I am directed to inform you what Provision can be made for Forage for your Regt the ensuing Winter, in some of the Western Towns in this State; as the requisition is new and unexpected, I beg leave to inform you that I have little or nothing in my Power for its Execution, what in me lies is at your service, I have a little Hay at New Town in the Hands of Jabez Botsford Esqr. who will deliver the same to you & perhaps assist you as well as any body else for further supplies—I have reasons why it will not be expedient for me to attempt making a Bargain at present—I hope in a few days it may consistantly be done in the mean time if you Should be ordered to the Necessity of using force in a few instances it will pave the way for buying.

Inclos’d is an open letter to Mr Botsford which you will be kind enough to seal & deliver-- provided you think proper with such Slender Provision to throw yourself into those Quarters—I will meet you there if you desire it & appoint the time, & concert the best possible ways & means—I am Sir your most Obedent & humble Servant.

You will please to deliver to Col. Sheldon on Order all the Hay and other Forage you have on hand and assist him in procuring the Forage he may want for his Horses and other things and accomodations he and his Officers and Men are entitled to receive, which I cannot enumerate until I am favoured with his estimates and Orders from the Q.M. General—I am Sir Your most humble Servt