Sir,

Your Letter of the 8th Inst was recd yesterday, and laid before the Congress. I am directed to express their Approbation of your Conduct, as stated in your Letter. Your taking Possession of the Isle au Noix, and the proposed Measures, for preventing the Enemies Vessels from entering the Lake, appear to them highly expedient and necessary.

The Congress have such a Sense of the Importance of that Post, as to wish it may not be abandoned without the most mature Consideration, or the most pressing Necessity.

They view the Expedition entrusted to your Care as of the greatest Consequence to the General Cause and as they clearly foresee, that its Influence whether successful, or otherwise, will be great and extensive. They are desirous that Nothing necessary to give it a fortunate Issue, may be omitted.

They have ordered all the Forces raised in New York, immediately to join you; and those under Genl [David] Wooster to march immediately to Albany, from whence if you should think such Reinforcement necessary, you will be pleased to order them.

Should you stand in Need of farther Reinforcement, the Congress desire you will apply to Genl Washington.

The Congress repose the highest Confidence in the Abilities, the Zeal, and the Alacrity of the Officers, and Forces employed on this Expedition. They are determined to spare neither Men, nor Money; and should the Canadians remain neuter, flatter themselves, that the Enterprize will be crowned with Success, notwithstanding the great and various Difficulties, to which it has been, and still is exposed.

It is with great Concern that the Congress hear of your Indisposition. They desire me to assure you of their warmest Wishes for your Recovery; and to request, that in discharging the Duties of your Station, you will not omit the Attention due to the Re-establishment of your Health. By Order of the Congress ー I am &c