[Copy N° date Aug 6. 1790 General Hamilton to Brig. d: Gen: Dayton] [Endorsement, bottom right:] [6 aug: 1790 / a [undecipherable] / [undecipherable] Dayton / aug 6 / 1790] [fo only 40.] [(Copy collated)] [undecipherable] New York August 6. 1790 My dear Sir I received at Philadelphia your letter of the 27 of July. the answer to which has been delayed by excessive occupation. You know, I trust, sufficiently my sentiments of you, not to need being told how much pleasure your appointment gave me, and how highly I value the confidence you express in me. It will probably be unexpected to you to be told that I am not yet in the exercise of the Military functions of my Office - and that my participation in the preliminary arrangements is only occasional and very limited. Such however is the course of the Plan which has been adopted by the Executive. But I have notwithstanding had conversations with the Secretary at War on the points you mention, and to the extent of my opportunity have endeavored to promote a right direction. — You no doubt have before this received a letter from the Secretary on the Subject of [undecipherable: probable reading proper] characters for Officers. It seemed to be determined in his mind to appoint Col. Aaron Ogden to the command of a Regiment. Every body must consider him as a great acquisition in this Station. The part of your letter which respects him, announcing the certainty of his acceptance, was particularly grateful to me. — Inclos'd you will receive the Instructions for the Recruiting Service, which were previously prepared by the Secretary at War. - I made such remarks upon them as hastily occurred - Examine them carefully and Suggest to me whatever amendments or additions may present themselves to you. You will oblige me by free communication at all times Yours truly I remain Your friend & best Servant A Hamilton Brigadier General Dayton E Town