The American Annual Register, or, Historical Memoirs of the United States, for the Year 1796.

CALLENDER, James Thomson.

$4,000.00

Item Number: 125974

Philadelphia: Printed and Sold by Bioren & Madan, January 19, 1797.

First edition, first issue in book form of Callender’s searing exposé. Octavo, bound in three quarter contemporary calf over marbled boards, morocco spine label lettered in gilt. In very good condition. Housed in a custom cloth chemise and half morocco slipcase. Ownership inscriptions. The first printing of this work is exceedingly scarce as it was quickly exhausted and reissued in the same year as The History of the United States For 1796.

In his pamphlet, A History of the United States for the Year 1796, published in installments in the late spring and early summer of 1797, James T. Callender exposed the sexual relationship between Hamilton and Maria Reynolds, presenting evidence that the affair was a distraction from Hamilton's greater offense: partnering with Reynolds' husband in corrupt financial dealings. On August 25, 1797, Hamilton published his own pamphlet in response, later known as, The Reynolds Pamphlet, denying being a party to any improper financial matter, although he confessed to the adultery and proved that he had been victim of blackmail by James Reynolds over his adultery with Reynolds' wife rather than consorting with him in speculation. According to Callender, that was just a smokescreen. The financial charges were never proven, and after the scandal somewhat subsided, in 1798 President Adams appointed Hamilton for a new public office, Major General of the Continental Army.