Hamilton suggested using the Army's claims to prevail upon the states for the proposed national funding system.Kohn, p. 196. The Morrises and Hamilton contacted General Henry Knox to suggest he and the officers defy civil authority, at least by not disbanding if the army were not satisfied. Hamilton wrote Washington to suggest that Hamilton covertly "take direction" of the officers' efforts to secure redress, to secure continental funding but keep the army within the limits of moderation.Chernow, pp. 177–80.Hamilton's letter of February 13, 1783; Syrett, pp. III:253–55. Washington wrote Hamilton back, declining to introduce the army.Washington to Hamilton, March 4 and 12, 1783; Kohn; Martin and Lender, pp. 189–90. After the crisis had ended, Washington warned of the dangers of using the army as leverage to gain support for the national funding plan.
