stensible
view of opposing the Shawnese, is a strong additional motive
in my mind in support of this measure; for I have no doubt
that, the instant their service in the field terminates, a
large portion of the regulars will be detached to strengthen
the garrison of Detroit. I have prepared Colonel Proctor for
such an event, and after weighing the inconvenience to which
the service would be exposed if the district were placed under
a militia colonel, (an event obvious, unless superseded by a
regular officer of equal rank) I have directed Lieut.-Colonel
St. George to be in readiness to repair to Amherstburg and
assume the command; and I hope his situation of inspector of
militia will not be considered a bar to the arrangement. The
state of the roads will probably stop this projected movement
until the end of this month or beginning of the next; nor do I
intend that the troops should leave their present quarters,
unless urged by some fresh circumstances. I therefore look to
receive your excellency's commands previous to their
departure.

From Amherstburg to Fort Erie, my chief dependance must rest
on a naval force for the protection of that extensive coast;
but, considering the state to which it is reduced,
extraordinary exertions and great expense will be required
before it can be rendered efficient. At present, it consists
only of a ship and a small schooner--the latter of a bad
construction, old, and in want of many repairs; yet she is the
only king's vessel able to navigate Lake Huron, whilst the
Americans have a sloop, and a fine brig capable of carrying
twelve guns, both in perfect readiness for any service. If,
consequently, the garrison of St. Joseph's is to be
maintained, and an attack on Michilimakinack undertaken, it
will be expedient to hire, or purchase from the merchants, as
many vessels as may be necessary for the purpose. The
Americans can resort to the same means, and the construction
and number of their vessels for trade will give them great
advantage: besides, their small craft, or boats, in which
troops could be easily transported, exceed ours considerably;
indeed, we have very few of that description. I therefore
leave it to your excellency's superior judgment to determine
whether a sufficient number of gun-boats for both lakes, so
construct