I have been favoured with your Letter of the 19th of Febry—announcing the failure of your Attempt against Oswego.

Unfortunate as the Circumstance is, I am happy in the persuasion that no Imputation or reflection can justly reach your Character; and that you are enabled to derive [much] Consolation from the animated Zeal, fortitude & Activity of the Officers & Soldiers who accompanied you—The failure, it seems, must be attributed to some of those unaccountable Events, which are not within the controul of human Means; and which, tho they often occur in military life, yet require, not only the fortitude of the Soldier, but the calm reflection of the Philosopher, to bear.

I cannot omit expressing to you the high Sense I entertain of your persevering Exertions & Zeal on this Expedition; and beg you to accept my warm Thanks on the Occasion—And that you will be pleased to communicate my Gratitude to the Officers & men who acted under your Command, for the Share they had in that Service. With much Esteem & Regard I am Sir Your most Obedient Se[rvt]