Quebec is enclosed by a considerable body of forces under Brigadier General Arnold: They hope to avoid storming, and thereby prevent effusion of blood on both sides. The Garrison consists of the seamen belonging to two frigates, and the merchantmen that winter at Quebec, two companies of wretched emigrants raised from the outskirts and suburbs, the dependants of Government, and a few citizens whose exposed effects obliged their remaining to preserve: In the whole we estimate from 12 to 1300 men capable to bear arms; a body not sufficient to do the daily duty of guards only. To this may be added the want of wood to that degree that by a deserter just escaped, without destroying the houses there remains not fuel for five days. These circumstances we flatter ourselves will engage General Carleton (out of humanity) to offer terms before the season becomes so advanced as to oblige the continental army to force their admittance.