J.M. Mason: "An Oration, Commemorative of the Late Major-General Alexander Hamilton"

Alexander Hamilton
New York, NY, July 31, 1804

J.M. Mason: "An Oration, Commemorative of the Late Major-General Alexander Hamilton"
Pamphlet/Booklet

J.M. Mason: "An Oration, Commemorative of the Late Major-General Alexander Hamilton." New York: Hopkins and Seymour, 1804. First edition. Disbound, 40pp, 8vo (5.125" x 8.375"). Funeral orations for Alexander Hamilton "Pronounced Before The New-York State Society of the Cincinnati, on Tuesday, the 31st of July, 1804." With the text of his will and an explanation of his motives for confronting Aaron Burr appended, including his intention to "throw away [his] first fire." Listed in Sabin (45460). Ex. Library copy, stamped "Duplicate" on verso of title. Light damp staining along very edges, most evident on exterior pages. With loss to bottom corner of two sheets (pp 33-36) well away from any text.

Immediately following the text of Hamilton's will is a statement prepared by him addressed to his Executors in the event of his death. He lists his reasons for wanting to avoid the "interview" with Burr, emphatically stating: "I shall hazard much, and can possibly gain nothing." Hamilton's intention not to aim at Burr is clearly stated by him here: "I have resolved, if our interview is conducted in the usual manner, and it pleases God to give me the opportunity, to reserve and throw away my first fire, and I have thoughts even of reserving my second fire – and thus giving double opportunity to Col. Burr to pause and reflect."

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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