The Capitulation of Hull is come to hand. I hope you will condemn every Sentence. It is impossible for me to express the Indignation of the Country here. Not a few reflections are cast on you for appointing such an infamous Rascal to Command. I have vindicated your Conduct, as far as I could, by asserting that your appointments are made by recommendations, that no Doubt this Plan was laid by Treators in Congress, not Suspected by you. This was the best apology I could make. The Country are not cast down; but much agitated. I now conjure you by all that is Sacred to send immediately gen. Armstrong or some man of Talents to take Command, and appoint some good man for governor; but for god’s sake trust no more to yankeys. Good men they have, but office hunters are not in that Class. As I now feel, if you appoint a general to command in the north west, you may appoint me Chaplain in my 77th. year. I wish to die in the Service of my Country. If you wish any further information respecting my Character, I refer you to my old Friend Mr galatin, who has been well acquainted with me many years.

A word now to what must be done to retreive our honour. Give orders immediately to cross the St. Lawrence with 800⟨d?⟩ men, with artiliry, & two mortars, and proceed & take the fort opposite to niagara. This can be done, & nothing else can save your honour, & if you do not do it, you need not expect to be reelected President. This I wish to take place, and it depends on your Conduct in this awful Crisis.

I cannot Set out for my home till next week; and you will see under the Signature of the old Soldiers. May the god of heaven direct you, is the sincere Prayer of your humble Servt