Letter Signed

Relative Rank of Major Generals

Washington assures Hamilton that he has made his sentiments clear regarding the relative rank of the three major generals of the Provisional Army. Since he is Commander in Chief, any controversy related to this topic should be resolved by him.

1798

10

21

Mount Vernon

Cited in Hamilton to Washington, 10/29/1798.

Cited document that was neither sent to nor from the War Office

Major General Alexander Hamilton

George Washington

President of the United States [John Adams]

General [Charles Cotesworth] Pinckney

General [Henry] Knox

Commander in Chief

Secretary of War [McHenry]

James McHenry

Mount Vernon

Alexandria

Virginia

amicable adjustment

acquiescence

controversies

officer rank

1798102190001

General Washington
Ot 21. 1798
Mount Vernon

Majr. Gene. Hamilton
New York
[upper lefthand corner] p 187
197
[upper righthand corner] 200
Mount Vernon 21 Oct. 1798.

(84)
My dear Sir,
The last mail to Alexandria brought me a letter from the President of the United States, in which I am informed that he had signed, and given the Commissions to yourself, General Pinckney & Knox, the same date; in hoped that an amicable adjustment or acquiescence might take place among you.__ But, if these hopes should be disappointed, and controversies should arise, they will of course be submitted to me, as Commander in Chief, and if after all, anyone should be so obstinate as to appeal to him from the judgement of the Commander in Chief, he was determined to confirm that judgement.__
General Knox is fully acquainted with my sentiments on this subject;--and I hope no fresh difficulties will arise with General Pickney.__ Let me entreat you therefore to give, without delay, your full aid to the Secry of War.__ At present I will only add that I am always, & affectly yours
Go. Washington
Majr.GeneHamilton