1From Alexander Hamilton to William Loughton Smith, 11 March 1800 (Hamilton Papers)
You will probably have heard before this reaches you that I had appointed Captain Izard one of my aids. I part with him to you with all the reluctance that a strong impression of his merit can inspire. Yet I do not resist his going because our military prospects in general, and mine in particular are very uncertain. Though we have had no communication since your departure you may be assured...