ave not failed to give it that consideration which the
importance of the several points, to which it alludes,
entitles it.

In addition to the president's message being full of
gunpowder, the report made to congress by its committee on the
state of the foreign affairs of the United States, conveys
sentiments of such decided hostility towards England, that I
feel justified in recommending such precaution as may place
you in a state of preparation for that event; and with this
view you must endeavour to trace an outline of co-operation,
compensating for our deficiency in strength. I agree with you
as to the advantages which may result from giving, rather than
receiving, the first blow; but it is not my opinion war will
commence by a declaration of it. That act would militate
against the policy of both countries; therefore, we must
expect repeated petty aggressions from our neighbours, before
we are permitted to retaliate by open hostilities. It is very
satisfactory to observe the professions of the inhabitants of
Upper Canada in defence of their property and in support of
their government.

I will look into the correspondence you refer to, which took
place between Sir James Craig and Lieut.-Governor Gore, in
1807, 1808 and 1809, respecting the temper and disposition of
your militia, and the policy to be observed in your
intercourse with the Indians.

Your views, in regard to the line of conduct to be observed
towards the militia forces, notwithstanding some existing
circumstances unfavorable in their composition, are in my
estimation wise, and on such conceptions I have hitherto
acted.

There are too many considerations to allow me to hesitate in
saying we must employ the Indians, if they can be brought to
act with us. The utmost caution should be used in our language
to them, and all direct explanation should be delayed, if
possible, until hostilities are more certain; though whenever
the subject is adverted to, I think it would be advisable
always to intimate that, as a matter of course, we shall, in
the event of war, expect the aid of our brothers. Although I
am sensible this requires delicacy, still it should be done so
as not to be misunderstood.

I shall call the attention of the commissariat to the supply
of provisions that may be required in th