As a military leader, Clark had genius, and soldiering was his passion.

In nature, he was open, frank, and bold to make foes if he scorned a man's way as ignoble or dishonest.

Wilkinson suavely set about scheming for Clark's ruin.

His communication or memorial to the Virginia Assembly--signed by himself and a number of his friends--villifying Clark, ended Clark's chances for the commission in the Continental Army which he craved.

It was Wilkinson who made public an incriminating letter which had Clark's signature attached and which Clark said he had never seen.