Marked confidential. Writes on behalf of the President and himself to encourage Burr to use his influence to make someone (name is illegible) accept a higher post in the army.

Letter appointing Sargent to the office of Adjutant and Inspector General of the United States Army. Writes to appoint him to the office of Adjutant and Inspector General. Has worked to get this appointment for Sargent and hopes he will derive honor from it. Feels that it is his duty as a friend to let Sargent know that this was not a popular appointment. Relates that many have complained excessively of your haughtiness and stern manner in executing the office the last year. Adds that he knows there must have been reason for this behavior, but asks him, with the affection of a brother [.] that in the future, while obedience to every order shall be executed, that the manner of doing it, be tempered with that politeness and softness of manners, which no gentleman on the continent can better exhibit than yourself. Believes that if he fixes this problem, he will do brilliantly. Asks him to provide Knox with news of his experiences at his post.

This concise and elegant contribution to the Very Short Introduction series reintroduces the history that shaped the founding fathers, the history that they made, and what history has made of them. The book provides a context within which to explore the world of Washington, Franklin, Jefferson, Adams, and Hamilton, as well as their complex and still-controversial achievements and legacies.