the retreat, nearly one fourth
of the troops were on the sick-list. Colonel Glover says
that the commander-in-chief divided his array, posting 1 2,000
at Kingsbridge, 6500 at Harlera, and 4500 in the city of
New-York. On Sunday, the 15th of Septeraber, 1776, General Howe,
as comraander-in-chief of the British forces, landed on Man
hattan (New-York) Island. General Washington had pre
viously made the necessary arrangements, and given orders
for the troops to evacuate the city and retire to Harlem, dis
tant about seven miles. The descent of the British created
an alarm in the American ranlts, and produced no inconsid
erable degree of confusion in the retreat. By some unac
countable mismanagement. General SiUiman's brigade was
left in New-York, and conducted by General Knox to a small
fort then in the suburbs, and kno-wn as Bunker's Hill. Major
Burr having been despatched, at his own request, with a few
dragoons, by General Putnara, to pick up the stragglers, dis
covered the error which had been committed, and galloping
up to the fort, inquired who coraraanded. General Kno3^
presented himself. Major Burr desired him to retreat im
mediately, or the whole brigade would be cut off and sacri-

Aged 20.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. Id
ficed. General Knox replied, that a retreat, thus in the face
of the enemy, was impracticable, and that he intended to de
fend the fort. Burr remarked, that it was not bomb-proof;
that it was destitute of water ; and that he could take it with
a single howitzer ; and then, addressing himself to the men,
said, that if they remained there, one half of them would be
kiUed or wounded, and the other half hung, like dogs, be
fore night ; but, if they would place themselves under his
command, he would conduct thera in safety to Harlem.
Burr's character for intrepidity and mUitary skill was al
ready so weU established, that they determined to follow
him. In the retreat they had sorae skirraishing, but met
with very little loss in effecting their union with the main
b(|dy of the array. The foUowing documents, furnished by
officers in Silliman's brigade, contain the details,.
SAMUEL ROWLAND TO COMMODORE RICHARD V. MORRIS.
Fairfield, (Conn.), 29th January, 1814.
Sir,
In answer to the inquiries relating to the evacuation of
New-York, in 1776, I can only observe, but few persons
who were present, and eyewitnesses of the event, are now
living in this part of the country. I find, however, the Rev.
Doctor Ripley, a gentleman of eminent respectability, and
Messrs. Wakeman and Jennings, respectable citizens of this
town, now living, who belonged to the brigade of the late
General Silliman, the information of which gentlemen on any
subject can be relied on, and will be no otherwise than cor
rect, however prejudice or other cause might occasion a re
luctance in disclosing the information in their power to give ;
yet duty impeUed their narrative, and the neglecting an op
portunity to give evidence of noble acts and unrewarded
worth they consider ingratitude. In preference to commu
nicating to you by way of letter concerning transactions of
so long standing as the year 1776, 1 desired the enclosed cer
tificates, which the gentleraen freely gave, in ordef to pre-

102 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
vent any misconstraction by passing through a second hand,
by which you wiU have raore correct information than pos
sibly in my power to give.
Very respectfully yours, &c.
Samuel Rowland.
Certificate of the Rev. Hezekiah Ripley.
On being inquired of by Sarauel Rowland, Esq., of Fair
field town and county, in the State of Connecticut, relative
to ray knowledge and recollection respecting the raerits of
Colonel Aaron Burr as an officer and soldier in the late rev
olutionary war between the United States and Great Brit
ain, can certify as follows : —
Hezekiah Ripley, bf said Fairfield, doth certify, that on or
about the fifteenth day of September, 1776, I was the offi
ciating chaplain of the brigade then comraanded by Gen.
Gold S. Silliman. From mismanagement of the comraand
ing officer, that brigade was unfortunately left in the city of
New- York, and at the time before raentioned. While the
brigade was in front, and myself considerably in the rear, I
was met by the late General Putnam, deceased, who then in
formed me of the landing of the enemy above us, and that I
must make my escape on the west side of the island.
Whereupon I on foot crossed the lots to the west side of
the island, unmolested excepting by the fire from the ships
of the British, which at that time lay in the North river.
How the brigade escaped, I was not an eyewitness ; but
v?ell recollect, from the inforraation I then had from General
Chandler (now deceased), then acting as a colonel in said
brigade, that Mr. Burr's exertions, bravery, and good con
duct, was the principal means of saving the whole of that
brigade from falling into the hands of the enemy, and whose
conduct was then by all considered judicious and merito
rious. But, however, I weU recollect, before I had the informa
tion alluded to from General Chandler, I had seen Mr. Burr,

Aged 20.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 103
and inquired of him how the brigade had made their escape,
who then told me the particulars, which were afterwards con
firmed by all the officers ; who were all of opinion that, had
it not been for hira, they would not have effected their re
treat and escape. *
As to my own opinion of the manageraent of the troops
on leaving New-York, I then, and still suppose, as did Gen
eral Chandler, that Colonel Burr's merits there as a young
officer ought, and did, claim much attention, and whose offi
cial duties as an aid-de-camp on that raemorable day justly
claimed the thanks of the army and his country.
Hezekiah Ripley.
Certificate from Isaac Jennings and Andrew Wakeman.
Being requested by Samuel Rowland, Esq., to give infor
mation relative to the evacuation of New- York, in the year
1776, by the American army, we, the subscribers, then act
ing, one in the capacity of a lieutenant, and the other as a pri
vate, in the brigade comraanded by the late General Silli
man, now deceased, do certify. That on the fifteenth day of
September (being on the Lord's day), the British landed on
the east side of the island, about four miles above the city.
The Araerican troops retreated the same day to Harlem
heights. By some misapprehension of the orders, or from
other causes unknown to us, our brigade was left, and was
taken by General Knox to Bunker's HiU,* a smaU fort (so
caUed) about a mUe from town. The fort was scarcely able
to hold us aU. We had but just got into the fort, when
Aaron Burr, then aid-de-camp to General Putnam, rode up
and inquired who commanded there. General Knox pre
sented himself, and Burr (then caUed Major Burr) asked the
general what he did there ? And why he did not retreat with
the army ? The general repUed, that it was impossible to
retreat, as the enemy were across the island, and that he
* Adjacent to what is now Grand-street.

104 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
meant to defend that fort. Major Burr ridiculed the idea of
defending the place, being, as he said, without provisions, or
water, or bomb-proof; and that, with one mortar, or one
howitzer, the eneray would take the place in four hours, or
in sorae very short time, and again urged General Knox to
retreat to Harlem heights ; but General Knox said it would
be madness to attempt it. A smart debate ensued, the gen
eral adhering to his opinion. Burr addressed himself to the
men, and told them that, if they reraained there, they would
befoEC night be all prisoners, and craramed into a dungeon,
or hung like dogs. He engaged to lead thera off, and ob
served that it would be better that one half should be killed
in fighting, than all be sacrificed in that cowardly manner.
The men agreed to follow him, and he led them out ; he
and his two attendants riding on the right flank. About four
miles from town we were fired upon by a party of the ene
my. Burr galloped directly to the spot the firing came from,
haUooing to the raen to follow hira. It proved to be only
a guard of about a company of the enemy, who immediately
fled. Burr and his horsemen pursued and killed several of
them. While he was thus eraployed, the head of a column
had taken a wrong road. Burr came up and hurried us to
the left, into a wood, and rode along the column frora front
to rear, encouraging the raen, and led us out to the main
army with very small loss.
The coolness, deliberation, and valour displayed by Ma
jor Burr in effecting a safe retreat, without material loss,
and his raeritorious services to the array on that day, rendered
him an object of peculiar respect from the troops, and the
particular notice of the officers. Isaac Jennings.
Andrew Wakeman.

Aged 20.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 105
LETTER from NATHANIEL JUDSON TO COMMODORE R. V.
MORRIS. Albany, 10th February, 1814.
Sir,
I have received your letter, with the preceding statement,
respecting our retreat from New- York Island, in Septem
ber, 1776, and, in compliance with your request, I have to
reply, that the relation made by Mr. Wakeman and Mr.
Jennings corresponds with my recoUection. I was near
Colonel Burr when he had the dispute with General Knox,
who said it was madness to think of retreating, as we should
meet the whole British army. Colonel Burr did not address
himself to the men, but to the officers, who had most of them
gathered around to hear what passed, as we considered our
selves as lost. But Colonel Burr seemed so confident that
he could make good a retreat, and made it clear that we
were all lost if we stayed there, that we all agreed to trust
to his conduct and courage, though it did appear to us a most
desperate undertaking ; and he did not disappoint us, for he
effected a retreat with the whole brigade ; and I do not think
we lost more than thirty men. We had several brushes
with small parties of the enemy. Colonel Burr was fore
most and most active where there was danger, and his cout
duct, without considering his extrerae youth, was afterwards
a constant subject of praise, and admiration, and gratitude.
This affair was much talked of in the army after the surr
render of Fort Washington, in which a garrison of about
2500 men was left under circumstances very simUar to
ours ; this fort having no bomb-proof. That garrison surr
rendered, as is weU known, the very same day our array
retreated ; and of those 2500 men, not 500 survived the
imprisonment they received from the British, I have, since
then, heard it repeated hundreds of times by the officers and
men of SiUiman's brigade, that our fate would have been the
same had it not been for Colonel Burr. I was a sergeant^
Vol I.— 0 5*

106 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
major in Chandler's regiment of Silliman's brigade at the
time of the retreat. I am your very obedient servant,
Nathaniel Judson

CHAPTER VIII.
As early as the 10th of August, Burr, in a letter to his
uncle Edwards,* expressed apprehensions that the retreat
of the Araerican array from Long Island might be cut off
and then that the British "would have their own fiin."
From that period until the retreat was effected, on the
night of the 27th, he continued to entertain the same opin
ion as to the necessity of retreating. So, also, in relation
to the city of New- York. He thought no attempt should
be made to hold it. Subsequent events proved his good
sense and foresight, as weU as his military genius. The
city was abandoned on the 15th of September. Ten days
after he writes to his aunt Edwards, in reply to a despond
ing letter he had received from her, his views of the recent
movements of the American army.
TO MRS. EDWARDS. Kingsbridge, 26th September, 1776.
My dear Aunt,
I fear, madam, you give yourself needless anxiety about
the situation of public affairs. It has been always held a
maxim that our island and seaport towns were at the dis
cretion of the tyrant of Great Britain. Reasons for the re
treat from Long Island are well known. The evacuation
-• See page 97.

Aged 20.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 107
of New-York was a necessary consequence. The manner
of conducting these raade present advantages but trifling to
the eneray. The loss to us is of still less importance ; and,
indeed, sorae happy consequences resulting from the man
oeuvres appear to me worthy of notice.
We have hitherto opposed them with less than half their
number, and exposed to all their advantages of shipping.
Our force is now more united, theirs more divided. Our
present situation renders their navy of less service to them,
and less formidable to us ; — a circurastance of vast impor
tance, and to which I attribute all that has heretofore ap
peared in their favour. Add to these, besides confirming
our internal union, the effect that every appearance of suc
cess on the part of the enemy has upon our leading men.
It arouses them from the lethargy which began to prevail ;
convinces them that their measures are unequal to their
grand designs ; that the present is the important moment,
and that every nerve must now be exerted.
This is not altogether fanciful. It has been actually the
case. More effectual measures than were ever before
thought of are now taking for levying a new army. A
committee of Congress are on the spot with us to know
all our wants, and report them properly, that they may be
speedily provided for. I do not intend by this, my dear
aunt, to deceive you into an opinion that every thing is
already entirely secure ; that we are now actually relieved
from every degree of danger ; but to remove your appre
hensions concerning the important events which depend on
our military exertions. I hope, madam, you wiU continue,
with your usual philosophy and resolution, prepared for
the imcertain events of war, not anticipating improbable
calamities. Various have been the reports conceming the barbarities
committed by the Hessians, most of them incredible and
false. They are fonder of plunder than blood, and are

108 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 20.
more the engines than the authors of craelty. But their
behaviour has been in some instances savage, and might
excuse a fear, if reckoned among usual calamities; but
these should be viewed on a larger scale than that of cora
¬mon complaisance. It should be reraerabered we are en
gaged in a civil war, and effecting the most important
revolution that ever took place. How little of the horrors
of either have we known ! Fire or the sward have scarce
left a trace araong us. We may be truly called a favoured
people. I have been not so engaged as common for a short time
past, and have liberty of remaining, for three or four days,
about two railes from camp, from whence I now write
you, a little more at leisure ; but I am now -within drum-
caU Your nephew, A. Burr.
After the abandonment of Manhattan Island by the
American army, and some fighting in Westchester, General
Washington crossed the North river with a part of the
troops, and retreated through New-Jersey. The move
ments of Lord CornwaUis left no doubt that the object of
the British general was Philadelphia. He advanced rapidly
from Brunswick upon Princeton, hoping, by forced marches,
to get in the rear of the Americans. On the 8th of Decem
ber, 1776, Washington crossed the Delaware, secured the
boats, and broke down the bridges. Great apprehension
and alarra for the safety of Philadelphia now existed.
Judge Marshall, in his Life of Washington, says,
" In consequence of this state of things, the general ad-
yised that lines of defence should be drawn from the
SchuylkiU, about the heights of Springatsbury, eastward to
the Delaware, and General Putnam was ordered to super
intend them." Major Burr was now actively engaged as
the aid-de-camp of General Putnam, whose esteem and un

Aged 20.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 109
bounded confidence he continued to enjoy. He writes Col
onel Ogden, Princeton, 7th March, 1777.
Dear Matt.,
I this evening received your letter of yesterday's date,
by Stockton. I knew not how to direct to you, nor where
to send for the horse, or should have done it sooner. I do
not perfectly recollect t^e one you mention, but should be
glad of any on your recommendation. Both boots and a
saddle I want rauch, and shall be obliged to you to procure
them for me ; — good leather would suit me as well as boots
ready made. I have not had a pair worth sixpence since
those I had at Elizabethtown.
As to " expectations of proraotion," I have not the least,
either in the Une or the staff. You need not express any
surprise at it, as I have never raade any application, and, as
you know me, you know I never shall. I should have
been fond of a berth in a regiment, as we proposed when I
last saw you. But, as I am at present happy in the esteem
and entire confidence of my good old general, I shaU be
piqued at no neglect, unless particularly pointed, or where
sUence would be want of spirit. 'Tis true, indeed, my for
mer equals, and even inferiors in rank, have left me. As
surances from those in power I have had unasked, and in^
abundance ; but of these I shall never remind them. We
are not to judge of our own merit, and I am content to con
tribute my mite in any station.
I shall probably be at Morris within ten days, on pub
lic business. Write me whether I may expect you there.
With sincere love to Mrs. Ogden, Yours,
A. Burr.
In the spring of 1777, a new army was to be raised. For
political reasons it was deemed expedient to select,- where

110 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR [Aged 21.
it could be done with propriety, for the colonels of regi
ments, gentlemen supposed to have an infiuence. Among
those who were thus selected was Colonel Malcolm, for
merly a raerchant in the city of New-York. He was
highly respectable, and imiversally esteemed, but was not
a mUitary man. In June, 1777, Burr was appointed Ueu
tenant-colonel of his regiment; but he did not receive
official notice of the fact untU the 26th of July.
On the 14th of July, 1777, General Putnara's head
quarters being then at Peekskill, he issued the following
order : —
By the Honourable Major-general Putnam,
To Major Aaron Burr, Aid-de-camp.
Sir,
Pursuant to orders received frora his exceUency General
Washington, you are forthwith to repair to Norwalk, Fair
field, and the places adjacent on the Sound, transmit me
without delay the intelligence you shall from time to time
receive of the moveraents of the eneray, or any of their
fleets. Request of the coramittees, or select-men of the
different towns, that they will be very punctual in reporting
to the comraanding officer at this post whatever may in
any respect relate to the movements of the army, as both
their safety and the welfare of the country may be proraoted
by their diligence in this particular.
On your return, which wiU be through Litchfield, you
wiU leave orders for all detachments of any regiments of
General Nixon's brigade to take the most direct route to
Albany, provided they be farther than thirty miles from this
place, as much will be saved, and fatigue avoided by the
observance of this. ,
Having settled a line of inteUigence from the different
towns on the coast, and left the necessary directions for the
detachments of Brigadier-general Nixon's brigade, you wiU
retum with all convenient speed to this place.

Aged 21.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. lH
Given under my hand, at headquarters, PeekskiU, 14th
day of July, 1777. Israel Putnam.
This was the last order that Major Burr ever received '
as the aid-de-camp of his " good old general." On his re
turn to carap he received, in the usual form, a letter from
General Washington, announcing to him his appointment as
lieutenant-colonel in the Continental Army, to which he /
replied, PeekskiU, 21st July, 1777.
Sir,
I was this morning favoured with your excellency's letter
of the 29th ult., and my appointraent to Colonel Malcolra's
regiment. Am truly sensible of the honour done me, and
shall be studious that my deportraent in that station be such
as will ensure your future esteem. I am nevertheless, sir,
constrained to observe, that the late date of my appointment
subjects me to the command of many who were younger in
the service, and junior officers the last campaign.
With submission, and if there is no impropriety in request- ^
ing what so nearly concerns me, I would beg to know wheth
er it was any misconduct in me, or any extraordinary merit
or services in thera, which entitled the gentleraen lately put
over me to that preference ? Or, if a uniform diligence
and attention to duty has raarked ray conduct since the
formation of the army, whether I may not expect to be
restored to that rank of which I have been deprived, rather,
I flatter myself, by accident than design? I would wish
equally to avoid the character of turbulent or passive, and
am unhappy to have troubled your exceUency with a matter
which concerns only myself. But, as a decent regard to
rank is both proper and necessary, I hope it will be ex
cused in one who regards his honour next to the welfare of
his country.
I am not yet acquainted with the state of the regiment.

112 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 21.
or the prospect of filling it ; but shall iraraediately repair to
rendezvous and receive Colonel Malcolra's directions.
I have the honour to be, with gi-eat respect,
Your excellency's obedient servant,
A. Burr.
Colonel Malcolra's regiment was at this time stationed at
Ramapo, or the Clove, in Orange county, New-York,
whither Lieutenant-colonel Burr proceeded. On presenting
himself, the colonel was greatly surprised. The youthful
appearance of Burr led him to apprehend that he would be
wanting in judgment and discretion ; but a very short ac
quaintance removed these impressions. Malcolm retired
with his faraily about twenty miles distant, leaving Burr in
command, kindly remarking — " You shall have all the hon
our of disciplining and fighting the regiment, while I wUl
be its father ;" and he kept his word, for it is believed that
he never commanded il in battle during the whole war,
although it was frequently engaged. This duty devolved
upon Colonel Burr.
In September, 1777, the British came out of the city of
New-York, on the west side of the Hudson river, about
2000 strong, for the purpose of plmidering and devastating
the adjacent country, and capturing the public stores.
Colonel Burr was with his regiraent, distant about thirty
mUes, when he heard of the eneray, and yet he was in their
camp, and captured or destroyed their picket-guards before
the next moming. For two days and nights he never slept.
His regular force did not exceed three hundred men ; but,
by surprising the British sentinels, he struck consternation
into their ranks, and they fied with precipitation, leaving
behind them their plunder and a part of their stores. The
following letters afford ample detaUs : —

V

Aged 21.] memoirs of aaron burr. 113

Statement of Judge George Gardner, dated
Newburgh, 20th December, 1813.
In September, 1777, the regiment caUed Malcolm's re
giraent lay at Suffren's, in the Clove, under the coraraand of
Lieutenant-colonel Burr Intelligence having been received
that the eneray were in Hackensack in great force, and ad
vancing into the country. Colonel Burr immediately marched
with the effective men, except a guard to take care of the
carap. I understood that while we were on the march, an
officer arrived express from Major-general Putnam, who«
comraanded at PeekskUl, recommending or ordering Colonef ,
Burr to retire with the public stores to the raountains : to
which Colonel Burr replied, that he could not run away
from an enemy whom he had not seen, and that he would
be answerable for the public stores and for his men. '
We arrived at Paramus, a distance of sixteen miles, be
fore sunset. There were considerable bodies of militia, iu
great alarra and disorder, and doing much mischief to the
neighbouring farms. They could give no intelligence of
the enemy but from rumour. Supposed them to be within a
few railes, and advancing.
Colonel Burr set some of the militia to repair the fences
they had destroyed, and arranged them as well as time
would perrait; and having taken raeasures to secure the
troops from surprise, and also for the protection of the corn
fields, he marched immediately, with about thirty of the most
active of the regiment, and a few of the militia, to ascertain
the position and numbers of the enemy. About ten o'clock
at night, being three mUes from Hackensack, we got cer
tain inteUigence that we were within a mile of the picket-
guards of the enemy. Colonel Burr then led the men into
a wood, and ordered them to sleep tiU he should awake
them, of which we had great need, having marched more
than thirty mUes since noon. Colonel Burr then went alone
to discover the position of the enemy. He retumed about
Vol. I.— P

114 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Agcd 21.
half an hom before day and waked us, and told us that he
was going to attack the picket of the eneray. That we had
only to foUow him, and then forbid any man to speak or to
fire, on pain of death. He led us between the sentinels in
such a way that we were within a few yards of the picket-
guard before they suspected our approach. He then gave
the word, and we rushed upon them before they had time
to take their arms, and the greater part were kiUed. A few
prisoners and some accoutrements were brought off without
the loss of one man. Colonel Burr immediately sent off an
express to Paramus, to order all the troops to move, and to
rally the country. Our little success had so encouraged the
inhabitants, that they tumed out with great alacrity, and put
themselves under the command of Colonel Burr. But the
enemy, probably alarmed by these threatening appearances,
retreated the next day, leaving behind thera the greater part
of the cattle and plunder which they had taken. Colonel
Burr was prevented frora pursuing, by peremptory orders,
which were received the day following the action, to join,
without delay, the raain army, then in Pennsylvania.
I served in this regiraent all the tirae it was under the
command of Colonel Burr, being about two years ; after
which he was called to take a separate command in West-
/^hester. During the whple time he never permitted corpo
ral punishraent to be inflicted in a single instance ; yet no
regiment in the army was under better discipline, and I
doubt whether it was equaUed by any one.
George Gardner.
FROM lieutenant ROBERT HUNTER TO GABRIEL FURMAN,
ESQ., MEMBER OF ASSEMBLY.
I New-York, 22d January, 1814.
Sir,
I have understood that an application will be made to the
legislature by or on behalf of Colonel Burr, for remuneration
for his military services during our revolutionary war.

Aged 21.] memoirs of aaron burr. 115
Having had the happiness to serve under hira for more
than two years, and having retained an unbounded respect
for his talents and character, you will pardon me for asking
your active support of any thing which may be moved in
his favour ; for certainly, if any officer of the army deserved
recompense, it is Colonel Burr.
He sacrificed his health, and underwent more fatigue aii3-
privations than any other officer of whom I had any knowl-\
edge. If I thought it could be useful to him or arausing to ]
you, I would enter into detaUs ; but the facts are of general,?
notoriety, and his superiority as a military man, as far as'
my knowledge e.ttends, universally allowed.
I will however detain you while I relate a single inci
dent, because it was the first of which I was a witness. I
was attached as a cadet to Colonel Malcolm's regiraent, then
stationed in the Clove, when Burr joined it as lieutenant-
colonel, being in the suraraer of 1777. Malcolra, seeing
that his presence was unnecessary while Burr was there,
was with his faraily about twenty miles distaiit. Early in
September, we heard that the enemy were out in great
force. Burr gave orders for the security of the camp and
of the public stores, and within one hour after news was re
ceived, marched with the choice of the regiment to find the
enemy. At Pararaus the raUitia were asserabled in colfl
siderable force, but in great disorder and terror. No one
could tell the force or position of the eneray. Burr assumed
the command, to which they submitted cheerfully, as he
alone (though but a boy in appearance) seemed to know
what he was about. He arranged and encouraged them as
well as time would permit, and, taking a few of the most
hardy of the men, continued his march towards the eneray.
Two or three railes this side Hackensack, we learned that we
were near the enemy's advanced guard. Burr chose a con
venient place for the men to repose, and went hiraself to ex
amine the position of the enemy. A little before daylight
he returned, waked us, and ordered us to follow him. He

116 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 21.
led us sUently and undiscovered within a few paces of the
British guard, which we took or kiUed. Frora the prisoners
we leamed that the enemy were about two thousand strong.
Without loss of time he sent expresses with orders to the
militia, and to caU out the country ; and I have no doubt
but he would, within forty-eight hours, have had an army
capable of checking the progress of the enemy, and of pre
venting or impeding their retreat ; but they retreated the day
following, and with every mark of precipitation. During
these two days and nights the colonel did not lie down or
take a minute's repose. Thus you perceive, ray dear sir,
that Burr, being raore than thirty miles distant when he
heard of the enemy, was in their camp the sarae night.
You will agree with rae that things are not done so nowa
days. Sirailar instances of activity and enterprise occurred in
each of the four carapaigns he served, and very frequently,
during the winter, he comraanded on the lines of West
chester. I repeat, that it will afford me pleasure to relate
so much of these things as came to my own knowledge, if
it would be of any use.
Malcolm was never a month with the regiment after Burr
joined it ; so that it was Burr who formed it, and it was a
pnodel for the whole aimy in discipline and order. He
never, in a single instance, permitted any corporal punish
raent. His attention and care of the men were such as I never
saw, nor any thing approaching to it, in any other officer,
though I served under many. It would be a disgrace to
the country if such a man should be denied a liberal com
pensation, when it is too weU known that he stands in need
of it,
I shall consider myself as personaUy obliged by your ex
ertions in his favour, and hope your coUeagues wiU add
theirs to yours.

Aged 21.] memoirs of aaron burr., 117
Please to show this letter to your colleagues, and to offer
them my respects. I am, very respectfully, -
Your obedient servant,
Robert Hunter.
The original order to join the main army in Peimsylvania,
to which Judge Gardner refers in the preceding statement,
is found among the papers of Colonel Burr, and is as fol
lows : — Headquarters, Peekskill, 27th September, 1777.
Sir,
I have just received a letter from General Washington, dated
thirty-four miles up Schuylkill, wherein he informs me that
General Howe's army had found means to cross Schuylkill
several railes below his army ; upon which he has ordered
a further re-enforceraent from this post, of which corps you
must join. You will therefore, upon the receipt of this, pre
pare to join General Parsons's brigade, whom I have or
dered up from the White Plains. I shall endeavour to send
some miUtia to guard the stores reraaining in the Clove
Your baggage raust go with you.
I ara, sir, your very hum.ble servant,
Israel Putnam, M. G.
Immediately after Colonel Burr had surprised and cap
tured the British guard, he received various compliraentary
notes from officers of the army requesting detaUs. A short
extract from one is given. PeekskUl, 20th September, 1777.
Dear Sir,
I congratulate you upon the good fortune you met with
in taking off the enemy's picl^et. We have had various ac

118 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 21.
counts about the manner in which you executed the plan.
The particulars I should be glad to hear from yourself.
Yours, &c. T. Yates.
To Lieutenant-colonel A. Burr.
Colonel Burr, with his accustoraed promptitude, as soon
as he received the orders of Major-general Putnam, put his
regiment in motion. On the second day of his raarch he
received from General Varnum the foUowing, directed to
Lieutenant-colonel Burr, on his march to Morristown.
Cakeat, October 1st, 1777.
Sir,
I this raoraent received your favour of this date. The
enemy have landed at Powler's Hook in great force. I am
apprehensive they mean attacking Fort Montgomery by the
way of the Clove. I have sent ray baggage and sorae forces
there. The enemy must be attended to. You wiU there
fore halt in the nearest place that is convenient upon the re
ceipt of this. Keep a good look-out towards Newark, Eliz
abethtown, &c., or those places from whence they can
march into Pumpton. Should you be in danger of being in-
¦terrapted there, throw your party across the river in Pump-
ton, and defend the bridge, if practicable. If not, make the
best retreat you can towards Morristown, &c. But by no
means proceed unless necessity urges, derived from the pres
ent object. In every thing else pursue your best discretion.
I am, sir, your humble servant, I. Varnum.
The foUowing note from General Conway tends to prove,
that although Burr was only a lieutenant-colonel in 1777,
yet that he was actuaUy received and treated as the com
mandant of his regiraent, from which he was never absent
Colonel Malcolm, in general, was employed on other duty.

Aged ,21.] memoirs of aaron burr. 119

from GENERAL CONWAY.
29th October, 1777.
Sir,
I have received a letter from Captain Kearsley respecting
the settlement of the rank of the captains and subalterns. I
could not give him an immediate answer, because I was then
attending a court-martial. I wish this matter was settled as
soon as possible to the satisfaction of the officers of your re
giment. The general officers being employed in several
courts-martial, which, along with the camp-duty, will take
up all their time, I think you had best apply to the adju
tant-general. Know from him the raanner in which the
ranks of the Virginia and Pennsylvania officers have been
settled, and arrange accordingly, at least pro terapore, the
rank of your gentlemen.
I am, sir, your most obedient and humble servant,
T. Conway.
The regiment joined the army in November, 1777, at
Whitemarsh, in Pennsylvania, twenty miles from Philadel
phia. Colonel Burr, in comraand of it, was stationed about
half a raile in advance of the main body. After a few
weeks, the army went into winter-quarters at VaUey Forge^
During the winter. Colonel Burr proposed to General Wash
ington an expedition against Staten Island. He stated to
the comraander-in-chief that he was personally and well ac
quainted with raany of the inhabitants in the vicinity of the
island. That he believed they would join him as volun
teers ; and that he only asked two hundred men of his own
regiment as a nucleus. General Washington declined grant
ing the request. But subsequently, an unsuccessful attempt
was made under the command of Lord Stirling.
Within eight or ten mUes of VaUey Forge, there was a
narrow and important pass, known as the Gulf. A strong
body of miUtia were stationed to defend it. They were in

120 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 21 .
the habit of exciting in the camp false alarms; and the
main body, in consequence, was frequently put in motion.
When not put in motion, they were greatly disturbed, espe
cially at night. These alarms generally resulted frora the
want of a rigid discipUne. General M'DougaU was at Val
ley Forge, and exceedingly annoyed. Of Burr, as a dis
ciplinarian and a soldier, he entertained a high opinion ;
arid recoraraended to Washington that he withdraw from
this detachment Burr's seniors, as officers, and give him
the command of the post, which was accordingly done.
Colonel Burr immediately commenced a rigid system of
police, visiting every night, and at all hours of the night,
the sentinels; changing their position, &c. During the
day he kept the troops under a constant driU. The rigour
of this service was not adapted to the habits of nulitia, who
had been accustomed to pass, in camp, a life of idleness,
and to act as suited their individual whims and caprices.
A portion of the most worthless became restless, and were
determined to rid themselves of such a comraander.
Colonel Burr was notified of the contemplated mutiny,
in which he would probably fall a victim. He ordered the
detachment to be forraed that night (it being a cold, bright
moonlight), and secretly directed that all their cartridges
should be drawn, so that there should not bea feaded raus
ket on the ground. He provided himself with a^good and
well-sharpened sabre. He knew all the principal rauti-
neers. He marched along the line, eying the men 'closely.
When he came opposite to one of the most daring of the
ringleaders, the soldier advanced a step, and levelled his
musket at Colonel Burr, caUing out — " Now is your time,
my boys." Burr, being well prepared and in readiness,
anticipating an assault, with a celerity for which he was re
markable, smote the arm of the mutineer above the elbow,
and nearly severed it from his body, ordering him, at the
same time, to take and keep his place in the line. In a
few minutes the men were disraissed, and the arm of the

Aged 21.] memoirs op aaron burr. 12I
mutineer was next day amputated. No more was heard of
the mutiny; nor were there afterwards, during Colonel
Bun-'s command, any false alarms. This soldier belonged
to Wayne's brigade; and some of the officers talked of
having Colonel Burr arrested, and tried by a court-martial,
for the act ; but the threat was never carried into execution.
That Colonel Burr joined the army at White Marsh, and
was there in command of his regiment, the foUowing appli
cation and order will show : — Near White Marsh, Nov., 1777.
Sir,
The papers and clothing of the companies which have
lately joined Malcolm's regiment are at Bethlem. The papers
are now wanted; and several of the officers cannot appear
decent until they receive other clothes : for these reasons I
would ask your indulgence for leave of absence, for two
subalterns, six days. Their presence is not particularly
necessary with their companies.
Respectfully your ob't serv't, A. Burr.
Hon. General Conway.
This application General Conway retums, with the fol
lowing endorsement : —
Colonel Burr is master to send such officers as he thinks
requisite, in order to procure the papers wanted, and the
clothes for the use of the regiment.
T. Conway.
While the army was at Valley Forge, in the winter of
1777-78, the difficulties between General Washington and
General Gates, and their respective friends, became, in a
great measure, matter of publicity. At this period there
were two parties among the officers. Washington had his
warm friends and supporters. Lee and Gates had theirs.
Vol I— Q 6

122 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Agcd 21.
CinloTlgKRrirrjps nf tbeJattfiT. The merits of the question
wiU not be discussed ; and the subject wiU only be referred
to so far as Burr is concerned.
In the spring of 1776, at the request of the commander-
in-chief. Burr joined his mUitary faraily for a short space
of time, but soon became dissatisfied and retired. On the
29th of August, 1776, the American army retreated from
Long Island. This retreat Burr had pressed upon Putnam,
Mifflin, and others. In his letter to T. Edwards,* dated
the 10th of August, nearly three weeks before it took place,
he says : " They (the British) are to come through the
Sound, and thus invest us by the North and East rivers.
They are then to land on both sides of the island, join
their forces, and draw a line across, ivhich will hem us in,
and totally cut off all communication, after which they will
have their own fun."
During the night of the retreat. Burr was actively enga
ged aiding M'DougaU in the embarcation of the troops at
Brooklyn ; and, frora a personal knowledge of the localities
of it and the adjacent places, he imagined that he had ren
dered some service. It has been shown that, by his intre
pidity and perseverance in the retreat from New-York, he
rescued frora irapending danger the brigade of General Sil
liman. In neither of these cases was his conduct noticed
by the commander-in-chief, either in general orders or
^athetWiseT" Young, ardent, ambitious, and of a fiery tem
perament, he thought that justice was not done to his
efforts, and construed these, with other minor occurrences
about the same time, into acts of hostility towards him. In
September, 1776, therefore, his prejudices against General
if Washington became fixed and unchangeable ; and to the
latest hour of his life he recurred to the retreat from Long
Island, and from the city of New-York, with acrimonious
feelings towards the commander-in-chief. Whatever may
* See page 96.

Aged 21.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 123
be said to the contrary, as early as this period those preju??
dices were formed and confirmed. That General Wash
ington placed no confidence in Burr, and that, for some
reason, he was exceedingly hostUe towards him, is equaUy
certain. Whether his hostihty commenced at this period
is matter of more uncertainty. Events already noticed
demonstrate that the general considered him an intrepid,
efficient, and vigilant officer.
Thus, in 1777, Burr was the friend of Lee and Gates in\
opposition to General Washington. In the beginning ofl
January, 1778, it was reported to Burr that Lord Stirling
had made some remarks respecting the manner in which the
colonel had contributed to arrange the rank of his (Burr's)
subaltern officers. Lord Stirling at this time commanded
the division. It will be recollected that, a few weeks previ
ous. Colonel Burr had proposed to the commander-in-chief
an enterprise against Staten Island, which was rejected;
but, immediately after, it was unsuccessfully attempted by
Lord Stirling. The difficulty, therefore, in fact, between
these gentlemen, grew out of the latter circumstance. On
the 7th of January, 1778, Burr addressed Lord Stirling,
requesting an explanation, which was promptly given in the
foUowing note, and thus the matter terminated. Camp, January Sth, 1778.
Sir,
The receipt of your letter of yesterday's date not a little
surprised me, for I can assure you that I have never made
use of a word in censure of yourself, or of the court you
mention. I some days ago ordered a retum to be brought
in of the names and rank of the officers of the division,
independent of what the two courts were doing, and de
sired Major Monroe* to direct the brigade-majors to make
them out as soon as possible : from this, I suppose, some
* James Monroe, late president of the United States, then aid to Lord Stirling.

124 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR [Aged 22
mistake has arose, which I will call upon Major Stagg to
explain. I am.
Your raost obedient humble servant, Stirling.
Lieutenant-colonel Burr.

CHAPTER IX.
Colonel Burr was a rigid disciplinarian, and in the per
forraance of his duty made no difference between those of
ficers who were his friends and those who were not ; yet he
never failed to adopt the raost delicate and gentlemanly
course, where, in his opinion, rigour becarae necessary.
There are raany docuraents tending to establish this fact,
such as the foUowing : — Camp, April 10th, 1778.
My Lord,
In my weekly returns, your lordship may have observed
that Captain Tom has been returned — absent without leave.
As he had been long from the regiment, and no reasons had
been assigned to me for his extraordinary absence, I thought
myself in duty bound to make such report. Upon his return
to camp, he has accounted for his conduct in a manner more
satisfactory than I feared he could.
Unwilling to deal too severely with a valuable officer, and
conscious of the impropriety of passing any seeming neglect
in entire sUence, I refer him to your lordship as the proper
judge of his conduct and excuses.
My lord, you are acquainted with the character of Captain
Tom. You have often heard me mention him with respect.
Should his absence appear, in any degree, to have arisen
from inattention, I hope your lordship will treat it with all

Aged 22.] MEMOIRS or aaron burr. 125
the deUcacy which the conduct of a man of feeling and of
spirit can desire. I have the honour to be.
Your lordship's most obedient servant,
A. Burr.

from colonel MALCOLM.
Yorktown, June 16th, 1778.
My dear Sir,
I have just nowmet with Captain Kearsley, which enables
me to let you Itnow that I am here, sent by General Gates
to Congress on a variety of business.
I have consented to do duty as adjutant-general to, the
northern army, on conditions of holding my regiment, knd
that it should come to the northward. The first agreed to ;
the last according to events. i
None of the sixteen additional regiments stand on the new
establishment. Of the strongest, if ours coraes within that
description, it will be one. As General Washington writes
General Gates that he cannot conveniently spare you at this
time, I recommend your sending three or four officers to the
State of New-York on the recruiting service. You know
who will answer best, and who can be best spared ; and to
recruit for the regiment at large, I think I can provide you
with sorae raen.
As I have not time either to pass through, come, or to
write any other of the officers, do tell them how I am cir
cumstanced, and offer them ray best respects. I am happy
to hear that Major Pawling is better. I shall write from
Peekskill very soon, and beg to hear from you.
I ever am, very sincerely, affectionately yours,
W. Malcolm.
By the preceding letter it appears that " General Wash
ington had written to General Gates that he could not con
veniently spare Colonel Burr." The reason is obvious. It

126 MEMOIRS, OF AARON BURR. [Aged 22.
was at the very moment when Sir Henry Clinton was about
to evacuate PhUadelphia, and to retreat through New-Jer
sey. The commander-in-chief was unwilUng at such a cri
sis to part with an efficient and gaUant officer. On the 18th
of June, Sir Henry Clinton, with his forces, left the city,
proceeded to Gloucester Point, three mUes do-wn the river,
and crossed the Delaware into New Jersey. That day he
raarched as far as Haddonfield. The Americans crossed
the Delaware at Corriel's Ferry, and halted, after a dis
tressing march from heat and rain, within five miles of Prince
ton. During the preceding winter General Lee had been
exchanged, and joined the army at Valley Forge.
The enemy's force was now estimated at between 9000
and 10,000, rank and file. The Americans at 10,600, exclu
sive of Maxwell's brigade, about 1200, and about 1200 mi
litia. On the 24th of June, 1778, the commander-in-chief
propounded to the general officers the question, " Will it- be
advisable to hazard a general action ?" The answer was,
"Not advisable ; but a detachinent of 1500 to be iraraedi
ately sent to act, as occasion may serve, on the eneray's left
flank and rear, in conjunction with the other continental
troops and militia already hanging about thera, and the raain
body to preserve a relative position, to act as circumstances
may require." Signed by Lee, StirUng, Greene, Fayette,
Steuben, Poor, Paterson, Woodford, Scott, Portail, Knox.
Four days after, viz., the 28th of June, the battle of Mon
mouth was fought. It was on this occasion that General
Washington ordered the arrest of General Lee : Istly, For
disobedience of orders in not attacking the enemy on the
28th of June, agreeably to repeated instructions ; 2dly, For
misbehaviour before the enemy on the same day, by making
an unnecessary, disorderly, and shameful retreat; 3dly,
For disrespect to the coramander-in-chief, in two letters, da
ted the 20th of June. On the 12th of August the court-
martial, of which Lord Stirling was president, found Lee
guilty, and sentenced him to be suspended from any com-

Aged 22.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 127
mand in the armies of the United States for the term of
twelve months. The history of the battle of Monmouth,
with all the consequences that followed, has long since been
given to the world by the friends and the opponents of the
respective parties. It is only necessary to state here, tha^
Colonel Burr, on that occasion, was ranked among the sup
porters of Lee, and had himself real or imaginary cause of,
complaint against the comraander-in-chief.
In this action Colonel Burr coraraanded a brigade in the
division of Lord Stirling, coraposed of his own regiment and
some Pennsylvanians, under the iraraediate coramand of
Lieutenant-colonel Dummer. Gordon, in his History of the
American Revolution, says, " The check the British received
gave tirae to raake a disposition of the left wing and second
line of the main array in the wood, and on the eminence to
which he had been directed and was retreating. On this
were placed some batteries of cannon by Lord Stirling, who
comraanded the left wing, which played upon the British
with great effect, and, seconded hy parties of infantry de
tached to oppose them, effectually put a stop to their advance.
The British, finding themselves warmly opposed in front,
atterapted to turn the American left flank, but were re
pulsed." Shortly after the action had become general, Burr dis
covered a detachraent of the enemy coming from the bor
ders of a wood on the southward. He instantly put his
brigade in motion for the purpose of checking them. It
was necessary to cross a morass, over which a bridge was
thrown. He ordered LieutenantTColonel Dummer to ad
vance with the Pennsylvania detachment, and that he would
bring up the rear with his own regiraent. After a part of
the brigade was over the bridge. Colonel Barber, aid to
General Washington, rode up, and said that the orders of the
commander-in-chief were that he should halt. Colonel
Burr remonstrated. He said his men, in their present posi
tion, were exposed to the fire of the enemy, and that his

128 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 22,
whole brigade must now cross the bridge before they could
halt with any safety. Colonel Barber repeated that the
orders of General Washington were peremptory that he
should halt, which was accordingly done, and the brigade,
in their divided state, suffered severely. Lieutenant-colonel
Dummer was kUled ; Colonel Burr's horse was shot under
him ; and those who had crossed the bridge were compeUed
to retreat.
The movements and the firing of the armies continued.
until dark. The Americans remained on the battle-ground,
with an intention of renewing the attack in the moming.
Burr's uniform practice was, when near an enemy, to be up
at night, visiting his own pickets, and taking the necessary
precautions for avoiding a surprise. The night preceding
the action Colonel Burr was thus engaged, as it was known
that the British would raove at dawn of day, if not before,
and General Washington had given orders to Lee, who was
in the advance, to commence the attack as soon as they did
move. The weather was intensely hot. Notwithstanding
the fatigue which Colonel Burr had undergone during the
night of the 27th and the succeeding day, yet he remained
up the night of the 28th also. Sir Henry Clinton's
troops were employed in removing their wounded, and then
marched away in such silence, that, though General Poor
lay near them, their retreat was effected without his knowl
edge. Exhausted with fatigue, and wom out for the want of re
pose, on the 29th, Colonel Burr lay down under the shade
of some trees and fell asleep. When he awoke, he was
exposed, and had been for some time, to the rays of the
sun. He found himself unable to walk without great diffi
culty; and so severely was he afflicted, that he did not
recover from its effects for some years afterwards. A
stranger to complaints or murmurs when enduring pain,
the real state of his health was unknown to even his brother
officers. In this situation he was immediately ordered by

Aged 22.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 129
General Washington, through Lord Stirling, to repair to
EUzabethtown, on highly important and confidential busi
ness. The great object of the comraander-in-chief was to
ascertain, as far as practicable, the future moveraents of the
eneray. Sir Henry Clinton having secured his retreat to the
city of New- York. General Washington proceeded to
New-Brunswick, at which place Lord Stirling was attend
ing as president of the court-martial for the trial of Gen
eral Lee. The following notes will explain the character
of Burr's mission, and the confidence reposed in him by
the commander-in-chief. FROM lord STIRLING. Brunswick, July 4th, 1778,
Dear Sir,
I have this moment received yours of yesterday's date.
On showing it to General Washington, he approves of the
progress of your inquiries, and desires they may be con
tinued. But he particularly desires me to send off this ex
press to you, to request that you will endeavour to get all
the intelUgence you possibly can from the city of New- York :
What are the preparations of shipping for embarcation of
foot or horse ? — what expeditions on hand ? — whether up the
North river, Connecticut, or West Indies ? For this purpose
you may send one, two, or three trasty persons over to the
city, to get the reports, the newspapers, and the truth, if
they can. We are just going to exhibit a grand champetre
and feu de joie, so must only say that
I am sincerely yours, Stirling,
from lord stirling. Brunswick, July 6th, 1778,
Dear Sir,
I have your letter of yesterday's date. The court-marT
tial, of which I am president, is adjourned to Morristown,
Vol. I,— R 6*

130 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 22.
which wiU obUge me to go there to-morrow. I must there
fore desire you wiU direct your letters, with such inteUi
gence as you may procure, to his excellency General
Washington, who wiU be on the Une of march with the
army. In haste, Your most obedient servant, STrtlLING.

FROM LORD STIRLING. Brunswick, July 6, 1778.
General Washington desires rae to state that he wishes
you would employ three, four, or more persons, to go to
Bergen heights, Weehawk, Hoebuck, or any other heights
thereabout, convenient to observe the motions of the ene
my's shipping, and to give him the earliest inteUigence
thereof; whether up the river particularly. In short, every
thing possible that can be obtained. Yours, &c., Stirling.
from tench tilghman. Newark, July Sth, 1778.
Dear Sir,
His excellency desires me to inquire whether you have
received any information of the enemy's movements, situa
tion, or design? He will leave this place about 4 o'clock
this afternoon, before which he will expect to hear from
you. I am, dear sir, your raost obedient.
Tench Tilghman.
Having completed the business on which he had been
despatched by the comraander-in-chief. Colonel Burr pro
ceeded to join his regiment, although his health was very
bad. In a few days he received the following order : —

Aged 22.] memoirs of aaron burr. 131
Camp, near Croton Bridge, Wth July, 1778.
Colonel Malcolm's regunent is ordered to raarch at two
o'clock to-morrow morning, to the fort at West Point, on
Hudson river, with the regiment comraanded by Lieutenant-
colonel Parker, which is to join on the road near Croton
bridge. The commander of the two regiments will make
all convenient despatch, marching ten miles a day, as
water and ground wiU admit. The Baron De Kalb.
Early in July, 1778, in consequence of Sir Henry Clin
ton having arrived in New- York with his army, rauch ex
citement and some apprehension existed in the upper part
of the state respecting the tories. The legislature had pre
viously adopted rigid measures on the subject, and it be
came necessary that an intelligent and confidential military
officer should be designated to take charge of thera. Gen
eral Washington selected Colonel Burr for this purpose.
The trust was one of a delicate character, /

FROM ROBERT BENSON.
Camp, "White Plains, 2d August, 1778,
Sir,
By an act of the legislature of the State of New-York,
the commissioners for detecting and defeating conspiracies,
&c., were directed to tender an oath of aUegiance, in the
said act prescribed, to certain persons, inhabitants of this
state, who have affected to observe, during the present war,
a dangerous and equivocal neutrality ; and on their refusal
to take the sarae, that the said coraraissioners should cause
them to be conveyed within the enemy's lines. In conse
quence whereof, sundry persons, to whom the said oath hath
been tendered, and who have refused to take the sarae, were
by the coraraissioners directed to rendezvous at FishkiU, on
Monday next, in order to embark on board a sloop to be
, provided at that place for the purpose.

132 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 22.
In order that this business might be conducted with as
little danger as possible to the operations of the present
campaign, his excellency Governor Clinton requested his
exceUency the comraander-in-chief to appoint an officer of
the army for the purpose ; and you being assigned to this
business, his excellency Governor Clinton hath directed me,
in his name, to request you to repair to Fishkill on Monday
next, &c.
If by any accident you should not find the commissioners
at Fishkill, his excellency wiU be much obliged to you if
you would ride up to Poughkeepsie, where the board are
sitting. I am, with great respect, yours, &c.,
Robert Benson, Secretary.
P. S. Enclosed is the flag ; and his excellency the gover
nor desires you will fill the blanli with the name of the
sloop, and the naraes of the persons who may be put on
board by the commissioners.
At a meeting of the Board of Commissioners for detecting
and defeating Conspiracies, held at Poughkeepsie, Au
gust 3d, 1778.
Present — Mr. Platt, Mr. Harpur, Mr. Cantine, and Mr.
Wynkoop. The board having received a letter from his excellency
Governor Clinton, dated at camp. White Plains, the second
instant, informing that his excellency General Washington
had appointed Lieutenant-colonel Burr to conduct such
persons as had refused to take the oath of aUegiance to this
state, prescribed by an act of the legislature thereof, within
the enemy's lines ; therefore.
Resolved, That Colonel Burr be served with a copy of
the proceedings of this board against WiUiam Smith and
CadwaUader Colden, Esquires, and Mr. Roeliff J. Eltinge ;
and that he is hereby authorized to remove each and every

Aged 22.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 133
of them within the enemy's lines, in such way and manner
as his excellency General Washington may have already
directed, or hereafter shall direct.
Extracts from the minutes, by order,
Teunis Tappan, Secretary to the Board.
FROM THE COMMISSIONERS TO COLONEL BURR.
Poughkeepsie, August 3d, 1778.
Sir,
The commissioners for conspiracies being informed by
his excellency the governor of your appointment to receive
at Fishkill such persons as have refused to take the oath
prescribed by a law of this state, and who, by virtue of the
said law, are to be sent into the enemy's lines, by us ap
pointed to carry the sarae into execution ; in consequence
of this, we hereby send you WiUiara Sraith, CadwaUader
Colden, Esquires, and Mr. Roeliff J. Eltinge, who have re
fused to take the said oath, and thereby have subjected
themselves to a removal within the said lines, which re
moval you will be pleased to take charge of.
The bearer, Cornelius E. Wynkoop, Esquire, is one of
the board, to whom we refer you for such particulars as
may be necessary to adjust, the more effectually to enable
us to convey, in future, such gentlemen as the above over
into the enemy's lines.
We are, sir, with respect.
Your most obedient servants,
Zepha. Platt, ^
Robert Harpur, > Commissioners.
Peter Cantine, Jun., )

134 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 22.
FROM THEODORE SEDGWICK. Kinderhook, August 7th, 1778.
My dear Sir,
I write you in haste by Mr. Van Schaack,* who will con
vey it to you should you be at West Point. This gentle
man has, by long acquaintance, manifested such qualities as
have much attached me to his interest ; but, most unfor
tunately for his friends, has differed in political opinions
from the body of the coraraunity in general, and frora me in
particular, in consequence of which difference (by means of
the test act of this state) he is about to be removed to the
city of New- York ; and has been so obliging as to offer me
his assistance in procuring for, and sending to me, a few
family necessaries. Should it be in your power, I am very
certain it would be an unnecessary request to desire you to
lend me any assistance : nor need I desire you to render
Mr. Van Schaack's short stay among you as agreeable as
his and your circurastances will perrait.
I most sincerely congratulate you on the happy prospect
of a speedy terraination to the war. I believe I shall visit
the camp soon, in which case you will have the pleasure
to see Mr. Edwards in corapany. I have, since I saw you,
become the father of a second daughter. Pamela has had
a most tedious and dangerous illness, but is, thank God,
now, for her, very well. You may be sure she will be
glad to be affectionately reraerabered by you.
Yours raost sincerely, Theodore Sedgwick.
It has heretofore been stated that Colonel Burr was of
the Lee and Gates party in the array. A short note from
Lee to Burr will show the poignancy of the general's feel-
* There were two families of Van Schaicks in the State of New- York.
They spelled their namea differently. The family of Colonel Van Schaick were
revolutionary whigs. The Vcm Schaacks were adherents of the crown.

Aged 22.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 135
ings under the sentence of the court-martial, and the mortifi
cation and disappointment he experienced when Congress
refused to reverse that sentence.

PROM GENERAL LEE. October, 1778.
Dear Sir,
As you are so kind as to interest yourself so warmly in
my favour, I cannot resist the temptation of writing you a
few lines. TiU these two days, I was convinced the Con
gress would unanimously have rescinded the absurd, shame
ful sentence of the court-martial ; but, within these two
days, I am taught to think that equity is to be put out of
the question, and the decision of the affair to be put entirely
on the strength of party ; and, for my own part, I do not
see how it is possible, if the least decency or regard for
national dignity has place, that it can be called a party
business. I wish I could send you the trial, and will the moment I
can obtain one. I think myself, and I dare say you will
think on the perasal, that the affair redounds more to
my honour, and the disgrace of ray persecutors, than, in
the warmth of indignation, either I or ray aid-de-caraps
have represented it. As I have no idea that a proper rep
aration will be made to my injured reputation, it is my
intent, whether the sentence is reversed or not reversed, to
resign my commission, retire to Virginia, and learn to
hoe tobacco, which I find is the best school to form a con
summate general. This is a discovery I have lately made.
Adieu. Dear sir, believe me to be- your most
Sincerely obliged servant,
C. Lee.
After the battle of Monraouth, in June, 1778, Colonel
Burr was constantly employed. His health, from the fa
tigues of that and the subsequent day, was greatly impaired.

136 memoirs op AARON BURR. [Aged 22.
Early in October, he found himself, in a measure, unfit for
active service. He left West Point, where his regiment
was stationed, and repaired to Elizabethtown, in the hope
that a few'weeks of repose might prove beneficial ; but in
these hopes he was sorely disappointed. He then deter
mined to ask a furlough, and retire from the array for a few
months, provided the furlough was granted without his re
ceiving pay. On this point he was very fastidious. By
these feelings he was uniformly governed through a long
¦^ife. He never sought nor accepted an office for the emol
ument it afforded. He wrote the commander-in-chief on
the subject, as follows : —
^¦^•v.,  TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Elizabethtown, 24th October, 1778.
Sir,
The excessive heat and occasional fatigues of the pre
ceding campaign, have so impaired ray health and constitu
tion as to render rae incapable of iramediate service. I
have, for three months past, taken every advisable step for
my recovery, but have the raortification to find, upon my
return to duty, a return of sickness, and that every relapse
is more dangerous than the forraer. I have consulted sev
eral physicians ; they all assure me that a few months re
tirement and attention to my health are the only probable
means to restore it. A conviction of this truth, and of my
present inability to discharge the duties of my office, induce
me to beg your excellency's permission to retire from pay
and duty till my health will permit, and the nature of ser
vice shall raore particularly require ray attention, provided
such permission can be given without subjecting rae to any
disadvantage in point of ray present rank and command, or
any I might acquire during the interval of my absence.
I shall still feel and hold myself liable to be called into
service at your excellency's pleasure, precisely as if in fuU
pay, and barely on furlough ; reserving to myself only the

Aged 22.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 137
privilege of judging of the sufficiency of my health during
the present appearance of inactivity. My anxiety to be out
of pay arises in no raeasure from intention or wish to avoid
any requisite service. But too great a regard to malicious
surmises, and a delicacy perhaps censurable, might other
wise hurry rae uimecessarily into service, to the preju
dice of my health, and without any advantage to the pub
lic, as I have had the misfortune already to experience.
I ara encouraged in this proposal by the opinion Lord
Stirling has been pleased to express of the justice of ray re
quest ; — the sense your excellency raust entertain of the
weak state of the corps in which I have the honour to com
mand, and the present sufficiency of its respective officers.
I purpose keeping my quarters at this place until I have
the honour of your excellency's answer, which I wait with
impatience. I am, with respect. Your humble servant,
A. Burr.
His Excellency George Washington.
FROM GENERAL WASHINGTON.
Headquarters, Fredericksburgh, 26th October, 1778.
Dear Sir,
I have your favour of the 24th. You, in my opinion,
carry your ideas of delicacy too far when you propose to
drop your pay while the recovery of your health necessarily
requires your absence frora the service. It is not custora-
ary, and it would be unjust. You therefore have leave to
retire until your health is so far re-established as to enable
you to do your duty. Be pleased to give the colonel notice
of this, that he raay know where to call upon you should any
unforeseen exigency require it.
I am your obedient servant,
G. Washington.
Vol. I.— S

138 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 22.
On the receipt of the above letter. Colonel Burr repaired
to West Point and joined his regiment, notwithstanding the
shattered state of his constitution. He was unwiUing to ab
sent hiraself from the service, and at the same time receive
pay. Colonel Burr was now in his twenty-third year, and
yet so youthful was his appearance, that strangers, on a first
introduction, viewed hira as a raere boy. As evidence of
the fact, he has often related with great good-humour this
anecdote. While he was commanding at West Point, a
countryman had some business to transact with hira. He
requested adraittance to Colonel Burr. The orderly ser
geant conducted him into headquarters.
" Sir," said the countryman, " I wish to see Colonel
Burr, as I have something to say to him."
" You may proceed. I am Colonel Burr."
"I suppose," rejoined the honest farraer, "you are, Col
onel Burr's son."
The sentinel at the door heard and repeated the conver
sation, and Burr was often afterwards designated as Colonel
Burr's son. He remained at West Point until Deceraber,
when he was removed to Haverstraw by the orders of Gen
eral M'Dougall, and had the comraand of a brigade, consist
ing of Malcolm's regiraent, and a portion of Spencer's and
Patten's regiraents. He was subsequently ordered to take
coramand on the lines in Westchester county, a most ira
portant and not less perilous post. In December, he re
ceived from Mrs. J. Montgomery, the widow of General
Montgomery, a letter, as foUows : —
FROM MRS. MONTGOMERY. Rhinebeck, December 25th, 1778.
Sir,
I take the liberty to enclose a list of things Mr. Sraith was
so kind as to send rae from New- York by the retum flag.
The captain of the flag, of whom I made some inquiries,

A^ed 22.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 139
professed to know nothing of them, and referred me to Col
onel Burr, who might know something of the matter.
I am almost ashamed to take up your attention about so
sraall an affair ; but the difficulty that attends obtaining the
least article of dress, raust, I think, plead ray apology. Be
sides, having this opportunity, I would wish to assure Col
onel Burr of the very great respect I have for those gentle
men whom General Montgomery professed to esteem;
among which, sir, I am told you was not the least. To be
by him distinguished argues a superior merit, and wiU ensure
you a most sincere welcome at Rhinebeck should it lie in
your way. I am, sir, with esteem, yours, &c.
J. Montgomery.
Colonel Burr.
On taking command of the lines in Westchester, Colonel
Burr received from brother officers congratulatory letters, so
distinguished was the station considered. Colonel Udney
Hay, under date of the 29th of January, 1779, says, "As
you have now got the post of honour, accept of my sincere
wishes that you may reap the laurels I believe you de
serve." As soon as Burr arrived at the camp, he commenced a
system of reform and discipline. Previous to his arrival,
there was exhibited a most disgraceful scene of plunder,
and soraetiraes of murder, along the whole frontier. This
he promptly checked ; and, in all his efforts to accomphsh
this end, he was sustained by General M'DougaU.
TO GENERAL m'dOUGALL.
Camp, -White Plains, 12th January, 1779.
Dear Sir,
The enclosed return wiU show you the deficiency of offi
cers and men at this post. Above the complement for the
parties, I wish to have a guard for myself, and a commissa-

140 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 22.
ry's guard. To detail men for these purposes will interfere
with the rotation of duty.
I arrived here on Friday evening. The weather on Sat
urday was too severe and stormy to permit me to make my
self acquainted with the post and disposition of the troops.
I iraproved yesterday for those purposes, and found it ne
cessary to alter the position. I have moved the left three
mUes forward, and the two centre divisions so as to aUign
with that and Tarryto-wn. The posts now possessed by
these detachments are,
First. Tarrytown.
Second. Isaac Reed's and John Hamraond's, near Saw
mill river.
Third. Starr's and Moses MiUer's, one and a half mUes
in front of Young's.
Fourth. Merritt's and neighbouring houses, near Farmer
Oakley's. By this arrangement the extent of my command is con
tracted three miles, and the distance from my left to the
Sound is three miles less than before. The men more cora
pact, and the posts equidistant from the enemy. While I
was upon the business above mentioned, Colonel Littlefield
and Mr. Thomas visited Colonel Enos and Lieutenant-
colonel Holdridge, to enforce the necessity of an iraraediate
junction, to complete the security of the country upon the
present plan ; but these gentlemen say they have no orders
to cross Biram river. They have their quarters in Horse-
neck, and some troops are north of that place. Thus, not
withstanding my endeavours, the country will be unpro
tected, and I am insecure.
I enclose you the arrest of a Captain Brown. I am sorry
for the necessity of any thing which may have the appear
ance of severity ; but the avowal of behaviour so very un
becoming constrained me to it. The required parties of
mUitia wiU, I believe, join me this week. I shall -write you
about iron-bound casks in a few days. There is not a hide,

Aged 22.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 141
the property of the country, in all this quarter, except four
teen in the hands of the commissary of hides. I shall,
as soon as possible, make myself acquainted with the offi
cers of the mUitia. I have sent to Bedford, but have no
answer, about rum, &c.
I send the names ofa few of Malcolm's officers, whom I
would wish were ordered to join me immediately. Some
of them, I believe, are absent. Lieutenant-colonel Little
field had it in intention to go with most of the men this
evening on an expedition to West Farras and Morrisania.
Abstracted from your verbal instructions, the plan appeared
to me premature. The men here are riot half officered;
the country by no means sufficiently reconnoitred; the
force very inadequate, even for covering parties. As there
was a prospect that each of the inconveniences would shortly
be removed, I advised to defer it. To convince them that
my disapprobation arose from no jealousy of honour, I told
Colonel Littlefield that if the enterprise should hereafter be
thought more advisable, I would leave to him the execution :
if I should thinkj proper to send him on that command, I
would act with the covering party. One hundred and fifty
continentals and fifty militia was the force proposed for this
evening ; but as there are a number of volunteers on the
spot, I consented to and encouraged an excursion to Frog's
Neck, under Colonel Littlefield. I expect little from it, but
have not so much to fear.
I hope Mr. Stagg succeeded in his application to Mr.
Erskine. A draught of the country would be of great ser
vice to me. In your instructions about plunder, you direct
that all the fat horses, &c. in the hands of disaffected persons,
" lying certain courses," are to be taken, on the supposition
that they are designed for, or will fall into the hands of, the
eneray. As this mode of deterraining raay be the source of
much altercation, I could wish, if you thought proper, the
seizable property raight be designated by a certain nuraber
of miles below our lines, or below the line intended to be

142 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 22.
formed from Tarrytown, through White Plams, to Sawpits
or Rye.
The two parties from Paterson's brigade will most of
them want shoes in ten days. It is my opinion that a great
part of those who came last with new shoes, wUl not, at the
expiration of the time, be able to retum for the want of
shoes. Those they now have are of the slightest French
make ; many already worn out. If these raen raust be
again relieved by others better shod, and they again in a
few days, there will be such an endless marching and coun
termarching as will harass the troops, and wear out more
shoes than all the duty performed here. Would not these
evils be in some raeasure remedied by sending me a parcel
of shoes ? I will keep an exact account of the regiment
they are delivered to. Your most obedient servant,
. ; A. Burr.
TO GENERAL m'dOUGALL.
White Plains, January 13th, 1779.
Sir,
All the horsemen were so infatuated with the itch for
scouting, that I had not one to despatch with the letter here
with sent. Colonel Littlefield, with the party, retumed this
morning. They brought up one prisoner. I shall send
him up with another grand rascal to-raorrow. There are
evidences enough against Merritt to hang a dozen such, but
many of thera dare not appear at present.
Notwithstanding the cautions I gave, and notwithstanding
Colonel Littlefield's good intentions, I blush to teU you that
the party returned loaded with plunder. Sir, tiU now, I
never wished for arbitrary power. I could gibbet half a
dozen good whigs, with aU the venom of an inveterate tory.
The party had not been returned an hour, before I had six
or seven persons from New-RocheUe and Frog's Neck, with
piteous applications for stolen goods and horses. Some of

Aged 22.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 143
these persons are of the most friendly families. I am morti
fied that not an officer on the ground has shown any activity
to detect the plunderers or their spoil. I have got three
horses, and a number of other articles, and have confined
two soldiers who had them in possession. But these are
petty rascals. I feel raore pity than indignation towards
them. They were honest men till debauched by this expe
dition. I believe sorae officers are concerned. If I can be
assured of that (and I shall spare no labour), you may depend
on seeing them with a file of men. The mUitia volunteers
exceUed in this business. If I detect them I shaU treat
them with the same rigour, unless you advise to the con
trary. I wish you would give me directions. I have at
least a fortnight's work before me to undo the doings of last
night. This day I enter on my comraand. Truly an ominous
comraenceraent. Is this the proraised protection? I read
in the face of every child I pass ; for the whole honour
of the expedition redounds to rae. But enough of this;
more perhaps than you will thank me for. Webbers was of
the party, and can give you a history. I now perceive from
whence arose the ardour for scouting. I suppose the ser
geants' parties of militia, when they join me, wiU be subject
to courts of the line. Your most obedient servant,
A. Burr.
FROM MAJOR PLATT, AID TO GENERAL m'dOUGALL.
Peekskill, January 14th, 1779.
Sir,
The general has received yours, and directs me to inform
you that such assistance will be granted as is necessary for
the protection of the country and your honour.
He desires that no expedition be set on foot till you hear
further from him. He has no objections to Colonel Little-
field's remaining with you tiU the arrival of more officers.

144 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 22.
Handcuffs wiU be sent you as soon as they can be made.
If you have a number of prisoners at any time to send up,
let thera be fastened right and left hands, and the guard cut
the strings of their breeches, and there wiU be no danger of
their making their escape, as they wiU be obUged to hold
them up continually with one hand.
Last evening Josiah Fowler made his escape from the -
provost ; possibly he may faU into the hands of your scouts
or patrols. If he does, please to take the best care of him.
The general will -write you fuUy by the captain who wUl
soon re-enforce you. One hundred pair of shoes wiU be sent
you. The map of the country is herewith transmitted, for
the purpose of taking a sketch of it. You wiU please to do
it as soon as possible, and send it up by a careful hand.
The general does not wish you ever to carry it from your
quarters. Your most obedient servant,
Richard Platt, Aid-de-camp.
FROM GENERAL M'dOUGALL.
Headquarters, Peekskill, January 15th, 1779.
My dear Sir,
Your favours of the llth and 12th, with their enclosures,
came duly to hand.
I am much mortified that Captain Brown should have
merited your putting him in an arrest. But you have done
your duty, for which accept my thanks.
If an officer comraanding an outpost will not be very vigi
lant, he exposes his party to be butchered, as the unfortu
nate Colonel Balor lately experienced.
I am very sorry the miUtia have conducted so disorderly ;
but I wish you to deal tenderly with them, as they are brave,
and are very sore, by the plundering of the tories. But
support the honour of our arms and your own, by giving
redress to the innocent and defenceless.
As the principal objects of your command are to protect

Aged 22.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 145
the good people of these states, and prevent supplies going
to the enemy, you will not send out any parties, or raake
any excursions, but what are necessary for intelligence, and
the preservation of your parties, tiU further orders. Your
own ideas on this subject fully meet my approbation. In
the meantime, let all the officers and men of your com
mand, who are unacquainted with the ground, traverse it
alternately, from flank to flank, and as raany railes in front
as you may judge necessary. The position of the whole I
leave to your own discretion, as circumstances shall arise.
A good captain, and twenty picked raen, of Nixon's, with
two drums, accorapany this, to re-enforce your left, and the
orders are despatched to Major ~Pawling for the officers you
wrote for. One hundred pair of shoes will be sent to you
by this snow.
Send up all Burgoyne's men, with a good corporal and
small party of the nine-months raen, with the first deserters
or prisoners. The sergeants' parties of the railitia who are
to join you, will, by their engageraents, be under the con
tinental articles of war. If any of the militia who may go
out on scouts or parties with yours will not submit to the
articles of war and your orders, don't suffer them to go with
them, nor to appropriate any plunder ; but order it to be
given to the continental troops, and those who shall submit
to those articles.
If any of the militia maraud, send them up to me, with a
guard. They must not be suffered to violate civil and mili
tary law. The legislature is the proper authority to enable
them to make reprisals. For whatever disorders they com
mit in front of your lines, will be placed by the enemy fo
your account.
In all doubtful questions which may arise on my orders
as to the limits or legality of plunder in your front, I author
ize you to he the sole judge. In the exercise of this trast,
it is my wish you should lean to the honour of our arms.
A surgeon is directed to attend your party ; when he
Vol. I.— T 7

146 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 22.
arrives, please to advise me of it, that I may be relieved
from all anxiety about you and your corps. If you are not
supplied with rum before a quantity of it arrives here, we
shall not forget you. If your horsemen are mounted and
appointed, as well as your horse-guides, they will receive
the same pay. If the oxen at Mr. Hunter's are not in work
ing order, put them in the care of your forage-master till
they are.
If you can get the articles taken from the inhabitants in
the late expedition restored, let the railitia off for that of
fence. When you get things in train, I flatter rayself you
will not have any future trouble with them. But the offi
cers of the regular troops must be rigorously dealt with, ac
cording to our martial law.
As you and the comraissary will be in the rear of the
whole, the nine-months men, worse shod than the other
troops-, may serve tiU I have more leisure to coraplete your
corps.
•* Don't omit sending to me all the newspapers you can pro
cure. I am so borne down with correspondence, that I can
only add that I am your affectionate hurable servant,
Alexander M'Dougall.
P. S. I fear the pickets from your parties are too far ad
vanced from them. The distance ought not to exceed half
a mile at night ; and the quarters of the pickets should be
changed every night after dark. Frequent patrols from
each give the best security.
I submit it to your consideration whether it would not be
of service to have a quantity of old rags collected at each
party and picket, for the patrols to rauffle their feet with in
frosty weather when there is no snow on the ground. It
will prevent their being heard by the enemy, and yours will
hear those of the enemy if there are any near them.
A. M'D.

Aged 22.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 147

CHAPTER X.
TO GENERAL MALCOLM.
White Plains, 21st January, 1779.
' Dear Sir,
Mr. Benjamin Sands, and three other persons from Long
Island, banished for malepractices, wait on you with this.
Benjamin Sands, jun. appears to be a man of good under
standing. He can give you a detail of their sufferings.
Captain Black and three subalterns of Malcolm's regiment
joined me yesterday.
WUUara Burtis goes under guard to you to-morrow. Also
a Garret Duyckraan, whora I took upon inforraation of Bur
tis. I knew of Burtis having drove cattle before the receipt
of your letter. Of his being a spy I know nothing. Burtis
wishes to procure favour by giving information. I enclose
his confession to me, that you may compare it with his story
to you. He has not told rae all he knows, I am convinced.
I can secure Elijah Purdy any time if you direct. There is
no danger in delaying till I can hear from you. I wish to
clear the country of these rascals. It would be pf infinite
service to hang a few up in this neighbourhood.
The two parties from Nixon's brigade, which came undei
sergeant's last week, are so distressed for clothes, that I am
obliged to send them to their regiments. They came pro
vided but for one week. Lieutenant Wottles marches them
up. I wish him to return with the re-enforcement. I have
sent the corporal and sixty-nine men to Bedford. I have
now about 170 privates. A single company, and twelve from
Hammond's regiment, join me to-day. That is his comple
ment. A commissary of hides at this place can fumish me with

148 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 22.
shoes as I want them, if you wiU give an order for that
purpose. He delivers none without a general order. I can
purchase ram here at twenty doUars per gaUon. There is
no commissary of purchases.
There are a number of women here of bad character,
who are continuaUy running to New-York and back again.
If they were men, I should flog them without mercy.
It was the indolence of the commissary, and not the real
scarcity of wheat, which alarmed me. I shall not trouble
you again on the score of flour. I send you two papers by
the sergeant Yours respectfully,
A. Burr.
FROM GENERAL- M'dOUGALL.
Peekskill, January 22, 1779.
Sir,
There are reasons, which I shall explain to you at a
proper tirae, why  should not be sought after. Meike
a great noise about him ; abuse him as the vilest of horse-
thieves, and a spy for the enemy ; but send no parties after
hira. If you are told where he is, turn off the matter by
some pretext or other. Don't carry this out on party, or
out of your quarters to any unsafe place.
Yours affectionately,
Alexander M'Dougall.
from william paterson.
January 27th.
I am at the Hermitage, my dear Burr, and cannot forbear
writing you a few lines, although I expected) before this time,
to have been favoured with a letter from you. Mrs. Pre
vost informs me that there is the most flattering prospect of
your soon being reinstated in your health. The inteUigence
gives rae real pleasure, and the raore so, because, until
Mrs. Prevost told me, I had no idea pf your disorder being

Aged 22.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 149
so rooted and dangerous. May health soon revisit you, my
good friend ; and when it does, may it continue with you for
years. I am pleased with the hope of seeing you in Jersey
early in the spring. I shaU be this way again in March,
when perhaps I shaU meet you at this place. I write this
standing in the midst of company. I am caUed off to
court, and therefore, for this time, adieu.
William Paterson.
FROM MAJOR PLATT, AID TO GENERAL M'dOUGALL.
Peeksltill, January 28th, 1779.
Sir,
Captain Wiley, of Leamed's brigade, will hand you this.
He brings with him forty men, I believe as good as any in
the army. 'Tis the general's intention that Nixon's, Pat
erson's, and the late Learned's brigades, shaU each furnish
a party of sixty. You will please, after selecting the best
men for your parties, to order all the rest (save your own
and comraissary's guard) to join their corps, as they com
plain the duty is hard above. Either Captain WiUiams or
Spur must leave you, as Captain Wiley will coramand the
party from Learned's. If there are three subs for each party
exclusive of those frora your own regiraent, you can detain
the whole of the subs of other brigades or not, as you like.
Kearsley has not yet joined. The general will review
all your letters in a day or two, and give thera full answers.
I ara your most obedient servant,
Richard Platt, Aid-de-camp.
TO GENERAL m'dOUGALL. White Plains, January 29th, 1779.
Dear Sir,
I had this day the favour of yours by Lieutenant Rost.
The same gentleman brought me a re-enforcement of
thirty-nine privates, and a proportion of officers. This en
ables me to send to camp a few of the worst provided of

150 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 22
the nine-months men. The returning party takes up the
prisoners mentioned in ray last, and a deserter. Two
more of MalcoUn's officers have joined me.
I enclose you a copy of a letter frora Colonel Holdridge.
The enterprise appears to m.e something romantic ; but I
have acquainted Colonel Holdridge of the steps I shall take
should it prove serious, and have appointed a place near
this to meet him, if he thinks it necessary. The number,
disposition, and apparent intentions of the eneray will point
out our duty. I am this evening told, by good authority,
that Emerick is re-enforced, either by volunteer or enlisted
refugees, to the araount of 4 or 500, and that there are
strong syraptoms of an excursion. I shall pay due atten
tion to these reports and authorities.
These two days past I have taken a particular view of
the country and roads from White Plains to Maraaroneck,
Rye, and Sawpits. I find it much easier protected, and
more secure, than the western part of this county. From
the Bronx to Maraaroneck river, through White Plains, is
three miles. There are very few fords or bridges on either
of those rivers. Might it not be of service to draw a line,
if but for a few days, from Bronx to Rye, or Maraaro
neck ? The Purchase would be certainly a ridiculous post.
The map is herewith sent. Lieutenant Chatbum, who
has business at West Point, will deliver this.
Yours respectfully,
A. Burr.
FROM GENERAL M DOUGALL.
Headquarters, Peekskill, 6th February, 1779.
My dear Sir,
I have devoted part of this night to review your letters,
and to give them some kind of answers. I can only men
tion ideas. I leave you to dilate them.
The bearer is one of the sentries who was partly the
occasion of the late misfortune. I have reproved them

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS or aaron burr. 151
severely, which I hope will have the desired effect. For
the future, order the sentry who does not fire the alarm one
hundred lashes, and the like number to any who shall part
with his arms without its being wrested from him 'by the
enemy ; and a reward of twenty dollars to any non-com
missioned officer or soldier who shall bring in such arms.
Publish this in orders.
I am fully sensible of your embarrassments and difficul
ties, for want of vigUant officers and discipUne. Be it your
honour to surmount them. Accept of my thanks for your
attention to the service. Order one pound and a half of
flour or bread, and the like quantity of meat, to each man,
till the first of April. The duty is hard, and exercise in
creases the appetite. WiU it not advance the service to
send you down some biscuit ? Give Comraissary Leake no
rest without vegetables. His guard wUl be relieved by a
militia one. How many sergeants' parties have you ? Your
guard and that of the commissary will be taken from the
brigades, as 120 from Paterson's is to 60 frora the others. In
returns, designate the strength frora each brigade. The re
giments whose men have no bayonets, some means will be
devised to furnish them. Heavy'packs should not be at the
stated quarters. Fix a day beforehand when you will hear
the coraplaints of the disaffected. If any come on other
days, give them thirty-nine lashes first ; wait the effects of
this discipline.
The oath of allegiance is no criterion of characters, nor
the want of a certificate thereof an evidence of a person's be
ing disaffected. Uniform character is the best rule to judge.
Send up under guard all women who stroll to New-York
without leave. But cause them to be weU searched by ma
trons for papers immediately when they are taken; hair,
caps, stays, and its lining, should be well examined. Do the
like to those going down. Send up the evidences against
Bettice. I approve your manner of treating Captain WiU
iams. I did not yet intend the hard money taken by him

152 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
should be distributed. But, if it is done, let it remain so.
In future, no hard money should be distributed. You wUl
see the use I intend it for in a few days. I ara sure it wUl
divert you. I hope soon to make up another party of sixty.
If Lieutenant Freeman is not returned to you, I shall send
for him. Are the wagons you mentioned some time ago re
turned ? What is becorae of the rifles ? I want thera much
for the servants who go out with me on horseback. All re
turning parties should raarch together till they arrive at the
cantonraent of the first corps, then with their respective offi
cers. This will prevent disorders.
After rain or snow, I wish you to inspect the arms, and
order them, in your presence, to discharge thera at a raark.
The few cartridges spent in this way will be well disposed
of. Colonel Putnara is marched to the mouth of Croton.
Greaton's, in two or three days, moves near Pine's bridge
on that river. I think the present scarcity of bread will
prevent a movement of the enemy with regular troops.
Major-general Putnara is right in having the railitia of
Fairfield ready, if it has not the effect on them, like that of
the boy and the wolf in the fable. If Ensign Leeland is
still on the lines, send hini' up as an evidence against Cap
tain Brown.
A sea-captain, who, with three others, raade their escape
from New-York the night of the 4th instant, says fourteen
sail of the Cork fleet had arrived last Smiday.
I ara your affectionate
Alexander M'Dougall.
FROM GENERAL M'dOUGALL.
Headquarters, Peekskill, 7th February, 1779.
My dear Sir,
I directed Major Platt, sorae days since, to inform you,
no provision of any kind should be suffered to go below you
till further orders. Please to announce this to the justices.
You have herewith a flag ; fill up the blank. On its return.

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 153
desire the officer to call at Colonel PhiUips's for any papers
or catalogues of books which may be left there for me.
The letter to Mr. Delancey to beJeft with the enemy's offi
cer on his advanced post. Cast your mind on the best
means of sweeping Westchester and West Farms of the
tories when it is good sledding, supposing two regiments to
cover you. But this under the rose.
Gonsalez Manuel, the bearer of this, brings with him
John Broughton, a prisoner of war, who is exchanged. You
will please to order hira kept at a convenient distance in the
rear till the flag goes in, when he is to be sent and delivered
to the coraraanding officer of the advanced post. A receipt
must be taken for him and transmitted to me.
Affectionately,
Alexander M'Dougall.
from major platt.
Peekskill, February 23d, 1779.
Dear Burr,
In yours of yesterday you requested particular care of
the enclosed, but there was none. Malcolm left this yester
day for Haverstraw. He intends, with Major Pawling, to
pay you a visit by water, and perhaps it will be to-day. I
think there is some probability of his relieving you. At any
rate, you will be relieved by the time you wish.
As the general writes fully by this conveyance, I shall
not be SO particular as I otherwise would. Cammell will
be down shortly to pay off accounts. One doUar per day is
aUowed for a saddle-horse. Your certificates to the Van
Warts wiU entitle them to their pay, be it what it raay.
The general has ordered WiUiaras and Wattles to retum
the hard money to him. It wiU be put in your hands.
Love to Roger, when he comes. Corapliraents to Malcolm's
lads and Benson. With singular affection,
R. Platt.
Vol. L— U T*

154 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
FROM GENERAL m'dOUGALL , .j,,.
Headquarters, 23d February, 1779.
My dear Sir,
Your several favours have been handed to me. I have
not time now to answer thera fully. It will, however, be
done by Major Hull, who is ordered down to assist you.
All your wishes will be gratified. One hundred and twenty
picked men, with bayonets, will reach you to-morrow.
Send your commissary up for rum. Let him call on me.
I ara yours, Alexander M'Dougall.
FROM GENERAL m'dOUGALL.
Headquarters, 15th February, 1779.
Sir,
Your favour of the 12th carae to hand with the prisoners.
I have long known Ackerly was up, and his business, but
did not think his present situation of sufficient importance
to have him taken by K. Mr. Platt will inforra you how
I intend to supply you with bayonets. He reached you,
I suppose, yesterday evening. I intend to send down the
reraains of Colonel Poor's regiment for a few days, to
cover a forage making by Mr. Hayes near Maraaroneck ;
and shall send by them public arras, with bayonets, to be ex
changed for yours which want thera. No good officer or
man now below with you raust be relieved till further or
ders. Give the officers of Poor's all the advice and assist
ance you can. The money taken from Ketor will be divi
ded among the officers and men in such manner as you
think proper. I shall send them down six for one when I
can raise cash. Greaton's is at Pine bridge. Nixon moves
in two days to support Putnam. The stated express is on
this side Croton, at his own house. His name is John
Cross, a refugee from New-York. Give me the eariiest ad
vice of any appearance of a movement of the enemy on the

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 155
river. Mrs. PoUock was detained with the late bad weather
two nights. She left this at eight this raorning.
I am, sir, yours, &c.,
Alexander M'Dougall.

FROM MAJOR PLATT, AID TO GENERAL M'dOUGALL.
Headquarters, 25th February, 1779.
Sir,
The general wishes you to detain the best officers and
men, for five complete parties of sixty: and, as soon as
Major Hull can be made acquainted with your posts, and
the nature of your coramand, he desires you will ride up to-
headquarters if there is no probability of a movement from
below, and he will concert with you such measures as shaU
be thought expedient.
The corabustible balls are not yet come to hand. Five
or six boxes of ammunition wiU be sent down to Tarrytown
by water the first opportunity. 'Tis necessary that Dr
Eustis, if not at the Plains, should be sent for.
I am your obedient servant,
Richard Platt, Aid-de-carap.
P. S. — Please to inform the general whether Colonel
Poor's men have accomplished the business they were sent
upon or not. FROM GENERAL m'DOUGALL.
Headquarters, Peekskill, 26th February, 1779.
Sir,
I received your letter of this day. Colonel Putnara is
ordered to march and join you, and to act as circumstances
shall cast up. Five boxes of araraunition are ordered to be
carried to you immediately from King's ferry, by water.
Leave a small party to receive it, and a cart to carry it
where you shall order it. As the strength of the enemy is
not mentioned, I can gi-ve no other orders.
Yours, &c.,
Alexander M'Dougall.

156 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
FROM GENERAL m'dOUGALL.
Headquarters, 27th February, 1779.
My dear Sir,
Your favour of yesterday reached me at 8 P. M. It
was immediately answered. Colonel Putnam was ordered
to march and join you ; he has taken Nixon's regiment with
him. Greaton's was put in motion at the same time, to
join the brigade, if the enemy did not continue to advance
in Connecticut. At half past ten of the same evening, five
boxes of ammunition was sent to you from King's ferry, by
water, with orders lo keep close in shore, for fear of acci
dents. I hope it has reached you. Your letter of this day,
at 7 A. M., came to hand an hour ago. From the reputed
strength of the enemy, I am pleased with your position. I
think it promises success and laurels. I hope Bearmore
will smart for his temerity. You are all too reraote from
me to render orders expedient. Circumstances must direct
your moveraents. If the eneray move, or appear in force
on the river, or a raoveraent on it in force should apparently
be iriterided, send up all Paterson's detachraents by forced
marchea.;';--I comrait you and your corps to the Lord of
Hosts. Greaton has four boxes of spare ammunition. He
wiU be on the North Castle road to the Plains.
Yours affectionately,
Alexander M'Dougall.
FROM general m'doUGALL.
Headquarters, Peekskill, 6th March, 1779.
Sir,
This will be delivered to you by Mr. John Pine, who
acted last carapaign as a horse-guide. He is a true friend
to the country. Whenever he shall get properly mounted,
and reports himself to you for service, give him a certfficate
of the day, and employ him.
Enclosed you have a list of horse-thieves and others who

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 157
act very prejudicial to our cause. I wish to have them
taken and sent up here. Perhaps it wiU be most eligible
to make the attempt on aU at the same time. But I do not
wish to retard the forage on your left, as those posts are in
great want of that article.
I am, sir, your humble servant,
Alexander M'Dougall.
from general PUTNAM.
Camp, Horse Neck, 9th March, 1779.
Sir,
I have received a letter from Colonel Emerick (British),
informing me that one Butler, who has been a prisoner in
New-York, being unable to travel on foot, obtained of Colo
nel Emerick a dragoon and two horses to conduct him some
part of his way in the country. That Butler raade the dra
goon drunk, then brought him off, together with the horses.
The whole of which he, in his letter, makes a demand to be
retumed. Colonel Emerick has been misinformed as to Butler's
acting so faithless. The truth of the matter is, that Butler
wanted the dragoon to return with the horses, but that he
(the dragoon) refused to do, and swore he would never re
turn. I would advise you by all means to send the dragoon
to Colonel Emerick in irons, together with the horses, as a
refusal would be contrary to all public faith. ,
I am, with the greatest respect,
Israel Putnam.
FROM GENERAL m'dOUGALL.
Headquarters, Peekskill, llth March, 1779.
Sir,
Yours of the 9th has reached rae. If the raiUtia of Colo
nel Drake's are good men, arm them of General Paterson's,
and I wiU replace them to him. Take the receipts of every
man who shall be armed by the public, and send them to
me.

158 MEMOlilS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
The old general is not a civilian. Send Colonel Emerick
the enclosed copy of the horseman's deposition. Stop no
provisions, when sraall quantities answer for the purpose
of  . The plunderers will be punished on the lines, but
tried here. The naraes of the witnesses are wanting.
What you wrote for, to answer certain purposes, shall be
collected as soon as possible.
Give me the true history of the facts relative to the mare
sold by Wattles. He quibbles. Did he know the printed
orders ? — was she sold conformable ? The paymasters will
be ordered down, and soap shall be sent.
In haste, yours, &c.,
Alexander M'Dougall.
The preceding correspondence is evidence of the military
character of Colonel Burr, and his standing with General
M'Dougall. Although his rank was oiJy that of a lieutenant-
colonel, yet he was constantly in the actual comraand of a
regiment, and frequently of a brigade. His seniors were
withdrawn from the post (which was generally a post of
danger) where he was stationed ; or detachments were
taken from different regiments so as to make up for him a
separate and independent command. No raan had a better
opportunity than Samuel Young, Esq., of knowing Colonel
Burr's habits and conduct while stationed in Westchester.
Mr. Young was at one time a member of the state legisla
ture, and for many years surrogate of the county. The
following letter contains some interesting details.
SAMUEL young TO COMMODORE VALENTINE MORRIS.
Mount Pleasant (Westchester), 25th January, 1814.
Dear Sir,
Your letter of the 30th ultimo, asking for some account
of the campaign in which I served, under the command of
Colonel Burr, during the revolutionary war, was received
sorae days ago, and has been constantly in my mind. I

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 159
will reply to it with pleasure, but the compass of a letter
will not adrait of rauch detail.
I resided in the lines from the commencement of the
revolution until the winter of the year 1780, when ray
father's house was burnt, by order of the British general.
The county of Westchester, very soon after the coraraence
ment of hostilities, becarae, on account of its exposed
situation, a scene of deepest distress. Frora the Croton to
Kingsbridge, every species of rapine and lawless violence
prevailed. No man went to his bed but under the appre
hension of having his house plundered or burnt, or him
self or family massacred, before morning. Some, under
the character of whigs, plundered the tories ; while others,
of the latter description, plundered the whigs. Parties of
marauders, assuming either character or none, as suited
their convenience, indiscriminately assailed both whigs and
tories. So little vigilance was used on our part, that emis
saries and spies of the enemy passed and repassed without
interruption. These calamities continued undiminished until the arri
val of Colonel Burr, in the autumn of the year 1778. He
took comraand of the sarae troops which his predecessor.
Colonel Littlefield, comraanded. At the raoraent of Col
onel Burr's arrival. Colonel Littlefield* had returned from a
plundering expedition (for to plunder those called tories
was then deemed lawful), and had brought up horses, cat
tle, bedding, clothing, and other articles of easy transporta
tion, which he had proposed to distribute among the party
the next day. Colonel Burr's first act of authority was to
seize and secure all this plunder ; and he immediately took
measures for restoring it to the owners. This gave us
much trouble, but it was abundantly repaid by the confi
dence it inspired.
He then made known his determination to suppress plun-
* See page 142.

160 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
dering. The same day he visited all the guards ; chan
ged their position ; dismissed some of the officers, whom
he found totaUy incompetent ; gave new instructions. On
the same day, also, he commenced a register of the names
and characters of all who resided near and below his guards .
Distinguished by secret raarks the whig, the timid whig,
the tory, the horse-thief, and those concerned in, or suspect
ed of, giving information to the enemy. He also began a
map of the country, in the vicinity of the fort ; of the roads,
by-roads, paths, creeks, morasses, &c., which raight become
hiding-places for the disaffected or for marauding parties.
This map was made by Colonel Burr himself, from such
materials as he could coUect on the spot, but principaUy
from his own observation.
He raised and established a corps of horsemen from
araong the respectable farraers and young raen of the coun
try, of tried patriotisra, fidelity, and courage. These also
served as aids and confidential persons for the transraission
of orders. To this corps I attached rayself as a volunteer,
but did not receive pay. He employed discreet and faith
ful persons, living near the eneray's lines, to watch their
motions, and give him immediate inteUigence. He era
ployed raounted videttes for the same purpose, directing
two of them to proceed together, so that one raight be de
spatched, if necessary, with inforraation to the colonel, while
the other might watch the enemy's movement. He estab
lished signals throughout the lines, so that, whether by
night or by day, instant notice could be had of an attack or
movement of the enemy. He enforced various regulations
for concealing his positions and force from the enemy.
The laxity of discipline which had before prevailed en
abled the enemy frequently to employ their emissaries to
come within the lines, and to learn the precise state of our
forces, supplies, &c. Colonel Burr soon put an end to
these dangerous intrusions, by prohibiting all persons resi
ding below the lines, except a few whom he selected, such

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. lei
as Parson Bartow, Jacob Smith, and others, whose integ
rity was unimpeachable, from approaching the outposts,
without special permission for the purpose. If any one had
a complaint or request to make of the colonel, he procured
one or more of the persons he had selected to come to his
quarters on his behalf. This measure prevented frivolous
and vexatious applications, and the still more dangerous ap
proach of enemies in disguise. All these raeasures were
entirely new ; and, within eight or ten days, the whole sys
tem appeared to be in complete operation, and the face of
things was totally changed.
A few days after the colonel's arrival, the house of one
Gedney was plundered in the night, and the family abused
and terrified. Gedney sent his son to raake a representa
tion of it to the colonel. The young raan, not regarding the
orders which had been issued, carae to the colonel's quar
ters, undiscovered by the sentinels, having taken a secret
path through the fields for the purpose. For this violation
of orders the young raan was punished. The colonel imme
diately took raeasures for the detection of the plunderers ;
and though they were all disguised, and wholly unknown to
Gedney, yet Colonel Burr, by raeans which were never yet
disclosed, discovered the plmiderers, and had thera all secured
within twenty-four hours. Gedney's faraily, on reference to
his register, appeared to be tories ; but Burr had promised
that every quiet man should be protected.
He caused the robbers to be conveyed to Gedney's house,
under the charge of Captain Benson, there to restore the
booty they had taken, to make reparation in raoney for
such articles as were lost or daraaged, and for the alarra and
abuse, the amount of which the colonel assessed, to be
flogged ten lashes, and to ask pardon of the old man ; all
which was faithfully and iraraediately executed.
These measures gave universal satisfaction, and the ter
ror they inspired effectuaUy prevented a repetition of simi
lar depredations. From this day plundering ceased. No
Vol. I.— X

162 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
further instance occurred during the tirae of Colonel Burr's
command, for it was universally believed that Colonel Burr
could tell a robber by looking in his face, or that he had su
pernatural means of discovering crime. Indeed, I was my
self inclined to these opinions. This behef was confirraed
by another circurastance which had previously occurred.
On the day of his arrival, after our return from visiting the
posts, conversing witb several of his attendants, and, araong
others. Lieutenant Drake, whom Burr had brought with him
from his own regiment, he said, " Drake, that post on the
North river wUl be attacked before morning ; neither offi
cers nor men know any thing of their duty ; you must go and
take charge of it ; keep your eyes open, or you will have
your throat cut." Drake went. The post was attacked
that night by a company of horse. They were repulsed
with loss. Drake returned in the morning with trophies of
war, and told his story. We stared, and asked one another
, — How could Burr know that ? He had not then established
any means of intelligence.
The raeasures immediately adopted by him were such
that it was impossible for the enemy to have passed their
own lines without his having iraraediate kno-wledge ; and it
was these very raeasures which saved Major Hull, on whom
the command devolved for a short time, when the state of
Colonel Burr's health compelled him to retire.
These raeasures, together with the deportment of Colonel
Burr, gained him the love and veneration of all devoted to
the coraraon cause, and conciliated even its bitterest foes.
His habits -were a subject of adrairation. His diet was sim
ple and spare in the extreme. Seldom sleeping more than
an hour at a time, and without taking off his clothes, or even
his boots.
Between midnight and two o'clock in the morning, ac
companied by two or three of his corps of horsemen, he vis
ited the quarters of all his captains, and their picket-guards,
changing his route from time to time to prevent notice of

Aged 23.J MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 163
his approach. You may judge of the severity of this duty,
when I assure you that the distance which he thus rode
every night must have been frora sixteen to twenty-four
miles ; and that, with the exception of two nights only, in
which he was otherwise engaged, he never omitted these ex
cursions, even in the severest and most stormy weather ; and,
except the short tirae necessarily consum.ed in hearing and
answering complaints and petitions frora persons both above
and below the Unes, Colonel Burr was constantly with the
troops. He attended to the minutest article of their comfort; to
their lodgings ; to their diet : for those off duty he invented
sports, aU tending to sorae useful end. During two or three
weeks after the colonel's arrival, we had raany sharp con
flicts with the robbers and horse-thieves, who were hunted
down with unceasing industry. In raany instances vve en
countered great superiority of nurabers, but always with
success. Many of them were killed, and many were taken.
The strictest discipline prevailed, and the army felt the
fullest confidence in their commander and in themselves,
and by these means became really forraidable to the enemy.
During the same winter. Governor Tryon planned an expe
dition to Horse Neck, for the purpose of destroying the salt
works erected there, and marched wUh about 2000 raen.
Colonel Burr received early inforraation of their raoveraents,
and sent word to General Putnara to hold the eneray at bay
for a few hours, and he (Colonel Burr) would be in their
rear and be answerable for thera. By a raessenger from
him. Colonel Burr was inforraed by that general that he had
been obliged to retreat, and that the enemy were advancing
into Connecticut. This inforraation, which unfortunately was
not correct, altered Colonel Burr's route towards Maraaro
neck, which enabled Tryon to get the start of him. Colonel
Burr then endeavoured to interrupt him in Eastchester, ac
cording to his first plan, and actually got within cannon-shot
of him ; but Tryon ran too fast, and in his haste left most or

164 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
all of his cattle and plunder behind him, and many stragglers,
who were picked up.
I wiU raention another enterprise, which proved more suc
cessful, though equally hazardous. Soon after Tryon's re
treat. Colonel Delancey, who commanded the British refu
gees, in order to secure theraselves against surprise, erected
a block-house on a rising ground below Delancey's bridge.
This Colonel Burr resolved to destroy. I was in that expe
dition, and recollect the circurastances.
He procured a number of hand-grenades, also rolls of
port-fire, and canteens filled with inflamraable raaterials, with
contrivances to attach thera to the side of the block-house.
He set out with his troops early in the evening, and eirrived
within a raile of the block-house by two o'clock in the
morning. The colonel gave Captain Black the coraraand
of about forty volunteers, who were first to approach.
Twenty of thera were to carry the port-fires, &c., &c.
Those who had hand-grenades had short ladders to enable
thera to reach the port-holes, the exact height of which
Colonel Burr had ascertained. Colonel Burr gave Captain
Black his instmctions, in the hearing of his company, as
suring him of his protection if they were attacked by su
perior nurabers ; for it was expected that the enemy, who
had several thousand men at and near Kingsbridge, would
endeavoiir to cut us off, as we were several miles below
them. Burr directed those who carried the combustibles
to march in front as sUently as possible. That, on being
hailed, they should light the hand-grenades, &c., with a slow
match provided for the purpose, and throw them into the
port-holes.. I was one of the party that advanced. The
sentinel hailed and fired. We rushed on. The first hand-
grenade that was thrown in drove the enemy from the upper
story, and before they could take any measure to defend it,
the block-house was on fire in several places. Sorae few
escaped, and the rest surrendered without our having lost a
single raan. Though many shot were fired at us, we did
not fire a gun.

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 166
During the period of Colonel Burr's coinmand, but two
attempts were made by the eneray to surprise our guards,
in both of which they were defeated.
After Colonel Burr left this comraand. Colonel Thomp
son, a man of approved bravery, assumed it, and the enemy,
in open day, advanced to his headquarters, took Colonel
Thompson, and took or killed all his raen, with the excep
tion of about thirty.
My father's house, with all his outhouses, were burnt.
After these disasters our troops never made an effort to pro
tect that part of the country. The American lines were
afterwards changed, and extended frora Bedford to Croton
bridge, and from there, foUo-wing the course of that river, to
the Hudson. All the interraediate country was abandoned
and unprotected, being about twenty railes in the rear of the
ground which Colonel Burr had maintained.
The year after the defeat of Colonel Thompson, Colonel
Green, a brave, and in raany respects a valuable officer, took
the command, making his headquarters at Danford's, about
a mile above the Croton. This position was well chosen.
But Colonel Green oraitted to inforra hiraself of the move
ments of the enemy, and consequently was surprised.
Hiraself, Major Flagg, and other officers were killed, and a
great part of the raen were either killed or taken prisoners :
yet these officers had the full benefit of Colonel Burr's sys
tem. Having perused what I have written, it does not appear
to me that I have conveyed any adequate idea of Burr's
mUitary character. It may be aided a little by reviewing
the effects he produced. The troops of which he took cora^
mand were, at the time he took the command, undisciplined,
negligent, and discontented. Desertions were frequent. In
a few days these very men were transformed into brave and
honest defenders; orderly, contented, and cheerful; con
fident in their own courage, and loving to adoration their
commander, whom every man considered as his personal

166 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
friend. It was thought a severe punishment, as well as dis
grace, to be sent up to the camp, where they had nothing to
do but to lounge and eat their rations.
During the whole of this coramand there was not a single
desertion. Not a single death by sickness. Not one made
prisoner by the enemy ; for Burr had taught us that a sol
dier with arms in his hand ought never, under any circum
stances, to surrender ; no raatter if he was opposed to thou
sands, it was his duty to fight,,
After the first ten days there was not a single instance of
robbery. The whole country, under his coramand, enjoyed
security. The inhabitants, to express their gratitude, fre
quently brought presents of such articles as the country
afforded ; but Colonel Burr would accept no present. He
fixed reasonable prices, and paid in cash for every thing
that was received, and soraetiraes, I know, that these pay
ments were made with his own money. Whether these
advances were repaid, I know not.
Colonel Simcoe, one of the most daring and active parti
sans in the British army, was, with Colonels Emerick and
Delancey, opposed to Burr on the Unes, yet they were com
pletely held in check.
But perhaps the highest eulogy on Colonel Burr is, that
no man could be found capable of executing his plans,
though the example was before them.
When Burr left the lines a sadness overspread the coun
try, and the raost gloomy forebodings were too soon fulfilled,
as you have seen above.
The period of Colonel Burr's coramand was so full of ac
tivity and of incident, that every day afforded some new
lesson of instmction. But you will expect only a general
outline, and this faint one is the best in my power to give.
With esteem, yours,
Samuel Young.

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 167

CHAPTER XI. «
The military career of Colonel Burr was now drawing
to a close. The state of his health became alarming. His
constitution was shattered. His raedical and other friends
were of the opinion that he was incapable of enduring the
fatigues of another carapaign. In the judgment and talents
of Dr. Eustis he reposed great confidence. That gentle
man pressed upon him, in a manner the most affectionate,
the necessity for his retiring. The sacrifice required of
Burr was inconceivably great. All his views and feelings
were railitary. He seemed as though he was bom a soldier\
He was ambitious of fame in his profession. He had ac
quired a character for vigilance and intrepidity unrivalled in
the array. He was more than respected by his brother offi
cers, and idolized by the troops. As a man and a citizen,
he was exceedingly disliked by General Washington.
Causes, unnecessary to exaraine at this late period of tirae,
had created between these gentlemen feelings of hostility
that were unconquerable, and were never softened or molli
fied. Yet even General Washington, while he considered
Burr destitute of morals and of principle, respected him as
a soldier, and gave repeated evidence of entire confidence
in his gallantry, his persevering industry, his judgment, and
his discretion. At length, however, protracted disease com
pelled him to abandon all those hopes of glory, nobly won
in the battle-field, which had inflamed his ardent and youth
ful mind; and on the 10th of March, 1779, he tendered to
the commander-in-chief his resignation.

168 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23.

TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Phillipsburgh, 10th March, 1779.
Sir,
The reasons I did myself the honour to mention to your
excellency in a letter of Septeraber last still exist, and de
terraine rae to resign ray rank and coramand in the army.
The polite indulgence you favoured me with at that time
restored temporarily ray health. At the instance of Gen
eral M'Dougall, I accepted the coramand of these posts ;
but I find my health unequal to the undertaking, and have
acquainted him of my intentions to retire. He has ordered
an officer to reUeve me before the 15th of March, on which
day I purpose to leave this command emd the army.
Very respectfully,
A. Burr.
FROM GENERAL WASHINGTON.
Middlebrook, 3d April, 1779.
Sir,
I have to acknowledge your favour of the 10th ultimo.
Perfectly satisfied that no consideration save a desire to re
establish your health could induce you to leave the service, I
cannot therefore withhold my consent. But, in giving per
mission to your retiring from the array, I am not only to re
gret the loss of a good officer, but the cause which makes
his resignation necessary. When it is convenient to trans
mit the settlement of your public accounts, it will receive
my final acceptance.
I am, &c.,
George Washington.
A few days previous to Colonel Burr's resignation of his
commission, he received from the widow of General Mont
gomery the following letter : —

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 169

FROM MRS. J. MONTGOMERY. Rhinebeck, 7th March, 1779.
Sir,
I should before this have answered your obliging letter,
had not the marriage of my eldest sister entirely taken up
my time. I now return you, sir, many thanks for your kind
offers of service. The sincerity with which they were
made would have allowed me to accept them, without fears
of giving you trouble, had I not determined to ran no more
risks, as I have been very unfortunate in ray ventures that
way. You have awakened all my sensibUity by the praises you
bestow on my unfortunate general. He was, indeed, an
angel sent us for a moraent. Alas ! for me, that this world
was not more worthy of him — then had I still been the hap
piest of women, and his friends in stations more equal to
their own merits. Reflections like these imbitter continu
ally each day as it passes. But I trust in the sarae merci
ful Hand which has held me from sinking in my extreme
calamity, that he will still support and make me worthy of
a blessed meeting hereafter. Can you excuse, sir, the over
flowing of a heart that knows not where to stop when on a
subject so interesting ?
Mr. Tutard tells me you mean to quit the service. When
ever that happens, you will doubtless have leisure to pay us
a visit, which I wish you to believe will give real pleasure to.
Sir, your obliged
J. Montgomery.
FROM WILLIAM PATERSON.
The Ponds, 18th March, 1779.
My dear Burr,
I came to this place yesterday in the afternoon, and re
gret extremely that I did not arrive earlier in the day, as I
should have received your letter. My stay here wiU be un-
VoL. I.— Y 8

170 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 28
certain. At home I must be by the beginning of April. I
should be happy in seeing you before my return, but how to
effect it is the question. If I could possibly disengage my
self from business, I would take a ride to Paramus. My
best respects await on Mrs. Prevost; and every thing you
think proper to the mistress of your affections.
I am married, Burr, and happy. May you be equally so.
I cannot forra a higher or abetter wish. You know I should
rejoice to raeet you. TeU Mrs. Prevost that I shall take it
unkindly if she does not call upon rae whenever she thinks
I can be of any service to her. To oblige her will give me
pleasure for her own sake, and double pleasure for yours.
This is a strange, unconnected scroll ; you have it as it
comes. I congratulate you on your return to civil life, for which
(I cannot forbear the thought) we must thank a certain lady
not far from Paramus. May I have occasion soon to thank
her on another account ; and raay I congratulate you both
in the course of the next moon for being in my line : I
mean the married. Adieu.
I am most sincerely yours,
William Paterson.
FROM GENERAL M'doUGALL.
Headquarters, Peekskill, 20th March, 1779.
Sir,
My late intelligence frora New- York and headquarters
clearly mark the enemy's intention to make a movement very
soon. Whether it is intended against the grand array, these
posts, or New-London, tirae only can determine. It is,
however, our duty to be prepared. As a few days wiU open
up his views, I imagine you do not think of quitting the
ground when business is to be done. Should the enemy
move up the river in force, his thieves wiU be very busy
below. Colonel Hammond's regiment, on such an event, is
to remain there ; and one hundred rank and file of continental

Aged 23.] Memoirs of aaron burr. 171
troops only are to keep them in countenance. The rest,
under charge of officers, to be sent up to join their corps.
You know the state of forage at this post. I wish you
would make an exertion to your left in front, to secure all
you can for us ; as much as will consist with the safety of
your party, and covering to the rebels at Tarrytown. Send
for Haynes and his assistant, and keep them on the ground
till they secure all that is practicable to be got frora your
left. The weather has been so stormy and uncertain, the
 are not yet sent for. To-morrow morning it will be
done. Please to attend to the enclosed -order respecting
provisions. Late Learned's is raoved to West Point.
Major Hull's, of the 19th, is this raoraent received, and will
be attended to. I wish Captain Kearsley, Lieutenants
Hunter and Lawrence, to be sent to their regiments when
Colonel Burr has finished what he intends. They are much
wanted. Note the contents of the enclosed resolve.
Yours, very respectfully, Alexander M'Dougall.
It has been seen that Colonel Burr, while he commanded
at White Plains, on the frontier, not only kept the adjacent
country in a state of security, but that he kept the enemy in
complete check. He was succeeded in his command by
Colonel Littlefield, who was soon captured, and the post
abandoned. Major Hull, in a letter to Colonel Burr, dated
the 29th of May, 1779, says, " The ground you so long de
fended is now left to the depredations of the enemy, and
our friends in distressing circumstances."
In the beginning of June, Sir Henry Clinton captured the
forts at Stony Point and Verplanck's Point, and threatened
West Point. His force in this direction was upwards of
six thousand rank and file. The coraraunication between
General Washington, who was in New-Jersey, and General
M'DougaU, who was at Newburgh, was greatly embarrassed.
Bandits were placed by the British in or near the passes

172 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
through the chains of mountains leading to Sussex, for the
purpose of capturing the expresses charged with despatches.
At this critical moment Colonel Burr was on a visit to
M'Dougall, who informed him that he had made various un-
succ6'ssful attempts to comraunicate with Washington, and
that his expresses had either been captured or had de
serted. After apologizing to Burr, who was no longer in
active service, the general stated the iraportance of the
coraraander-in-chief 's knowing the position and movements
of^the enemy, as well as the state of the American army.
He then very courteously requested Burr to be the bearer of
a verbal coraraunication to Washington on the subject. To
this, notwithstanding his ill health and the danger of the en
terprise, he assented. The raission was undertaken and
succeeded. He was also charged at the same time with
verbal orders from General St. Clair, of a confidenticd char
acter, to officers commanding at different posts.
To whom it may concern : —
Colonel Burr, being on urgent public business, is to be put
across the ferry to New-Windsor without delay. Given
this second daj of June, 1779.
Alexander M'Dougall, Major-general.
To whom it may concern : —
Colonel Burr, being on very pressing public business,
every magistrate will assist him in changing horses, and all
friends of the country will also assist him. June 2d, 1779.
Alexander M'Dougall, Major-general.
To whom it may concern : —
Colonel Burr, being on urgent public business, must be
put across the ferry to Fishkill landing without a moment's
delay. Given at Pompton, 3d June, 1779.
Arthur St. Clair, Major-general.

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 173
To whom it may concern : —
The quartermaster and commissary, at Newburgh or
New- Windsor, wiU receive and observe, as my orders, the
verbal directions given by Colonel Burr. Given at Pomp
ton, 3d June, 1779. Arthur St. Clair, Major-general.
On this enterprise a most amusing incident occurred.
Colonel Burr arrived at the iron-works of the elder Towns-
end, in Orange county, with a tired and worn-out horse.
No other could be obtained ; but, after some detention, a
half-broken mule, named Independence, was procured, and
the colonel raounted. But Independence refused to obey
orders, and a battle ensued. The mule ran off with his
rider, and ascended a high bank, on the side of which stood
a coal-house, filled with coal through an aperture in the
top. At length. Independence, in the hope of clearing him
self of his encumbrance, entered the coal-house at full
speed, the colonel firmly keeping his seat, and both came
down an inclined plane of coal, not less than thirty feet in
height. On reaching the ground without injury. Burr hired
a raan to lead the animal a mile or two, and then again
raounted him and pursued his journey. This scene was
exhibited on a hot day in the month of June, araid a cloud
of coal-dust. The anecdote Burr occasionally repeated to
his friends, and sorae of the younger branches of the Towns-
end family.
About the first of July, 1779, Colonel Burr, then in fee
ble health, visited his friends in Connecticut. He was at
New-Haven when, on the 5th of July, the British landed,
with 2600 men, in two divisions ; one under Governor
Tryon, at East Haven, and the other under Garth, at West
Haven. At East Haven, where Tryon commanded, great
excesses were coraraitted, and the town set on fire. Col-_
onel Burr was at this moment confined to his bed ;
on hearing that the enemy were advancing, rose and

uoi-
; bu^
d pr*-

174 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23
ceeded to a part of the town where a number of persons
had collected. He volunteered to take comraaiid of the
militia, and made an unsuccessful attempt to rally them.
At this moraent he was informed that the students had or
ganized themselves, and were drawn up in the college-yard.
He immediately galloped to the ground, and addressed
them ; appeaUng, in a few words, to their patriotism and
love of country ; imploring them to set the exaraple, and
march out in the defence of those rights which would, at
a future day, becorae their inheritance. All he asked was,
that they would receive and follow hira as their leader.
The military character of Colonel Burr was known to the
students. They confided in his intrepidity, experience, and
judgment. In their ranks there was no faltering. They
proraptly obeyed the suramons, and volunteered. Some
skirraishing soon ensued, and portions of the militia united
with thera. The British, ignorant of the force that raight
be presented, retired ; but shortly returned, with several
pieces of artiUery, when a cannonading coraraenced, and
the boys retreated in good order. An American historian
says, — " The British entered the town after being much
galled and harassed." The slight check which they thus
received afforded an opportunity for the removal of some
valuables, and many of the womerfiand children.
Trifling and uniraportant as this skirmishing appears to
have been. Colonel Burr never referred to the incident but
with exultation and pride. Perhaps no event in his military
/life has, he more frequently mentioned. The confidence
evinced by these young men he considered complimentary
to hiraself as a soldier ; and usually alluded to the circum
stance as evidence of the effect which the character of an
officer would ever have upon undisciplined raen, when
called to comraand them upon trying occasions.
The foUowing letter, written by Colonel Platt, will close
all that is intended to be said of Colonel Burr as a soldier.
More space has been occupied withan account^of.

Aged 23] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 175
tary characterjhan would have been thus oncvipierl^ if it
was not known that he felt proudof his owncareeFaran
^fl^cei. — For bistnyy Mr Burr_entertaine(nrffleat~contem]^^^
He confided but little in^ its detaUs. These~prejudrces'
vyere__probably strengthened bylhe^consideratinnrthar jus '
^tice, in his opinion, hadnoTbeen dorie~t(riimiself. ' ' "'
COLONEL RICHARD PLATT TO COMMODORE VALENTINE
MORRIS. New- York, January 27th, 1814.
Dear Sir,
In reply to yours of the 20th of Noveraber last, request
ing to be informed what was the reputation and services of
Colonel Burr during the revolutionary war? I give you
the foUowing detail of facts, which you may rely on. No
man was better acquainted with him, and his military oper
ations, than your humble servant, who served in that war
from the 28th of June, 1775, tiU the evacuation of our capi-^
tal on the memorable 25th of November, 1783 ; havings
passed through the grades of lieutenant,' captain, major,
major of brigade, aid-de-camp, deputy adjutant-general,
and deputy quartermaster-general ; the last of which by
selection and recomraendation of Generals Greene, M'Dou
gall, and Knox, in the raost trying crisis of the revolution,
viz., the year 1780, when the continental raoney ceased to
pass, and there was no other fiscal resources during that
carapaign but what resulted frora the creative genius of
Tiraothy Pickering, at that crisis appointed successor to
General Greene, the second officer of the Araerican army,
who resigned the department because there was no raoney
in the national coffers to carry it through the carapaign,
declaring that he could not, and would not attempt it, with
out adequate resources, such as he abounded in during the
term of nearly three years antecedently as quartermaster-
general. In addition to the foregoing, by way of elucidation, it is

176 MEMOIRS or AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
to be understood by you, that so early as from the latter
part of the year 1776, I was always attached to a com
manding general ; and, in consequence, my knowledge of
the officers and their merits was more general than that of
almost any other in service. My operations were upon the
extended scale, from the remotest parts of Canada, wher
ever the American standard had waved, to the splendid
theatre of Yorktown, when and where I was adjutant-gen
eral to the chosen troops of the northem array.
At the comraenceraent of the revolution. Colonel Burr,
then about eighteen years of age, at the first sound of the
trump of war (as if bred in the carap of the great Frederick,
whose maxim was " to hold his array always in readiness
to break a lance with, or throw a dart against, any assail
ant"), quit his professional studies, and rushed to the camp
of General Washington, at Cambridge, as a volunteer ;
from which he went with Colonel Arnold on his daring
enterprise against Quebec, through the wilds of Canada
(which vied with Hannibal's march over the Alps), during
which toilsome and hazardous march he attracted the atten
tion and admiration of his commander so much, that he
(Arnold) sent him alone to raeet and hurry down General
Montgomery's array frora Montreal to his assistance; and
recommended him to that general, who appointed him an
aid-de-camp, in which capacity he acted during the winter,
till the fatal assault on Quebec, in which that gallant gen
eral, his aid McPherson, and Captain Cheeseman, com
manding the forlorn hope, fell. He afterwards continued
as aid to Amold, the survivor in comraand.
^ Here I raust begin to draw some of the outlines of his
genius and valour, which, like those of the British immor
tal; Wolf, who, at the age of twenty-four, and only major of
the 20th regiment, serving on the continent, gave such
specimens of genius and talents as to evince his being
destined for command.
. At the perilous moment of Montgomery's death, when dis-

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS dp aaron burr. 177
may and consternation universally prevailed, and the column
halted, he aniraated the troops, and raade many efforts to lead
them on ; and stimulated them to enter the lower town ; and
might have succeeded, but for the positive orders of Colonel
Donald Campbell, the commanding officer, for the troops to
retreat. Had his plan been carried into effect, it might
have saved Arnold's division frora capture, which had, after
our retreat, to contend with all the British force instead of a
part. On this occasion I coraraanded the first company in
the first New- York regiment, at the head of Montgomery's
column, so that I speak from ocular demonstration.
The next campaign, 1776, Colonel Burr was appointed
aid-de-camp to Maj6r-general Putnam, second in comraand
under General Washington at New-York; and frora ray
knowledge of that general's qualities and the colonel's, I am
very certain that the latter directed all the moveraents and
operations of the forraer.
In January, 1777, the continental establishment for the
war commenced. Then Colonel Burr was appointed by
General Washington a lieutenant-colonel iii Malcolm's regi
irient, in which he continued to serve until April, 1779,
when the ill state of his health obUged him to retire from
active service, to the regret of General M'Dougall, com
manding the departraent, and that of the comraander-in-
chief, who offered to give him a furlough for any length of ._
tirae, and to get permission from the British general in
New- York for him to go to Bermuda for his health. This
item will show his value in the estiraation of Generals
Washington and M'Dougall.
During the campaign of 1777, Malcolra's regiment was
with the main army, and commanded by Lieutenant-colonel
Burr. For discipline, order, and system, it was not sur
passed by any in the service ; and could his (the Ueutenant-
colonel's) and Wolfe's orderly-books be produced, they
would be very simUar in point of mUitary policy aiid in
structions, and fit models for all regiments.
Vol. I.— Z 8*

178 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
This regiment was also hutted at the VaUey Forge in 1777
and winter of 1778, under General Washington, and com
posed part of his army at the battle of Monmouth on the
28th of June, 1778, and continued with it tiU the close of
the campaign of that year, at which time it was placed in
garrison at West Point by General Gates ; but, upon Gen
eral M'Dougall's assuming the coraraand of the posts in the
highlands in December, Malcolm's, Spencer's, and Patten's
regiments were together ordered to Haverstraw. The three
colonels were pe/mitted to go home for the winter on fur
lough, and Lieutenant-colonel Burr had the command of the
whole brigade, at a very important advanced post.
At this period General M'Dougall ordered a detachment
of about three hundred troops, under the command of Lieu
tenant-colonel Littlefield, of the Massachusetts line, to guard
the lines in Westchester county, then extending from Tarry
town to White Plains, and from thence to Maraaroneck or
Sawpits, which last extension was guarded by Coimecticut
troops frora Major-general Putnam's division.
In this situation of affairs a very singular occurrence pre
sented, viz., that neither Lieutenant-colonel Littlefield, nor
any other of his grade, in the two entire brigades of Massa
chusetts troops composing the garrison of West Point, from
which the "lines were to be relieved, was competent, in the
general's estimation, to give security to the army above and
the lines of those below ; and, in consequence, he was com
pelled to call Colonel Burr frora his station at Haverstraw
to the more important comraand of the lines in Westchester,
in which raeasure, unprecedented as it was, the officers ac
quiesced without a murmur, from a conviction of its expe
diency. At this tirae I was doing the duty of adjutant-
general to General M'Dougall.
It was' on this new and interesting theatre of war that
the confidence and affections of the officers and soldiers
(who now became permanent on the lines, instead of being
reUeved every two or three weeks as before), as well as of

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS or aaron burr.

179

the inhabitants, aU before unknown to Colonel Burr, were
inspired with confidence by a systera of consummate skiU,
astonishing vigUance, and extreme activity, which, in like
manner, made such an impression on the enemy, that after
kn unsuccessful attack on one of his advanced posts, he
never raade any other attack on our Unes during the winter.
His humanity, and constant regard to the security of the\
property and persons of the inhabitants from injury and in
sult, were not less conspicuous than his military skill, &c.
No man was insulted or disturbed. The health of the
troops was perfect. Not a desertion during the whole
period of his command, nor a man raade prisoner, although
the colonel was constantly making prisoners.
A country, which for three years before had been a scene
of robbery, cruelty, and murder, becarae at once the abode
of security and peace. Though his powers were despotic,
they were exercised only for the peace, the security, and
the protection of the surrounding country and its inhabitants.
In the winter of 1779, the latter part of it. Major HuU, an
excellent officer, then in the Massachusetts line, was sent
down as second to Colonel Burr, who, after having becorae
farailiarized to his systera, succeeded hira for a short time
in coraraand, about the last of April, at which lirae Colonel
Burr's health w>ould not permit him to continue in coramand ;
but the major was soon compelled to fall back many miles,
so as to be within supporting distance of the array at the
highlands. The severity of the service, and the ardent and increasing
activity with which he had devoted hiraself to his country's
cause, for more than four years, having materially impaired
his health, he was compeUed to leave the post and retire from
active service. It was two years before he regained his
health. Major Hull has ever since borne uniformly the most
honourable testimony of the exalted talents of his com
mander, by declaring his gratitude for being placed under

180 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
an officer whose system of duty was different from that of
aU other comraanders under whom he had served.
Having thus exhibited the colonel's line of march, and his
operations in service, I must now present him in contrast
with his equals in rank, and his superiors in command.
In September, 1777, the enemy came out on both sides
of the Hudson simultaneously, in considerable force, say
from 2 to 3000 raen. On the east side (at Peekskill) was
a raajor-general of our array, with an effective force of about
2000 men. The enemy advanced, and our general retired
without engaging them. Our barracks and storehouses,
and the-whole viUage of PeekskiU, were sacked and burnt,
and the country pillaged.
On the west side, at the mouth of the Clove, near Suf
fren's, was Colonel Burr, coraraanding Malcolm's regiraent,
about three hundred and fifty men. On the first alarm he
marched to find the enemy, and on the same night attacked
and took their picket-guard, raUied the country, and raade
such show of war, that the enemy retreated the next mom
ing, leaving behind him the cattle, horses, and sheep he had
plundered. The year following. Lieutenant-colonel Thompson was
sent to coramand on the same lines in Westchester by Gen
eral Heath, and he was surprised at nine or ten o'clock in
the day, and made prisoner, with a great part of his detach
ment. Again, in the succeeding winter. Colonel Greene, of the
Rhode Island line, with his own and another Rhode Island
regiment, who was a very distinguished officer, and had with
these two regiments, in the year 1777, defeated the Hessian
grenadiers under Count Donop, at Red Banks, on the Dela
ware, who was mortaUy wounded and taken prisoner, com
manded on the lines in Westchester ; there receded to Pine's
bridge, and in this position Colonel Greene's troops were
also surprised after breakfast and dispersed, the colonel

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 181
himself and Major Flagg kiUed, and many soldiers made
prisoners, besides kiUed and wounded.
On the west side of the Hudson, in the year 1780, Gen
eral Wayne, the hero of Stony Point, with a large cora
mand and field artUlery, made an attack on a block-house
nearly opposite to Dobbs's ferry, defended by cowboys, and
was repulsed with loss ; whereas Colonel Burr burnt and
destroyed one of a similar kind, in the winter of 1779, near
Delancey's miUs, with a very few men, and without any
loss on his part, besides capturing the garrison.
Here, my good friend commodore, I must drop the cur
tain till I see you in Albany, which will be on the first
week in Febraary, where I can and wiU convince you that
he is the_only man in Araerica (that is. the UnitedLSlates) ,
who is fit to be a Ueutenant-general: and let you and I, and i
dUhe Jjnerican people.Jjaokom-fbr--Mr. -M.adison.'s-lieuten.- '
^nt-generaHn^ontrast. I am your friend,
Richard Platt.

CHAPTER XII.
On retiring from the army. Colonel Burr visited his friends
in New-Jersey and Connecticut. He had previously deter
mined, as soon as his health would permit, to commence
the study of law. During the four years he was in public
service, his patrimony was greatly irapaired. Towards his
brethren in arras he had acted with liberality. Naturally of
an improvident character, he adopted no raeans to preserve
the property which he inherited. The cardinal vices of
gaming and drinking he avoided. But he was licentious
in the extreme, and regardless of consequences in the grati

182 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
fication of his desires. His extravagance was unrestrained
when, in his opinion, necessary to the enjoyment of his
pleasures. From the arras of his nurse untU he had num
bered fourscore years, he was perpetually the dupe of the
artful and the selfish.
Colonel Burr was about five feet six inches in height. He
was well forraed, and erect in his attitude. In all his raove
raents there was a railitary air. Although of small stature,
yet there was about him a loftiness of mien that could not
pass unnoticed by a stranger. His deportraent was polished
and courtly. His features were regular, and generally con
sidered handsorae. His eye was jet black, with a brilliancy
never surpassed. The appropriate civilities of the drawing-
room were performed with a grace alraost peculiar to hira
self. His whole raanner was inconceivably fascinating. As
a gentleman, this was his great theatre. He acted upon the
principle that the female was the weaker sex, and that they
were all susceptible of flattery. His great art consisted in
adopting it to the grade of intellect he addressed. In this
respect he was singularly fortunate as well as adroit. In
matters of gallantry he was excessively vain. This vanity
sometimes rendered him ridiculous in the eyes of Ms best
friends, and often enabled the most worthless and unprinci
pled to take advantage of his credulity.
Such traits of character would appear to be incompatible
with an elevated and towering mind ; yet they usually infiu
enced, and frequently controlled, one of the greatest and most
extraordinary men of the age. A volume of anecdotes raight
be related as evidence of Colonel Burr's quickness of per
ception and tact at reply, when an ill-judged or thoughtless
expression was addressed by him to a lady. One is suffi
cient for iUustration.
After his return from Europe, in 1812, he met a maiden
lady in Broadway soraewhat advanced in life. He had not
seen her for raany years. As she passed hira, she exclaimed
to a gentleman on whose arm she was resting, " Colonel

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 183
Burr !" Hearing his name mentioned, he suddenly stopped
and looked her in the face. " Colonel," said she, " you do
not recollect me."
" I do not, madara," was the reply.
" It is Miss K., sir."
" What !" said he, " Miss K. yet .'"
The lady, soraewhat piqued, reiterated, " Yes, sir, Miss
K. yet !"
Feeling the delicacy of his situation, and the unfortunate
error he had committed, he gently took her hand, and em
phatically remarked, " Well, madam, then I venture to as
sert that it is not the fault of my sex"
On Burr's being appointed, in 1777, a lieutenant-colonel
in the army, he joined his regiraent, then stationed at Rama-
poa, in New-Jersey. At Pararaus, not far distant, resided
Mrs. Prevost, the wife of Colonel Prevost, of the British
army. She was an accoraplished and inteUigent lady. Her
husband was with his regiment in the West Indies, where
he died early in the revolutionary war. She had a sister re
siding with her. It was her son, the Hon. John B. Pre
vost, who in 1802 was recorder of the city of New- York,
and subsequently district judge of the United States Court
for the district of Louisiana. The house of Mrs. Prevost
was the resort of the most accomplished officers in the
American army when they were in the vicinity of it. She
vvas highly respected by her neighbours, and visited by the
most genteel people of the surrounding country. Her situ
ation was one of great delicacy and constant apprehension.
The wife of a British officer, and connected with the ad
herents of the crown, naturally becarae an object of poUtical
suspicion, notwithstanding great circuraspection on her part.
Under such circurastances, a strong sympathy was excited
in her behalf. Yet there were those among the whigs who
were inclined to enforce the laws of the state against her,
whereby she would be compelled to withdraw within the

184 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
lines of the eneray. In this family Colonel Burr became
intimate in 1777, and in 1782 married the widow Prevost.

JAMES MONROE* TO MRS. PREVOST.
Philadelphia, November Sth, 1778.
A young lady who either is, or pretends to be, in love, is,
you know, my dear Mrs. Prevost, the most unreasonable
creature in existence. If she looks a sraile or a frown, which
does not immediately give or deprive you of happiness (at
least to appearance), your company soon becoraes very in
sipid. Each feature has its beauty, and each attitude the
graces, or you have no judgraent. But if you are so stu
pidly insensible of her charras as to deprive your tongue and
eyes of every expression of adrairation, and not only to be
silent respecting her, but devote thera to an absent object,
she cannot receive a higher insult ; nor would she, if not
restrained by politeness, refrain from open resentment.
Upon this principle I think I stand excused for not wri
ting from B. Ridge. I proposed it, however ; and, after raeet
ing with opposition in  , to obtain her point, she prom
ised to visit the little " Hermitage,"! and raake ray ex
cuse herself. I took occasion to turn the conversation to a
different object, and plead for perraission to go to France. I
gave up in one instance, and she certainly ought in the other.
But writing a letter and going to France are very different,
you will perhaps say. She objected to -it, and all the argu
ments which a fond, deUcate, unmarried lady could use, she
did not fail to produce against it. I plead the advantage I
should derive frora it. The personal improveraent, the
connexions I should make. I told her she was not the only
one on whom fortune did not smile in every instance. I
produced examples frora her own acquaintance, and repre
sented their situation in terms which sensibly affected both
herself and Lady C  . I painted a lady full of affection,
* Late President of the United States.
t The residence of Mrs. Prevost.

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 185
of tenderness, and sensibility, separated from her husband,
for a series of tune, by the cruelty of the war — her uncer
tainty respecting his health ; the pain and anxiety which
must naturally arise from it. I represented, in the most
pathetic terms, the disquietudes which, from the nature of
her connexion, might possibly intrude on her doraestic re
treat. I then raised to her view fortitude under distress ;
cheerfulness, life, and gayety, in the midst of affliction.
I hope you will forgive me, my dear little friend, if I pro
duced you to give life to the image. The instance, she
owned, was applicable. She felt for you from her heart, and
she has a heart capable of feeling. She wished not a mis
fortune similar to yours ; but, if I was resolved to make it so,
she would strive to imitate your example. I have now per
mission to go where I please, but you must not forget
her. She and Lady C  promise to corad" to the Her
mitage to spend a week or two. Encourage her, and
represent the advantage I shaU gain from travel. But
why should I desire you to do what I know your own heart
will dictate ? for a heart so capable of friendship feels its
own pain alleviated by alleviating that of another.
But do not suppose that my attention is only taken up
with my own affairs. I am too much attached ever to for
get the Hermitage. Mrs. Duvall, I hope, is recovering ; and
Kitty's indisposition is that of my nearest relation. Mrs.
de Visme has delicate nerves. Tell me her children are
well, and I know she has a flow of spirits, for her health de
pends entirely on theirs.
I was unfortunate in not being able to meet with the gov
ernor. He was neither at Elizabethtown, B. Ridge, Prince
ton, nor Trenton. I have consulted with several members
of Congress on the occasion. They own the injustice, but
cannot interfere. The laws of each state raust govern it
self. They cannot conceive the possibility of its taking
place. General Lee says it must not take place ; and if he
Vol I.— a a

186 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
was an absolute monarch, he would issue an order to pre
vent it.
I am introduced to the gentleman I wished by General
Lee in a very particular manner. I camiot determine with
certainty what I shall do till ray arrival in Virginia.
Make ray corapliraents to Mrs. and Miss De Visrae, and
believe me, with the sincerest friendship, Yours, James Monroe
Mr. Peter De Visme, the brother of Mrs. Prevost, was
captured at sea, and made prisoner of war. As she was
personaUy acquainted with General Washington, she soli
cited his influence to proraote his exchange, to which the
general replied : — Headquarters, Middlebrook, 19th May, 1779.
Madam,
It is rauch to be regretted that the pleasure of obeying
the first eraotions in favour of misfortune is not always in
our power. I should be happy could I consider myself at
liberty to comply with your request in the case of your
brother, Mr. Peter De Visrae. But, as I have heretofore
taken no direction in the disposal of marine prisoners, I can
not, with propriety, interfere on the present occasion, how
ever great the satisfaction I should feel in obliging where
you are interested. Your good sense will perceive this, and
find a sufficient excuse in the delicacy of my situation.
I have the honour to be, madam.
Your obedient servant,
George Washington.
from william paterson.
Morristown, 29th September, 1779.
Dear Burr,
About four weeks ago I received a letter from you of the
8th of August, and, a week after, another of the 23d. They

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 187
came by the way of Moorestown, from which to Rariton,
where I reside. The conveyance is easy and safe. I can
not point out any mode of sending your letters better than
that which you have adopted.
I was pleased extremely to hear from you, and, indeed,
was quite disappointed in not hearing frora you sooner. I
was for a tirae in expectation that you would return into
Jersey, as the scene of raUitary operations was directed to
your part of the world, and would unavoidably drive you
from your study and repose. Military operations are so fluc
tuating and uncertain as to render it exceedingly difficult to
fix upon a retreat which may not be broken in upon in the
course of a campaign. New-Haven bid fair to be the seat
of calmness and serenity, of course well suited for a studi
ous and contemplative mind, and therefore raade choice of
as the place of your abode. New-Haven, however, partook
of the coramon calamity ; and, in the evolution of human
events, from a place of safety and repose, was turned into a
place of confusion and war.
You are not contented, my dear Burr, and why are you
not? You sigh for New-Jersey, and why do you not re
turn ? It is true we are continually broken in upon by the
sons of tumult and war. Our situation is such that the one
army or the pther is almost constantly with us, and yet we
rub along with tolerable order, spirit, and content. Oh ! that
the days of peace would once more return, that we might
follow what business, partake of what arauseraents, and
think and live as we please. As to rayself, I am, my dear
Burr, one of the happiest of men. The office I hold calls
me too frequently, and detains me too long, from horae, oth
erwise I should enjoy happiness as full and high as this
world can afford. It is, as you express it, " serene, rural,
and sentiraental ;" and such, one day, you wUl feel.
" You see no corapany — ^you partake of no amusements —
you are always grave." Such, too, has been the life that I
have lived for months and years. I cannot say that it is an

188 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23
unpleasing one. I avoided company ; indeed, I do so still,
unless it be the corapany of chosen friends. I have been
ever fond of my fireside and study — ever fond of caUing up
sorae absent friend, and of living over, in idea, past times
of sentiraental pleasure. Fancy steps in to my aid, colours
the picture, and makes it delightful indeed. You are in the
very frame of mind I wish you to be ; may it continue.
I cannot tell you what has become of Mrs. Provost's af
fairs. About two months ago I received a very polite letter
from her. She was apprehensive that the commissioners
would proceed. It seeras they threatened to go on. I
wrote thera on the subject, but I have not heard the event.
I am at this place, on ray way to a superior court in Ber
gen. If possible, I shall wait on the good gentleworaan.
At Bergen I shall inquire into the state of the matter. It
wiU, indeed, turn up of course. You shall soon hear from
me again. Adieu. May health and happiness await you
William Paterson.
The precarious and unsettled state of Colonel Burr's
health, in the autumn of 1779 and the beginning of 1780,
was such that he was unable to adopt and adhere to any
regular system of study. Among his most intimate per
sonal friends was Colonel Robert Troup. He, too, had de
termined to retire frora public service, and was anxious to
study in the same office with Burr. His letters cast much
light on their pursuits at the time they were written.
FROM COLONEL TROUP.
Philadelphia, 16th January, 1780.
My dear Friend,
Watkins was kind enough to deliver me yours of the Sth
of December, written, I presume, at Pararaus. I almost
envy you the happiness you have enjoyed. From the first
moment of my acquaintance with Mrs. Prevost and her sis
ter, I conceived an admiration for them both, which is much

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 189
increased by the opinion you entertain of them. How, then,
am I flattered by their polite raanner of mentioning my
name. To whom am I indebted but to you, ray friend, for
this unmerited favour ? Surely these ladies saw nothing in
me at Governor Livingston's which was worthy of remem
brance, unless a terrible noise, which sorae people call
laughter, could be worth remembering. With the best in
tention, therefore, to serve me, you have done rae an injury,
Aaron. I shall be afraid to see our favourites in the spring,
because I shall fall infinitely short of their ideas of clever
ness. Pray, do you recollect the opinion which Judge Can
dour solemnly pronounced upon us both, in a court of rea
son held at the Indian King ? Why, then, will you expose
my weakness by ascribing to me imaginary excellences ?
If you persist in such cruel conduct, sir, I will raake you
feel the weight of my resentment, by publishing to the
world the purity of my esteem for your public and private
character. I am happy to find our plan of studying together appears
more and more rational to you. It really does to me, and I
hope we shall follow it. Since you left Philadelphia, some
circumstances have tumed up which render my office so
disagreeable to me that I ara deterrained to resign. Vous
pouvez compter sur moi. Besides the disgust I have taken,
I am led to it by ambition, which has a small share of influ
ence over me as well as you.
But I ara desirous of a change in our plan, which I re
quest you to think of seriously. I am inchned to believe
il would be best for us to study the law with Mr. Stockton,
at Princeton. This, I know, will surprise you ; but your
surprise will be lessened when you hear my reasons.
The practice of Connecticut differs so materially from
the practice of New-York and New-Jersey, that we should
lose time by being with Mr. Osmer. For, after being eigh
teen months or two years with him, it would be necessary
to continue nearly the same time in another office, to get a

190 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 23.
competent knowledge of the practice. This is a matter of
consequence, especially as it is my object to qualify myself
for practice as soon as possible.
I have the highest opinion of Mr. Osmer, and, did I in
tend to follow the law in Connecticut, there is no man I
would sooner study with. I believe he would ground us
well in the knowledge of the dead-letter of the law ; but I
'wish to have the practice and the theory accompanying
each other. Mr. Stockton has been polite enough to raake
me an offer, and has proraised to spare no pains to instruct
rae. He would be glad to instract you likewise ; for I
have heard hira express himself of you in the most friendly
manner. I propose to lodge at sorae substantial farmer's
house, about a mile frora the main road, and have made a
solemn league and covenant with my own mind to seclude
myself from the pleasures of the world. .This I know I
can do. And have you not as much philosophy as I have ?
It is true, Mr. Stockton has unmarried daughters, and
there is a number of genteel famiUes in and near Prince
ton. But why should we connect ourselves with any of
thera, so as to interrupt our studies ? They will be entitled
to a civil bow frora us whenever we meet them ; and, if
they expect more, they will be disappointed. Indeed, 1
shall take care to inform them of my intentions, and if they
afterwards complain of my want of politeness in not visit
ing them, it will give rae little uneasiness.
I entreat you, ray dearest and best friend, to reflect on
this matter, and favour me with your answer without a
moraent's loss of tirae. My happiness, and ray improve
ment in the law, depend entirely upon pursuing my studies
with you. The change I now propose is conformable to
the sentiments and wishes of all my friends, particularly of
Chancellor Livingston, who is certainly a judge. '
I forgot to mention that Mr. Stockton is universaUy al
lowed to be one of the best speakers we ever had in this
part of the continent, and it will therefore be in his po^er

Aged 23.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 191
to teach us the eloquence of the bar, which may be con
sidered as a capital advantage.
I have communicated my sentiments on this subject
more fully to our mutual friend, Colonel Wadsworth, who
will deliver you this letler, than I have lo you in writing.
He will explain them to you, and, I ara sure, will give you
his own with the utrapsl candour and sincerity.
I have left several raessages at the house Dr. 
lodges when he is in town ; but cannot get an answer, and
see little prospect of getting your raoney unless you write
hira a dunning letter. I shall leave one:for hira to-morrow,
and will endeavour to have the affair settled this week.
I -write this at my lodgings, where I have not a single
newspaper. Colonel Wadsworth will leave town in the
course of an hour ; and, if I can find time, I will go to the
office and collect all I can find. There have been none,
however, since you left town, which are worth reading.
Wadsworth will tell you all the news I have, which is, that
old Roger Sherman is metaraorphosed, by sorae strange
magical power, into a very honest man.
God bless you, and may Dom. Tetard soon have the pleas
ure of drinking a glass of wine with us both, in his house at
Kingsbridge. I mean, after the British gentry have left it.
I should have written to you before, but I have been wait
ing these three weeks past for Colonel Wadsworth to leave
Philadelphia. He will inform you of the cursed slavish
life I lead at the treasury office. I am obliged lo attend it
even on Saturday nights, which places rae below the level
of a negro in point of liberty. Pray present my best
respects to Tetard, and assure him of my wishes to serve
him at all times, and on all occasions. Yours,
Robert Troup.

192 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 24.

FROM colonel TROUP.
Philadelphia, February 14th, 1780.
My dear Burr,
I have resigned my office, and am now preparing to leave
Philadelphia to go to Princeton, agreeable to the plan in my
letter by Colonel Wadsworth. This week I expect to
finish a little private business I have on hand, and, by the lat
ter end of the next, to be settled in a regular course of study
with Mr. Stockton. What think you of this alteration in
the plan we settleft? Can you leave Mr. Osmer without
injury ? I assure you, the only motive I have to prefer
Stockton is a desire to qualify myself for practice as soon
as possible. All ray friends are against my studying in
Connecticut, for the reason mentioned in my last ; and they
all recoraraend Stockton to me. I am therefore deter
mined to study with him.
I am very much afraid that Princeton will be disagree
able to you on many accounts, and particularly on account
of the number of acquaintances you have in and near it.
This is a misfortune, to be sure ; but do as I shall, neglect
them aU ; it is matter of perfect indifference to me whether I
affront them or not. My object is to study with the closest
attention. I must do it. I have no other resource.
Permit me to declare, like a sincere friend, that my hap
piness is so intiraately connected with yours, that I shaU be
chagrined to an extrerae if you find it inconvenient to jom
me. We could be useful to each other. Besides facilita
ting each other's progress in the law, we could improve our
selves in writing and speaking. In one word— -I am con
fident I- should acquire as much knowledge in three years
with you as in six years without you. I never was more
serious. Come, therefore, immediately, and bring Mr.
Tetard "with you to perfect us in the French language,
which I have paid little attention to since I wrote you, and
indeed since you left me.

Aged 24.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 193
Pray why have you neglected to answer my letter by
Colonel Wadsworth ? I suspect something extraordinary is
the matter with you. Or are you so angry as not to think
I merit an answer? Whatever your reason was, let me
request you to favour me with an answer to this by the first
opportunity. If it is sent under cover to Mr. Stockton, it
will perhaps reach me sooner.
It is reported, and pretty generally believed, that Sir
Henry Clinton, with the fleet that came from New- York
about six weeks ago, has touched at Georgia ; taken Pre-
vost's troops with him, and gone either to St. Augustine or
the Havannah. This is very important news, if true ; but
it seems to wait confirmation.
Your unalterable friend,
Robert Troup.
to william paterson.
Middletown, February 16th, 1780.
Your friendly letter of Septeraber has at l»ngth found its
way to me. I am once more a recluse. It accords vvith
my feelings. I should doubtless be happier if I enjoyed
perfect health and the society of a friend like you ; but why
do I say like you 1 No likeness could compensate for the
absence of the original.
I am something at a loss how to regulate my motions for
the coraing suramer. The prospect of peace is still distant.
It is an object of importance with rae to be not only secure
from alarms, but remote from the noise of war. My pres
ent situation promises at least those advantages. Perhaps
yours does equaUy. Events only can determine.
My health, which was tiU of late very promising, seems
to decline a little. This circumstance wiU oblige me lo alter
my course of life. I shall be in your state in May or June,
perhaps sooner. If you have a prospect of tranquillity, I
shall have no thought of returning. Colonel Troup, a
worthy, sensible young fellow, and a particular friend of
Vol. I.— B b 9

194 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 24.
mine, wishes to knoiv where I shaU prosecute my studies,
and is determined, he says, to be my companion. A gen
tleman who has been long eminent at your bar, and whom
we both know perfectly weU, had made Troup some polite
offers of his service as an instructer. He was pleased with
the scheme, and as he knew the gentleman was professedly
my friend, urged rae to put myself also under his tuition. I
mentioned to him in a late letter the objections which had been
•decisive with me, and I fancy he will view them in the same
light. He is the cornpanion I would wish in my studies.
He is a better antidote for the spleen than a ton of drags.
I am often a little inclined to hypo.
My best respects attend Mrs. Paterson. Speak of her in
your letters. I would not feel indifferent to one so near to
you, even if no personal acquaintance had confirmed my
esteera. You would have heard frora me sooner, but no
post has rode this fortnight. I have been pursuing the
track you marked out for rae, though not with the ardour I
could wish. .My health will bear no iraposition. I am
obliged to eat, drink, sleep, and study, as it directs. No
such restraint interrupts your bliss. May you feel no bonds
but those of love and friendship — ^no rules but those that
lead to happuiess. Adieu. Yours sincerely,
A. Burr.
PROM COLONEL TROUP.
Philadelphia, 29th February, 1780.
My dear Burr,
Your favours of the 1st and 5th inst. carae to hand last
night, and are both before me. I am very much indebted
to you for your candour in slating the objections which are
against Princeton, as well as Mr. Stockton. I had antici
pated thera all. They are far from being groundless. But
my situation was peculiar when I determined to Uve with
Mr. Stockton. In my last a principle of delicacy induced

Aged 24.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 195
me to be more reserved than is consistent with the sincerity
of our affection for each other. Forgive my criminal re
serve. I will be plain with you now.
By a strange kind of contracted system, which pervades
all the civil estabUshments of Congress, I was reduced to
the necessity of resigning my office at least six weeks
sooner than I expected. Though I laboured both day and
night, with as much drudgery as a negro on a plantation in
the West Indies, the board of treasury did not think thera
selves authorized to report a warrant in my favour for
money to answer the coramon deraands of living. They
confined me to my salary of ten thousand dollars* per an
num. Finding that I had not the most distant prospect of
getting a decent support while I continued in office, and
that I was obliged to pay four or five thousand dollars out
of my own private purse for necessaries, I cursed and quit
them the beginning of this month.
Being thus out of office, I thought it would be prueient lo
settle rayself al the law without a moraent's delay, both on
account of the heavy expense of living in this city, and the
loss of lime, which is of the greatest consequence lo rae.
I did not forget Mr. Paterson when I gave the preference
to Mr. Stockton. The private character of the forraer is
infinitely superior to that of the latter, and so is his public.
But he is iraraersed in such an ocean of business, that I
iraagined it would be out of his power to bestow all the
tirae and pains on our improvement we would wish. Be
sides, I was afraid of being more confined to the dradgery
of copying in his office than I ought. This is inseparable
from an office in which there is a good deal done, however
well disposed a lawyer may be to promote the interest of
his clerk. You observe that his present office expires next
summer. I grant it. Yet he may be chosen attorney-gen
eral again ; and this I believe wUl be the case, for there is
* Continental paper dollars— equal in value to sirty for one silver dollar.

196 MEMOIRS or AARON BURR. [Aged 24.
not a man of sufficient abiUties in the state, except him and
Morris, to whom the people would give the office. Morris,
I fancy, will not accept it if offered to him, as he has lately
resigned his seat on the bench ; and I will venture to pre
dict that Paterson wUl be continued, though against his
inclination. Upon the whole, then, I feel extreme regret in telling
you that I raust go and sil down at Princeton the latter
end of this week al farthest. The die is cast. My honour
forbids me to act contrary to the engagement I have enter
ed into wilh Mr. Stockton. Had I received your kind let
ter before my absolute determination, I should certainly
have followed your advice. Our plan, therefore, wUl be
frustrated. Painful the reflection! You would hurt me
exceedingly if you came to live al Princeton, and subjected
yourself to the inconveniences you mention, merely to
please me.
I gjn glad to hear your health is mending, and should be
Still more happy if it was unnecessary to make use of the
raineral springs in the Clove. I have always suspected
that the law would disagree wilh your delicate constitution.
It requires the most intense study. Your ambition to excel
will stimulate you to the closest application, and I dread
the effects it may produce. You should therefore be cau
tious. Health is a source of more substantial pleasm'e
than the most cultivated understanding.
A few days ago Dr. Edwards left a bundle of bills,
amounting, as he says, to one thousand pounds, at Dr.
Rush's for me, lo be sent to you. I have not yet counted
it, but I suppose it is right. To-day or to-morrow I shaU
leave a receipt for il at Dr. Rush's. I believe I shaU
presume so far upon your friendship as to borrow a part^of
it for ray own use for about a fortnight. I am much dis
appointed in receiving a small sum to pay my debts in
'town. I sold two thousand dollars in certificates to Mr.
Duer just before he left town, and he gave me an order

Aged 24.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 197
upon a lady for the money. I find she will not be able to
pay it for some time hence, and I am so pressed for cash
that I have written to Duer, at Baskenridge, for the certifi
cates or money immediately. I expect an answer every
moment ; and, till I receive it, shall consider part of yours
as my own. The remainder I shaU transmit you by the first
safe conveyance. I think it would be wrong to trust the
post with it.
I thank you sincerely for your offer of a horse. The
present state of my finances is such that I cannot afford to
keep one. If I could it might detach me from my studies.
Beware of temptation, saith the Scripture, and so saith my
interest. I suppose you have read the king's speech. He raakes
no raention of his rebellious subjects in America, or of any
allies, and is resolved to prosecute the war. The debates
in the House of Lords, as well as Coraraons, on the raotion
for an address of thanks, were very warm. Lord North,
in one of his speeches, makes no scruple of declaring that
they have no allies to assist them. That they can get
none. That the combined fieets have a decided superiority ;
and that it would have been highly dangerous for the Eng
lish fleet to have fought them last fall. The bills on Spain
and Holland sell very fast. They will all be disposed of in
a very short time. There are large arrivals in Virginia and
Maryland ; and there are several vessels below, waiting for
the river to be cleared of ice, which will be in three or four
days. Poor continental is still going down hill. Fifty-
eight was refused yesterday ; and I have no doubt it will be
seventy for one before ten days hence. Adieu. As long as
you are Aaron Burr, I will be
Robert Troup.
from major r. alden.
I intended to have wrote you a letter in answer to your
last, but neither head or heart wiU enable me at present. Al-

198 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 24.
though I am answerable for my conduct, yet I cannot gov
em the aniraal fluids. I am so much of a lunatic thermom
eter, that bolh moon and atmosphere very much influence
my aerial constitution. My brain is subject to such changes,
and so rauch affected by external objects, that I may be
properly corapared to a windmill. You may make the si
militudes as you please. I have not a single sentiment in
ray head, or feeling in ray heart, that would pay for expres
sing. Al any rate, my mill will not grind. What is all this
says my friend Aaron ? The pleasure I enjoyed yesterday
in feasting in good company, and in a variety of other agree-
ables, at the nuptial anniversary of our dear and happy
friends, Mr. and Mrs. Thaddeus Burr, has deprived me of
that coraraon share of sensibUity which is generally distrib
uted through the days of the year, and rather destroyed the
equilibrium. I set out for carap the last of this week ; may
I expect letters from my friend ? Be assured of my warm
est friendship, and make me happy by the like assurance, as
it wiU afford the sincerest pleasure to.
Yours, with affection,
R. Alben.
FROM WILLIAM PATERSON.
Rariton, April 14th, 1780.
My dear Burr,
I lake the earliest opportunity of acknowledging the re
ceipt of your dateless letter, and reluming you ray best
thanks for it. Mr. and Mrs. Reeve* have been so kind as
to tarry a night with me. We endeavoured to prevail upon
them to pass a few days with us, and should have been
happy if we could have succeeded. This letter goes with
them. That circurastance cannot fail of raaking it still raore
welcome to your honest and benevolent heart.
I wrote you the latter end of January from the Hermit-
• Judge Tappan Reeve, whose lady was the sister of Colonel Burr.

Aged 24.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 199
age, and intrusted the letter to Mrs. Prevost. It was a mere
scrawl. This is of the same cast. However, I promise, the
very first leisure hour, to devote il entirely to you in the let
ter way. Although I do not write frequently to you, yet, be
lieve me, I think frequently of you. Oh, Burr ! may you
enjoy health, and be completely happy ; as rauch so as I am
— more I cannot wish you. Nor will you be able to attain
high felicity until you experience such a union as I do. Mrs.
Paterson is in tolerable health, and gives you her best re
spects. I wish her safely through the month of May, and
then 1 shall be still more happy.
When you come to Jersey I shall certainly see you. If
I do not, it will be treason against our friendship.
Peace is distant. There is no prospect of it in the pres
ent year. Nor do I think that Britain -will come to terms
while she fancies herself superior on the ocean. The war,
however, goes southward, and there is sorae hope that we
shall be more in quiet this year than we have been since
the commencement of hostUities. On the opening of the
campaign we shall be able to judge better. Adieu.
William Paterson,
from colonel TROUP.
Princeton, April 27th, 1780.
My dear Burr,
I wrote to you yesterday, and happened to put the letter
into the postoffice a little after the post had gone. In that
letler I requested you to come here as soon as possible, for
it was highly probable that I should leave Princeton en
tirely, and determine to follow our original plan. The event
has confirmed my conjecture. I came here from General
Morris's yesterday, and exerted all the influence I was mas
ter of to get new lodgings, but could not, without lodging in
the town, which would be disagreeable to me on many ac
counts. I have now given over all thoughts of staying here ;
and, having an excellent pretext for changing ray ground, I

200 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 24.
shall write to Mr. Stockton, who is still in PhUadelphia, and
acquaint him with my intentions of going away. Nothing is
therefore wanting but yourself, with a horse and chair, to
make me completely happy. I wish to God I could push
off eastward iraraediately, but I caimot. I have no horse,
neither is it practicable to borrow or hne one. I must,
then, wait for you ; and I request you, in the most pressing
terms, to lose not a moment's lime in coming for me at Gen
eral Morris's, about six mUes from this, near Colonel Van
Dyke's mill, on the road to Somerset, where I shaU wait
impatiently for you.
I am extremely uneasy lest this letter should reach you
after you have left home, and begun your joumey north
ward. In that case I shall be very unfortunate ; and, to pro-
vent too great a delay, I write to Mr. Reeves at Litchfield,
and enclose him a letter for you, and desire him to for
ward it to you, wherever you are, with all expedition. I
shall likewise enclose another for you to Mrs. Prevost, who
will be kind enough to give it to you the moment you arrive
there. If we once get together, I hope we shall not be soon
parted. It would afford me the greatest satisfaction to live
with you during Ufe. God grant our meeting may be soon.
You have my best and fervent wishes for the recovery of
your health, and every other happiness. Adieu.
Robert Troup.
to colonel troup.
Fairfield, 15th May, 1780.
My dear Bob,
I wrote you from this place the 12th inst. This foUowfj
close upon il, that I may rest assured of your having heard
from me.
I go to-morrow to Middletown, from whence I shall
hasten my departure as much as possible. No trifling con
cerns should command me a moment ; but business of im-

Aged 24.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 201
portance, and some embarrassments too serious to be laughed
out of the way, wiU, I fear, detain me this month. But the
month is already gone before you can receive this. I hope
your philosophy will not have forsaken you. Far from you
be gloom and despondency. Attune your organs to the gen
uine ha ! ha ! 'Tis to rae the rausic of the spheres ; the sov
ereign specific that shall disgrace the physician's art, and
baffle the viralence of malady. Hold yourself aloof frora
all engagements, even of the heart. We will deliberate un
biased, that we may decide -with wisdora. I forra no decis
ion on the subject of our studies till I see you.
I write from the house of our friend Thaddeus, in a
world of company, who are constantly interrupting rae with
irapertinenl questions. Your suraraons came unexpected,
and found me unprepared. Nevertheless, my assiduity shall
convince you that you may comraand
A. Burr.
FROM COLONEL TROUP.
At General Morris's, near Princeton, 16th May, 1780.
My dear Burr,
I wrote you, about three weeks ago, a very pressing let
ter, and requested you to come for me here as soon as
possible. My anxiety to see you is extreme, and, lest my
letter should have miscarried, I cannot help troubling you
wilh another. Every thing, my dear Burr, has succeeded
to my wishes. I have left Mr. Stockton upon the most
friendly terms imaginable, and I am still at General Mor
ris's to avoid expense, but ara sp situated that I cannot
study. I assure you, my future prosperity ^nd happiness in
life depends, in a greater measure than you may iraagine,
on my living and studying wilh you ; and the sooner we get
seated in some retired place, where we raay live cheaply
and study without interraption, the better. I know myself
— I think I know you perfectly. I am more deceived than
ever I was if we do not live happily together, and improve
Vol. I.— Cc 9*

202 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 24.
beyond our most sanguine expectations. Delay not, there
fore, a single moment, my dear Burr, but come for rae your
self. A horse or a chair without you wiU be unwelcome.
I want to consult you about several raatters of importance
to me before I leave this state. I say leave this state, for
our original plan of studying wilh Mr. Osmer appears the
most rational to me on many accounts.
' I am so much attached to you, my dear Burr, and feel
myself so much interested in every thing which concerns
you, that I believe, and hope sincerely, it wiU be many years
before we separate if we can once sit down together. As
¦ long as my slender fortune will perrait me to live without
business, we will, if you find il agreeable, enjoy the pleas
ures of retireraent. And when we enter on the theatre of
the world, why not act our parts together ? Heaven grant
that we raay. I repeat it again, my dearest friend, lose not
a moraent's lime in coraing for rae. It is painful to trespass
so long upon General Morris's bounty, though he be ray
friend, and I have not any raeans of stirring an inch from
him unless I walk. For fear you should not be at Middle-
town, I shall enclose a copy of this letter to Mr. Reeves,
and request hira to forward it to you iraraediately if you
should not be with him.
With what pleasure did I receive yours of the 24th ult.,
al Princeton, the other day, when I went to pay Mr. Stock
ton a visit after his return from Philadelphia. I cordiaUy
congratulate you on the improvement of your health by rash
experiments. May it be as well established as ray own,
which is perfectly capable of the closest application. But
I was not a little mortified to find you say noihing about
your intention to ride to Jersey. Let me entreat you once
more to sel off as soon as possible. Every moraent is pre
cious, and ought to be employed to advantage. I shaU wait
for you with the greatest impatience ; and, in the meantime,
I am, what I always wish lo be.
Your affectionate and sincere friend,
Robert Troup.

Aged 24.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 203

FROM COLONEL TROUP.
Society-Hall, General Morris's, 23d May, 1780.
My dear Aaron,
My patience is almost exhausted. I have been waiting
for you this month past. Here I am, a pensioner upon the
bounty of ray good friend General Morris, and ara likely to
continue so, unless you are kind enough to corae and carry
me away. This is the fifth or sixth letter I have written
you on the subject. What can be the reason of the great
delay in forwarding letters by the post? Your last was
above a fortnight old before it got to Princeton ; and, upon
inquiry. Daddy Plumb inforrns me the riders are ordered to
ride forty miles a day during the season. Must I attribute
il to the fatality which has already separated us, and, I fear,
is deterrained lo pul an eternal bar lo our junction ? Such
an event would blast all ray hopes of future happiness.
My dear Aaron, I want words to express ray pleasure in
anticipating the satisfaction of retiring frora the cares of the
world with you, and living in all the siraple elegance of an
cient philosophers. We should raake a rapid iraprovement
in every branch of useful literature ; and when we came to
act our parts on the theatre of the world, we might excite
admiration, and, what would be infinitely more pleasing to
us, we should be better raen and better citizens.
After Mr. Stockton returned frora Philadelphia, I corarau
nicated to hira ray situation and ray intentions. He appro
ved of ray determination to go away, and gave me some ad
vice, which you shall know when you see me. Thus I
have left Mr. Stockton without causing the least uneasiness,
and I am now ready to enter upon our old plan, which ap
pears the most consistent with our present views. As I
said in all my letters to you on the subject, I ara here from
a principle of economy ; but it is disagreeable to stay so
long as a visiter, and I am therefore obliged to request you
to alter your intention about coming here, and set off the

204 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 24.
moment you receive this. I have no horse, and depend en
tirely upon you. Besides the tirae we lose by postponing
our settlement, I have a matter of great importance to us
both to comraunicate to you, that has no connexion with our
studying, and which makes it necessary for me to see you
immediately. Poor Mr. Stockton is incurable. He cannot survive the
summer. Yours,
Robert Troup.
from colonel troup.
Baskenridge, June 27th, 1780.
My dear Aaron,
After a very disagreeable ride indeed, I came here the day
before yesterday in the aftemoon ; and yesterday raorning,
just as I was going to raount ray horse, I was seized with a
violent fever, which lasted tUl smiset. This morning I feel
much better, though I am exceedingly weak. In a few
minutes I shall take an emetic ; after which I suppose the
bark will be necessary. The fever seeras lo be of the inter
mittent kind, and, I think, is occasioned principaUy by riding
in the hot sun. I am so agreeably situated here, that I shall
stay till I recover, which I hope will be in three or four days.
The family are very polite and attentive lo me, and Dr. Cut
ting, who quarters in the neighbourhood, is both my physi
cian and apothecary.
The Miss Livingstons have inquired in a very friendly
manner about you, and expect you will wait upon them
when you pass this way. Since I have been here, I have
had an opportunity of removing entirely the suspicion they
had of your courting Miss De Visrae.* They believe
nothmg of it now, and attribute your visits at Pararaus to
motives of friendship for Mrs. Prevost and the family.
* The sister of Mrs. Prevost,

Aged 24.] MEMOIRS of aaron burk. 205
Wherever I am, and can with propriety, you may be as
sured I shall represent this raatter in its true light.
I have obtained a few particulars of  , which I was
before unacquainted with, and which I cannot forbear com
municating. He is the son of the vice-president of Penn
sylvania, who I always understood in PhUadelphia was a
respectable merchant, and I believe is worth a moderate
fortune, though I ara not certain. His faraUy was not
ranked in the genteeler class before the war ; but at present
may be called fashionable, or d la mode. The girls here
think him handsome, genteel, and sensible, and say posi
tively he is no longer engaged to Miss Shippen. He has
frequently spoken to them in raptures, latterly of Miss
De Visme, and once declared he was half in love with her.
I have taken care to touch this string wilh the greatest deli
cacy. How is your health ? Belter or Worse ? Pray neglect
no opportunity of writing to me. Present my most respect
ful compliments to Mrs. Prevost and the family, and also
the ladies on the hill.
Miss Susan Governor Livingston desires her compliments
to you and the two faraUies. So do Susan and Eliza Bas
kenridge. Yours affectionately,
Robert Troup.
FROM peter colt.*
Weathersfield, 7th July, 1780.
My dear Sir,
Will you allow rae that appellation, who have so long
neglected to inform you of the situation of your affairs left
in my hands ? But figure to yourself the thousand embar
rassments that have attended me in conducting ray public
concems towards a close, and you will be led to put a more
? Deputy quartermaster-general ; subsequently commissary for the French
army, and treasurer of the State of Connecticut.

206 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. '^Agcd 24.
favourable construction on my conduct than I should other
wise expect.
My last informed you of the loss of the Hawk, being
chased on shore the back side of Long Island. It was a few
days after she went out on her last cruise, and before she
had any success. Of course, about £20,000, the amount of
her last outfits, were thrown away. I fear this will raake
her die in debt. Though all her goods are either sold or
divided, yet her accounts are not settled. I wish I could
see a tolerable prospect of their being speedily closed. But
the agents are erabarrassed. As soon as I can gel her ac
counts, wiU inforra you of the, slate of this unlucky adventure.
There is on hand sorae clothing, some duck, and rigging, out
of which I hope to raise hard money. What shall I do with
the other articles, a sraall parcel of glassware and rum,
and the money arising from the sales of the vessel's
sea-coat, &c. ? I ara advised to sell every thing for conti
nental money, at the present going prices, and exchange it
for hard. What is the exchange wilh you ? Wilh us it
is from sixty to seventy for one. Let rae know what I am
to do with your money when I get it into ray hands. I have
not settled any of your accounts but Stanley's.
Your friends are generally well, and wish to hear frora
you. Miss H  has been quite unwell since you left us,
as she tells me she hears you are. You will not be vain
when I add, she has more than once lamented your ill state
of health, and expressed some fears that it was not growing
better. The Salljrs beg me to make their best wishes for
your health and happiness acceptable lo you. ShaU I add,
their love also ?
Friend Wadsworth has engaged in the suppUes for the
French navy and troops. I think it will keep him employed,
and much to his advantage. Yours sincerely,
Peter Colt.

Aged 24.] memoirs of aaron burr. 207

FROM PETER COLT. Weathersfield, July 16th, 1780.
Dear Sir,
I have to acknowledge the receipt of your polite and
friendly letter of the 1st inst. My little family would have
been too much elated with your attention to them had you
not dashed the pleasure with the account of your ill state
of health. Pray be more attentive to the recovery of it,
even should it interfere with your study of the law. Let
your diet and exercise be simple and regular ; directed by
experience. The forraer not too low. It is a good old
maxim — ^be religious, but not superstitious. So respecting
health, be exactly attentive, but not whimsical. Excuse
the term, for invalids are but loo apt to be governed by
whim rather than reason and experience,.
Enclosed you have an account current with the agents of
the Hawk. Indeed, take it altogether, it is but a poor ad
venture. I shall endeavour the settlement of your account
with Friend  , and remit you. In the meantime, it will
not be amiss to send me an account of money advanced lo
him. As to news, must refer you to the newspapers, where
you will get a large supply. I wish our printers did not
deal so much in the marvellous. It is in vain for them to
attempt copying Rivington.* They had better stick lo the
trath. Yours, &c.,
Peter Colt.
FROM colonel TROUP.
Rariton, July 18th, 1780.
My dear Burr,
Mr. Paterson went to Brunswick court this morning.
The few lines by Dr. Brown are the first I have had from
* Printer to the king, in the city of New-York.

208 memoirs of aaron burr. [Aged 24.
you since I left Paramus ; where the other letters you refer
to stay, I know not.
I am charmed with my present situation in every re
spect. It could not be more agreeable to_ my wishes. I
shall have reason to thank you, as long as I live, for my
change The raan I lodge with is an able farmer — has a
large house — is fond of me, and is possessed of every thing
a reasonable person could expect or wish for. I study
attentively, and have no interruption whatever. There is
an agreeable neighbourhood in this part of the country,
and, when I choose, I can unbend myself in very genteel
company. I am reading Wood at present. I have almost done
virith his 4th chapter, and am looking over his chapter on
courts. I confine my whole attention to the practice, for
reasons I will tell you when we meet. I ara translating
Burlamaqui's Politic Law. Reading Robertson's Charles
v., Dalryraple on Feudal Property, and Swift's Works.
The morning I devote to the law. I am up sometimes
before, generally at sunrise. From two to half after three
in the afternoon, and from nine to eleven in the evening, I
apply to other matters. I am in a f^ir way, if public affairs
will suffer rae, to be retired.
Paterson is the very man we want. He is sensible,
friendly, and, as far as I am capable of judging, profound
in the law. He is to examine me on Saturday or Monday
on what I have read, and I am preparing accordingly. I
have heard him examine Noel yesterday on the practice,
and I find his examinations are critical. In a couple of
months I expect to be as far advanced in the practice as
Noel. I cannot bear that he should be before me. It
must not, it shall not be.
My health is perfectly restored, and I am now as well as
ever I was. I am happy to hear you grow belter. May
you soon be well enough to join me. The weather is so

Aged 24.] memoirs of aaron burr. 209
intensely hot, and I am so closely engaged in study, that I
cannot determine when I shaU pay you a visit.
Yours, &c.,
Robert Troup.

FROM colonel TROUP.
On the Rariton, 2l5t August, 1780.
My dear Burr,
The account I have given of my situation is far from a
fiction. You will find it a pleasing reality when you come
here, which I suppose you will postpone till you see me,
as I have no doubt at present that the second division of
the French fleet has arrived, with a re-enforcement of 4000
troops. This event will render il necessary for me to be
ready to move at a moment's warning ; and, presuming
there will be no delay in coraraencing our operations, I think,
in the course of a fortnight, or three weeks at most, I shall
be at Paramus.
Will your health permit you to join the army ? I fear
not. Fatigue and bad weather may ruin it. I confess I
am much disappointed in my opinion of the mineral waters.
From your letters, I conclude, the stock of health you have
gained since I left you is scarcely perceptible. Something
else must be tried. Life is precious, and deraands every
exertion and sacrifice to preserve it. Mr. Paterson and I
have often spoken together on this subject, and we both
agree that a ride to the southward next winter, and a trip
to the West Indies in the spring, would be of infinite ser
vice to you. This might be done with ease in five or six
months. Mrs. Paterson is perfectly recovered, and her little girl
grows finely, and promises to be handsome. Mrs. Pater
son often asks about you, and seems anxious to have you
among us. When you come, remeraber to bring wilh you
the book you took with you on our way to Paramus. I
believe it is an essay on health. Mrs. Paterson wants it.
Vol. I.— D d

210 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 24.
The idea you gave me of her is just. She is easy, poUte,
sensible, and friendly. Paterson is rather deficient in the
graces, but he possesses every virtue that enters into the
composition of an araiable character.
I can hardly go out anywhere without being asked a
nuraber of questions about you. You seem to be univer
sally known and esteemed. Mr. Morris's family are ex
ceedingly particular in their inquiries conceming your health.
It would be easier for you to conceive, than for me to tell you,
how much they Uke you. They insist upon our paying them
a visit as soon as you are settled here, which I have prom
ised, on your part as well as my own.
Lei me entreat you to avoid engaging any of your French
books in Connecticut, especially Charabaud's Exercises, to
any person whatever. I, and perhaps you, will stand ui
need of thera all.
I am greatly indebted to the good family for their favour
able sentiments, which, as I said once before, must proceed
more from affection to you than what they find raeritorious
in me. I am certain, however, that their esteem for me
cannot exceed mine for them, and this you wUl be kind
enough to hint to them when you present my respectful
compliments. Assure Dom. Tetard of my friendship for
him, and fixed determination to use edl endeavours to meta
morphose him into a Crassus after the war is ended. Adieu
Robert Troup,

Aged 24.] memoirs of aaron burr. 211

CHAPTER XIII.
FROM WILLIAM PATERSON.
Morristown, 27th August, 1780.
My dear Burr,
I was not al Rariton when the doctor, who was the bearei
of your letter, passed that way. It would have given me
pleasure to have shown him every raark of attention and es
teem in my power.
I dare say you count it an age since I have written
you ; and, indeed, I must confess that the time has been
long. Your good-nature, however, will induce you to for
give rae, although I cannot expect it from your justice; I
hope the water you drink will prove medicinal, and soon
restore you lo health ; although I am more disposed to think
that it will take time, and be effected gradually. Persons
indisposed (I speak from experience) are generally impa
tient lo become weU, and that very impatience has a natm-al
tendency to prevent it. Do not be restless, my dear Burr ;
nor think that, because you do not get well in a month, or in
a season, you will not get well at all. The heat of this sum
mer has been intense, nor is it as yet much abated. Per
haps that too may have had some effect upon you. The
hale and hearty could scarcely bear up under it. May
health soon visit you, my good friend.
Mrs. Paterson is well. Our little pledge, a girl. Burr,*
has been much indisposed, but is at present on the mending
hand. I ara frora horae as usual. My official duly obliges
me to be so. I grow quite uneasy under it, and I find ease
and retireraent necessary for the sake of ray constitution,
which has been somewhat broken in upon by unceasing at-
» The lady of tha Hon, Stephen Van Rensselaer.

212 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 24.
tention to business. The business has been too much for
me. I have always been fond of solitude, and, as it were,
of stealing along through life. I ara now sufficiently fond
of domestic life. I have every reason to be so. Indeed, I
know no happiness but at home. Such one day wiU be your
situation. My compUments to the faraily at the Hermitage. I shaU
write you before I leave this place.
Yours, &c.
William Paterson.
from william paterson.
Morristown, 31st August, 1780.
My DEAR Burr,
It is now near the midnight hour, and yet, late as it is, I
could not acquit myself to my conscience if I had not again
-written you before I left this place, which wiU be early to
morrow. My life is quite in the militant style — one contin
ued scene of warfare. From this place I go down to the
Supreme Court at Trenton, which will be on Tuesday next,
and the Tuesday after that I shaU return once more to
Morristown, and when I shall leave it wiU be uncertain. I
rejoice when the hour of rest comes up, and sicken at the
approach of day. Business fairly bears me down. The
trath is, that I am tired of writing, tired of reading, tired of
bustling in a crowd, and, by fits, heartily tired of myself.
I hope you go on gaining strength, emd that you will in a
little while get the better of your disorder. The mind and
the body affect each other extremely. To a person in your
state, hUarity, cheerfulness, a serene flow of spirits, are bet
ter than all the drugs in a doctor's shop. Gentle exercise is
of infinite service. I hope you are not wanting in any of
these. If you are, I cannot easily pardon you, because they
are all within your power.
Make my compUments acceptable to the family at the.
Hermitage. I have a high regard for them, and sincerely

Aged 24.J MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 213'
wish their happiness. I reaUy pity and admire Mrs. Pre
vost. Her situation demands a tear ; her conduct and de
meanour the warmest applause. Tell Mrs. Prevost that she
must remeraber rae among her friends ; and that I shaU be
happy to render her all the service in my power.
Since I have been al this place I have had a letter from
Mrs. Paterson, who is well. Our little girl, who was indis
posed when I left home, is not worse. I flatter myself I
shall find her better when I retum. Alas, that I cannot be
more at home. A husband and a parent have a thousand
tendernesses that you know nothing of. Adieu, ray dear
Burr; live and be happy.
William Paterson.
from colonel troup.
Morristown, October 23d, 1780.
My DEAREST Friend,
I want words to express the pleasure I feel at the receipt
of yours of the 22d, by the boy who carae for your horse. It
relieved me frora a burden which had sunk ray spirits lower
than I recollect thera to have been by any calaraity I have
met with during the war. My imagination had crowded
my mind with a thousand melancholy reflections frora the
moraent I got your letler by Dr. Cutting, who, like a
raodern well-bred gentleraan, left it al my lodgings only
three days ago. Some evil genius certainly interrupts our
correspondence. I write letlers without nuraber, and yet
you seldom hear from me, and wheit you do, the letter is as
old as if it had corae frora the other side of the Atlantic. It
is exactly the case with yours.
Mr. Paterson has been more unfortunate than I. He has
often complained of your neglect, as he thought it ; but I
informed hira of the fate my letlers shared, and he was
easy. However, he desired me last night to give you a hint,
that he had lately written you several long letlers without
receiving an answer to either. He is now at Princeton, at-

214 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 24.
tending court. I shall forward your letter that accompanied
mine to him by a safe conveyance. Paterson really loves
you with the tenderest affection, and can scarcely speak of
your state of health without shedding a friendly tear. As
God is my judge, I could not forbear shedding several
when I read yours by Dr. Cutting, which is the first I have
had from you in near five weeks. I was afraid aU farther
attempts to recover your health, so as to qualify you to exe
cute our plan, would be fruitless. In short, I lliought you on
the brink of eternity, ready to lake your final farewell of this
wrangling, world. The critical situation of your sister m-
creased my distress, and extinguished every hope. How
much more happy should I be if your sister's health took
the same fortunate turn. Your ride to Litchfield must be
doubly agreeable, as it will tend to establish your health and
better hers.
I raust now communicate to you a disagreeable piece of
news respecting rayself. It shows how rare it is to find a
man of real disinterested benevolence. Sears and Broome,
I understand by Mr. Noel, who returned from Philadelphia
a few days ago, have protested the bill I drew upon them
last suraraer. Colonel Palfrey bought it, and has it returned
to him, for what reasons I cannot say positively, but I sus
pect they are determined not to assist me, although they
were lavish of their offers when they supposed I never
would be reduced lo the necessity of accepting them. Such
conduct is characteristic of excessive raeanness of spirit, and
I confess I ara deceived in ray opinion of them most egre
giously. True it is, that instances of this kind of behaviour
often occur in our intercourse wilh mankind ; but, from the
fortunes these men have made since the war, and the fre
quent reports of their generosity, I was led lo imagine there
was something more than mere idle compliraent and osten
tatious parade in their offers. I was deceived, and I hope it
will be the last lirae. This affair has wounded ray pride so
sensibly, that I shall be extreraely cautious in future. I must

Aged 24.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 215
and wiU endeavour to adopt sorae mode of drawing supplies
from my certificates, which will be three years old next
spring, and therefore ought to be taken up by Congress
By the table of depreciation published by Congress to regu
late the payment of the principal of their certificates, I am
entitled to three hundred and fifty pounds, at the very low
est calculation, and this sum in specie.
When you come here you must exert aU your abilities
in finance, to make rae no longer dependant upon the bounty
of friends ; or rather, I should say, your bounty, for you are
the only person I have borrowed raoney of. Till that tirae,
my dear friend, can you keep me above water, and do jus
tice to yourself? WiU you be able to extricate me from the
difficulties attending this bill ? In plain terms, can you spare
me the amount of it ? My reputation suffers by having the
bill protested, and I must, in a short time, send the raoney
to Colonel Palfrey, for I am persuaded I have no farther
ground to expect the least assistance from Sears and
Broome. Fail not, by any raeans, to write me on this sub
ject before you leave Peuramus, and be careful how you
send the letter.
There is nothing but your health and my poverly that
retards ray progress in study. They are fruitful sources of
disquietude. When I lay rae down to sleep, they often pre
vent rae from closing my eyes. When I look into a book,
they present a variety of melancholy images to my iraagina
tion, and unfit rae for iraproveraent. In all other respects
I am situated to ray wishes. Paterson treats me as a bosom
friend. He has gone so far as lo press me in the warmest
terms to comraand his purse. How I shall be able to re
quite your friendship is a matter beyond ray penetration. I
declare, before the Searcher of all hearts, that I consider
your happiness and welfare as inseparable from my own,
and that no vicissitudes of fortune, however prosperous or
calamitous they may be, will ever tear you from my heart.
Circumstanced as I now am, words are the only proofs I can

216 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 24.
give you of my gratitude and affection. Time will prove
whether they are the cant of hypocrisy or the language of
esteem. I lent your horse to Mrs. Paterson about a week ago, to
carry her to Elizabethtown to see her brother, who was lo
meet her there frora New- York ; and disappointments in not
seeing him, from day to day, have detained her much longer
than was expected, and it is probable that she will not return
until Thmrsday next ; I have therefore sent the boy down
to Elizabethtown, or, more properly, shaU send him in the
morning, with Mr. Noel's horse, which will answer full as well
in the wagon. This change will produce no inconvenience
al all, and is better than to (fetain the boy tUl Mrs. Paterson
returns. She was exceedingly well when she left home, and
so was her little girl, which is handsome, good-tempered, fat,
and hearty. I am very particular in presenting her your
respects, and she is as particular in inquiring about you.
Bring all the French books you can from Connecticut,
particularly Charabaud's Exercises, and all the other ele
mentary books you have. I should be fond of having the
perusal of Rousseau's Social Corapact, if you can borrow it
of Mrs. Prevost for rae. I am quite rusty in the French,
for I have neglected it totally for two or three months.
The business of the office has engrossed so much of my
attention, that I have not lately read any other book but
Blackstone. I am still in the third volume. I digest thor
oughly as I advance. I have unravelled all the difficulties
of the practice, and can do coramon business wilh tolerable
dexterity. The horse will be delivered to you without a saddle.
Gales, a young fellow who was studying with Mr. Pater
son, requested me to lend il to him to ride as far as New
ark last August, and he ran off to New- York, and I never
could gel the saddle again. This piece of villany I could
not foresee, and it surprised almost as much as Arnold's.
The grass has been very short, and I fancy the horse will

Aged 24] MEMOIRS of aaron burr, 217
be leaner than you expect. He is a most excellent saddle-
horse. I am extremely sorry to hear Mrs. Prevost and her sis
ter are unwell. Remeraber me to them in the most friendly
manner. Give my compliments also to Dr. Latimer, and
all friends in the army near you. Don't forget Mrs. De
Visme, the children, Dom. Tetard, and the faraUy on the
hill, although I hear they are strongly prejudiced against
me. Mrs. Judith Watkins, as yoU well know, has spoken
maliciously. She is far frora being your friend. Every
thing that passed one day at dinner in confidence respect
ing our reception at her house, has been told to her and
her husband, with no sraall exaggerations, by some person
of the company. Govemor Bill Livingston related some
particulars that astonished me, and added, that he and Mr.
and Mrs. Watkins thought it cruel in you to put such an
unfair construction upon Watkins's behaviour to us. All
this talk is beneath our notice. What I said to ' Bill was
sufficient to erase any unfavourable irapression frora a
candid mind. If it has not produced that effect, any fur
ther attempt to refute the calumny will only serve to con
firm it.
Mrs. P. Livingston is here, and desires her respects to
you. She was glad to hear of the prospect you have of
growing hearty. She is an amiable woman, and loves you.
Your friend,
Robert Troup.
The preceding correspondence contains in itself a tolera
ble history of Colonel Burr's situation and eraployment
from the summer of 1779 until the autumn of 1780. -Afr-y
ter retiring from the army, he suffered most severely from \
ill health — that ill health was, in a great degree, produced I
by the fatigues and exposure on the 27th and 28th of June, /
1779, at the battle of Monmouth. His constitution was ,
feeble, and had been shattered by his unparalleled vigilance
Vol. I.— E e 10

218 memoirs of AARON BURR. [Aged 24
in the winter of 1778-79, whUe commanding the advanced
post in Westchester. But the battle of Monmouth seemed
to have given il the finishing stroke.
The letters of Judge Paterson and Colonel Troup afford
the best evidence of his ill health, and of their affectionate
devotion to him as friends. They are given at sorae length,
because they present rare and extraordinary exaraples of
fidelity in friendship. Both these gentlemen preceded
Colpnel Burr to the lorab. Both continued to respect, to
esteerrf, and to love hira, lo their last hour. Their character
requires no panegyric. Colonel Troup lived until the year
1832. In manhood, for more than half a century, he ven-
"*f?ated Colonel Burr for his genius, his talents, his chivalry,
his intrepidity of character, his disinterestedness, his gener
osity. "He deplore^ his weaknesses, and abhorred his
vices. But when he viewed the whole man, from youth to
more than threescore and ten years, he loved and respect
ed him. Bolh these distinguished citizens, as politicians,
were opposed lo Colonel Burr frora the yeeir 1788 until the
close of their lives.
In the autumn of 1780, Colonel Burr comraenced the
study of law with Judge Paterson, who resided at that
time on the Rariton, about twenty miles from Brunswick,
in New- Jersey. Here he remained till the spring of 1781.
The judge was a man governed by .fixed and settled rules.
In the application of these rules Colonel Burr found that
his study of the law would require much raore tirae to pre
pare him for an examination than be was willing lo devote.
He concluded that there must be a shorter mode to get al
the mechanical or practical part ; and, having determined to
make the experiraent, he left the office of Judge Paterson.
From New- Jersey, in the spring of 1781, he removed to
Haverstraw, then in Orange county. State of New- York.
Residing al this place was Thomas Smilh, Esq., forraerly
of the city of New-York, and brother to WUliam Smith, the
king's attorney-general. Thomas Smith had a good law

Aged 24.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 219
library, which had been removed from the city into the
Highlands for safety. With Smith, Colonel Burr made
an arrangement to study on a plan of his own. By the
contract, for a specified sum to be paid, Smith was to de
vote certain portions of his time to Burr. At these inter
views, he was to answer such questions as Burr propounded.
The answers were taken down in writing, and forraed the
basis of additional interrogatories ; while, at the sarae lime,
they aided in directing his attention to those legal points or
authorities which were necessary for him to examine or
read. During the tirae he reraained at Haverstraw, he
studied from sixteen to twenty hours a day.
In the sumraer of 1780, Major Andre, of the British
army, was in correspondence with Mrs. Arnold (the wife
of General Arnold), under a pretext of supplying her, from
the city of New-York, with millinery and other trifling arti
cles of dress. On the 23d of September, 1780, Major An
dre was captured, and the treason of the general discover
ed. When this news reached West Point, Mrs. Arnold
became, apparently, almost frantic. Her situation excited
the sympathy of some of the most distinguished officers in
the American army. Mrs. Arnold, having obtained from
General Washington a passport, and permission lo join her
husband in the city of New-York, left West Point, and on
her way slopped at the house of Mrs. Prevost, in Paramus,
where she stayed one night. On her arrival at Paramus the
frantic scenes of West Point were renewed, and continued
so long as strangers were present. Mrs. Prevost was
known as the wife of a British officer, and connected with
the royalists. In her, therefore, Mrs. Arnold could confide.
As soon as they were left alone Mrs. Arnold became
tranquillized, and assured Mrs. Prevost that she was heartily
sick of the theatrics she was exhibiting. She stated that
she had corresponded with the British comraander — that she
was disgusted with the Araerican cause and those who had
the management of public affairs — and that, through great

220 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 24.
persuasion and unceasing perseverance, she had ultimately
brought the general into an arrangement to surrender West
Point to the British. Mrs. Amold was a gay, accoraplished,
artful, and extravagant woman. There is no doubt, there
fore, that, for the purpose of acquiring the means of gratify
ing an inordinate vanity, she contributed greatly to the utter
ruin of her husband, and thus doomed to everlasting infamy
and disgi-ace all the farae he had acquired as a gallant sol
dier al the sacrifice of his blood. Mrs. Prevost subse
quently became the wife of Colonel Burr, and repeated to
him these confessions of Mrs. Amold.
The preceding statement is confirmed by the following
anecdote. Mrs. Arnold was the daughter of Chief-justice
Shippen, of Pennsylvania. She vi'as personally acquainted
with Major Andre, and, it is believed, corresponded with him
previous to her raarriage. In the year 1779-80, Colonel
Robert Morris resided at Springatsbury, in the vicinity of
Philadelphia, adjoining Bush Hill. Some time previous tc
Arnold's taking coramand of West Point, he was an appli
cant for the post. On a particular occasion Mrs. Arnold
was dining at the house of Colonel Morris. After dinner, a
friend of the family came in, and congratulated Mrs. Arnold
on a report that her husband was appointed to a different,
but raore honourable coramand. The information affected
her so much as to produce hysteric fits. Efforts were raade
lo convince her that the general had been selected for a
preferable station. These explanations, however, to the as
tonishment of all present, produced no effect. But, after
the treason of Arnold was discovered, the family of Colonel
Morris entertained no doubt that Mrs. Amold was privy to,
if not the negotiator for, a surrender of West Point to the
British, even before the general had charge of the post.
In the autumn of 1781 Colonel Burr left Haverstraw and
went to Albany, with a determination to make an effort lo be
admitted to the bar. He continued his studies with the
most untiring industry. He had his own apartments and

Aged 25.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 221
his own library, sleeping, when he did sleep, in a blanket
on the fioor. _
Colonel Burr's liberality in pecuniary matters had tend\
ed to impair his private fortune. No man possessed a morey
benevolent heart. The following letter presents one easel
out of many which might be enumerated, evincing his gen- i
erosity, and the delicate manner in which he could confer a
favour. Major Alden had become embarrassed in his cif-
curastances, and was greatly at a loss for a profession, at
the approaching close of the war, iy which he raight ac
quire a decent support. These refiections rendered him
gloomy and desponding. At length he unbosomed himself
to Colonel Burr, who thus replies to his letter : —
TO MAJOR R. ALDEN. Rariton, February 15th, 1781.
Dear Sir,
If it will solace your woes to know there is a heart that
feels them as ils own, that heart is mine. The thwarts oi
delicacy, which you would exclude from the catalogues ot
distress, are certainly the keenest humanity can feel. I
know their force. I have felt them in all their pungency.
• A want of uniformity in the mode and object of my pur
suit has been long my misfortune, and has, I fear, been
yours. There is a persevering firmness that wiU conquer
erabarrassraent, and, aided with the secret smile of an ap
proving conscience, cannot fail to put us above the power of
adversity. Thus " we shall shun misfortunes, or shall learn
to bear them."
I have ever found the raoraent of indecision to be the rao
raent of corapletest anguish. When our resolutions are ta
ken with deterrained firraness, they engross the mind and
close the void of misery. Yes, my friend, save the pang of
sympathy, I am happy. These are my halcyon days. Let
us taste them together. We shaU mutually heighten their
relish. Let us rescue some moments of rational enjoyment

222 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 25.
from the wreck of impetuous tirae. Friendslup shall smooth
the rugged path of science, and virtue cheer the way.
If law is your object, this situation is favourable to the
pursuit. You shall have access to the library and office,
without the customary expense. Your ostensible reason for
coming here shall be to pursue your studies with me, under
my friend Mr. Paterson. The two boys* I wish you to in
struct are of the sweetest tempers and the softest hearts.
A frown is the severest punishment they ever need. Four
hours a day will, I think, be fully sufficient for their instruc
tion. There are hours enough left for study — as many as
any one can improve lo advantage ; and these four will be
fully made up to you by the assistance you will derive from
such of us as have already made some small progress.
If it is possible, we live together. At any rate, you shall
live near me ; we shall at least meet every day, or oftener, if
we please. Nothing will interrapt us. We will regulate
our own amusements and pursuits. Here are no expensive
diversions of any kind. Your salary shall be a genteel
maintenance in such a situation. You shall have sixty
pounds. New- York currency, which is more than I expend
here. You will find it irapossible to spend a farthing except
board and clothing. If, from this short sketch, you think
the situation adapted to your views, of which I feel a pleas
ing assurance, acquaint me iraraediately, that I may pre
pare for your reception.
I purpose bringing the boys here the beginning of April.
Be here by that time, if possible. Get Mr. Thaddeus Burr
to enclose your letter to Loudon the printer, who will be
careful lo forward it to rae. How could I write to you
How divine your residence ? Never again harbour, for a
moment, a surmise that derogates frora ray sincerity.
* The sons of Mrs. Prevost, Frederick and John B. The latter was Judge
Prevost, of Louisiana. Mrs. Prevost was unable to expend such a sum on these
young gentlemen. It was a means adopted by Colonel Burr delicately to assist,
from his own purse, a desponding son of science. Similar instances of his lib
erality, in the course of his life, were numerous.

Aged 25.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 223
My health is nearly established. I have not enough to
despise the blessing, but enough to relish every enjoyment
of life. Adieu, my friend ; may that cheerfulness of which
you have been robbed return, and be as permanent as your
merit or my affection.
A. Burr.
FROM THOMAS SMITH.
Haverstraw, Ist March, 1781.
Dear Sir,
The preparations at New- York look this way, and that
inclines me to seek an asylum in New-Jersey, any part of
which I believe will be safe, if Hudson's river is the object
ofthe enemy. If I could get Mrs. De Visme's place, it would
be most agreeable to Mrs. Smilh. A few weeks will deter
mine me, and then I shall be in a situation to give you and
Colonel Troup every assistance in my power. As it is
your object to fit yourselves as soon as possible for adrais
sion to the bar, without submitting to the dradgery of an at
torney's office, in which the advancement of the student is
but too often a secondary consideration, I should cheerfully
devote a sufficient part of my lime to lead you through the
practice of the law' in all its parts ; and make no doubt, with
close application on your part, I should be able in a short time
to introduce you to the bar, well qualified to discharge the
duties of the profession, with honour to yourselves, and safety
to your clients.
My library is now in a situation to be removed. Two
boxes are missing, and I fear have fallen a sacrifice to the
liberty of the times. I only wait till the roads will permit
me to remove the remainder down, as I think my books by
no means safe where they now are, if the forts should be
attacked. Your obedient servant,
Thomas Smith.

224 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 25.
At this period Colonel Burr was closely engaged in his
studies. His constitution was somewhat renovated. His
correspondence now became limited, and was principally
confined to Mrs. Prevost. Here again the peculiarity al
ready referred to was in full operation. The greater part
of this correspondence is in cipher- But portions of it that
are not thus written are highly interesting, and give evi
dence that Mrs. Prevost possessed a cultivated raind. Her
health was very feeble, and continued so, after she becarae
the wife of Colonel Burr, until her decease. Some extracts
from her letlers will be given.
FROM MRS. PREVOST. Litchfield, February 12lh, 1781
I am happy that there is a post established for the win
ter. I shall expect to hear from you every week. My ill
health will not permit me to return your punctuality. You
must be contented with hearing once a fortnight.
Your opinion of Voltaire pleases me, as it proves your
judgment above being biased by the prejudices of others.
The English, from national jealousy and enmity to the
French, detract him. Divines, with more justice, as he ex
poses himself to their censure. It is even their duty to con
temn his tenets ; but, without being his disciple, we mav do
justice to his merit, and admire him as a judicious, inge
nious author.
I will not say the same of your system of education.
Rousseau has completed his work. The indulgence you
applaud in Chesterfield is the only part of his writings I
think reprehensible. Such lessons from so able a pen are
dangerous to a young mind, and ought never to be read tUl
the judgment and heart are established in virtue. If Rous
seau's ghost can reach this quarter of the globe, he wUl cer
tainly haunt you for this scheme — 'tis striking al the root of
his design, and destroying the main purport of his admira
ble production. Les foiblesses de I'humanile, is an easy

Aged 25.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 225
apology ; or rather, a license to practise intemperance ; and is
particularly agreeable and flattering to such practitioners, as
it brings the most virtuous on a level with the vicious. But
I ara fully of opinion that it is a rauch greater chimera than
the world are willing to acknowledge. Virtue, like religion,
degenerates to noihing, because it is convenient to neglect
her precepts. You have, undoubtedly, a mind superior to
the contagion.
When all the world turn envoys, Chesterfield will be their
proper guide. Morality and virtue are not necessary quali
fications — those only are to be attended to ihat tend to the
public weal. But when parents have no ambitious views,
or rather, when they are of the raore exalted kind, when they
wish to forra a happy, respectable raeraber of society — a
firm, pleasing support to their declining life, Emilius shall
be the model. A man so formed musl be approved by his
Creator, and more useful to mankind than ten thousand mod
ern beaux.
If the person whose kind partiality you mention is Pater
son, I confess myself exceedingly flattered, as I entertain
the highest opinion of the perspicuity of his judgment. Say
all the civil things you please for his solicitous attention to
my health. But if it should be Troup, which I think more
probable, assure him of my most permanent gratitude.
Affectionately,
Theodosia Prevost.

FROM MRS. THEODOSIA PREVOST.
Litchfield, 6th March, 1781.
-Where can  be ? Poor suffering soul ; worthy

a better fate. Heaven preserve him for his own sake ; for
his distressed mother's. I pity her frpm my heart, and la
ment my inabUity to aUeviate her sorrows. I invoke abet
ter aid. May her " afflicted spirit find the only solace of
its woes" — Religion, Heaven's greatest boon to man ; the
Vol. I.— F f 10*

226 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 25
I only distinction he ought to boast. In this, he is lord of the
creation ; without it, the most pitiable of all created things.
I How strangely we pass through life ! All acknowledge
themselves mortal and immortal ; and yet prefer the trifles
of to-day to the treasures of eternity. Piety teaches resig
nation. Resignation without piety loses ils beauty, and
sinks into insensibility. Your beautiful quotation is worth
raore than all I can write in a twelveraonth. Continue wri
ting on the subject. It is bolh pleasing and improving.
The better I ara acquainted wilh it, the more charras I find.
Worlds should not purchase the little I possess. I proraise
myself many happy hours dedicated at the shrine of reli
gion. Yours, affectionately,
Theodosia Prevost.
FROM MRS. theodosia PREVOST.
Litchfield, May, 1781.
Our being the subject of much inquiry, conjecture, and
calumny, is no raore than we ought to expect. My atten
tion to you was ever pointed enough to attract the observa
tion of those who visited the house. Your esteera more
than compensated for the worst they could say. When I
am sensible I can make you and myself happy, I wiU
readily join you to suppress their raalice. But, till I etra
confident of this, I cannot think of our union. Till then I
shall take shelter under the roof of my dear mother, where,
by joining stock, we shaU have sufficient to stem the torrent
of adversity.
' You speak of my spirits as if they were al my comraand,
or depressed only frora perverseness of teraper. In these
you raistake. Believe rae, you cannot wish their return
more ardently than I do. I would this moment consent to
become a public mendicant, could I be restored to the same
tranquUUty of raind I enjoyed this time twelvemonth.
The influence my letters may have on your studies is

Aged 25.] memoirs op aaron burr. 227
imaginary. The idea is so trite that I was in hopes it was
worn from your mind. My last year's trials are vouchers.
I was always -writing wilh a view to please you, and as
often failed in the attempt. If a desire for my own happi
ness cannot restore me to myself, pecuniary motives never
can. I wish you to study for your own sake ; lo ensure
yourself respect and independence ; to ensure us the com
forts of life, when Providence deigns- to fit our hearts for
the enjoyment. I shall never look forward with confidence
till your pride extends lo that. I had vainly flattered ray
self that pride was inseparable to true love. In yours I find
my error ; but cannot renounce my idea of its being a neces
sary support to, and the only security for, permanent affec
tion. You see by the enclosed how ready my friends are to
receive you, and promote your interest. I wish you may
be fortunate in executing aunt Clark's business. My
health and spirits are neither better nor worse than when
you left me. I thank you for your attention to Bird's pre
scription. Adieu,
Theodosia Prevost.
FROM MRS. theodosia PREVOST.
Sharon, September llth, 1781.
My friend and neighbour, Mr. Livingston, will have the
pleasure of presenting you this. You wiU find him quite
the gentleman, and worthy your attention.
Enclosed is a letter to my sister, which must be delivered
by yourself. You know my reasons too well to infer from
my caution that I entertain the least doubt of Mr. Living
ston's punctuality.
Monsieur Tetard is gone to the manor, summoned by
Mrs. Montgomery, on pretence of his being the only survi
ving witness to the general's -will. The business that was
to have detained him but a few days has kept him these six
weeks. I cannot account for his delay, unless his extrav%-

228 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 25.
gant encoraiums on the progress of a friend of yours has
proved a stimulation to those of superior talents. He ex
aggerates exceedingly in extolling his pupUs. Those whose
expectations are raised from his description must prepare
theraselves for disappointment.
Mr. and Mrs. Reeve were well a few days ago. She
rides every morning to visit the boy, and retums before
breakfast. I fear they wiU disappoint me in the promised
visit. We were obliged to Dr. Cutting for the most pleasing ac
count of your health and spirits. Also, of your great prog
ress in law. Judge Hobart expects Colonels Burr and
Troup will raake his suite to the October court, where he
hopes to usher thera, with all the eclat due to their raerit.
He counts the weeks, which he has now reduced to five.
While the warrath of friendship animates his countenance,
his heart swells wilh pride at the honour of patronising two
such characters. He must not be disappointed ; this raust
be the route, or he wiU believe himself slighted. I am
obliged lo his zeal, as it will procure us the pleasure of see
ing you. The sight of an old acquaintance is quite a phe
nomenon. I am not surprised that genuine hospitality is
fled to cottages. You will find it a la rustique chez votre
amie.
Theodosia Prevost.
FROM major R. ALDEN.
Fairfield, 28th February, 1781.
Dear Burr,
Your letter of the 15th inst. pleases me. You have a
heart that feels : a heart susceptible of tender friendship.
Life has not a single charm to compare with such sensa-
tipns. You know too well how to excite such emotions.
Happy for us. These expel the keenest pangs. There is
no such thing as real happiness. At best, it is but a delu-

Aged 25.] memoirs of aaron burk. 229
sion. We make our own pleasures as we do our troubles.
Friendship will heighten the one and moderate the other.
I have been tortured with the anxiety of suspense. It
has given me the most poignant distress. It disordered my
mind ; at limes, almost drove me to despair. Sorae of ray
friends saw the effect, but could not conjecture the cause.
You alone could penetrate the feelings of ray heart; you
alone are in possession of that evidence which will convict
me of my weakness ; my want of fortitude. I dare intrust
you. I feel the influence of your friendship. To a heart
like yours, this will prove the sincerity and affection of mine.
I bid adieu to camp, having completed ray business,
wilh ray thanks lo our worthy commander-in-chief for his
attention lo my character. The discharge he gave me
equalled my wishes and exceeded my expectations. I have
enjoyed the most rational satisfaction for three days past. I
have coraraenced student. Dr. Johnson has given me my
plan of studies, and free access to his library. My ambition
is not great, nor my views unbounded. I shall proportion
the means to the object. If I persevere with attention, I
have something more than wishes to build upon. Nothing
within the compass of ray abilities, that is justifiable, will be
left untried, to gratify my reasonable desires.
I know that your request proceeded entirely from your
friendship for me, and that you fell happy that it was in
your power to oblige me. I feel the force of your kind
ness, but must deny myself the pleasure of spending some
months with my friend. My time is short; age presses
upon me. Four years have been devoted to my country,
for which I have received no compensation.
It gives me pleasure to hear that your health is such
that you can be thankful for the blessing, and are in a
situation to enjoy yourself in the pursuit of your studies.
My heart is sincerely interested in your happiness. Let
me know your feelings, that I may know how to refine
mine. Your friendship and letters add a continual charm

/,

230 memoirs of aaron burr [Aged 25.
to my life, and will always please the heart and secure the
affection of, yours, With sincerity,
R. Alden.

TO MRS. PREVOST.
Albany, Sth June, 1781.
I was absent when yours of the 10th ultimo came, and
therefore did not receive it till the first inst. You may be
assured  will one day repent his insolence. Uniformity
of conduct and great appearance of moderation are all that
can be put in practice immediately. The maxira of a man
whom neither of us esteem very highly is excellent on this
occasion — " Suaviter in modo, fortiter in re." See, my
dear Theodosia, what you bring upon yourself by having
once piddled at Latin. The maxim, however, would bear
sheets of comment and days of reflection. I second the
just pride of  , in being averse to crouch to a villain.
Your letler to E. would have every influence that mine
possibly could.
These crosses are of that class which, though they may
perplex for a moment (a moment is too much), yet cannot
affect our real happiness. That mind is truly great which
can bear with equaniraity the trifling and unavoidable vexa
tions of life, and be affected only by those events which
determine our substantial bliss. Every period, and every
situation, has a portion of these trifling crosses ; and those
who expect to avoid them all, or conquer them all, must be
wretched without respite. Witness  . I am half vexed
at the raanner in which you speak of what you term " the
sorrows of  ." They are just of this trifling kind. Say
and think no more of them. Their impression was mo
raentary, and is long past.
G.'s uniforraity of conduct for sorae tirae has established
his character, and crushed the malice of his enemies. He
has, however, mingled some address in his deportment —

Aged 25.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 231
has made visits, and some acts of civility, to his avowed
enemies, by which means ,^he has gained ^ome and silenced
others. His whole conduct, his language, and even his
thoughts, seem to have in view the happiness of  . I
believe this idea is impressed on him every hour of his life.
Yours, A. Burr.
TO CHIEF-JUSTICE MORRIS. Albany, 21st October, 1781.
Sir,
I do myself the honour to enclose you several letters,
which were intended, I believe, to introduce me to your
acquaintance, perhaps to your friendship. I am particularly-
unfortunate to see neither Mr. Hobart nor yourself on the
present occasion ; the more so, as I find a rule of unex
pected rigour, which, if strictly adhered to, must effectuaUy
exclude me frora this bar. Mr. Judge Yates gives me rea
son to hope this rule may be enlarged. ,If it should be
deemed unadvisable to make one of such latitude as raay
include me within a general description, perhaps my par
ticular situation may be thought to claim particular indul
gence. Before the revolution, and long before the existence of
the present rule, I had served sorae time with an attorney
of another state. At that period I could have availed my
self of this service ; and, surely, no rule could be intended
to have such retrospect as to injure one whose only mis
fortune is having sacrificed his time, his constitution, and
his fortune, to his country. )
It would give me sensible regret were ray adraission to
establish a precedent which might give umbrage to the
bar ; but, should your opinion accord with ray wishes, with
respect lo the indulgence due to my particular case, the ex
pression of it, to any gentleman of the profession, would
doubtless remove the possibility of discontent.

232 MEMOIRS or aaron burr. [Aged 25.
Perhaps I assume a freedom which personal acquault-
ance only could, vwirrant. I beg, sir, you wiU ascribe it to
the reUance I ara taught to place on your goodness, and
the confidence with which your character inspires even
those who have no other title to your notice.
Whatever raay be the success of ray present designs, I
shall do myself the honour of waiting on you, and assuring
you, in person, of the respect and esteem with which
I am your obedient servant,
A. Burr.
Colonel Burr frequently impressed upon those with whom
he was in the habit of a regular correspondence, the advan
tage of committing to paper daily, in the form of a journal,
such thoughts or ideas as occurred and were deeraed desira
ble lo repeat. He adopted this form in his coraraunications
with Mrs. Prevost. The following is a specimen : —
Albany, Thursday, December 3d, 1781.
I am at length arrived al ray destined haven, and, what is
very unusual for rae, have been successful in several trivial
circumstances, such as geiting over the ferry (which is diffi
cult at this season), finding temporary quarters for my che
vaux without difficulty or delay. I cannot help' regarding
these as harbingers of good luck. I am, however, not for
tunate in finding Judge Yates. He is frora horae. G. civil,
but unwell. The room proraised rae is not fitted; must
therefore seek other lodgings. Bon soir. Visit me in my
slumbers. Friday night, December 4th.
Till sunset I was in doubt whether I should not be obli
ged to leave Albany for want of quarters. Have at length
found tolerable. No price yet fixed. Probably not less
than trois piasters the week. A day completely lost, and I,
of course, in ill humour with every thing but thee.

Aged 25.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 233

Saturday, December Sth.
A sick headache this whole day. I earned it by eating
last night a hearty supper of Dutch sausages, and going to
bed immediately after. I am surprised it did not operate in
the way of my disorder, which was formerly the certain
consequence of every error in diet ; but no symptora of that,
though I was very restless.
I took the true Indian cure for the headache. Made a
light breakfast of tea, stretched rayself on a blanket before
the fire, fasted till evening, and then tea again. I thought,
through the whole day, that if you coiild sil by me, and
stroke ray head with your little hand, it would be well ; and
that, when we are formally united, far from deeming a return
of this disorder un malheur, I should esteem it a fortunate
apology for a day of luxurious indulgence, which I should
not otherwise allow myself or you.
Most unexpectedly, Lewis called upon me this evening,
civilly offered rae his house, and asked rae to dine. I was
wrong, I think, to accept his invitation, but this did not strike
me till I had engaged. Must dine there to-morrow.
Sunday, 6th December.
This is the third day in town, and no business done.
These two days past I have been studying the second vol
ume of Rousseau. G. is returned. He never appeared more
unlike himself. I was somehow uncommonly stupid, and,
would you believe it, even awkward. Said very little, and
that little with hesitation. You know there are days when
every thing goes against one. Paid little attention to any
body (that little, somehow, iU timed), and received stiU less
from them.
How could we forget Latiraer ? He has sung Theodo-
sia's praise araong the southern array in terras with which
her best friends must be pleased. He has also established
Vol. I.— G g

234 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 25.
the character of A. Burr. Quackenbush is determined to
be civil. Says his visits will be frequent.
.- Yates is returned. More of him to-morrow. An old,
/ weather-beaten lady. Miss Depeyster, has given the whole
history of Burr, and much of Theo., but nothing unfavour
able. In a place where Burr thought himself a stranger,
there is scarce any age or sex that does not, either from in -
formation or acquaintance, know soraething of him.
I am surprised I forgot to advise you to get a Franklin
fireplace. They have not the inconvenience of stoves, are
warra, save wood, and never sraoke. The cost will not be,
probably, more than ten or fifteen dollars, which will be
twice saved this winter in wood and comfort, and they may
be moved anywhere. If you have fears about brat,* I have
none. He will never burn himself but once ; and, by way
of preventive, I would advise you to do that for him. It
will be put up in a few hours by anybody. I am in doubt
whether it will be best to have it in the comraon room or
one of the back rooms. The latter will have raany advan
tages. You may then have a place sacred to love, reflec
tion, and books. This, however, as you find best; but that
you have one I am deterrained, unless you can give some
better reason against it than I al present know of. Indeed,
I would wish you had two. You will get them with no
trouble from the Salisbury furnace. It is of the first im
portance that you suffer as little as possible the present win
ter. It may, in a great measure, determine your health ever
after. I confess I have still some transient distrusts that
you set too little value on your own life and comfort. Re
member, it is not yours alone ; but your letters shall convince
me. I waive the subject.
I am not certain I shall be regularly punctual in writing
you in this manner every day when I get at business ; but
I shall, if possible, devote one quarter of an hour a day to
* Mrs. Prevost's youngest child.

Aged 25.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 235
you. In return, I demand one half of an hour every day
from you; more I forbid, unless on special occasions. This
half hour is lo be mine, to be invariably at the same time,
and, for that purpose, fixed at an hour least Uable to inter
ruption, and as you shall find most convenient. " Mine cannot
be so regular, as I only indulge rayself in it when I am fa
tigued wUh business. The children wUl have each their
sheet, and, at the given hour, write, if but a single word
Burr, at this half hour is to be a kind of watchword.
Monday, 7th December.
I keep always a memorandura for you, on which, when I
think of any thing at any tirae of day that I wish to write,
I raake a short note in a raanner which no other person
would understand. When I sit down to write I have noth
ing lo do but look at ray raemorandura. I would recora
mend the same to you, unless you rather choose lo -write at
the moment when you think of any thing.
I have continually felt some apprehensions about the suc
cess of Troup with the court. The Springs are but twenty-
eight miles from Albany ; I will raeet you there,
Phil. Van Rensselaer, whora I have never before seen,
has been to introduce hiraself, and tender his services of
every kind. He is of the most respectable and richest in
habitants. Tuesday, Sth December.
No place yet ; but, that time need not be lost, I have been
looking over Rousseau's 4th volurae. I iraagine  gath
ered thence his sentiraents on the subject of jealousy. If
so, he has grossly mistaken the ideas of Rousseau. Do you
discover a symptom of it ? Far otherwise. You see only
confidence and love. That jealousy for which you are an
advocate, he condemns as appertaining to brutes and sensu
alists Discard, I beseech you, ideas so degrading to true

236 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 25.
love. I am mortified with the reflection that they were ever
yours. I think  must have taken pains to have overlooked
the following paragraph, when, in enumerating the duties of
a woman towards a lover or husband, he makes it principal
ly lo consist " in respecting themselves, in order lo acquire
respect. How delightful are these privileges ! How respect
able are they ! how cordially do raen prize them, when a
woraan knows how to render them estimable." I fear 
will be convinced of this but loo late. I ara glad lo find, how
ever, that the idea so often urged (in vain) by me, is not a
mere vagary of my own brain, but is supported by so good
authority. Wednesday, 9th December,
I have this day made a feint at law. But, were ray Ufe at
stake, it could not coraraand ray attention. Thursday, 10th December.
We have about twelve or fourteen inches of snow. When
you read my letters I wish you would make minutes at the
time of such facts as require an answer ; for, if you trust
your raeraory liU the lirae of writing, you will orait half you
would otherwise say. Friday, llth December.
I really wish much to know the conduct of  . It is,
however, raore curiosity than anxiety. It would be childish
to buUd any part of one's happiness on a basis so unstable.
The Van Rensselaer before raentioned, and henceforth to
be designated by Ll., proves to be a phenomenon of goodness
and (can you beUeve it) even tenderness. Tenderness, I
hear you cry, in a HoUandois ! But hold your injustice ;
the character and fine heart of Van Rensselaer wiU, I think,
in future, remove your prejudice, especiaUy when you add
lo this his marked attention and civility.

Aged 25.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 237
Saturday, 12th December.
Van Rensselaer finds fault with my quarters, which, in
deed, are far removed from elegance, and, in some respects,
from convenience. He insists that I suffer him to provide
me better.
I have not hitherto had an hour of Yates. His reasons,
however, have been good. On Monday we are lo mangle
law.
Sunday, 13th December.
Van Rensselaer has succeeded perfectly to my wish. I
ara with two raaidens, aunts of his, obUging and (incredi ¦
ble ! !) good-natured. The very paragon of neatness. Not
an article of furniture, even to a teakettle, that would soil a
muslin handkerchief. I have two upper rooras. I was in
terrupted al the line above, and cannot now, for ray life, rec
ollect what I was intending to write. I leave it, however,
to plague you as it has done me. Monday, 14th December.
I really fear Yates is playing the fool with me. Still eva
sive, though plausibly so. I have just had an interview.
To-morrow I must and will come to a positive eclaircisse-
ment. I am determined, in future, when doubt arises in my raind
whether I shall write a thing or not, invariably lo write it. You
recollect -:;  's advising that Carlos* should learn the vio
lin. G. was unkind enough to reraind hira that he was for
merly opposed lo that opinion. There was a degree of in
sult in this reproach of which I did not think G. capable. I
truly believe he did not reflect on the tendency of it. I do
not reraember that he is apt to take such unfair advantage
of his friends. Happy they who can raake iraprovement of
each other's errors. The necessary, but dear-bought knowl-
• A negro boy belonging to Colonel Burr.

238 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 25.
edge of experience, is earned at double cost by those who
reap alone.
Since I left you, I have not taken pen in hand without in
tending to write you. I am happy in having done il, for I
now feel perfectly relieved. Tuesday, 15th December.
Yesterday was partly a day of business.' The evening
wholly and advantageously so. This day has been rather a
feint. Yates engaged. I beg ten thousand pardons of Miss
Depeyster ; she is our warm friend and advocate. One Bo
gart, at Tappan, is the scoundrel. Wednesday, 16th December.
I perceive this letter-writing will not answer ; though I
write very little, il is still half ray business ; for, whenever I
find myself either al a loss what to do, or any how discom
posed or dull, I fiy to these sheets, and even if I do not
write, I ponder upon it, and in this way sacrifice many
hours without reflecting that time passes away. Yates still
backward, but the day tolerably spent.
I have also been busy in fixing a Franklin fireplace for
myself. I shall have it completed to-morrow. I am re
solved you shall have one or two of thera. You have no
idea of their convenience, and you can at any time remove
them. I expect to despatch Carlos to-morrow. I think I have
already raentioned that I wrote you from Kinderhook, and
also this week by Colonel Lewis, enclosed to our friend at
Sharon. An engagement of business to-day and this evening with
Yates, prevents me preparing for Carlos as I expected.
A. Burr.

Aged 25.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr.

239

, CHAPTER XIV. \ \
In the autumn of 1781, as raay be seen by the preceding
correspondence. Colonel Burr was in Albany, preparing
hiraself for admission to the bar. Judge Yates rendered
him essential service on the occasion. His friendship and
kindness were appreciated, and gratefully recoUected. At
that time Chief-justice Richard Morris, Robert Yates, and
John Sloss Hobart comp*osed the bench of the Suprerae
Court of the State of New- York. AU these gentleraen
were friendly to Burr, and treated hira with the utmost
courtesy; but for Judge Yates he entertained, during the
continuance of his life, the most profound respect and ven
eration. By the rules of the court it was required that candidates
for admission should have pursued a course of legal studies
not less than three years previous lo presenting themselves
for examination. Colonel Burr applied to the court to dis
pense with this rule in his case. The application was op
posed with great zeal by all the members of the bar ; and,
as no counsellor would make the necessary motion on the
subject. Burr was not only compelled to do it hiraself, but
to argue the question with the ablest of the profession.
After hearing the argument, the court determined that,
as he had been employed in the service of his country,
when he raight, under other circumstances, have been a law-
student, they would dispense wilh the rigour of the rule so
far as it applied to the period of study; but that no indul
gence would be granted in reference to the necessary quali
fications. In pursuance of this decision he underwent a
severe and critical examination by some of the most emi
nent members of the bar, who were anxious for his rejec-

240 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [-^gcd 26.
tion. The examination, however, resulted in a triumphant
admission that the candidate was duly qualified to prac
tise ; and he was accordingly licensed as an attomey, on
the 19th day of January, 1782. And at "a supreme court
of judicature, held for the Stale of New-York, at the City
Hall of the city of Albany, on the 17th day of April, 1782,
Aaron Burr having, on examination, been found of compe
tent ability and learning lo practise as counsellor," it was
ordered that he be accordingly adraitted.
Soon after Colonel Burr coraraenced the practice of law
in the city of Albany, he invited his friend and brother sol
dier. Major W. Popham, to join him, and pursue a course of
legal studies. This invitation vVas given with his accus
tomed kindness. About the period of Burr's marriage,
Major Popham replies. FROM MAJOR W. POPHAM.* Fishkill, August 16th, 1782
Yesterday I was accidentally favoured with your friendly
letler of the 3d of May, from Litchfield, which was pecu
liarly agreeable, as it contained the first official accounts I
have had of you since ray leaving Albany, and dispelled a
train of gloomy reflections which your supposed long
silence had suggested.
The approbation you have given of my conduct, in an
affair in which you have so generously interested yourself,
is very flattering. A delaU of the circurastances which
rendered it necessary to postpone the prosecution of my
intended plan, would be too prolix for the subject of a let
ter. They would not present one pleasing reflection ; and
I love you too weU lo give you pain. Suspend, therefore,
your curiosity and your opinion, until the duties of the field
permit me to see you, when you shaU be satisfied.

* Major Popham, fifty-four years after the date of this letter, attended as a
pall-bearer the funeral of Colonel Burr, the friend of his youth.

Aged 25.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 241
I hope the alterations you have made in your plan of life
may equal your most sanguine wishes. I am pleased that
you have taken a house in Albany, and sincerely congratu
late you on an event that promises you so much happiness.
May you long enjoy all the blessings which can flow from
that happy state, for which Heaven has so remarkably de
signed you. I
But why am I requested to " say nothing about obliga
tions," while you continue to load me with new ones ? Or,
why should I be denied the common privilege of every lib
eral mind, that of acknowledging the obligation which I
liave not the power of cancelling ? Yes, my friend, your
generous offer claims my warmest thanks; but the very
principle which excites my gratitude forbids me. to accept it
Dr. L informs me you have written twice to me. One
of the letters is lost. Will you speedily supply the defi
ciency ? If you can spare an hour from business, retire
ment, or love, let me entreat you to devote it to your
friend. I cannot tell you how much I long to hear from
you. Adieu. Yours sincerely,
W. Popham.
TO MRS. PREVOST. Albany, December 23d, 1781.
My dear Theodosia is now happy by the arrival of Car
los. This was not wishing you a happy Christmas, but
actually making it so. Let all our compliments be hence
forth practical. The language of the world sounds fulsome
to tastes refined by the sweets of affection.
I see mingle in the transports of the evening the frantic
little Bartow.* Too eager to embrace the bliss he has in
prospect; frustrating his o-wn purposes by inconsiderate
haste ; misplacmg every thing, and undoing what he meant
? Mrs. Prevost's son.
Vol I.— Hh "

242 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 25.
to do. It wUl only confuse you. Nothing better can be
done than to tie him, in order lo expedite his own business.
That you might not be cheerful alone, I have obeyed the
orders of your heart (for you cannot, even at this distance,
conceal them) by a determination to lake a social, friendly
supper wilh Van Rensselaer.
You wrote me loo much by Dora. I hope il was not from
a fear that I should be dissatisfied wilh less. Il is, I con
fess, rather singular to find fault with the quantity, when
raatter and raanner are so delightful. You musl, however,
deal less in sentiments and more in ideas. Indeed, in the
letter in answer to my last, you will need to be particularly
attentive to this injunction. I think constantly of the ap
proaching change in our affairs, and what it demands. Do
not let us, Uke children, be so taken with the prospect as to
lose sight ofthe means.
Remeraber to write rae facts and ideas, and don't tor
ment me with compliraents, or yourself with sentiments lo
which I ara already no stranger. Write but little, and very
little al once. I do not know for what reason, Theodosia,
but I cannot feel ray usual anxiety about your health,
though I know you to be ill, and dangerously so. One
reason is, that I have raore belief in your attention lo your
self. Your idea about the water was raost delightful. It kept
rae awake a whole night, and led to a train of thoughts and
sensations which cannot be described. Indeed, the whole
of your letter was raarked with a degree of confidence and
reliance which augurs every thing that is good. The
French letter was traly elegant, as also that enclosed in com
pliance wilh my request.
If Reeves has received the money upon the order I gave
him, he may send me by Carlos about twenty-five guineas,
if he can spare so much of it. I ara in no present want.
Pardon rae for not answering your last. My mind is so en
grossed by new views and expectations, that I cannot disen-

Aged 26.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 243
gage It. I have not, these five days past, slept more than
two hours a night, and yet feel refreshed and weU. Your
presentiments of my illness on a certain evening were wide
from trath: believe me, you have no talent that way.
Leave it to others.
I think, if you keep Carlos two nights, it will serve ; but
keep him longer rather than fatigue yourself. Adieu. A. Burr.
On the 2d of July, 1782, Colonel Burr was married to
Mrs. Theodosia Prevost. In AprU preceding he had en- .
tered into the practice of the law in the city of Albany. His
attention lo business was Unremitted. In consequence, he
soon found himself crowded with clients from every quarter
of the stale. During his residence in Albany, his mind was
exclusively engrossed with his profession and his family. In
the education of Mrs. Burr's children by her first husband
he took a deep interest. Neither labour nor expense was
regarded. It was his wish that they should be accomplished,
as well as educated men.
The preliminary treaty of peace having been signed. Col
onel Burr resolved to remove his family to the city of New-
York so soon as the British should evacuate it. Here he
anticipated (and in this he was not disappointed) an exten
sive practice. On the 20th of November, 1781, the legis
lature of the Stale of New-York passed an act disqualifying
from practice, in the courts of the state, all " attorneys, soli
citors, and counsellors al law," who could not produce sat
isfactory certificates, showing their attachment and devotion
to the whig cause during the then pending war with Great
Britain. This act was in full force at the peace of 1783,
and remained so, without any atterapt to modify it, until
March, 1785, when a biU was introduced into the legisla
ture to repeal certain sections of it, so far as they operated
upon individuals therein named. The bill was lost. But,

244 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 27.
on the 4th of April, 1786, the restriction thus imposed on the
tory lawyers was removed by an act of the legislature.
The law of 1781, previous to its repeal, had operated most
favourably for the whig lawyers. Those of talents and
standing, such as Colonel Burr and others, had obtained a run
of business which enabled them to compete with the most
profound of their tory rivals.
It was supposed that the British troops would evacuate
the city of New- York in the spring or early in the summer
of 1783 ; but they remained untU the 25th of November of
that year. Colonel Burr applied to his friend, Thomas Bar
tow, to procure him a house for the accommodation of his
family, which he accordingly did.
FROM MR. BARTOW. New-York, AprU 16th, 1783.
Dear Sir,
I received your agreeable favour a few days ago, and am
happy to congratulate you on the establishment of a peace :
hope I shall soon have the pleasure of seeing you in town.
I have procured you a good house in Maiden-lane, al the
rate of two hundred pounds a year. The rent to commence
when the troops leave the city. Doctor Brown can inform
you more particulars about it, as he went with me to view
it. Before I engaged this house, I consulted Mrs. Clark
She proposed her house in Broadway, but could not get the
tenant out, so that she gave her consent to this.
Very respectfully yours,
Thomas Bartow.
from mrs. burr.
Albany, 25th March, 1783.
Some think absence tends to increase affection ; the greater
part that it wears it away. I believe neither, but that it only
tends to prove how far the heart is capable of loving ; or
rather, whether it is real or imaginary. When the latter.

Aged 27.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 245
every object that amuses, blots out the idea of the absent ,
we find that they are npt so necessary to our happiness as
we had fancied. But when that love is real, what can amuse,
what engage the mind, to banish, for a single instant, the
object of its delight ? It hates every necessity that wrests
it an instant from the contemplation of its beauties ; ils vir
tues are ever presenting themselves to increase our regret,
and suggest innuraerable fears for its safely. Such have
been the occupation* of this day. I trerable at every noise :
new apprehensions are ever alarming me. Every tender
sensation is awake lo thee. 26th March.
My extreme anxiety operated severely upon my health. I
have not had so ill a turn in sorae raonths. The remedies
of S. prove but little more efficacious than those of G. I do
without either. Various are the conjectures respecting your
errand. All think me of the party. My spirits need, my
heart grows irapatient for your return. Every countenance
speaks for you, while Theodosia grieve?.
I 27th March.
My health is rather better. I have just this raoment
heard of General Schuyler's going ; have only time to tell you
I rejoice at the enclosed. It wUl save your hurry and anx
iety Popham has written and engaged for your attendance
Theodosia Burr
When the British were about to evacuate the city of New-
York, and it was ascertained that Colonel Burr had made
the necessary arrangements to settle there, his whig friends
became anxious that he should receive an appointment.
Among those who urged this measure was Judge Hobart,
who had ever entertained an exalted opinion of his talents
and business habits. As soon as Colonel Burr was informed
of the friendly views entertamed by the judge, he wrote him,

246 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Agcd 27.
expressing his unwiUingness to be considered a competitor
with any gentleman for an appointment. To this he re
ceived an answer.

PROM judge hobart. June 17th, 1783.
Sir,
Your favour has been received. However pure your
views may be, I fear you must be contented wilh the char
acter of a private gentleman so long as you deterraine to
avoid a competition ; for I am told there are long lists of
appUcants for all the offices in the city and county of New-
York. With great respect, yours,
John Sloss Hobart.
from mrs. burr. Albany, August 14th, 1783.
How unfortunate, my dearest Aaron, is our present separa
tion. I never shcdl have resolution to consent to another.
We musl not be guided by others. We are certainly formed
of different materials ; and our undertakings must coincide
with them.
A few hours after I wrote you by Colonel Lewis, our
sweet infant* was taken ill, very ill. My mind and spirits
have been on the rack from that moraent to this. When
she sleeps, I watch anxiously ; when she wakes, anxious
fears accorapany every raotion. I talked of my love towards
her, but I knew it not till put to this unhappy test. I know
not whether to give her medicine or withhold it : doubt and
terror are the only sensations of which I am sensible. She
has slept belter last night, and appears more lively this
morning, than since her iUness. This has induced me to
postpone an express to you, which I have had in readiness
* The unfortunate Mrs. Alston, of whom much will be said hereafter.

Aged 28.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 247
since yesterday. If this meets you, I need not dweU upon
my wish.
I wiU only put an injunction on your riding so fast, or in
the heat, or dew. Remeraber your presence is to support,
to console your Theo., perhaps to rejoice wilh her at the
restoration of our much-loved child. Let us encourage this
hope ; encourage it, at least, tiU you see rae, which I flatter
myself will be before this can reach you. Sorae kind spirit
wiU whisper to my Aaron how much his tender attention is
wanted to support his Theo. : how much his love is neces
sary to give her that fortitude, that resolution, which nature
has denied her but through his mediura. Adieu, Theodosia,
FROM MRS. burr. New- York, March 22d, 1784.
My Aaron had scarce quitted the door when I regretted
my passiveness. Why did I consent to his departure ?
Can interest repay the sacrifice ? can aught on earth cora
pensate for his presence ? Why did I hesitate to decide ?
Ten thousand fears await me. What thought suggested
my assent ? The anxiety he might suffer were he to raeet
with obstacles to raising the sum required; should his
views be frustrated for want of the precaution this journey
might secure ; his mortification ; mine, al not having the
power to relieve him, were arguraents that sUenced ray long
ing wish to hold him near me ; near rae for ever. My Aaron,
dark is the hour that separates my soul from itself.
Thus pensive, surrounded with gloom, thy Theo. sat, be
wailing thy departure. Every breath of wind whistled ter
ror ; every noise at the door was mingled with hope of thy
return, and fear of thy perseverance, when Brown arrived
wilh the word — embarked — the wind high, the water rough.
Heaven protect my Aaron ; preserve him, restore him to his
adoring mistress. A tedious hour elapsed, when our son
was the joyful messenger of thy safe landing at Paulus Hook.

248 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 28.
Stiff with cold, how raust his papa have fared ? Yet, grate
ful for his safety, I blessed ray God. I envied the ground
which bore ray pilgrira. I pursued each footstep. Love
engrossed his mind ; his last adieu to Bartow was the raost
persuasive token — "Wait till I reach the opposite shore,
that you may bear the glad' tidings to your trembling
mother." 0, Aaron, how I thank thee ! Love in all ils
delirium hovers about me ; like opium, it lulls me to soft
repose ! Sweet serenity speaks, 'lis my Aaron's spirit pre
sides. Surrounding objects check my visionary charm. I
fiy to my room and give the day to thee. Theodosia.
to mrs. burr. Albany, October 29th, 1784.
Mr. Watts this instant acquaints me that he is just set
ting off for New-York. I run from court to waft you a
memorandum of affection. I have been remarkably well ;
was fortunate in my journey. The trial of Livingston and
Hoffman is now arguing. It began on Thursday of last
week, and will not conclude till to-night. No other business
has been or will be done this term. AU this cursed long
absence for nothing.
I cannot leave this till Sunday or Monday. Then to
Westchester Court. The return to joy and Theo. cannot
be till Thursday or Friday, and that depending on my busi
ness in Westchester. Miss Yates is on her passage to
New-York to spend eight or ten days.
I read your memorandum ten times a day, and observed
it as religiously as ever monk did his devotion. Yesterday
I bumt it. To me it seeraed like sacrilege.
I fear I did not caution you enough against sleeping in
the new house. For Heaven's sake (or rather for my sake),
don't think of it tiU I come and judge. I left you an im
mensity of trouble, which I fear has not promoted your
health. Kiss our dear little flock for me. Adieu.
A. Burr.

Aged 28.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 249
Late in the autumn of 1783 Colonel Burr removed from
Albany into the city of New- York. In the spring of 1784
he was elected a member of the state legislature. At that
early period political parties had not assumed either form or
shape. The simple and inteUigible terms of whig and tory
were universally used. Colonel Burr's mind was occupied
with his professional business. ' The legislature raet in the
city of New- York. He attended two sessions as a raeraber,
The first coraraenced on the 12th of October, 1784. He
was in the house only a sraall portion of the lime, and never
interfered in what might be considered the ordinary business
of the day. On great questions he took an active and de
cided part. His character for sagacity, discriraination, and
firnmess, was well established; and he would, therefore,
have possessed great influence, if such had been his object ;
but his ambition, at this lirae, was not political ; or, if it was,
he had determined to smother it " until a more convenient
season." The second session while he was a member comraenced
on the 27th of January, 1785. During this he was more
attentive than at the preceding session, but governed by the
same systera of poUcy, acting only when great and impor
tant questions were under consideration. On the 14th of
Febraary a joint committee of the two houses was appomt- \
ed to revise the laws of the state. Colonel Burr was chair
man of the committee on the part of the house. He intro
duced, on leave granted him, several important biUs, One
in relation to the public lands, another relative lo the titles
to real estate, &c. On the 25th of February a biU was
pending for the gradual abolition of slavery wiihin the State
of New-York. It provided that aU born after Us passage
should be born free. Burr moved to amend, and proposed
to insert a provision, that slavery should be entirely aboUsh-
ed after a day specified. His amendment being lost, he
voted for the biU as reported. He was a member of the
Vol. I,— I i H*

250 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 28.
legislature, and supported the law in 1799, by which, ulti
raately, slavery within the state was abolished.
The question upon which he look the most prominent
part related to an application of sorae tradesraen and me
chanics in the city of New-York for an act of incorporation.
The advocates of this bill had united their interest with
certain land speculators, and by these raeans it was suppo
sed both bUls raight be carried through the legislature.
Both, however, failed. Colonel Burr was the only raeraber
from the city of New-York that opposed what was termed
the Mechanics' Bill. His opposition produced so much feel
ing and exciteraent, thai a raan of less firraness would have
been driven frora his course. Riots were threatened, and
by raany it was supposed his house would be assaulted.
His friends volunteered their services to protect hira, but he
declined receiving their aid, averring that he had no fears of
any violation of the laws by raen who had raade such sac
rifices as the whigs had raade for the right of self-govern
ment, and that he could and would protect hiraself, if, con
trary to his expectations, it should becorae necessary. That
he was prepared lo resist any attack was universaUy known,
but none was atterapted, and perhaps for that reason.
The Mechanics' Bill passed the legislature late in Febra
ary, and was sent to the Council of Revision. At that tirae
the chancellor and the judges of the Suprerae Court forraed
a Council of Revision, and had a qualified negative on all
bills. If they considered a bill unconstitutional, they re
turned it to the house in which it originated, with their ob
jections ; after which, if it received the vole of two thirds
of both houses, it became a law. This bill was relurned on
the 9th of March by the council, -with their objections, and,
two thirds not voting in favour, il was lost. These objec
tions, in substance, were precisely what had been urged
against it by Colonel Burr on the fioor of the assembly.
The petitioners were forty-three in number. The biU
gave them unlimited powers in some particulars. It did not

Aged 28.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 251
incorporate their successors, only so far as they pleased to
admit them. They might hold landed estate in perpetuity
to an unlimited araount, provided their income did exceed
fifteen hundred pounds beyond their outgoings. Their by
laws were to be approved by the city corporation ; thus, by
rendering the one dependant on the other, either the me
chanics would influence the magistrates, and the powers of
the corporation of the city and county of New- York be
made, al some future day, instruments of monopoly and op
pression ; or, which was more probable, the corporation of
the city and county of New-York obtain a controUing power
over the mechanics, and thus add lo the extensive influence
which that corporation afready enjoyed, thereby rendering it
dangerous lo the political freedom of the people. Such
were sorae of the objections entertained and urged by Colp
nel Burr against this bUl. The great body of the corarau
nity were prepared to sustain hira ; and, before the succeed
ing session of the legislature, the intelligent araong the me
chanics were so well satisfied with the correctness of his
views, that a similar application was never afterward raade,
Frora the year 1785 until the year 1788, Colonel Burr
was unknown as a politician. His practice was extensive ^
and lucrative. His doraestic relations seeraed to occupy all
his leisure tirae. His family was large, and to direct the
education of his children was to hira the most delightful
employment. His zeal for their improvement is evinced in
some of the preceding letters. His own health was preca
rious, while that of Mrs. Burr caused hira constant alarm
and apprehension. He had but one child, a daughter ; but
the children of his wife by her first husband (Colonel Pre
vost) he reared as his own, and with all the tenderness of
an affectionate father. The subjoined letters present Mrs,
Burr in a most estimable point of view, whUe they cast
some Ught upon Colonel Burr's character as a parent and a
husband, They cannot be read, it is beUeved, by even the

252 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 29.
giddy and the thoughtless without feeling an interest in the
destiny of their writers.
In the office of Colonel Burr, as students, were his two
stepsons, Frederick and John Bartow. When absent from
home on professional or other business, one of thera fre
quently accorapanied him as an amanuensis. On these oc
casions all his instructions in relation to lawsuits in which
he was employed as counsel, or papers connected therewith,
were coraraunicated to the attorney or clerk in the office
through Mrs. Burr. She appeared to be held responsible
for the punctual and prompt perforraance of any duly re
quired of them. To him she was indeed a helpmate ; for
she not only had charge of his domestic concerns, but was
counseUed with, and intiraately associated in, all his business
transactions. TO MRS. BURR. Princeton, April, 1785.
I had just embarked in the stage al Paulus Hook when
I learned that it went no further than Newark ; so that, after
being three hours close packed with rabble, I trudged an hour
more lo find a conveyance lo Elizabethtown, where I arrived
at eight o'clock, chilled, fatigued, and with a surly head
ache. A comfortable bed and tea raade araends.
We arrived here at six o'clock this evening. I ara for
tunate in company, and find the travelling much less fa
tiguing than I imagined. Reraind Frederick of the busi
ness wilh Platt. Write me by the next post, and by every
stage. If I should even have left Philadelphia, I shall meet
the letters. Speak of Harriet, and sur tout des trois
Theo's. Adieu.
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Philadelphia, April, Saturday, 1785.
I did not write you on Friday, as promised in my letter
from Princeton, for which I wiU apologize when we meet.

Aged 29.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 253
I arrived here in good plight on Friday evening. Augus
tine carae down about noon on Saturday. We have raade
some satisfactory progress in our business. Seeing the
great raen of other countries puts rae in more conceit of
those of my own.
I shall be released on Tuesday evening, which wUl per
mit me to see thee on Thursday morning. Mr. Coll wUl
inform you about every thing. Unfortunately, a gentleman
with whora part of our business is has left town. If he
should retum to-raorrow raorning, I shall be the happiest
of swains on Wednesday raorning. I ara very rainute in
these calculations, because I raake them very often. Does
Theodosia employ herself ever in the same way ?
I have been to twenty places to find something to please
you, but can see noihing that answers my wishes ; you
will therefore, I fear, only receive
Your affectionate
A. Burr.
FROM MRS. BURR.
New-York, April, Saturday, 1785.
I persuade myself this is the last day you spend in Phil
adelphia. That to-morrow's stage will bring you to EUz
abethtown ; that Tuesday raorning you wiU breakfast with
those who pass the tedious hours regretting your absence,
and counting tirae tiU you retum. Even little Theo. gives
up her place on raamraa's lap lo lell dear papa — " corae
home." Tell Augustine he does not know how much he
owes me. 'Tis a sacrifice I would not make to any human
being but himself, nor even to him again. Il is the last
time of my life I submit to your absence, except from ne
cessity to the calls of your profession. All is well at home.
Ireson gone on his intended journey. Morris very little
here. The boys very attentive and industrious; much
more so for being alone. Not a loud word spoken by the

254 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 29.
servants. All, in silent expectation, await the return of
their rauch-loved lord ; but all faintly when corapared to thy
Theo.

TO MRS. BURR.
Since -writing to you last evening, every thing has con
spired lo harass and delay rae. I was really in hopes of
surprising you on Wednesday raorning ; but ara now raost
unfortunately and cruelly detained here till to-raorrow even
ing ; shall therefore, with the usual luck of stages, em
brace you on Thursday raorning.
I have been walking, in the course of this day, hunting
offices, records, &c., &c., above eight hours, and am not
fatigued. I raust really be very robust. Thine,
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Albany, April, 1785.
I arrived here on Tuesday evening very late, though Ut
tle fatigued. Wednesday afternoon I went with Sill to
Bethlehera (Nichols), drank lea, supped, and breakfasted.
I am pleased with our friend's choice, of which more next
Tuesday evening. I am vexed you were not of my party
here — that we did not charter a sloop. I have planned a
circuit with you to Long Island, with a number of pleasant
&C.S, which are also reserved to a happier moraent.
I shall succeed in all Mrs. Clarke's business except that
of the lands, in which I hope little.
I feel irapatient, and almost angry, that I have received
no letter frora you, though I really do not know of any op
portunity by which you could have written ; but it seeras
an endless whUe to wait tUl Saturday night before I can
hear from you. How convenient would a little of the
phlegm of this region be upon such occasions as these ! I
fear very rauch for our dear petite. I tell every one who
asks rae that both she and you are well, because I abhor

Aged 29.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 255
the cold, uninterested inquiries, which I know would be
made if I should answer otherwise. Do you want the pity
of such ? Those you thought your very good friends here
have forgotten you.
MademoiseUe Y. is very civU. Are the Wadsworths
wilh you? Have you not been tormented with some em
barrassments which I wickedly left you to struggle with ?
I hope you don't believe the epithet. But why these ques
tions, to which I can receive no answer but in person ? I
nevertheless fondly persuade myself that I shall receive
answers to ihera all, and raany raore about yourself, which I
have in raind, notwithstanding you will not have seen this.
There is such a syrapathy in our ideas and feelings, that
you can't but know what will raost interest rae.
Give Johnstone the enclosed raemorandura ; or, if he has
gone home, to Bartow ; the business is of importance, and
admits of no delay. Affectionately adieu,
A. Burr.

TO MRS. BURR.
Chester, Friday, May, 1785.
I arrived here about eleven o'clock this forenoon, with
little fatigue, my horse being an excellent one. Appear
ances are hostile ; they talk of twenty or twenty-five days
at least. I believe I shall not hold out so long. The cora
raissioners are raet, but not all the parties, so that the busi
ness is not yet begun. The gentleraen from Albany are
not yet arrived or heard of. We shall probably do nothing
till they come. I have comfortable clean quarters.
Tell one of the boys to send me some suprerae court
seals ; about six. I forgot thera. Write me what caUs
are made at the office for me. Distribute my love. Let
each of the children write me what they do. You may
certainly find some opportunity. Adieu.
A. Burr.

256 memoirs of aaron burr. [Aged 29.

f TO MRS. BURR.
Chester, May, 1785.
I Strayed this morning for an hour or two in the woods,
where I lay on a rock to enjoy the wild retreat. The
cheerfulness of all around me led me lo ask why all ani
mated nature enjoyed its being but man ? Why man alone
is discontented, anxious — sacrificing the present to idle ex
pectations; — expectations which, if answered, are in hke
manner sacrificed. Never enjoying, always hoping ? An
swer, tu mihi magna Apollo. I would moralize, but time
— and my corapanions are coraing in. Let me hear of
your health. Avoid all fatigue. Judge Yates proposes lo
come down wilh me. Quoi faire ?
My good landlady is out of tea, and begs me to send for
a pound. Put it up very well. I am in better health than
spirits. Adieu.
A. Burr.
FROM MRS. BURR.
' New-York, May, 1785.
I am vexed that I did not inquire your route more par
ticularly. I cannot trace you in imagination, nor find your
.spirit when at rest ; nor dare I count the hours to your re
turn. They are stUl too numerous, and add to my impa
tience. I expect ray reward in the health you acquire. If
it should prove otherwise, how I shall hate ray acquies
cence to your departure. I anticipate good or evil as my
spirits rise or fall ; but I know no medium ; my mind can
not reach that stage of indifference. I fancy all my actions
directed by you ; this tends lo spur my industry, and give
calm to my leisure.
The famUy as you left it. Bartow never quits the office,
and is perfectly obliging. Your dear little daughter seeks
you twenty times a day ; calls you to your meals, and will
not suffer your chair to be filled by any of the family.

Aged 29.] MEMOIRS or aaron burr. 257
Judge Hobart called here yesterday; says you are absent
for a month. I do not admit that araong possibilities, and
therefore ara not alarmed. I feel obUged lo Mr. Wickham
for his delay, though I dare not give scope to my pen ; my
heart dictates too freely. O, my Aaron ! how many len
der, grateful things rush to ray mind in this moraent ; how
much fortitude do I summon to suppress them ! You will
do justice to their silence ; to the inexpressible affection of
your plus tendre amie.
Bartow has been to the surveyor-general ; he cannot in
forra hira the boundaries of those lots for J. W. There is
no raap of them but one in Albany. Theodosia.
to mrs. burr.
Chester, May, 1785.
I joined the commissioners and parties in the woods, near
this place, on Wednesday noon ; found the weather severe,
and roads bad. Have, since my arrival, been following the
coraraissioners in their surveys. Nothing transpires from
which we can conjecture their intentions.
This raorning carae your kind, your affectionate, your
truly welcorae letter of Monday evening. Where did it
loiter so long ? Nothing in my absence is so flattering to
me as your health and cheerfulness. I then conteraplate
noihing so eagerly as ray return ; amuse myself with ideas
of my own happiness, and dwell on the sweet domestic joys
which I fancy prepared for me.
Nothing is so unfriendly to every species of enjoyment as
melancholy. Gloom, however dressed, however caused, is
incompatible wilh friendship. They cannot have place in
the mind at the same time. It is the secret, the malignant
foe of sentiment and love. Adieu.
A. Burr.
Vol. I.— K k

258 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 29^

FROM MRS. BURR. New-York, May, 1785.
Your dear letter was handed rae this day, at a moraent
which, if possible, increased its value. I have a little fever
hanging about rae, which tends to depress my spirits for the
time. Your moralizing changed my dulness to a pleasing
melancholy. I am mortified at the intermption it met, and
impatient to renew the theme ; to renew it in a more pleas
ing manner than even your letters afford. When ray health
is ill, I find your absence insupportable ; every evil haunts
rae. It is the last that raust take place till term ; that I must
subrait to. I am pleased with your account of your health
and spirits ; they are bolh as I wish.
When you write again, speak of your return. The un
certainty makes it more irksome. The company you speak
of will be as welcome as any at this juncture ; but ray health
and mind seem to require the calm recreation of friendly
sympathy ; the heart that has long been united to mine by
the tenderest esteera and confidence, who has made every
little anxiety its own, to whom I can speak without reserve
every imaginary wo, and whose kind consolation shall ap
pease those miseries nature has imposed. But whatever
present inconveniences may arise, I submit to them with
perfect resignation, rather than, even in idea, to expect the
one raentioned by you when last at home. My raind is im
pressed with a perfect dread of all of that kind. We never
can have one lo give us so little trouble as E. W., and yet
we found it great. We must avoid all such invitations, for
the sacrifice on my part is too great. Friday moming.
I have passed a most tedious night. I went to bed much
indisposed. M. absent ; mararaa also. Ten thousand anx
ieties surrounded me tiU three, when I fell asleep ; waked at
six, much refreshed, and in better health than I could possi-

Aged 29.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 259
bly have expected. I flatter rayself your task wUl end
sooner than you expected. Mr. Marvin caUs for my leiter
this morning, which wiU be delivered with a pound of green
tea I have purchased for your landlady at two dollars. He
has called. I am hurried. Ten thousand loves
Toujours la votre.
Theodosia.

TO MRS. BURR.
Jane's in the Mountains, May, 1785.
I wrote my dear Theodosia a long letter of business and
nonsense last evening from Chester. I am now about
twelve miles nearer to you, and shall sleep to-night within
thirty-five railes (only six hours' ride), and shall to-morrow
return surlily to Chester.
Our cavalcade is most fortunately coraposed. Some who
abhor fatigue, others who admire good fare, by which com
bination we ride slow and live well. We have halted here
half an hour to lounge and take a luncheon. Of the last, I
partook reasonably. The time which others devote to the
former, I devote (of right) to you, and thus lounge with pe
culiar glee.
By return of Mr. Smith (who is obliging enough to deliver
this), I expect much longer letters from our lazy flock. By
the next opportunity I determine not to write you, but some
others who deserve more attention than I fear they will think
I mean to give them.
The girls must give me a history of their time, from rising
to night. The boys any thing which interests them, and
which, of course, will interest me. Are there any, or very
pressing calls at the office ? The word is given lo mount. I
shall have lirae lo seal this and overtake them. Kiss for
me those who love me.
A. Burr.

260 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 29.

FROM MRS. BURR. New-York, AprU, 1785.
Mrs. Wickham just called to teU me of an opportunity to
Chester. How joyfully I embrace it. I had a most in
supportable irapatience lo coramunicate to you my gratitude
and thanks for your last visit. It was a cordial to ray
health and spirits ; abalra to ray soul. My mind is flushed
with pleasing hopes. Ten thousand tender thoughts rush
to my pen ; but the bearer may prove faithless. I will sup
press them to a happier moment, and anticipate the dear in
dulgence. The famUy as you left it. Thy Theodosia's health and
spirits increase daily. Bartow's industry and utility are stri
king to the family and strangers. Johnstone returned yes
terday. Your letter was as eagerly read as though I had
not seen you. Write when you have leisure ; if it does not
reach me immediately, it will serve to divert some tedious
moment in a future absence ; even when you are al home,
engrossed by business, I frequently find a singular pleasure
in perusing those testimonies of affection.
I find I am continually speaking of myself. I can only
account for it from my Aaron having persuaded me 'tis his
favourite subject, and the extreme desire I have to please
him induces me to pursue it. I take no walks but up one
stairs and down the other. The situation of my house will
not admit of my seeing many visiters. I hope sorae ar
rangement will be accomplished by the next week.
A packet frora SiU. He wrUes like a happy raan — not
the happy man of a day, or I am much deceived m him.
She is certainly to be ranked among the fortunate. I wish
she may be sensible of her lot.
I have fixed the tirae of seeing you. Till Saturday I
wiU hope the best. I cannot extend ray calculations beyond
it ; four days of your absence is an age to come. My com-

Aged 29.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 261
pliments to your chum, and who else you please, Pense
atec tendresse de la votre.
Theodosia.

to MRS. burr.
Chester, May 12, 1785.
Nothing could be more welcome than your affectionate
letters by Mr. Wickham. They met me on Tuesday even
ing, on our retum from a tour through the mountains. I
was for some hours transported home, to partake of that do
mestic tranquillity which you so feelingly paint. Continue
to write if opportunity presents. They will cheer me in
these rustic regions. If not, they will not be lost.
This being a rainy day, we have kept within doors. To
morrow, if fair, we resume the business of climbing moun
tains, which will probably be our employraent till about the
middle of next week. After which a week more (at most)
will finish the controversy.
Pay Moore nothing till I retum, unless you see cause.
Let him rough-cast, if he is confident of succeeding ; but tell
him I wUl not pay him tiU I am convinced il wiU bear
weather, and last.
If the sheriff of Bergen (Dey) calls for his money, I
enclose a note wilh a blank for the name. You raust speak
to either Malcora or Lenle for their assistance, unless you
can think of something more convenient, putting the matter
in such light as your address shall think proper. If for any
reasons you should prefer to make use of Popham's narae,
do it. The person whose name is put in the note must en
dorse it, and the note be daled. Let one of the boys go
over to Mrs. Baldwin for the certificate of the balance of
the account, which, if obtained, a deduction raust be raade
accordingly. Perhaps, by paying three or four hundred
pounds, Mr. Morris wUl consent to wait ray retum. Per
haps, at your instance, he wiU wait that tirae without any
payment. All which is humbly submitted. I enclose two
notes, that you may take your choice.

262 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 29.
Mr. Watrous's business respecting the land is not very
material. If it should have faUed, you may inform him that
I have long since ffied a caveat which will cover his claim.
I bear the fatigues of our business to admiration. Have
great appetite, and sleep sound about len hours a night. I
am already as black as a Shawanese. You wiU scarce
know me if I continue this business a few days longer.
Thank our dear chUdren for their "kind letters. But they
are so afraid of tiring either me or theraselves (I suspect
the latter), that they teU rae few, very few, of those inter
esting trifies which I want to know.
Let T. give them any new steps he pleases, but not one
before the others. If any one is behind or less apt, more
pains must be taken to keep them on a par. This I give
in charge to you.
I fear you flatter me with respect lo your health. You
seem a little studied on that score, which is not very natural
to you when speaking truth. But, if it is not trae, il is sure
ly your own fault. Go lo bed early, and do not fatigue your
self wilh running about house. And upon no account any
long walks, of which you are so fond, and for which you
are so unfit. Siraple diet will suit you best. Restrain aU
gout for inleraperance tiU sorae future time not very distant.
I do not nor can proraise rayself all you proraise me wilh
respect lo the chUdren. I have been too much mortified
on that subject to remove it al once.
This is the last expedition of the kind I shall ever under
take ; and ever since I have been here I have been plan
ning ways to extricate rayself from it, but am defeated, and
shall be absolutely detained prisoner tiU the business is con
cluded. Johnstone can give you an account of my quar
ters and mode of Ufe. You haunt me daily more and more.
I really fear I shall do little justice to the business which
brought rae here.
The children musl pardon my not writing. I have a
number of memorandums of business to make out for

Aged 29.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 263
Johnstone. Thank them again for their leiters, and beg
them not lo be so churUsh.
Let one of the boys haunt Moore. But you surely can
do it without letting him vex you, even supposing he does
nothing. I had much rather that should be the case than
that you should be one minute out of huraour with him.
The girls raust go on with Tetard in his own way till I
corae, when I will set aU right.
It is already late. I raust be up at sunrise. Bon soir,
ma chere amie.
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR
Chester, 19th May, 2 o'clock P. M,, 1785.
We have this day begun the examination of witnesses,
which, together with the arguraents, will keep us the greater
part, and probably the whole, of next week. I find rayself
gaining strength exceedingly since ray return frora New-
York, though perfectly out of huraour with the business, the
distance, and the delay.
My trip to New-York has quite rained rae for business.
I cannot confine ray raind to it. I ara literally horaesick,
and think of nothing else. A witness attending in court in-
forras me of his going to New-York as soon as his testi
mony is finished. I desert a moraent to tell you that I am
wholly yours. 6 o'clock P. M., 19th May.
Since I wrote you at two o'clock our court is adjourned
tUl nine to-morrow. We go on briskly and in great good
nature. If you were half as punctual or as fortunate (which
shall I caU it?), I should absolutely fancy myself talking
with you. It would be some indemnification for the dis
tance and vexation. Make up in thinking of me, and taking
care of yourself, what you orait in writing. Thine at all
moments.

264 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 29,
9 o'clock at night, 19th May.
A thousand thanks for your dear affectionate letter of
Tuesday evening. I was just sitting pensively and half
complaining of your remissness, when your letter is receiv
ed and dispels every gloomy thought. I write this from the
impulse of my feelings, and in obedience to your injunctions,
having no opportunity in view.
The leiters of our dear chUdren are a feast. Every part
of them is pleasing and interesting. Le Jeune is not ex
pected to be in New-York for sorae weeks al least. I avoid
the subject. I shudder at the idea of suffering any thing lo
mar the happiness I promise myself.
There is no possibility of ray retum tiU the middle of
next week. In one of my letters I put it to the last of next
week, but we have this day made unexpected progress. If
we are equally fortunate and equally good-natured, we may
finish Wednesday night ; but this is conjecture, and perhaps
ray impatience raakes me too sanguine.
I broke off at the bottom of the other page lo pay some
attention to those who deserve much from me (our dear chil
dren). To hear that they are employed, that no time is ab
solutely wasted, is the raost flattering of any thing that can
be told me of them. It ensures their affection, or is the best
evidence of it. It ensures, in its consequences, every thing
I ara arabitious of in them. Endeavour to preserve regu
larity of hours ; it conduces exceedingly to industry.
I have just heard of a Mr. Brown who goes down by wa
ter. As I raay not have another opportunity, I hazard it by
him. He promises to leave it at old Mr. Rutherford's.
Our business goes on very moderately this morning. Wit
nesses all tardy. We have adjourned for want of something
to do. Melancholy and vexatious. Il has given me a head
ache. We shall be holden, I fear, all next week. Adieu.
A. Burr.
To Mrs. Burr.

Aged 29.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 265

Chester, 8 o'clock, 20th May, 1785.
Worse and worse. During the whole day we have not
been five hours al business. Our witnesses are so aged,
and many so remote, that they will not be in till Monday,
so that, at this rale, we shall eke out the whole of next week.
I have at no tirae been so completely out of patience ; just
now particularly, being a little churlish with ray headache,
which, though not very severe, unfits rae for any thing but
writing to you.
I wrote you and the whole flock last evening, and added
a line to you this raorning, and sent off the packet by a Mr.
Brown, who goes by water, and promised to deliver it hira
self. He has business at old Mr. Rutherford's. If he is
punctual, don't forget him in thinking of the letters. Do say
something that will raake me a little more content with this
vexatious delay and imprisonraent.
I am prompted to write a hundred things, which I dare
not, for fear I shaU not find a safe conveyance : that was
particularly the case last evening and this morning. It is
perhaps fortunate, or I should spend too much tirae -with
you in this way. I believe I do as it is. Adieu, a little
while. I am just going to prepare some hot punch. Ten o'clock.
I have been tUl this minute making and sipping punch,
and with great success. It has thrown me into a perspira
tion, which obliges me to go to bed. I am very iUy recon
cUed to leave you and bid you good-night, but so says my
hard lot. Saturday moming, 8 o'clock.
I lay awake tiU after three o'clock this moming; then
got up and look a large dose of medicine. It was com
posed of laudanum, nitre, and other savoury drags, which
Vol. I,— Ll 12

266 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 29.
procured rae sleep till now : have no headache ; must eat
breakfast, and away to court as fast as possible.

Saturday Evening.
Every thing almost stands stUl. I begin to despair of
gelling away. I am sure the whole of next week will not
finish our business at the present rate. To make it more
tedious and disagreeable, sorae of us are less good-huraoured
than at first. Not a line from you since that I have men
tioned. I can find no opportunity for this. I am too vexed
to utter one sentiment. Sunday, 22d May.
No opportunity for this scrawl yet. I begin to be tired
of seeing it, and wish it gone for this reason ; and also, be
cause I try to persuade myself you would be glad to re
ceive it.
To-day we have fine scope to refiect how much better we
might have eraployed it, had we been active in our business
last week. I find the whole raight have been finished by
yesterday (if. the witnesses on both sides had been ready)
as well as a month hence.
My room is a kind of rendezvous for our side : have sel
dom, therefore, lime either to think or write, unless at night
or early in the moming. Judge Yates concludes to give us
a few days of his company, and to accept of a roora wilh us.
The coming of Le Jeune uncertain ; not probably tiU faU.
You wUl receive a paU of butter, perhaps, with this. I have
been contracting for the year.
Have you done running up and down stairs ? How do
you live, sleep, and amuse yourself? I wish, if you have
leisure (or, if you have not, raake U), you would read the
Abbe Mably's little book on the Constitution of the United
States. St. John has it in French, which is much better
than a translation. This, you see, wiU save me the trouble
of reading it ; and I shall receive it with much more em-

Aged 29.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 267
phasis par la bouche d'amour. Adieu. I seal this instantly,
lest I be tempted to write more. Again adieu.
A. Burr.

FROM MRS. BURR.
New-York, May 22d, 1785.
Your letter by Mr. Bayard was brought me on Saturday,
and the first I had received since the one by Mr. Marvin
till to-day. Mr. Brown very punctuaUy and civilly came with
your welcome packet of Thursday, nine o'clock. It was
just before dinner ; the chUdren were dispersed at different
employraents. I furnished the raanlelpiece with the con
tents of the packet. When dinner was served up they were
called. You know the usual eagerness on this occasion.
They were all seated but Bartow, when he espied the let
ters ; the surprise, the joy, the exclaraations exceed descrip
tion. The greatest stoic would have forgot himself. A
silent tear betrayed me no philosopher. A most joyous re
past succeeded. We talked of our happiness, of our first
of blessings, our best of papas. I enjoyed, my Aaron, the
only happiness that could accrue from your absence. It
was a moraentary compensation ; the only one I ever ex
perienced. Your letters always afford me a singular satisfaction; —
a sensation entirely ray own ; this was peculiarly so. It
wrought strangely on ray mind and spirits. My Aaron, it
was replete wilh tenderness ! with the most lively affection.
I read and re-read, till afraid I should gel it by rote, and
mingle it with common ideas ; profane the sacred pledge.
No; it shaU not be. I wiU economize the boon. I wiU
limit the recreation to those moments of retirement devoted
to thee. Of a sudden I found myself unusually fatigued. I
reflected on the cause, and soon found I had mounted the
stairs much oftener than I could possibly have done on any
other occasion.
I am vexed with my last letter to you ; 'tis impossible for

268 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 29.
me to disguise a single feeling or thought when I am wri
ting or conversing with the friend of my heart. I hope you
have attended only lo the last paragraph, and avoided all
unnecessary anxiety for her who wishes to be a constant
source of pleasure to thee. I have been in good health since
Saturday morning. Since yesterday, unusually gay and
happy; anticipating a thousand pleasures, studying every
little arrangeraent that can contribute lo thy corafort. This
wet weather is a bar to any essential progress. The walls
are still too darap to adrait of either paint or paper. I have
a bed ready for the judge ; ne vous genez pas Id-dessus. I
am afraid some fooUsh refiections in my last will embarrass
you. Your affection and tenderness has put them lo flight.
" Let noihing raar the promised bliss." Thy Theo. waits
wilh inexpressible impatience to welcome the return of her
tmly beloved. Every domestic joy shall decorate his man
sion. When Aaron smUes, shall Theo. frown? Forbid it
every guardian power.
Le Jeune perplexes me no longer. I ara provoked wilh
rayself for having repeated il to you. Your dear little
Theo. grows the most engaging child you ever saw. She
frequently talks of, and calls on, her dear papa. It is im
possible lo see her wilh indifference. AU moves as you
wish it. All count the passing hours till thy retum. Re
member, I am in good health and spirits ; that I expect the
same account of yours. To think of me affectionately is
my first comraand ; to write me so, the second. Hasten
to share the happiness of thy rauch loved and rauch loving
Theodosia.
from mrs. burr.
New-York, August 28th, 1785.
The enclosed was to have gone yesterday, but the in
tended bearer disappointed me. Young  and his com
panions have just left us ; at lasting your Madeira he pro
nounced you a d  d clever fellow. Your merit increased

Aged 29.] MEMOIRS of aaron bdrr. 269
wilh the number of glasses; they went away in good-
humour with themselves and the hostess. O ! ray love,
how earnestly I pray that our children raay never be driven
frora your paternal dfrection Had you been at home to
day, you would have felt as fervent in this prayer as your
Theo. Our children were impressed with utter contempt
for their guest. This gave me real satisfaction.
I really believe, ray dear, few parents can boast of chil
dren whose minds are so prone lo virtue. I see the reward
of our assiduity with inexpressible delight, with a gratitude
few experience. My Aaron, they have grateful hearts;
sorae circurastances prove it, which I shall relate to you
with singular pleasure at your return. I pity A. C. from
my heart. She will feel the folly of an over zeal lo accu
mulate. Bartow's assiduity and faithfulness is beyond de
scription. My health is not worse. I have been disap
pointed in a horse ; shaU have Pharaoh to-morrow. Fred
erick is particularly attentive lo my health ; indeed, none
of them are deficient in tenderness. All truly anxious for
papa's retum ; we fix Tuesday, beyond a doubt, but hope
impossibilities. I had a thousand things to -write, but the idea of seeing
you banishes every other thought. I fear much the violent
exertions you are obliged to make will injure your health.
Remember how dear, how important it is to the repose, to
the life of Theodosia,
from mrs. burr. New- York, August 29th, 1785. '
As soon as Tuesday evening came, I sent repeated mes
sages to Cape's, who persevered in the answer of there
being no leiter. I slept ill ; found my health rauch worse
in the raorning ; rode out ; in spite of exercise, continued ill
till your dear leiter was handed me. I immediately called
for refreshment, and imagined I had recovered my health ;

270 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 29.
my sensations stiU teU me so. Ten thousand thanks for the
best prescription that ever physician invented. I ride daily ;
breakfasted with Clem. Clarke this moming, who has
scarce a trait of himself. He neither knows nor cares for
anybody but his son, who is three years and a half old, fair
hair, but not handsorae ; rauch huraoured ; is introduced as
a pet of the first value. Aunt raore in temper than was
expected. He dines here to-morrow with the two Blakes.
I felt no other compulse to notice them than your wish.
Our little daughter's health has improved beyond my ex
pectations. Your dear Theodosia cannot hear you spoken
of without an apparent melancholy; insomuch that her
nurse is obliged lo exert her invention to divert her, and
myself avoid to raention you in her presence. She was
one whole day indifferent to every thing but your narae.
Her attachraent is not of a common nature ; though this
was ray opinion, I avoided the reraark, when Mr. Grant
observed it to me as a singular instance.
You see I have followed your example in speaking first
of rayself. I esteemed il a real trail of your affection, a
sympathy in the feelings, the anxiety of your Theo., who
had every fear for your health ; more than you would allow
her to express.
The garden wall is begun. I fear the front pavement
wUl not answer your intention. I write you again to-mor
row. Much love awaits thee. Thine, unchangeably,
Theodosia Burr.
from mrs. burr.
New-York, 25th September, 1785.
Your dear letler of Saturday moming has just reached
me. I was relieved, delighted, tiU the recoUection of the
storm you have since weathered took place. How have you
borne it ? "ren thousand fears alarm rae. I pursued thee
yesterday, through wind and rain, tiU eve, when, fatigued,
exhausted, shivering, thou didst reach thy haven, surround-

Aged 29.] MEMOIRS OF A.ARON BURR. 271
ed with inattention, thy Theo. frora thee. Thus agitated,
I laid ray head upon a restless pUlow, turning frora side to
side, when thy kindred spirit found ils male. I beheld my
much-loved Aaron, his tender eyes fixed kindly on me;
they spake a body wearied, wishing repose, but not sick.
This soothed my troubled spirit : I slept tolerably, but dare
not trust loo confidently. I hasten to my friend lo realize
the delightful vision ; naught but thy voice can tranquUlize
my mind. Thou art the constant subject of love, hope, and
fear. The girls bewaU the sufferings of their dear papa ;
the boys wish theraselves in his place ; Frederick frets at
the badness of the horse ;: wishes money could pul him in
thy stead. The unaffected warmth of his heart delights
me. If aught can alleviate thy absence, 'tis these testimo
nies of gratitude and affection from the young and guile*
less to the best of parents. They feel the hand that bles
ses them, and love because they are blessed.
Thy orders shall be attended to. Mararaa joins in the
warmest assurances of sincere affection. Theodosia and
Sally in perfect health. Beyond expression.
Yours, Theodosia Burr.

FROM MRS. BURR.
New-York, 27th September, 1785,
I have counted the hours till evening ; since that, the min
utes, and ara still on the watch ; the stage not arrived : il is
a cruel delay. Your health, your tender frarae, how are
they supported ! Anxiety obliterates every other idea ; ev
ery noise stops ray pen ; my heart flutters with hope and
fear ; the pavement frora this to Cape's* is kept warra by
the faraily; every eye and ear engrossed by expectation;
my mind is in too rauch trepidation to write.
I resume my pen after another messenger, in vain. I will
* Stagehouse,

272 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 29.
try to teU you that those you love are well ; that the boys
are very diligent ; Ireson gone to Westchester. My new
medicine wUl, I flatter myself, prove a lucky one. SaUy
amazingly increased. Fream at work at the roof. He
thinks it loo flat lo be secured. The back walls of the
house struck through with the late rain. M. Y. still at Miss
W. You raust not expect to find dancing on Thursday night.
I should think il a degree of presumption to make the neces
sary preparations without knowing the state of your health.
Should this account prove favourable, I still think it best to
delay it, as the stage is very irregular in its return. That of
Saturday did not arrive till Sunday moming ; it brought an
unfavourable account of the roads. Thus you probably
would not partake, nor would I wish spectators to check
my vigilance, or divide that attention which is ever insuffi
cient when thou art the object. 0, ray Aaron, how irapa
tient I ara to welcome thy return ; lo anticipate thy will, and
receive thy loved comraands.
The clock strikes eleven. No stage. My letter raust
go. I have been three hours writing, or atterapting to write,
this imperfect scrawl. The chUdren desire me to speak
their affection. Mamma will not be forgot ; she especially
shares ray anxiousness. Adieu.
^ Theodosia Burr
to mrs. burr.
Albany, October 30th, 1785.
I have received your two affectionate letters. The en
closed was intended lo have been sent by the stage which I
met on ray way up ; but, by untoward accidents (needless to
detaU), yet lies by me. My disorder has left me almost
since I left the city.
The person with whom I had business had gone from this
place before my arrival, so that I should have been, ere this,
on my return, but that I have suffered myself to be en
gaged in two land causes (Van Hoesen and Van Rensse

Aged 29.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 273
laer), which begin to-morrow, and will probably last the
whole week. I am retained for Van Hoesen, together with
J. Bay and P. W. Yates. Such able coadjutors will re
lieve me of the principal burden. You may judge with
what reluctance I engaged in a business which will detain
me so long from aU that is dear and lovely. I dare not
think on the period I have yet to be absent. I feel it in
some sort a judgment for the letters written by the girls to
N.W.
Your account of your health is very suspicious ; you are
not particular enough ; you say noihing of the means yon
use to restore yourself; whether you take exercise, or ho-vv
you employ your time.
I shall probably leave this on Sunday next ; my horse
will not take me home in three days. I fear I shall not
see you till Wednesday morning of next week ; perhaps
not even then, for I am engaged lo attend the court at Bed
ford on Tuesday of next week. You shall hear again by
the stage.
WUl not these continued rains deprive us of the pleasure
of the promised visit of the W.s ? How is it possible you
can -write me such short letters, having so much leisure,
and surrounded with all that can interest me ? Adieu.
A, BtJRR,
TO MRS. BURR. Albany, 2d November, 1785.
I have lived these three days upon the letters I expected
this evening, and behold the stage without a line ! I have
been through the rain, and dark, and mud, hunting up every
passenger to catechise thera for letters, and can scarce yet
believe that I ara so totally forgotten.
Our trial, of which I wrote you on Sunday, goes on mod
erately. It will certainly last till twelve o'clock on Satur
day night; longer it cannot, that being the last hour of
court. Of course, I leave this on Sunday ; shall be detained
Vol. I.— Mm IS*

274 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 29.
at Westchester tiU about Thursday noon, and be horae on
Friday. This is ray present prospect; a gloomy one, I
confess ; rendered more so by your unpardonable silence. I
have a thousand questions to ask, but why ask of the dumb ?
I ara quite recovered. The trial in which I ara engaged
is a fatiguing one, and in sorae respects vexatious. But it
puts rae in better humour to reflect that you have just re
ceived my letter of Sunday, and are saying or thinking
some good-natured things of me. Determining to write any
thing that can arause and Interest rae ; every thing that can
atone for the late sUence, or compensate for the hard fate
that divides us.
Since being here I have resolved that you in future ac
company me on such excursions, and I am provoked to have
yielded to your idle fears on this occasion. I have told
here frequently, wiihin a day or two, that I was never so
long from home before, tiU, upon counting days, I find I
have been frequently longer. I am so constantly anticipa
ting the duration of this absence, that when I speak of it I
realize the whole of it.
Let me find that you have done justice to yourself and
me. I shall forgive none the smallest omission on this
head. Do not write by the Monday stage, or rather, do
not send the letter you write, as il is possible I shall leave
the stage-road in my way to Bedford.
Affectionately adieu,
A. Burr.

Aged 30.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr 275

CHAPTER XV.
from MRS. BURR
New-York, August, 1786.
Your letter was faithfully handed us by the boy from
Hall's. Bartow has enclosed the papers. Those you men
tioned to me on the night of your departure I cannot for
ward, as I have forgot the names of the parlies, and they
cannot guess them in the office from my description. I hope
the disappointment will not be irreparable. , i
If you finish your causes before court is over, cannot you
look at us, even should you return to the raanor ? The two
girls followed you to the stagehouse, saw you seated and
drive off. Frederick's tooth prevented his attendance. My
heart is full of affection, my head loo barren lo express il,
I am impatient for evening; for the receipt of your dear let
ter; for those delightful sensations which your expressions
of tenderness alone can excite. Dejected, distracted with
out them ; elated, giddy even lo folly wilh them ; my raind,
never at mediura, clairas every thing from your partiality.
I have just determined to take a room at aunt Clarke's
till Sally recovers her appetite ; by the advice of the physi
cian, we have changed her food from vegetable to animal, A
change of air may be equally beneficial. You shall have a
faithful account. I leave town at six this evening. All
good angels attend thee. The children speak their love,
Theodosia has written to you, and is anxious lest I should
omit sending it, Toujours la votre,
Theodosia,

276 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [-A-gcd 30.

TO MRS. BURR. Albany, August, 1786.
Your letler of Thursday evening was stuffed into one of
the office papers, so that I did not find it for half an hour
after I received the packet, during all which time I had the
pleasure of abusing you stoutly. But I had only prepared
rayself for the most delightful surprise. I apologized wilh
great submission.
Why are you so cautiously silent as to our little Sally ?
You do not say that she is better or worse ; from which I
conclude she is worse. I am not wholly pleased with your
plan of meat diet. It is recommended upon the idea that
she has no disorder but a general debility. AU the disor
ders of this season are apt to be attended with fevers, in
which case animal diet is unfriendly. I beg you to watch
the effects of this whim wilh great attention. So essential
a change will certainly have visible effects. Remember, I
do not absolutely conderan, because I do not know the prin
ciples, but am fearful.
Every rainute of ray time is engrossed to repair the loss
of ray little book. Thank the boys for their attention to the
business I left them in charge. I wishr either of them had
given me a history of what is doing in the office, and you of
what is doing in the family. The girls I know to be incor
rigibly lazy, and therefore expect nothing from them. The
time was — but I have no leisure to refiect. Thine,
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Albany, August, eleven o'clock at night, 1786.
I have this day your letter by my express. I ara sorry
that you and others perplex yourselves with that office non
sense. Am loo fatigued and loo busy to say more of it.
We began our Catskill causes this morning, and have

Aged 31.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 277
this minute adjourned to meet at seven in the moming. We
shaU be engaged at the sarae disagreeable rale till Saturday
evening. I think our title stands favourably ; but the jury
are such that the verdict will be in some measure hazardous.
I have judgment for Maunsel against Brown, after a la
boured argument. Inforra him, with my regards.
Since writing thus far, I have your affectionate leiter by
the stage, which revives me. I shall not go to the manor.
But, if I succeed in our causes, shall be obliged to go lo
CalskUl to settle with the tenants, make sales, &c. Of this
you cannot know till Tuesday evening.
I ara wrong to say that I shaU not go to the raanor. I
am obliged to attend a Court of Chancery there. The
chancellor had gone hence before my arrival. I cannot be
home till Thursday evening. I hope your next will be
of the tenour of the last. Your want of cheerfulness is
the least acceptable of any token of affection you can give
me. Good angels guard and preserve you.
A. Burr.
FROM MRS. BURR.
New-York, November, 1787.
What language can express the joy, the gratitude of Theo
dosia? Stage after stage without a line. Thy usual punc
tuality gave room for every fear; various conjectures filled
every breast. One of our sons was to have departed to
morrow in quest of the best of friends and fathers. This
morning we wailed the stage wilh irapatience. Shrouder
went frequently before it arrived ; at length retumed — no
letter. We were struck dumb wilh disappointraent. Bar
tow set out to inquire who were the passengers ; in a very
few minutes returned exulting, — a packet worth the treas
ures of the universe. Joy brightened every face ; all ex
pressed their past anxieties ; their present happiness. To
enjoy was the first result. Each made choice of what they
could best relish. Porter, sweet wine, chocolate, and sweet-

278 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 31.
meats raade the most delightful repast that could be shared
without thee. The servants were made to feel their lord was
well, are at this instant toasting his health and bounty ; whUe
the boys are obeying thy dear comraands, thy Theodosia
fiies to speak her heartfelt joys : — her Aaron safe, raistress
of the heart she adores ; can she ask raore ? has Heaven
raore to grant ? " Plus que jamais a vous," dost thou rec
oUect it ? Do I read right? I can't raistake ; I read it ev
erywhere ; 'tis stamped on the blank paper ; I suUy the im
pression with reluctance ; I loiow not what I write. You
talk of long absence. I stoop not to dull calculations ; thou
hast judged it best ; thy breast breathes purest flame. What
greater blessing can await me ? Every latent spark is kin
dled in my soul. My iraagination is crowded with ideas ;
they leave me no time for utterance ; plus que jamais ; but
for Sally, I should set out to-morrow lo meet you. I must
dress and visit to-morrow. I have heard nothing ofthe W.s.
Our two dear pledges have an instinctive knowledge of
their mother's bliss. They have been awake all the even
ing. I have the youngest in ray arms. Our sweet prattler
exclaims at every noise, There's dear papa, and rans to meet
him. I pursue the medicine I began when you left us,
and believe it efficacious. Exercise costs me a crown a
day ; our own horse disabled by the nail which penetrated
the joint. I have grown less, and better pleased with my
self; feel confident of your approbation. W. hastens the
first assembly. F. feigns herself larae, that she may not
accompany M., who submits to every little meanness, and
bears all hints with insensibility. Has called here once.
Clement sailed on Monday.
Your reraark on the shortness of ray letters is flattering.
This is the last you shaU coraplain of. My spirits and
nerves coincide in asking repose. Your daughter com
mands it. Our dear children join in the strongest assu
rances of honest love. Mamma will not be forgotten.
Sweet sleep attend thee. Thy Theo.'s spirit shaU preside

Aged 32.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 279
I wish you may find this scrawl as short at reading as I
have at writing. I am surprised to find myself obUged to
enclose it. Adieu. Theodosia Burr.

FROM MRS. BURR.
New-York, Wednesday, November, 1787.
My health is better. As I fondly believe this the most
interesting intelligence I can give thee, I make it my pre
amble. What would I not give to have but those four
small words frora thee ? Though I had but little hope, I
found rayself involuntarily counting the passing hours. My
messenger met the stage at the door. I need not relate
his success. I fancy raany ills frora the situation of your
health when you left home, and pray ardently they may
prove merely fanciful. I have still three tedious days to
the next stage, when a line of affection shall repay all my
anxieties. Ireson relurned to-day. The poor boys have
really been models of industry. They write all day and
evening, and sometimes all night, nor allow themselves
time to powder.
I feel as though my guardian angel had forsaken rae. I
fear every thing but ghosts. Tell rae, Aaron, why do I
grow every day raore tenacious of thy regard ? Is it pos
sible my affection can increase ? Is it because each revolv
ing day proves thee more deserving ? Surely, thy Theo.
needed no proof of thy goodness. Heaven preserve the
patron of my flock ; preserve the husband of my heart ;
teach me to cherish his love, and to deserve the boon.
Theodosia Burr.
to mrs. burr.
Poughkeepsie, 28th June, 1788.
This afternoon the stage will pass through this place.
Your letters wiU not corae lo rae till the raorning, so that I
can oiily thank you for them, and the kind things they con-

280 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 32.
tain, by anticipation. I have already read them in the same
way, and therefore do thank you for them, de plein cceur.
I have a convenient room for my business in one house,
board al a different house, and bad lodgings al a third
house. This is, indeed, not so convenient an arrangeraent
as raight be wished ; but I could not procure these different
accommodations at less than three houses in this metropo
lis and seat of government.
As the boys will wish to know something of the progress
of business here, tell them that the cause of Freer and Van
Vleeck has been this day put off by the defendants, on pay
ment of costs, on an affidavit of the want of papers. In
Noxon's cause I have a verdict for thirty-four pounds.
The evidence clearly entitled Mr. Livingston to three or
four hundred pounds, and so was the charge of the judge ;
but landlords are not popular or favoured in this county.
I am now going to court to defend an action of trespass,
in which I have been employed here ; and shall try Mr.
Lansing's cause to-morrow, which wiU close my business
here. With how much regret I shaU go further from
horae. Kiss our dear children.
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Poughkeepsie, 29th June, 1788.
I have sat an hour at the door watching the arrival of
tbe stage. At length it coraes, and your deatr packet is
handed to me just in season to be acknowledged by Mr.
Johnstone. He will teU you of the further progress of my
business and my intended moveraents. I go this evening
to Rhinebeck. How wishfuUy I look horaeward. I like
your industry, and will certainly reward it as you shall
direct. My time is much engrossed. My health perfectly good.
You say nothing of yours ; but your industry is a good
omen. You can write lo me by Monday's stage, directed

Aged 32.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 281
to be forwarded to me from Rhinebeck. I shall be then
at Kingston. Much love lo the smiling little girl. I re
ceived her letter, but not the pretty things. I continually
plan ray return with chUdish impatience, and fancy a thou
sand incidents which render it more interesting. Reserve
your health and spirits, and I shall not be deceived.
Affectionately,
A. Burr.
TO MRS. burr.
Albany, August 7th, 1788.
Oh Theo. ! there is the most delightful grove — so dark
ened with weeping willows, that at noonday a susceptible
fancy like yours would mistake it for a bewitching raoon-
light evening. These syrapathizing willows, too, exclude
even the prying eye of curiosity. Here no rude noise in
terrupts the softest whisper. Here no harsher sound is
heard than the wild cooings of the gentle dove, the gay
thresher's aniraated warbles, and the soft murraurs of the
passing brook. Really, Theo., it is charming.
I should have told you that I am speaking of Fort John
son, where I have spent a day. From this amiable bower
you ascend a gentle declivity, by a winding path, lo a cluster
of lofty oaks and locusts. Here nature assumes a raore
august appearance. The gentle brook, which raurraured
soft below, here bursts a cataract. Here you behold the
stately Mohawk roll his majestic wave along the lofty Apa-
lachians. Here the mind assuraes a nobler tone, and is
occupied by subliraer objects. What there was tenderness,
here sweUs to rapture. It is truly charming.
The windings of this enchanting brook form a lovely
island, variegated by the most sportive hand of nature.
This shall be yours. We will plant it wilh jessamines and
woodbine, and call it Cypras. It seems formed for the resi
dence of the loves and the graces, and is therefore yours
by the best of titles. It is indeed most charming.
Vol. I.— Nn

282 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 32.
But I could fill sheets in description of the beauties of
this roraantic place. We will reserve it for the subject of
raany an amusing hour. And besides being little in the
habit of the sublirae or poetical, I grow afready out of
breath, and begin lo falter, as you perceive. I cannot,
however, omit the raost interesting and iraportant circum
stance ; one which I had rather communicate to you in this
way than face to face. I know that you was opposed to
this joumey to Fort Johnson. It is therefore with the great
er regret that I coraraunicate the event ; and you are not
unacquainted with my inducements lo it.
In many things I ara indeed unhappy in possessing a
singularity of taste ; particularly unhappy when that taste
differs in any thing from yours. But we cannot control
necessity, though we often persuade ourselves that certain
things are our choice, when in trath we have been unavoid
ably impelled to them. In the instance I am going to relate,
I shall not examine whether I have been governed by mere
fancy, or by motives of expediency, or by caprice ; you will
probably say the latter.
My dear Theo., arm yourself with all your fortitude. I
know you have rauch of it, and I hope that upon this occa
sion you will not fail to exercise it. I abhor preface and
preamble, and don't know why I have now used it so freely
But I am well aware that what I am going lo relate needs
much apology /roffi me, and will need rauch to you. If I
am the unwilling, the unfortunate instrument of depriving
you of any part of your promised gayety or pleasure, I hope
you are too generous to aggravate the misfortune by up
braiding me with il. Be assured (I hope the assurance is
needless), that whatever diminishes your happiness equally
impairs raine. In short, then, for I grow tedious both to you
arid rayself ; and to procrastinate the relation of disagreeable
events only gives them poignancy ; in short, then, my dear
Theo., the beauty of this same Fort Johnson, the fertility
of the soU, the commodiousness and elegance of the build-

Aged 32.] MEMOIRS of .^on burr. 283
ings, the great value of the mills, and the very inconsider
able price which was asked for the whole, have not induced
me to purchase it, and probably never wiU : in the confi
dence, however, of raeeting your forgiveness.
Affectionately yours,
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Albany, 26th October, 1788.
I wrote you a few hours ago, and pul the letter into the
postoffice. Little did I then iraagine how much pleasure
was near at hand for rae. Judge Hobart has this minute
arrived, and handed me your letter of Monday. I cannot
thank you sufficiently for all the affection it contains. Be
assured it has every welcome which congenial affection can
give. The headache wilh which I left New- York grew so ex
treme, that finding il irapossible to proceed in the stage, the
view of a vessel off Tarrytown, under full sail before the
wind, tempted me to go on board. We reached West Point
that night, and lay there at anchor near three days. , After
a variety of changes frora sloop to wagon, frora wagon to
canoe, and frora canoe to sloop again, I reached this place
last evening. I was able, however, to land at Rhinebeck
on Thursday evening, and there wrote you a letter which
I suppose reached you on Saturday last.
My business in court will detain rae till Saturday of this
week, when I propose to take passage in sloop. I have just
drunk tea with Mrs. FairUe, and her daughter, five days old.
Thank Bartow for the papers by Judge Hobart. When I
wrote him this evening I had not received them.
Yours,
A. Burr.

284 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 32.

TO MRS. BURR. Albany, November, 1788.
I received your affectionate letter just as I was going into
court, and under the auspices of il have tried with success
two causes. The bearer of this was ray client in one of
them, and is happy beyond measure al his success. Busi
ness has increased upon ray hands since I carae here. My
return seeras daily more distant, but not lo be regretted
from any views but those of the heart.
I hope you persevere in the regular mode of life which I
pointed out to you. I shall be seriously angry if you do not.
I think you had best take less wine and more exercise. A
walk twice round the garden before breakfast, and a ride in
the afternoon, will do for the present, and this wiU be neces
sary to fit you for the journey to Long Island.
A Captain Randolph will call with Mr. Mersereau : dest
un soldat et honnete homme, donnez eux 4 boire. They will
answer all your questions. Yours truly,
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Albany, 23d November, 1788.
I thank you for your obliging leiter of the 19th. It is
not, indeed, so long as I had hoped, but your reason for be
ing concise is too ingenious not lo be adraitted. I have,
however, a persuasion that you are at this raoment employ
ed in the same manner that I am ; and in the hope that your
good intentions will not be checked by either want of health
or want of spirits, I venture to expect a much longer letter
by the coraing post.
Your account of the progress of the raeasles is alarraing.
I am pleased to find that you yet keep your ground. It
persuades me that, notwithstanding what you have written,
you do not think the hazard very great. That disorder hath

Aged 32.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 285
found its way to this city, but with no unfavourable syrap-
toras. It is not spoken of as a thing to be either feared or
avoided. I have no prospect of being able to leave this place be
fore this day week, probably npt so soon. You raust, by
return of post, assure rae that I shall find you in good health
and spirits. This will enable me to despatch business and
hasten my return. Kiss those who love me.
A. Burr
TO MRS. BURR.
Albany, 26th November, 1788.
The unusual delay of the post deprives me of the pleas
ure of hearing from you this evening. This I regret the
more, as your last makes me particularly anxious for that
which I expected by this post.
I am wearied out with the most tedious cause I was ever
engaged in. To-raorrow will be the eighth day since we
began it, and it raay probably last the whole of this week.
Write me whether any thing calls particularly for my re
tum so as to prevent ray concluding my business here, i
am at a loss what to write untU I have your answer to ray
letters, for which I am very impatient. Yours affectionately,
A. Burr.

From the commencement of the year 1785 until the year
1788, Colonel Burr took but little part in the political dis
cussions of the day. In the year 1787 the opinion had be
come universal that the states could not be kept together
under the existing articles of confederation. On the second
Monday in May, 1787, a convention met in Philadelphia for
the avowed purpose of "revising the Articles of Confed
eration," &c. On the 28lh of September following, that
convention, having agreed upon a " neio constitution," order
ed that the same be transmitted to the several legislatures

886 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 32.
for the purpose of being submitted to a convention of dele
gates, chosen in each state, for its adoption or rejection.
In January, 1788, the legislature of New-York met, and
warm discussions ensued on the subject df the new consti
tution. These discussions arose on the question of caUing a
state convention. Parties had now become organized. The
friends of the new constitution styled themselves federal
ists. Its opponents were designated anti-federalists. The
latter denied the right of the general convention lo form a
" new constitution," and contended that they were limited in
their powers to " revising emd araending the Articles of Con
federation." The forraer asserted that the general conven
tion had not transcended its powers.
Colonel Burr, on this point, appears to have assuraed a
neutral stand ; but, in other respects, connected hiraself wilh
what was terraed the anti-federal party. He wished amend
ments to the constitution, and had received, in common with
many others, an impression that the powers of the federal
governraent, unless more distinctly defined, would be so ex
ercised as to divest the states of every attribute of sover-
•ignty, and that on their ruins ultimately there would be
erected a splendid national instead of a federal government.
In April, 1788, Colonel Burr was nominated by the anli-
federalists\pf the city of New-York as a candidate for the
asserably. The feelings of that day may be judged of by
the raanner in which the ticket was headed. It was pub
lished in the newspapers and in handbills as foUows : —
" The sons of liberty, who are again caUed upon to con
tend with the sheltered aliens, who have, by the courtesy of
our country, been permitted to remain among us, will give
their support to the following ticket : —
" William Deming, Melancton Smith, Marinus Willet,
and Aaron Burr."
The federalists prevaUed by an overwhelming majority.
The strength of the contending parlies was in the ratio of
about seven federalists (or tories) for one anti-federalist (or

Aged 33.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 287
whig). Such were the political cognoraens of the day.
The federalists styled their opponents anti- federalists.
The anti-federalists designated their opponents tories.
In April, 1789, there was an election for governor of the
State of New-York. The anti-federal party nominated
George Clinton. A raeeting of citizens, principally feder
alists, was held in the city of New- York, and Judge Rob
ert Yates was nominated in opposition to Mr. Clinton. Mr.
Yates was a firm and decided anti-federalist. He was
known to be the personal and political friend of Colonel
Burr. Al this raeeting a comraittee pf correspondence was
appointed. Colonel Harailton and Colonel Bjirr were both
members of this coraraittee.
In their address recoraraending Judge Yates they state,
that Chief-justicd Morris or Lieutenant-governor Van Court-
landt were the favourite candidates of the federal party;
but, for the sake of harraonizing conflicting interests, a gen
tleman (Mr. Yates), known as an anti-federalist, had been se
lected, and they respectfully recommend to Mr. Morris and
Mr. Van Courtlandt to withdraw their names, and to unite
in the support of Mr. Yates. This address was signed by
Alexander Harailton as chairman. Mr. Clinton, however,
was re-elected.
This support of Judge Yates did not diminish Governor
Clinton's confidence in the political integrity, or lessen his
respect for the talents, of Colonel Burr. A few months
after the election the governor tendered to hira the office of
attorney-general of the slate. At first he hesitated about
accepting the appointraent ; but, on the 25lh of Septembei;
1789, addressed his excellency as follows : —

)

to governor george clinton.
Sir,
In case the office you were pleased to propose should be
offered to me, I have, upon reflection, deterrained to accept
it;- at least mitil it shall be known upon what estabUsh-

288 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 33.
ment it wiU be placed. My hesitation arose not from any
dislike to the office, but frora the cfrcumstances which I took
the liberty lo suggest in our conversation on this subject.
y I have the honour to be
Your excellency's obedient servant, A. Burr.
On the receipt of the above note, Govemor Clinton "nom
inated Colonel Burr to the council of appointment as attor-
..ey-general of the stale, and the noraination was confirmed.
This office was rather professional than political. It was,
however, al the time, highly important; and imposed the most
arduous duties upon the incumbent. Under the new consti
tution of the United States, after the organization of the gov
ernment, many intricate questions arose. To discriminate
between the cljiims upon the respective states and those
upon the federal govemment, often required close investiga
tion and no inconsiderable degree of legal astuteness. The
claims of individuals who had been in the service of the
state during the war of the revolution, or who had otherwise
become creditors, were now presented for adjustment.
There were no principles settled by which their justice or
legaUty could be tested. All was chaos ; and the legislature
was about to be overwhelraed with petitions frora every
quarter for debts due, or for injuries alleged to have been
sustained by individuals who had been compeUed lo receive
depreciated money, or whose private property had been
taken for public use. In this dilemma the legislature passed
an act authorizing the appointment of commissioners to re
port on the subject. The commissioners were Gerard
Bancker, treasurer, Peter T. Curtenius, state auditor, emd
Aaron Burr, attorney-general.
During the peripd that Colonel Burr was attorney-gen
eral, the seat of government was in the city of New-York.
His official duties, therefore, seldom required his absence
from home, when his private business, as a professional

Aged 33.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 289
man, would not have rendered that absence necessatry. His
correspondence, although raore limited, lost none of ils in
terest, and misceUaneous selections from it are therefore con
tinued. TO MRS. BURR. Albany, 21st October,J789.
My DEAREST Theodosia,
I have this moment received your leiter of Sunday even
ing, containing the account of your alarming accident and
most fortunate rescue and escape. I thank Heaven for your
preservation, and thank you a thousand times for your par
ticular and interesting account of it.
I left my sloop at Kinderhook on Monday morning, and
came here that day in a wagon. I wrote you on the pas
sage, and attempted to leave the letter at Poughkeepsie, but
the wind not permitting us to stop, I went on board a Rhine
beck sloop, and there found Mrs. Peter R. Livingston, who
offered to take charge of ray letter.
I am relieved frora much anxiety by your management of
certain arrangements ; I am glad M. W. is content. Mrs.
Witbeck met wilh an accident a little sirailar to yours ;
but she lost only her cap and hair.
I am delighted to find that you anticipate as a pleasure
that by this post you may write as much as you please. If
you set no other bound lo your pen than my gratification,
you will write me the history every day, not of your actions
only (the least of which wiU be interesting), but of your
thoughts. I shall watch with eagerness and impatience the
coming of every stage. Let me not be disappointed ; you
have raised and given confidence to these hopes. We
lodge at a neat, quiet widow's, near the Recorder Ganse-
voort's. Sill invited us very friendly. Affectionately,
A, Burr.
Vol. I,— 0 0 13

290 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [.Aged 33.

TO MRS. BURR. Albany, 24th October, 1789.
With what pleasure have I feasted for three days past
upon the letters I was lo receive this evening. I was en
gaged in court when the stage passed. Upon the sound of
it I left court and ran to the postoffice ; judge of ray raor
tification to find not a line frora your hand. Surely, in the
course of three days, you might have found half an hour lo
have devoted to rae. You well knew how rauch I relied on
it ; you knew the pleasure it would have given rae, and the
disappointraent and chagrin I should feel frora the neglect.
I cannot, will not believe that these considerations have no
weight with you. But a truce to complaints. I will hope
that you have written, and that some accident has detained
the letter.
Your misfortunes so engrossed me, that I forgot to in
quire about Augustine's horses ; and to give a caution, which
I believe is needless, about the blank checks. Do not part
with one till you see il filled up with sum and date. T. P.
is apt lo make mistakes, and once lost a check which was
by accident detected before it was presented for payment.
This is my fourth leiter. Perhaps I write too much, and
you wish lo give me an exaraple of raoderation.
Yours affectionately,
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Albany, 28th October, 1789.
The history of your sufferings, this raoment received, is
traly unexpected and affecting. My syrapathy was wholly
with your unfortunate left hand. The distressing cfrcum
stances respecting your face must certainly be owing to some
thing more than the mere misfortune of your burn. I can
not help feeling a resentment which raust not be in this way
expressed. I ara sure your sufferings might have been pre-

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 291
vented. I had promised myself that they were at an end
many days ago.
Forgive my splenetic letter by the last post. I cannot
tell you how much I regret il. When I was complaining
md accusing you of neglect, you were suffering the most ex-
"ruciating pain ; bull could not have imagined this unfortu
nate reverse. Impute my irapatience to my anxiety to hear
from you. I am pleased at the gayety of your letter. Do
not think a moraent of the consequences which you appre
hend frora the wound. Let me only hear that you are re
lieved from pain, and I ara happy. This is my fifth letler.
Frederick is the laziest dog in the world for not having
written me of your situation.
Yours, tmly and affectionately,
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Claverack, 27th June, 1791.
I have just arrived here, and find Mr. B. Livingston
about to return to New- York. He informs me that he left
home on Saturday, and sent you word that he was to meet
me here. It was kind in him. I cannot say as much of
the iraproveraent you raade of his goodness.
It is surprising that you tell me nothing of Theo. I
would by no means have her writing and arithmetic neg
lected. It is the part of her education which is of the
most present importance. If Shepherd will not attend her
in the house, another must be had ; but I had rather pay
him double than employ another. Is Chevalier still punc
tual ? Let rae know whether you are yet suited with horses,
and how ?
In your letters, speak of Brooks and Ireson's attendcUice.
I wish you would often step into the office, and see as
many as you can of the people who corae on business.
Does young Mr. Broome attend? Other and raore inter
esting questions have been made and repealed in my for-

292 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 35.
mer letters ; I wiU therefore, at present, fatigue with no
more interrogatories. Adieu.
A. Burr.

FROM MRS. BURR.
New-York, 30th June, 1791.
My letter missed the post yesterday not from ray neg
lect. It waited for Brooks's packet, which was not ready
tiU the mail was gone. Mr. B. Livingston just handed me
the one you intrusted to him. I was the more pleased
with it, as he accompanied il with the most favourable ac
count of your health I have received since your absence,
and promises lo forward this in the aftemoon.
The Edwardses dine with me ; they had taken lodgings
previous to their arrival, in consequence of a report made
them by the little Bodowins (who were at Mrs. Moore's
last winter), that my house was too small and inconvenient
to admit of a spare bed. I esteem it a lucky escape. It
would have been irapossible for me to have borne the
fatigue. Charlotte is wom out with sleepless nights, la
borious days, and an anxious mind. Hannah constantly
drunk. Except William, who is a mere waiter, I have no
servant. My guests are come to dinner. I have solicited them,
and shall again, to stay here ; but, if they positively decline
it, I will go to Frederick. I will steal a moment after din
ner to add emother page. July 2d.
The person Mr. Livingston expected to forward ray letter
by did not go, nor could I hear of an opportunity, tiU, this
moment, Mr. Williams offered to take charge of this. I
had arranged every thing lo set out for Frederick this
morning, when a raortification was found to have laken
place on Charlotte's chUd, and she could not be raoved.
As I had carted every thing on board, which I assure you

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 293
was no small piece of business, I sent Natie with the three
younger chUdren, and kept Louise and Theo. to go with
me, wheney^this disagreeable event is past.
Theo. never can or wUl make the progress we would
wish her while' she has so many avocations. I kept her
home a week in hopes Shepherd would consent lo attend
her at horae, but Ue absolutely declined it, as his partners
thought it derogatory to their dignity. I was therefore
obliged to subrait, and permit her to go as usual. She be
gins to cipher. Mr. Chevalier attends regularly, and I
take care she never omits learning her French lesson. I
beUeve she makes most progress iri this. Mr. St. Aivre
never coraes ; he can get no fiddler, and I am told his
furniture, &c. have been seized by the sheriff. I don't
think the dancing lessons do much good while the weather
is so warm ; they fatigue too soon. I have a dozen and
four tickets on hand, which I think will double in value at
my return. As to the music, upon the footing it now is
she can never make progress, though she sacrifices two
thirds of her tirae to it. 'Tis a serious check lo her other
acquireraents. She must either have a forte-piano al home,
or renounce learning it. For these reasons I am irapatient
to go in the country. Her education is not on an advan
tageous footing al present. Besides, the playfellows she
has at horae makes it the most favourable raoraent for her
to be at liberty a few weeks, to range and gain in health a
good foundation for more application al our return, when I
hope to have her alone ; nay, I will have her alone. I can
not live so great a slave, and she shall not suffer. My
time shall not be an unwiUing sacrifice to others ; it shall
be hers. She shall have it, but I will not use severity ; and
without it, at present, I can obtain nothing ; 'tis a bad habit,
which she never deserves when I have her to rayself. The
moment we are alone she tries to amuse me with her im
provement, which the little jade knows will always com
mand my attention ; but these moments are short and sel-

294 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 35.
dom. I have so many trifiing interraptions, that my head
feels as if I had been a twelveraonth at sea. I scarcely
know what I speak, and much less what I Vjste.
What a provoking thing that I, who n^^P^ out, who
never dress beyond a decent style al^^Hie, should not
have a leisure moraent to read a newsp^er. It is a recre
ation I have not had since you left home, nor could I get
an opportunity by water to send thers to you. Albany
will be a raore favourable situation for every conveyance.
But I don't understand why your lordship can't pay your
obeisance at home in this four week vacation. I think I
am entitled lo a reason.
Brooks attends regularly. Ireson from six to twelve,
and from two lo six, as punctual as possible. I should
have made the office raore my business had I known it
would have been agreeable to you. I shall be attentive for
the future. Bartow is here every morning. Most people
either choose to wait for him, or call at some appointed
hour when he can be here. Mr. Broorae is here every
day. God knows the quality of this epistle ; but the quantity I
am certain you won't complain of. 'Tis like throwing the
dice — a raere garae al hazard ; like all gamblers, I ara
always in hopes the last will prove a lucky cast. Pray, in
what consists the pleasure of a familiar correspondence ?
In writing without form or reflection your ideas and feel
ings of the moment, trusting to the partiality of your friend
every imperfect thought, and lo his candom- every ill-turned
phrase. Such are the letters I love, and such I request of
those I love. It raust be a very depraved raind frora whom
such letters are not acceptable.
- Neither the packet you left at Kingston, nor the rnoney
and greatcoat by Colonel Gausbeck, have yet reached me.
I wish you could have passed that leisure four weeks with
me at Frederick's. How pleasant such a parly would have
been. How much quiet we should have enjoyed.

Aged 35] Wmoirs of aaron burr. 295

July 3d.
I was interrupted yesterday by the death of Charlotte's
child. Though a long-expected event, still the scene is
painful. The raother's tears were alraost too rauch for rae.
I hope nothing new will occur lo impede my journey. I
set off to-morrow raorning.
I ara not so sick as when I wrote you last, nor so weU as
when you left rae. I confess I have neglected the use of
those raedicines I found relief frora. The situation of my
family has obliged rae to neglect rayself, nor can I possibly
use thera at Frederick's. We shall be too crowded. I will
nevertheless take thera with rae. I live chiefly on ale. I
buy very good for one dollar per dozen. I have had twenty-
one dozen of your pipe of wine bottled. I think it very
good. I thank you for your remembrance per post of 30th June.
Il was acceptable, though short. How is it possible you
had nothing more lo write ? I know the head may be ex
hausted, but I was in hopes the heart never could. I ara
surprised at your not geiting ray letters. I fear several have
either gone to Albany or are lost. I shall, from this day,
keep the dales. I wrote you last Sunday — so did Ireson.
You can have no idea how comfortable the house seeras
since the sraall tribe have left it. A few weeks' quiet would
restore ray head. It really wants rest. You can't know
how weak it is. I cannot guide a single thought. Those
very trifling cares were ever raore toilsome to me than im
portant matters ; they destroy the mind. But I ara begin
ning another sheet ; I ara sure you raust be tired of this un
connected medley. I will bid you adieu.
Theo. has begun to write several letlers, but never finish
ed one. The only time she has to write is also the hour of
general leisure, and, when once she is interrupted, there is
no making her return to work. I have nothing more to

-nrrite, except that I ara yours affectionately

Theo. Burr.

296 MEMOIRS OF AARON Buiff [Aged 35.

TO MRS. BURR. Albany, 17th July, 1791.
I returned yesterday from Johnstown, worn down with
heat, fatigue, and bad fare. It is some smaU consolation
that these tedious journeys are not wholly unproductive.
At Johnstown I was very unexpectedly and agreeably
surprised by your letler of the 21st June, which was ad
dressed lo me at Kingston. It had been intrusted to an
Irishman, whom I at length raet pretty rauch by accident.
It informs me of the villany of Frederick's servants, and of
his wanting a rib. The latter I have equally at heart with
you, and never lose sight of it ; but, really, the big mother
will not do ; the father is not much better — reputable and
rich, but coarse and disgusting.
On my return lo this place I found your letter of Wednes
day morning. I fear the bad road near Pelham will discour
age you from riding. As you are likely to make considera
ble use of it, would it not be worth while to have a few
days' work done on it ? About an hour after the receipt of
the last-mentioned letter, I was made happy by the receipt
of that of the lOlh instant, which came by sloop. You
seem fatigued and worried, your head wild and scarcely
able to write, but do not name the cause. Whatever il raay
have been, I ara persuaded that nothing will so speedily and
effectually reraove such sensations as gentle exercise (or
even if it is not gentle) in the open air. The extrerae heat
of the weather, and the uncommon continuance of it, have,
I fear, interrupted your good intentions on this head, espe
ciaUy as you are no friend to riding early. I wish you
would alter this part (if il is any part) of j-our systera.
Walking early is bad on account of the dew ; but riding
can, I think, in such weather, be only practised with advan
tage early in the raorning. The freshness of the air, and
the sprightliness of all aniraated nature, are circurastances
of no trifling consequence.

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 297
I have no letter frora you by the last post, which put me
almost out of huraour, notwithstanding the receipt of the
three above mentioned within forty-eight hours, of which,
however, the latest is a week old.
I hope Theo. will learn lo ride on horseback. Two or
three hours a day at French and arithmetic will not injure
her. Be careful of green apples, &c.
I have been persuaded to undertake a laborious piece of
business, which wUl employ me diligently for about ten
days. The eloquence which wrought upon me was princi
pally money. I am now at wages. What sacrifices of
tirae and pleasure do I raake to this paltry object — contemp
tible indeed in itself, but truly important and attractive as
the means of gratifying those I love. No other considera
tion could induce rae to spend another day of ray life in
objects in theraselves uninteresting, and which afford neither
instruction nor amuseraent. They become daily more dis
gusting to me ; in some degree, perhaps, owing lo my state
of health, which is much as when I left New- York. The
least fatigue brings a slight return of fever.
Your exercise, your medicine, and your reading are three
subjects upon which you have hitherto dwelt only in pros
pect. They musl be all, in sorae degree, within your pow
er. I have a partiality for the little study as your bedroom.
Say a word of each of these matters in your next.
Continue and multiply your letlers to me. They are aU
my solace in this irksome and laborious confineraent. The
six last are constantly within my reach. I read them once
a day at least. Write me of all I have requested, and a
hundred things which I have not. You best know how to
please and interest. Your affectionate
A. Burr.
Vol. I. — P p 13*

298 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 35.

FROM MRS. BURR. Pelham, 23d July, 1791.
I have just now received your welcome letter of the 17th
inst. The pleasure imparted by so flattering a testimony
of your good-will, was tempered wilh a large portion of alloy
in the confession of your ill health. I was apprehensive
travelling in the heal and bad accoraraodations would check
your recovery. Do return home as soon as possible ; or,
rather, come to Pelham ; try quiet, and the good air, and
the attention and friendship of those who love you. You
may command Bartow's attendance here whenever it suits
you, and you have a faithful envoy in Frederick, who will
go post with your coramands as often as you wish. It is,
indeed, of serious consequence to you, to establish your
health hefore you commence politician : when once you get
engaged, your industry will exceed your strength ; your pride
cause you lo forget yourself. But remember, you are not
your own ; there are those who have stronger claims than
ambition ought to have, or the public can have.
Why did you undertake that very laborious task you men
tion ? 'Tis certain I have a great pleasure in spending
money, but not when it is accompanied with the unpleasant
reflection of sacrificing your health lo the pursuit.
Theo. is much better ; she writes and ciphers from five
in the raorning to eight, and also the same hours in tlie
evening. This prevents our riding at those hours, except
Saturday and Sunday, otherwise I should cheerfully follow
your directions, as I rise at five or six every day. Theo.
makes amazing progress at figures. Though Louisa has
worked at thera aU winter, and appeared quite an adept at
first, yet Theo. is now before her, and assists her to raake
her sums. You will really be surprised at her improve
ment. I think her lime so well spent that I shall not wish
to return to town sooner than I am obliged. She does not
ride on horseback, though Frederick has a very pretty riding

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 299
horse he keeps for her ; but were she to attempt it now,
there would be so much jealousy, and so raany would wish
to take their turn, that it would really be impracticable.
But we have the best substitute imaginable. As you gave
me leave to dispose of the old wheels as I pleased, I gave
them as my part towards a wagon ; we have a good plain
Dutch wagon, that I prefer to a carriage when at Pelham,
as the exercise is much belter. We ride in numbers and
are weU jolted, and without dread. 'Tis the most powerful
exercise I know. No spring seats ; but, like so raany pigs,
we bundle together on straw. Four raUes are equal to
twenty. It is really an acquisition. I hope you will see
our little girl rosy cheeked and plurap as a partridge.
I rejoice with you at the poor major's return. I grow
lazy, and love leisure ; and, above all, the privilege of dis
posing of my own time with quiet and retirement when it
suits me. I have also made choice of the little study for
my own apartment ; but with so large a faraily, and so few
conveniences, there can be no place of retireraent. The va
cation hours of school, and Sunday, there is a constant
hurlyburly, and every kind of noise, though it is really
much better than I feared. I lake all things as philosophi
cally as I know how ; provided I have no real evil lo strug
gle with, I pass on wilh the tumult. I am now writing in
the midst of il. The variety of sounds alraost dim my sight ;
but I write on, and trust to good luck more than reflection.
I find so much to say that I need not hesitate for matter,
though I raight for propriety of speaking. My spirits are
better : as to industry, it is of a very flighty kind, and so va
riegated that it will not bear description. It required sorae
attention to get matters en train : it was like raoving. My
disorder I have not, nor ara not able to attend to ; 'tis at
tended wilh so raany disagreeable circurastances that it is
not practicable at present ; but ray general health is greatly
improved, and my head much relieved.
The hint you give respecting a rib for Frederick is more

300 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Agcd 35.
elating than I can express. You say nothing of B. That
part of my petition was not less interesting. I hurably pray
your honour may lake into consideration the equity and pro
priety of my prayer, and grant rae not only a hearing, but
deign to give due consideration to the prayer of your hum
ble petitioner, being confident she will find grace and mercy
from your tribunal, with a full grant of all your endeavours
to reinstate her in that desired tranquiUity whose source is
jn your breast, to that happiness which is suspended on your
-will. The heat and drought exceed all recollection. The town
is extremely unhealthy. It is fortunate we are here. There
is always air — never heat enough to incommode one. I am
certain the child would have suffered in town ; she was much
reduced ; her voice and breast were weak. Adieu. I think
you must be tired before this. Attend to yourself. If you
love us, you wUl. You wiU for your
Theodosia Burr.
from mrs. burr.
Pelham, 27th July, 1791.
I have lost some of your letters, and I make no doubt
some of mine have met the same fate ; for this reason I am
discouraged trusting any raore lo the stage. I ara obliged
to wait with all the patience I can command till the boat re
turns from town. I have no prospect al present of forward
ing this. I write to repeat my thanks for yours of the 17th.
It is the last I have received. I read it frequently, and al
ways with new pleasure. I was disappointed at not having
a line frora you by the Saturday's mail. It is not fair to
stand on punctilio, when you know the disadvantages attend
ing my situation here. You ought to be doubly attentive
pour me soulager. It is not so practicable to send some
miles frora home twice a week as you iraagine.
Poor Dr. Wright had his house two days ago bumt to the
ground, and all the furniture, with every article of clothing

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 301
both of theraselves and the children. She is very disconso
late, and much to be pitied. We certainly see the old prov
erb very often verified. " That misfortunes never come
singly," that poor little woman is a proof.
They talk of a general war in Em'ope ; in that case
le moulin wUl be an object. We wait your return to de
terraine all things. The Eraperess of Russia is as success
ful as I wish her. What a glorious figure will she raake on
the historical page ! Can you forra an idea of a raore happy
mortal than she will be when sealed on the throne of Con
stantinople ? How her arabition will be gratified ; the oppo
sition and threats of Great Britain, &c. will increase her
triuraph. I wish I had wit and iraportance enough to write
her a congratulatory letter. The ladies should deify her,
and consecrate a teraple lo her praise. Il is a diverting
thought, that the mighty Emperor of the Turks should be
subdued by a woraan. How enviable that she alone should
be the avenger of her sex's wrongs for so many ages past.
She seems to have awakened Justice, who appears to be a
sleepy dame in the cause of injured innocence.
Am I dreaming, or do you leave home again before you
go to Philadelphia ? Tell all your intentions ; I love to plan
and arrange. Our blind stale here is one of our raost vex
atious evils ; that state of uncertainty damps e-very view, and
converts our most pleasing hopes into the raost disappoint
ing reflections.
Hy ! ho ! for the major.* I am tired to death of living
in a nursery. It is very well to be amused with children at
an idle hour; but their interruption at all limes is insup
portable to a person of comraon reflection. My nerves will
not admit of it. You judge right as to the roads on the
Neck. Theodosia is quite recovered, and makes great progress
at ciphering. I cannot say so much in favour of her wri-
* Major Prevost, who was a widower, and whose children were left in the car"
of Mrs. Burr while he made a voyage to England.

302 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 35.
ting. I really think she lost the last raonth she went to
Shepherd. She has not improved since last spring. She
is sensible of it, is the reason she is not very desirous to
give you a specimen. We now keep her chiefly at figures,
which she finds very difficult, particularly to proportion
thera, and place them straight under each other.
I will conclude my scrawl in the hope that Frederick
will be able to forward it for me. Adieu. Remeraber to
answer all ray questions, and to take all my prayers in seri
ous consideration. Be attentive to your health, and you will
add to the happiness of your Theodosia.
to mrs. burr.
Albany, 31st July, 1791.
At length expectation is gratified, and my hopes — even
ray wishes, fulfiUed. Your letters ofthe 16th and 23d came
both by the last post. Their ease, their elegance, and,
above all, the affection they contain, are truly engaging and
amiable. Be assured that petitions so clothed and attended
are irresistible.
I anticipate with increasing impatience the hour of leav
ing this place, and am raaking every possible exertion to
advance it. The delay of two days at Red Hook is indis
pensable, but wUl cost rae much regret.
I finished on Monday last, tolerably to ray own satisfac
tion, and I believe entirely to that of ray employers, the bu
siness so often mentioned to you. I received in reward for
ray labour many thanks, twenty half joes, and promises of
more of both of these articles.
The last post is the only one I have missed since I left
Esopus. I was in court upon a trial which gave me not a
moment's intermission till len o'clock that evening. Though
I do not pay you in quaUty and raanner (for yours are, with
out flattery, iniraitable), I believe I am noihing in arrear in
number or quantity. The present is indeed a poor return

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr, 303
for your two last ; but though you miss of the recompense
in this sheet, you will find it in the heart of your
A. Burr.

TO MRS. burr.
Philadelphia, 27th October, 1791.
I have this day received your letter dated Sunday morn
ing. It came, not by Mr. Sedgwick, but by the post, and
was not put into the postoffice until Tuesday. It was
therefore wicked of you not to add a line of that date.
I ara surprised to find that you had not received my let
ter frora Brunswick. The iUness I then wrote you of in
creased the next day, so that I did not arrive in town until
Sunday. I am still at Miss Roberts's, and unsettled, but
hope lo be to-raorrow in tolerable winter-quarters. I have
had some trouble on that head, as well because I ara diffi
cult to please, as because good accoramodations are difficult
to find.
I receive many attentions and civilities. Many invita
tions to dine, &c. All of which I have declined, and have
not eaten a raeal except at my own quarters. You see,
therefore, how little amuseraent you are to expect. I caUed
al Mrs. L.'s (the elder), but have not seen either her, or as
yet called to see her daughter. I have no news of Brooks,
and am distressed by his delay, having scarcely decent
clothes. I prudently brought a coat, but noihing to wear
with it, and the expectation of Brooks has prevented me
frora getting any thing here. Send me a waistcoat, white
and brown, such as you designed. You know I am never
pleased except with your taste.
I -wrote you the day after my arrival here, but it being
past the post hour, kept il till Tuesday ; made a sraall addi
tion, and gave it to Mat. to carry to the office. He put it
into his coat-pocket (I suppose wilh his pocket-handker
chief, which you know he has occasion to flourish along
Street). On the day following, with a face of wo, he told

304 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 35.
rae he had lost the letler, but had concealed it from me in
hopes to have found it. I hope it raay fall into good-na
tured hands, and so get eventusUly into the postoffice. It
was short and stupid ; miusually so, which perhaps vexed
rae the raore for the loss. Be assured you have nothing to
regret. This leiter can have nothing to recoramend it but good-
wUl and length, though the latter, without sorae other raerit,
ought to conderan it ; and it would, I ara sure, with any but
you, who will give the best constmction to any thing from
your
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Philadelphia, 30th October, 1791.
I am at length settled in winter-quarters. The house
stands about twenty yards back from the street, and is in
habited by two widows. The mother about seventy, and
the daughter about fifty. The latter, however, has her home
in the country, and comes to town occasionally. The old
lady is deaf, and upon my first coming to take possession of
my lodgings, she with great civility requested that I would
never attempt to speak to her, for fear of injuring my lungs
without being able to make her hear. I shall faithfully obey
this injunction. The house is reraarkably quiet, orderly,
and is well fumished. They have never before taken a per
son to board, and will take no other.
The honour which I have always done to your taste, and
which indeed it raerits, ought to have assured you that your
advice requires no apology. I shall adopt your ideas about
the wheels. If al the sarae time you had caused the cora
raission to be executed, you would have added civility to
good intentions.
Theodosia raust not atterapt music in the way she was
taught last spring. For the present, let it be wholly omit
ted. Neither would I have her renew her dancing tUl the

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 305
family are arranged. She can proceed in her French, and
get some teacher to attend her in the house for writing and
arithraetic. She has raade no progress in the latter, and is
even ignorant of the rudiments. She was hurried through
different rules without having been able to do a single sum
with accuracy. I would wish her to be also taught geogra
phy, if a proper master can be found ; but suspend this till
the arrival of the major.
It is remarkable that you should find yourself so soon dis
couraged from writing, because you had written one leiter
before you had received one. I had written you two before
the receipt of your first. But I shall in future expect two or
three for one, as the labour of business will prevent my wri
ting frequently.
Remember the note to be put in the bank on Wednesday.
If Bartow should not arrive, send Strong for Willet. Adieu.
Yours,
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Philadelphia, 14th November, 1791.
I recollect noihing of the letter I wrote to you, and which
is referred to in yours of the 9lh. You have no forgive
ness to ask or to receive of me. If il was necessary, you
had it even at the moment I read your letter. You mistake
the nature of my emotions. They had nothing of asperity;
but it is useless to explain them. I did it partially in a let
ter I wrote soon after that which I sent you in answer to
yours. It was not such a leiter as I ought lo have writteh,
or you would have wished to receive ; I therefore retained it.
In what way, or to what degree, I am affected by your
letter of the 9th, wiU not be told untU we raeet. Be assu
red, however, that I look forward to that time with impa
tience and anticipate it with pleasure. It rests wholly with;
you, and your conduct on this occasion will be a better in
dex to your heart than any thing you can wrUe. , *''
Vol. I.— Q q

306 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 35.
I enclose you a newspaper of this evemng, containing a
report by Mr. Jefferson about vacant lands. When you
have perused it, send il to Melancton Smith. Take care,
however, to gel it back and preserve it, as it is one of Fre-
neau's. I send you also three of Freneau's papers, which,
with that sent this morning, are aU he has published. I
wish them to be preserved. If you find them amusing, you
may coraraand thera regularly. Adieu.
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Philadelphia, 14th November, 1791.
, I ara to-day in much better heart than at any time since
I left New-York. John Walts took me yesterday a long
walk, and, though fatigued, I was not exhausted. He takes
every occasion to show rae friendship and attention. I see
no reason for your delaying to make a visit here. The
roads are good and the season fine. If you do not choose
to corae directly to ray lodgings, which are comraodious and
retired, I will meet you either at Dr. Edwards's, two railes
from the Red Lion, or at the Red Lion, which is twelve
miles from this city. Your first stage will be to Brunswick,
your second Trenton, and your third here.
I expressed rayself Ul if I led you to believe that I wish
ed any evidence or criterion of Theodosia's understanding.
I desire only to proraote its growth by its application euid
exercise. Her present eraployments have no such tenden
cy, unless arithmetic engages a part of her attention. Than
this, nothing can be raore useful, or better advance the ob
ject I have in view. Other studies, proraising similar ad
vantages, must, perhaps, for the reasons you raention, be for
the present postponed.
I hope this weather will relieve you from the most de
pressing of all diseases, the influenza. Exercise will not
cure, but Will prevent the return of it. I prescribe, how
ever, what I do not practice. You have often wished for

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 307
opportunities to read ; you now have, and, I hope, improve
them. I should be glad to know how your attention is di
rected. Of the success I have no doubt.
To the subject of politics, which composes a part of your
letter, I can at present make no reply. The mode of com-
•municalion would not permit, did no other reasons oppose it.
I have no voice, but could undoubtedly have some influ
ence in the appointment you speak of. For the man, you
know I have always entertained rauch esteem ; bui it is here
said that he drinks. The effect of the belief, even of the
suspicion of this, could not be controverted by any exertion
or influence of his friends. I had not, before the receipt of
your letter, heard of his wishes on the subject you mention.
The slander, if slander il be, I had heard often and with
pain. Sincerely yours, A. Burr.
TO MISS THEODOSIA BURR.*
Philadelphia, 1st December, 1791.
Enclosed in Bartow's last letter carae one which, from
the handwriting, I supposed lo be from that great fal fellow.
Colonel Troup. Judge of my pleasure and surprise when
I opened and found it was from ray dear little girl. You
improve rauch in your writing. Let your next be in sraall
hand. Why do you neither acknowledge nor answer ray last let
ter ? That is not kind — it is scarcely civU. I beg you wiU
not lake a fortnight to answer this, as you did the other,
and did not answer it at last ; for I love to hear from you,
and StiU more to receive your letters. Read my last leiter
again, and answer it particularly. Your affectionate
A. Burr.
* In the ninth year of her age.

308 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 35

TO MRS. BURR. Philadelphia, 4th December, 1791.
I fear I have for the present deprived you of the pleas
ure of reading Gibbon. If you cannot procure the loan of
a London edition, I will send you that which I have here.
In truth, I bought it for you, which is almost confessing a
robbery. Edward Livingston and Richard Harrison have
each a good set, and either would cheerfully oblige you.
To render any reading really amusing or in any degree
instructive, you should never pass a word you do not under
stand, or the narae of a person or place of which you have
i)|Dt some knowledge. You will say that attention to such
matters is too great an interruption. If so, do but note them
down on paper, and devote an hour particularly to them
when you have finished a chapter or corae to a proper
pause. After an experiment of this raode, you will never
abandon it. Lerapriere's Dictionary is that of which I spoke
to you. Purchase also Macbeau's ; this last is appropriated
to ancient theocracy, fiction, and geography ; both of them
will be useful in reading Gibbon, and still more so in read
ing ancient authors, or of any period of ancient history.
If you have never read Plutarch's Lives (or even if you
have), you wUl read them with much pleasure. They are
in the City Library, and probably in many private ones. Be-
loe's Herodotus will amuse you. Bartow has il. You had
belter read the text without the notes ; they are diffuse, and
tend to distract the attention. Now and then they contain
some useful explanation. After you have read the author,
you will, I think, with more pleasure read the notes and re
raarks in course by theraselves.
You expressed a curiosity to peruse Paley's Philosophy
of Natural History. Judge Hobart has it. If you read il,
be sure to make yourself mistress of all the terras. But,
if you continue your Gibbon, it will find you in eraploy
ment for some days. When you are weary. of soaring

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 309
with him, and wish to descend into common life, read the
Comedies of Plautus. There is a tolerable translation in
the City Library. Such books give the most lively and
amusing, perhaps much the most just picture, of the man
ners and degree of refinement of the age in which they
were written. I have agreed with Popham for his share in
the City Library.
The reading of one book will invite you to another. I
cannot, I fear, at this distance, advise you successfully ;
much less can I hope to assist you in your reading. You
bid me be sUent as to ray expectations ; for the present I
obey. Your coraplaint of your memory, even if founded i
in fact, contains nothing discouraging or alarming. I wouldi
not wish you lo possess that kind of meraory which retains
with accuracy and certainty all naraes and dates. I never
knew il to accorapany rauch invention or fancy. It is
almost the exclusive blessing of dulness. The mind which
perceives clearly adopts and appropriates an idea, and is
thus enlarged and invigorated. It is of little moraent
whether the book, the tirae, or the occasion be recollected.
I am inclined to dilate on these topics, and upon the
effects of reading and study on the mind ; but this would
require an essay, and I have not time to -write a let
ter. I am also much prorapted to convince you, by unde
niable proof, that the ground of your coraplaint does not
exist except in your own apprehensions, but this I reserve
for an interview. Wh^Sn I ara inforraed of your progress,
and of the direction of your taste, I raay have something
further to recommend.
There is no probability of an adjournment of Congress
during the holydays, or for any longer lime than one day.
The possibility of my being able to leave the business of
Congress, and raake a visit lo New- York, dirainishes daily.
I wish rauch to see you, and, if you are equally sincere,
we can accomplish it by meeting at Trenton. I can be
there on Friday night, but with rauch greater convenience on

310 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 35.
Saturday noon or forenoon, and stay tUl Monday raorning
al least. Congress adjourns every week from three o'clock
on Friday until eleven o'clock on Monday foUowing. If,
therefore, you write me that you wUl be at Trenton al the
times above mentioned, you may rely on seeing me there : I
raean at Mrs. Hooper's. This, though very practicable at
present, wiU not long be so, by reason of the roads, which
at present are good. If you make this trip, your footman
must be on horseback; the burden wiU be otherwise too
great, and I must have timely notice by letter. Mr. and
Mrs. Paterson have invited you to make their house your
jhome at Brunswick.
/i Mat. laughs at your corapliments, as you know he does
at every thing. I expect Theodosia's messages to be writ
ten by herself. I inquire about your health, but you do
not answer me. Yours affectionately,
A. Burr.
TO MRS. burr.
Philadelphia, December 13th, 1791.
I regret the disappointment of the Trenton visit, but still
more the occasion of it. Are you afflicted with any of your
old, or with what new complaint ?
Tell Bartow that I have this evening received his letter
' by Vining, who arrived in \eiNn last Monday. Beg him
never again to write by a private hand about business when
there is a post. After the lapse of five or six days without
an answer, he should have sent a duplicate. You have
herewith the note for 4500 dollars.
I was charmed with your reflections on the books of two
of our eminent characters. You have, in a few words,
given a livel^'^ortrait of the raen and their works. I could
not repress the vanity of showing it to a friend of one of
the authors.
The njelancholy news of the disasters of our western

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 311
army has engrossed ray thoughts for sorae days past. No
public event since the war has given rae equal anxiety.
Official accounts were received from General Sinclair on
Sunday. The reports which preceded, and which have
doubtless reached you before this time, had not exaggerated
the loss or the disgrace. No authentic estimate of the num
ber of the killed has yet been received ; I fear it will not be
less than eight or nine hundred. The retreat was raarked
with precipitation and terror. The men disencumbered
themselves even of their arms and accoutrements. Il is
some small consolation to have leamed that the troops which
fled to Fort Jefferson have received a supply of provisions,
and are secure from any attack of the savages.
I approve, and hope at some time lo execute, your plan
of literary repose. Tell Bartow to send a deed for me to
execute to Carpenter, pursuant lo our contract. Pray at
tend to this ; you will see that it may be a lillie interesting
to me. Yours truly,
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Philadelphia, 15th December, 1791.
The post which arrived this aftemoon (Thursday) brought
the mail which left New- York on Tuesday, and with it
your sprightly and engaging letler of the 12th. I thank
you for your attention to my friend, and still more for the
pleasure you express al his visit. Your " nonsense'' about
Voltaire contains more good sense than all the strictures I
have seen upon his works put together.
Next to your own ideas, those you gave me from Mr. J.
were raost acceptable. I wish you would continue to give
me any fugitive ideas or reraarks which may occur to you
in the course of your reading ; and what you call your rat
tling way is that of all others which pleases me the raost.

312 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 35.
In short, let the way be your own, and it cannot fail to be
acceptable, lo please, and to amuse.
I enclose this evening's paper. It contains Strictures on
Publicola, which you, perhaps, raay find worth reading.
Frora an attentive perasal of the French Constitution, and
a careful exaraination of their proceedings, I am a warm ad
mirer of the essential parts of the plan of govemment vvhich
they have instituted, and of the talents and disinterestedness
of the members of the National Asserably. Adieu.
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Philadelphia, 18th December, 1791.
Mr. Learned arrived yesterday with your letter of the
15th. He appeared pleased with your attentions, which
you know gratified me.
I cannot recoUect what hint I gave to Major P. which
could have intimated an expectation of seeing you in New-
York during the current year ; unless, indeed, some of those
wishes which I too often cherish should have escaped rae.
We shall have no intermission of business during the holy-
days. If I should find it al any time practicable to absent
myself for a few days, it will most probably be about the
middle of next month. You have indeed, in your last let
ter, placed yourself before me in the most araiable light ; and,
without soliciting, have rauch raore strongly enticed me to
a visit. But for the present I must resist. Will it not be
possible for you to meet rae at Trenton, that we may travel
together lo New-York ? If you assent to this, I will name
a day. Yet do not expose your health. On this subject
you leave me still to apprehension and conjecture.
Your account of Madame Genlis surprises rae, and is a
new evidence of the necessity of reading books before we
put them into the hahds of children. Reputation is indeed
a precarious test. I can think at present of nothing better
than what you have chosen.

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 313
I ara much in want of my maps of the different parts of
North America. It will, I believe, be best to send them all,
carefully put up in a box which must be made for the pur
pose. You may omit the map of New-Jersey. The pack
ing will require much care, as many are in sheets. Ask
Major P. for the survey he gave rae of the St. Lawrence, of
different parts of Canada, and of other provinces, and send
them also forward. They raay be sent by the Araboy stage,
taking a receipt, which transmit to me.
You would excuse the slovenliness, and admire the length
of this scrawl, if you could look into my study, and see
the file of unanswered, and even wnperused letters ; bundles
of papers on public and on private business ; all soliciting
that preference of attention which Theodosia knows how to
command frora her
Aaron.
to mrs. burr.
Philadelphia, 27th December, 1791.
What can have exhausted or disturbed you so much ?
You might surely have given some hint of the cause. It i»
an additional reason for wishing you here. If I had, before
I left New-York, sufficiently reflected on the subject, I would
never have consented to this absurd and frrational mode of
life. If you will come with Mr. Monroe, I will see you to
New-York again ; and if you have a particular aversion to thc
city of Philadelphia, you shall slay a day or two at Dr. Ed
wards's, ten railes frora town, where I can spend the greater
part of every day.
You will perhaps admire that I cannot leave Congress as
well as others. This, if a problem, can only be solved at a
personal interview.
You perceive that I have received yt ur letter of the 18th.
It was truly acceptable, and needed no apology. I do not
always expect letters of wit or scien ;e ; and I beg you
will write wholly without restraint, both as to quantity and
Vol. I.— R r 14

314 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [-A-ged 35.
manner. If you write little, I shall be glad to receive it ;
and if you write more, I shall be still more glad ; but when
you find it a troublesorae or laborious occupation, which I
have the vanity to hope will never happen, orait it. I lake,
and shall continue to use, this freedora on ray part ; but I
am for ever obliged to put some restraint on myself, for I
often sacrifice the calls of business to the pleasure of wri
ting to you. 27th December, at night.
This evening I am suffering under a severe paroxysm of
the headache. Your letters, received to-night, have tended
to beguile the lime, and were at least a temporary relief, I
ara now sitting wilh ray feet in warm water, my head
wrapped in vinegar, and drinking chamomile tea, and all
hitherto to little purpose. I have no doubt, however, but I
shall be well to-morrow. As I shall not probably sleep till
moming, and shall not rise in season to acknowledge your
kind letters, I have attempted this line. I am charmed with
your account of Theodosia. Kiss her a hundred limes for
rae. The reports of my style of life are, I should have thought,
too improbable to be related, and rauch too absurd to gain
belief, or even attention.
I have been these three weeks procuring two trifles to
send you ; but am at length out of all patience with the
stupidity and procrastination of those employed ; especially
as the principal article is a piece of furniture, a personal
convenience, which, when done, will not cost five dollars.
The other is something between a map and a picture.
Though they will not arrive at the season I wished, they
wUl at any season be tokens of the affection of
A. Burr.

Aged 36.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 315

TO MRS. BURR. Philadelphia, 2d January, 1792.
My dear Theodosia,
Mr. Trumbull is good enough to engage to deliver this.
You have long known and adraired the briUiancy of his ge
nius and wil ; I wish you also to know the araiable qualities
of his heart.
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Philadelphia, 19th Febraary, 1792.
Yesterday I received your truly affectionate leiters ; one
daled Thursday evening, the other without date.
You raay expect a host of such falsehoods as that about
the Indian war. I have not been offered any comraand.
When the part I take in the bill on that subject shall be
fully known, I ara sure il will give entire satisfaction to my
friends. It will not do for me at present to leave this place. I
shall therefore expect you here ; and if you cannot spare
the time to corae here, I will meet you either at Prince
ton or Trenton (preferring the latter) any evening you shaU
name. Saturdays and Sundays, you know, are our holy-
days. I can with ease be at Trenton at breakfast on Sat
urday morning, or even on Friday evening, if thought more
eligible. But I expect this letter will pass you on your way
here. My rooms at No. 130 Soulh Second-street are ready
to receive you and Mrs. A., if she chooses to be of the party.
But the tenour of your last induces me to think that you in
tend a very short visit, or rather, that you wiU come ex
press. Arrange it as you please, provided I see you some
where and soon.
I have a letter from Witbeck of a later date than that by
Strong, and of much more satisfactory tenour. I believe he
wUl not disappoint the expectations of my friends. He re-

316 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 36
quests that some persons in New-York may write to him
and others in and about Albany, giving an account of the
expectations in Ulster, Dutchess, and the Southern District,
and naming persons who may be corresponded with.
My lodgings are on the right hand as you come. Drive
directly up a while gate between two lamps, and take pos
session. If I should be out, the servant wUl know where,
and wiU find me in a few minutes. Do not travel with any
election partisan (unless an opponent). Yours,
A. Burr.
TO Miss theodosia BURR-.
Albany, Sth August, 1792.
My dear Theo.,
I have received your letter, which is very short, and says
not one word of your mamma's health. You talk of going to
Westchester, but do not say when or how.
Mr. and Mrs. Witbeck and their daughter talk very much
about you, and would be very glad to see you.
See what a letter I have got from little Burr,* and all his
own work too. Before I left home I wrote him a leiter re
questing him lo tell me what I should bring him ; and in
answer, he begs me to bring mamma and you. A pretty
present, indeed, that would be !
Your father,
A. Burr.
FROM DR. BENJAMIN RUSH.
Philadelphia, 24th September, 1792.
Dear Sir,
This letter will be handed to you by Mr. Beckley. He
possesses a fund of information about men and things. The
republican ferment continues to work in our state ; and the
time, I think, is approaching very fast when we shaU uni-
* Nephew of Colonel Burr.

Aged 36.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 317
versally reprobate the maxim of sacrificing public justice
and national gratilucle to the interested ideas of stock-job
bers and brokers, whether in or out of the legislature of the
United States.
Your friends everywhere look to you to lake an active
part in removing the monarchical rubbish of our govern
ment. It is tirae to speak out, or we are undone. The as
sociation in Boston augurs well. Do feed it by a leiter to
Mr. Sarauel Adaras. My letler wiU serve to introduce you
to him, if enclosed in one from yourself. Mrs. Rush joins
me in best compliments to Mrs. Burr, with
Yours sincerely,
Benjamin Rush.
to miss theodosia burr.
Westchester, Sth October, 1792.
— I rose up suddenly frora the sofa, and rubbing my
head — " What book shall I buy for her ?" said I to myself.
" She reads so much and so rapidly that it is not easy to find
proper and amusing French books for her ; and yet I am so
flattered with her progress in that language, that I am re
solved that she shaU, at aU events, be gratified. Indeed, I
owe it to her." So, after walking once or twice briskly
across the floor, I took ray hat and salUed out, deterrained
not to return till I had purchased something. It was not
my first attempt. I went into one bookseller's shop after
another. I found plenty of fairy tales and such nonsense,
fit for the generality of children of nine or ten years old,
" These," said I, " will never do. Her understanding be
gins to be above such things ;'' but I could see nothing that
I would offer with pleasure to an intelligent, well-informed
girl of nine years old. I began to be discouraged. The
hour of dining was come. " But I will search a little
longer." I persevered. At last I found it. I found the very
thing I sought. It is contained in two volumes octavo,
handsomely bound, and with prints and registers. It is a

318 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 36.
work of fancy, but replete with instruction and amusement.
I must present it with my own hand.
Your affectionate
A. Burr

CHAPTER XVI.
The correspondence in the last chapter between Mr.
and Mrs. Burr has been selected and published that the
world may judge hira as husband and parent, so far as his
letters afford a criterion. As hterary productions they can
not fail to interest and arause.
On the 8lh day of March, 1790, the legislature passed an
act appointing Gerard Bancker, treasm-er, Peter Curtenius,
auditor, and Aaron Burr, attorney-general, a board of cora
raissioners to report on the subject of the various claims
against the slate for services rendered, or injuries sustained,
during the war of the revolution. The task was one of
great delicacy, and surrounded with difficulties. On Colonel
Burr devolved the duty of making that report. Il was per
formed in a masterly manner. When presented to the
house, notwithstanding its magnitude, involving claims of
every description to an immense amount, it raet with no
opposition frora any quarter. On the Sth of April, 1792,
the report was ordered to be entered at length on the jour
nals of the asserably, and forraed the basis of aU future set
tlements with pubhc creditors on account of the war. In
it the various claimants are classified; legal and equitable
principles are established, and applied to each particular
class. The report occupies eighteen folio pages of the
journals of the assembly. An extract from it is made, as
justly meriting a place in this work.
The said report is in the words and figures following : —

Aged 36.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 319
" The treasurer, the auditor, and the attorney-general, pur
suant to the act entitled An act to receive and state accounts
against this state, did forthwith, after the passing of the said
act, give such notice of their appointraent and duties, and of
the times and places for the execution thereof, and of the
period by the said act liraited for receiving and auditing
clairas, as is directed by the said act. And do herewith
transmit lo the legislature their report upon the accounts
and clairas against the state, which have been thereupon
exhibited. " The anxiety of the coraraissioners lo render the execu
tion of this trust useful and acceptable has occasioned a
delay of sorae weeks ; if their success in this attempt has
been in any degree proportioned lo thefr attention to the
subject, it will furnish their excuse ; indeed, when the legis
lature shall have seen the nuraber, the variety, and intri
cacy of the raatters which have been submitted to the con
sideration of the coraraissioners, it is hoped that a further
apology will be thought unnecessary.
" The commissioners have endeavoured lo reduce these
various demands into classes, in such manner as to present
to the legislature, in one view, all which have appeared to
depend on similar principles. Notwithstanding their ut
most attention to this object, they have found it necessary
to report on a considerable number of single cases. As the
authority under which they have acted required of thera a
state of facts, together with their opinion thereupon, when
ever there was a want of uniformity either in the facts
subraitted or in the principles to be applied in the deter
raination, they have thought that strict justice could not
be done to the merit of the claim without a separate dis
cussion J though this has tended to lengthen the report be
yond what could have been wished, and to a degree which
perhaps may in some instances be thought prolix, yet the
commissioners supposed it of moment that their investiga
tion should be not only satisfactory to themselves, but that

320 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 36.
it should be apparent to the citizens upon whose claims
they have pronounced, that each hath received a distinct
attention, and that deraands substantially different from
each other have not been inconsiderately blended. If the
perusal of the proceedings now subraitted shall give an
irapression of this kind, it wiU, ra the opinion of the cora
raissioners, lend to produce a more cheerful acquiescence in
the determination of the legislature, when that deterraina
tion shall reject the demand, and prevent a revival of claims
which shaU now be extinguished. The commissioners
have thought that these were desirable objects, and have
therefore been cautious of generaUzing, so as to destroy
real distinctions, or suppress a fact even of the Ughtest
importance. "In order to preserve uniformity in thefr opinions, the
commissioners have adopted certain principles, from which
the hardship of any particular case hath not induced them
to depart. The raost general and important of these are,
" First. Where any species of claims is barred by an act
of the legislature, they have considered the act as a bar to
their investigation, farther than to ascertain it> to be unques
tionably within the raeaning of the law. This principle
will be found to extend to all clairas for pay and rations
alleged to be due for militia service ; to most of the de
mands against forfeited estates ; to all claims for property
sequestered, when the sequestration was warranted by the
resolutions of the convention and the authority of the com
missioners ; to all claims of payraent of state agents' notes,
and to sorae other particular cases, which will appear in the
report. In support of this principle the commissioners
have considered, that to sanction by their opinion the admis
sion of claims against the spirit and letter of the statute
would be an impeachment of the wisdora of those laws ;
would be arrogating an authority not exercised by, or per
mitted to, any court of law or equity, and would open a
door to the importunate and perhaps least deserving class

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 321
of citizens, while others, having similar demands, had with
drawn thera frora a spirit of subraission to the laws, by
which these demands were precluded. The commission
ers have been confirmed in the propriety of thefr ideas by
a reflection that, if it shall for any reasons seem expedient
to the legislature lo repeal or suspend the limitation of
those or any of those statutes, the avenues to redress will
at once be open through the ordinary officers of the state,
without farther legislative interposition ; and that the oppor
tunities of recompense would then be notorious and equal ;
but that the redress, if any shoqld be obtained through the
medium of the coraraissioners, would be partial in ils oper-?
ation, and to the exclusion of those who with equal merits
had acquiesced in the known laws.
"Second. In the cases of claims for services done and
supplies furnished during the war, when the demand, though
originating under the authority of this state, is properly
against the United Stales, the opinion of the coraraissioners
is against the allowance of any recompense, because those
claims should more properly be preferred to Congress ; and
for that this state can have no credit with the United States
for payment or assumptions after the 1st day of October,
1788. " And that, therefore, the claimants having neglected to
exhibit their demands within the period during which this
state could without loss have assumed them, cannot com^
plain if they are now referred lo the proper tribunal. Pay^
ments by the state were in such cases, at all times, of
favour, and not of right.
" Third. All claims for the subsistence and services of
the levies and militia, or other troops, composing a part of
the continental army, or destined lo join the array, and
moving to such places of destination, or under the coraraand
or orders of a continental officer, and all claims for sup?
plies and services beforehand for such troops, are consid?
ered as proper against the United States only, and ayg
Vol. I.— S s H*

322 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 35.
classed accordingly ; the coraraissioners have been led to a
raore strict attention to this distinction by the reasons just
before raentioned, and are warranted by the practice of the
continental coraraissioners for settling accounts, in decla
ring that such accounts and demands were proper against
the Umted States.
"Principles of more limited operation, and other re
marks, wUl appear in those parts of the report lo which
they apply.
" Explanatory of particular parts, and of the general form
of the report, it may be proper to observe,
" That where the claim or account appears, upon the face
of it, to be evidently against the United States only, or for
other reasons palpably inadmissible, the coraraissioners have
thought it would have been superfluous lo state the proof,
and have therefore, in those cases only, given such abstracts
of the claira or account as suffice to render the exception
apparent. " In giving their opinion, the coranussioners have not de
tailed all the reasons which led to it, but have given a sura-
mary of such as appeared to them most conclusive ; and, as
well in this as in staling the facts, have aimed at as much
brevity as appeared to them to consist with perspicuity. If
they shall be found in any instances obscure, a reference to
the claira and proofs will probably elucidate thera. When
the claim is provided for by existing laws, the opinion of
the commissioners refers the claimant to the raode pointed
out by such law.
" Deraands of different natures by the sarae person are
placed under the head which comprises the greater demand.
The claim and vouchers being in such cases usually con
tained in the same paper or annexed together, it was neces
sary so to place them in the report that there raight be no
confusion in the references.
" To produce facUity in the review of these proceedings,
the documents referred to are all herewith delivered, and

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 323
are in bundles, marked agreeably to the heads under which
they are classed. " Claims for Militia Pay.
[In the report a number of cases are here inserted.]
" By an act passed the 27th of April, 1784, entitled An
act for the settlement of the pay of the levies and militia
for their services in the late war, and for other purposes
therein mentioned, the mode in which the rolls and abstracts
for pay and subsistence are to be made out and settled is
particularly pointed out, and competent powers and direc
tions for the liquidation of those accounts are thereby given
to the treasurer and auditor.
" By the 14th section of an act passed the 21sl of AprU,
1787, entitled An act for the relief of persons who paid
money into the treasury. Sec., the aforesaid act of the 27th
of April, 1784, is repealed. The coraraissioners consider
this repeal as an exclusion of all further clairas for pay and
subsistence of the raUitia and levies. They are constrained
to adopt this opinion, not only from the obvious intention of
the act, but because, by the absolute repeal of the act of the
27lh of April, 1784, there remains no prescribed mode of
authenticating these deraands ; that any rules which the dis
cretion of the commissioners should lead them to adopt
would have been unknown to the claimants, who could
therefore have had no opportunity of adapting their demands
to such rules ; and because, if the legislature shall be dis
posed lo direct compensations for sUch services, it will, in
the opinion of the coraraissioners, be raost properly effected
by a revival of the said act of the 27th of April, 1 784, with
such further provisions and checks as may be thought ne
cessary ; or by some other general statute, to be passed for
those purposes, and which raay give equal opportunities to
the claimants, and place the liquidation and settlement of
euch demands in the hands of the ordinary officers of ths
state.

324 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 35.
" Claims for services, supplies, and losses, which, if ad
missible, can he made against the United States only.
[In the report detaUs follow, and the coraraissioners re
raark] —
" The foregoing clairas and accounts the commissioners
conceive to be proper against the United Slates only. This
is, in their opinion, sufficiently evident in raost of the cases
frora a bare stateraent of the deraands. Sorae few appear
to require a more special report. The resolutions of Con
gress of the 7th of May, 1787, and 24lh of June, 1788, rel
ative to the settleraent of accounts between the United
States and individual stales, will show the extent of the
powers of the Continental Commissioners, and will serve to
explain the opinions in such of the preceding cases as raay
appear to require farther iUustration.
" Claims for payment of State Agents' Certificates.
"By the 25th section of the act passed the 5th of May,
1786, entitled An act for the payment of certain sums of
money, and for other purposes therein mentioned, all per
sons holding or possessing certificates of Udny Hay or any
of his assistants, or of Jacob Cuyler, Morgan Lewis, or
Andrew Bostwick, were required to present them, in the
raanner therein prescribed, to the treasurer, before the 1st
of September, 1786 ; and those who faUed therein are there
by declared to he barred and for ever precluded from any
compensation, of which the treasurer was directed lo give
public notice by advertiseraent, which was accordingly done.
"By another act, passed the 31st of March, 1787, the
time for presenting the certificates of Udny Hay and his as
sistants was extended until the first of May then next, which
time has not been further extended by any law of this state :
so that all certificates of those denominations which were
not presented within the limes and in the manner specified

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS of Aaron burr. 325
in those laws, are expressly barred and for ever precluded
from compensation.
" The commissioners have therefore, for the reasons con
tained in the observations prefixed lo this report, conceived
that a reference to the aforesaid acts was the most proper
discharge of their duly wilh respect to all clairas of com
pensation for such certificates.
" Claims for grain impressed for the use of the army by
virtue of warrants issued hy his excellency the governor,
pursuant to an act passed 23d June, 1780.
" The law authorizing these irapresses declares the arti
cles irapressed to be for the use and service of the army,
and that the owner shall be entitled to receive frora the pub
lic officer authorized to pay the same the current price for
the articles impressed, but does not say by whom that pub
lic officer is to be appointed. The coraraissioners have,
however, no doubt but these were proper clairas against the
United Stales, and would have been allowed by the Conti
nental Commissioner if exhibited in proper season ; there
fore, and for the reasons coniained in the second prelimina
ry observation, the coraraissioners are of the opinion that
these claimants cannot of right demand payment of this
state. " The claims of Van Rensselaer and Dumond, the cora
raissioners are of opinion are reasonable ; that, having been
employed under the governor, the clairaants could have no
demand against the United States, and that the charges are
proper against this state.
" Claims for services in assisting H. I. Van Rensselaer and
Egbert Dumond in making the said impresses.
" The commissioners consider the reasons just before
stated in favour of the claims of Van Rensselaer and Du
mond to apply lo the eleven preceding, and that they are
therefore proper charges against this state.

326 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 35.
" Claims for payment of debts due from persons whose
property hath been forfeited or sequestered.
" The several foregoing deraands against forfeited es
tales arose after the 9lh day of July, 1776, and are ex
pressly precluded by the 42d section of an act passed the
12th of May, 1784, entitled An act for the speedy sale of
the confiscated and forfeited estates within this state, and
for other purposes therein mentioned.
" The ne.xt twenty-five clairas are for satisfaction of debts
out of the proceeds of property sequestered. The estates
of the several debtors have becorae forfeited, but in some
instances no property hath come to the hands of the com
missioners of forfeitures ; and in others, the property which
has come to thefr hands hath been insufficient for the dis
charge of debts which have been certified.
" The succeeding twenty-six claims are to have debts
satisfied out of the proceeds of property sequestered, though
there had been no conviction of adherence or other forfeit
ure of the estate of the debtors.
" The coraraissioners are of opinion that a law should be
passed authorizing the treasurer to pay demands against
forfeited estates, in all cases where there still reraains in
his hcinds a surplus frora the proceeds of such estates, not
withstanding the lirailation coniained in the act of 1 2th May,
17S4. But the coraraissioners would recomraend that some
mode different from that prescribed in the said act be di
rected for the ascertaining the amount of those demands.
The several clairaants and such others as have neglected to
avaU themselves of the benefit of the said act, raay, in the
opinion of the coraraissioners, be with propriety holden to
strict legal proof of their respective demands, in due course
of law, in some court of record, where the interest of the
state may be defended by some officer to be for that pur
pose appointed.
" The commissioners are further of opinion, that where

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 327
there has been a sequestration of any part of the property
of a person whose estate hath become forfeited, the avaUs
of the property so sequestered, as far as the sarae ca7i he
distinguished, should be subject to the payment of his debts,
in like raanner as raay be provided with respect to other
demands against forfeited estates ; but it would not, in the
opinion of the commissioners, be at this time advisable to
assume the payraent of the debts of persons whose property
hath been sequestered, and where there hath been no other
forfeiture or confiscation.
" Claims relative to sequestration, and property taken by
orders of the Convention.
" These persons were voluntarily within the British Unes,
and their property was therefore liable to sequestration un
der the acts of the Convention. They produce a certificate
of their attachment to the American cause, signed by some
respectable characters. But being wiihin the resolutions of
the Convention, the commissioners cannot advise a recom
pense. " Gerard Bancker, Treasurer.
"Peter T. Curtenius, State Auditor
" Aaron Burr, Attorney-general."
On the 19th of January, 1791, Colonel Burr was ap
pointed a senator of the United Stales, in the place of Gen
eral Schuyler, whose term of service would expire on the
4th of March following. Until about this period he was but
little known as a partisan politician. After the organization
of the federal government under the new constitution, he
appears to have felt a great interest in its operations. In
the French revolution also, his feelings were erabarked ; and
he was araong the nuraber of those who conderaned the cold
and repulsive neutrality which characterized the adminis
tration of that day. That he was now about to launch into
the troubled ocean of politics was evident lo Mrs. Burr, and

328 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 35.
therefore, in a letler to him under date of the 23d of July,
1791, she says, " It is of serious consequence to you to es
tablish your health hefore you commence politician," &c.
In the autumn of 1791 Congress convened at PhUadel
phia, and Colonel Burr took his seat in the Senate of the
United Slates. It has often been remarked of him, and
truly, that no man was ever more cautious or more guarded
in his correspondence. A disposition, from the earliest pe
riod of his life, to write in cipher, has already been noticed.
' To this may be added an unwillingness, on all important
i questions, to commit hiraself in writing. As soon as he
entered the political arena, this characteristic was visible
even in his letters to Mrs. Burr. On the 14th of Novera
ber, 1791, he writes her — " To the subject of politics I can
at present make no reply. The mode of communication
would not permit, did no other reason oppose." And again,
December 21st, he says — "You wUl perhaps admire that I
cannot leave Congress as well as others. This, if a prob
lem, can only he solved at a personal interview."
At the comraenceraent of the revolutionary war, the State
of New- York held an extensive tract of wild and uniraproved
lands. Sundry laws were passed in the years 1779, 1780,
1784, 1785, and 1786, providing for thefr sale and settle
ment. A board was created, entitied " the Coraraissioners
of the Land Office." It was composed of the governor, the
secretary of state, the attorney-general, the treasurer, and
the auditor. The powers conferred b^' the several acts
above referred to having been found inadequate to the pro
posed object, the legislature, on the 22d of March, 1791,
have unlimited powers to the coraraissioners, authorizing
thera lo " dispose of any of the waste and unappropriated
lands in the state, in such parcels, and on such terms, and in
such manner as they shall judge most conducive to the in
terests of the state." In pursuance of this authority, the
commissioners sold during the year 1791, by estiraate, five
miUions five hundred and forty-two thousand one hundred

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 329
and seventy acres of waste land, for the sum of one million
and thirty thousand four hundred and thfrty-three dollars ;
leaving in the possession of the state, yet to be disposed
of, about two millions of acres. Araong the sales was one
to Alexander Macorab, for three millions six hundred and
thirty-five thousand two hundred acres. The magnitude of
this sale, and the price at which it was sold, created a gi-eat
excitement throughout the state, and at the session of the
legislature which commenced on the 4th of January, 1792,
the subject was brought before the assembly.
The price al which Mr. Macomb made his purchase was
eight pence per acre, payable in five annual instalments,
without interest, with permission to discount for prorapt
payraent at six per cent, per annura, which made the price
about equal to seven cents per acre cash. Colonel Burr, as
attorney-gener8,l, was a raember of the board. On the 9th
of AprU, 1792, the report of the commissioners being the
order of the day, the subject was taken up in the house.
Mr. Talbot, from Montgoraery county, moved sundry reso
lutions. They were intended as the foundation for an im
peachment of a part of the coraraissioners of the land office.
They assuraed lo contain a stateraent of facts, evidencing
on the part of the coraraissioners great indiscretion and
want of judgraent, if not corraption, in the sale of the public
lands, and they charged the commissioners with a wilful
violation of the law. These resoljitions, however, excepted \
Colonel Burr from any. participation in the maleconduct
complained of, inasmuch as the rainutes of the board proved
that he was not present at the raeetings (being absent on
official duty as attorney-general) when these contracts, so
ruinous, as they alleged, to the interests of the state, were
made : nor did it appear that he (Colonel Burr) was ever
consulted in relation lo them. These resolutions elicited a
healed debate ; in the progress of which aU the commis
sioners, except the attorney-general, were assailed with
great bitterness ; and charges of corraption by innuendo
Vol. I.— T t

330 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 35.
were uncereraoniously made. At a late hour the house
adjourned without decision untU the next day.
On the 10th of April, 1792, Mr. Melancton Smith raoved
the following resolution, with a preamble as a substitute : —
" Resolved, That this house do highly approve of the con
duct of the commissioners of the land office in the judicious
sales by them, as aforesaid, which have been productive of
the before mentioned beneficial effects."
This resolution was adopted by a vote of ays 35 —
noes 20.
Of Melancton Smith it is proper to remark here that he
was a plain, unsophisticated man. A purer patriot never
lived. Of the powers of his raind sorae opinion raay be
forraed by the following anecdote. Dr. Ledyard, who was
afterwards health officer of the port of New-York, was a
warm federalist. He was at Poughkeepsie while the feder
al constitution was under discussion in the state convention.
Sraith was an anti-federal raember of that body. Some
tirae after the adoption of the constitution, Ledyard slated
to a friend of his, that to Colonel Alexander Harailton had
been assigned, in a special raanner, the duty of defending
that portion of the constitution which related to the judi
ciary of the United Stales. That an outdoor conversation
between Colonel Hamilton and Mr. Smith took place in
relation to the judiciary, in the course of which Smith
urged some of his objections to the proposed system. In
the evening a federal caucus was held ; at that caucus Mr.
Hamilton referred to the conversation, and requested that
some gentleman raight be designated to aid in the discus
sion of this question. Robert R. Livingston, chancellor of
the slate, was accordingly naraed. Mr. Livingston was at
that lime a distinguished leader in the ranks of the federal
party. Whoever will lake the trouble to read the debates
in the Convention, in which will be found the reply of
Smith lo Livingston, will perceive in that reply the efforts
of a mighty raind. It was a high but merited complunent

Aged 35.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 331
to the talents of Melancton Smith, that such a man as
Colonel Hamilton should have wished aid in opposing him.
During the winter of 1791-92, being Colonel Burr's first
session in the Senate of the United States, he spent much
of his leisure time in the- slate department. For several
sessions after the organization ofthe federal governraent, all
the business of the Senate was transacted with closed doors.
At that period the correspondence of existing ministers was
kept secret, even from the senators. With every thing con
nected with the foreign affairs of the country. Colonel Burr
Was • exceedingly anxious lo make himself intiraately ac
quainted. He considered it necessary to the faithful and
useful perforraance of his duty as a senator. He obtained
perraission from Mr. Jefferson, then secretary of state, to
have access to the records of the department before the
hour for opening the office arrived. He employed one of
the messengers to make a fire at five o'clock in the morning,
and occasionally an intelligent and confidential clerk lo assist
him in searching for papers. Here he was engaged until
near ten o'clock every day. It was his constant practice
to have his breakfast sent lo hira. He continued this era-
plojrraenl the greater part of the session, raaking notes on,
or extracts from, the records of the department, until he was
interrupted Jiiz:^a peremptory order frora the president
(Washington) prohibitinghis farther ^amination- '-—--^
Wishing some iniormation that he had not obtained in
relation to a surrender of the western posts by the BrUish,
he addressed a note to the secretary of slate, asking per
mission lo-make that particular exaraination ; to which he
received the foUowing answer : —
" Thoraas Jefferson presents his respectful corapliraents to
Colonel Burr, and is sorry to inforra hira it has been con
cluded to be iraproper to coraraunicate the correspondence
of existing rainisters. He hopes this wiU, with Colonel
Burr, be his sufficient apology."
In April, 1792, there was an election for governor of tho

332 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 36
Stale of New- York. By sorae it was supposed that Gov
ernor Clinton would decline being again considered a can
didate. It was known that John Jay would be the candi
date of the federal party. At that period Colonel Burr had
warm personal friends in both parties, who were urging his
pretensions. Among the most ardent was Judge Yates.
In the latter part of Febraary, 1792, he authorized his
friends to state that he declined a noraination. He was
placed, however, in an unpleasant dilerama. The con
nexions, and many of the personal friends of Govemor
Clinton, were jealous of Colonel Burr's talents and growing
influence. Between the governor and hiraself there was
very little intercourse. On the other hand, the kindest
feelings towards hira were evinced by Chief-justice Jay,
who was a most amiable raan. It was his wish, therefore,
as far as practicable, consistent with his principles, to re
main neuter. He had never been an electioneering char
acter, and with the people he wished to leave the pending
question, without the exercise of any influence he might
be supposed to possess.
By the then existing laws of New- York, the baUols that
were taken in the several counties were, iraraediately after
the election, transmitted to the office of the secretary of
slate, and there kept until the second Tuesday in May,
when the board of canvassers were, by law, to convene
and canvass them. The election for governor was warmly
contested; the federal party supporting Judge Jay, the
anti-federal party George Clinton. When the canvassers
met, difficulties arose as to the legality of the retums from
certain counties, particularly of Otsego, Tioga, and Clinton.
The canvassers differing in opinion on the question whether
the ballots should be counted or destroyed, they agreed to
ask the advice of Rufus King and Colonel Burr. These
gentiemen conferred, and, Uke the canvassers, differed :
whereupon Mr. Burr proposed that they should decline
giving advice. To this Mr. King objected, and expressed

Aged 36.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 333
a determination to give his own opinion separate. This
rendered it necessary for Colonel Burr lo adopt a Uke pro
cedure. He thus became a partisan, and a most efficient
partisan, in that controversy.
Seven oi the canvassers determined lo reject and destroy
the ballots alleged to have been Ulegally relurned. To this
decision four objected. The ballots were accordingly de
stroyed, and George Clinton declared, to be duly elected
governor. The excitement produced was without a paral
lel in the state. The friends of Judge Jay contended that
he had been chosen by the people, but was cheated out of
his election by the corraption of the canvassers. Great
asperity and virulence were exhibited by both political par
ties on the occasion. . _^
Frora the moment that Colonel Burr was driven to inter-^'
fere in the controversy, he took upon himself, almost exclu
sively, the management of the whole case on the side of
the anti-federal party. His accustomed acumen, vigilance,
and zeal, were promptly put in requisition. FuU scope
was allowed for the display of those great legal talents for
which he was so pre-eminently distinguished. It has been
known to only a very few individuals that on Colonel Burr
rested nearly the whole labour ; and that nothing was done,
even by the canvassers, but under his advice and direction.
It has therefore been deemed proper lo insert here some
of the official detaUs of the case. They are worthy record,
as an interesting part of the political history of the State of
New-York.
" Statement of the case by the Canvassers, for the advice
of Rufus King and Aaron Burr.
" Otsego. — By the 26th section of the constitution of the
State of New-York, il is ordained that sheriffs and coroners
be annually appointed, and that no person shall be capable
of holding either of the said offices for more than four years
successively, nor the sheriff of holding any other office at

334 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 36.
the same time. By the ninth section of the act for regula
ting elections, it is enacted that one of the inspectors shall
deliver the ballots and poll-lists, sealed up, to the sheriff of
the county ; and, by the tenth section of the said act, it is
further enacted, that each and every sheriff of the respect
ive counties in this stale shall, upon receiving the said en
closures, directed to be deUvered to hira as aforesaid, with
out opening or inspecting the same, or any or either of
them, put the said enclosures, and every one of thera, into
one box, which shall be well closed and sealed up by hira,
under his hand and seal, with the name of his county writ
ten on the box, and be delivered by him into the office of
the secretary of this state, where the same shall be safely
kept by the secretary or his deputy. By the eleventh sec
tion of the said act, all questions arising on the canvass
and estimate of the voles, or on any of the proceedings
therein, shall be deterrained by a raajority of the raembers
of the joint comraittee attending ; and their judgraent shall
be final, and the oath of the canvassers requfres thera faith
fully, honestly, and impartiaUy to canvass and estimate
the votes coniained in the boxes delivered into the office of
the secretary of this state by the sheriffs of the several
counties. " On the 17th of February, 1791, Richard R. Sraith was
appointed sheriff of the county of Otsego, and his corarais
sion gives hira the custody of that county until the 18th of
February, 1792. On the 13th of January, 1792, he virrites
a letter to the Council of Appointraent, inforraing them that,
as the year for which he was appointed had nearly elapsed,
he should decline a reappointraent.
" On the 30th of March, 1792, the CouncU of Appoint
raent appointed Benjamin Gilbert to the office of sheriff of
the said county, with a coraraission, in the usual forra, lo
keep the county until the 17th of February next. His
coraraission was delivered to Stephen Van Rensselaer, Esq.,
on the 13th of April last, to be forwarded by him to the

Aged 36.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 335
said Benjamin Gilbert. By the affidavit of the said Benja
min Gilbert, herewith delivered, it appears that he qualified
into the office of sheriff on the llth day of May, 1792.
On the first Tuesday in April, 1792, Richard R. Smith
was elected supervisor of the town -of Otsego, in said
county, and on the first Tuesday in May look his seat at
the board of supervisors, and assisted in the appointment
of loan officers for the county of Otsego. By the affidavit
of Richard R. Smith, herewith delivered, il appears that
the ballots taken in the county of Otsego were delivered to
hira as sheriff, and by hira enclosed in a sufficient box, on
or about the 3d of May, which box he then delivered into
the hands of Leonard Goes, a person specially deputed by
him for the purpose of delivering the said box into the
hands of the secretary of this state, which was accordingly
done, as appears by information from the secretary.
" A small bundle of papers, enclosed and sealed, was
delivered to the secretary with the box, on which is writ
ten, ' The voles of the town of Cherry Valley, in the county
of Otsego. Richard R. Smith, Sheriff.' Several affidavits,
herewith delivered, state certain facts respecting this sep
arate bundle, said to be the voles of Cherry Valley.
" On this case arise the following questions : —
" 1 . Was Richard R. Smith the sheriff of the county of
Otsego when he received and forwarded the ballots by his
special deputy ?
" 2. if he was not sheriff, can the votes sent by him be
legally canvassed ?
" 3. Can the joint committee canvass the votes when
sent to them in two parcels, the one contained in a box,
and the other contained in a paper, or separate bundle ? Or,
" 4. Ought they to canvass those sealed in the box, and
reject the others ?
" Tioga. — Il appears that the sheriff of Tioga delivered
the box containing the ballots to B. Hovey, his special
deputy, who set out, was taken sick on his journey, and de-

336 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 36.
livered the box to H. Thompson, his clerk, who delivered
it into the secretary's office.
" Question. Ought the -votes of Tioga lo be canvassed ?
" Clinton. — It appears that the sheriff of Clinton deUv
ered the box containing the ballots to Theodorus Platt, Esq.,
who had no deputation, but who delivered thera into the
secretary's office, as appears by his affidavit.
" Question. Ought the votes of Clinton to be canvassed ?"
Mr. King's opinion to ihe Canvassers.
" Otsego. — It may be inferred, from the constitution and
laws of the state, that the office of sheriff is held during
the pleasure of the Council of Appointraent, subject to the
limitation coniained in the 26th section of the constitution.
The sheriff may therefore hold his office for four years,
unless within that period a successor shall have been ap
pointed, and shall have entered upon the execution of the
office. The term of four years from the appointment of
R. R. Sraith not having expfred, and B. Gilbert not having
entered upon the execution of the office before the receipt
and delivery of the voles by R. R. Smilh to his deputy, I
ara of opinion that R. R. Smith was then lawful sheriff of
Otsego. " This opinion is strengthened by what is understood to be
practice, namely, that the office of sheriff is frequently held
for raore than a year under one appointment.
"R. R. Sraith's giving notice to the Council of Appointment
of his disinclination to be reappointed, or his acting as su
pervisor, cannot, in my opinion, be deemed a resignation or
surrender of his office.
" Should doubts, however, be entertained whether R. R
Smith was lawfully sheriff when he received and delivered
the votes to his deputy, the case contains facts which in
another view of the subject are important. Il appears that
R. R. Smith was appointed sheriff of Otsego on the 17lh
of February, 1791, and afterwards entered upon the exe-

Aged 36.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 337
cution of his office : that no other person was in the execu
tion of or claimed the office after the date of his appoint
raent, and before the lime when he received and delivered
the votes of the xounty to his deputy ; that during that inter-
-Val R. R. Smith was sheriff, or the county was without a
sheriff; that R. R. Smith, during the election, and when he
received and delivered the voles to his deputy, continued in
the actual exercise of the shrievalty, and that under colour of
a regular appointment. Frora this stateraent it raay be in
ferred, that if R. R. Sraith, when he received and delivered
the votes to his deputy, was not de jure, he was de facto,
sheriff of Otsego.
" Though all the acts of an officer de facto raay not be
valid, and such of thera as are raerely voluntary and exclu
sively beneficial to himself are void ; yet such acts as tend
to the public utility, and such as he would be compellable
to perform, such as are essential to preserve the rights of
third persons, and without which they might be lost or
destroyed, when done by an officer de facto, are valid.
" I am therefore of opinion, that admitting R. R. Smith,
when he received and delivered the votes to his deputy, was
not de jure sheriff, yet that he was de facto sheriff; and that
his receiving and delivering the votes being acts done under
colour of authority, tending to the public utility, and neces
sary to the carrying into effect the rights of suffrage of the
citizens of that county, they are and ought to be deemed
valid ; and consequently the voles of that county raay law
fully be canvassedj
" 2d Question. The preceding answer to the first ques
tion renders an answer to the second imnecessary.
" 3d and 4th Questions. The sheriff is required to put
into one box every enclosure deUvered to him by an in
spector appointed for that purpose by the inspectors of any
town or district ; and for omitting to put any such enclosure
into the box, he is liable to prosecution ; but in case of such
omission, the votes put into the box, and seasonably deliv
Vol. L— Uu 15

338 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 36.
ered into the secretary's office, raay, notwithstanding such
omission, be lawfully canvassed ; and equally so whether
the oraitted enclosure be kept back or sent forward wilh the
box to the secretary's office. I am therefore of opinion that
the votes contained in the box raay lawfully be canvassed ;
that those contained in a separate packet, frora considera
tions explained in the depositions, and distinct frora the ob
jection of not being included within the box, cannot be law
fully canvassed.
" Clinton. — The deputy having no interest in the office
of sheriff, but being raerely the sheriffs servant, il does not
seera to be necessary that the evidence of his being em
ployed or raade a deputy should be a deed or an instruraent
in writing, though the latter would be proper ; yet a deputy
may be made by parole : I am therefore inclined to the
opinion that the votes of Clinton raay be canvassed.
"Tioga. — The sheriff is one who executes an office in
person or by deputy, so far at least as the office is minis
terial ; when a deputy is required of the sheriff conomine,
he raay execute it in person or by deputy ; but if the deputy
appoints a deputy, it raay be doubtful whether ordinarily the
acts of the last deputy are the acts of the sheriff. The pres
ent instance is an extreme case ; had the duty been capable
of being performed within the county, the sheriff or another
deputy could have perforraed. Here the deputy, being in
the execution of his duty, and without the county, is pre
vented by the act of God frora corapleting it ; the sheriff
could not appoint, and the deputy undertakes to appoint a
deputy to finish his duty, who accordingly does so. The
election law is intended to render effectual the constitutional
right of suffrage ; it should therefore be construed liberally,
and the means should be in subordination lo the end.
" In this case it may be reasonably doubted whether the
canvassers are obliged to reject the votes of Tioga.
" Rufus King."

Aged 36.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 339

Mr. Burr's opinion to the Canvassers.
" Otsego. — The duration of the office of sheriff in Eng
land having been liraited by statute to one year, great in
conveniences were experienced, as well by suiters as by the
pubUc. To reraove which it was thought necessary lo pass
an act of parliament. The statute of 12 Ed. IV., ch. 1,
recites al large these inconveniences, and authorizes the
sheriff to execute and return writs in the term of Sl. Michael,
before the delivery of a writ of discharge, notwithstanding
the expiration of the year. The authority given by this
statute being to execute only certain specified duties, the
remedy was not complete, and another statute* was soon
after passed, permitting sheriffs lo do every act pertaining
to the office, during the term of St. Michael and St. Hilary,
after the expiration of the year, if not sooner discharged.
The practice in England appears to have been conforra-
able to these statutes,! though the king did pretend to dis
pense with them by force of the royal prerogative ; and this
claira and exercise of a power in the crown lo dispense wilh
and control the operation of statutes, has been long and uni
versally conderaned as odious and unconstitutional ; yet the
forra of the coraraission is said still to be during pleasure.
" These considerations tend to show the principles of sev
eral opinions and adjudications, which are found in English
law-books, relative to the holding over of the office of sheriff.
" None of the statutes of England or Great Britain contin
ued to be laws of this slate after the first of May, 1778. tSo
that at present there remains no pretence for adopting any
other than the obvious meaning of the constitution, which
limits the duration of the office to one year, beyond which
the authority to hold cannot be derived frora the constitution,
* 17 Ed., ch. 7, more general.
t 2 Hawks., 5, 51, Irish oct. edit., 2 mod. 261 statute 1 Wm. and Mary, sess.
2, ch. 2. See also sec. 12 of the same statute.

340 memoirs op aaron burr. [Aged 36.
the appointment, or the coraraission. If inconveniences
arise, reraedies can be provided by law only, as has in sim
Uar cases been done in England, deciding on legal princi
pies ; therefore, the appointment and commission, and with
them the authority of Mr. Smith, must be deeraed to have
expired on the 18th of February.
" Yet there are instances of offices being exercised by
persons holding under an authority apparently good, but
which, on strict legal exaraination, proves defective ; whose
acts, nevertheless, are, with some limitations, considered as
valid. This authority is called colourable, and the officer in
such cases is said to be an officer de facto ; which intends
an interraediate slate between an exercise strictly lawful and
one without such colour of right. Mr. Sraith does not ap
pear to rae to have holden the office of sheriff on the 3d of
May under such colour or pretence of right. The terra of
his office had expired, and he had formaUy expressed his
determination not to accepi a reappointment ; after the ex-
pfralion of the year he accepted, and even two days before
the receipt of the ballots, openly exercised an office incora-
palible wilh that of sheriff ; and it is to be inferred, frora the
tenour of the affidavits, that he then knew of the appoint
raent of Mr. Gilbert. The assuraption of this authority by
Mr. Sraith does not even appear lo have been produced by
any urgent public necessity or imminent public inconve
nience. Mr. Gilbert was qualified in season to have dis
charged the duty, and, for aught that is shown, his attend
ance, if really desired, might have been procured still earlier/
" Upon all the circumstances of this case, I am of opin
ion, " 1 . That Mr. Smith was not sheriff of Otsego when he
received and forwarded the ballots.
" 2d. That the ballots delivered by the deputy of Mr.
Smith cannot be legally canvassed.
" The direction of the law is positive, that the sheriff shall
put all the enclosures into one box. How far his inattention

Aged 36.] memoirs of aaron burr. 341
or misconduct in this particular shall be deemed to vitiate
the ballots of a county, appears to be left to the judgment of
the canvassers. Were the baUots of this county subject lo
no other exception than that stated in the third and fourth
questions, I should incline to think it one of those cases in
which the discretion of the canvassers might be safely exer
cised, and that the ballots contained in the boxes raight be
legally canvassed ; those in the separate package do not ap
pear to be subject to such discretionary power; the law does
not permit thera to be estiraated. But the extent to which
this power raight be exercised in cases sirailar in kind, but
varying in degree, cannot be precisely defined. Instances
may doubtless be supposed, in which sound discretion would
require that the whole should be rejected.
" Clinton. — To the question relative to the ballots of
this county, it may suffice to say, that verbal and written dep
utation by a sheriff are, in law, considered as of equal va
lidity, particularly when it is lo perforra a single ministerial
act. " Tioga. — It is said that a deputy may make a deputy to
discharge certain duties merely ministerial ; but, considering
the iraportance of the trast in regard of the care of the bal
lots, and the extreme circumspection which is indicated in
the law relative to elections, I think that the ballots of this
county cannot, by any fiction or construction, be said to
have been delivered hy the sheriff; and am of opinion that
they ought not to be canvassed. " Aaron Burr."
The opinion of Rufus King in this case was concurred
in by Stephen Lush, T. V. W. Grahara, and Abraham Van
Vechten, of Albany; Richard Harrison, John Lawrence,
John Cozine, Cornelius J. Bogart, Robert Troup, James M.
Hughes, and Thomas Cooper, of New- York.
The opinion of Colonel Burr was sustained by Pierpont
Edwards of Connecticut, Jonathan D. Sergeant, of PhUa-

342 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 36.
delphia, Edmund Randolph, of Virginia, United Slates attor
ney-general, Zephaniah Swift, Moses Cleaveland, Asher Mil
ler, David Daggett, Nathaniel Smith, and Dudley Baldwin.
These opinions were procured by Colonel Burr, as appears
from the private correspondence on the subject.
FROM JONATHAN D. SERGEANT. Philadelphia, 4th May, 1792.
Dear Sir,
You will perceive by the date of the enclosed that il has
been ready some lime, but I have waited in hopes that I
should have the pleasure of sending forward Mr. Randolph's
opinion in corapany with raine. As he is not yet quite
ready, and I am going out of town, I send forward my ovra
singly. He is very solicitous to collect all possible informa
tion on the subject before he gives his opinion, and would
wiUingly excuse himself from the task, were it not, as he
says, that it would look like a want of that independence
and firmness which dispose a raan to meet any question,
however important or strongly contended.
His opinion hitherto has been conforraable to yours, and
I expect will continue so. When il is ready I will forward
it without the delay of sending it round to Dr. Edwards's
in the country. The doctor had spoken to rae sorae time
before your leiter came to me, so that I was nearly prepared
when I received yours.
Your obedient servant, Jonathan D. Sergeant.
On the 6th of November, 1792, the legislature met. On
the 13th, petitions, memorials, &c. were presented to the
House of Assembly, demanding an inquiry into the conduct
of the board appointed to canvass the voles given for gov
ernor, &c. al the preceding election, held in the month of
April. On the 21st the house, in comraittee of the whole,
took up the subject. Witnesses were exarained at the bar ;

Aged 36.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 343
various resolutions and modifications were offered and re
jected. The debate was cpntinued at intervals from the
21st of November, 1792, until the 18th of July, 1793. The
minority of the canvassers entered a protest against the
proceedings of the majority, which it is due to them to in
sert here.
" The Protest of Messrs. Jones, Roosevelt, and Gansevoort.
" We, the subscribers, raerabers of the joint committee
appointed to canvass and estimate the voles taken at the last
election in this state for governor, lieutenant-governor, and
senators, do dissent frora, and protest against, the deterrai
nation of the raajor part of said coramittee respecting the
votes taken at the said election in the county of Otsego.
" I. Because these voles having been given by the freehold
ers of Otsego, and the packages containing the same having
been received and transraitted in season to the secretary's
office by the person acting as sheriff of the county, the com
mittee have no right to reject them under the pretence of
judging of the legality, validity, operation, or extent of the
sheriff 's authority or commission ; these comraissions being
foreign to the duty of their appointraent, and capable of a
decision only in the ordinary courts of law.
" II. Because, if the committee were by law authorized to
examine and determine the legality and extent of the sheriff 's
authority and coraraission, we are of opinion that Richard
R. Sraith, al the tirae he received and transraitted the bal
lots, was the lawful sheriff of Otsego. By the constitution,
the- sheriff, whatever may be the form of his commission,
must hold his office during the pleasure of the Council of
Appointment ; and, by the law of the land, he raust continue
therein until another is appointed and takes upon hiraself the
office. Richard R. Smith, having been appointed on the
27th of February, 1791, and Benjamin Gilbert having been
appointed on the 30th of March, 1792, but not having qual
ified or taken upon hiraself the office until Richard R.

344 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 36.
SmithJiad received and forwarded the same, must be deemed
.Wejawful^shejiffjjfjhe^ounty. The iraiforra practice which"
has prevailed since the establishment of the constitution, pre
cludes all doubt respecting its true constmction on this
point. For although the commissions of the sheriffs are
for one year, they have nevertheless continued to exercise
the office untU others were appointed and entered upon the
execution thereof, which has often been long after the expi
ration of the year, and soraetiraes after the sarae person has
reraained in office more than four years successively. And
such sheriffs, soraetiraes after the expiration of their year,
at others after having held the office for four successive
years, have received and transmitted ballots for govemor,
lieutenant-governor, and senators, which ballots have on for
mer elections been received and canvassed ; and even upou
the present canvass, the coraraittee have canvassed the bal
lots taken in the counties of Kings, Orange, and Washing
ton, notwithstanding the year had expired for which the
sheriffs of these counties were commissioned, and no new
commissions had been issued. Hence the sheriffs of those
counties, in receiving and transmitting the ballots, must
have acted under their former comraissions, since a mere
appointment without a commission, and a compliance with
the requisites prescribed by law, could not, in our opinion,
give any authority as sheriff to the person so appointed.
" III. Because, if Richard R . Smith, at the tirae he re
ceived and forwarded the ballots, was not sheriff, the county
was without a sheriff, a position too raiseMavousto be es
tablished by a doubtful construction of law.
"IV. Because, if Richard R. Sraith was not of right
sheriff of the county at the time he received and forwarded
the baUots, he wasjthen-«heriff in fact of that county ; and
all the acts of such an officer whichTerid to the publicjUUi-
ty, oc_fo preserve and render effectual the rights of third
persons, are valid in law.
" V. Because, in aU doubtful cases, the comraittee ought.

Aged 36.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 345
in our opinion, to decide in favour of the votes given by the
citizens, lest by too nice and critical an exposition of the
law thej:ightsjoL.sufirage b^ jenderedjnu^atpry.
" We also dissent from, and protest against, the determi
nation of the raajor part of the said coramittee respecting the
votes taken at the said election in the county of Clinton :
" Because il appears that the sheriff of the said county
deputed a person by parole to deliver the box containing the
ballots of the said county into the secretary's office. Such
deputation we deem to be sufficient ; and as there is satis
factory evidence that the box was delivered in the same
stale in which it was received from the sheriff, the votes, in
our opinion, ought to be canvassed.
" We also dissent from, and protest against, the determi-,
nation of the raajor part of the said coramittee, by which
they declare that George Clinton was, by the greatest num
ber of votes taken at the last election for governor, lieuten
ant-governor, and senators, chosen govemor of this slate ;
and that Pierre Van Courtlandt was, by the greatest number
of votes at the said election, chosen lieulenant-govemor ;
and that John Livingston was, by the greatest number of
votes at the said election, in the eastern district of this stale,
chosen a senator in the said eastern district.
" Because it cannot be ascertained whether George Clin
ton was chosen governor, or Pierre Van Courtlandt lieuten
ant-governor of this state, by the greatest nuraber of votes
at the last election, without examining the ballots contained
in the boxes delivered into the secretary's office by the sherr
iffs of the counties of Otsego and CUnton — there being a
sufficient number of freeholders in these counties, with the
votes given in the other parts of the slate for John Jay as
governor and Stephen Van Rensselaer as lieutenant-gover
nor, to give them a majority of votes for those offices. Nor
can it be ascertamed whether John Livingston was chosen
a senator in the eastern district by the greatest number of
votes in fhat district, without examining the votes taken in
Vol, I — X X 15*

346 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 36.
the county of Clinton — ^there being a sufficient number of
freeholders in that county, with the votes given in other parts
of the district for Thoraas Jenkins as a senator, lo give him
a greater number of votes for a senator than the number
given for the said John Livingston.
" Samuel Jones,
" Isaac Roosevelt,
" Leonard Gansevoort."
Joshua Sands, another meraber of the board of canvas
sers, entered separately a protest, but substantially the sarae
as the preceding.
The raajority of the canvassers presented a document to
the legislature, in which they assigned their reasons for the
course they had pursued. That document was drawn by
Colonel Burr. The original draught, with his emendations,
has been preserved among his papers. On the raotion of a
raeraber, it was read in the house the 28lh day of Deceraber,
1792, and is entered at large on thefr journals as follows : —
" The reasons assigned hy the majority of the Canvassers
in vindication cf their conduct.
" The joint coraraittee appointed to canvass and estimate
the votes for govemor, lieutenant-governor, and senators at
the last election, having been constrained, by a sense of thefr
duty in the discharge of the trust reposed in thera, to reject
the ballots relumed frora the counties of Clinton, Otsego,
and Tioga ; and perceiving that attempts are made to rais-
represent as well the principles of their deterraination as the
facts on which they are founded, feel it incumbent on them
to stale the grounds of their decision.
" Clinton and Tioga. — A box, said to contain the bal
lots of the county of Clinton, was deposited in the secreta
ry's office by a Theodore Platt, without any deputation or
other authority, accompanied only by his own affidavit, that
he had received the said box from the sheriff of Clinton.

Aged 36.] memoirs of aaron burr. 347
Another box, said to contain the baUots of the county of
Tioga, was delivered by the sheriff of the county of Tioga
to his deputy, Benjarain Hovey, who, being detained by Ul
ness on the road, delivered the said box lo one Jaraes H.
Thompson, by whom it was deposited in the secretary's of
fice. " The joint committee, pursuant to the law, are swom lo
canvass the votes ' coniained in the boxes delivered into the
office of the secretary of the state by the sheriffs of the
several counties.' Hence arose a question, whether this
was not a personal trust, which could not be legally per
formed by deputy ? Upon this point we entertained differ
ent opinions ; but agreed that, if the discretion of the com
raittee was to be in any degree controlled by the directions
of the law, there appeared no roora to doubt of the illegality
of canvassing boxes which were not delivered by a sheriff
or the deputy of a sheriff. The ballots contained in these
boxes were therefore rejected; not, however, without sensi
ble regret, as no suspicion was entertained of the fairness
of those elections
"Otsego. — It appears that Richard R. Sraith, on the
17th of Febraary, 1791, was appointed sheriff of the county
of Otsego, to hold that office until the 18th of February,
1792; that a coraraission was issued agreeably to that ap
pointment; that on the 13lh of January, 1792, he wrote to
the governor and council that he should decline a reappoint
ment ; that on the 30th of Marqji, 1792, Benjamin Gilbert
was appointed sheriff of the said county ; that the corarais
sion to the said Benjarain Gilbert was, on the 13th of April,
1792, delivered to Stephen Van Rensselaer, one of the
CouncU of Appointraent, to be by hira forwarded ; that the
said coraraission was in the hands of WUUam Cooper, Esq.,
first judge of the said county, on or before the 3d of May ;
that the said Richard R. Smith, on the first Tuesday in
April, was elected supervisor of the town of Otsego, ac
cepted that office, and on the 1st day of May took his seat

348 memoirs of aaron burr. [Aged 36.
at the board of supervisors, assisted in the appointraent of
loan officers, and then declared that he was no longer sheriff
of the county, but that Benjarain Gilbert was appointed in
his place. It also appeared that Benjarain GUbert had no
notice of his said appointraent, or of the receiving of the
baUots by the said Richard R. Sraith, until the 9th day of_
May, and that he was sworn to the execution of the office
on the llth; that, on the 3d of May, the said Richard R.
Sraith put up the ballots of the said county in the store of
the said William Cooper, Esq., in whose hands the com
mission of Benjamin Gilbert then was ; that the box said to
contain the voles of the said county was delivered into the
secretary's office by Leonard Goes previous to the last
Tuesday in May, under a deputation from the said Richard
R. Smilh ; together with the said box, and al the sarae tirae,
the said Leonard Goes delivered a separate packet or en
closure, which, by an endorseraent thereon, purported to
contain ' the ballots received frora the town of Cherry Val
ley, in the county of Otsego.'
" The manner of the delivery of the said box and enclo
sure, and the authority of the said Leonard Goes, were re
ported to the committee by the secretary of the state.
" These votes were not canvassed for the following rea
sons : —
" 1 . The committee found themselves bound, by their
oath and by the dfrections of the law before raentioned, to
canvass only the votes contained in the boxes which may
have been delivered into the secretary's office by the sher
iffs of the several counties. It appeared to them absurd to
suppose this duty should be so expressly enjoined, and that
they should nevertheless be prohibited from inquiring wheth
er the boxes were or were not delivered by such officers ;
or that they should be restrained from ascertaining a fact,
without the knowledge of which it was irapossible that they
could discharge the duty with certainty to the public or with
confidence to theraselves. They could not persuade them-

Aged 36.] memoirs op aaron burr. 349
selves that they were, under that law and that oath, com
pelled to canvass and estimate votes, however fraudulently
obtained, which should be delivered into the secretary's of
fice by any person styling himself sheriff, though it should
at the sarae lirae be evident to them that he was not the
sheriff. If such was lo be their conduct, a provision in
tended as a security against irapositions would be an engine
to proraote them. They conceived, therefore, that the ob
jection lo an inquiry so iraportant, and in a case where the
question was raised and the inquiry iraposed upon thera by
the suggestions of the secretary, raust have arisen from
gross misrepresentation or wilful error.
" Upon investigating the right of the said Richard R.
Smith to exercise that office, the facts appeared as herein
before stated.
" 2. The constitution requires that sheriffs shall be annu
ally appointed ; which, to our apprehension, iraplies that nc
person shall exercise the office by virtue of any other than
an annual appointraent. And should it even be admitted
that the council may, at their pleasure, remove a sheriff
within the year, yet we do not see on what ground it can
be denied that the duration of the office is limited to one
year, unless anew appointraent should take place. It would
otherwise be trae that the council could indirectly, or by a
criminal omission, accomplish what is not within their direct
or legal authority. It will be readily admitted that an ap
pointraent and coraraission for three years would be void ;
and surely the pretence of one thus clairaing should be pre
ferred to a usurpation without even such appearance of
right, and against the known right of another. To assert,
therefore, that 'by the constitution the sheriff, whatever raay
be the forra of his coraraission, must hold his office during
the pleasure of the CouncU of Appointraent ; and that, by the
law of the land, he must continue therein until another is
appointed and has taken upon himself the office,' is an as
sertion accompanied with no proof or reason, and is repug-

350 memoirs of aaron burr. [Aged 36.
nant to the letter and spirit of the constitution, which is emi-
nentiy the law of the land. The practice which has pre
vailed since the revolution, as far as hath come to our
knowledge, does not warrant the position ; neither could
mere practice, if such had prevailed, justify the adoption of
a principle contrary to the obvious meaning of the constitu
tion. Upon the present occasion we have not canvassed the
votes of any county which were not returned by a sheriff
holding his office under an appointraent unexpired. The
sheriffs of Kings, Orange, and Washington had all been re
appointed within the present year, which satisfied the words
of the constitution, and was the known and avowed reason
which influenced the comraittee to estiraate the ballots of
those counties. The doctrine conceming the constitutional
pleasure of the council in the appointment of the office of
sheriffs had not then been invented,
" 3. But even admitting the visionary idea that the office
of sheriff {whose duration is limited hy the constitution)
can nevertheless be holden during the pleasure of the
Council of Appointment, yet that appears to have been de
terrained by the letter of the appointraent and commission,
by the appointment of Benjarain Gilbert, by the declaration
of Richard R. Smith, and by his acceptance and exercise
of another office, which is, by the constitutionHl£gIai£d-10
be mcpKipaiible. with xYie office of sheriff.
" It was evident, therefore, that Richard R. Smith had
no authority by appointment, by coraraission, by the con
stitution, or by any law, to hold or exercise the office of
sheriff on the third of May.
" 4. As Richard R. Smith was not legally or constitu
tionally sheriff on the third of May, neither, under the cir
curastances of the case, can he be said to have been sheriff
in fact, so as to render his acts valid in contemplation of
law: the assuraption of power by Mr. Sraith appears lo
have been warranted by no pretence or colour of right.
The lime Umited for the duration of his office had expired

Aged 36.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 351
by the express tenure of his coraraission and appointment,
and he had forraally declared his determination not to ac
cept a reappointment. He had, two days previous to his
receiving the baUots, openly exercised an office incompatible
with that of sheriff; then declared that he had resigned the
office of sheriff, and that Benjamin GUbert was appointed
in his place ; and by an affidavit which was produced to
the coraraittee, it appeared that, upon the day upon which
he had pul up the ballots in the house of the said WiUiara
Cooper, he, the said Richard R. Smith, declared that he
bad resigned the office of sheriff. The business might
with equal care and certainly have been executed by Ben
jamin Gilbert. The single act of receiving ballots could
of itself continue no man a sheriff — least of all a man dis
avowing that office, and then in the exercise of another. It
was foreign to the duty of the c6mmittee to provide against
evils which raay possibly arise from casual vacancies in
the office of sheriff by death and otherwise. Vacancies
wiU sometimes unavoidably happen, without further legis
lative provision.
" There is not, therefore, in our opinion, any application
to the subject, or force in the objection, ' that if Richard R.
Smith was not sheriff, the county was without a sheriff;'
neither is the posiiion , true in fact, for it appears that the
county was not then without a sheriff. At the time the bal
lots were received, it was well known that Benjarain Gil
bert was appointed sheriff, and that his coraraission was in
the hands of William Cooper, in whose store Richard R.
StnUfFjmfup the ballots. Il is also to be fairly inferred
that, had prgper- measures- been taken to give- notice to Mr.
Gilbert, he would forthwith have quaUfied and undertaken
the execution of the office. It cannot, therefore, consistent
with truth or candour, be asserted that there was the remo
test probability that ' mischiefs' could in any paraUel case
ensue from the principles adopted by the coraraittee.
" It did not seem possible, therefore, by any principle of

352 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 36.
law, by any latitude of constraclion, to canvass and esti
raate the baUots contained in the box thus circurastanced.
" But, had the question been doubtful, it was attended
by other circumstances, which would have determined the
coraraittee against canvassing those baUots.
" 5. Because the notice of the appointraent of Benjarain
Gilbert was received by Richard R. Sraith on or before
the first of May, and his commission was received by WiU
iam Cooper on or before the third of May. Mr. Gilbert
might therefore have been notified, quaUfied, and execu
ted the duty. He did actually qualify on the eleventh,
which gave araple time to have forwarded the ballots be
fore the last Tuesday in May. These facts, with other
suggestions of unfair practices, rendered the jGoadugt of the
Otsego election justly liable to, suspicion ; and the cora
mittee were constrained to conclude that the usurpation of
authority by Richard R. Smith was wanton and unneces
sary, and proceeded from no raotive connected with the pres
ervation of the rights of the people or the freedom and
purity of elections.
" 6. Because, having in several instances, by unanimous
vote, rejected ballots of whole towns, free from any suspi
cion of unfairness, by reason of a defect in form only of
the return, the committee conceived theraselves the raore
strongly bound lo reject ballots where the defect was sub
stantial, and the conduct at least questionable ; especially
as the law regards the custody of enclosures containing the
ballots as a trust of high iraportance, and conteraplates but
three persons in whose hands they are to be confided until
they corae lo the possession of the canvassers, to wit, the
inspector, the sheriff, and the secretary ; aU officers of
great responsibiUty and confidence.
" 7. Because the return, upon the face of it, appeared to
be iUegal. The law requires the sheriff, ' upon receiving
the said enclosure, directed to be delivered to hun as afore
said, without opening or inspecting the same, or any or

Aged 36.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 353
either of them, to put the said enclosures, and every one of
them, into one box, which shall be well closed, &c., and be
delivered by him, without opening the same, or the enclo
sures therein contained, into the office of the secretary of
this stale before the last Tuesday in May in every year.'
" By recurring lo the preceding state of facts it will be
evident that this direction of the law had been disregarded.
If irregularities- of this kind should be permitted and coun
tenanced, it would be in the power of the sheriff, by exclu
ding a part of the voles, to confer a majority on any candi
date;- in counties where there were divisions of interests.
Affidavits were indeed produced tending to show that there
had been, in that town, disputes respecting the election of
town officers ; that two enclosures, purporting to contain thc
voles of the town, were delivered to Mr. Smith, and that he
had put into the box that enclosure which contained the
votes taken by the persons whom he judged Xo be the legal
inspectors : a matter proper to have been submitted to the
opinion of the coraraittee.
" The coraraittee have considered this subject with de
liberate attention, and in every light in which it could be
placed ; and whether they regarded the channels of convey
ance, the raode of the return, or the general principles which
ought to govern their decisions touching the freedom of
elections and security against frauds, they found undeniable
reasons which compelled them to reject the votes.
" David Gelston,
"Thomas Tillotson
" Daniel Graham,
" Melancton Smith,
" David M'Carty,
" P. V. Courtlandt, jun.,
"Jonathan N. Havens."
On the 18th of January, 1793, the House of Asserably passed
the following resolutions on the subject. "Thereupon, i?e=.
Vol. L— Yy

354 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 36
solved. That the raode of prosecuting any joint committee of
the Senate and Asserably, appointed for the purpose of can
vassing and estiraating the votes laken in this state for gover
nor, lieutenant-governor, and senators, and the. penalties to
be inflicted on such coramittee, or any of them, for any im
proper conduct in the execution of the trust reposed in them
by law, are clearly pointed out in the twentieth and twenty-
first sections of the act for regulating elections, passed the
13th day of February, one thousand seven hundred and
eighty-seven ; and that, therefore, any person or persons who
raay suppose that any such joint coraraittee, or any of thera
have conducted theraselves iraproperly in the execution of
the trust reposed in them, may prosecute the sarae to effect
in the ordinary course of law.
" Resolved, That notwithstanding this provision in the act
for regulating elections, this house hath gone into an in
quiry with respect to the conduct of the late comraittee ap
pointed to canvass and estiraate the votes for govemor,
lieutenant-governor, and senators, taken at the last general
election held in this state, to the intent that satisfaction raay
be given those citizens of the slate who have been dissatis
fied with the decision of the raajor part of the said coramit
tee, with respect to the votes taken in the counties of Otse
go, Tioga, and Clinton.
" Resolved, That after a full and fair examination into the
conduct of the major part of the said canvassing coraraittee,
it does not appear to this house that the said raajor part
of the coraraittee, to wit : David Gelston, Thomas Tillotson,
Daniel Graham, Melancton Sraith, David M'Carty, Pierre
Van Courtlandt, junior, and Jonathan N. Havens, have been
guilty of any raal or corrupt conduct in the execution of the
trust reposed in thera by law.
" And whereas, by the eleventh section of the act for reg
ulating elections, it is enacted that all questions which shall
arise upon any canvass and estimate, or upon any of the
proceedings therein, shall be determined according to the

Aged 36.] memoirs or aaron burr. 355
opinion of the major part of the said canvassing comraittee,
and that their judgment and deterraination shall in all cases
be binding and conclusive ; therefore,
" Resolved, As the sense of this house, that the legisla
ture cannot annul or raake vpid any of the deterrainations of
the said committee."
The question was laken on the preceding resolutions to
gether, by yeas and nays, and passed in the affirraalive.
Ays 35. Nays 22.
Araong the individuals for whom Colonel Burr entertained
a high degree of respect, was Jacob De Lamater, Esq., of
Marbletown. Between these gentiemen, for several years,
a friendly, and, in some instances, a confidential correspond
ence existed. Mr. De Lamater was a federalist, but per
sonally attached to Colonel Burr. In 1792 he was among
those who wished him to become a candidate for the office
of governor. After the death of De Laraater, the leiters
addressed lo hira by Colonel Burr were returned. They
were written under the sacred seal of friendship; but they
contain not a sentence, not a word, that is not alike honour
able lo his head and his heart. One is selected and here
published as explanatory of his feelings and his conduct in
the contested election (which so rauch agitated the State of
New-York) between George Clinton and John Jay. It re
quires no corament. TO MR. de lamater. New-York, 15th June, 1792.
My dear Sir,
You will, before this can reach you, have heard of the
event of the late election. Some questions having arisen
among the canvassers respecting the retums from Clinton,
Otsego, and Tioga, they requested the advice of Mr. King
and myself. We conferred, and, unfortunately, differed ; par
ticularly as to the questions upon the Otsego return. I
therefore proposed that we should decUne giving any opin-

356 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 36.
ion, being for my own part rauch averse to interfere in the
business. Mr. King, however, determined to give his sep
arate opinion, from what motives you may judge. This laid
rae under the necessity of giving raine also, which I did. If
I can procure copies of both opinions, and of the protest of
the rainority, and the reasons assigned by the raajority of
the canvassers, I wiU send thera herewith. They will ena
ble you to form a competent judgment of the law question,
and of the fairness of the Otsego return.
I do not see how any unbiased man can doubt, but still I
do not pretend to control the opinion of others, much less
to take offence at any man for differing frora rae. The
reasons coniained in ray opinion, and assigned by the raa
jority of the canvassers, have never been answered except
by abuse. I can, in a personal interview, inform you of
some circumstances relative to the opinions which have
been procured in favour of the Otsego votes.
I have heard -with much pride and pleasure of the warm
and disinterested manner in which I was espoused by sorae
respectable characters in your county. I shall never fail to
recollect it wilh sensibility and gratitude. It would there
fore give me real pain to believe that any part of my conduct
had tended to thwart their wishes. If it has had any such
effect, it should at least be reraerabered that I did not seek
to gratify any wish or interest of ray own. I took no part
in the election. I never gave lo any person the raost dis
tant intimation that I supposed you engaged lo support
Mr. Clinton, or to take any other part than that which your
inclinations and judgment should direct. I felt no disposi
tion to influence your conduct on that occasion. Had I been
so inclined, I have no doubt but I could, in various parts of
the slate, have essentially injured Mr. Jay's interest ; but I
raade no atterapt of the kind. Yet I shall never yield up
the right of expressing ray opinions. I have never exacted
that tribute from another.
Upon the late occasion, indeed,[ I earnestly wished and

Aged 36.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 357
sought to be relieved from the necessity of giving any opin
ion, particularly from a knowledge that it would be disa
greeable lo you and a few others whom I respect and
wish always to gratify. But the conduct of Mr. King left
me no alternative. I was obliged to give an opinion, and I
have not yet leamed to give any other than which ray judg
ment directs.
It would, indeed, be the extreme of weakness in me lo
e.xpect friendship from Mr. Clinton. I have too many rea
sons to believe that he regards me with jealousy and ma
levolence. StiU, this alone ought not to have induced rae to
refuse my. advice to the canvassers. Some pretend, indeed,
but none can believe, that I am prejudiced in his favour. I
have not even seen or spoken lo hira since January last.
I wish to raerit the flattering things you say of ray talents ;
but your expressions of esteem and regard are still raore flat
tering, and these, I ara sure, I shall never fail to merit, if
the WEirmest friendship and unalterable attachraent can give
me a claira.
Will you be abroad any, and what part of the suramer ?
I ask, because I propose to make you a visit on my way to,
or retum from, Albany, and wish to be certain of finding you
at home. No political changes can ever diminish the pleas
ure with which I subscribe myself
Your affectionate friend, A. Burr.
The following letler is evidence of Colonel Burr's pro
pensity to correspond in cipher with his most intiraate
friends, even on uniraportant topics. Hundreds cf the same
character might be given.

358 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 36.

TO JACOB DE LAMATER. New- York, October 30th, 1792
Dear Sir,
Your letter by Mr. Addison was particularly kind, after
my long supposed silence. We may raake use of hoth keys
or ciphers, and if some of the persons or things are desig
nated by different characters, no inconvenience will arise ; if
there should, we will correct il.
V is to be the candidate, as ray former letter wUl have
told you. He has the wishes of 9 for his success, for rea
sons which wUl be obvious to you. Do you think that 8
would be induced frora any raotive to vote for him ?
Yours affectionately,
A. Burr.

CHAPTER XVII.
/' On the 2d of October, 1792, Govemor Clinton nominated
Colonel Burr to the Council of Appointment as Judge ofthe
Supreme Court of the state, which nomination was immedi
ately confirmed. Thus, within the short space of about
three years, he was appointed by the democratic party to
the several iraportant stations of Attorney-General, Senator
of the United Stales, and Judge of the Suprerae Court.
The last appointraent was made without consulting Mr.
Burr. As soon as he was notified of the fact, he inforraed
the governor of his non-acceptance ; yet so anxious was his
excellency, and so strong were his hopes that Colonel Burr
might be induced to withdraw his resignation, that he
refused to lay it before the council untU the legislature, on
the 7lh of December, adopted the following resolution —
" Whereas it appears to the legislature, by the records of

Aged 36.] memoirs of aaron burr. 359
the CouncU of Appointment, that Aaron Burr, Esq., one of
the senators for this slate in the Senate of the United States,
was, on the 2d day of October last, appointed one of the
puisne justices of the Supreme Court of Judicature of this
slate : Thereupon,
" Resolved (if the honourable the Senate concur herein).
That his excellency the governor be and hereby is requested
to inforra the legislature whether the said Aaron Burr hath
accepted or refused the said office."
On the 24th of October, 1791, Congress convened, and
Colonel Burr took his seat in the Senate of the United
States. In those days it was the practice of the president,
accorapanied by the heads of departraents, to proceed to
Congress Hall for the purpose of raeeting the two branches
of the national legislature, and opening the session wilh a
speech, to which a response was made by each body separ
ately. On the 25lh the president made his annual com
munication ; whereupon the Senate " Ordered, That Messrs.
Burr, Cabot, and Johnston be a comraittee to prepare and re
port the draught of an address to the President of the United
States, in answer to his speech, delivered this day to bolh
houses of Congress in the Senate Chamber."
The next day Colonel Burr, as chairman of the coramit
tee, draughted and reported an answer, which was adopted by
the Senate without alteration or araendment : an occurrence,
it is believed, that happened in only two other instances
during the period that speeches were delivered by the ex
ecutive. After the election of Mr. Jefferson the system of
sending messages was substituted.
The journals of the Senate afford ample evidence that
Colonel Burr was an industrious and efficient raember of
that body. During the first session of his term of service^
he was placed on numerous coraraittees, sorae of thera im
portant, and generally as chairman. His business habits
soon became evident, and were called into operation. His
character for firraness was well established before he took

360 memoirs of aaron burr. [Aged 36.
his seat in the Senate ; but on the 9th of January, 1794, it
' was displayed with effect. In consequence of a difference
between the two houses, a bill to increase the standing army
was lost.
Mr. King, of New-York, by consent, introduced a new
bill ; it was entitled " An act for the more effectual protec
tion of the southwestern frontier settlers." Unsuccessful
efforts were made by Colonel Burr and others to amend it,
by striking out some of its raost odious features ; but there
was a decided majority, as it was known to be an adminis
tration measure, determined on carrying it through. The
bill was ordered to be engrossed for a third reading, and
the question on its passage was to be taken on the last day
of the session. By the rules of the Senate, the question
could not be put if any member objected. Colonel Burr
objected, and the bill was thus defeated.
Notwithstanding his pubhc engagements. Colonel Burr's
raind was constantly eraployed with the education of his
daughter. Mrs. Burr's health was gradually declining,
insorauch that she was unable, at tiraes, to attend to her
doraestic concerns. This to him was a source of unceas
ing care and apprehension. His letlers to his daughter are
numerous. They are frequently playful, always interesting, '
displaying the solicitude of an affectionate father anxious
for the improvement of his child.
TO MRS. BURR. Philadelphia, 18th January, 1793.
By the enclosed to Mr. Gurney,* I have requested him
to write me a letter respecting the health of the family, and
Theo.'s improvement. Request him to enclose, on a sep
arate sheet, sorae columns of figures, pounds, shiUings, and
pence. I shall show the letter and enclosure as a speci
men of his talents to some persons to whom I wish to
* Theodosia's preceptor.

Aged 37.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 361
recommend him. Beg him to use no uncommon word or
expression. He will pardon this piece of advice when he
recollects that I know so much belter than he does what
will suit the persons to whom it is to be shown. If he
should offer his letter for your perusal before he sends it,
remark freely ; it will be a kindness of which no one is so
capable. Should this come to hand after he has given his lesson
on Saturday, send him his letter, and request him to call
On you, if you should be able to bear five minutes conver
sation with hiija.
I -wrote you yesterday, and have nothing to add respect
ing myself ; and only a repetition of my prayers for you,
with my most affectionate and anxious wishes.
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Philadelphia, Sth Febraary, 1793.
You may recollect that I left a meraorandum of what
Theo. was to learn. I hope it has been strictly attended
to. Desire Gurney not to attempt to teach her any thing
about the " concords." I will show him how I choose that
should be done when I retum, which, I thank God, is but
three weeks distant.
It is eight days since I left home, and I have not a word
from any one of the faraily, nor even about any one of
thera. I have been out but once, half an hour at Mrs. P.'s,
a concert ; but I call often at Mrs. L.'s. I ara raore and
more struck with the native good sense of one of that fam
ily, and more and more disgusted with the manner in which
il is obscured and perverted : cursed effects of fashionable
education ! of which both sexes are the advocates, and
yours eminently the victims. If I could foresee that Theo.
would become a mere fashionable woman, with all the
attendant frivolity and vacuity of mind, adorned wilh what
ever grace and allurement, I would earnestly pray God to
Vol. L— Zz 16

362 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 37.
take her forthwith hence. But I yet hope, by her, to con
vince the world what neither sex appear to believe — that
woraen have souls ! Most affectionately yours,
A. Burr.

To MRS. BURR.
Philadelphia, 15th Febraary, 1793.
I received with joy and astonishment, on entering the
Senate this minute, your two elegant and affectionate let
lers. The raail closes in a few rainutes, and will scarce
allow me to acknowledge your goodness. The roads and
ferries have been for sorae days alraost irapassable, so that
till now no post has arrived since Monday.
It was * knowledge of your raind which first inspired me
with a respect for that of your sex, and wilh sorae regret, I
confess, that the ideas which you have often heard me ex
press in favour of female intellectual powers are founded
on what I have iraagined, more than what I have seen, ex
cept in you. I have endeavoured to trace the causes of this
rare display of genius in women, and find thera in the errors
of education, of prejudice, and of habit. I adrait that raen
are equally, nay raore, much raore lo blame than women.
Boys and girls are generally educated rauch in the same
way till they are eight or nine years of age, and it is admit
ted that girls raake at least equal progress with the boys ;
generally, indeed, they raake better. Why, then, has it
never been thought worth the attempt to discover, by fair
experiraent, the particular age at which the raale superiority
becoraes so evident ? But this is not in answer to your let
ter; neither is it possible now to answer it. Some parts
of il I shall never answer. Your allusions to departed an
gels I think in bad taste.
I do not like Theo.'s indolence, or the apologies which
are made for il. Have my directions been pursued with
regard to her Latin and geography ?

Aged 37.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 363
Your plan and embellishment of my mode of life are
fanciful, are flattering, and inviting. We will endeavour to
realize some of it. - Pray continue to vrrite, if you can do
it with impunity. I bless Sfr J., who, with the assistance
of Heaven, has thus far restored you.
In the course of this scrawl I have been several limes
called to vole, which must apologize to you for its incohe
rence. Adieu. A. Burr.
To MRS. burr. Philadelphia, 16th February, 179J.
A line of recollection will, I am sure, be more acceptable
than silence. I consider myself as largely in your debt,
and shall of necessity remain so.
You have heard me speak of a Miss Woolstonecraft, who
has written soraething on the French revolution ; she has
also written a book entitled " Vindication of the rights of
Woman." I had heard it spoken of with a coldness little
calculated to excite attention ; but as I read with avidity and
prepossession every thing written by a lady, I made haste
to procure it, and spent the last night, almost the whole of
it, in reading it. Be assured that your sex has in her an
able advocate. It is, in my opinion, a work of genius. She
has successfully adopted the style of Rousseau's EmUius ;
and her comment on that work, especially what relates to
female education, contains raore good sense than all the
other criticisras upon hira which I have seen pul together.
I promise myself much pleasure in reading it to you.
Is it owing to ignorance or prejudice that I have not yet
met a single person who had discovered or would aUow the
merit of this work?
Three mails are in arrear ; that of Tuesday is the last
which has arrived. I am impatient to know how writing
agrees with you. Pray let me hear, from day to day, the
progress of your cure. Most affectionately yours,
A. Burr,

864 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. t-A-g6<^ 37.

TO MRS. BURR. Philadelphia, 18th February, 1793.
Just what I apprehended, I find, has taken place. Three
sheets were too rauch for a first attempt. It will, I fear,
discourage you, if not disable you from more moderate ex
periraents. Yet I will hope to receive by this day's raail at
least one Une, announcing your progressive recovery, under
your own hand.
Be assured that, after what you have written, I shaU not
send for Gurney, Deliver hira the enclosed. I hope it
may animate his attention ; and tell him, if you think proper,
that I shall be much dissatisfied if Theo.'s progress in Latin
be not very considerable at my return. Geography has, I
hope, been abandoned, for he has no talent at teaching it.
The close of a session being always crowded with busi
ness, keeps rae much engaged. You raust expect short let
ters — mere notes. Adieu. A. Burr.
TO HIS DAUGHTER THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 20th Febraary, 1793.
At length, my dear Theo., I have received your letter of
the 20th of January — -written, you see, a month ago. But
I observe that it was not pul into the postoffice until the
day before yesterday. I suppose Frederick or Bartow had
carelessly put it in some place where il had lain forgotten.
It would indeed have been a pity that such a letler should
have been lost. There is something in the style and ar
rangement of the words which would have done honour to a
girl of sixteen.
All three of the Miss A.s will visit New-York next sum
mer, and pass sorae weeks there. I hope to be at horae in
ten or twelve days from this time. Let rae receive one or
two more leiters frora you, even if you are obliged to neg
lect a lesson to find tirae to write them.

Aged 37.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 365
Alexis* often bids me to send you some polite and re
spectful message on his part, which I have heretofore omit
ted. He is a faithfiil, good boy. Upon our retum home he
hopes you will leach hira to read.
I am, my dear Theo.,
Your affectionate papa,
A. Burr.
TO HIS DAUGHTER THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 24th February, 1793.
My dear Theo.,
In looking over a list made yesterday (and now before
me), of letters of consequence to be answered iraraediately,
I find the narae of T. B. Burr. At the tirae I made the
memorandum I did not advert to the compliment I paid you
by putting your name in a list with some of the raost erai
nent persons in the United Stales. So true is it that your
letters are really of consequence to me. I now allude to
that of the 19th instant, covering a fable and riddle. If the
whole performance was your own, which I am inclined to
hope and believe, it indicates an iraprovement in style, in
knowledge of the French, and in your handwriting. I have
therefore not only read it several limes, but shown it to sev
eral persons with pride and pleasure.
I confess myself unable to solve your riddle, unless the
teeth or the alphabet (generally supposed lo be twenty-four
in each) will give the solution. But I have not yet had an
opportunity to consult Miss P. A. To-morrow I shall call
on her for the purpose, and will not fail to inform you of her
conjectures on the subject. Your affectionate papa,
A. Burr.
' A coloured boy.

366 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 37.

TO HIS DAUGHTER THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 16th December, 1793.
I have a thousand questions to ask, my dear Theo., but
nothing lo coraraunicate ; and thus I fear it will be through
out the winter, for ray time is consumed in the dull uniform
ity of study and attendance in Senate ; but every hour of
yaur day is interesting to me. I would give, what would I
not give to see or know even your mos-t trifiing actions and
amusements ? This, however, is raore than I can ask or
expect. But I do expect wilh impatience your journal.
Ten minutes every evening I demand ; if you should choose
to make it twenty, I shall be the better pleased. You are
to note the occurrences of the day as concisely as you can ;
and, at your pleasure, to add any short reflections or re
marks that may arise. On the other leaf I give you a sam
ple of the manner of your journal for one day. ISth December.
I began tbis letter at the date which you see, being Mon
day last — ^was interrupted, and the mail closed. Yesterday
I was confined with a severe headache, owing, I believe, to
a change from an active to a sedentary Ufe without a cor
responding change in diet.
A week and more has elapsed since I left home, and not
a Une from you ; not even the Sunday letter. Observe, that
the journal is to be sent lo me enclosed in a letter every
Monday moming. Plan of the Journal. 16th December, 1793.
Learned 230 lines, which finished Horace. Heigh-ho for
Terence and the Greek grammar to-raorrow.
Practised two hours less thirty-five minutes, which I
begged off.
Hewlett (dancing-master) did not corae.

Aged 37.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 367
Began Gibbon last evening. I find he requires as much
Study and attention as Horace ; so I shall not rank the read
ing of him among arauseraents.
Skated an hour ; fell twenty tiraes, and find the advantage
of a hard head and
Ma better — dined with us at table, and is still sitting up
and free frora pain. Your affectionate papa,
A. Burr.
TO MRS. BURR.
Philadelphia, 2Uh December, 1793.
Since being at this place I have had several conversations
wilh Dr. Rush respecting your distressing illness, and I have
reason to believe that he has given the subject some reflec
tion. He has this evening called on me, and given me as
his advice tKat^ypu should take hemlock. He says that, in
the way in which it is usually prepared, you should com
mence with a dose of one tenth of a grain, and increase as
you may find you can bear il ; that it has the narcotic pow
ers of opium, superadded to other qualities. When the dose
is too great, it may be discovered by a vertigo or giddiness ;
and that he has known it to work wonderful cures. I was
the raore pleased with this advice, as I had not told him that
you had been in the use of this medicine ; the concurrence
of his opinion gives rae great faith in it. God grant that it
may restore your health, and lo your affectionate
A. Burr.
TO HIS DAUGHTER THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 25th December, 1793.
The letter, my dear Theo., which (I have no doubt) you
wrote me last Sunday, has not yet come to hand. Am I to
blame Strong ? or the postraaster ? or whom ?
When you have finished a letter, read it carefuUy over, and
correct all the errors you can discover. In your last there

368 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Agcd 37.
were some which could not, upon an attentive perasal, have
escaped your notice, as you shall see when we meet.
I have asked you a great raany questions, to which I have
as yet no answers. When you sit down to write to rae, or
-when you set about it, be it sitting or standing, perase al
my letlers, and leave nothing unanswered. Adieu. A. Burr.

TO HIS DAUGHTER THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 31st Decemlrer, 1793.
I received your letter and journal yesterday in the Senate
Chamber, just before the closing of the maU, so that I had
only time to acknowledge it by a hasty line. You see I
never let your letters remain a day unanswered, in which
I wish you would imitate rae. Your last had no date ; from
the last date in the journal, and your writing about Christ
mas holydays as yet at some distance, I suppose you wrote
about Sunday the 22d. Nine days ago! I beg you again
to read over all my letters, and to let me see by your answers
that you attend to them. ~1 suspect your last journal was
not written from day lo day ; but all on one, or at most two
days, frora raeraory. How is this ? Ten or fifteen rainutes
every evening would not be an unreasonable sacrifice from
you to me. If you took the Christraas holydays, I assent :
if you did not, we cannot recall the lime. This is all the
answer which that part of your letter now admits of.
It is said that sorae few yet die of the yellow fever which
lately raged here ; but the disorder does not appear to be, at
present, in any degree contagious ; what may be the case
upon the return of warm weather, is a subject of anxious con
jecture and apprehension. It is probable that the session of
Congress will continue into the summer.
Give a place to your marama's health in your journal.
Orait the forraal conclusion of your letters, and write your
name in a larger hand. I am just going to Senate, where I
hope to meet a letter from you, with a continuation of your

Aged 37.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 369
journal down to the 29th inclusive, which, if it gives a good
account of you and mamma, will gladden the heart of
A Burr.

TO HIS DAUGHTER THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 31st December, 1793.
This day's mail has brought me noihing from you. I
have but two letters in three, almost four weeks, and the
journal is ten days in arrear. What — can neither affection
nor civility induce you to devote to rae the sraall portion of
time which I have required ? Are authority and compulsion
then the only engines by which you can be moved ? For
shame, Theo. ! Do not give me reason to think so ill of
you. I wrote you this morning, and have noihing to add but
the repetition of my warmest affection.
A. Burr.
TO HIS DAUGHTER THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 4th January, 1794.
At the moment of closing the mail yesterday, I received
your letler enclosing the pills. I cannot refer lo il by date,
as it has none. Tell me truly, did you write it without as
sistance ? Is the language and spelling your own ? If so,
il does you much honour. The subject of it obliged me lo
show il to Dr. Rush, which I did wilh great pride. He in
quired your age half a dozen times, and paid some handsome
compliments to the handwriting, the style, and the correct
ness ofyour letter.
The account of your marama's health distresses rae ex
treraely. If she does not get belter soon, I will quit Con
gress altogether and go home. Doctor Rush says that the
pills contain two grains each of pure and fresh extract of
hemlock ; that the dose is not too large if the storaach and
head .can bear il ; that he has known twenty grains given at
a dose with good effect. To determine, however, whether
Vol. I.— a a a 16*

370 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 37.
this medicine has any agency in causing the sick stomach,
he thinks it would be well to take an occasion of omitting it
for a day or two, if Doctor Bard should approve of such an
experiment, and entertains any doubts about the effects of
the pills on the stomach. Some further conversation which
I have had wilh Doctor Rush will be contained in a letler
which I shall write by this post to Doctor Bard.
My last letter to you was almost an angry one, at whicli
you cannot be much surprised when you recollect the length
of time of your silenee, and that you are ray only corre
spondent respecting the concems of the faraily. I expect,
on Monday or Tuesday next, lo receive the continuation of
your journal for the fortnight past.
Mr. Leshlie wUl tell you that I have given directions for
your commencing Greek. One half hour faithfuUy applied
by yourself at study, and another al recitation with Mr.
Leshlie, will suffice to advance you rapidly.
Your affectionate, A. Burr.
TO HIS DAUGHTER THEODOSIA. Pliiladelphia, 7th January, 1794.
When your letters are written wilh tolerable spirit and
correctness, I read thera two or three times before I per
ceive any fault in them, being wholly engaged with the
pleasure they afford me ; but, for your sake, it is necessary
that I should also peruse them with an eye of criticism. The
foUowing are the only raispelled words. You write acurate
for accurate ; laudnam for laudanum ; intirely for entirely ;
this last word, indeed, is speUed both ways, but entirely is
the most usual and the raost proper.
Continue to use all these words in your next letler, that I
raay see that you know the true speUing. And tell me
what is laudanum ? Where and how made ? And what
are its effects ?

Aged 37.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 371
 " It was what she had long wished for, and was at a

loss how to procure it''
Don't you see that this sentence would have been perfect
and much more elegant without the last it ? Mr. Leshlie
will explain to you why. By-lhe-by, I took the liberty to
erase the redundant it before I showed the letter.
I am extremely impatient for your farther account of
mamraa's health. The necessity of laudanura twice a day
is a very disagreeable and alarraing circurastance. Your
letter was written a week ago, since which I have no ac
count. I ara just going to the Senate Charaber, where I hope
to meet a journal and letter. Affectionately,
A. Burr.
i ¦-¦¦ i
TO HIS DAUGHTER THEODOSIA.Philadelphia, Sth January, 1794
Your two letters of Friday and Saturday came together by
yesterday's raaU, which did not arrive till near sunset. Your
letter of Friday was not pul into the postoffice until Satur
day afternoon. You raight have as well kept it in your own
hands till Monday eleven o'clock. Since the receipt of
these letters I have been three limes to Doctor Rush to con
sult hira about a drink for your raamma ; but not having had
the good fortune lo find him, have written lo him on the
subject. I shall undoubtedly procure an answer in the
course of this day, and will forward it by to-morrow's post.
I beg, Miss Prissy, that you will be pleased to name a
single " unsuccessful effort" which you have made to please
rae. As to the letters and joumals which you did write,
surely you have reason abundant lo beUeve that they gave
rae pleasure ; and how the douse I am to be pleased with
those you did not write, and how an omission to write can
be called an " effort," reraains for your ingenuity to disclose.
You iraprove ranch in journalizing. Your last is far raore
sprightly than any of the preceding. Fifty-six lines sola
was, I admit, an effort worthy of yourself, and which I hope

372 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 37.
wiU be often repeated. But pray, when you have got up to
two hundred lines a lesson, why do you go back again to
one hundred and twenty, and one hundred and twenty-five ?
You should strive never to diminish ; but I suppose that vis
inertia, which is often so troublesome to you, does some
times preponderate. So it is now and then even with your
A. Burr.
Learn the difference between then and than. You wUl
soonest perceive it by translating thera into Latin.
Let rae see how handsoraely you can subscribe your
name to your next letter, about this size, A. Burr.
TO HIS DAUGHTER THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 10th of January, 1794.
I fear that you will imagine that I have been inattentive
to your last request about Dr. Rush ; but the truth is, I can
get nothing satisfactory out of hira. He enumerates over
to me all the articles which have been repeatedly tried, and
some of which did never agree with your mamma. He is,
however, particularly desirous that she should again try raUk
— a spoonful only at a time : another attempt, he thinks,
should be raade wilh porter, in sorae shape or other. Sweet
oil, raolasses, and railk, in equal proportions, he has known
lo agree wilh sloraachs which had rejected every thing else.
Yet he says, and with show of reason, that these things de
pend so rauch on the taste, the habits of Ufe, the peculi
arity of constitution, that she and her attending physician
can be the best, if hot the only advisers. It gives rae very
great pleasure to learn that she is now better. I shall write
you again on Sunday, having always much to say to you
Adieu.
A. Burr.

Aged 37.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 373

TO theodosia.
Philadelphia, 13th January, 1794.
Your letter of the 9th, my dear Theo., was a most agree
able surprise to me. I had not dared even to hope for
one until to-morrow. In one instance, at least, an attempt
to please rae has not been " unsuccessfiU." You see I do
not forget that piece of impudence.
Doctor Rush says that he cannot conceive animal food to
be particiUarly necessary ; nourishment is the great object.
He approves much of the railk punch and chocolate. The
storaach must on no account be offended. The intermission
of the pills for a few days (not however for a whole week)
he thinks not amiss to aid in determining ils effects. The
quantity may yet be increased without danger, but the pres
ent dose is in his opinion sufficient ; but after some days
continual use, a small increase raight be useful.
I was yesterday thronged with company from eight in
the raorning tiU eleven al night. The Greek signature,
though a little raistaken, was not lost upon rae. I have a
letter from Mr. Leshlie, which pays you raany corapliraents.
He has also ventured to proraise that you will every day get
a lesson in Terence by yourself. You know how grateful
this will be to
A. Burr.
to theodosia.
Philadelphia, 14th January, 1794.
I really think, my dear Theo., that you wiU be very
soon beyond all verbal criticism, and that my whole atten
tion will be presently directed to the improvement of your
style. Your letler of the 9th is remarkably correct in point
of spelling. That word recieved still escapes your atten
tion. Try again. The words wold and shold are mere
carelessness ; necessery instead of necessary, belongs, I sus
pect to the same class.

374 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 37.
"Dr. B. called here, but did not speak of his having re-
cjeved a letter from you, but desired," &c.
When I copied the foregoing, I intended to have shown
you how to improve it ; but, upon second thought, determine
to leave it to yourself. Do me the favour lo endorse it on,
or subjoin il lo, your next letter, corrected and varied ac
cording lo the best of your skill.
" Ma begs you will omit the thoughts of leaving Congress,"
&c. ; " omit" is improperly used here. You mean " aban
don, relinquish, renounce, or abjure the thoughts," &c.
Your mararaa, Mr. Leshlie, or your dictionary (Johnson's
folio), will teach you the force of this observation. The last
of these words would have been too strong for the occasion.
You have used with propriety the words " encoraium" and
" adopted." I hope you raay have frequent occasion for
the forraer, with the like application.
" Cannot be coraraitted lo paper," is well expressed.
A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 16th January, 1794.
I hope the raercury, if tried, wUl be used with the raost
vigilant caution and the raost attentive observation of its first
effects. I am extremely anxious and apprehensive about
the event of such an experiment.
I fear, my dear lillie girl, that my letter of the 13th im
posed loo rauch upon you ; if so, dispense with what you
raay find too troublesome. You perceive by this license
the entire confidence which I place in your discretion.
Your journal stiU advances towards perfection. But the
letter which accompanied it is, I reraark with regret, rather
a falling off. I have received none raore carelessly written,
or with raore nuraerous oraissions of words. I am sensible
that many apologies are at hand ; but you, perhaps, would
not be sensible that any were necessary, if I should omit to
remind you.

Aged 37.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 375
On Sunday se'nnight (I think the 26th) I shall, unless
baffled or delayed by ice or weather, be with you at Rich
mond Hill. I will not bid you adieu tiU the Friday prece
ding. In the interim, we shall often in this way converse.
I continue the practice of scoring words for our mutual
iraproveraent. The use, as applicable to you, was indicated
in a forraer letler.
I ara sure you will be charmed wilh the Greek language
above all others. Adieu.
A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 23d January, 1794.
Io, triuraphe ! There is not a word raispelled either in
your journal or leiter, which cannot be said of a single page
you ever before wrote. The fable is quite classical, and, if
not very rauch corrected by Mr. Leshlie, is truly a surpri
sing performance, and written most beautifully. But what
has become of poor Alpha Bela ? Discouraged ? That is
impossible. Laid aside for the present ? That, indeed, is
possible, but by no means probable. Shall I guess again ?
Yes ; you raean to surprise rae wilh sorae astonishing prog
ress. And yet, to confess the truth, your lessons in Ter
ence, Exercises, and " music" (without a k, observe) seem
to leave little time for any other study. I must remain m
suspense for four days longer.
Doctor Rush thinks that bark would not be amiss, but may
be beneficial if the stomach does not rebulie it, which raust
be constantly the first object of attention. He recommends
either the cold infusion or substance as least likely to of
fend the stomach.
Be able, upon my arrival, to tell rae the difference be
tween an infusion and decoction ; and the history, the vir
tues, and the botanical or raedical name of the bark. Cham
bers wiU teU you more perhaps than you wiU wish to read

376 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 38.
of it. Your little mercurial disquisition is ingenious, and
prettily told.
I have a most dreary prospect of weather and roads for
my joumey. I set off on Saturday moming, and much
fear that it wUl take two or three days to get to New- York.
A. Burr.

TO THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 13th February, 1794.
I received your letler and enclosures yesterday in Sen
ate. I stopped reading the letter, and took up the story in
the place you directed ; was really affected by the interest
ing little tale, faithfully believing it to have been taken from
the Mag. D'Enf., and was astonished and deUghted when I
recurred to the letter and found the little deception you had
played upon me. It is concisely and handsomely told, and
is indeed a performance above your years.
Mr. Leshlie is not, I am afraid, a competent judge of
what you are capable of learning ; you musl convince him
that you can, when you set in eamest about it, accomplish
wonders. Do you mean that the forty lines which you constmed in
Virgil were in a part you had not before learned ?
I despair of getting genuine Tent wine in this city.
There never was a bottle of real unadulterated Tent im
ported here for sale. Mr. Jefferson, who had sorae for his
own use, has left town. Good Burgundy and Muscat, raix
ed in equal parts, raake a better Tent than can be bought.
But by Bartow's return you shaU have what I can get —
sooner if I find a conveyance.
Bartow is the most perfect gossip I ever knew ; though,
I raust say, it is the kind of life I have advised him to
wbUe he stays here. Adieu.
A. Burr.

Aged 38.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 377

TO THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 7th March, 1794.
Your letter of the 4lh was three days on the road. I am
certain that I have answered punctually aU which have
come to hand. True, I have not written to you as fre
quently as during the first few weeks of my residence here.
For the last month I have been very much occupied by
public business. You will need no other proof of it when
I lell you that near twenty unanswered letters are now on
my desk, not one of yours among thera, however, except
that received last evening. I have not even been to the
theatre except about an hour, and then it was more an
errand of business than amuseraent.
Poor Tora,* I hope you take good care of hira. If he is
confined by his leg, &c., he raust pay the greater attention
to his reading and writing.
I shall run off to see you about Sunday or Monday ; but
the roads are so extremely bad that I expect to be three
days getting through. I will bring wilh rae the cherry
sweetraeals, and soraething for Augusta Louisa Matilda
Theodosia Van Horne. I believe I have not recollected
all her names. Affectionately,
A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 31st March, 1794.
I am disfressed at your loss of time. I do not, indeed,
whoUy blame you for it, but this does not diminish ray
regret. When you want punctuality in your leiters, I am
sure you want it in every thing; for you wUl constantiy
observe that you have the most leisure vvhen you do the
most business. NegUgence of one's duty produces a self-
* A coloured man, the slave of Colonel Burr.
Vol. I.— B b b

^ 378 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 38.
dissatisfaction which unfits the mind for every thing, and
ennui and peevishness are the never-failing consequences.
You wiU readily discover the truth of these remarks by
refiecting on your own conduct, and the different feelings
which have fiowed from a persevering attention to study,
or a restless neglect of it.
I shall in a few days (this week) send you a raost beau
tiful assortment of flower-seeds and flowering shrubs.
If I do not receive a letter from you to-morrow, I shall
be out of all patience. Every day's journal wiU, I hope,
say something of mararaa.
A. Burr.
^ TO THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 7th June, 1794.
I have received ray dear Theo.'s two little, very little,
French letlers. The last left you torraented with headache
and toothache, too much for one poor little girl to suffer al
one time, I am sure : you had doubtless taken some sud
den cold. You must fight them as well as you can liU I
corae, and then I will engage to keep thera al bay.
I remark that you do not acknowledge the receipt of a
long letter which I wrote you on the road the night after
I left New- York. I hope it has not missed you ; but it is
needless now to ask about it, for I shall certainly see you ,
before I could receive your answer to this.
Whatever you shall translate of Terence, I beg you lo
have copied in a book in a very fair handwriting.
A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA.
Albany, 4th August, 1794.
My dear Theo.,
We arrived here yesterday, after a hot, tedious passage
of seven days. We were delayed as well by accidents as
by calms and contrary wmds. The first evening, being

Aged 38.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 379
under full saU, we ran ashore at Tappan, and lay tiiere
aground, in a very uncomfortable situation, twenty-four
hours. With great labour and fatigue we got off on the
following night, and had scarce got under sail before we
missed our longboat. We lost the whole tide in hunting
for il, and so lay till the morning of Wednesday. Having
then made sail again, with a pretty strong head wind, at the
very first tack the Dutch horse fell overboard. The poor
devil was at the lime tied about the neck with a rope, so
that he seemed to have only the alternatives of hanging or
drowning (for the river is here about four miles wide, and
the water was very rough) ; fortunately for hira, the rope
broke, and he went souse into the water. His weight
sunk hira so deep that we were at least fifty yards frora
hira before he carae up. He snorted off the water, and
turning round once or twice, as if to see where he was,
then recollecting the way to New- York, he iraraediately
swam off down the river vrith all force. We fitted out our
longboat in pursuit of him, and al length drove him on
shore on the Westchester side, where I hired a man to
take him lo Frederick's. All this delayed us nearly a
whole tide more. The residue of the voyage was with
out accident, except such as you may picture to yourself in
a small cabin, with seven men, seven woraen, and two cry
ing children — two of the women being the most splenetic,
ill-humoured animals you can imagine.
On my arrival here I was delighted to receive your let
ter of the 30th, wilh the journal of that and the preceding
days. Yom- history of those three days is very full and
satisfactory, and has induced rae, by way of retum, to enlarge
on the particulars of my journey. I am quite gratified that
you have secured Mrs. Penn's (observe how it is spelled)
good opinion, and content with your reasons for not saying
the civU things you intended. In case you should dine in
company with her, I will apprize you of one circurastances,
by a trifling attention to which you may elevate yourself in

380 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 38.
her esteem. She is a great advocate for a very plain, rather
abstemious diet in children, as you may see by her conduct
with Miss Elizabeth. Be careful, therefore, to eat of but one
dish ; that a plain roast or boUed : Uttie or no gravy or bul
ter, and very sparingly of dessert or fruit : not more than
half a glass of wine ; and if more of any thing to eat or drink
is offered, decline it. If they ask a reason — Papa thinks it
not good for me, is the best that can be given.
It was wilh great pain and reluctance that I raade this
joumey without you. But your raanners are not yet quite
sufficiently forraed to enable you to do justice to your own
character,* and the expectations which are formed of you,
or to ray wishes. Iraprove, therefore, to the utmost the
present opportunity ; inquire of every point of behaviour
about which you are embarrassed ; iraitate as much as you
can the raanners of Madame De S., and observe also every
thing which Mrs. Penn says and does.
You should direct your own breakfast. Send Cesar every
moming for a pint of railk for you ; and, to save trouble to
Madarae De S., let her know that you eat at breakfast only
bread and bulter.
I wish you would read over your leiters after you have
written them ; for so many words are omitted, that in some
places I cannot raake out the sense, if any they contain.
Make your figures or ciphers in your letters, but write out
the nurabers at length, except dates.
Adieu, affectionately adieu,
A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA.
Albany, 14th August, 1794.
My dear Theo.,
Last evening's raaU brought me your letter and journal
frora the 1st lo the llth of August, according to your dales,
which, however, are wrong.
* Theodosia had now entered her twelfth year.

Aged 38.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 381
The account of your time is very satisfactory. You
really get along much better than I expected, which is
infinitely to the credit of your good sense, that being your
only guide. From the attentions you receive from Mrs.
Penn and her family, I judge you have been so fortunate
as to gain her esteera, and that her prejudices are turned into
prepossessions, which I assure you gratified rae not a little.
Your invitation to the Z.'s was, I confess, a very erabar-
rassing dilemma, and one from which it was not easy to
extricate yourself. For the future, take it as your rule to
visit only the families which you have known me to visit ;
and if Madame De S. should propose to you lo visit any
other, you may tell her what are my instructions on the
subject. To the young ladies, you may pretend business or
engageraents : avoid, however, giving any offence to your
companions. Il is the raanner of a refusal, rauch raore than
the refusal, which gives offence. This direction about your
visits applies only to the citizens or English famUies. You
raay, indeed it is my wish, that you should visit wilh
Madarae De S. all her French acquaintance.
I go this afternoon to attend a court at Ballslon, and
shall, on Monday, attend one at Troy, which will probably
last about three days ; after which I shall lake passage for
New- York, proposing, however, to pass a day at Kingston,
and another al Poughkeepsie, with citizen Hauterieve, so that
I may be expected horae sorae lirae in the week after next ;
but you wUl hear often frora rae before that tirae. You
must not send me any letter after those which will come by
the raail leaving New- York on Monday next ; yet you must
continue your letlers and journal as usual, for ray arause-
ment on my return.
In future, write no more on the little paper, but let the let
ters and journal be together on paper of this size, or cora
mon letter-paper. Set apart every day half an hour or an
hour to write to me, and I must again entreat you to write

382 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 38.
at least legibly : after great pains, I am whoUy vmable to
decipher some of the hieroglyphics contained in your last.
Four pages in Lucian was a great lesson ; and why, my
dear Theo., can't this be done a little oftener ? You must,
by this time, I think, have gone through Lucian. I wish
you to begin and go through it again ; for it would be sharae-
ful to pretend to have read a book of which you could not
construe a page. At the second reading you wUl, I sup
pose, be able to double your lessons ; so that you may go
through it in three weeks. You say nothing of -writing or
learning Greek verbs ; — is this practice discontinued ? and
why ?
I wish you to go oftener to the house. You may, if you
like, go any morning, to take an early breakfast there, giving
notice the day before to Mr. Leshlie, that he raay attend at
the hour of your return, when I know you can readily
make up the lost tirae.
Do you continue to preserve Madame De S.'s good opin
ion of your talents for the harp ? And do you find that you
converse with more facility in the French ? These are in
teresting questions, and your answer to this will, I hope,
.answer fully all the questions it contains. Vale, vale.
To THEODOSIA. Albany, 16th August, 1794.
Another post has arrived, and brought rae no letter from
you. It is the last omission which I shall readily peurdon,
and this only in consideration of your not having then re
ceived my last. I returned this day from Ballston, and
my principal business lo this city was to receive and answer
your letters. Judge, therefore, of my disappointment.
Mr. and Mrs. Witbeck made raany inquiries about you,
and appeared much mortified that you did not accorapany
me. I hope you wiU, before this can reach you, have answer-

Aged 38.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 383
ed J. Yates's letter. Once more I place my expectations on
the arrival of the next post.
Let me know whether Mrs. Penn has left town, how often
you have been with her, and what passed. I need not re
peat my anxiety lo know how you and Madarae de S. agree,
and what progress you make in music, dancing, and speak
ing French. She promised to give you now and then a les
son on the forte-piano ; 'is she as good as her word ?
Having faUed in your proraise to write by every post, you
cannot expect me to retum within the month — one promise
being founded on the other. Your affectionate papa,
...^^ A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA. ' "- '1
Albany, 18th August, 1794.
Yesterday I received your letter and journal to the 13th
inclusive. On the 13lh you say you got nine pages in Lu
cian. It was, to be sure, a most surprising lesson. I sus
pect it must have been the second time going over; and
even then it would have been great, and at the same rate
you will be through a second time before my month is up.
I should be delighted to find it so. I have not told you di
rectly that I should slay longer than a month, but I was an
gry enough wilh you lo stay three months when you neglect
ed to write to rae for two successive posts.
I am very sorry to see so many blank days with Mr.
Leshlie. If he is not al your room within a quarter of an
hour of his lirae, Cesar should be forthwith sent off express
for hira. Let Cesar; therefore, call on you every morning
at the hour Mr. Leshlie ought to come.
I left New-York on the 28th of July. My month, there
fore, will expire on the 28th of August, so that you cannot
complain until that day is past. The court at Troy will
probably detain me the whole of this week, which is tiiree
days longer than I expected.

384 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 38.
I long to hear what you contributed towards Madame de
S.'s jour de fete. No letler yet for John Yates. Why do
you delay it so long ? You have had several leisure days ;
for this delay there should be some apology in your letter.
Affectionately your papa,
A. Burr.

TO THEODOSIA.
Troy, 21st August, 1794.
My dear Theo.,
I sent Alexis in the rain to Albany for your leiter of the
I8lh and journal, which he has just brought me. Your let
ters are my only consolation during this afflicting absence —
for it is to rae a real affliction. I have forborne to express
to you ray irapatience, lest it should increase yours.
The business I have undertaken here will, contrary to all
expectation, detain rae till Saturday night. I hope to be on
my return on Monday, when you raust begin to pray for
northerly winds ; or, if you have learned, to say raass, that
the French Roraan Catholics rely on to procure them all
earthly and spiritual blessings. By-lhe-by, if you have not
been lo the Roraan chapel, I insist that you go next Sunday,
if you are not engaged in sorae other party.
I ara very happy to receive a letler for John Yates. I
shaU send it to hira to-day ; it is very handsome, and will
please him rauch. I will indeed' return with all possible
speed. Continue your journal. Adieu.
A. Burr.
TO theodosia.
Philadelphia, 21st December, 1794.
I obeyed faithfully the comraand in your letter which
bade rae read the journal first, and I read it with great ea
gerness, hoping to find what I did find in the last sentence.
That 16th was really a surprising day. Three hundred and

Aged 38.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 385
ninety-five lines, aU your exercises, and aU your music. Go
on, my dear girl, and you wiU becorae all that I wish.
I keep carefuUy your letters and journals, and when we
meet you shall read them again, which I am sure you will
do with pleasure. It is always delightful to see and correct
our own errors.
Monsieur Maupertuis is highly mortified that you should
suppose him so ignorant as lo have lost himself on the road.
It seems he only went a little off the highway /rom curios
ity to see the country.
I hope you like Terence. Can't you lug a scrap from
him now and then, apropos, into your letters ? It wiU please
Your affectionate papa, A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA IN PHILADELPHIA. New-York, Sth January, 1795.
You see me safe arrived in New-York. I have passed
but one hour at Richmond Hill. It seems solitary and un
desirable without you. They are all well, and much, very
much disappointed that you did not come wilh me.
Pray write to Mrs. A., if but one line ; she expects and
deserves it. I was there last evening for the first time.
Your picture is really like you ; still it does not quite please
me. It has a pensive,.sentimental air ; that of a love-sick
maid ! Stewart has probably meant to anticipate what you
may be at sixteen ; but even in that I think he has missed it.
Bartow has grown immensely fat. Mrs. A. has recov
ered and walks about. There has been a serious attempt to
institute masquerade. It has not succeeded, nor is it yet
abandoned. We (you and I) have both neglected one duly of civUity.
Some weeks ago Mrs. Jackson was polite enough to call on
you, wilh Miss Jackson and Miss Brown, who left you cards.
You have never returned the visit. I beg you to do it with
out delay. Doctor Edwards wiU probably make time to go
Vol, I.— C c c 17

386 MEMOIRS OF AARON BDRR. [Agcd 39
with you for a few minutes. It is at Doctor Jackson's in
Third-street, between High and Arch.
Our house in Partition-street is very neatly finished, and
pleases me much ; so rauch that I propose to inhabit it upon
our return from Philadelphia, at least until the hot weather.
You are now in the arms of Soranus, or ought to be ; for
though I dale ray letter the 5th, it is in truth about halfpast
eleven at night of the 4th. So wants half an hour of the
5lh. Dream on. Salutem.
A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA.
Bristol, 14th September, 1795.
Saturday night I lodged at Elizabethtown, and, after two
wettings, dined on Sunday wilh General Freelinghuysen.
Madarae (late Miss Yard) asked rauch after you, as did Ma
ria, the general's daughter. The faraily is a picture of cheer
fulness and happiness. At Princeton (to-day) I raet Le
Mercier, who is well, except a broken scull, a face disfig
ured, and some bruises about the ribs — considerable deduc
tions, you will say, from the "corpore sano." They are
the effects of a very huge beating bestowed on him (gratis)
by two gentlemen of the town. He had some difference
with one of them, who had challenged him, which Le Mer
cier refused, not being a Christian-like and clerical way of
settling differences. So the challenger, with a friend (for
L. M. could have thrashed hira singly), took an opportunity
to catch poor Le Mercier alone, and discussed the subject
wilh him in the raanner above stated.
Your friends Miss Stockton and Miss Sraith said some
civil things about you, and send abundance of love, which I
promised thera I would forget to deliver.
My journey thus far has been wonderfully fortunate, hav
ing only overset once and broken down once, which, consid
ering that I ara seventy miles on my route, is, for me, a very
sraall list of grievances ; but I shall count it full measure if

Aged 39.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 387
I am prevented from entering Philadelphia to-rapiTOW, which
is a little lo be apprehended.
You musl pay off Meance and Hewlet for their attend
ance on you and Natalie.* They must be paid regularly at
the end of each month. I forgot it. Get their accounts,
and give them an order on Strong for the amount. When
either of you want raoney, Roger Strong will fumish it.
Pray settle also your account with Madame Senat, and write
me that these things are done.
Tell Mr. Martel that I request that all the lime he can
spare you be devoted to Latin ; that I have provided you
with a teacher of French, that no part of his attention might
be. taken off. I will send frora Philadelphia the certificate
he requested, which escaped my raemory while at New-
York. I fear it will puzzle you all lo decipher this. You may
show to Mr. Martel the clause which relates to him. Salu
tem, chere Theodosia,
A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 17th September, 1795.
By this post I received a letter frora Colonel Ward, re
questing leave lo ijemove his faraily into my house, Rich
mond Hill. He lives, you raay recollect, in the part of the
town which is said to be sickly. I could not therefore
refuse. He will call on you lo go out with him. You had
better, immediately on receipt of this, go out yourself, and
apprize Anthony and Peggy.
Your letter lo Kersaint is much lo the purpose. It came
by this day's raail, though put in the postoffice on Tuesday,
out after the closing of the maU. With it I have also re-
* Natalie De Lage was the daughter of a French lady, who was once a mem
ber of the family of the Princess L'Ambaul. Natalie was adopted and educated
by Colonel Burr as his child. She married the son of General Sumter, of
South Carolina.

388 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 39.
ceived your letter, written, I suppose, on Tuesday evening,
because it speaks of the circus ; but, as usual, without date.
I beg that, when you sit down to write a letter, you will be i
gin by putting a date at the top ; this will then presently
become a habit, and wiU never be omitted.
I ara sorry, very sorry that you are obliged to subrait to
some reproof. Indeed, I fear that your want of attention
and politeness, and your awkward postures, require it. As
you appear desirous to get rid of these bad habits, I hope
you will soon afford no roora for ill-nature itself to find fault
with you — I mean in these particulars ; for as to what re
gards your heart and your motives of action, I know them
to be good, amiable, and pure. But to return to the subject
of raanners, &c. I have often seen Madame al table, and
other situations, pay you the utmost attention ; offer you
twenty civilities, while you appeared scarcely sensible that
she was speaking lo you ; or, at the raost, replied with a cold
remercie, without even a look of satisfaction or complacency.
A moment's refiection will convince you that this conduct
will be naturally construed into arrogance ; as if you thought
that all attention was due to you, and as if you felt above
showing the least to anybody. I know that you abhor such
sentiments, and that you are incapable of being actuated by
them. Yet you expose yourself lo the censure without in
tending or knowing it. I believe you will in future avoid it.
Observe how NataUe replies to the smallest civility which
is offered to her. i
Your habit of stooping and bringing your shoulders for
ward on to your breast not only disfigures you, but is alarm
ing on account of the injury to your health. The continu
ance in this vUe habit wiU certainly produce a consumption :
then fareweU papa ; farewell pleasure ; fareweU life ! This
is no exaggeration ; no fiction to excite your apprehensions.
But, setting aside this distressing consideration, I am aston
ished that you have no more pride in your appearance.
You wiU certainly stint your growth and disfigure your
person.

Aged 39.] MEMOIRS OP aaron burr. 389
Receive with calmness every reproof, whether made
kindly or unkindly; whether just or unjust. Consider
within yourself whether there has been no cause for it. If
it has been groundless and unjust, nevertheless bear it with
composure, and even with complacency. Reraeraber that
one in the situation of Madame has a thousand things to
fret the temper ; and you know that one out of humour, for
any cause whatever, is apt to vent il on every person that
happens to be in the way. We raust learn to bear these
things ; and, let rae tell you, that you will always feel rauch
belter, much happier, for having borne with serenity the
spleen of any one, than if you had relurned spleen for
spleen. You will, I am sure, my dear Theodosia, pardon two
such grave pages frora one who loves you, and whose hap
piness depends very much on yours. Read it over twice.
Make me no proraises on the subject. On ray return, I
shall see in half an hour whether what I have written has
been well or ill received. If well, it will have produced an
effect. I have sent Alexis with your letter to Kersaint while I
¦write this. After closing of the raail I shall present rayself.
To-morrow morning I take stage for Baltimore ; thence to
Washington, &c. You shall certainly hear often from me.
You have not yet acknowledged the receipt of ray leiter
from Bristol. R. Strong has received his, written at the
same time. Having many letters to answer by this mail, I
cannot add any thing sprightly to this dull letter. One dull
thing you will hear me repeat without disgust, that
I am your affectionate friend,
A. Burr
TO THEODOSIA.
City of Washington, 23d September, 1795.
I write from the house of our friends. Law and Duncan-
son, where I make my home. Miss Duncanson, who is

390 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 39.
raistress of the house, is a very sprightiy, sensible, ladyUke
woman. My remarks on this city are reserved tiU we
meet. Your letter of the 17th, and one without date (I suppose
the 18th), came in this evening. They contain more wit
and sprightliness than you ever wrote in the same corapass,
and have amused me exceedingly. But why do you dimin
ish their value by carelessness ? There is an omission of
one or more words in almost every sentence. At least I
entreat you to read over your letlers before you seal thera :
sorae clauses are absolutely unintelligible, though in sever
al I can guess what word you intended.
Why are you still in town ? I ara very rauch dissatisfied
with it ; for Mr. Strong wriles rae that the fever is in Parti
tion-street. I beg you to go off with a good parcel of books
to Frederick's.
I told Madame Senat that I should want the two front
rooms in Partition-street, and the very small room which
adjoins the smallest of the front rooms ; and surely she will
have room enough without il. Try to arrange this so ; that
is, by asking her if she cannot spare that roora (the large
front). Mr. Strong writes rae that she is taking possession
of it. In that case ray papers wUl be moved, which will be
very disagreeable lo rae.
I fix the 24th of October for my return ; if any very ex
traordinary thing should detain me, you shall be advised of
it seasonably. Direct lo me at the city of Washington un
til the 10th of October. Tell R. Strong the same. I for
got to -write it to hira.
When you go on any party frora Pelhara, to Brown's
Mrs. Cox's, &c., your studies may be intermitted. At least
as much of thera as may be necessary. I am tired, and
half sick ; a great cold, for which I shall lie by here to-
raorrow. Thine,
A. Burr.

Aged 39.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 391

TO THEODOSIA.

City of Washington, 26th September, 1795.
Since Tuesday last I have been here much against my
wiU ; arrested by high command ; performing quarantine by
authority not to be questioned or controverted. In plain
English, I am sick. On Wednesday I found one side of ray
face as large as your uncle F.'s ; red swoUen eyes ; ears
buzzing and almost stopped ; throat so closed as to refuse
a passage to words out or food in; and a stupid mazy-
headedness, well adapted lo the brilliancy of ray figure.
Being the guest of my friends Law and Duncanson, I re
ceive from them the most distressing attentions, but espe
cially from Miss Duncanson, a well-bred, sprightiy, and
agreeable woman. My person had not, however, tUl this
moming, received its last embellishraent. Alexis carae in
at his usual hour, and presenting himself at ray bedside,
after staring at rae for half a rainute, exclaimed, with an air
of great astonishment — Diable ! and not a word more. Qu'
a-t-il, Alexis ? To -wliich he made not a word of reply, but
fell to drawing up the curtains ; and having also very delib
erately opened the window-shutters, he returned again to
his examination. After gazing for some lirae (which I
found it useless to interrupt), he diabled two or three times
at intervals of sorae seconds, and then pronounced that I had
ou lalpetiie verolejou la^ougeote;) and lo convince me, brought
a glass. In truth he did not diable without reason, for ray
whole face, neck, hands, and arras are raost bountifully
covered with something like the measles or rash. All
these pleascml appearances seem to be the effects of a great
cold, taken I know not when or how —
" Nil illi larva aut tragicis upus esse cothumis.^'
My throat is something better, notwithstanding I went
abroad yesterday.

392 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 39.
Sunday, 27th September. '
I am so much better to-day, that, if the weather was
good, I should prosecute my joumey if I could find the
means of getting on ; but the rain, which is continual and
very heavy, keeps well and sick within doors.
It is now ten days since I have heard from you; a very
long time, considering the situation in which you was left
at the date of your last : in a city infected with a mortal
and contagious fever. I hope, nay, I persuade myself that
you obeyed my wishes by escaping from it to Pelham.
The next majl will tell rae, and, I trust, relieve me frora an
anxiety which pursues me day and night. Monday, 28th September.
Your letter ofthe 21st, written, I suppose, at Dr. Brown's,
is just come in, and relieves me from a weight of anxiety
about your health. I am sorry, however (very sorry), that
you are not at Frederick's, and am not absolutely either
pleased or satisfied with the change.
Of attention and tenderness you will receive not only
enough, but a great deal too much ; and an indulgence to
every inattention, awkward habit, and expression, which
may lead you to imagine thera lo be so many ornEiments :
as to your language, I shall expect to find it perfectly
infantine. As to studies or lessons, I do not know which
of them you allude to, as you do not say what books you
have taken up. If Mr. Leshlie is your only master, as I
suppose, your lesson must be larger than ever heretofore.
Your translation of the comedy into French, if not finished,
musl go on ; and if finished, something similar must be
taken up. Sorae English or French history raust eraploy
a Uttie of every day. I hope you will ride on horseback
daily if the weather should perrait — Sara* always with
you. Visit your neighbours B. B. as often as you please,
* A slave of Colonel Bum's.

Aged 40.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 393
taking very great care not to surfeit the famUy wilh your
charming company, which may happen much sooner than
you would be inclined to believe.
You ought to be out of the Odyssey before this will
reach you, counting only two hundred lines a day since we
parted. You may begin the Iliad, if you please. Since
you are at uncle B.'s, I will not now pretend to inquire into
the motives, much less to censure. I have no doubt but
you meant to do the best, and I now hope you will endeav
our to raake the best of it, and bad enough that wUl be,
with respect to all improveraent, if I am not disappointed.
Pray allot an hour for your journal, and never let it be a
day in arrear I shall consider this as occupying usefuUy
the hour which used to be Hewlel's or Meance's. At any
rate, let me not, on ray return, have occasion to apply to
you the motto, " Strenua me exercet inertia,"
nor that other of " Operose nihil agit."
But SO improve your tirae that you may with pleasure re
view and commit it to journal.
 " Hoc est,
Vivere bis, vita priori frui."
And let it, at no very distant period, be said of you,
" Tot, tibi, sunt, ergo dotes, quot sidera coelo."
If you should never deserve this, it shaU not be the fault of
A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA IN PHILADELPHIA. New-York, Sth Febraary, 1796.
What wUl you think of the taste of New- York when I
shall tell you that Miss Broadhurst is not very generally
admired here ? Such is the fact. I have contributed my
feeble efforts to correct this opinion.
Vol. I.— D d d 17*

394 MEMOIRS or aaron burr. [Aged 40.
1
Mat's* child wiU not be christened untU you shall be
pleased to indicate the time, place, manner, and name.
I have promised Tom that he shaU take rae to Philadel
phia if there be sleighing. The poor feUow is alraost crazy
about it. He is iraporluning all the gods for snow, but as
yet they don't appear to listen to hira.
Your being in the ballette charras rae. If you are to prac
tise on Wednesday evening, do not slay away for the ex- /
peclation of receiving me. If you should be at the bal-'
lette, I wiU go forthwith to see you. Adieu, chfere ffile.
A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA.
Philadelphia, 16th January, 1797.
When I write to you oftener than your turn, you must
not let it be known, or there will be jealousy. Your two
leiters of the llth and 13th have so rauch -wit, sprightliness,
and good sense, that I cannot delay lo tell you how rauch
they pleased rae. Go on, and you -will write better than
Cynthia herself. To aid your advances towards perfection,
I shall often point out such errors as shaU appear to rae
raore particularly to claim your attention.
Al present you fail most in punctuation. A very little
thought will teach where the sense is complete and a full
period is proper. The lesser pauses may be found by read
ing over two or three times what you may have written.
You will naturally make small pauses where the sense shall
require il. In spelling you are very well. Always -write
your narae with great care. Adieu.
A. Burr.
? A servant of Colonel Burr.

Aged 40.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 395

TO THEODOSIA. Philadelphia, 23d January, 1797.
You must not " puzzle all day," ray dear little girl, at one
hard lesson. After puzzling faithfully one hour, apply to
your arithraetic, and do enough to convince the doctor that
you have not been idle. Neither musl you be discouraged
by one unlucky day. The doctor is a very reasonable man,
and makes all due allowance for the levities as well as for
the stupidity of children. I think you will not often chal
lenge his indulgence on either score.
And do you regret that you are not also a woraan ? That
you are not nurabered in that galaxy of beauty which adorns
an assembly-room ? Coquetting for admiration and attract
ing flattery ? No. I answer with confidence. You feel
that you are maturing for solid friendship. The friends you
gain you will never lose ; and no one, I think, wUl dare to
insult your understanding by such corapliraents as are most
graciously received by too many of your sex.
How unpardonably you neglect C. and N. B. Where
are the proraised letters ? I see wilh delight that you ira
prove in diction, and in the combination and arrangement of
your little ideas. With a view to farther iraproveraent, your
letters lo rae are a raost useful exercise. I feel persuaded
that all my hopes and wishes concerning you will be accom
plished. Never use a word which does not fully express your
thoughts, or which, for any other reason, does not please
you. Hunt your dictionary till you find one. Arrange a
whole sentence in your mind before you -write a word of it ;
and, whatever may be your " hurry" (never be in a hurry),
read over your letter slowly and carefully before you seal it.
Interline and erase lightly with your pen what may appear
to you to requfre amendraent or correction. I dispense
with your copying unless the letler should be rauch defaced,
in which case keep it tiU the next maU. Copy and im
prove it.

396 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 42.
Your play on " Light" is pretty and witty, and the turn
on the dear little leiter does not dishonour the raeterapsy-
chosis of Madame Dacier.
i I shall probably see you very soon ; we will then rear
range your hours, and endeavour to reraove the present and
forestall all future troubles. I should be raortified — I should
be alraost offended — if I should find that you passed over
any word in my letters without becoraing perfectly acquaint
ed with its meaning, use, and etymology.
I Since I comraenced this letter, yours of the 21sl has corae
in. Il speaks of another which has not corae, and of Mar-
tel's paper, neither of which have corae. This arises from
" hurry." The note to Mr. Livingston is raiddUng. Affec
tionately — no, you hate that word ; perhaps every thing is
iraplied in plain
A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA.
Albany, 4th January, 1799.
On Tuesday I arrived here, and yesterday received your
two letlers of the 29th and 30lh of December. Your de
spondency distresses rae extremely. It is indeed unfortu
nate, my dear Theodosia, that we are constrained to be sep-
^ arated. I had never so much need of your society and
friendship, nor you, perhaps, of mine. It is a misfortune
, which I sincerely regret every hour of the day. It is one,
however, which you must aid me lo support, by testifying
that you can support your share of it with firmness and ac
tivity. An effort raade with decision will convince you that
you are able to accoraplish all I wish and all you desire.
Determination and perseverance in every laudable underta
king is the great point of difference between the silly and
the wise. It is essentially a part of your character, and re
quires but an effort to bring il into action. The happiness
of ray life depends on your exertions ; for what else, for
whom else do I Uve ? Not that the acquisition of the Ian-

Aged 42.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 397
guages alone can decide your happiness or mine ; but if you
should abandon the atterapt, or despair of success, or relax
your endeavours, it would indicate a feebleness of character
which would dishearten me exceedingly. It is for my sake
that you now labour. I shall acknowledge your advance
ment wilh gratitude and with the most lively pleasure. Let
me entreat you not to be discouraged. I know you to be
capable of much greater efforts than this will require. If
your young teacher, after a week's trial, should not suit you,
dismiss hira on any pretence without wounding his pride,
and take the old Scotchman. Resolve to succeed, and you
cannot fail.
I parted wilh you amid so much hurry and confusion, and
so many vexations, that, when I had time to reflect, I seem
ed to have said none of the things which I had wished and
intended. I reproached myself perpetually that I had not
urged you to attend me. Your letters almost confirmed rae
in the design of returning to fetch you ; and yet more sober
reason seems to tell rae that these things were rather the
effusions of sentiment than of a deliberate estimate of your
real interests. In six weeks, however, we shall meet.
I intended to have recommended to you the ancient and
modern history of MUlot. Natalie has some of the volumes
— some are in the library al Mrs. D.'s, of which I hope you
keep the key. MUlot is concise, perspicuous, and well se
lected. Rollin is full of tedious details and superstitious
nonsense. There is nothing more certain than that you may form
what countenance you please. An open, serene, intelligent
countenance, a little brightened by cheerfulness, not wrought
into smiles or simpers, will presently become familiar and
grow into habit. A year will with certainty accomplish il.
Your physiognomy has naturally rauch of benevolence, and
it will cost you some labour (which you raay well spare) to
eradicate it. Avoid, for ever avoid, a sraile or sneer of con
tempt ; never even miraic them. A frown of sullenness or

398 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 43.
discontent is but one degree less hateful. You seem to re
quire these things of rae, or I should have thought thera un
necessary. I see, with pleasure I see, that you have enga
ged in this raatter. We shaU both be gratified by the re
sult, which cannot faU lo accord with our wishes.
R. has a deal of godly coquetry. It raakes a strange
medley. I was most hospitably received, and full opportu
nity given with pretty apparent design. R. has pronUsed
to be in Albany in a month. Things are in statu quo.
I ara unsettled, and at present at Witbeck's. One would
think that the town was going into raouming for your ab
sence. I am perpetually slopped in the streets by little and
big girls. Where is Miss Burr ? Won't she come up this
winter ? Oh, why didn't you bring her ? &c.
J. B. P. arrived yesterday; he has not given rae a letter,
or any other thing frora you. He suspects, however, that he
has at least a letter ; a fact which he will endeavour to as
certain in the course of this week. I wrote you two letlers
on ray way up, addressed to 135 Greenwich-street. Is that
right ? Adieu, chere amie,
A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA.
Albany, llth Febraary, 1799.
On Saturday, the 9th, I received your two letters, from
the Ist to the 6th inclusive ; the last of which is the only
one that has come in due season, or in what is terraed
the course of post. You now see that a letter can corae
frora New-York in three days ; a truth which has been fre
quently verified by the receipt of ray letters, but never be
fore by the despatch of your own.
How very perverse and provoking you are about your
correspondence wilh Mr. Marlin. I told you expressly that
he was not angry, but, on the contrary, that he sent it laugh
ingly and as a good joke. Pray, from whom did you learn
that he was angry ?

Aged 43.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. • 399
You charge me with not noticing two of your letters, and
that I have not given you any directions about heedlessness.
With submission, miss, you are raistaken. It is trae that
I have not repeated the word, but I have intiraated several
things intended to this point. You expected, I presurae,
that I should treat the subject scientifically, as Duport does
his art, and begin by explanation of terras, and tiien proceed
to divide and subdivide the raatter, as a priest does a ser
mon. Such a dose would, I am sure, have sickened you.
I have therefore thought it best to give you very little at
a time, and watch, as physicians do wilh potent medicines,
the effect produced. When we meet, which I verily believe
wiU be in five or six days after the receipt of this, you shall
have as much as I shall find your stomach will bear.
What the dense can have got into Madame S. and N., I
am utterly at a loss to conjecture, and beg you not to give
the remotest hint, but raeet them as usual.
My overtures lo B. Livingston and Mr. and Mrs. R.were
mere volunteers, not produced by any thing you said or
wrote ; but I thought it might lend lo produce a certain ef
fect in your favour. So you have no apologies to make or
pardons to ask on this subject. As this, however, is rauch
the best composed part of your letler, I am particularly
obliged to you for it, even if you did il to display your elo
quence. It is, indeed, very happily expressed.
. You seem to have emerged frora your lethargy, which, I
must confess, was obvious to an alarraing degree in several
preceding letters. I congratulate you upon it, and hope y.ou
will never suffer it again to invade your faculties.
We will talk of houses, &c. about the 19th inst. Henry
Walton has gone to New- York by the last stage. He is
one of those whose good opinion and esteem I wish you lo
acquire. He has delicacy, taste, and refinement — very, very
rare qualities in this country at this day. He wUl be often
at your house ; receive him with courtesy.
I go to bed between 12 and 1, and rise between 7 and 8.

400 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 43.
For some reasons to me unknown, I cannot drink a single
glass of wine without serious injury ; still less can I bear
ardent spirits ; of course, I ara pretty rauch in the bread and
water Une ; this is the raore provoking, as I dine out almost
every day, and the dinners are really excellent and well-
dressed, not exceeded in New- York. I have dined at home
but four days since my arrival in this city. Think of that
Miss B., and be hush about hospitality, &c.
Your narae to one leiter is beautifully written ; to the
other, la la. The handwriting of the letters vaurious ; very
good, very bad, and raiddUng ; erableraalic, shall I say, of
the fair authoress ? Please lo resolve rae whether author is
not of both genders, for I hate the appendix of ess ?
What novel of Miss Burney or D'Arblay is that in which
the heroine begins by an interesting account of little detaUs
on her debut in London, and particularly of a ball where she
met Lord Soraebody and did twenty ridiculous things ? I
want such a description of a ball from you. Be pleased to
read those first letlers of the novel referred to, and take them
for a raodel.
You don't say half enough about the long leiter which I
wrote you on Sunday of the last week. Adieu, chere
amie.
A. Burr.
TO THEODOSIA.
Albany, 26th January, 1800.
We arrived yesterday without accident. To-day I ex
pected Alexis and John ; but the stage has arrived without
thera, and without a line explanatory of the cause of their
delay. On aUghting from the stage yesterday, I found at the door
of ray intended lodgings a nuraber of persons who were ira
patiently expecting ray arrival. I perceive that I shall be
day and night engrossed by business. If I should write to
you less or less often than usual, you wiU know the cause.

Aged 43.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 401
The ideas, of which you are the object, that daily pass
through my mind, would, if committed to writing, fill an oc
tavo volume ; invent, then, and teach me sorae mode of wri
ting wilh the facUity and rapidity that we think, and you
shall receive by every mail some hundred pages. But to
select from a thousand thoughts that which is best and most
seasonable ; of the variety of altitudes of which every ob
ject is susceptible, to determine on that which is most suita
ble for the thing and the occasion ; of all possible modes of
expression and language, lo discern the most appropriate, hic
labor, hoc opus est. Yet have we both known persons of a
moderate grade of intellect who could write whenever you
would put a pen in their hands, and for any length of time
you might please, without one moment of reflection or em
barrassment. Pray explain to me this phenomenon. All
this I confess is not very applicable to you or to my present
occupation, for I generally write you what first offers, with
out considering whether it be the best ; and if many obtrude
themselves at once, I write you, as at present, of — nothing.
Indeed, my dear Theodosia, I have many, many moments
of solicitude about you. Remeraber that occupation will
infaUibly expel the fiend ennui, and that soUtude is the bug
bear of fools. God bless and aid thee.
A. Burr
TO THEODOSIA.
Albany, 30th January, 1800.
Al length John and Alexis have arrived ; but what grati
fied me more, and what I looked for with much raore impa
tience was, a letter. I selected yours frora the nuraber
which they brought me. I was not disappointed. It merits
all the eagerness with which I had expected it.
You reflect, and that is a security for your conduct. Our
most humUiating errors proceed usually from inattention,
and from that mental dissipation which we call heedlessness.
You estimate your situation wilh great truth. Many are sur-
VoL. I.— E e e

402 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 43.
prised that I could repose in you so great a trust as that of
yourself ; but I knew that you were equal to it, and I am
not deceived.
You do right to stay much at home. Il wiU scarcely be
•worth while to go to V. P.'s. C. is excluded frora all rale.
I am quite oppressed with the kindness and friendship of h.
h. towards you. How fortunate you are in such a friend.
If their invitations should be so frequent as to interrupt yom-
lessons, you will do well to refuse even them. There is a
raeasure to be observed in the acceptance of the good offices.
even of our best friends ; and al your age, to prefer duty to '
pleasure when they are in collision, is a degree of firrnness
rarely exhibited, and, therefore, the raore calculated to inspire
respect. I perceive that I ara not very explicit ; but you will
reflect and discern ray raeaning. Montesquieu said he -wrote
to raake people think, and not to make them read — and why
may not A. Br. Perhaps, however, there may be no collis
ions ; and then your good sense will teach you not to wear
out good-wiU.
You indicate a very pleasant raode in which you suppose
I may raake you happy ; but you do not estimate things
rightly. What you iraagine to be symptoms of love are
the raere effusions of politeness, added lo respect and es
teem. I forget the plan we projected, but there can be no better
one than that of your last letter, to which, therefore, you
may adhere, unless indeed you can invent a better.
You may teU C. that as she and I are on ceremony, I
shaU expect the first letter. She knows weU that the bare
sight of her handvvriting would drive Le Guen and the
parchments to the antipodes. I do thank you for your
constancy about the French baU. Do not be alarmed lest
I expect too much. I know your force, and now feel
assured that I shall have reason to be more than satisfied
both with your discretion and your attainments.
I shaU not again find time to write you two pages ; so do

Aged 44.] MEMOIRS or aaron burr. 403
not expect it. Nevertheless, you wiU engross much, very
much of the thoughts and affections of
A. Burr
Previous lo the year 1800, slavery existed in the State of
New- York. Colonel Burr, at different periods, was the
owner of slaves. All those that remained in his family for
any length of time were taught to read and write. During
his absence from horae it was his practice to correspond
wilh one or raore of thera. As a ra.aster, he was beloved. A
few letters are here given as specimens of this correspond
ence. They are copied literally.
TO COLONEL BURR. New- York, 3d December.
Honoured Master,
1 received your leiter December 1st, and we are all happy
to hear that you are well. Harry has taken the chair to the
coachraaker's, and has gave hira directions according to your
orders. I have asked Jaraes lo write to you to know how
the venison was to be done ; but I will now have it cured
as you have ordered. The sashes of the windows were
nailed down the day that you went away, and the ladder
that you raention belongs to Mr. Halsey, and he has taken
it away. All the papers that have any writing on is put into
the drawers, and I will take care of the ink that it does not
freeze. Colonel Plait was here, and has taken the four red
cases that was in the -vvine-roora ; and he asked rae for a square
box, and as you had not told rae of it, I said that I had never
seen it. There is nothing in the stable ; but don't know
what is in Sam's room, as he has locked the door. We
are happy to hear that Sam, and George, and the horses
are in good order, and all the family gives their love to
them. Peggy Gai^tin.
(L

404 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 44.

TO COLONEL BURR. New-York, 17th December.
Honoured Master,
I received your letter, and am happy to hear that you are
in a good state of health. Harry went to Mr. Alston's farm
the day after I received the letter, and the man had gone
away the llth day of Deceraber. Stephen was not at
horae when he went there, and by what he could imder
stand there was a great difference between Daniel and
Stephen; and Harry says that for the lirae that he has
been there he had not neglected his work. But, master, I
wish to beg a favour of you ; please to grant it. I have
found there is a day-school, kept by an elderly man and
his wife, near to our house, and if raaster is willing that I
should go to it for two raonths, I think it would be of great
service to rae, and at the same time I will not neglect my
work in the house, if you please, sir.
Peggy.
to colonel burr.
New-York, 29th December.
Honoured Master,
I received your letter, which has given me no satisfaction
concerning your health ; and as there has been a report in
the paper that you was wounded, it has made us very un
easy, supposing it to be true ; but I hope that it is not so,
as I hear that people gives no credit to it. I go to the
school, since raaster is wiUing, and I like the teacher very
much. He pays great attention to my learning, and I have
teached Nancy her letters ever since you have been gone,
which I think will be of as much service to her as if she
went lo school. We are aU weU at present, and I hope
that you are the same.
Peggy.

Aged 44.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 405

to COLONEL BURR. New-York, 12th January.
Honoured Master,
I have received your letter of the 4lh inst., and it gives
us great happiness 4o hear that you are in good health, as
all the family are except myself. I was taken sick on the
30th of last month, so that I have not been able to go to
school ; and as I am better than I have been, to write
these few lines ; I am too weak to write Mrs. Alston, but
Elenora's child is well. The woman came here the 7th
of this month for the money, and Harry went to Mrs. Van
Ness the 9th, and she said that Mr. Van Ness did not tell
her any thing of it, and she could not give it.
Peggy.

CHAPTER XVIII.
The preceding correspondence not only introduces the
reader into the social circle of Colonel Burr, but into the :
bosom of his family. It develops his character, so far as
the most sacred and confidential communications can de
velop it — as a friend — a husband — a parent — and a master.
We are approaching a period, however, in his history
when the scene is to be changed. In the spring of 1794
Mrs. Burr died ; and in 1801 his daughter was raarried,
and removed to South Carolina. Thus terminated, in a
great measure, all those domestic relations and enjoyments
which had afforded him so much pleasure, and connected
with which he had indulged the best feelings of his heart.
Colonel Burr was a member of the Senate of the United
States from the 4th of March, 1791, untU the 4th of March,

406 MEMeiRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 37>
1797. During this period he continued lo practise the law.
He was in that class of his profession to which belonged a
Harailton, a Harrison, and a Livingston. The partiality
of sorae of his friends raay have placed hira at the head of
the bar. His opponents ranked hira second only to thefr
particular favourite. As a speaker. Colonel Burr was calm
and persuasive. He was most remarkable for the power
which he possessed of condensation. His appeals, whether
to a court or a jury, were sententious and lucid. His
speeches, generally, were argumentative, short, and pithy.
No flights of fancy, no raetaphors, no parade of impassioned
sentences, are to be found in thera. When employed on
the same side of a cause with General Hamilton, il was
his uniform practice to permit that gentleman to select his
own place in the cause.
It has often been remarked that Colonel Burr's character
could not be better drawn than it is in a short sketch of
his father, by Governor Livingston. " Though a person"
(says the governor) " of a slender and delicate make, to
encounter fatigue he has a heart of steel ; and, for the de
spatch of business, the most amazing talents, joined to a
constancy of mind that ensures success in spile of every ob
stacle. As long as an enterprise appears not absolutely im
possible, he knows no discouragement ; but, in proportion to
its difficulty, augments his diligence ; and, by an insuperable
fortitude, frequently accomplishes what his friends and ac
quaintance conceive utterly impracticable."
In the year 1793 Albert Gallatin was appointed a sena
tor of the United States by the Stale of Pennsylvania. On
clairaing his seal in January, 1794, a petition was presented
against his adraission into that body, on the ground that he
had not been a citizen the requisite nuraber of years. The
subject was referred to a coramittee of seven. Their re
port elicited a warra debate, which continued for several
days. Colonel Burr took an active part, and greatly dis
tinguished himself in support of Mr. Gallatin's claim. His

. Aged 38.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 407
colleague, Mr. King, had taken the lead against the right
of Mr. Gallatin to a seat. John Taylor, of Caroline, Vir
ginia, addressed a note to Colonel Burr, in which he says —
" We shall leave you lo reply lo King : first, because you
desired it ; second, all depends upon it ; no one else can
do it, and the audience wUl expect it."
On the 28th of February, 1794, the Senate " Resolved,
That the election of Albert GaUatin to be a senator of the
United Slates was void, he not having been a citizen of
the United States the term of years required as a quali
fication to be a senator of the United Stales." — Ays 14,
nays 12.
On the 20th of February, 1794, the Senate adopted a
resolution, decleuring that thefr -galleries, at the comraence
raent of the next session, should be opened while the
Senate were " engaged in their legislative/;apacity." For
this, or a similar resolution. Colonel Burr had voted at
every previous session since he had been a member.
His personal respect for John Jay has been heretofore
mentioned ; but on no occasion did he permit such feelings
lo interfere with his political acts, when called upon to per
form a public duty. On the 16th of April, 1794, the presi
dent nominated John Jay, then chief-justice of the United
States, as envoy extraordinary to Great Britain. On the
19th, when the nomination was called up for consideration,
Mr. Burr offered the following resolutions : —
" Resolved, That any communications to be made to the
court of Great Britain may be made through our minister
now at that court with equal facUity and effect, and al much
less expense, than by an envoy extraordinary ; and that
such an appointment is al present inexpedient and un
necessary :
" That to permit judges of the Supreme Court lo hold, at
the sarae tirae, any other office or employraent emanating
from, and holden at the pleasure of, the executive, is con
trary to the spirit of the constitution ; and, as tending to ex-

408 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Agcd 38.
pose them to the influence of the executive, is mischievous
and impolitic." Ays 10, nays 17.
The nomination was then confirmed by a vote of 18 to
8, Mr. Burr voting in the negative. This vote, il was un
derstood at the tirae, gave pain to Mr. Jay. In a letter to
his lady, dated the 20th of AprU, the judge says — " Yester
day the Senate approved of the nomination by a great ma
jority. Mr. Burr was among the few who opposed it."
About this period the deraocratic party were highly in
censed against the president for continuing Gouverneur Mor
ris as a minister to the French Republic. The Executive
Provisory Council had requested his recall. He was con
sidered a monarchist, and hostUe to the revolution. Many
of the opposition senators had spoken with great freedom
of the policy of General Washington Ui this particular.
These remarks having been communicated to the president,
he expressed, informally, a wUlingness to recall Mr. Morris,
and to nominate a member of the opposition, if they would
designate a suitable person. In consequence of this sug
gestion, the democratic merabers of the Senate, and some of
the most distingiyshed raerabers of the House, had a confer
ence, and resolved on recoraraending Colonel Burr. Mr.
Madison, Mr. Monroe, and another member of Congress
whose name is not recollected, were delegated to wait on
the president and communicate the wishes of the party.
General Washington paused for a few raoraents, and then
remarked, that he had raade it a rule of life never to recom
mend or nominate any person for a high and responsible sit
uation in whose integrity he had not confidence ; that, want
ing confidence in Colonel Burr, he could not nominate him ;
but that it would give him great pleasure to meet thefr
wishes if they would designate an individual in whom he
could confide. The committee returned and reported the
result of their conference. The senators adhered unani
mously to their first nomination, and the sarae delegates
waited upon the president and reiterated the adherence of

Aged 39.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. 409
their friends to Colonel Burr. Whereupon General Wash
ington, with some vyarmth, remarked that his decision was
irrevocable ; but immediately added, " I will nominate you,
Mr. Madison, or you, Mr. Monroe." The former replied
that he had long since made up his mind never to leave his
country, and respectfully declined the offer. They retired,
and reported the result of their second interview. The
deraocratic gentlemen were not less inflexible, and instruct
ed their delegates to say to the president that they would
make no other recoraraendalion. On the third visit they
were received by Mr. Randolph, secretary of state, to whom
they made the coramunication, but who considered it inde
corous, knowing the president's feelings, to repeat the mes
sage. ^
This incident deraonstrates, on the one hand, the strong
and unchangeable prejudices of General Washington against
Colonel Burr ; and on the other, the firm and unbounded.
confidence reposed in him by the democracy of those days.
The anecdote is not related on the authority exclusively of
Colonel Burr. It is confirmed by the written statement of
a gentleman of high standing, to whom Mr. Monroe repeat
ed all the detaUs. No other selection was raade by the op
position senators ; but, on the 27th of May, 1794, James
Monroe was nominated as Minister Plenipotentiary to the
French Republic.
On the 8th of June, 1795, the president submitted to the
Senate of the United States the treaty negotiated with Great
Britain by John Jay. This question called into operation
all the powers of Mr. Burr's mind. He was opposed lo it
in the form it had been negotiated. His views and opinions
may be distinctly understood by comparing the amendments
which he proposed wilh the original treaty. On the 22d
June the Senate resumed the consideration of il, whereupon
he offered the following resolutions : —
" That the further consideration of the treaty concluded
at London the 19th of November, 1794, be postponed, and
Vol. I.— Fff 18

410 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Agcd 39.
that it be recommended to the President of the United
Stales to proceed without delay to further friendly negotia
tion with his Britannic Majesty, in order to effect alterations
in the said treaty in the following particulars : —
" That the 9th, 10th, and 24lh articles, and so much of
the 25th as relates to the shelter or refuge to be given to the
armed vessels of states or sovereigns at war wilh either
party, be expunged.
" 2d Art. That no privilege or right be allowed lo the
settlers or traders mentioned in the 2d article, other than
those which are secured to them by the treaty of 1783 and
existing laws.
" 3d. Art. That the 3d article be expunged, or be so raod
ified that the citizens of the United Stales may have the use
of all rivers, ports, and places within the territories of his
Britannic Majesty in North Araerica, in the same manner as
his subjects may have of those of the United States.
" 6th Art. That the value of the negroes and other prop
erty carried away contrary lo the 7th article of the treaty of
1783, and the loss and damage sustained hy the United
States by the detention of the posts, be paid for by the
British government — the araount to be ascertained by the
commissioners who may be appointed to liquidate the claims
of fhe British creditors.
" 12th Art. That what relates to the West India trade,
and the provisos and conditions thereof in the 12th article,
be expunged, or be rendered much raore favourable to the
United Stales, and without any restraint on the exportation,
in vessels of the United States, of any articles not the
growth, produce, or manufacture of the said islands of his
Britannic Majesty.
" 15th Art. That no clause be admitted which may re
strain the United States from reciprocating benefits by dis
criminating between foreign nations in their commercial ar
rangements, or prevent them from increasing the tonnage or
other duties on British vessels on terms of reciprocity, or in
a stipulated ratio.

Aged 40.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr, 411
"21st Art. That the subjects or citizens of either party
be not restrained from accepting commissions in the army or
navy of any foreign power."
In 1797, while Colonel Burr was yet a member of the\
United States Senate, his mind was occupied with the pro
ject of a bank, and he conferred with several of his per
sonal friends on the subject. Among others, he wrote the
honourable Thoraas Morris, who was at the tirae a raeraber
of the state Senate. TO THOMAS MORRIS. New-York, 1st February, 1797.
Sir,
I have been informed that the present sheriff of Dutchess
either has resigned or wiU decline a reappointment, and that
Plait Smith is among the candidates. I have very little
personal acquaintance with Mr. Smith — am not, indeed, cer
tain that I should recognise hira if I should raeet hira ; but
I have long known him by reputation, and can assure you
that he is a man of irreproachable character, of independent
property, and much above ordinary in point of intelligence.
His connexions are very infiuential (perhaps the raost so) in
that county. He is, in short, a raan, in ray opinion, every
way qualified to fill the office. Has always been of your
party, and supported Jay's election. , He is withal a gener
ous, manly, independent fellow, of that cast which you like ;
one who will feel sensibly any favours or civilities which
may be done him. If you should not be otherwise pledged,
you will oblige several of your personal friends by support
ing his pretensions.
I have drawn out a plan for a bank, but find that it will
require so many explanations that I forbear to send il. I
perceive that you are about selling our slock in the funds of
the United Slates. We have already talked over this mat
ter. The more I reflect, the stronger appear the objec
tions. It will doubtless be urged in favour of an immediate

412 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 42.
sale, that our funds are in danger of seizure by the United
States. This is a raere bugbear. Such a thing wUl never
again be even proposed, and, if proposed, will never receive
thi-ee votes in the Senate. I hope, therefore, our legislature
will not suffer themselves to be precipitated into this sale
frora any such unfounded apprehensions.
Mr. Belasies, a gentleraan, a raan of education and fortune,
by birth an Englishraan, has come out with his family to
reside in this country. If he should apply for leave to hold
lands in this state, I hope he may be gratified ; from the little
I have seen, and the much I have heard of him, I am per
suaded that he wUl be a valuable acquisition to any state
and lo any society. He is no politician.
I return to-raorrow to Philadelphia, where I shaU remain
for this raonth. May I expect to see you here in the spring ?
Present me raost respectfuUy to WiUiarason, and be assured
of my esteem and attachment. A. Burr.
' In April, 1798, Colonel Burr was elected a raember of
Assembly for the city Emd county of New-York by the de
mocratic parly. This year was marked with more political
virulence than' any other year since the independence of the
country. It was during the year 1798 that the alien and se
dition laws were passed. In the auturan of 1798, Matthew
Lyon, then a representative in Congress frora Verraont, was
endicted for harbouring an intention " to stir up sedition, and
to bring the president and govemment of the United States
into contempt," &c. He was convicted, and the sentence
was — " Matthew Lyon, it is the pleasure of this court that
you be imprisoned four raonths, pay costs, and a fine of one
thousand doUars, and stand committed until the judgraent be
coraplied with." This year the celebrated raission to France,
consisting of Messrs. MarshaU, Pinckney, and Gerry, exci
ted the attention not only of the American people, but of
the civilized world. In short, this year the foundation

Aged 43.] MEMOIRS op aaron burr. 413
was laid for the overthrow of federal power in the United
States. In no section of the country was there more political ex
citement than in NewrYork. Parties were nearly balanced. ;
There were only two banks in the city ; the Bank of New-
York, and the branch of the United States Bank. They
were charged with being infiuenced in their discounts by
political considerations. At all events, they were under the
¦management and control of federalists ; and to counteract
their alleged influence. Colonel Burr was anxious for the
establishraent of a deraocratic institution. With this view
he proposed to obtain a charter for supplying the city with
water ; and as it was certain that if confined to that partic
ular object the stock would not be subscribed, he caused
the application to be made for two millions of doUars, and
inserted a clause in that charter, that the " surplus capital
might be employed in any way not inconsistent with the
laws and constitution of the United States or of the State
of New- York." It is under this clause that the Manhattan
Company use and exercise all the privileges of a bank. The
directors were named in the charter, and a majority of them
were of the democratic parly.
It has been said that the charter was obtained by trick
and management ; and that, if suspicion had been entertained
by any of the federal members. Colonel Burr could not
have got the bill through the legislature. Il is due to him,
so far as it can be justly done, to rescue his meraory from
the imputation of having misrepresented or misstated lo any
member the object he had in view. The facts in reference
to the passage of the charier of the Manhattan Corapany
through the Senate will now be given. The statement is
upon authority that cannot be contradicted.
When the biU had passed the Assembly and was sent to
the Senate, Colonel Burr, during the hours of business, went
into the Senate Chamber, and requested a federal senator
(now living) from the western district to move a reference

414 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 43
of that bill to a select committee, to report complete, which
would supersede the necessity of ils going to a committee
of the whole. The senator repUed, that though he had no
objection to make the experiment, yet that he was persuaded
the raotion would not prevail, because the Senate, not having
a press of business before thera, uniformly refused thus com
mitting biUs to select committees instead of a comraittee of
, the whole. Colonel Burr then suggested, that perhaps if
the raover would intimate, while on the fioor, that the hon
ourable Samuel Jones was contemplated as chairman of that
committee, the confidence which the Senate was known to
repose in him, and in his uniform attention to every thing
relating to the city of New-York, would perhaps induce
the Senate on this occasion to depart from its accustomed
mode of proceeding. Accordingly the motion was made,
and passed without opposition.
The comraittee named by the honourable Stephen Van
Rensselaer, then lieutenant-governor, were Samuel Jones,
^Ambrose Spencer, and Thoraas Morris. It was suggested
to one of these gentleraen that the part of the bill author
izing the eraployment of the surplus capital had belter be
stricken out of it ; in consequence of which that gentleman
applied to Colonel Burr for an explanation on this point.
Mr. Burr promptly and frankly informed the honourable
member, that it not only did authorize, but tbat it was in
tended the directors should use the surplus capital in any
way they thought expedient and proper. That they might
have a bank, an East India Corapany, or any thing else that
\ they deeraed profitable. That the raere supplying the city
' wilh water would not, of itself, remunerate the stockhold
ers. Colonel Burr added, that the senator was at liberty to '
communicate this explanation to other merabers, and that
he had no secrecy on the subject. The bUl was subse
quently reported by Mr. Jones and passed.
This view of the proceedings of the legislature is sus-

Aged 43.] MEMOIRS or aaron burr. 415
tained by what occurred in the Council of Revision, from the
minutes of which an extract has been made.
" At a meeting of the Council of Revision, held at the
City Hall of the City of Albany, on Monday, the 1st of
April, 1799.
" Present — His Excellency the Governor, the Honour
able the Chancellor, the Chief Justice, and Judge Benson.
" Mr. Reynolds and Mr. Robbins, from the honourable the
Asserably, delivered to the council the bill entitled An act
for the relief of John Lansing, the bill entitled An act
for supplying the city of New- York with pure and whole
some water, and the bill entitled An act to amend the stat
ute of limitation, and the biU entitled An act making pro
vision to keep in repair the bridge over Schoharie Creek,
at Fort Hunter, in the county of Montgomery.
" The council proceeded to take the said bills into con
sideration, and thereupon
" Resolved, That the bill entitled An act for supplying
the city of New-York with pure and wholesome water be
committed to the honourable the Chief Justice ; that the bill
entitled An act to amend the statute of limitation be com
mitted to the honourable the Chancellor."
" At a meeting of the Council of Revision, held at the
City Hall of the City of Albany, on Tuesday, the 2d of
April, 1799.
" Present — His Excellency the Governor, the Honour
able the Chancellor, the Chief Justice, and Judge Benson.
" The honourable the Chief Justice, to whom was cora
raitted the biU entitied An act for supplying the city of
New-York with pure and wholesome water, reported the
following objections, to wit :
" Because the biU creates a corporation, with a capital of
two raiUions of doUars, vested with the unusual power to
divert its surplus capital to the purchase of pubUc or other

416 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Agcd 43.
Stock, or any other moneyed transactions or operations not
inconsistent with the constitution and laws of this state or
of the United States, and which surplus may be applied
to the purposes of trade, or any other purpose which the
very comprehensive terms in which the clause is conceived
may warrant ; this, in the opinion of the council as a novel
experiment, the result whereof as lo its influence on the
community must be merely speculative and uncertain, pe
culiarly requires the application of the policy which has
heretofore uniformly obtained, that the powers of corpora
tions relative to their money operations should be of limit
ed instead of perpetual duration."
" The council proceeded lo take the preceding objections
into consideration, which were overruled ; it was thereupon
" Resolved, That it does not appear iraproper to the coun
cil that ihe said bill, entitled An act for supplying the city
of New-York luith pure and wholesome water, should be
come a law of this state.
" Ordered, That the honourable the Chancellor deliver a
copy of the preceding resolution, signed by his excellency
the Govemor, lo the honourable the Assembly."
" State of New-York, Secretary's Office.
" I certify the preceding to be true extracts from the min
utes of the Council of Revision of this state.
(Signed) " Archd. Campbell,
" Deputy Secretary.
"Albany, April 29th, 1836."
/¦ Of the correctness of the above statement, and the fair
ness of Mr. Burr's conduct in " relation to the Manhattan
Company, there cannot be the shadow of a doubt ; but il is
probable that a large portion of the raerabers never atterapt
ed lo examine into the extent of the powers granted to the
Manhattan Company ; while another portion considered the
project of Colonel Burr, in reference to an East India Com-

Aged 43.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 417
pany or a bank, as chimerical and visionary. It is, how
ever, evident that no trick or misrepresentation was prac
tised to procure the passage of the bill ; unless, indeed, his
silence on the floor of the house as to his ulterior views
may be so construed. His object was a bank ; and when
appealed lo on this particular point, he admitted the fact.
Al all other times he remained silent on the subject. When
the bill had passed he was lauded by the democratic party
for his address, and they rejoiced in his success. Its po
litical effect was considered highly important, as it tended
to break down a system of pecuniary favouritism, which was
raade to operate in support of the party in power. ^
During the summer of 1799 vague rumours were pri-^
vately circulated respecting certain transactions of Colonel
Burr with the Holland Land Company. It was whispered
that a bond, vvhich the corapany held against him for
twenty thousand dollars, had been given up for secret ser
vices rendered them. In other circles it vvas hinted that
the compensation was for procuring the passage of a bill
through the legislature authorizing aliens to hold lands, &c.
Connected wilh these rumours, John B. Church, Esq. had
spoken with so much freedora as to produce a challenge
from Colonel Burr. On the 2d of Septeraber, 1799, the
parlies raet at Hoboken, and having exchanged a shot
without effect, Mr. Church raade the amende honorable,
and the affair was so satisfactorily adjusted as to restore
the social intercourse of these gentleraen. Mr. Church
was attended by Abijah Hararaond, Esq., and Colonel Burr
by Judge Edanus Burke, of Soulh Carolina.
On the ground a raost ludicrous incident occurred. Pre
vious lo leaving the city of New-York, Colonel Burr pre
sented to Judge Burke his pistol-case. He explained to
the judge that the balls were cast intentionally too small ;
that chamois leather was cut lo the proper size to put
round them, but that the leather raust be greased (for
which purpose grease was placed in the case), or that
Vol. I.— Ggg 18*

418 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 43.
there would be a difficulty in getting the ball home. After
the parties had taken their stand. Colonel Burr noticed the
judge hamraering the ramrod with a stone, and irarae
diately, suspected the cause. When the pistol was handed
hira by his friend, he drew the ramrod, and ascertained that
the ball was not horae, and so informed the judge ; to
which Mr. Burke replied, " I forgot to grease the leather ;
but you see he is ready, don't keep him waiting ; just take
a crack as it is, and I'll grease the next .'" Colonel Burr
bowed courteously, but made no reply, and discharged his
pistol in the state it had been given to hira. The anec
dote for some time after was the subject of merriment
among those who had heard it.
No explanation was ever given, it is believed, of the
-transactions between Colonel Burr and the Holland Land
Company. It was his practice to let his actions speak for
theraselves, and to let the world construe thera as they
pleased. This was a great error, and was the source in
after life of much trouble and suffering to him, yet he
^ would not depart from it. A few weeks subsequent to
this duel, however, he received from a friend a kind letler,
asking confidentially an explanation of these transactions,
to which he replied.

colonel burr to

New- York, 6th October, 1799.
Dear Sir,
I cannot refuse to the manner of your request, nor to
the friendly motives which have produced il, to satisfy
your inquiries wilh regard to Witbeck's bond and the Hol
land Company.
In December, 1795 or 1796, I forget which, I entered
into a covenant with the Holland Company for the pur
chase of one hundred thousand acres of land, al twelve
shiUings per acre, payable by instalments. The covenant
contained a penalty of twenty thousand doUars; as secu-

Aged 43.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 419
rity on my part for this penalty, in case il should become
due, I mortgaged to Cazenove, or the Holland Company,
twenty thousand acres of land in Presque Isle, being one
hundred shares of two hundred acres each in the Popula
tion Corapany, and I assigned to him Thomas L. Witbeck's
bond, payable to rae, for twenty thousand dollars, as further
collateral security.
In the fall of 1797 Cazenove joined with rae in a power
of attorney to Jaraes Wadsworth, then in Europe, for the
sale of one hundred thousand acres, and, until the suramer
or fall of the year following, we had reason lo believe that
they were or would be sold, which of course would have
terminated all questions about the penalty. Some time
in the year 1797 or 1798, it was noised in Albany that
Thomas L. Witbeck had given a bond for twenty thousand
dollars, and his credit at the bank and elsevvhere became
affected by il. He wrote me often on the subject. In re
ply, I begged him to explain that the bond was not for the
payment of raoney, and that, even if it should become for
feited, the twenty thousand acres of Presque Isle lands
were alone a sufficient security. Witbeck, however, con
tinued to be uneasy for his credit, and teased rae to take up
his bond by giving other security. I thought this rather
unkind, and did not trouble rayself about it. Indeed, I
was in hopes that the sale of the land in Europe would
have closed the transaction. Not long after this, I think in
November last, Cazenove informed rae that he had been
applied lo by Witbeck to change that security, and added
that he was wiUing to change it for one of equal solidity,
provided it would not impair his rights.
Witbeck's importunities continued, and he became s^
very urgent and repealed that I was finally (Novembei^
last), long after the passing of the alien bill, induced to offer
A. I. Frederick Prevost's bond in the place of Witbeck's.
Cazenove took time to consider and inquire ; and finding, m
fact, that Prevost's bond was a much better one than Wit-

420 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 43,
beck's, agreed to take it. Prevost accordingly executed to
me a bond for twenty thousand doUars, of which Harrison
drew a special assignraent to the HoUand Company. We
raade a raemorandura that this exchange should not vary
the rights of the parlies (viz., the Holland Company and
Aaron Burr), and Thomas L. Witbeck's bond was given
up. In this transaction I never suspected that Cazenove
imagined that he was doing a favour either to me or Tho
mas L. Witbeck, and I ara confident that he never enter
tained so absurd a belief. It was with great reluctance
that I gave Prevost's bond. I had claims on Witbeck
which justified rae in exposing him lo some hazard. Pre
vost had a family, a clear, independent estate, and did not
owe a cent in the world ; but he had better nerves than Wit
beck, and vvould not lease rae.
About this time we leamed that all prospect of seUing
the land in Europe had failed, and as I never had an expec
tation of paying except from the land itself, il became ne
cessary lo close the transaction. It should be observed, that
soon after ray contract wilh Cazenove he received orders, as
he inforraed rae, to sell no more under sixteen shillings (two
dollars), and afterward I understood that he had raised the
•price to twenty shillings. In December last we had several
conferences for the purpose of settling this business. I of
fered lo give back the land and cancel the covenants. He
talked of the penalty. I replied that he would only recover
the damages sustained, which, by his own account, were
nothing ; for, as the price of the land was raised to twenty
shillings, the Holland Corapany would, by their own esti
raation, gain one hundred thousand dollars by taking back
the land. He appeared to feel the unreasonableness of his
demand, and finally evaded ray proposal by questioning his
own authority. This I considered as a pretence ; sorae ir
ritation ensued, and we parted without concluding any thing.
Thus the matter reraained until May last (1799), when
our negotiations were renewed. After various overtures

Aged 43.] MEMOIRS of aj^ron burr. 421
and propositions on either side, it was at length agreed that
I should convey to the HoUand Company, absolutely, the
twenty thousand acres Presque Isle lands. That this should
be received in discharge of the advances that Cazenove had
made thereon, and in fuU satisfaction of all damages claim
ed on the covenants ; and that thereupon the covenants
should be cancelled, the bond of I. A. Frederick Prevost be
given up, and the Holland Corapany take back their lands.
This was accordingly done a few days before Cazenove
sailed for Europe, which was, I ihink, in June last.
I should have noted, that about the year 1792 or 1793, I
becarae jointly concerned with the HoUand Corapany and
sundry individuals in the purchase frora the Slate of Penn
sylvania of the whole Presque Jsle angle, and of other lands
adjoining lo the amount of a miUion of acres. The asso
ciation was called the Population Company, and was under
the manageraent of directors, who had a right to assess on
the proprietors or associates any sums they might think
proper lo promote the settlements required by the patents.
My interest was one hundred shares, or twenty thousand
acres, for which I had paid, at the time I mortgaged to Caz
enove, upwards of seven thousand five hundred dollars.
The thing was considered as extremely valuable, and I have
no doubt but my interest would, if I could have retained it
five years, have been worth to rae more than one hundred
thousand dollars. Lands wiihin the angle were last year
sold al twenty dollars per acre.
Though it be obvious that no damages were due or could
have been recovered by the Holland Company pn the pen
alty coniained in the covenants, yet I had several motives lo
urge me to some sacrifice in order lo get rid of the busi
ness. First. I could not repay the advances made by Caz
enove, which araounted to several thousand dollars. Second.
I could not bear to give any uneasiness to Frederick Pre
vost, which might have been the consequence of a legal pro
ceeding. Third. I was a Uttie apprehensive of being sued

428 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 43.
on the covenants for payraent of the purchase money. Caz
enove, on his part, had but a single raotive, to wil — he found
that these lands were all I had to give, and that a suit would
have produced only expense.
The aforegoing facts are substantially known to Le Roy,
Bayard, and McEvers, and to Harrison and Ogden. The
two last were consulted on the closing of the business in
May and June last (1799). The forraer of thera, Harrison,
several tiraes on the exchange of the bonds. I have not
spoken to either of those gentleraen on the subject since the
transactions took place ; but any person is al liberty to do it
who may choose to take the trouble.
I have given you a summary of my whole concern with
Cazenove and the Holland Company, not knowing what part
of it might tend to elucidate your inquiries.
By those who know rae, it will never be credited that any
man on earth would have the hardiness even to propose to
me dishonourable compensations ; but this apart, the absirr-
dity of the calumny you allude to is obvious from the fol
lowing data, resulting from the deeds and known facts :
That at the time the Alien BUl was under consideration,
and long after, the bond, the covenant, and the penally were
objects of no concern, as we had reason to believe that the
lands were or would be sold in Europe, so as to leave me a
profit :
That Witbeck's bond was never given up, but exchanged
for one raore safe and valuable :
That I had not, nor by possibUity could have, any inter
est in this exchange, as it was relieving one friend to involve
another still more dear to me :
That, so far frora any understanding between Cazenove
and me, we had controversies about the very bond and pen
alty for more than a year after the passing of. the Alien
Bill :
That no part of the penally was ever due from me to the
HoUand Company ; and that of course, they could never

Aged 44.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 423
have demanded the bond, which was expressly a security
for the penalty, and not for the payments :
That nevertheless I did finaUy give Cazenove a valuable
and exorbitant compensation to induce him to cancel the
covenants and discharge the penalty.
This, sir, is the first time in my life that I have conde
scended (pardon the expression) to refute a calumny. I
leave to ray actions to speak for theraselves, and to ray char
acter to confound the fictions of slander. And on this very
subject I have not up to this hour given one word of expla
nation to any human being. All the explanation that can be
given amounts to no more than this — That the thing is an
absolute and abominable lie. I feel that the present detail
is useless and trifling ; but you have asked with good-na
ture, and I could not, with the appearance of good-nature,
refuse. I pardon you the labour I have had in writing, and
for that which you will have in reading no apology can be
due from Your friend and obedient servant, A. Burr.
In January, 1801, Colonel Burr's daughter Theodosia
was married to Joseph Alston, Esq., of South Carolina. Mr.
Alston was in his twenty-second. Miss Burr in her eigh
teenth year. He was a gentleman of talents and fortune, and
a few years after his raarriage was chosen governor. Sorae
opinion of his style of writing may be formed by his de
fence of early marriages ; whUe that portion of his letter
which relates to his native stale cannot be uninteresting to
South Carolinians. THEODOSIA BURR TO JOSEPH ALSTON.
New-York, January 13th, 1801.
I have already written to you by the post to tell you that
I shaU be happy to see you ivhenever you choose; that I
suppose is equivalent to very soon ; and - that you may no

424 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 44.
longer feel doubts or suspicions on my accoimt, I repeat
the invitation by a packet as less dilatory than the maU ; but
for all these doubts and suspicions I will take ample re
venge when we meet.
I yesterday received your leiter of the 26th of Deceraber,
and ara expecting your defence of early raarriages to-day.
My father laughs at my impatience to hear from you, and
says I am in love ; but I do not believe that to be a fair de
duction, for the post is really very irregular and slow — enough
so to provoke anybody.
We leave this for Albany on the 26th inst., and shaU re
main there till the 10th February. My moveraents will af
ter that depend upon my father and you. I had intended
not to marry this twelvemonth, and in that case thought it
wrong lo divert you from your present engageraents in Ca
rolina ; but lo your solicitations I yield ray judgment. Adieu.
I wish you many returns of the century. 14th January.
I have not yet received your promised letler ; but I hope
it may be long in proportion to the lime I have been expect
ing it. The packet has been delayed by head-winds, but
now that they are fair she will have a quick passage ; at
least such I wish it. Adieu, encore.
Theodosia.
joseph alston to theodosia burr.
Charleston, S. C. December 28th, 180O.
Aristotle says " that a man should not raarry before he is
six-and-thirty :" pray, Mr. Alston, what arguments have you
to oppose lo such authority ? Hear rae. Miss Burr.
Il has always been ray practice, whether frora a natural
independence of raind, from pride, or what other cause I
will not pretend to say, never to adopt the opinion of any
one, however respectable his authority, unless thoroughly
convinced by his arguraents ; the " ipse dixit," as logicians

Aged 44.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 425
term it, even of Cicero, who stands higher in my estimation
than any other author, would not have the least weight with
me ; you must therefore, till you offer belter reasons in sup
port of his opinion than the Grecian sage himself has done,
excuse my differing frora him.
Objections to early marriages can rationally only arise
from want of discretion or want of fortune in the parties ;
now, as you very well observe, the age of discretion is
wholly uncertain, some men reaching it at twenty, others at
thirty, some again not till fifty, and many not at all; of
course, to fix such or such a period as the proper one for
marrying, is ridiculous. Even the want of fortune is to be
considered differently, according to the country where the
marriage is to lake place ; for though in some places a for
tune is absolutely necessary to a man before he marries,
there are others, as in the eastern states for example, where
he marries expressly for the purpose of making a fortune.
But, aUowing bolh these objections their full force, raay
there not be a single case that they do not reach ? Suppose
{for instance, merely) a young raan nearly two-and-twenty,
already of the greatest discretion, with an ample fortune,
were lo be passionately in love with a young lady almost
eighteen, equally discreet with himself, and who had a " sin
cere friendship" for him, do you think it would be necessary
to make him wait lUl thirty ? particularly where the friends
on bolh sides were pleased with the match. t
Were I to consider the question personally, since you
aUow that " individual character" ought to be consulted, no
objection clearly could be made to my marrying early.
From my father's plan of education for me, I may
properly be caUed a hot-bed plant. Introduced from ray
infancy into the society of men, whUe yet a boy I was ac
customed to think and act like a man. On every occasion,
however iraportant, I was left to decide for rayself; I do not
recoUect a single instance where I was controUed even by
advice; for it was my feather's invariable maxim, that tho
ToL. I.— H h h

426 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 44.
best way of strengthening the judgment was to suffer it to
be constantly exercised. Before seventeen I finished my
college educatioh; before twenty I was admitted to the
bar. Since that lime I have been constantly travelling
through different parts of the United States ; lo what pur
pose I leave you to deterraine.
From this short account of myself you raay judge whether
ray manners and sentiments are not, by this tirae, in some
degree formed.
But let us treat the subject abstractedly ; and, as we have
shown that under particular circumstances no disadvantages
result from early raarriages, let us see if any positive advan
tages attend thera.
Happiness in the marriage stale, you will agree with rae,
can only be obtained frora the raost coraplete congeniality
of raind and disposition, and the raost exact similarity of
habits and pursuits ; now, though their natures raay gener
ally resemble, no two persons can be entirely of the same
mind and disposition, the same, habits and pursuits, unless
after the most intimate and early association ; I say early,
for it is in youth only the mind and disposition receive the
complexion we would give thera ; it is then only that our
habits are raoulded or our pursuits dfrected as we please ;
as we advance in life they becorae fixed and unchangeable,
and instead of our governing- thera, govem us. Is it not
therefore better, upon every principle of happiness, that per
sons should raarry young, when, directed by mutual friend
ship, each might assimilate to the other, than wail till a
period when their passions, their prejudices, their habits, &c.
become so rooted that there neither exists an inclination nor
power to correct thera ? Dr. Franklin, a very strong advo
cate for ray system, and, I think, at least as good authority
as Arislotie, very aptly compares those who marry early to
two young trees joined together by the hand of the gardener ;
" Trunk knit with trank, and branch vrith branch intwined,
Advancing still, more closely they are join'd ;

Aged 44.] MEMOIRS of aaron burr. 427
At length, full grown, no difference we see,
But, 'stead of two, behold a single tree !"*
Those, on the other hand, who do not marry till late, say
" thirty," for example, he likens to two ancient oaks ;
" Use all your force, they yield not to your hand.
But firmly in their usual stations stand ;
While each, regai'dless of the other's views.
Stubborn and fix'd, it's natural bent pursues !"+
But this is not all ; it is in youth that we are best fitted to
enjoy that exquisite happiness which the marriage state is
capable of affording, and the reraerabrance of which forms
so pleasing a link in that chain of friendship that binds to
each other tvvo persons who have lived together any num
ber of years. Our ideas are then more refined ; every gen
erous and disinterested sentiment beats higher ; and our sen
sibility is far raore alive to every emotion our associate may
feel. Depend upon it, the raan who does not love till
" thirty" will never, never love ; long before that period, he
will become too much enamoured of h.'s own dear self to
think of transferring his affections to any other object. He
may marry, but interest alone will direct him in the choice
of his wife ; far from regarding her as the sweetest friend
and companion of his life, he will consider her but as an
unavoidable encumbrance upon the estate she brings him.
And can you really hope, my Theodosia, with all your in
genuity, to convince me that such a being will enjoy equal
happiness in marriage with rae '> with me, about to enter
into il with such rapture ; who anticipate so perfect a heaven
from our uniting in every study, improving our minds to
gether, and informing each other by our mutual assistance
and observations ? No — I give you fuU credit for your tal
ents, but there are sorae causes so bad that even you can
not support them.
Enough, however, of this topic till we meet; I have
already given you a volurae of nonsense upon it.
» Manuscript poem of my own. t From the same.

428 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 44.
Now for the fable, I cannot call it description, your
"dear friends" have given you of this state. " The coun
try," they say, because of the marshy grounds, " is rendered
continually unhealthy with fever and agues." One would
reaUy conclude frora this that we were a good representa
tion of a meeting of Shaking Quakers. Alas ! beautiful
and romantic hiUs of Carolina, which the delighted traveller
so often stops lo admire ; fair and fertile plains interspersed
with groves of the orange, the lemon, and the rayrtle, which
fiing such healthful fragrance to the air, where are ye fled ?
Has some earthquake, some sudden and dreadful concus
sion of nature, ingulfed you ? No ! You still remain for
the delight and ornament of our country ; you have lost
existence only in the imagination of sorae beau or beUe of
New- York ; who, ignorant of the geography and appear
ance of the most celebrated states, believes every other
place except the Park and the Battery a desert or a raarsh.
But let us proceed : — " As to Charleston, an annual epi
demic, jomed to the yells of whipped negroes, vvhich assail
your ears frora every house, and the extrerae heat, raake it
a perfect purgatory !" What ! is Charleston, the raost de
lightfully situated city in Araerica, which, entirely open to
the ocean, twice in every twenty-four hours is cooled by
the refreshing Seabreeze, the MontpeUer of the south, which
annually affords an asylura to the planter and the West-
Indian frora every disease, accused of heal and unhealthi-
ness ? — Island of Calypso, where reigned perpetual spring !
may we not, after this, expect thy flower-enamelled fields
to be raetamorphosed into dreary wastes of snow, and the
sweet concerts of the feathered choir, which elysionized
thy woods, converted into the howling of the tiger, or the
horrid bark of the wolf? But this is not all, imfortunate
citizens of Charleston ; your disposition has been even still
more outraged than your climate. Your mildness, huraan
ity, and benevolence, are no raore ; craelty, barbarity, a
sanguinary love of torture, are now your distinguishing

Aged 44.] MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR 429
characteristics ; the scream, the yell of the miserable, un
resisting African, bleeding under the scourge of relentless
power, affords music to your ears ! Ah ! from what un
friendly cause does this arise ? Has the God of heaven, in
anger, here changed the order of nature ? In every other
region, without exception, in a similar degree of latitude,
the same sun which ripens the taraarind and the anana,
ameliorates the temper, and disposes it to gentleness and
kindness. In India and other countries not very different
in climate from the southern parts of the United Stales, the
inhabitants are distinguished for a softness and inoffensive-
ness of manners, degenerating almost to effeminacy ; it is
here then, only, that we are exempt frora the general influ
ence of climate : here only that, in spite of it, we are cruel
and ferocious ! Poor Carolina !
" The slate of society, too, is equally inviting. The men
and woraen associate very little ; the forraer employ them
selves either in the business of life, or in hunting, horse-
racing, and garaing ; while the latter meet in large parties,
coraposed entirely of themselves, to sip lea and look prim !"
Would a stranger who had been among us, who had wit
nessed the polished state of our society, the elegance of
our parties, the ease and sociability of maimers which pre
vail there, the constant and agreeable intercourse between
the sexes, the accomplishments of our ladies, that proud
and elevated spirit among the raen which would feel " a
stain like a wound," believe the account you have written
meant as a picture of Soulh Carolina ? Would he believe,
still further, that it was drawn by an American ? No. He
would suppose it the production of some jaundiced foreign
er, who had never visited us, and who set down every
thing out of his own country as rude and Gothic. Now I
recollect Morse gives a description something like this of
North Carolina ; and I suspect your " friends" stole their
account, with a Uttie exaggeration, from him, but mistook
the state.

430 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 44.
I have now replied to the fable of your " dear friends" in
a veritable style ; but, setting aside rhapsody, if you have
time lo read il, I will give you a proper and impartial
account of our country in a few words. Possibly il may
serve to arause you, if still confined by your ankle.
For about sixty or seventy miles from the seacoast, the
land is, perhaps, raore uninterruptedly level than any equal
tract of territory in the United States ; from that distance it
gradually becoraes raore hilly, till, as you advance into the
interior, you become entangled in that chain of mountains
which, rising in the back parts of Pennsylvania, runs
through that state, touches a corner of Maryland, and, ex
tending through North Carolina, South Carolina, and Geor
gia, forms a line between the Atlantic and transatlantic
states. In upper Carolina it is as healthy as anywhere on
the continent. The people are robust, active, and have a
colour as fine as those of Rhode Island. In the low coun
try, it is true, we are visited by "the fevers and agues" you
mention, but it is only at a particular season, and neeir the
banks of the rivers. In this we are by no means singular ;
those who reside on the borders of the lakes, the Connecti
cut, the Delaware, and the Potomac, are equally exposed.
On the seacoast we again find health ; Charleston, till wiihin
a few years past, was remarkably healthy. Since '93 il has
been afflicted, al different tiraes, during the suramer, with an
epidemic, which has certainly proved extremely fatal ; but
ought it to be called an " annual visitant" here any more
than at Boston, New- York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, &c.,
all of which places have been equally, and some of them
raore, afflicted by it ?
With regard to our manners ; if there is any slate which
has a claim to superior refinement, it is certainly South
Carolina. Generally speaking, we are divided into but
two classes, very rich and very poor ; which, if no advan
tage in a political view, is undoubtedly favourable to a
polished state of society. Our gentlemen having large for-

Aged 44.]' MEMOIRS OP aaron burr. 431
tunes, and being very Uttie disposed by the cUmate to the
drudgery of business or professions, have fuU leisure for
the attainment of poUle literature, and what are usually
called accoraplishraents ; you therefore raeet with few of
thera who are not tolerably well informed, agreeable com
panions, and completely well bred. The possession of
slaves renders them proud, impatient of restraint, and gives
them a haughtiness of raanner which, to those unaccus
tomed to them, is disagreeable ; but we find among them a
high sense of honour, a delicacy of sentiment, and a liber
ality of raind, which we look for in vain in the raore cora
raercial citizens of the northern slates. The genius of the
Carolinian, like the inhabitants of all southern countries, is
quick, lively, and acute ; in steadiness and perseverance he
is naturally inferior to the native of the north ; but this de
fect of climate is often overcome by his ambition or neces
sity; and, whenever this happens, he seldom fails lo dis
tinguish himself. In his temper he is gay and fond of
company, open, generous, and unsuspicious ; easily irrita
ted, and quick to resent even the appearance of insult ; but
his passion, like the fire of the flint, is lighted up and ex
tinguished in the same raoraent. I do not raention his hos
pitality and kindness to strangers, for they are so common
they are no longer esteemed virtues ; like coraraon honesty,
they are noticed only when not possessed. Nor is it for
the elegance of their raanners only that the South Caro
linians are distinguished; sound morality is equally con
spicuous among them. Gaming, so far from being a fash
ionable vice, is confined entirely to the lower class of peo
ple ; among gentlemen it is deemed disgraceful. Many of
them, it is true, are fond of the turf; but they pursue the
sports of it merely as an amusement and recreation, not a
business. As lo hunting, the country gentleraen occasion
ally engage in it, but surely there is nothing criminal in
this ! From my education and other pursuits I have sel-

432 MEMOIRS OF AARON BURR. [Aged 44.
dom participated in it myself; but I consider it, above aU
exercises, the most manly and healthful.
But corae, let us dismiss the gentlemen and their amuse
ments, and take up the female part of the coraraunity.
The ladies of Carolina, I confess, are not generally as
handsome as those of the northern slates ; they want that
bloom which, in the opinion of some, is so indispensable an
ingredient in beauty; but their paleness gives them an ap
pearance of delicacy and languor which is highly interest
ing. Their education is perhaps raore attended to than
anywhere else in the United States ; many of thera are weU
informed, all of them accomplished. For it would be far
raore unpardonable in a girl to enter a roora or go through
a Congo ungracefully, than to be ignorant of the raost com
mon event in history or the first principles of arithmetic.
They are perfectly easy and agreeable in their manners,
and remarkably fond of corapany ; no Charleston beUe ever
fell " ennui" in her life. In the richness of their dress and
the splendour of their equipages they are unrivaUed. From
their early introduction into company, and their constant
and unreserved intercourse with the other sex, they gener
ally raarry young ; and if their husbands want only corapan
ions for the theatre or the concerl-roora, or some one to talk
over the scandal of the day wilh when al horae, they make
tolerable wives. As we have now brought them to the
" ne plus ultra" of huraan happiness, raarriage, we will leave
them there, and so finish our description.
The reason of your not hearing from rae so long after
your return to New- York was this : not knowing till you
wrote rae frora Ballston how my letters would be received,
I was really afraid to venture writing.
You ask how Miss P. walks ? If it is your object, as
you say, from knowing how you stand wilh her in point of
forces, lo preserve better what you have won, receive a
general lesson. " Continue in every respect exactly as you
are, and you please me most."

Aged 44.J MEMOIRS or aaron BuiiR. 433
You wish me to acquire French. I already understand
something of il, and, wilh a little practice, would soon speak
it. I promise you, therefore, if you become my instructress,
hi less than two months after our marriage to converse with
you entirely in that language. I fix the period after our
marriage, for I cannot think of being corrected in the mis
takes I may make by any other person than my wife. Sup
pose, till then, you return to your Latin, and prepare to use
that tongue with me, since you are averse to one understood
by all the canaille. Adieu. I have UteraUy given you a
foUo volume. Yours, my dear Theodosia, Jos. Alston.
P. S. The arrangement you speak of proposing in your,
letter for an interview has determined me. I shall there
fore sail certainly in a few days. Winds be propitious !
Miss Burr.
In April, 1799, the federal parly were triumphant in the
Stale of New- York. The city was entitled to thfrteen
members of Assembly. They were federalists, and were
elected by an average majority of 944 ; the whole number
of votes being about 6000. Colonel Burr during this year
was not in public life, but he was not an idle- spectator of
passing events. The year following a President of the
United States was to be elected. It was how certain, that
unless the vote of the State of New-York could be obtained
for Mr. Jefferson, he could not be elected. It was equally
certain, that unless the city could be carried by the demo
cratic party, the state would remain in the hands of the fed
eralists. During the winter of 1799 and the spring of 1800, Col
onel Burr -jioramenced a systera of party organization for
the approacking contest. The presidential electors were at
that time chosen by the legislature, meeting in joint baUot.
His first object was to secure such a committee of nomination
Vol. L— I i i 19

484 MEMOIRS OP AARON BURR. [Aged 44.
for the city and county of New-York as, in the selection of
candidates for the assembly, would be infiuenced by his rec
ommendation. His opinion, often expressed to his confiden-
ftial friends during the winter of 1800, was, that without a
-most powerful ticket there was no prospect of success ; with
such a ticket and proper exertions il could be elected. He
entertained no doubt (and the result proved that he was cor
rect), that on the city and county of New-York were sus
pended the destinies of the country, whether for good or
whether for ill. These views and these opinions were pre
sented and enforced by him for days, and weeks, and
raonths previous to the election upon all the young and ar
dent politicians of the city wilh whom he had any inter
course. The effect of which was, that when the crisis ar
rived, every member of the party seemed to feel the great
responsibility which rested upon him.
The next object with Colonel Burr was lo inculcate har
mony in the party and concert in action. It was known
that a most unconquerable jealousy existed between the
Clinton and Livingston families and the adherents of those
factions. The Glintons and their supporters were anti-fed
eralists. The Livingstons were not less distinguished as
federalists, until sorae tirae after the organization of the gen
eral government under the new constitution. Colonel Burr
enforced, in mUd and persuasive terras, the necessity of sac
rificing all prejudices and partiaUlies ; of surrendering aU
personal and ambitious considerations ; of standing shoul
der to shoulder, and uniting in one great effort to rescue the
country from misrule. By the most unceasing perseverance
he succeeded in both these objects.
Every section of the democratic party felt the necessity
of Colonel Bun-'s being a member of the legislature that
was lo choose the electors ; but a difficulty arose. It was
imderstood that General Harailton would personally attend
the several polls during the three days of election ; that he
would counsel and advise with his political friend.s, and Oiai

Age444.j MEMOIRS oP aaron burr. 485
he would address the people. Here again all seemed to
feel that Colonel Burr was the man, and perhaps the only
man, to raeet General Harailton on such an occasion. But
if his name vvas on the Assembly ticket as a candidate, his
personal exertions during the election vvould be lost to the
party. To place him in thai situation appeared to many like
abandoning the field without a struggle to the federaUsts. In
this dilemma, the county of Orange patriotically carae for
ward and nominated him as a candidate on their Asserably
ticket, thus leaving him free lo act in the city of New-York ;
and by the people of Orange Colonel Burr was elected a
member of the legislature.
All the details connected with the formation of the Asr
sembly ticket in April, 1800, for the city and county of
New- York, wiU be given hereafter. The result is known.
Il succeeded. The legislature was democratic. Presiden- j
tial electors of the deraocratic party were appointed. Col
onel Burr's services were appreciated by the democracy in
every section of the country, and he was nominated on the
ticket with Mr. Jefferson for the offices of President and
Vice President of the United States. By the constitution,
as il was originally adopted, the person -who had the great
est number of voles, provided ihey vvere a majority of the
whole number given, was president ; and the person having
the next highest number, with the like proviso, was vice-
president. When the ballots were examined, it appeared
that Mr. Jefferson and Colonel Burr were the two highest
candidates, and that their voles were equal. By the pro
visions of the constitution, it devolved upon the House of
Representatives of the United Stales, voting by states, .to
designate which of these gentlemen should be president,
and which vice-president.
On proceeding to the baliol a contest ensued, wliic'?i lasted
for several days, producing the most implacable and bitter
animosities ; a contest which terminated in the election ofi
Mr. Jefferson and the ruin of Colonel Burr. Until within

436 MEMOIRS or aaron burr [Agea 44
a few years that scene has been corapletely enveloped in
mystery. A part of the incidents connected with it, how
ever, in a fugitive form, are before the world. But the pe
riod has arrived when the question should be raet with manly
firmness ; when the voice of history should announce to
posterity the trath, the whole truth, and nothing but the
truth, so far as it can be ascertained. The generation which
were the actors in those scenes have passed away. The
parties iraraediately interested are sleeping the sleep of
death. Few, very few indeed now living, understand the
nature of that contest. The curtain shall be drawn aside.
The docuraents which develop its character, and which are
scattered in fragments, will be brought, together, and re
corded (it is hoped) in a permanent and tangible form.
It will be seen that the immediate friends and- advisers of
Mr. Jefferson, until within a few hours of the balloting, had
no confidence in certain leading and distinguished members
of Congress, whose names shall be given, but who, on his
cpming into power, promptly received the raost substantial
evidence of his kind feelings by appointmeiLts to office. The
clearest evidence will be presented that Mr. Jefferson en
tered into terms and conditions with the federal party or
some of their leaders ; that the honourable James A. Bayard,
of Delaware, acted on the part of the federalists, and the
honourable Samuel Smith, of Maryland, at present mayor
of Baltimore, on the part of Mr. Jefferson ; and that terms
and conditions were agreed upon betv?een them before Mr.
Jefferson could be elected ; while, on the other hand, it
will be demonstrated that the charges which have been made
against Colonel Burr of having intrigued and negotiated with
the federal party to obtain the office of president were as
unjust as they were groundless. But " I come to bury
Cesar, not to^praise him."

\.f-l '¦n'SD OP VOL. I.

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