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

SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 683

mortal hand can resist. We are engaged in a Righteous and a Glorious cause and as far as Courage ought to carry Men I hope it will carry us.

I hope the Governments in General and yours in particular will consider the naked state of their people who in the approaching season will .stand in need of some warm Cloaths and Bedding, surely they deserve this consideration and relief, and I think it would be an affront to the Humanity and generousity of your Colony if they needed any arguments to stimulate them on this occasion.

I propose to march to morrow or next day with the first Division of about Fifteen Hundred Men and some Indians, and a few Field Pieces for Lake S* Sacrament and to order the remainder of the Troops to follow as soon as Possible with the heavy Artillery and Baggage. I am