if the enemy hath not already some Informations of our Design, Ihey will soon be fully apprized of it & consequently prepare for their Defence as coinpleatly as may be in their Power. It appears therefore to me that 6 Eighteen pounders will be too few to support our attack with that vigor as may facilitate our success. Should we be so happy as to take Possession of their Fort, they may render their own Cannon unserviceable, or we may find more than they leave us necessary to defend our conquest and cover our Troops.

Four Feild peices I think too few for the number of Troops destined for this Service, and upon mature reflection it will I beleive appear so without my entering into the particular reasons.

I dont find there is any Establishment for a Quarter Mas'. Gen', such an officer appears to me quite necessary, and that great judgment should be used in the choice of him and that he should be dispatched to me as soon as possible to confer upon our future Proceedings.

An Engineer is of equal if not greater necessity, who should without loss of time take a view of the Artillery &<^. & make his report to me.

I hope Sir you will without Delay take the necessary measures upon these Articles.

I am u.

Albany 29 May most respectfully

1755 Sir your Honours

most obedt & most To the Hon^ie hum Serv'

James DeLancey Esq' &c. &«. W". Johnson.

I dont write Govern'^. Shirley on those Heads, as there is at present no direct opertunity.