University of Virginia Library

TO HENRY DEARBORN.[56]

Dear Sir,—The last of your favors which I have
to acknowledge is that of the 3d Ult: from Boston.
I am glad to find that you are again at Albany; where
your presence will aid much in doing all that can be
done for the reputation of the campaign. The lapse

of time and the unproductiveness of the laws contemplating
a regular force, and volunteers for an entire
year & under federal commissions, compel us to moderate
some of our expectations. It was much to
have been desired that simultaneous invasions of
Canada at several points, particularly in relation to
Malden and Montreal, might have secured the great
object of bringing all Upper Canada, and the channels
communicating with the Indians, under our
command; with ulterior prospects towards Quebec
flattering to our arms. This systematic operation
having been frustrated, it only remains to pursue
the course that will diminish the disappointment as
much as possible. Hull,[57] as you will have learnt, is
preparing a force for the attack of Malden; and that
he may descend towards Niagara, with greater effect
and be the more secure agst Indian dangers, a reinforcement
of 1,500 men is ordered which will be
promptly supplied by the overflowing zeal of the
detached militia of Ohio & Kentucky. We hope
that your arrangements with Govr. Tomkins will have
provided an effective co-operation for subduing the
hostile force opposite ours at Niagara; and preparing
the way for taking possession of the Country at the
other extremity of Lake Ontario. In these events
we shall have in our hand not only all the most valuable
parts of the Upper province, but the important
command of the Lakes. It appears that Hull was
making an effort to overpower the British force on
Lake Erie, his success in which will be critically useful
in several respects.

In addition to these measures, it is essential, notwithstanding
the advance of the season, and the
difficulties thrown in our way, that the expedition
agst. Montreal should be forwarded by all the means
in your power. The number of regulars that can
be procured for it cannot even yet be ascertained;
but it is sufficiently ascertained that an extensive
auxiliary force will be wanted; and it is nearly as
certain that this will not be furnished by the Volunteer
Act of Feby unless a sudden ardor overcoming
the objections to it, should be inspired by the vicinity
of the object and the previous conquests. The
last resource therefore on which we are to depend,
is that portion of the detached & other Militia which
may be within reach, will comply with the call, and
voluntarily unite with their officers in rejecting geographical
limits to their patriotism. To this resource
I hope you will turn your full attention, with a view
to the immediate steps proper to be taken to enable
it to supply the deficit of regulars & volunteers; with
respect to the latter of which as far as they are within
a practicable distance, the number known here to
be in readiness is very inconsiderable. From the
Vermont & New Hampshire Militia favorable expectations
are indulged, the State authorities being well
disposed to promote the service. As to Massst. &
Connecticut, even, notwithstanding the obstructions
created by the Govrs it is not yet decided that the
spirit of some of the detached & other corps may

not give effect to your requisitions. Should an adequate
force be attainable from the whole or part of
the sources referred to, you will be the best judge
how far a demonstration towards Quebec will be
proper in aid of the measures agst. Montreal, which
if we can take by means of any sort we shall find the
means of holding. Shd. it be found impracticable
to take it this campaign, will it be possible to occupy
any other post that will cut off the intercourse with
the Indians thro' the Ottowas river?

You will have noticed the arrival of a Dispatch
vessel from the B. Govt.. Nothing is disclosed from
that quarter that ought in the slightest degree to
slacken our military exertions.

The Secy. of State is on a visit to his farm where
he will leave his family. On his return, which will
take place in a few days, I propose a like respite. I
find myself much worn down, and in need of an antidote
to the accumulating bile of which I am sensible;
and which I have never escaped in August on tide
water.