Washington's list consisted entirely of Federalists.[223] Adams relented and agreed to submit to the Senate the names of Hamilton, Pinckney, and Knox, in that order, although final decisions of rank would be reserved to Adams.[222] Knox refused to serve under these conditions. Adams firmly intended to give to Hamilton the lowest possible rank, while Washington and many other Federalists insisted that the order in which the names had been submitted to the Senate must determine seniority. On September 21, Adams received a letter from McHenry relaying a statement from Washington threatening to resign if Hamilton were not made second-in-command.[224] Adams knew of the backlash that he would receive from Federalists should he continue his course, and he capitulated, despite bitter resentment.[225] The illness of Abigail, whom Adams feared was near death, exacerbated his suffering.[224]

Alexander Hamilton's desire for high military rank and his push for war with France put him into conflict with Adams.
It quickly became apparent that due to Washington's advanced age, Hamilton was the army's de facto commander. He exerted effective control over the War Department, taking over supplies for the army.