Washington, George, 1732-1799 to James McHenry
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00204 Author/Creator: Washington, George, 1732-1799 Place Written: Mount Vernon, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: May 5, 1799 Pagination: 3 p. : address : docket ; 24.4 x 20 cm. Order a Copy
Marked private. In response to McHenry's private letter of April 29, which was a response to Washington's letter of April 23. Washington, commander of the Provisional Army created in 1798 in response to French aggression, wrote to McHenry, Secretary of War in the Adams Administration, on the issue of rank and pay in the army. Officers who lived farther away from the capital received their commissions later than those who lived closer. Since rank was calculated by time of acceptance, those living farther away felt slighted. He agrees with the solution that McHenry suggested to the President and hopes it is approved. Mentions Charles Fenton Mercer, who pressed Washington for a commission and then twice declined the offer when he realized it would hurt him politically in Virginia. Says "I am glad he has refused it." Offers suggestions to fill the vacancy.
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