That we have many natural Obstacles to expect -- that the French may of themselves out number us -- that they will take post and Fortify themselves in some advantageous Place on this side Crown Point, probably at Tionderoga that they will greatly out Number us in Indians, and that by the Cognawagas engaging in their favour, our Indians will in general be less willing to take part with us'ES they are very many of them related to the Cognawagas and have Mothers, Sisters, Brothers &<= among them, and that Some of our Indians will upon that ace* actually decline engaging -- I say thiit I incline to these Opinions and therefore do agree with the Council of War in thinking that all present circumstances collected, very strong and speedy Reinforcements are necessary to obtain the acquisition of Crown Point.

The Road is now making from this place to Lake S^ Sacrement where I propose to build JVIagazines and raise a defensible Fortification either as a safe retreat in case we should find the Enemy to strong for our Force and be obliged to quit our Ground, or upon well grounded intelligence find it the most prudent measure to halt there till we receive Reinforcements.

As I think the Troops under my Command both Officers and Men Seem to be animated with becommg resolution and Courage, I hope they will approve themselves in all respects worthy of the confidence which their country hath reposed in them and I shall endeavour to the utmost of my abilities to fulfil the Duties of that -'Station in which I am placed. If we should not be so happy as to gratify the expectations of all, I hope we shall not deserve the reproach of any. Unde^" the conduct of the greatest human abilities success is very precarious and determined by that Power which no