New Windsor, April 27, 1781.
Dear Sir:
Your letter of this date has not a little embarrassed me. You must
remember the ferment in the Pennsylvania line last campaign, occasioned
by the appointment of Major M’Pherson; and you know the uneasiness
which at this moment exists among the eastern officers, on account of
the commands conferred upon Colonel Gimat and Major Galvan, although it
was the result of absolute necessity.
Should circumstances admit of the formation of another advanced corps,
of which I see very little prospect, from present appearances, it can
be but small, and must be composed almost entirely of eastern troops:
and to add to the discontents of the officers of those lines, by the
further appointment of an officer of your rank to the command of
it, or in it, would, I am certain, involve me in a difficulty of a
very disagreeable and delicate nature; and might, perhaps, lead to
consequences more serious than it is easy to imagine. While I adhere
firmly to the right of making such appointments as you request, I am
at the same time obliged to reflect, that it will not do to push that
right too far; more especially in a service like ours, and at a time so
critical as the present.
I am convinced that no officer can, with justice, dispute your merit
and abilities. The opposition heretofore made, has not been for the
want of those qualifications in the gentlemen who are, and have been,
the objects of discontent. The officers of the line contend, without
having reference to particular persons, that it is a hardship and
reflection upon them, to introduce brevet officers into commands
(of some permanency), in which there are more opportunities of
distinguishing themselves than in the line of the army at large, and
with the men they have had the trouble to discipline and to prepare for
the field.
My principal concern arises from an apprehension, that you will
impute my refusal of your request to other motives than those I have
expressed; but I beg you to be assured, I am only influenced by the
reasons which I have mentioned.
I am, dear Sir,
Your obedient, humble servant,
G. Washington.
Lieutenant-Colonel Hamilton.