Digital History>eXplorations>The Duel: Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr>The Duel>Accounts of the Duel

Hamilton to his wife, Eliza

[July 10, 1804]

The Scruples [of a Christian have deter]mined me to expose my own [life to any] extent rather than subject my[self to the] guilt of taking the life of [another]. This must increase my hazards & redoubles my pangs for you. But you had rather I should die innocent than live guilty. Heaven can [preserve] me [and I humbling] hope will, but in the contrary event, I charge you to remember that you are a Christian. God’s will be done! The will of a merciful God must be good.
Once more Adieu my Darling darling Wife