I am commanded by His Excellency to forward the enclosed Letters from Genl Heath and Major Reese, and to inform you, that he is utterly averse to a military impress, except on great occasions, and when no other expedients can be devised to answer the end proposed. Because he apprehends it may tends to irritate the minds and alienate the affections of the well disposed people from the Army, unless there is the greatest apparent necessity for the measure—And because a frequent repetition of Military coercion, will prevent, in some degree, its efficacy in cases where no other choice or alternative is left—The General hopes, on the present occasion, by a great effort of your Department, the Provisions in question, may be transported the few Miles, from their present deposits to the Army, without having recourse to coercive Measures. He suggests also, whether it will not be practicable, to have some of the Teams hired for the Campaign, brought in, to perform such kind of services in the neighbourhood of the Army, as the grass will soon begin to afford a partial subsistance for them.

His Excellency presents his Compliments to you, and requests the favor of your Company at dinner to day. I have the honor to be Dear Sir Your Most Obed. Servt