I have recd your favr of the 20th—The disposition you have made of the troops at and near West point is agreeable to me.

The two small Regiments at present at King’s Ferry were purposely stationed there, because they could not be Brigaded with convenience—They are shortly to be reformed and incorporated, and had therefore best remain where they are untill that time.1

Genl Greene had proposed to remove every superfluous Store from those posts, so that, in case of necessity, they might be evacuated with little loss. He was of opinion, that the enemy would, if they came up seriously, run an armed Vessel or two above them, and render the removal of the Stores by Water impracticable. This seemed so probable a conjecture, that I desired him to strip them of all but very few stores. You will be pleased to follow that method.2

The Minister of France may soon be expected from the Eastward. Should he take you in his way, or should you hear certainly of his approach be pleased to give me notice of it by Express.3 I am with great Regard Dear Sir Your most obt Servt