5. Letter by Alexander Hamilton to Aaron Burr

ABOUT

New York, June 22d, 1804

Sir:

Your first letter, in a style too peremtory, made a demand, in my opinion, unprecendented and unwarrantable. My answer, pointing out the embarrasment, gave you an opportunity to take a less exceptionable course. You have not chosen to do it, but by your last letter, received this day, containing expressions indecorous and improper, you have incressed the difficulties to explaination, intrinsically incident to the nature of your application.

If you a “definite reply” you mean the direct avowal of disavowal require in your first letter, I have no other answer to give that that which has already been given. If you mean anything different admitting of greater latitude, it is requisite you should explain.

I have the honor to be, Sir

Your obedt. Servt.

A. Hamilton.