Digital History>eXplorations>The
Duel: Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr>Run
Up to the Duel>Primary Sources
Hamilton
to his wife, Eliza
[July
4, 1804]
This
letter, my dear Eliza, will not be delivered to you, unless I
shall first have terminated my earthly career; to begin, as I
humbly hope, from redeeming grace and divine mercy, a happy immortality.
If
it had been possible for me to have avoided the interview, my
love for you and my precious children would have been alone a
decisive motive. But it was not possible, without sacrifices which
would have rendered me unworthy of your esteem. I need not tell
you of the pangs I feel, from the idea of quitting you and exposing
you to the anguish which I know you would feel. Nor could I dwell
on the topic lest it should unman me.
The
consolations of Religion, my beloved, can alone support you; and
these you have a right to enjoy. Fly to the bosom of your God
and be comforted. With my last idea, I shall cherish the sweet
hope of meeting you in a better world.
Adieu best of wives and best of Women.
Embrace
all my daring Children for me.
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