Rochester

Sunday

Oct^r 7^th 1866

Dear Sir

Do me the favor to accept the enclosed Photograph and autograph of my Father Alexander Hamilton as a mark of my respect and regard for you

I will only add that your Character and Conduct are the best guarrantee of the future of your race and that I indulge a confident expectation that our Government will perform its highest and most solemn engagement—not only to protect those whom it has made free but to provide for

for their Material mental and Moral condition; cost what it may that must be done or the Nation is dishonored

with great respect

Your friend & servant,

James A. Hamilton

Nevis

Dobbs Ferry PO