country; but it appears likewise
evident to me that the greater part are either indifferent to
what is passing, or so completely American as to rejoice in
the prospect of a change of government. Many who now consider
our means inadequate, would readily take an active part were
the regular troops increased. These cool calculators are
numerous in all societies.

The alacrity and good temper with which the militia, in the
first instance, marched to the frontiers, have tended to
infuse in the mind of the enemy a very different sentiment of
the disposition of the inhabitants, who, he was led to believe
would, upon the first summons, declare themselves an American
state. The display for several days of a large force was made,
I have every reason to believe, in that expectation.

Nearly the whole of the arms at my disposal have been issued.
They are barely sufficient to arm the militia immediately
required to guard the frontier. Were I furnished with the
means of distributing arms among the people, in whom
confidence can be placed, they would not only overawe the
disaffected, but prove of essential use in the event of
invasion. The militia assembled in a wretched state in regard
to clothing; many were without shoes, an article which can
scarcely be provided in the country.

After the cannon, which have arrived this morning, are
mounted, I shall consider my front perfectly secure. I do not
imagine the enemy will hazard a water excursion with a view to
turn my flanks. He probably will wait until winter, when the
ice will enable him to cross with the utmost facility to any
part between Fort Erie and as far as Long Point. My situation
will then depend upon the force the enemy may bring to invade
the province. Should the troops have to move, the want of
tents will be severely felt.

A person who left Sandwich yesterday week, pretends that the
enemy was then in the act of cannonading the place. I have not
heard from Lieut.-Colonel St. George since my last letter to
your excellency.

An officer is so absolutely necessary to command in the
eastern district, that I have consented to Major-General Shaw
proceeding thither in that capacity. I have full confidence in
his judgment, and his conduct in the field is undoubted. He of
course will assume the command in virtue of hi