Smith's present force is not as great as could be wi.-JK-d, and requires to be augmented to put hiin in a condition to make an efrectu:ii opposition. I would tlicreforc have you to detach immediately as la:go a part vi your f(?rce as you pijssibly can in aid of the garrison. I cannot well determine what proportion. This must be regulated by circumstances and appearances, but my present idea is that the principal part sliould go to his assistance. To enabli.- you the better to spare a respectable reinforcement, I have directed General Isewcomb to send his brigade of militia to Red Bank or as many of them as hecan prevail upon to go. Colonel Angell will also march early to-morrow mornin'.' to join you with his regiment. The garrisons and Steel's may be informed of these succours ; by way of keeping up their spirits. I would not have }-ou trust to the houses in the neighbourhood of your post, as these in case of an investiture will fail you ; which makes it prudent to have a sufficient number of huts before hand firepared witliin the fort.

I hoi)e, and doubt not, you will lieep fully in mind the prodigious importance of not suffering the enemy to get entire possession of the Delaware ; and will spare no pains nor activity to frustrate their efforts for that purpose. Be watchful ou every quarter and industrious in stopping every avenue by which you are assailable. Be cautious not to pay too much attention to any one part of your works, and neglect tiie others, but take every precaution to strengthen tlie whole ; for otherwise the greatest danger may be where you least expect it. I am, sir.