If there has been neglect in either department, the delinquents must be responsible to the public and these Gentlemen ought to be acquainted with what has been alledged I cannot but repeat my intreaties, that you will hasten your operation with all pofsible dispatch ; and that you will disencumber yourself of every article of baggage and ftores which is not necefsary to the expedition. Not only its fuccefs but its execution at all depends on this. 'Tis a kind of fervice in which both officers and men must expect to dispense with conveniences and endure hardfhips. . . . They must not and I trust will not expect to carry the fame appatus which is customary in other operations. I am persuaded that if you do not lighten yourfelf to the greatest pofsible degree, you will not only iminently hazard a defeat, but you will never be able to penetrate any distance into the Indian Country..., The greater part of your provisions will be consumed in preparation, and the remainder in the first ftages of a tedious and laborious march. General Clinton in a letter to the Governor of the 6th instant mentioned his arrival at the south end of Otfego Lake where he was waiting your orders Inclosed I transmit you extracts of two letters of the 7th and 27th instant from Major-General Schuyler with interesting intelligence. I am with great regard Dr. Sir Yr. Most Obet. fervant Go. Washington

LETTERS FROM GEORGE WASHINGTON. 1 53

This will be accompanied .by Commissions for the four New York Regiments and the 4th Pennsylvania .... in three packages Col. Broadhead has informed me that he h. s a prospect of undertaking an expedition against the Mingoes with the aid of fome of the friendly Indians ; I have encouraged him by all means to do it, if practicable ; fhould it take place, it will be an useful diversion in your favor as he will approach pretty near to your left flank