Sir

This is the 33d day that we have been in this disagreeable situation, but I flatter myself that our Continuance on this ground is but short. The season is advancing, which will either drive us Northward, or Southward, to habitations more comfortable. have the happiness to inform you that yesterday the Fort at Chamblee was surrendered to us without the loss of one man on our side 70 odd regulars was taken Prisoners & about 94 women & children, which transaction gives new life and vigour to our Troops; and adds Courage to the Canadians, whose spirits have drooped by the Misconduct of Cl [Ethan] Allen, in Attacking Montreal with so Small party that he and his men were allmost intirely cut off, which doubtless you have heard.

The Canadians I think I may venture to Assert are Quite full on our Side, and the Indians likewise; whose Friendship we have taken unwearied pains to obtain; but to return to this Hornets Nest at St Johns, which still continues obstinate, we in the first Place built a Bomb battery about 100 rods South of the Fort which appears to annoy them considerable, we then built a gun battery to the Southward of that, but does not have the desired effect. then we built a gun battery on the east side of the River off against the Fort, within 100 rods of them, in plain sight, at which battery we have kept a continual fire at their water Craft (which consist of large scows Gondolas & other Small Craft) till they are so disanabled That we have nothing to fear from them. likewise at their houses which by their appearance is rendered very uncomfortable to them. We are about building on the North side off them another battery. when the whole comes to be opened upon them, on all sides, I think the dogs must Surrender or find it very hot weather. we have more or less Cannonading or bombarding every day, but thro the blessing of God we have onely lost 4 men by their Shot & Shells. Our Army is in good health in General and in fine Spirits. nothing to Obstruct us from traveling thro Canady but this little foutre Place, which I doubt not but in a few days we shall be master off. and walk triumphant into Moreal w[h]ere Part of army will winter. to keep the Canadians in spirits wether we succeed or not, doubtless a part will Tarry in Canady this winter.

I am very hearty myself and my company that is remaining with me. my respects to my wife and family. & compliments to all Friends & Neighbors. I am Sir [&c.]