My dear General

I have been near a Fortnight before Quebec ー at the Head of upwards of 800 Men, a Force you'll say not very adequate to the Business in Hand ー but we must make the best of it ー It is all I could get ー I have been so used to struggle with Difficulties that I expect them of Course.

I hope the Troops will be sent down as soon as possible, for should we fail in our first Attempt, a second or a third may do the Business before Relief can arrive to the Garrison. ー Possession of the Town and that speedily I hold of the highest Consequence ー The Enemy are expending the Ammunition most liberally and I fear the Canadians will not relish a Union with the Colonies, till they see the whole Country in our Hands and defended by such a Force as may relieve them from the Apprehensions of again falling under the Ministerial Lash ー Were it not for these Reasons I should have been inclined to a Blockade till towards the first of April ー by which Time the Garrison wou'd be probably so much distressed for provisions and Wood.

With anxious Wishes for the Recovery of your Health and best Respects to your Family if you be returned Home I am my dear Sr [&c.]