Excellent Sir, I am now in the Parish of St Tuors four Leagues from Sorel to the South, have 250 Canadians under Arms. As I march they gather fast. These are the Object of taking the Vessels in Sorel, and Genl Carleton. These objects I pass by to assist the Army beseiging St Johns. If the Place be taken the Country is ours. If we miscarry in this, all other acthievements will profit but little. I am fearful our Army May be sickly & that the Siege may be hard, therefore chuse to assist in conquering St Johns, which of Consequence conquers the whole. You may rely on it I shall join you in about three Days with five Hundred or more Canadian Volunteers. I could raise one or two Thousand in a Week's Time, but will first visit the Army with a less Number, & if necessary will go again recruiting. Those that used to be Enemies to our Cause, come Cap in Hand to me, and I swear by the Lord I can raise three Times the Number of our Army in Canada provided you continue the Siege. AU depends on that, it is with the Advise of the Officers with me that I speedily repair to the Army. God grant you Wisdom Fortitude & every Accomplishment of a victorious General. The Eyes of all America, nay of all Europe are or will be on the Economy of this Army ー the Consequences attending it. I am [&c.]
Sept 20th 1775.
P.S. I have purchased 4 Hogsheads of Rum & sent a Sergeant with a small Party to deliver it at Head Quarters. and Mr Levingston & others under him will provide what fresh Beef you need. As to Bread & Flour, I am forwarding what I can. You may rely on my utmost Attention to this Object, as well as raising Auxilleries. I [k]now the Ground is swampy & bad raising Batteries, but pray let no Object of obstruction be insurmountable. The Glory of a Victory which will be attended with such important Consequences will crown all our Fatigues, Wishes, and Labours. To fail of Victory will be our eternal Disgrace, but to obtain it will elevate us on the Wings of Fame.
Yours &c Ethan Allen.
[Endorsed] Read before Congress Octr 9th 1775
