Upon my return from Weathersfield the evening of the 26th I was favored with your two Letters of the 17th and 22nd Instant.1

General St Clair had previously given some directions respecting the military Stores which were wanted at the Northward. I have since referred the application to General Knox, who has made such farther arrangements for a supply,2 as our present circumstances would permit.3

In consequence of the determination to abandon Fort Schuyler, I have also thought it adviseable to send an Engineer to have the superintendance & direction of the Fortifications which are to be erected, General Du Portail has been requested to order one accordingly.4

The Six Companies of Colo. Van Schaicks Regiment, now at West Point, are put under marching Orders, that if occasion should require they might be transported to Albany immediately.5 But I am very unwilling to suffer any Troops to be removed from this quarter, unless there is a real necessity for it—And indeed it would be useless to send them, unless there is also a probability of their being supplied with Provisions.

Altho I am apprehensive the Enemy will attempt to make incursions on the frontier in the course of the Campaign; the accounts as yet have been so vague and contradictory, that I know not what to believe respecting the present strength, disposition, & designs, of the British and Savages in Canada.6 As soon, and as frequently as you can obtain any intelligence that may be relied upon, I wish you to advise me of it—And also of every thing of moment, which appertains to the Troops under your Command—particularly of the state of your Supplies.7 I am Dear Sir Your Most Obedt Hble Servt