Sunday, January 14th, 1798

My Dearest, Theodosia,

                                                As we step into another new year, I wonder if the threats on my life is going to continue. That is two threats you have now made with a hint of a third. One may start to think that you mean it, particularly if our letters were to somehow become intercepted. Of course, I know better. After all, anyone who takes the time and the risk to a write a letter to their dying lover is hardly someone who would also pose a threat. Unless they hold something the posses, by all means it is completely fine.

All I wish to know, Theo, are the kind of excuses you are using towards your father in order to escape his glare. Now that I am studying in Albany, I am around Father a great deal and, therefore, need ways to evade him. I do not know often I can use the story of needing a break before it becomes a nuisance. That and I do not know how many times I can say it before he catches on to me. Father knows I am not one who takes breaks often, much like himself.

Perhaps you could spare one or two of these excuses? It does not have to be all of them, you may protect your trade secrets if you wish to do so. Though if they are successful in the way you say they are, then surely you would want to help those who cannot come up with clever plots, such as myself. Besides, if we wish to see each other again, I shall need all the help I can get to escape my father's watchful eye.

Just one or two excuses, please?

Love Always,

Philip Hamilton

~~~

My Dearest, Philip,

                                       Who is to say that my threat on your life is simply a threat? You have almost died on me before and if you dare make that mistake for a second time I shall be the one to end you. It is as simple as that, Philip. Of course, I am not violent, I never have been. But I never said I shall be the one to hurt you. If anyone were to see these letters, they shall simply think them to be nothing but a joke rather than a direct threat. You can trust me on that one.

Share my trade secrets with you? I shall do no such thing. They are mine and mine alone and I shall not give them to anyone, not even you. It is rather easy to come with excuses that work to your favor, Philip. Why, I am prone to using the sickness lie, telling Father I have a headache and wish to go for a walk. He is so scared that what affects me is similar to my mother that he allows me to go. After your recent illness, does it not seem like that would be the best excuse for you to use? You have already been on the brink of death once before, I doubt they would let it get that far again.

There, I have just given you one of my ways to escape your father and visit me without either of our families knowing. It is, perhaps, my best, but use it wisely. If you use too often and too frequently, they will become suspicious, particularly if you never show any signs of illness. I propose you watch how you use the excuse, or it may become too much.

Love Always,

Theodosia Burr.

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Notes;

There appears to be a trend with the most recent series of letters whereby they focus more on their relationship rather than any sort of historical context. We can see that both Burr and Hamilton stuck to their word and refused to discuss the goings on in the political world or that of their fathers.