Instead of having the Militia of this County (who I am informed are now assembled) march immediately to join the Marquis de la Fayette; I could wish they Might be employed in repairing the Roads from George Town to the Ford of Occoquan—To do this without a moments loss of time, is of such essential importance that I cannot but repeat in the most earnest manner my desire to have it done—The Waggons of the French & American Armies—the Cavalry—& the Cattle will proceed by that rout & may be expected in a few days; & will not only be retarded but more than probably essentially injured if this necessary business is neglected or delayed. I depend therefore absolutely upon your zeal & activity for the execution of it. For dispatch let the Militia be divided into several parties, & impress the officers commanding each with the magnitude of the object & the necessity of compleat repair—there will be no Troops with the Baggage Waggons &ca of the Armies before mentioned—& the Maryland Corps now on their March I wish to join the Troops commanded by the Marquis de la Fayette as soon as possible. With much esteem & regard I am Dr Sir Yr most obt Servt